The Authors' Dilemma

The Authors' Dilemma

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The Authors' Dilemma episodes

  • Episode 15 - Branding the Author's Journey

    This week, join hosts J.E. Jack, Hyrum Hawks, and Jennifer Carr as they delve deep into the realities of creating and maintaining an effective author brand. This special episode, recorded during our 15th show, explores the unique challenges and triumphs of branding in the literary world. From leveraging social media to optimizing book covers for genre alignment, the discussion covers a broad spectrum of branding essentials. This episode is packed with humor, real-life challenges, and practical advice, making it a must-listen for any author aiming to carve out a unique space in the crowded book market. Whether you're tuning in from your car or catching up at home, don't hesitate to reach out and share your thoughts at [email protected]. Enjoy a blend of storytelling, strategic branding tips, and a candid look at the life of an author.

    39 min
  • Episode 14 - Insights and Antics on Alpha, Beta, and Arcs

    In this week’s episode, hosts J.E. Jack, Hyrum Hawks, and Jennifer Carr share their latest adventures and setbacks, including encounters with noisy jets and the struggles with technology in publishing. They delve into the practicalities of managing beta readers, the excitement of building a dedicated ARC team, and the peculiarities of dealing with fan interactions online. Whether discussing the nuts and bolts of grammar in audiobooks or the dynamics of author branding, the hosts keep the conversation engaging, educational, and full of humor.


    Perfect for both aspiring authors and seasoned writers, "The Author's Dilemma Show" not only offers a behind-the-scenes look at the craft but also provides a platform for listener interaction. Tune in live to contribute to the conversation, share your experiences, and become part of our author community. Whether you’re in your car or cozy at home, let us accompany you on your author journey, offering tips, laughs, and a sense of camaraderie along the way.

    40 min
  • Episode 13 - Strategies for Successful Writing and Editing

    In this episode, recorded on a lively Thursday evening, offers a trove of insights for writers at any stage. From the creative chaos of managing multiple writers' groups to the delicate art of balancing writing with personal life, our hosts share their diverse writing backgrounds in horror, sci-fi, and romance. Explore the importance of writers' groups, the challenges of editing, and the complexities of working with editors, all while navigating the personal journeys that shape an author's work. The trio delves into personal challenges, from navigating writer's groups to the balancing act of personal life and creativity. They share insider tips on maintaining productivity, the importance of honest feedback, and strategies for effective editing—all while fostering a supportive community among writers. Whether you're looking for motivation, editing advice, or just a peek into the author's world, this episode offers a mix of humor, honesty, and heartfelt discussion. Tune in for an enlightening conversation that's as diverse and dynamic as the genres they explore.

    42 min
  • Episode 12 - Navigating Creativity: The Author's Journey

    Join our hosts, J.E. Jack, Hyrum Hawks, and Jennifer Carr, as they delve into the ebbs and flows of their creative journeys. From urban fantasy and paranormal thrillers to hard sci-fi, sci-fantasy, Christian romantic suspense, and clean contemporary romance, our diverse trio brings a rich tapestry of genres to the table.

    In our 12th episode, we embark on a candid discussion about the unpredictable journey of writing, starting from a simple idea on Discord to a growing podcast. Our hosts share their personal experiences with writing rituals, the chaos and order of creativity, and the importance of embracing one’s unique process. 

    Dive into a conversation that's as much about the personal growth behind the pages as it is about the stories themselves. Whether you're wrestling with your first draft, exploring new writing techniques, or simply looking for camaraderie in the solitary pursuit of writing, "Navigating Creativity: Author's Journey" is your invitation to join a community where the dilemmas of writing are unfolded and tackled, one story at a time. Say hello, share your thoughts, and become a part of our journey to understand the art and soul of writing.

    40 min
  • Episode 11 - A Deep Dive into Rights, Copyrights, and Authorship

    Episode 11 of "The Author's Dilemma," the podcast where writers from different genres come together to share their experiences, challenges, and triumphs in the ever-evolving world of authorship.

    J.E. Jack, known for his gripping horror and urban fantasy tales, Hyrum Hawks, the mastermind behind hard sci-fi and sci-fantasy epics, and Jennifer Carr, the heart and soul behind Christian Romantic Suspense and Clean Contemporary Romance, come together in a dynamic discussion that spans from personal updates to deep dives into copyright laws, side businesses, and the unglamorous yet rewarding side of author events.

    This week's conversation takes a turn towards the technical, as Hyrum shares insights from his background as a patent agent, shedding light on the often confusing world of patents, trademarks, and copyrights. We tackle the daunting question of whether you need a copyright for every format of your work, from paperbacks to audiobooks, and explore the strategic importance of retaining rights to your creative outputs.

    Beyond the nuts and bolts of legal protection, this episode celebrates the small victories and community feedback that keep us motivated. From side ventures in quantum computing to the complexities of balancing writing with life's demands, "The Author's Dilemma" offers a candid look into the lives of authors navigating the modern literary landscape.

    Join us as we discuss the importance of understanding and protecting your rights, the nuances of contracts and copyrights, and the joy of connecting with fellow writers and readers. Whether you're a seasoned author or just starting out, this episode is packed with valuable insights and tips to help you navigate the creative maze of authorship.

