Award-winning author and ghostwriter Joel Mark Harris joins Susie Schaefer to reveal what really goes into writing powerful books for others. From navigating painful life stories with sensitivity, to using intuition to shape authentic narratives, Joel breaks down the myths of ghostwriting, the emotional depth behind memoir work, and the art of capturing someone’s true voice. He also shares his process, the importance of storytelling structure, and how writers can honor their past while creating a message that resonates with readers.

Finish the Damn Book Podcast is for writers who know they have a book in them — and are ready to finally get it done.

Hosted by Susie Schaefer, this show cuts through perfectionism, overwhelm, and publishing myths to focus on what actually moves a book forward. Through honest conversations with authors, editors, ghostwriters, and industry insiders, Susie explores the craft, mindset, and real-world mechanics of writing books readers finish and share.

Each episode offers a blend of:

• Practical writing and revision strategies
• Clear-eyed insight into publishing, platform-building, and promotion
• Encouragement for writers stuck in the middle (or avoiding the hardest chapter)
• Permission to write imperfectly — and keep going

Whether you’re working on memoir, nonfiction, or a book that defies categories, Finish the Damn Book is here to help you stop circling the idea and start delivering the work.

Because the world doesn’t need another unfinished manuscript, it needs your finished book.