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In this episode of Way-Word Writers, the hosts Heather Cashman, Stephanie Bearce, and Nicki Jacobsmeyer, engage with Matt Kay, CEO of Bindery Books, and Meg​han Harvey, Co-founder and President. They discuss Bindery Books' revolutionary publishing model that leverages 'tastemaker' influencers to lead imprints and engage with their audiences through exclusive memberships, driving demand and creating sustainable careers for authors and influencers. The episode covers how Bindery Books nurtures marginalized voices, provides better financial returns for authors, and the evolving relationship between creative content and market engagement. Matt and Megan also explain the operational strategy, royalty structures, and the collaborative approach to editing and book promotion. Throughout the episode, the vision of fostering new voices and innovative business models in the publishing industry is emphasized.

00:00 Welcome to Way-Word Writers
00:40 Introducing Bindery Books' CEO and President
02:11 Innovative Publishing Models
03:01 Engaging Audiences and Membership Models
05:05 Selecting Influencers and Building Communities
08:11 Collaborating with Authors and Influencers
10:09 Exploring Genres and Trends
14:22 Balancing Creative Integrity and Market Preferences
17:10 Sustaining Long-Term Investment
18:30 Financial Structure and Incentives
19:57 Navigating the Publishing Landscape
20:47 Measuring Success in the Book Industry
21:41 Editorial Oversight and Creative Control
24:00 Trends in Influencer-Driven Content
25:05 Finding and Partnering with Influencers
29:34 The Future of Publishing and Social Media
34:39 Getting Your Work Out There
35:57 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

B​indery Books

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In this special anniversary episode of Way-Word Writers, senior literary agent Heather Cashman, author and writing coach Stephanie Bearce, and author and writing coach Nicki Jacobsmeyer celebrate one year of their podcast. They emphasize their mission to support writers in all genres and publishing paths through various platforms. The highlight of this episode is their critique session, where they read and provide feedback on the first pages of several submitted manuscripts. They cover a range of genres including adult historical fiction, young adult fantasy, middle grade magical realism, and picture books. The hosts offer constructive criticism and highlight the importance of elements such as pacing, character introduction, narrative voice, and the balance between text and illustrations in picture books. The episode showcases the talent of their audience and provides valuable insights for all writers.

00:00 Welcome to Way-Word Writers
01:42 Celebrating One Year of Way-Word Writers
02:24 First Page Reading: Adult Historical Fiction Adventure
04:13 First Page Feedback: Adult Historical Fiction Adventure
10:54 First Page Reading: Young Adult Fantasy
12:08 First Page Feedback: Young Adult Fantasy
18:59 First Page Reading: Middle Grade Magical Realism and Humor
20:49 First Page Feedback: Middle Grade Magical Realism and Humor
26:00 First Page Reading: Kid's Microbe Adventure
26:44 Introduction to Germs and Microbiomes
27:48 Feedback on Nonfiction Picture Book
33:33 Discussion on Iditarod Picture Book
43:48 Review of Farm Life Picture Book
51:17 Closing Remarks and Encouragement

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In this episode of Way-Word Writers, hosts Heather Cashman, Stephanie Bearce, and Nicki Jacobsmeyer are joined by editor Foyinsi Adigbonmire from Feiwel & Friends, an imprint of Macmillan Children's. The discussion delves into the intricacies of creating a distinctive narrative voice, the difference between character and narrative voice, and how to balance authenticity with genre expectations. Foyinsi shares insights on her editing philosophy, the role of perspective and flow in narrative voice, and offers practical advice for writers on experimentation and finding their unique voice. The conversation also touches on current trends in publishing, particularly in young adult and middle grade fiction, and the utilization of multiple points of view. Foyinsi emphasizes the importance of practice, revision, and the art of balancing feedback while staying true to the story's essence.

00:00 Welcome to Way-Word Writers
00:34 Meet Editor Foyinsi Adigbonmire
01:33 Crafting and Creativity
03:02 Creating a Distinctive Narrative Voice
05:24 Balancing Voice with Genre Expectations
07:19 Exploring Anthologies and Voice
09:12 Teaching and Developing Unique Voice
16:19 Multiple Points of View and Distinct Voices
20:51 Experimenting with Unconventional Voices
23:10 Overcoming Writing Challenges
24:16 The Role of Editing in Writing
24:38 Finding Your Unique Voice
27:18 Navigating Manuscript Submissions
32:26 Common Mistakes in Writing
35:52 Experimenting with Different Writing Styles
39:57 Encouragement for Writers
41:12 Conclusion and Farewell  

​Mermaids Never Drown Anthology

Faeries Never Lie Anthology

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In this milestone episode of Way-Word Writers, Heather Cashman, Stephanie Bearce, and Nicki Jacobsmeyer reflect on their journey of creating the podcast, expressing gratitude for the community they have built. The trio discusses personal challenges, growth, and the value of fostering connections within the writing community. They share insights on dealing with social media, offering and receiving critique, and upcoming plans for retreats and new ventures in 2025. This episode is filled with heartfelt conversations, advice for writers at all stages, and a look ahead to future opportunities for listener engagement and learning.

