Click Here to ask your book writing and publishing questions!

These days, there's more than just one path to getting a book published. 

From traditional publishing to hybrid publishing to self-publishing, every aspiring author has an opportunity to have her voice heard and to make an impact on readers. 

For as many people who hail one approach, there are just as many who eschew it. 

To be sure, there are pros and cons to each. The key is knowing what those pros and cons are so you can make the best decision for your book project (and the decision may very well change from book to book!).

In this episode of the Write the Damn Book Already podcast, you'll gain a more thorough understanding of traditional, hybrid/vanity, and self-publishing.

And while I believe each model has its place, there's one I consistently advise authors to stay (far) away from. I've never heard of an experience with this publishing model ending well. 

 

Resources Mentioned

25 Days of Bold Moves (free challenge)

Episode with Neely Alexander, author of Love Buzz

Episode with Jamie Varon, author of Main Character Energy

Podcast Ep 35: I want to write a book, but where do I start?

Finn-Phyllis Press - hybrid publishing house

 

Ways We Can Work Together on Your Book! Book Outlines Made Simple (workshop)

Through this pay-what-you-can on--demand workshop, you'll discover the 5 components of all bestselling books, learn how to zero in on your core message, and get access to the outlining spreadsheet I've used to write six books (and help countless authors write theirs) so you can masterfully organize your thoughts, perspectives, and insights. 

Learn more >>

 

Write the Damn Book Already! (memoir/nonfiction writing program)

A program for writing powerful nonfiction or memoir that readers can't put down. it's time to share your message, tell your story, and make your impact. 

Learn more >>

 

The Book Writers Collective (monthly membership)

The Book Writers Collective provides twice monthly coaching/guidance calls and co-writing sessions. It’s a monthly membership that you can cancel anytime (or upgrade into Write the Damn Book Already to get access to the online book writing trainings).

Learn more >>

 

🧭 BACK COVER BLUEPRINT

Get back cover templates for nonfiction, memoir, and fiction; real-world examples; a polishing checklist; and a guide for turning it into an optimized online description that attracts the right readers. 

🔗 https://www.publishaprofitablebook.com/blueprint

Looking for hidden gems, date night spots, and staycations you didn't know you needed? Find your next adventure at TheBestoftheSouthwest.com and follow along on Instagram at @thebestofthesouthwest.

*episode sponsor

WANT TO SELL MORE BOOKS (WITHOUT THE SELF-PROMO CRINGE)?

The Author Visibility Bundle gives you 200+ done-for-you email templates, social media graphics, and other book promo tools designed to help authors build buzz and drive sales, without feeling pushy. 

👉  PublishAProfitableBook.com/bookvisibility

✍️ 33-DAY BOOK WRITING BOOTCAMP

You've Been Thinking About This Book Forever. So let's get it written (for real this time). 

👉 https://www.publishaprofitablebook/writethebook

Support the show

******

Write the Damn Book Already is a weekly podcast featuring interviews with authors as well as updates and insights on writing craft and the publishing industry. 

Available wherever podcasts are available:
Apple Podcasts
Spotify
YouTube

Let's Connect!
Instagram
Website

Email the show: elizabeth [at] elizabethlyons [dot] com

The podcast is a proud affiliate partner of Bookshop, working to support local, independent bookstores.

To see all the ways we can work together to get your book written and published, visit publishaprofitablebook.com/work-with-elizabeth

Click Here to ask your book writing and publishing questions!

Jamie Varon is an author, designer, digital course creator, and creative consultant living in Calabasas, CA. Her first nonfiction book, Radically Content, was published April 12th, 2022 with Quarto Books. 

Her debut novel, Main Character Energy, (which she wrote in an hour a day, because no, you don't have to devote your entire life to it!) will be published fall 2023 with HarperCollins’ imprint, Park Row.

 

In Episode 49 of the Write the Damn Book Already podcast, we discussed: 

• How writing a "Novel Zero" can be a game-changer for nonfiction writers.

• The daunting task of transitioning from nonfiction to fiction writing and why it can feel incredibly challenging, even for experienced writers.

• The subjective nature of books and the unique challenges authors face in getting their works written and published.

• Jamie's experience utilizing a book writing coach to overcome obstacles and complete her novel.

• Jamie's unconventional outlining practice and why it differs from traditional methods.

• Tips on finding a great editor who can truly enhance your writing journey.

• What writers can learn from musicians when it comes to the book-writing process.

