I discovered Vellum like we all discover things--via social media! :) And I was fascinated. It can't be this easy to format a book, can it? But it is. So I reached out to the founders and invited them to stop by and talk to us about all this awesome in such a small package. Fear not, Windows users, we might have a solution that is affordable that you can use right now! Not to mention, you want your ebook formatting to look this good—trust me!

Remember to tune in LIVE over on Blab.im/upgradestory and join us to ask YOUR questions!

It's an odd topic, but it's one that's been on my mind. When we start writing, we begin with an idea. But it always comes from someone else--whether it's a multitude of influences or just one, we get the germ of a story from others. Then we craft and polish to make it our own. The danger comes when we focus too much on emulating another author's voice, rather than simply adopting their techniques in our own voice . You'll hear me get pretty passionate about this topic...I can't help myself. :)

Don't forget to join us LIVE on Monday nights at 9PM EST on blab.im/upgradestory!

Patricia Eddy, William Galaini, and I discuss the dynamics of the editor/author relationship, the things that you should always talk to your editor about, and why "pushing back" is a healthy way to grow as an author. William's worked with both of us, and he's no stranger to a tough edit. 

Don't forget to join us LIVE on Blab.im/upgradestory to ask questions and hang out! Mondays at 9PM EST.

If you've ever found yourself dreading the rewriting process, we know your pain. But it's actually the part of the process that should be the most fun. Yes, you read that right! You should love the process! We discuss on a live Blab episode how to make your rewrite work for you, how to switch mindsets, and things to look at as you embrace the rewrite. You are welcome to join us for live discussions over at blab.im/upgradestory--we'd love to have you!

If you've ever felt this way, we know your pain. On this episode (recorded during a live show over at blab.im/upgradestory), we discussed the challenges that come with being a writer. How to cope, how to recognize when we're just being whiny vs. really struggling in life or craft. We all hit those walls and down times, and we have to acknowledge that it all matters. Let us know what your journey has comprised and share it with us via a live show or on Twitter (@upgradestory).

Author Becky Wade was so awesome to chat with on another podcast I host, I had to invite her to talk to you! Becky is a breath of fresh air--as an inspirational contemporary romance author, she tackles her craft with a logical, thoughtful approach. I love her character creation worksheets--they ask the tough questions that change the facets of your story and develop strong, unique characters. I can't wait to hear your feedback after you listen to this episode!

Remember that you can join me (and guests) live on Blab.im/upgradestory to ask questions and be inspired! I'd love to get to know you. :)

M.J. and his crew, the founders of Kosa Press, have never ceased to impress me with their dedication to craft and putting out the best possible work. I had the privilege of editing their first anthology, and the second one will release soon. Since M.J. and I have talked quite a bit about writing and the current publishing world, it was a no-brainer to have him on the show. We had a bit of technical issue on Blab, so this episode was recorded on Google Hangout. 

Feel free to join me for live episodes on Blab.im/upgradestory, where you can interact, ask questions, and get the content live!

If you aren't familiar with Nanowrimo (National Novel Writing Month), go check 'em out! It's a fun challenge as we get close to the end of the year, and it's definitely challenging to accomplish. I hopped on the podcast to offer a couple quick tips to keep you going and inspire you as you head for the goal!

Tex Thompson is back, and aren't you glad? I am! She's one of my favorite guests, and I'm always thrilled to chat with her. I apologize for the sound quality! I had an unexpected clash of life and podcasting, so hang tight, enjoy the show, and ignore my tech issues, which are a-plenty. ;) And let us know if you have questions!

PS--the podcasts are currently live on Google Hangouts on Air, and you can tune in and ask questions. So feel free to join us!

Our first Blab episode was a blast! If you aren't familiar with Blab, head over and check out this new social media platform that is great for conversations. William Galaini and I will be there Thursday evenings between 9-10PM EDT, and we'd love to talk to YOU! You can tune on and ask questions, laugh with us, and share your own publishing foibles. :D

For our first episode, we talked about short stories, beginner mistakes, and personal faux pas. We had way too much fun, and we can't wait to do it again. This will be a separate a podcast stream (I hope!), so I'll give directions shortly on how to get these episodes too! 

I also have a (sort of) short personal note at the beginning--you guys rock. Thank YOU for hanging out with me. <3