00:00 Welcome to Way-Word Writers
00:31 Celebrating 50 Episodes
00:52 The Journey of Starting the Podcast
02:43 Building a Writing Community
04:55 Challenges and Learnings
09:45 Future Plans and Aspirations
10:53 Facing Rejections and Rewrites
17:38 Encouragement and Growth
20:37 Managing Ideas: Notebooks and Digital Tools
22:16 The Perfect Notebook: TUL and Other Favorites
24:46 The Power and Pitfalls of Social Media
28:34 Building a Supportive Writing Community
36:24 Upcoming Events and Future Plans
38:20 Final Thoughts and Farewell

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In this episode of Way​-word ​Writers, hosts Heather Cashman, Stephanie Bearce, and Nicki Jacobsmeyer welcome Dr. Cristie Ritz King, an expert in trauma and maternal mental health, to discuss how to write authentically and sensitively about mental health issues. Dr. King shares her journey from a teacher to a trauma therapist, and offers valuable tips for writers on depicting mental health challenges realistically, understanding the interplay of cultural context, and maintaining ethical considerations. The conversation also covers the importance of self-care for therapists and insights into the therapeutic process. Additionally, Dr. King provides practical advice on how characters can discover personal triggers and how to portray therapy sessions and mental health support systems authentically in writing.

00:00 Welcome to Wayward Writers
00:32 Introducing Dr. Cristie Ritz King
02:55 Cristie's Journey into Mental Health
08:36 Writing with Sensitivity and Authenticity
10:18 Exploring Character Development and Mental Health
22:29 Realistic Influences of Mental Health on Characters
25:29 Balancing Personal and Professional Life in Mental Health Work
27:04 Balancing Self-Care as a Therapist
27:32 Finding Personal Escapes
28:16 Importance of Boundaries
30:20 Cultural Nuances in Mental Health
33:54 Ethical Considerations in Writing
37:54 Portraying Realistic Therapy Sessions
43:37 Therapist-Client Dynamics
47:53 Evolving Mental Health Field 

48:48 Connecting with Wonder Ink Wellness

​Cristie Ritz-King Website

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In this episode of Way-Word Writers, hosts Heather Cashman, Stephanie Bearce, and Nicki Jacobsmeyer speak with Naomi Kirsten, a seasoned freelance editor, creative consultant, and former Chronicle Books editor. Naomi shares her extensive experience in the publishing industry, discussing the importance of thinking like an editor, the role of compromise in the creative process, and key business considerations for authors and illustrators. The episode aims to empower writers and illustrators to balance their artistic vision with market realities, providing practical advice on navigating the publishing landscape, enhancing marketability, and engaging in effective marketing and promotion.

00:00 Introduction to Way-Word Writers
00:31 Meet Naomi Kirsten: A Publishing Industry Leader
03:48 Thinking Like an Editor: Why It Matters
06:36 The Role of Compromise in the Creative Process
12:49 Balancing Creative Freedom and Commercial Realities
16:34 Cultivating an Editorial Mindset
26:27 The Essence of Self-Actualization in Publishing
27:02 Navigating Success Beyond Sales and Awards
29:01 The Power of Compromise in Creative Vision
32:27 Balancing Business and Creativity in Publishing
34:25 Key Business Considerations for Authors and Illustrators
41:40 Effective Marketing and Promotion Strategies
45:17 Embracing the Joy of Sharing Your Work
48:07 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

​n​aomikirsten.com

You and Me, Me and You by Miguel Tanco

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In this episode of Way-Word Writers, hosts Heather Cashman, Stephanie ​B​earce, and Ni​cki Jacobsmeyer introduce children's book author and indie publisher Darcy Pattison. Darcy, who has written over 70 award-winning books​,​ with some translated into 10 languages, shares her journey from traditional publishing to becoming a successful indie publisher. Discussing her strategies, Darcy emphasizes marketing to schools, the importance of good writing, and working with illustrators and editors. She explains how she manages her business operations including finances, distribution through IngramSpark, and leveraging various platforms for maximum reach. Highlighting the importance of persistence and creativity in both writing and business, Darcy also provides insights into balancing her work-life and expanding her business model while continually evolving in her career.

