🎙️ Authors can’t just write in a alone in a cabin, they have to mix it up.
In this episode of The Author Next Door, Angela Haas and Cassie Newell sit down with bestselling author JD Barker to unpack what it really takes to succeed in today’s publishing world—from mastering your mindset to understanding the business behind the books.

We explore:

How to overcome the post–first book slump and stay motivated

Why mindset and persistence are your biggest creative tools

The reality of hybrid publishing and what it means for author freedom

Why you can’t separate writing from marketing anymore 📚💡

The art of thinking differently in a crowded industry

How collaboration can elevate your craft (if done right)

The value of querying agents—even if you’re indie or hybrid

Common myths about authorship and what the writing life really looks like

The importance of saying “no” and managing your creative energy

This is a must-watch episode for writers ready to treat their craft like a career—and take control of their creative future.

Answer in Comments 👇 What’s the best author advice you've ever received? 

Where to find J.D. 👉 https://jdbarker.com/

Support 🔊  @myNoiseDotNet   https://mynoise.net/   A great resource for sounds to help you write! 

🔔 Subscribe for more! ➡  https://www.youtube.com/@TheAuthorNextDoor    

🎙️For More About The Author Nextdoor ➡ https://theauthornextdoor.com/  

 🗺️ Other places to find us and connect:    
ANGELA HAAS Choose your own adventure  🚀💕  https://ahaaswrites.com/    

CASSIE NEWELL Romance 🩷 https://ckdarling.com/   
Young Adult 🧚  https://authorcmnewell.com/   
Writing Coach 📚  https://www.sassywritingcoach.com/     

ℹ️ Keywords 🔑 writing, publishing, mindset, collaboration, hybrid publishing, author advice, marketing, J.D. Barker, creativity, book promotion, self-publishing, indie authors

🎙️ Marketing doesn’t have to be overwhelming—especially when you have the right tools.
 In this episode of The Author Next Door, Cassie Newell and Angela Haas sit down with Kathleen Sweeney, COO of Book Brush, to talk all things author marketing, AI tools, and the evolving relationship between writers and readers.

They explore:

How author-reader relationships are changing—and how to make them work for you

The journey behind Book Brush and how it’s shaped by real author feedback

Simple ways to use Book Brush to level up your marketing game

Why marketing is a long game (and how to make it sustainable)

How translation services and virtual assistants can help expand your reach and save time

The launch of Author Anchor and the new resources it offers

Whether you’re just getting started or deep in the publishing grind, this episode is packed with tools, encouragement, and insider advice to help you grow with confidence.

Answer in comments👇 What’s one marketing tool or trick that’s worked for you lately?

Helpful Links: 
https://bookbrush.com/
https://authoranchor.com/

Support 🔊  @myNoiseDotNet   https://mynoise.net/   A great resource for sounds to help you write! 

🔔 Subscribe for more! ➡  https://www.youtube.com/@TheAuthorNextDoor    

🎙️For More About The Author Nextdoor ➡ https://theauthornextdoor.com/  

 🗺️ Other places to find us and connect:    
ANGELA HAAS Choose your own adventure  🚀💕  https://ahaaswrites.com/    

CASSIE NEWELL Romance 🩷 https://ckdarling.com/   
Young Adult 🧚  https://authorcmnewell.com/   
Writing Coach 📚  https://www.sassywritingcoach.com/     

ℹ️ Keywords 🔑 Book Brush, Kathleen Sweeney, author marketing, social media, AI in publishing, translation services, virtual assistance, author community, marketing strategies, indie authors, self-publishing 

🎙️ What happens when you bring queerness, coziness, and real representation into fantasy writing?
In this heartfelt episode of @theauthornextdoor, Cassie Newell and Angela Haas sit down with JP Rindfleisch IX, award-winning author of queer cozy fantasies, to talk about writing with authenticity, transitioning into full-time authorship, and the power of community in a creative career.

In this episode they explore:

JP’s journey into writing and the leap to becoming a full-time author

The enduring appeal of cozy mysteries and why they matter now more than ever

The importance of queer representation in genre fiction 🏳️‍🌈

How sensitivity readers help writers build trust and authenticity

Navigating negative feedback with grace and self-trust

The emotional impact of writing stories that reflect lived experiences

Why community and connection are essential for sustainable creativity

This episode is a warm, honest conversation for writers who want to tell meaningful stories and readers who crave cozy, inclusive fiction that makes them feel seen.

👇 What cozy mystery (or character) made you feel at home?

