Most authors underestimate the importance of owning their online presence. Marya Nguyen, founder of Yangu Web Studio, unpacks why having a strategic website is crucial and how DIY mistakes can trip you up long-term. If you're feeling overwhelmed by the technical side or worried about hidden pitfalls, this episode reveals some areas writers can own when it comes to building their website. Marya covers practical insights on design, styling, and strategy as well as how to build a platform that genuinely reflects you as an author, your work, and brand. She shares surprising tips on ADA compliance, search engine optimization, and avoiding scam tactics that prey on unprepared creators.

She's not all business though as she, Lauren, and Darcy laugh at some of the common misconceptions around websites. Marya shares insights with empathy as she resonates with the struggle indie authors have when it comes to aligning their website’s purpose with their career goals. Tag an author friend who could benefit from hearing Marya's amazing insights and follow her on her adventure at any of her social media platforms, or website, below!

www.yanguweb.studio

Youtube: yanguwebstudio 

LinkedIn: yangu-web-studio

IG: maccuddles

Come join our adventures by following us on your favorite platform below!

IG: mistymorningstories & darcy_micaela & untitledworkinpodcast

TikTok: untitledworkinpodcast

Threads: mistymorningstories

Substack: mistymorningstories

https://www.mistymorningstories.com/

https://www.darcymicaela.com/

In this episode, Darcy and Lauren explore the nuances of networking, social media, and building genuine connections within the writing and creative communities. They share practical tips, personal stories, and insights on overcoming social anxiety, leveraging social platforms, and fostering authentic relationships.

Most writers and creators dread networking because it feels awkward or insincere. But what if building genuine connections was just about taking simple, authentic steps such as offering a sincere compliment or asking a thoughtful question?

Darcy and Lauren reveal how to shift your perspective on networking from forced flattery and schmoozing to meaningful relationships that can not only elevate your writing career but may also be a friend in the making! We also discuss how social media platforms like Threads are transforming casual interactions into valuable opportunities. 

Listen in as we break down practical strategies such as how to 'shoot your shot' with potential guests, leverage local bookshops for connections, and master the art of active listening at conferences or online. Lauren shares her behind-the-scenes experiences with film shoots and vertical videos, illustrating how specific, deliberate outreach can open doors. Meanwhile, Darcy delves into the emotional side of imposter syndrome, confidence, and bravery, encouraging you to embrace vulnerability as a strength rather than a barrier.

If you're done waiting for the 'right time' to connect or feel overwhelmed by social media, this episode is your roadmap to start building real relationships today. Whether you're pitching guests for your podcast, collaborating with other writers, or just trying to feel less alone in your creativity, Darcy and Lauren's insights will inspire you to take that first step and keep stepping forward.

For more of our shenanigans follow us on your favorite platform below!

IG: mistymorningstories & darcy_micaela & untitledworkinpodcast  

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Threads: mistymorningstories

Substack: mistymorningstories

https://www.mistymorningstories.com/ 

https://www.darcymicaela.com/ 

Most aspiring bookstore owners and indie authors underestimate one vital ingredient: community engagement. Kristen Rochelle, owner of the Lazy Daisy Bookshop, shares how her journey from non-reader to beloved local hotspot can inspire you to build authentic connections that drive foot traffic, sales, and a thriving literary community, all without relying solely on traditional marketing.

In this candid episode, Kristen reveals how she turned her initial passion into a fast-growing business in just two months, emphasizing the importance of in-person events like themed parties, book clubs, and exclusive author signings that is turning customers into loyal fans. She discusses the power of social media, especially Facebook and Instagram, and how organic engagement exceeds paid ads when targeting local audiences. You’ll discover smart strategies for promoting your store or book in a crowded digital landscape, including the value of authentic visuals, leveraging local word-of-mouth, and creating memorable community experiences.

This episode is packed with practical tips for indie authors: how to effectively showcase your books with compelling visuals, the importance of personalized headshots, and how to craft an irresistible EPK that intrigues indie book stores. Kristen also shares her insider perspective on navigating online book sales, competing with Amazon, and supporting local businesses through platforms like Bookshop.org and Libro.fm.

This episode is a peak behind the curtain of small business resilience, creative marketing, and community-driven growth, perfect for bookstore owners, indie authors, or anyone looking to strengthen their place in the literary world. Kristen’s story offers inspiring lessons and practical tactics you can start today.

Kristen Rochelle is the owner of the Lazy Daisy Bookshop, a rapidly growing indie bookstore in North Carolina known for its community events and love of romance and fantasy.

