Writer Unblocked

Bria Rose went from Disney cast member to self-published dark romance author—and now she’s releasing her audiobook narrated by none other than Jacob Morgan.

In this episode, we talk about:

• How Disney shaped her storytelling instincts
• The origin of Her Dark Promise (a Beauty & the Beast retelling where Belle is the beast)
• Working with a professional editor and designing a standout cover
• Booking Jacob Morgan & Grace Noble for the audiobook
• How she landed book signings at Barnes & Noble (as an indie author!)
• What’s next: a spicy Pinocchio novella and a secret project with HarperCollins’ One More Chapter imprint

🎧 Buy Her Dark Promise audiobook

📘 Buy the Kindle or paperback

🛍️ Grab the merch

For more information about Writer Unblocked please visit writerunblockedpodcast.com.

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In this episode of Writer Unblocked, I sit down with award-winning author Carol Van Den Hende to explore how letters can unlock creativity, why empathy and hope are essential in storytelling, and how authors can think about their brand as a promise. Carol also shares her journey from traditional publishing to founding her own B Corp press, and what it really means to publish responsibly.

We talk about:

• How the epistolary format sparked seven chapters in one weekend
• The neuroscience of empathy between writers and readers
• Why authors should celebrate book clubs and community feedback
• The difference between publishing for access and publishing with responsibility
• Defining author brand beyond logos and colors

About Carol Van Den Hende:

Carol is the author of the award-winning Goodbye Orchid trilogy and the forthcoming Dear Orchid (Nov 11, Veteran’s Day). Her books have been named most-anticipated reads by Buzzfeed, Parade, and Travel+Leisure, and praised by Glamour and Woman’s World. Through her writing, speaking, and leadership, Carol champions stories of resilience, hope, and empathy.

Connect with Carol:

🌐 Website: carolvandenhende.com

📸 Instagram: @carolvandenhende

📘 Facebook: Carol Van Den Hende Author

▶️ YouTube: @authorcv

🎵 TikTok: @carolvandenhende

📝 Substack: cvdh.substack.com

🔗 Linktree: linktr.ee/cvdh

For more information about Writer Unblocked please visit writerunblockedpodcast.com.

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In this episode of Writer Unblocked, Nicole talks with author, publisher and former CFO Kirsten Marion, who shares how she turned midlife reinvention into a thriving indie publishing career.

They dive into:

• Why her fantasy series centers a 60-year-old heroine
• How to plan a publishing schedule like a pro
• Smart marketing lessons from book one vs. book two
• The real value of email lists and evergreen content
• The meaning of “Elegant Success” for authors

Learn more about Kirsten Marion → [kirstenmarion.com]

Check out the Rowanswood Crones series https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0FTC7GN46

Download The Empire Checklist → https://nicole-opdenbosch.mykajabi.com/empire-checklist

For more information about Writer Unblocked please visit writerunblockedpodcast.com

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In this episode of Writer Unblocked, host Nicole Op Den Bosch sits down with author, publicist, and literary entrepreneur Dr. Rhonda Lawson to unpack the misunderstood difference between publicity and marketing, explore ethical AI use for writers, and discuss why every entrepreneur needs a book.

🎧 Listen now and discover why visibility starts with strategy, not sales.

Resources & Links:

• Dr. Rhonda Lawson’s Website: https://www.mtwimagesolutions.com/
• Nicole’s Free Empire Checklist

For more information about Writer Unblocked please visit writerunblockedpodcast.com.

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In this episode of Writer Unblocked, I sit down with trial attorney and debut author Brad Elder, whose legal thriller Recoil of Justice tackles AI, espionage, and the ethical gray areas of the courtroom.

We talk about:

• Brad’s unexpected leap into writing (1 week from idea to page!)
• Why he chose self-publishing—and how he learned the entire industry himself
• Email lists, marketing mistakes, and platform choices
• His upcoming audiobook release and follow-up novel Core of Truth

📚 Grab Brad’s book: https://bradeldernovels.com

📸 Follow him:

Instagram: @brad.elder.novels

Facebook: @Brad Elder Novels

For more information about Writer Unblocked please visit writerunblockedpodcast.com.

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In this episode of Writer Unblocked, Nicole shares her personal discovery of Human Design and how learning she is a Manifestor changed everything about how she works, creates, and coaches authors. For years she thought something was “wrong” with her because she couldn’t maintain consistency. Human Design revealed that her energy comes in waves and that honoring these cycles is the key to sustainable creativity.

If you’ve ever struggled with consistency, burnout, or feeling like you’re not disciplined enough, this episode will help you reframe your wiring and embrace the way you’re designed to work.