Where to find JP: https://shop.jprindfleischix.com/

Support 🔊  @myNoiseDotNet   https://mynoise.net/   A great resource for sounds to help you write! 

🔔 Subscribe for more! ➡  https://www.youtube.com/@TheAuthorNextDoor    

🎙️For More About The Author Nextdoor ➡ https://theauthornextdoor.com/  

 🗺️ Other places to find us and connect:    
ANGELA HAAS Choose your own adventure  🚀💕  https://ahaaswrites.com/    

CASSIE NEWELL Romance 🩷 https://ckdarling.com/   
Young Adult 🧚  https://authorcmnewell.com/   
Writing Coach 📚  https://www.sassywritingcoach.com/     

ℹ️ Keywords 🔑 queer cozy fantasy, writing journey, full-time author, cozy fantasy, community in writing, diverse characters, sensitivity readers, LBGTQ+ representation 

🎙️ Every story is shaped by perspective—and every perspective deserves space on the page.
In this powerful episode of  ⁨@TheAuthorNextDoor⁩  Cassie Newell and Angela Haas explore how personal experiences, culture, gender, and tradition all shape the way writers tell stories. This candid conversation reflects on their own creative journeys while celebrating the importance of diverse perspectives in the writing community.

They discuss:

How your personal and cultural background influences the stories you tell

The role of community traditions in shaping characters and voice

Why authentic representation matters (and where stereotypes fall short)

The challenges women face in writing and publishing industries

What it means to write with emotional honesty ✍️💬

How writing goals evolve over time—and why that’s a good thing

The creative growth that comes from listening to different perspectives

If you’ve ever questioned whether your story “counts” or struggled to find your place in the writing world—this episode will remind you: your voice matters.

Answer in comments👇 What life experience has shaped your writing most?

Support 🔊  @myNoiseDotNet   https://mynoise.net/   A great resource for sounds to help you write! 

🔔 Subscribe for more! ➡  https://www.youtube.com/@TheAuthorNextDoor    

🎙️For More About The Author Nextdoor ➡ https://theauthornextdoor.com/  

🗺️ Other places to find us and connect:    
ANGELA HAAS Choose your own adventure  🚀💕  https://ahaaswrites.com/    

CASSIE NEWELL Romance 🩷 https://ckdarling.com/   
Young Adult 🧚  https://authorcmnewell.com/   
Writing Coach 📚  https://www.sassywritingcoach.com/     

ℹ️ Keywords 🔑 writing, perspectives, storytelling, cultural background, gender, representation, community, personal experiences, misconceptions, career goals, self-publishing, indie authors

🎙️ From brain science to pulse-pounding thrillers—Christine Daigle knows how the mind works.
In this episode of The Author Next Door, Angela Haas and Cassie Newell talk with Christine Daigle, a neuropsychologist turned thriller author, about how her background in human behavior helps her craft unforgettable characters and twisty, tension-filled plots.

They dive into:

Christine’s unique journey from neuropsychology to thriller writing 🧠📚

How deep insight into human behavior and motivation fuels her characters

The craft of writing thrillers: pacing, twists, and emotional stakes

The power of collaboration and creative partnerships

What it really takes to transition between genres

How research adds authenticity—and what readers notice

The evolving world of speculative fiction and where she sees it going

Resources, mindset shifts, and community advice for indie authors

Answer in comments👇 What’s your favorite thriller that got into your head and stayed there?

Where to find Christine: https://www.christinedaiglebooks.com/

Support 🔊  @myNoiseDotNet   https://mynoise.net/   A great resource for sounds to help you write! 

🔔 Subscribe for more! ➡  https://www.youtube.com/@TheAuthorNextDoor    

🎙️For More About The Author Nextdoor ➡ https://theauthornextdoor.com/  

 🗺️ Other places to find us and connect:    
ANGELA HAAS Choose your own adventure  🚀💕  https://ahaaswrites.com/    

CASSIE NEWELL Romance 🩷 https://ckdarling.com/   
Young Adult 🧚  https://authorcmnewell.com/   
Writing Coach 📚  https://www.sassywritingcoach.com/     

ℹ️ Keywords 🔑 
thriller, writing, neuropsychology, character development, pacing, collaboration, speculative fiction, crime fiction, world-building, research, indie authors, self-publishing

🎙️ What makes dark fiction unforgettable? It’s not the monsters, it’s the emotions they uncover.
In this episode of  @TheAuthorNextDoor   Angela Haas and Cassie Newell sit down with Daniel Willcocks, bestselling dark fiction author, to explore his ten-year writing journey and the craft of writing horror that hits you in the gut—not just with fear, but with feeling.