 

CONNECT WITH JAMIE

Website: jamievaron.com

Radically Content: https://amzn.to/44Vsi3Z

 Main Character Energy: https://amzn.to/3DBSKUr

Instagram: instagram.com/jamievaron

Facebook: facebook.com/jamievaron

Twitter: twitter.com/jamievaron 

 

RESOURCES MENTIONED

Love Buzz by Neely Tubati Alexander

 

Ways We Can Work Together on Your Book! 25 Days of Bold Moves (free challenge)

Get instant access to my 25 TOP TIPS to finish your book, boost book sales, and increase your reach as an author.

Sign up here >>

 

Book Outlines Made Simple workshop

Through this pay-what-you-can on--demand workshop, you'll discover the 5 components of all bestselling books, learn how to zero in on your core message, and get access to the outlining spreadsheet I've used to write six books (and help countless authors write theirs) so you can masterfully organize your thoughts, perspectives, and insights. 

Learn more >>

 

Write the Damn Book Already!

🧭 BACK COVER BLUEPRINT

Get back cover templates for nonfiction, memoir, and fiction; real-world examples; a polishing checklist; and a guide for turning it into an optimized online description that attracts the right readers. 

🔗 https://www.publishaprofitablebook.com/blueprint

Looking for hidden gems, date night spots, and staycations you didn't know you needed? Find your next adventure at TheBestoftheSouthwest.com and follow along on Instagram at @thebestofthesouthwest.

*episode sponsor

WANT TO SELL MORE BOOKS (WITHOUT THE SELF-PROMO CRINGE)?

The Author Visibility Bundle gives you 200+ done-for-you email templates, social media graphics, and other book promo tools designed to help authors build buzz and drive sales, without feeling pushy. 

👉  PublishAProfitableBook.com/bookvisibility

✍️ 33-DAY BOOK WRITING BOOTCAMP

You've Been Thinking About This Book Forever. So let's get it written (for real this time). 

👉 https://www.publishaprofitablebook/writethebook

Support the show

******

Write the Damn Book Already is a weekly podcast featuring interviews with authors as well as updates and insights on writing craft and the publishing industry. 

Available wherever podcasts are available:
Apple Podcasts
Spotify
YouTube

Let's Connect!
Instagram
Website

Email the show: elizabeth [at] elizabethlyons [dot] com

The podcast is a proud affiliate partner of Bookshop, working to support local, independent bookstores.

To see all the ways we can work together to get your book written and published, visit publishaprofitablebook.com/work-with-elizabeth

Click Here to ask your book writing and publishing questions!

Remember Kara Forney’s @BoyMomsBook reel that got 4 million+ views, brought in 13,000+ followers, and sold 70+ books in the first 6 days?

We said we didn’t know how she did it. And we don’t 100% know. Not to the extent that we can now sell you on “the perfect formula to reach IG and life stardom in 27 seconds.”

Yes, it seemed random, and one certainly never knows what will “hit.”

A viral reel is rarely the singular key to "success." But even though Kara's reel wasn't necessarily "intentionally strategic" (meaning that she didn't spend hours concocting the perfect video, verbiage, caption, and hashtags), we did identify four key takeaways EVERY author can benefit from.  

GET TO KNOW YOUR AUDIENCE

It’s not just about getting people to follow YOU. You need to know what hooks the types of people you want to attract! 

Boy Moms: Collective Tales of Mothers and Sons launched a year ago. Since then, Kara has been keeping tabs on where her ideal audience is. In other words, who are other Boy Moms are following, and what kinds of posts get traction with that audience?

Put simply, she set out to understand the “Instagram language” of her audience.

She determined the answer to be short, funny, repurposed posts, so that's what she posts a lot of.

 

“When that particular video clip came across my feed,” she told me, “I absolutely recognized I could do something with it ‘my’ segment of the Boy Mom audience would relate to. Did I think it would get 3.5 million views? Definitely not. But I knew that, on some level, Boy Moms would think it was funny.”

 STAY IN YOUR LANE

Kara isn’t a “boy mom coach.” She doesn’t help people become better boy moms. Her book isn’t directive or prescriptive in any way, nor is it meant to be.

She’s an extremely successful corporate consultant. (Remember The Bump? She founded it. It was later acquired by The Knot.)

Her book isn’t about how to be a better boy mom. It’s not filled with explicit tips on how to raise boys. It’s a collection of essays written by boy moms about the heartwarming, hilarious, idiotic things boys do as they’re unknowingly teaching us about life and about ourselves.

Knowing that her target audience isn’t looking to her for advice or guidance but simply the kind of content that makes you declare, “That’s so true!” while laughing out loud at the relatability, or clutch your heart while holding back tears, she knows to focus on creating posts that attract Boy Moms who love that.

They’re the exact moms most likely to purchase her book.