IG/FB/TikTok: @thelazydaisybookshop

www.thelazydaisybookshop.com 

Follow along with us on your favorite platform: 

IG: @mistymorningstories & @darcy_micaela & @untitledworkinpodcast  

TikTok: untitledworkinpodcast 

Threads: mistymorningstories

Substack: mistymorningstories

https://www.mistymorningstories.com/ 

https://www.darcymicaela.com/ 

Lauren and Darcy explore how your storytelling approach must evolve as you shift between formats—whether you’re crafting a novel, a film, a social media post, or a poem. Discover why elements like color symbolism and internal monologue can make or break your story depending on the medium, and how frameworks like Save the Cat give you the structure to succeed in both novels and screenplays. Imagine adapting your WIP into a visual social media experience, or using color symbolism to evoke emotion, or experimenting with internal monologue in a TikTok ghost story. Lauren and Darcy share behind-the-scenes insights from adapting books to screen, writing techniques that boost engagement, and practical ways to use the Save the Cat framework to strengthen your narrative in any format.

We’ll break down the high stakes of mastering multiple formats: from expanding your audience to building a multi-platform IP. With real-world examples like The Hunger Games adaptation and innovative social media storytelling, you’ll learn how to embrace creative constraints, push your boundaries, and make your story resonate everywhere.

Perfect for indie authors, social media storytellers, and creatives ready to diversify their toolkit. Tune in to harness the power of color symbolism, internal monologue, and the Save the Cat framework—so your story shines on every platform.

Follow us for more storytelling tips and shenanigans:

IG: @mistymorningstories, @darcy_micaela, @untitledworkinpodcast

TikTok: untitledworkinpodcast

Threads: mistymorningstories

Substack: mistymorningstories

https://www.mistymorningstories.com/

https://www.darcymicaela.com/

Are you a self-published author curious, or maybe even overwhelmed, by the world of audiobook production and narration? This episode is your essential guide to unlocking the power of audiobooks for indie authors! Join us as we sit down with Candace Fitzgerald, an award-winning audiobook narrator and voice actor with over 100 titles narrated for both independent authors and major publishing houses like Penguin Random House, Hachette, and Simon & Schuster.

Candace goes beyond just explaining audiobook narration. She reveals what really goes into audiobook production, why audiobooks are a game-changing sales funnel for self-published authors, and everything you need to know before bringing your story to life in an audio format. Wondering about budgeting, timelines, or whether investing in an audiobook is worth it? Candace answers these questions and more, providing actionable steps and plenty of practical advice to help you confidently navigate your audiobook journey.

Whether you’re just starting to think about audiobook production, feeling intimidated but intrigued, or ready to launch your own audiobook, this episode is packed with insights tailored for self-published authors. Grab your notebook, cause Candace is about to give you all the homework you need to succeed!

Connect with Candace Fitzgerald for more expert tips on audiobook narration and production:

- Website: www.candacefitzgerald.com

- IG, TikTok, Facebook, LinkedIn, Threads: @candacefitzgeraldvo

Join our indie author adventure and stay inspired:

- IG: mistymorningstories, @darcy_micaela, untitledworkinpodcast

- TikTok: @untitledworkinpodcast

- Threads & Substack: @mistymorningstories

- Websites: https://www.mistymorningstories.com/ & https://www.darcymicaela.com/

Do you ever wonder if your characters are truly consistent or if they’re evolving in ways you didn’t expect? In this episode, indie debut authors Darcy and Lauren pull back the curtain on the co-writing process to reveal how character evolution is not just possible, but essential for authentic storytelling. Discover how their protagonist Matilda transformed dramatically from early drafts, and how maintaining character consistency became both a challenge and a creative opportunity during their collaboration.

Whether you’re struggling with character arcs or navigating the complexities of co-writing, Darcy and Lauren share practical strategies for embracing character change, leveraging feedback, and communicating effectively with your writing partner. They discuss how genre blending, from rom-coms to zombie love stories, impacts character tone and development, and why character evolution is an ongoing journey, not a one-time achievement.

Packed with actionable tips for writers at any stage, this episode will help you let go of the pressure to get your characters "right" on the first try. Instead, learn how to trust the process, respond to your characters’ growth, and keep your story fresh and engaging. Perfect for aspiring authors, fiction fans, and anyone fascinated by how stories come to life through co-writing and character consistency.

