The Pen to Published Podcast

EPISODE 8: TRADITIONAL VERSUS SELF-PUBLISHING - WITH GUEST RACHEL ROWLANDS

For the final episode of series 4, Alexa 1 and Alexa 2 chat to author and editor, Rachel Rowlands, who offers a wealth of valuable information on traditional publishing and self-publishing. If you're wondering about the best way forward for you and your book, you'll find what you need to know here to help you weigh up the pros and cons of each publication route.

SERIES 4 EPISODE 7: INTERVIEW WITH EDITOR YASMIN YARWOOD

In the penultimate episode of series 4, Alexa 1 and Alexa 2 chat with editor Yasmin Yarwood to get her perspectives on the editing process, that vital component in producing a book that sings on every page.

SERIES 4 EPISODE 6: USEFUL TERMS TO KNOW IN EDITING AND TYPESETTING

Have you ever wondered what a folio is? Or a running head? And what about back matter and front matter? In this episode, the two Alexas run through the terms you'll need to know if you want to publish a book.

SERIES 4 EPISODE 5: YOUR WRITING AND PUBLISHING QUESTIONS ANSWERED

In this episode, the two Alexas answer common questions on the writing and publishing process. So if you've ever asked: 'How long does it take to write a book?'; 'How do you go about writing a second draft?'; 'Where do you get ideas for a story?' - then this episode is for you.

SERIES 4 EPISODE 4: RECOMMENDED BOOKS AND BLOGS ON THE ART OF WRITING

There's a wealth of resources out there for writers wanting to learn how to write well and to hone their craft. Here, the Alexas reveal some of their top picks from what's available.

SERIES 4 EPISODE 3: WRITING AND EDITING ORGANISATIONS TO SUPPORT YOUR WRITER/EDITOR LIFE

There's a perception that the writer's (and the freelance editor's) life can be a lonely one. But in episode 3, Alexa 1 and Alexa 2 introduce some fantastic writing and editing organisations and groups that can support, advise and encourage. Editing organisations are also the best places for authors to find excellent editors.

SERIES 4 EPISODE 2: UNDERSTANDING HEADING HIERARCHIES, CALLS TO ACTION AND THOSE LITTLE ISBN BOXES

For a book that's visually highly polished, fantastic book design really matters. In episode 2, the two Alexas explain the importance of internal-page heading hierarchies, and how even the way you present the ISBN on the cover can add that extra bit of professionalism. And when it comes to encouraging readers to engage with you and what you can offer, your 'call to action' is a must.

SERIES 4 EPISODE 1: HOW TO CREATE GREAT BOOK TITLES AND STRAPLINES, BLURBS AND AUTHOR BIOS

Alexa Whitten and Alexa Tewkesbury return for a fourth series of their popular podcast for authors. In episode 1, the focus is on creating compelling titles, straplines, blurbs and author bios. These can be trickier to put together than some writers realise, but getting them right is vital if you want to entice potential readers to buy your books.

SERIES 3 EPISODE 8: INTERVIEW WITH LUCILLE OSSAI

In this final episode of series three, the two Alexas talk to Lucille Ossai, author, communications trainer, advisor, speaker and multi-award-winning blogger. Having both worked on Lucille's book, Influence & Thrive, they were keen to chat with her about her vision for the final product, and the importance of great book design in achieving it.

SERIES 3 EPISODE 7: ALL THINGS IMAGES

The topic for this week's episode is images and what you need to know when getting your book ready for print. Even if your book contains no images, there's still the cover to think about, so it's vital to understand the technicalities.