00:00 Welcome to Way-Word Writers
00:29 Introducing Darcy Pattison
01:53 Darcy's Journey to Becoming an Author
02:49 Transition to Independent Publishing
06:08 The Art of Finding Niches
08:30 Illustration and Fact-Checking
13:00 Becoming an Entrepreneur
18:06 Balancing Creativity and Business
21:40 Grassroots Marketing Strategies
24:18 Navigating Distribution Challenges
28:11 Maximizing Sales Channels
31:04 The Importance of Writing Standards
33:24 Future of Indie Publishing
39:13 Upcoming Book Launch
40:33 Conclusion and Farewell

F​ind Darcy's website here!

B​ehance.net (the illustrator platform Darcy mentions)

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In this episode of Way-Word Writers, hosts Heather Cashman, Stephanie Bearce, and Nicki Jacobsmeyer dive into the topic of imposter syndrome. They define what imposter syndrome is, discuss the various types identified by Dr. Valerie Young, and explore how it affects writers. The hosts share personal experiences and offer advice on how to recognize and combat these feelings. Key points include the importance of community support, the role of social media, and the notion that you are a writer as long as you write—not just when you're published. They emphasize the value of your unique voice and stress the importance of moving forward positively despite doubts.

00:00 Introduction to Way-Word Writers
00:35 Understanding Imposter Syndrome
02:01 Types of Imposter Syndrome
03:34 Personal Experiences with Imposter Syndrome
04:17 Imposter Syndrome in the Publishing Industry
07:41 The Role of Social Media
15:53 Combating Imposter Syndrome
19:02 The Value of Writing
29:47 Final Thoughts and Encouragement

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In this episode of Way-Word Writers, senior literary agent Heather Cashman and authors and writing coaches Stephanie Bearce and Nicki Jacobsmeyer chat with Anna Orenstein-Cardona, a children's author and financial educator. They discuss the financial realities of the publishing industry, from advances to royalties, and offer valuable advice on diversifying income streams through the concept of creatorpreneurship. Anna shares her own strategies and insights on balancing creativity with financial health, and the importance of recognizing one's worth as a creator. Learn how to navigate the economic aspects of being a writer, from negotiating contracts to leveraging extra skills for additional income.

00:00 Welcome to Way-Word Writers
00:31 Introducing Anna Orenstein Cardona
02:55 Anna's Creative Journey
06:29 Financial Realities in Publishing
09:30 Statistics and Industry Disparities
23:16 Challenges and Strategies for Authors
31:12 Embracing Creative Entrepreneurship
33:19 Leveraging Digital Platforms for Marketing
33:47 Financial Well-being for Creatives
34:15 Diversifying Revenue Streams
36:26 The Reality of Full-time Creative Work
38:55 Creative Income Sources and Future Goals
47:47 Examples of Successful Creatives
55:41 Valuing Your Work and Overcoming Guilt
59:09 Final Thoughts and Encouragement

Anna created a brief guide for you!

The Writers & Illustrators Guide to Creatorpreneurship

Find Anna on her website here!

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In this episode of Way-Word Writers, hosts Heather Cashman, Stephanie Bearce, and Nicki Jacobsmeyer chat with Kathleen Sweeney, COO of Book Brush, about the essential tools and strategies for authors to boost their book marketing efforts. Kathleen provides insights into how authors can use Book Brush’s platform to create visually appealing and effective marketing graphics, the importance of branding, and engaging with readers on social media. They also cover useful tips for using hashtags, managing social media presence, and integrating personal and professional lives online. Key recommendations include trying out trope graphics, staying consistent with branding elements such as fonts and colors, and the benefits of utilizing resources like Book Brush for DIY and full-service marketing needs.

00:00 Introduction to Way-word Writers
00:31 Meet Kathleen Sweeney from BookBrush
01:44 What is BookBrush?
03:15 Free and Paid Plans on BookBrush
05:21 Amazon A+ Content for Authors
08:38 Social Media Strategies for Authors
10:09 The Power of Hashtags
16:04 Using QR Codes Effectively
22:20 Branding Yourself as an Author
26:02 Exploring Fonts for Different Genres
26:34 Balancing Book Promotion and Content
28:23 Engaging with Your Audience
31:19 Effective Use of Social Media Platforms
43:24 Managing Multiple Author Brands
46:06 Current Trends and Common Mistakes
48:04 Building a Strong Social Media Presence
49:52 Conclusion and Final Thoughts 

Genre Font Pairings For Graphics and Book Covers

​Typography Tips for Graphics and Book Covers