 

DON’T DISAPPEAR

Once this post “hit” and she watched her follower count go through the roof (compared to what it was), she knew she couldn’t take her foot off the gas. Did this mean pulling an all-nighter creating oodles of content? Of course not. But now that she had fresh eyeballs who not only liked the reel but followed her as a result, she wanted to be sure she was serving them.

With similar-toned posts (and a quick post that showcased her book so new followers know she has one and older followers are reminded), repurposing other funny content to make it applicable to moms of boys, she continues to speak to and serve this audience exactly what they followed her for to begin with. Which is why the majority of them will stick around!

If they show up as your new foll

🧭 BACK COVER BLUEPRINT

Get back cover templates for nonfiction, memoir, and fiction; real-world examples; a polishing checklist; and a guide for turning it into an optimized online description that attracts the right readers. 

🔗 https://www.publishaprofitablebook.com/blueprint

✍️ 33-DAY BOOK WRITING BOOTCAMP

You've Been Thinking About This Book Forever. So let's get it written (for real this time). 

👉 https://www.publishaprofitablebook/writethebook

Support the show

******

Write the Damn Book Already is a weekly podcast featuring interviews with authors as well as updates and insights on writing craft and the publishing industry. 

Available wherever podcasts are available:
Apple Podcasts
Spotify
YouTube

Let's Connect!
Instagram
Website

Email the show: elizabeth [at] elizabethlyons [dot] com

The podcast is a proud affiliate partner of Bookshop, working to support local, independent bookstores.

To see all the ways we can work together to get your book written and published, visit publishaprofitablebook.com/work-with-elizabeth

Click Here to ask your book writing and publishing questions!

In this episode of the Write the Damn Book Already podcast, I had the pleasure of talking with Lauren Eckhardt, author and founder of Burning Soul Collective and Burning Soul Press. We discussed the changing landscape of the publishing industry, the importance of marketing your book in a way that feels authentic, and the therapeutic aspect of book writing.

Lauren shared her insights on different publishing opportunities and paradigms, emphasizing the need to align your values with your chosen approach. She also debunked the idea of being published for free and provided guidance on self- and hybrid publishing, encouraging authors to be more curious about the hidden value of paying someone else to publish their work.

We also discussed how Lauren helps authors overcome imposter syndrome and shared her own strategies for battling "writer's block" and lack of inspiration.

Finally, we explored a new perspective on book launches, an alternative to the traditional "finish line" mentality. Overall, the conversation was filled with valuable insights and practical advice for both aspiring and established authors.

 

ABOUT LAUREN

Lauren is an award-winning and best-selling author and CEO, ghostwriter, and book coach at Burning Soul Press. She’s also the mama to two little guys who are her why that drives her every day. She’s an advocate for determined and passionate writers who listen to their soul’s calling and the number one cheerleader for our authors.  

 

CONNECT WITH LAUREN

Coaching Website: BurningSoulCollective.com

Author website: authorlaureneckhardt.com

Instagram: @authorlaureneckhardt and @burningsoulcollective

 

ELIZABETH'S CORE WRITING & PUBLISHING PROGRAMSBOOK WRITING MADE SIMPLE

A program for writing powerful, thought-provoking nonfiction or memoir so you can grow your business or simply share your story.

This is for you if you:

✍️ Want to write a powerful, top-quality book, making sure you're avoiding common (and unnecessary) mistakes along the way 

✍️ Crave the support of a solid book-writing process as well as knowledgeable guidance and compassionate ass-kicking (when necessary) when the adventure feels “sticky” and you begin feeling unsure of what you’re doing, why you started, or whether it’s going to be worth it (hint: it absolutely will)

✍️ Desire to be part of a community of authors who provide you with accountability, motivation, and support (not to mention a spot-on meme here and there!)

and

✍️ 2x/month group coaching/support/guidance sessions with Elizabeth to help you navigate roadblocks (both tactical and mindset-based) so you can get to the finish line of writing a book you're immensely proud of

Learn more >> 

 

PUBLISH A PROFITABLE BOOK

A complete step-by-step program to help you self-publish a book that's indistinguishable in quality from a New York Times bestseller.

This is for you if you

🧭 BACK COVER BLUEPRINT

Get back cover templates for nonfiction, memoir, and fiction; real-world examples; a polishing checklist; and a guide for turning it into an optimized online description that attracts the right readers. 

🔗 https://www.publishaprofitablebook.com/blueprint

Looking for hidden gems, date night spots, and staycations you didn't know you needed? Find your next adventure at TheBestoftheSouthwest.com and follow along on Instagram at @thebestofthesouthwest.

*episode sponsor

WANT TO SELL MORE BOOKS (WITHOUT THE SELF-PROMO CRINGE)?

