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.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, Nicole sits down with Rebecca Fenton—a self-employed media consultant with experience across TV, publishing, audio, and children’s books. Together they explore what it takes to develop original content in today’s saturated landscape, how feedback elevates a good project to a great one, and why authors need to think like creative strategists building a slate, not just a single book.

Rebecca shares insights from her career developing content for Audible, Line Pictures, and literacy nonprofits, and reflects on what it means to take creative risks after going freelance. She also opens up about her inspiration for Mummy and Me (available in the U.S. as Mommy and Me), a beautifully illustrated children’s book that celebrates the everyday joy of single parent households.

Mentioned in this episode:

• Rebecca’s website: rebeccafentonmedia.com
• Mommy and Me (U.S. edition)

If you loved this episode, please share it with a fellow writer and leave a review!

May contain affiliate links.

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

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Bestselling author Nic DiDomizio joins Nicole for a conversation that’s equal parts hilarious, heartfelt, and brutally honest. In this candid episode, Nic pulls back the curtain on what it really takes to make it in traditional publishing—from query letter heartbreak to near-deals that died in acquisitions, and the unexpected role James Patterson played in his debut.

We also dive into Nic’s latest novel, Nearly Wed—a romcom that blends lobster lore, pop culture references, and age-gap romance in a way that speaks directly to every geriatric millennial’s soul.

You’ll hear:

• The emotional rollercoaster of getting traditionally published
• How to survive the query trenches and “dying on submission”
• Why your first draft doesn’t need to be perfect
• The importance of persistence, community, and knowing your path

Plus, Nic shares his manifestation list for 2026 (spoiler: it includes starred reviews, strong preorders, and Nearly Wed: The Movie).

If you’ve ever wondered what it really takes to break into traditional publishing—or stay in it—this episode is for you.

Books mentioned:

📚 Nearly Wed

📚 The Gay Best Friend

📚 Burn It All Down

Check out Nicolas’ Instagram: @nicdidomiziobooks and Website: https://nicolasdidomizio.com/

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

May contain affiliate links.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this soulful and honest episode of Writer Unblocked, Nicole sits down with writer and developmental editor Victoria Jane to unpack what really goes into shaping a strong novel—and a resilient author. They talk about the power of developmental editing, how to support sensitive and neurodivergent writers (including those with ADHD), and why writing doesn’t have to be perfect to be powerful.

Victoria shares how she helps authors refine story structure, deepen character arcs, and gain clarity when they’ve read their manuscript one too many times. From her love of romance and fantasy to her own journey writing her debut rom-com With You I Glow, Victoria emphasizes the importance of play, nervous system regulation, and creating for the joy of it.

They also explore AI in publishing, perfectionism, and the emotional work of writing—and how to protect your creative voice through it all.

Whether you’re in the messy middle of your manuscript or struggling to “feel like a writer,” this episode will speak to your heart.

Resources & Links:

• Want to work with Victoria? She offers free intro calls and sample edits!
• Visit Victoria's website: victoriajaneeditorial.com
• Follow Victoria on Instagram: @editsbyvictoriajane
• Check out her podcast: @bookshopchats

In This Episode:

• What a developmental editor actually does—and when to hire one
• Why writers with ADHD and sensitive nervous systems need different kinds of support
• The mindset shift that can unlock your authentic voice
• Using rituals (like Nicole’s now-famous orange juice routine!) to ground your creativity
• How Victoria’s own editing journey transformed her debut novel
• The nuanced take on AI tools for authors and editors
• The creative superpower of rest, fun, and self-compassion

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

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Writer Unblocked, I sit down with literary agent and soon-to-be certified financial coach Linda Camacho. With 20 years in the publishing industry, Linda offers unfiltered insights into what makes a manuscript stand out, how rights work, and what really happens behind the scenes when your book is on submission. We also talk about the rise of self-publishing, the emotional toll of rejection, and why understanding money as a creative is essential. If you're serious about building a writing career—this is a must-listen.