In this episode you'll find: 

Daniel’s evolution from solo writer to collaborative creator and coach

The psychological layers of dark fiction and horror 🧠🕯️

How to build suspense and dread that keeps readers flipping pages

Why relatable characters make fear more powerful

The fine line between reader expectations and genre-breaking risks

Maintaining boundaries when collaborating creatively

The importance of loving the process, not just chasing outcomes

Whether you’re writing horror, dark fiction, or just looking for deeper creative insight, this episode will leave you thinking about fear in a whole new way.

Answer in comments 👇 What’s your favorite horror novel that made you feel something real?

Where to find Daniel: 
https://www.danielwillcocks.com/

Support 🔊  @myNoiseDotNet   https://mynoise.net/   A great resource for sounds to help you write! 

🔔 Subscribe for more! ➡  https://www.youtube.com/@TheAuthorNextDoor    

🎙️For More About The Author Nextdoor ➡ https://theauthornextdoor.com/  

🗺️ Other places to find us and connect:    
ANGELA HAAS Choose your own adventure  🚀💕  https://ahaaswrites.com/    

CASSIE NEWELL Romance 🩷 https://ckdarling.com/   
Young Adult 🧚  https://authorcmnewell.com/   
Writing Coach 📚  https://www.sassywritingcoach.com/     

ℹ️ Keywords 🔑 Daniel Willcocks, dark fiction, horror, writing, author, collaboration, boundaries, storytelling, suspense, reader expectations, monsters, post-apocalyptic novels, goosebumps for grownups

#theauthornextdoor #horrorauthor #indieauthors

🎙️ From short stories and satire to sci-fi, fantasy and rubber duckies? Meet David Hankins.
In this episode of  @TheAuthorNextDoor Angela Haas and Cassie Newell chat with David Hankins, award-winning author of fantasy and sci-fi, to talk about storytelling, writing rituals, and how a sense of humor can be a superpower.

In this episode we explore:

How David’s writing journey began with bedtime stories for his daughter

The transition from short stories to full-length novels

Crafting effective humor, satire, and heart into speculative fiction

The impact of his military background on character and worldbuilding

Why rest and creative recovery matter (especially for productivity)

Practical tips for pitching stories with clarity and confidence

And of course… his very unexpected love of rubber duckies 🐥

This is a lively, insightful, and delightfully quirky episode perfect for writers who want to explore the balance between structure and spontaneity.

Answer in Comments 👇 What's your favorite way to unwind after a big creative push?

Find our more about David Hankins here 🐤
https://davidhankins.com
https://www.facebook.com/DavidHankins.Author
https://www.instagram.com/_davidhankins/
https://www.tiktok.com/@_davidhankins
https://bsky.app/profile/davidhankins.bsky.social

Kickstarter for Murder Fish 👇 https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/mikejackstoumbos/murderfish-a-wonderbird-press-anthology

Support 🔊  @myNoiseDotNet   https://mynoise.net/   A great resource for sounds to help you write! 

🔔 Subscribe for more! ➡  https://www.youtube.com/@TheAuthorNextDoor    

🎙️For More About The Author Nextdoor ➡ https://theauthornextdoor.com/  

🗺️ Other places to find us and connect:    
ANGELA HAAS Choose your own adventure  🚀💕  https://ahaaswrites.com/    

CASSIE NEWELL Romance 🩷 https://ckdarling.com/   
Young Adult 🧚  https://authorcmnewell.com/   
Writing Coach 📚  https://www.sassywritingcoach.com/     

ℹ️ Keywords 🔑 David Hankins, writing, fantasy, sci-fi, humor, short stories, novels, military influence, writing advice, author journey, avoid burnout

#authorjourney #writingcommmunity #authorsuccess

🎙️ From romance to horror, and everything in between, this month we're talking genres!

In this episode of The Author Next Door, Cassie Newell and Angela Haas open up about the genres they write in and what draws them to each one. From first loves in storytelling to current favorites (and guilty pleasures), this conversation is both craft-focused and full of personal stories.

We explore:

Why we love writing in young adult and fantasy (and the freedom it brings)

The unique challenges (and joys) of romance writing 💕

Where we draw the line in horror and speculative fiction

Why romance and escapism remain timeless storytelling forces

How our writing styles have evolved across genres

Personal insights and fun facts you might not know about us

A sneak peek at upcoming guests and conversations 🎉

If you’ve ever genre-hopped, or wondered how writing in different spaces shapes your voice, this episode is a mix of reflection, craft talk, and a little author fun.