The Author Visibility Bundle gives you 200+ done-for-you email templates, social media graphics, and other book promo tools designed to help authors build buzz and drive sales, without feeling pushy. 

👉  PublishAProfitableBook.com/bookvisibility

✍️ 33-DAY BOOK WRITING BOOTCAMP

You've Been Thinking About This Book Forever. So let's get it written (for real this time). 

👉 https://www.publishaprofitablebook/writethebook

Support the show

******

Write the Damn Book Already is a weekly podcast featuring interviews with authors as well as updates and insights on writing craft and the publishing industry. 

Available wherever podcasts are available:
Apple Podcasts
Spotify
YouTube

Let's Connect!
Instagram
Website

Email the show: elizabeth [at] elizabethlyons [dot] com

The podcast is a proud affiliate partner of Bookshop, working to support local, independent bookstores.

To see all the ways we can work together to get your book written and published, visit publishaprofitablebook.com/work-with-elizabeth

Click Here to ask your book writing and publishing questions!

Click here to sign up for the Social Media for Authors + Writers Workshop (July 20, replay will be sent if you can't attend live!) 

*******

When it comes to book writing, "I'm waiting for inspiration/motivation" is often code for "I have no idea where this is going and it scares the sh*t out of me so I'll figure it out another day." 

But there are ways around (read: through) this challenge. 

In today's episode, I offer some of my favorite tips so that you can get out of "waiting" and into writing!

***

ELIZABETH'S CORE WRITING & PUBLISHING PROGRAMSBOOK WRITING MADE SIMPLE

A program for writing powerful, thought-provoking nonfiction or memoir so you can grow your business or simply share your story.

This is for you if you:

✍️ Want to write a powerful, top-quality book, making sure you're avoiding common (and unnecessary) mistakes along the way 

✍️ Crave the support of a proven book-writing process as well as knowledgeable guidance and compassionate ass-kicking (when necessary) when the adventure feels “sticky” and you begin feeling unsure of what you’re doing, why you started, or whether it’s going to be worth it (hint: it absolutely will)

✍️ Desire to be part of a community of authors who provide you with accountability, motivation, and support (not to mention a spot-on meme here and there!)

and

✍️ 2x/month group coaching /support/guidance sessions with Elizabeth to help you navigate roadblocks (both tactical and mindset-based) so you can get to the finish line of writing a book you're immensely proud of

Learn more >> 

 

PUBLISH A PROFITABLE BOOK

A complete step-by-step program to help you self-publish a book that's indistinguishable in quality from a New York Times bestseller.

This is for you if you:

📚 Are ready to publish your book on your terms and your timeline

📚 Want to retain all rights, creative control, and profits so you can start building your career as an author

📚 Want 2x/month coaching support from a 6x author to guide you through those second-guessing moments and areas of confusion (we all have them!)

Learn More >> 

 

FROM MANUSCRIPT TO MARKET

A complete step-by-step program to help you launch (or re-launch) your book so you can sell more copies while building a tribe of loyal, raving readers

This is for you if you:

🚀 Are getting ready to publish (or have already published) and think, "Book marketing isn't my area of expertise."

🚀 Want to get your book in the hands of as many people as possible without feeling uber salesy

🚀 Like having easy-to-customize templates and graphics so you don't spend time spinning when it comes to what to say or how to post on social media with ease.

From Manuscript to Market details the complete 12-day book launch strategy that I use to launch all of my books and that most Finn-Phyllis Press authors use to launch theirs—without overwhelm, overthinking, or unnecessary breakdowns!

🧭 BACK COVER BLUEPRINT

Get back cover templates for nonfiction, memoir, and fiction; real-world examples; a polishing checklist; and a guide for turning it into an optimized online description that attracts the right readers. 

🔗 https://www.publishaprofitablebook.com/blueprint

✍️ 33-DAY BOOK WRITING BOOTCAMP

You've Been Thinking About This Book Forever. So let's get it written (for real this time). 

👉 https://www.publishaprofitablebook/writethebook

Support the show

******

Write the Damn Book Already is a weekly podcast featuring interviews with authors as well as updates and insights on writing craft and the publishing industry. 

Available wherever podcasts are available:
Apple Podcasts
Spotify
YouTube

Let's Connect!
Instagram
Website

Email the show: elizabeth [at] elizabethlyons [dot] com

The podcast is a proud affiliate partner of Bookshop, working to support local, independent bookstores.

To see all the ways we can work together to get your book written and published, visit publishaprofitablebook.com/work-with-elizabeth

Click Here to ask your book writing and publishing questions!