Highlights:

-What “dying on submission” really means

-How to protect your audio, foreign, and other rights

-The emotional rollercoaster of getting an agent (and not getting one)

-Why your first book might not be “the one”—and why that’s OK

-How Linda is helping authors get financially literate

-Self-publishing as a powerful career path—not a consolation prize

Connect with Linda:

• https://lindacamacho.com/
• https://www.linkedin.com/in/linda-camacho-coach/

Follow Nicole:

• Instagram: @reignitewithnicole
• Sign up for the Reignite with Nicole newsletter: https://nicole-opdenbosch.mykajabi.com/reignite-roundup-newsletter

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

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Are you constantly distracted when you sit down to write? Do you find yourself stuck in an endless scroll, even though you meant to open your manuscript? You’re not alone—and it’s not your fault. In this solo episode, Nicole dives into Stolen Focus by Johann Hari and unpacks how our attention is being hijacked by modern life—and what authors can do to reclaim it.

Nicole breaks down the science behind attention loss, debunks the myth of multitasking, and shares actionable strategies to help writers get back into a creative flow state. From the truth about “task switching” to the critical role of daydreaming in storytelling, this episode is a must-listen for any author struggling to focus in a noisy world.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

• Why your focus isn’t failing you—your environment is
• The four types of attention every writer needs to protect
• Why multitasking is a myth (and how it’s hurting your writing)
• The surprising power of daydreaming for creativity
• Nicole’s top focus rituals to help you finish your book

Resources Mentioned:

• Stolen Focus by Johann Hari (affiliate link)
• Nicole’s FREE 7-Day Reclaim Your Focus Challenge
• Join The Strategic Author, Nicole’s 12-week group coaching program for writers
• Freedom App (distraction blocker) and Forest App (focus timer)

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

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What if the biggest thing blocking your progress... is you?

In this episode of Writer Unblocked, I’m joined by conflict resolution coach and author Dana Bernstein, whose book It’s the Thought That Counts: Mastering the Art of YOU vs. you is an empowering guide to untangling your thoughts, owning your identity, and getting out of your own way.

This conversation dives deep — from the internal “committee” we all battle, to what it means to define your core “Who,” to a real-time coaching moment where I share something I’ve been struggling with (yes, it's personal).

About Dana Bernstein:

Dana Bernstein is a conflict resolution coach, mediator, and author. With a background in legal studies and years of experience in both coaching and mediation, she helps individuals navigate both external and internal conflict to create more clarity, alignment, and joy in their lives.

Connect with Dana:

Website: https://danalynnbernstein.com/

Buy the Book: It’s the Thought That Counts: Mastering the Art of YOU vs. you

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

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What happens when a hip-hop artist turns his lyrical fire toward children's books? You get Rhymosaurs—a brilliant mashup of storytelling, rhythm, and prehistoric swagger that’s turning picky eaters and fussy sleepers into poetry-loving dino fans.

In this high-energy episode, Nicole chats with Orlando Molina, the creative force behind Rhymosaurs, about how he went from laying down bars in studios to writing rhyming picture books that actually slap. Orlando opens up about his unexpected pivot into children’s publishing, how a life-changing move to Norway shifted his path, and why poetry is a secret weapon for child development.

They dive deep into:

• The magic of rhyme and rhythm in storytelling
• Turning real-life parenting struggles (like picky eating!) into joyful reads
• How to make audiobooks more than just books read aloud—think beats, flow, and full-on performances
• The power of believing in your voice, even when the industry tells you no
• And yep—there’s a live reading and performance at the end that you do not want to miss

If you're a parent, educator, author, or just someone who believes in the power of creative pivots, this episode will leave you hyped—and maybe writing your own rhymes.

🎧 Press play and prepare to smile.

📚 Rhymosaurs Book Series

https://www.rhymosaurs.com

A children’s book series blending dinosaurs, hip-hop, and life lessons. Each book includes the “Graffiti Spot” for kids to remix rhymes and color.

🎧 Rhymosaurs Audiobooks & Music

Available on Audible, Spotify, Apple Music, and other major platforms. Includes original songs, acapella versions, and instrumentals for kids to freestyle with.

🎤 MC ZEPS (Orlando Molina's music & performance alias)

Orlando’s music background and alter ego, featured in performances, events, and kids' shows.

📸 Instagram

@rhymosaurs – Follow for updates on new books, events, and music drops.

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

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