In this engaging livestream conversation, H.L. Burke (Heidi) and I explore the intricacies of writing superhero fiction, discussing the implications of superpowers, the role of government, and the moral dilemmas faced by characters.

We delve into the unique challenges of marketing superhero stories, the importance of character development, and the dynamics of building a dedicated audience.

The discussion also highlights the upcoming anthologies featuring new voices in the superhero genre, emphasizing community engagement and creativity.

Click here to support the Kickstarter for the DOSA anthologies II and III (and get really spiffy special edition copies!)Check out H.L. Burke on Substack.

Prefer to read? Click the transcript button on the Substack page - you can read straight through or use the transcript to skip around on the video.

Author Culture is a reader-supported podcast that I create to help scifi and fantasy authors just like you. Consider becoming a free or paid subscriber (paid subscribers get bonus current event episodes, live chat, and Q&A).

Just read books in your genre, and you’ll “get it.” Right?

Sometimes it’s not so easy - but I’m here with my secret sauce tips to make doing genre research a simple and (and even fun) process.

I cover methods for selecting books for research, analyzing genre elements such as tropes, character arcs, and world-building, and the crucial phrase I always ask myself when figuring out what makes a book genre really work.

Prefer to read? Click the transcript button on the Substack page - you can read straight through or use the transcript to skip around on the video.

Author Culture is a reader-supported podcast that I do to help scifi and fantasy authors just like you. Consider becoming a free or paid subscriber (paid subscribers get bonus current event episodes, live chat, and can request topics).

In this conversation, I explore the shifting landscape of world building in science fiction and fantasy, including a comparison of simpler world building in romantasy with the enduring appeal of complex world building in other subgenres. I also offer some marketing thoughts on the increasing reader divide between complex and simple world building. Plus, how author preferences can shift between one or the other.

Prefer to read? Click the transcript button on the Substack page - you can read straight through or use the transcript to skip around on the video.

Author Culture is a reader-supported podcast & publication - I do this to help you! Consider becoming a free or paid subscriber (paid subscribers get bonus episodes, live chat, and request topics).

In this conversation, I break down my 6 key factors when evaluating which book events I sign up for every year.Bonus: I also dig into how to do book events when managing limited energy levels (and a budget).This episode includes:-Why high foot traffic does not guarantee sales-Evaluating the theme and guests of the event for potential connections-What to consider when looking at event costs-Recovery time for long book events

Plus, why new authors might want to hold off on big ticket events.

Whether you’re a newbie or a veteran, this episode has some fresh ideas for you.

Prefer to read? Click the transcript button on the Substack page - you can read straight through or use the transcript to skip around on the video.Just FYI - I’m offering a special price deal for paid subscribers through the end of February. Paid subscribers get 1-2 additional episodes per month focused on current events or Q&A, plus the ability to request episodes and submit questions for Q&A.Click here to get 15% off a paid subscription - forever!

In this conversation, I discuss the recent changes in Amazon's Kindle ebook policies, addressing the concerns raised by readers and authors alike. I emphasize the importance of understanding the nature of digital ownership and licensing, the cultural implications of these changes, and offer practical advice for both readers and authors navigating this evolving landscape. The conversation aims to clarify misconceptions and equip listeners with the knowledge to make informed decisions about this new shift from Kindle. Source Materials:Original Video from CriminOlly

Article from The Verge

Article from Tech Radar

Can You Own An Ebook? - NYU Journal of Intellectual Property and Entertainment Law

Research Copyright Law for Yourself

Want More Current Events Posts? I’m offering a special price deal for paid subscribers through the end of February. Click here to get 15% off a paid subscription - forever!

In this conversation, Janeen Ippolito discusses the complexities of the writing journey, emphasizing the importance of recognizing when to push forward and when to take a step back. She shares her personal experiences at crossroads in her career, highlighting the significance of surrendering to new directions and seeking wise counsel. The discussion encourages authors to reflect on their goals, life seasons, and gut instincts when making decisions about their writing paths.

Takeaways

• Just dig in and keep going.
• Sometimes, it's necessary to pull back.
• Writing isn't always about pushing forward.
• Check in with your goals and instincts.
• Seek wise counsel from trusted sources.
• Your life season impacts your writing decisions.
• Surrendering can lead to new opportunities.
• Writing is not a straight path; embrace the journey.
• Recognize when to pivot or backtrack.
• Your existence as an author is valuable.

In this episode of the Author Culture Podcast, Janeen Ippolito discusses how to identify whether a genre is a fleeting trend or has the potential for long-term success. She emphasizes the importance of understanding market data, connecting genres to reader needs, and recognizing timeless elements in storytelling. The conversation explores successful genre mashups and the evolving landscape of publishing, particularly in the indie author space.

Takeaways

• You're not supposed to chase trends
• Understanding market trends requires long-term study
• Data from the past can inform future genre viability
• Genres that combine well-loved elements have better staying power
• Connecting genres to reader needs is crucial for success
• Timeless elements in stories can indicate longevity
• Fairy tale retellings are a mainstay in publishing
• Indie authors have changed the publishing landscape
• Genres can fluctuate but loyal fan bases remain
• Consider multiple factors before investing in a new genre

In this episode, Janeen Ippolito explores the age-old debate of night owls versus early birds in the context of creativity and productivity. She shares her personal experiences of balancing a demanding schedule while nurturing her creative side. Janeen emphasizes the importance of finding a rhythm that works for each individual, acknowledging that sleep patterns and productivity can vary greatly. She encourages listeners to embrace their unique creative seasons and to prioritize rest and self-care, ultimately advocating for a personalized approach to creativity.

Takeaways

• Creativity can thrive at any time of day
• Personal experiences shape our creative processes
• Finding your rhythm is key to productivity
• Sleep patterns vary - embrace what works for you
• Don't let societal pressures dictate your schedule
• Naps can be beneficial for night owls
• Rest is essential for long-term creativity

In this conversation, Janeen Ippolito emphasizes the significance of world building in science fiction and fantasy writing. She encourages authors to embrace the joy of creating unique worlds and to remember the importance of this aspect in their narratives. Ippolito discusses the challenges that come with writing in these genres, highlighting the extra work involved in developing cultures and settings. She also shares personal insights on maintaining excitement and balance in storytelling, urging writers to reconnect with the joy of their creative process.

Takeaways

• World building is a crucial element in storytelling.
• Authors should enjoy the process of creating their worlds.
• Science fiction and fantasy genres require more effort in world building.
• World building can convey messages in a subtle way.
• It's important to maintain excitement about your story world.
• Authors can lose sight of their passion when focused on deadlines.

In this conversation, Janeen Ippolito shares her predictions for the publishing industry in 2025, focusing on the impact of AI, the rise of personal branding, the evolution of direct sales, and the changing dynamics of author communities. She emphasizes the importance of critical thinking amidst information overload, the need for authors to establish their unique identities, and the challenges of managing profit margins in a competitive market. Ippolito also discusses the implications of tribalism in literature and the potential shifts in publishing models.

Takeaways

-AI will become more prevalent in publishing

-Personal branding will rise as a counter to AI

-Direct sales will become more decentralized and competitive

-Content inclusion and exclusion will shape author communities

-Profit margins will be harder to maintain

-Short-term collaborations may replace traditional publishing models