"Sometimes, the writing comes easy because we have been thinking about it for so long. It has taken years come to fruition, but it is already there. We are writing to explore both what we know and what we don’t know."

-Rick Rubin

Sometimes, content flows easily.

Sometimes, it’s like pulling a rock out of solid concrete with your bare fingers.

In this episode of the Write the Damn Book Already podcast, you'll discover often-overlooked reasons for why the writing sometimes feels "hard" (reasons that will have you both curious and eager to get your butt back in the chair!).

***

READY TO GET YOUR BOOK OUTLINED?

Consider enrolling in my pay-what-you-can Book Outlines Made Simple workshop!

 

***

MORE OF ELIZABETH'S WRITING & PUBLISHING PROGRAMS BOOK WRITING MADE SIMPLE

A program for writing powerful, thought-provoking nonfiction or memoir so you can grow your business or simply share your story.

This is for you if you:

✍️ Want to write a powerful, top-quality book, making sure you're avoiding common (and unnecessary) mistakes along the way 

✍️ Crave the support of a proven book-writing process as well as knowledgeable guidance and compassionate ass-kicking (when necessary) when the adventure feels “sticky” and you begin feeling unsure of what you’re doing, why you started, or whether it’s going to be worth it (hint: it absolutely will)

✍️ Desire to be part of a community of authors who provide you with accountability, motivation, and support (not to mention a spot-on meme here and there!)

and

✍️ 2x/month group coaching /support/guidance sessions with Elizabeth to help you navigate roadblocks (both tactical and mindset-based) so you can get to the finish line of writing a book you're immensely proud of

Learn more >> 

 

 PUBLISH A PROFITABLE BOOK

A complete step-by-step program to help you self-publish a book that's indistinguishable in quality from a New York Times bestseller.

This is for you if you:

📚 Are ready to publish your book on your terms and your timeline

📚 Want to retain all rights, creative control, and profits so you can start building your career as an author

📚 Want 2x/month coaching support from a 6x author to guide you through those second-guessing moments and areas of confusion (we all have them!)

Learn More >> 

 

FROM MANUSCRIPT TO MARKET

A complete step-by-step program to help you launch (or re-launch) your book so you can sell more copies while building a tribe of loyal, raving readers

This is for you if you:

🚀 Are getting ready to publish (or have already published) and think, "Book marketing isn't my area of expertise."

🚀 Want to get your book in the hands of as many people as possible without feeling uber salesy

🚀 Like having easy-to-customize templates and graphics so you don't spend time spinning when it comes to what to say or how to post on socia

🧭 BACK COVER BLUEPRINT

Get back cover templates for nonfiction, memoir, and fiction; real-world examples; a polishing checklist; and a guide for turning it into an optimized online description that attracts the right readers. 

🔗 https://www.publishaprofitablebook.com/blueprint

✍️ 33-DAY BOOK WRITING BOOTCAMP

You've Been Thinking About This Book Forever. So let's get it written (for real this time). 

👉 https://www.publishaprofitablebook/writethebook

Support the show

******

Write the Damn Book Already is a weekly podcast featuring interviews with authors as well as updates and insights on writing craft and the publishing industry. 

Available wherever podcasts are available:
Apple Podcasts
Spotify
YouTube

Let's Connect!
Instagram
Website

Email the show: elizabeth [at] elizabethlyons [dot] com

The podcast is a proud affiliate partner of Bookshop, working to support local, independent bookstores.

To see all the ways we can work together to get your book written and published, visit publishaprofitablebook.com/work-with-elizabeth

Click Here to ask your book writing and publishing questions!

Few people (in my age bracket, anyway) aren't familiar with the perennial bestseller, Tuesdays with Morrie. Published in 2002, the book highlights the lessons passed down from Morrie Schwartz (a college professor) to his student, Mitch Albom.

Morrie passed away before the book was released (before a word of it was written, in fact). And years after his death, Rob discovered a manuscript in the drawer of his father's desk.

That manuscript would become The Wisdom of Morrie: Living and Aging Creatively and Joyfully, released April 18, 2023 (Blackstone Publishing). 

On this episode of the Write the Damn Book Already podcast, Rob and I talked about his discovery of the manuscript, and the decision for him to edit it and seek a publisher who would help continue to spread Morrie's timeless insights. 

 

INTERVIEW HIGHLIGHTS

• How Rob discovered the manuscript (and the surprising condition it was in)
• How "easy" it was to find an agent and then publisher for the book given the success of Tuesdays with Morrie (this will surprise you)
• What Rob most appreciates about his publisher (it's not one of the Big 5!)
• Why “waiting” so many years between discovery and publication might have hurt (and, more importantly, might have helped!) 