    Elissa Hecker, Entertainment Lawyer https://www.eheckeresq.com/

    37 min
  • Episode 10 - The Writer's Compass: Navigating Creativity, Contracts, and the Craft

    As they celebrate their 10th episode, the trio delves into topics like job hunting, the importance of accountability in writing, the joys of manuscript completion, and the challenges of marketing and editing. They also discuss the implications of contracts, rights, and navigating terms of service, highlighting the pitfalls to avoid in self-publishing. This episode is a treasure trove of insights for writers at any stage of their journey, providing both inspiration and practical advice to help you navigate the complexities of the author's path. Join us for a heartfelt and informative discussion that's sure to ignite your passion for writing and arm you with the knowledge to succeed.

    https://stickerapp.com/

    https://www.jcarrwrites.com/free-resources

    45 min
  • Episode 9 - Unraveling Genres: A Deep Dive with The Author's Dilemma

    Dive into the captivating world of literature with "The Author's Dilemma," a podcast where authors J.E. Jack, Hyrum Hawks, and Jennifer Carr explore the intricacies of writing across genres. From urban fantasy to hard sci-fi, Christian fiction, and beyond, each episode is a journey into the challenges and triumphs of storytelling. The trio also navigates the evolving landscape of publishing, from the implications of changes in Amazon's Vella terms to the revolutionary negotiations by famous authors. Join us as we delve into the vast spectrum of genres, including the distinctions between literary fiction, mystery, thriller, sci-fi, fantasy, and more. Discover the delicate balance of targeting the right audience, the excitement of entering writing contests, and the passion behind crafting stories that resonate. Whether you're an aspiring writer or a seasoned author, "Unraveling Genres: A Deep Dive with The Author's Dilemma" offers invaluable insights, laughter, and a sense of community in the ever-changing world of writing.


    52 min
  • Episode 8 - Leap Day Mindset: Navigating the Author's Journey with Humor and Insight

    In this special Leap Day episode of "The Author's Dilemma," hosts J.E. Jack, Hyrum Hawks, and Jennifer Carr dive deep into the crucial role mindset plays in an author's life. Celebrating the rarity of Leap Year, this episode is all about the unique challenges and triumphs encountered in the writing process, from the initial spark of an idea to dealing with the rollercoaster of reviews and the ever-present imposter syndrome. The hosts share personal anecdotes and strategies for overcoming obstacles, highlighting the importance of persistence, self-belief, and a little bit of humor. Whether you're battling writer's block, wrestling with self-doubt, or just looking for a leap of inspiration, this episode offers valuable insights into the mental game of writing. Join us for a candid conversation on how to cultivate a resilient mindset that embraces the highs and lows of the author's journey.

    39 min
  • Episode 7 - Navigating the Publishing Maze: Insights and Laughs

    Join hosts J.E. Jack, Hyrum Hawks, and Jennifer Carr as they dive into the exhilarating world of publishing with a mix of humor, expert advice, and candid discussions. In this episode, they share their personal journeys and struggles with genres ranging from paranormal thrillers and hard sci-fi to Christian suspense and clean contemporary romance. The trio tackles the complexities of self-publishing, exploring everything from the significance of ISBNs to choosing the right platforms for distributing your work. Whether you're debating between Amazon and IngramSpark, considering the pros and cons of Kindle Unlimited, or curious about the possibilities of audiobooks and AI narration, this episode is a treasure trove of information. They also discuss the pitfalls of vanity publishing and offer insights into hybrid and traditional publishing models. Whether you're a seasoned author or just starting out, "The Author's Dilemma Podcast" is your go-to resource for navigating the publishing landscape with confidence and a sense of humor. Tune in to demystify the publishing process, learn practical tips for reaching your readers, and join a community of authors dedicated to supporting each other's success.

    38 min
  • Episode 6 - Navigating Milestones and Missteps: A Writer's Journey Explored

    In this engaging episode of "The Author's Dilemma," hosts J.E. Jack, Hyrum Hawks, and Jennifer Carr delve into the myriad challenges and victories encountered on the path to authorship. From the excitement of Valentine's Day anecdotes to the complexities of navigating writing conventions, publishing hurdles, and the emotional rollercoaster of receiving feedback, this episode offers a candid look into the lives of authors at different stages in their careers. Sharing personal experiences with editing, marketing, and the quest for the perfect book cover, the trio provides invaluable insights and advice for aspiring writers. Whether discussing the significance of author milestones, the importance of a supportive community, or strategies to overcome post-release blues, this episode is rich in encouragement and wisdom for anyone embroiled in the creative process.

    40 min

About The Authors' Dilemma

From the publisher's feed

This ain't your grandma's writing club – it's a rollercoaster of real talk, raw insights, and maybe a few writerly shenanigans. We're not here to spout cliches or pretend writing is all rainbows and butterflies. We're your partners in crime, sharing war stories, epic fails, and maybe a few questionable writing hacks. Let's create a community that's as messy and beautiful as your first draft.