👇 What genre do YOU love writing or reading most? Drop it in the comments!

🔔 Subscribe for more! ➡  https://www.youtube.com/@TheAuthorNextDoor  

🎙️For More About The Author Nextdoor ➡ https://theauthornextdoor.com/  

Goodreads article on cross-genres:  https://www.goodreads.com/blog/show/2889-17-new-cross-genre-book-trends-we-re-spotting-in-2025

🗺️ Other places to find us and connect:  

ANGELA HAAS Choose your own adventure  🚀💕  https://ahaaswrites.com/  

CASSIE NEWELL Romance 🩷 https://ckdarling.com/  
Young Adult 🧚  https://authorcmnewell.com/  
Writing Coach 📚  https://www.sassywritingcoach.com/   

ℹ️ Keywords 🔑 : genres, writing, romance, young adult, fantasy, horror, speculative fiction, cross-genre, storytelling, escapism

#genres #writingprocess #theauthornextdoor 

🎙️ Want to see your book on bookstore shelves or sell more at live events?  Angela has some advice!

 In this episode of The Author Next Door, Angela Haas and Cassie Newell break down the nuts and bolts of selling books in person, with a special focus on indie bookstores and live events.

Angela shares insider tips from her years in retail, including:

• How to approach indie bookstores with confidence (and professionalism)
• The difference between wholesale vs. consignment—and what works best
• Why merchandising and presentation matter as much as the book itself
• Pricing strategies that set you up for success 💵
• How to make the most of book conventions and author fairs
• Red flags when researching events—so you don’t waste time or money

This episode is packed with practical, real-world advice to help indie authors thrive outside the digital marketplace and build lasting relationships with booksellers and readers.

👇 Have you tried selling your book in person? Share your best (or funniest!) experience with us!

🔔 Subscribe for more! ➡  https://www.youtube.com/@TheAuthorNextDoor 
🎙️For More About The Author Nextdoor ➡ https://theauthornextdoor.com/ 

🗺️ Other places to find us and connect:

ANGELA HAAS
Choose your own adventure 
🚀💕  https://ahaaswrites.com/

CASSIE NEWELL
Romance 🩷 https://ckdarling.com/ 
Young Adult 🧚  https://authorcmnewell.com/ 
Writing Coach 📚  https://www.sassywritingcoach.com/ 

ℹ️ Keywords 🔑: author business, indie bookstores, book marketing, selling books, merchandising, wholesale, consignment, book conventions, author events, creative marketing

🎙️What happens when you blend creative freedom with smart business strategy?
In this episode of The Author Next Door, Cassie Newell and Angela Haas talk with Sacha Black—author, entrepreneur, and writing mentor—about how she’s grown a thriving author business while staying true to the stories she loves to tell.

We explore:

• Sacha’s shift from nonfiction to fiction—and what she learned along the way
• Balancing reader expectations with your own creative instincts
• How to build a loyal reader community that feels like family
• Branding basics every author should know (and actually use)
• Creating accessible content that invites readers in
• The role of e-commerce, merchandise, and direct sales in an author business
• Why community engagement isn’t just nice—it’s necessary
• Defining yourself as an author entrepreneur and owning that identity

If you’ve ever wondered how to grow your reach without losing your creative spark, this conversation is packed with both practical strategies and inspiring mindset shifts.

👇 How do you balance creativity with business in your author career?

🔔 Subscribe for more! ➡  https://www.youtube.com/@TheAuthorNextDoor 

Find more about Sacha Black (aka Ruby Roe) Here:

✍️ Sacha Black: https://sachablack.co.uk/

💜 Ruby Roe:  https://www.rubyroe.co.uk/

🎙️To Find More About The Author Next Door➡ https://theauthornextdoor.com/ 

🗺️ Other places to find us and connect:

ANGELA HAAS

Choose your own adventure 

🚀💕  https://ahaaswrites.com/

CASSIE NEWELL

Romance 🩷 https://ckdarling.com/

Young Adult 🧚  https://authorcmnewell.com/

Writing Coach 📚  https://www.sassywritingcoach.com/

ℹ️

Keywords 🔑: author growth, writing journey, reader engagement, branding, marketing, e-commerce, merchandise, community, author entrepreneur, creative writing

#TheAuthorNextDoor  #WritingPodcast  #IndieAuthorTips