 

ABOUT ROB SCHWARTZ

Rob Schwartz is a writer, producer, and entrepreneur. His work has appeared in Time, Newsweek, Variety, The Hollywood Reporter, Interview and Melody Maker, among many others.

He was a script editor at NHK World TV in Japan for fourteen years and has been an Asia Correspondent for Billboard magazine since 2008. In 2005 he founded the electro-rock crossover label Dynastic Records in Japan.

Rob produces feature films, including Putty Hill (2010) and Bernard and Huey (2017); actively invests in tech-based startups; and is currently a partner in the virtual concert-creation platform Moshpit (www.Moshpit.Live). Rob is one of the producers of Onetopia, a benefit festival for mental health slated for May, 2024 (onetopia.com)

 

CONNECT WITH ROB

Website: WisdomOfMorrie.com

Upcoming Benefit Music Festival: Onetopia.com

Rob’s Instagram: @rob_schwa

Purchase The Wisdom of Morrie

 

MORE ABOUT ELIZABETH'S WRITING & PUBLISHING PROGRAMS

Follow Elizabeth on Instagram: @elizabethlyonsauthor

All Programs: Elizabeth's book writing, publishing, and marketing programs & resources 

🧭 BACK COVER BLUEPRINT

Get back cover templates for nonfiction, memoir, and fiction; real-world examples; a polishing checklist; and a guide for turning it into an optimized online description that attracts the right readers. 

🔗 https://www.publishaprofitablebook.com/blueprint

Looking for hidden gems, date night spots, and staycations you didn't know you needed? Find your next adventure at TheBestoftheSouthwest.com and follow along on Instagram at @thebestofthesouthwest.

*episode sponsor

WANT TO SELL MORE BOOKS (WITHOUT THE SELF-PROMO CRINGE)?

The Author Visibility Bundle gives you 200+ done-for-you email templates, social media graphics, and other book promo tools designed to help authors build buzz and drive sales, without feeling pushy. 

👉  PublishAProfitableBook.com/bookvisibility

✍️ 33-DAY BOOK WRITING BOOTCAMP

You've Been Thinking About This Book Forever. So let's get it written (for real this time). 

👉 https://www.publishaprofitablebook/writethebook

Support the show

******

Write the Damn Book Already is a weekly podcast featuring interviews with authors as well as updates and insights on writing craft and the publishing industry. 

Available wherever podcasts are available:
Apple Podcasts
Spotify
YouTube

Let's Connect!
Instagram
Website

Email the show: elizabeth [at] elizabethlyons [dot] com

The podcast is a proud affiliate partner of Bookshop, working to support local, independent bookstores.

To see all the ways we can work together to get your book written and published, visit publishaprofitablebook.com/work-with-elizabeth

Click Here to ask your book writing and publishing questions!

Donna Norman-Carbone's debut novel, All That is Sacred, released on April 11, 2023 (Red Adept Publishing). 

In this episode of the Write the Damn Book Already podcast, we discussed her journey to writing and publishing the novel, which was inspired by true events. 

 

INTERVIEW HIGHLIGHTS

• How Donna got started writing, and the story and characters who inspired her debut novel
• Donna's process of writing through both grief AND difficult conversations to sort through her feelings and thoughts (as a fellow emotional being, this made my ears perk up!)
• How long the book ended up taking to write and be published given all the other things going on in her life
• The details of her unique publishing journey, which started with querying agents and ended with her querying her publisher directly (which isn’t common)
• One of her favorite offerings provided by her publishing house (I think every publishing house should have this for their authors!)
• Within the editing process, a suggestion was made to go from 5 POVs (points of view) to 1 and to write an entirely new first chapter. We talked about how she responded and worked with those suggestions without feeling like she was starting all over.
• A perspective-shifting way to think about where you are in the book-writing process when you send your book to the editor (hint: you’re NOT 95% to the finish line)
• What Donna is most excited about when it comes to promotion (as someone who doesn’t like to speak in front of others, even though she’s a teacher!)

 

ABOUT DONNA

Donna Norman-Carbone’s debut, All That is Sacred, a women’s fiction released on April 11, 2023, is published by Red Adept Publishing. A member of the WFWA and CAPA and a tour guide for Bookish Road Trip, Donna also teaches English in CT where she resides with her husband and family. She enjoys reading and traveling.