Resources & Links:

📚 Recommended Books on Human Design: 

Informed: The Comprehensive Guide To Human Design Manifestors

Understanding Human Design: The New Science of Astrology: Discover Who You Really Are

The Human Design Workbook: A Step by Step Guide to Understanding Your Own Chart and How it Can Transform Your Life

👉 Connect with Nicole on Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/reignitewithnicole/

For more information about Writer Unblocked please visit writerunblockedpodcast.com.

May contain affiliate links.

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TL McCoy didn’t plan to write a middle-grade fantasy novel. But when she learned that only 3.4% of children’s books feature disabled protagonists, and her own granddaughter was diagnosed with Dravet Syndrome, Delilah Versus the Ghastly Grim was born.

In this powerful episode of Writer Unblocked, TL shares how she:

• Pivoted from a psychological thriller to inclusive children’s fiction
• Self-published like a pro earning awards and bestseller status
• Used AI to create a full-scale marketing plan with promo videos and streaming ads
• Turned personal heartbreak into a story of strength
• Stays unblocked with walks, music, and radical purpose

You’ll also hear our honest take on AI’s role in publishing, from marketing help to creative red flags.

Links:

• Book: Delilah Versus the Ghastly Grim
• Website: www.blueroundbookgroup.com
• Instagram: @blue_round_book_group_llc
• YouTube: Blue Round Book Group

For more information about Writer Unblocked please visit writerunblockedpodcast.com.

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How do you tell your story in a way that truly connects? In this episode of Writer Unblocked, I sit down with Dr. Rod Berger—global interviewer, communication architect, and author of The Narrative Edge—to explore how storytelling shapes not just our books, but our identities as authors.

Rod has interviewed over 4,000 people worldwide, from Pope Francis to NBA legend Magic Johnson and F1 Champion Jenson Button. With his debut book releasing November 12, he shares why storytelling isn’t just a writing skill—it’s a tool for self-worth, connection, and building an authentic author brand.

We talk about:

• Why so many authors hesitate to share their personal story
• How authenticity can transform you and your brand
• The vulnerability and self-worth behind writing (and publishing)
• What Rod learned from interviews across the globe and how it shaped his book
• Why every author should think strategically about formats—from print to audiobooks

If you’ve ever wondered whether your story really matters, this conversation will remind you: owning your narrative is your most powerful asset.

📚 Pre-order Dr. Rod Berger’s The Narrative Edge (available November 12)

🎧 Listen now and discover how to leverage storytelling in your own author journey

Resources & Links:

• Learn more about Rod: drrodberger.com
• Pre-order The Narrative Edge wherever books are sold

For more information about Writer Unblocked please visit writerunblockedpodcast.com.

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Tired of feeling like marketing your book means becoming a full-time influencer? In this episode of Writer Unblocked, Nicole sits down with Hannah, founder of Made with Boldness, a marketing strategist who helps fiction authors build readership without burning out.

Hannah shares practical, stress-free ways to promote your books—starting with the three biggest mistakes she sees authors make:

• Not highlighting their characters and world enough
• Posting too often without strategy
• Neglecting email marketing

From why you should aim for a weekly newsletter to why Instagram carousels beat twice-a-day posting, Hannah breaks down how to simplify your approach, protect your writing time, and still connect deeply with readers. Whether your book is months from release or already on shelves, you’ll leave this conversation feeling inspired to market in a way that feels good to you.

What you’ll learn in this episode:

• How to market your fiction without oversharing your personal life
• Why less frequent, strategic posting works better than constant content churn
• The most effective way to build your email list (and keep readers engaged)
• How to repurpose your characters and worldbuilding into endless marketing content

Resources & Links:

You can find Hannah here:

https://www.instagram.com/madewithboldness/

https://madewithboldness.com/

Sign up for my newsletter: https://nicole-opdenbosch.mykajabi.com/reignite-roundup-newsletter

For more information about Writer Unblocked please visit writerunblockedpodcast.com.

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Edoardo Ballerini is one of the most beloved voices in modern audiobooks. In this episode, we dive into the personal side of voice acting: how Edoardo accidentally missed two years of fan messages (don’t worry, we answer some of them!), why audiobooks are uniquely intimate, and the beautiful, unexpected responses he's received from listeners in pain, grief, and joy.

We read real, heartfelt listener messages aloud—and yes, even a few funny and biting ones. Edoardo also shares how his bilingual upbringing shaped his diction, why music helps narrators, his view on indie authors, and even his candid thoughts on AI in narration.

Whether you're an author, narrator, or audiobook superfan, this episode will make you feel deeply seen and remind you why the human voice still matters.

📍Resources:

• Edoardo’s website & public domain collection
• Follow Edoardo on Instagram: @edoballerini

For more information about Writer Unblocked please visit writerunblockedpodcast.com.

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