What resonated with you most from this episode? Share your thoughts and connect with us:

IG: mistymorningstories, darcy_micaela, untitledworkinpodcast

TikTok: untitledworkinpodcast

Threads: mistymorningstories

Substack: mistymorningstories

YouTube: mistymorningstories

Learn more:

https://www.mistymorningstories.com/

https://www.darcymicaela.com/

Did you know that literary agents like Jessica Berg of Rosecliff Literary are valuable partners for every author? Not just those pursuing traditional publishing! In this episode, we dive deep into the world of literary agents and explore the latest publishing trends, how to craft irresistible comp titles, and why avoiding "schmagents" is crucial for your writing journey. Jessica, founder of Rosecliff Literary, shares her insider knowledge and actionable advice, offering more insights than your favorite AP English teacher. Discover the industry-standard framework for query letters, tips for that all-important first agent meeting, and must-know resources (including a new thesaurus you’ll want to bookmark). Jessica also reveals what’s trending in publishing this year, all while reminding us that "We don’t write to trends." Grab your notebook and get ready for an episode packed with practical takeaways!

What was the most surprising or helpful piece of info you heard today?

Follow Jessica Berg and Rosecliff Literary for more insights:

IG & Threads: jessica__berg & roseclifflit

https://www.jessicaberg.me/

https://www.rosecliffliterary.com/

Stay connected with Mistymorningstories on IG, Substack, YouTube, Threads, and FB.

IG: Darcy_Micaela | TikTok: untitledworkinpodcast

https://www.mistymorningstories.com/

https://www.darcymicaela.com/

Indie authors know that social media marketing can feel like a maze. In this episode, Lauren and Darcy reveal how a simple shift in their approach to author branding helped them stand out online, even if that shift happened by accident! Listen in as they share some hilarious (and cringe-worthy) tech mishaps, proving that sometimes you just have to laugh and keep moving forward. Plus, get the latest updates on their writing journeys, upcoming projects, and to-do lists. Lauren also dives deep into Save the Cat story beats, offering practical insights on how these storytelling moments can strengthen your books and your brand as an author. If you’ve been struggling with social media marketing or want to refine your author branding and master story beats, this episode is packed with inspiration and actionable tips.

What social media strategies have you tried as an indie author?

You can follow us on any of the platforms below or check out our websites!IG: mistymorningstories & darcy_micaela & untitledworkinpodcast TikTok: untitledworkinpodcast Threads: mistymorningstoriesSubstack: mistymorningstorieshttps://www.mistymorningstories.com/ https://www.darcymicaela.com/

Ready to unravel the publishing process and elevate your manuscript? In this episode, we sit down with Lauren Grange, a seasoned editor whose career spans the Big Five publishing houses and the indie author world. Lauren shares her expert perspective on every stage of editing from copy editing, line editing, proofreading, and the often-misunderstood "cold read" that traditional publishers rely on. Discover what sets copy editing apart, how a cold read can transform your story, and the secrets behind how the pros streamline the publishing process.

Whether you're an indie author, an aspiring writer, or simply fascinated by what happens behind the scenes in publishing, this deep dive will empower you to make informed decisions and improve your craft. Lauren also reveals timely, behind-the-scenes insights into the publishing industry you won’t want to miss!

Tag an author friend who needs to hear this episode, and share your biggest takeaways below!

Follow Copy Editor Lauren Grange and explore her adventures:

- Website: https://www.booksonthegrange.com/

- Thirty30K: https://thirty30k.com/

- Instagram: books.on.the.grange

Connect with Darcy & Lauren:

- IG: mistymorningstories, darcy_micaela, untitledworkinpodcast

- TikTok: untitledworkinpodcast

- Threads & Substack: mistymorningstories

- Websites: https://www.mistymorningstories.com/ | https://www.darcymicaela.com/

In this episode, Lauren and Darcy dive into the real writing journey of indie authors, sharing the ups, downs, and everything in between. They get honest about the challenges indie authors face, from juggling deadlines and responsibilities to figuring out effective marketing for authors. If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by your to-do list or wondered how other writers manage the chaos, this episode is your candid, humorous, and inspiring companion on the path to building your dream.

Tune in as Lauren and Darcy embrace the messiness of the writing journey, discuss creative pivots, and share practical insights on marketing for authors, proving that everyone, no matter where they are, is a work in progress. Whether you’re just starting out or deep into your indie author career, you’ll find relatable advice and motivation to keep moving forward.

Connect with Lauren and Darcy on your favorite platforms:

IG: mistymorningstories, darcy_micaela, untitledworkinpodcast

TikTok: untitledworkinpodcast

Threads: mistymorningstories

Substack: mistymorningstories

Websites:

https://www.mistymorningstories.com/ | https://www.darcymicaela.com/