 

AUTHORS REFERENCED IN EPISODE 

Hope Gibbs, author of Where the Grass Grows Blue

Dr. Tanmeet Sethi, author of Joy is My Justice

 

CONNECT WITH DONNA

www.donnanormancarbone.com

Instagram: @donnanormancarbone

Facebook: @dncarboneauthor

TikTok: @dcarbs727author

Twitter: @dcarbs727author

Book: Purchase a copy of All That is Sacred

 

 

 

🧭 BACK COVER BLUEPRINT

Get back cover templates for nonfiction, memoir, and fiction; real-world examples; a polishing checklist; and a guide for turning it into an optimized online description that attracts the right readers. 

🔗 https://www.publishaprofitablebook.com/blueprint

Looking for hidden gems, date night spots, and staycations you didn't know you needed? Find your next adventure at TheBestoftheSouthwest.com and follow along on Instagram at @thebestofthesouthwest.

*episode sponsor

✍️ 33-DAY BOOK WRITING BOOTCAMP

You've Been Thinking About This Book Forever. So let's get it written (for real this time). 

👉 https://www.publishaprofitablebook/writethebook

Support the show

******

Write the Damn Book Already is a weekly podcast featuring interviews with authors as well as updates and insights on writing craft and the publishing industry. 

Available wherever podcasts are available:
Apple Podcasts
Spotify
YouTube

Let's Connect!
Instagram
Website

Email the show: elizabeth [at] elizabethlyons [dot] com

The podcast is a proud affiliate partner of Bookshop, working to support local, independent bookstores.

To see all the ways we can work together to get your book written and published, visit publishaprofitablebook.com/work-with-elizabeth

Click Here to ask your book writing and publishing questions!

Jill Krzyzanowicz writes under the pen name Margo Reilly, which I found fascinating since her first book, When the Apple Falls Far from the Tree, is memoir.

Many people wonder whether they can (or should) write memoir under a pen name, and in all cases (up until speaking with Jill), I advised against it for a variety of reasons that Jill and I spoke about.

But Jill's rationale made perfect sense, and it provides a great additional perspective for anyone considering the same approach. 

In this episode of the Write the Damn Book Already podcast, Jill and I had a wonderful time chatting about the book writing, publishing, and marketing processes, as well as her plans for a second book.

 

EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS

• Why pseudonyms (pen names) can be a real problem when you’re writing memoir, and why Jill chose to use one (plus, her publisher’s surprising direction on her choice of a pen name)
• The conversation with her friend, whose words, “This conversation will help so many more people than it will hurt” moved her to action
• How she (successfully) promotes a book that’s written under a pseudonym
• Jill's fears about whether anyone would be angry after reading her book (and whether anyone did get mad angry)
• How Jill started writing (even though she fell into the “I’m not a writer” club), and why she encourages everyone to write through their journey—even if they aren't writing a book
• How to get out of the “I’m writing a book” mindset to get into the greatest, juiciest details and epiphanies

  

ABOUT JILL KRZYZANOWICZ (MARGO REILLY)

After 20+ years in public education, Jill has decided to use her masters degree and teaching experience to become a personal empowerment mentor. Her newly published book entitled, When the Apple Fall Far from the Tree, outlines a lifetime of adversity and the tools she used to make it to the other side.

From growing up chaotic in a house of violence, to cancer recovery, multiple weight loss surgeries, and a newly sober lifestyle, Jill feels compelled to share the “gifts” she has discovered along her path of personal growth.

She is the creator of the blog site justbeingjill.com and also writes under the pen name Margo Reilly. Jill has recently completed a life coach course and soon hopes to be assisting others with their own transformational journeys. She is currently working on her second memoir, When You Shake the Family Tree, a DNA discovery story.

 

CONNECT WITH JILL

Website:  justbeingjill.com 

Instagram: @justbeingjill

Order a copy of When the Apple Falls Far From the Tree

 

ARTISTS MENTIONED

Mixed Media Artist: Katie Goldstone

Illustrator: Henry Lyons

 

MORE ABOUT ELIZABETH'S WRITING & PUBLISHING PROGRAMS

Follow Elizabeth on Instagram: 

🧭 BACK COVER BLUEPRINT

Get back cover templates for nonfiction, memoir, and fiction; real-world examples; a polishing checklist; and a guide for turning it into an optimized online description that attracts the right readers. 

🔗 https://www.publishaprofitablebook.com/blueprint

Looking for hidden gems, date night spots, and staycations you didn't know you needed? Find your next adventure at TheBestoftheSouthwest.com and follow along on Instagram at @thebestofthesouthwest.

*episode sponsor

WANT TO SELL MORE BOOKS (WITHOUT THE SELF-PROMO CRINGE)?

The Author Visibility Bundle gives you 200+ done-for-you email templates, social media graphics, and other book promo tools designed to help authors build buzz and drive sales, without feeling pushy. 

👉  PublishAProfitableBook.com/bookvisibility

✍️ 33-DAY BOOK WRITING BOOTCAMP

You've Been Thinking About This Book Forever. So let's get it written (for real this time). 

👉 https://www.publishaprofitablebook/writethebook

Support the show

******

Write the Damn Book Already is a weekly podcast featuring interviews with authors as well as updates and insights on writing craft and the publishing industry. 

Available wherever podcasts are available:
Apple Podcasts
Spotify
YouTube

Let's Connect!
Instagram
Website

Email the show: elizabeth [at] elizabethlyons [dot] com

The podcast is a proud affiliate partner of Bookshop, working to support local, independent bookstores.

To see all the ways we can work together to get your book written and published, visit publishaprofitablebook.com/work-with-elizabeth

Click Here to ask your book writing and publishing questions!

When people talk about selling 867,386 books (in a week), it sounds good. It's also probably a lie; most authors intent on making an impact on their readers, whether through entertainment, education, insights, or all three, have no idea what the numbers really are. That's not their focus.

What is their focus is the ONE person who needs their message and will be so grateful to have it in their life.

(And if one person will love it, two will. Twenty will. 1000 will. We start with one.)

In this episode of the Write the Damn Book Already podcast, Cara Sapida and I chatted about her book, Not the Breast Year of My Life (which, as of this posting, already has 66 5-star reviews on Amazon). 

 INTERVIEW HIGHLIGHTS

• What compelled Cara to write a book on a topic that’s quite saturated in the book world
• How, when initially blogging about her breast cancer diagnosis and experience, she filtered out comments that didn’t serve her
• What someone in the publishing community said to her early on about her book that could have kept it off the market forever (and not in of the hands of at least 1,000 individuals who are already so grateful for it!)
• Her thoughts, as an ambivert (part introvert, part extrovert), on having a book signing versus a book reading
• The heavily misunderstood commercialization of pink “stuff” in support of breast cancer (and how people can TRULY help breast cancer patients and medical research)
• How Cara handled naysayers when it came to self-publishing (and her advice to others considering that path)
• Plus, the book she took with her to every treatment 

 

ABOUT CARA SAPIDA

Cara Sapida is an award-winning journalist for WPXI-TV, the NBC affiliate in Pittsburgh.  A mother of two, Cara navigated a stage two triple-negative breast cancer diagnosis amidst the chaos of the 2020 global pandemic and a personal journey through divorce.

With a deep-rooted passion for writing dating back to the second grade, Cara loves crafting compelling stories. Her debut book, Not the Breast Year of My Life, is a captivating and heartfelt memoir born from personal experiences and overcoming hardships. In addition to her journalistic achievements, Cara has also showcased her talent in the culinary world as a finalist in the prestigious Pillsbury Bake-Off. 

 

CONNECT WITH CARA

https://www.facebook.com/CaraSapida

https://www.instagram.com/carasapida

Purchase a copy of Not the Breast Year of My Life

 

MORE ABOUT ELIZABETH'S PROGRAMS

Follow Elizabeth on Instagram: @elizabethlyonsauthor

Elizabeth's book writing, publishing, and marketing programs and resources 

🧭 BACK COVER BLUEPRINT

Get back cover templates for nonfiction, memoir, and fiction; real-world examples; a polishing checklist; and a guide for turning it into an optimized online description that attracts the right readers. 

🔗 https://www.publishaprofitablebook.com/blueprint

Looking for hidden gems, date night spots, and staycations you didn't know you needed? Find your next adventure at TheBestoftheSouthwest.com and follow along on Instagram at @thebestofthesouthwest.

*episode sponsor

WANT TO SELL MORE BOOKS (WITHOUT THE SELF-PROMO CRINGE)?

The Author Visibility Bundle gives you 200+ done-for-you email templates, social media graphics, and other book promo tools designed to help authors build buzz and drive sales, without feeling pushy. 

👉  PublishAProfitableBook.com/bookvisibility

✍️ 33-DAY BOOK WRITING BOOTCAMP

You've Been Thinking About This Book Forever. So let's get it written (for real this time). 

👉 https://www.publishaprofitablebook/writethebook

Support the show

******

Write the Damn Book Already is a weekly podcast featuring interviews with authors as well as updates and insights on writing craft and the publishing industry. 

Available wherever podcasts are available:
Apple Podcasts
Spotify
YouTube

Let's Connect!
Instagram
Website

Email the show: elizabeth [at] elizabethlyons [dot] com

The podcast is a proud affiliate partner of Bookshop, working to support local, independent bookstores.

To see all the ways we can work together to get your book written and published, visit publishaprofitablebook.com/work-with-elizabeth