Writing for Immortality

From his early days at Bantam Books to co-founding The Story Plant, Lou Aronica has shaped publishing for over four decades. In this candid conversation, the veteran publisher, editor, and bestselling author shares what makes a manuscript stand out and how to succeed in today's publishing world. Drawing from his experience with both literary giants and emerging voices, Lou offers practical wisdom for writers at every stage—from crafting that first query letter to building a lasting connection with readers. Whether you're considering traditional publishing or exploring independent routes, you'll get honest advice from one of the industry's most respected voices.

Have you subscribed to the show yet? Please do--it's a zero cost way you can support the show and help other aspiring immortals find us.

Chapters

00:00 The Journey into Publishing

10:42 Transitioning Between Publishing Houses

19:42 The Evolving Role of Authors in Marketing

27:23 The Resource Gap in Publishing

29:33 Challenges in Book Promotion

32:29 Respecting Reader Preferences

33:39 The Power of Organic Marketing

35:48 Influence of Book Clubs

39:42 Common Mistakes in Author Submissions

46:47 The Role of Editors in Author Success

50:18 Emerging Trends in Fiction

They say laughter is the best medicine, and when author Elaine Franklin found the news of the day to grim to bear, she found the antidote in writing fiction. The result of her efforts, "Once Upon a Time in Hollywood," is a frothy balm for readers looking for escapism with a little dose of social commentary.

Barbara and Elaine discuss the inspiration behind the book, the importance of humor in writing, character development, and the editing process. The conversation also touches on the evolving perceptions of aging and the importance of representation in literature.

Buy the book here: https://www.amazon.com/Once-Upon-Time-Beverly-Hills/dp/B0BJTJ3654

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Elaine Franklin and Her Book

03:29 The Inspiration Behind 'Once Upon a Time in Beverly Hills'

05:27 Character Development and Real-Life Inspirations

07:59 The Writing Process and Audience Engagement

10:13 Editing Insights and the Role of an Editor

12:44 The Importance of Humor in Writing

15:49 Future Projects and Aging Gracefully

"There's no such thing as a boring life story if you tell it well," says Barbara as she explores major publishing trends from the Frankfurt Book Fair, shares powerful writing strategies, and reveals the effective alternatives to NaNoWriMo. From breaking news about AI in publishing to proven memoir writing techniques, this episode equips you with tools to move your writing project forward. Learn how the publishing landscape is evolving, find solutions to common writing roadblocks, and tap into thriving writing communities that will support your creative journey. Ready to transform your story from idea to finished manuscript? This episode maps out your next steps.

Episode Overview: Writing Success Strategies & Publishing Trends 2025 Key Topics Covered:

Resources Mentioned:

00:00 Introduction and Overview of the Episode

02:18 Trends from the Frankfurt Book Fair

06:00 Listener Question: Writing Life Stories

12:17 Exploring National Novel Writing Month

21:16 Alternatives to NaNoWriMo

It's Halloween, and today's show is all about the ways we can write scary. Specifically:

What builds tension in a piece of writing?

How can you subvert reader expectations?

What's at stake?

This episode explores only a portion of what it takes to write scary scenes, but hopefully it will get you thinking about how to craft content that's truly frightful. Plus, a review of a new book, a book club announcement, and a bookish activity for those of you not heading out to trick-or-treat.

Links to topics mentioned in today's show:

Nick Basbanes Halloween talk:

https://umass-amherst.zoom.us/meeting/register/tJIqd-yspzMjEtZ9mm4CBt_QwsTcF56kUOIT#/registration

Natalie Portman's book club

https://www.instagram.com/natsbookclub/?hl=en

Creation Lake by Rachel Kushner https://tinyurl.com/2bzj7aud

Grolier Club Billy Budd: https://grolierclub.wordpress.com/2024/09/12/now-open-in-our-second-floor-gallery-melvilles-billy-budd-at-100/

Review of Lake George: https://www.writing4immortality.com/post/lakegeorge

Writer's Block: Is it real, or is it all in the mind? Is it just an excuse to avoid work and only afflicts hobby-writers? Whether you think it's real or not, we've all faced our writing and dreaded it, whatever the reason may be. This episode explores what writers can do when they'd rather pick sand out of dirt than type ten words.

Please be kind, remember to subscribe to the show so you never miss another episode. Plus, subscribing is a zero-cost way to show your love for the pod. Thank you!

Links mentioned in this episode:

https://www.diybook.us/

The 3-word mantra that banishes writer's block: https://www.diybook.us/3-word-mantra-that-banishes-writers-block/

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Writer's Block

08:29 Understanding Writer's Block

19:07 Strategies to Overcome Writer's Block

25:19 The 'Just Write Anything' Mantra

39:21 Final Thoughts and Resources

Terry's back!

Morgan James acquisitions editor Terry Whalin returns to the podcast in this latest episode to talk about "Book Proposals That $ell: 21 Secrets To Speed Your Success."

Terry, who previously appeared in Season 1 to discuss his book "10 Publishing Myths" (linked below), lays out exactly what authors need to do in order to sell their books to agents and publishing houses.

In this eye-opening conversation, Terry reveals:

• Why your book proposal is "essentially your business plan"

• The importance of finding "your little tribe or your readers"

• Why you "have to devote time to marketing your book"

Terry shares insider knowledge on crafting proposals that demand attention and increase your chances of success in the competitive world of publishing. Learn how to sidestep common pitfalls, understand the submission process, and build a powerful author platform.

Don't miss this game-changing episode packed with actionable advice for authors at every stage of their journey. Whether you're crafting your first query letter or fine-tuning your marketing strategy, Terry's insights will give you the edge you need to stand out in the crowded publishing landscape.

Listen now and discover how to transform your manuscript into a compelling business proposition that editors can't ignore!

Finally, please subscribe to the show. It's a no-cost way to show us some love and helps us get found by other aspiring writers. Thank you!

Season 1: Debunking Publishing Myths: https://tr.ee/MAmTh1XZrO

Book Proposals that Sell:

Need more help with your book proposal? Barbara at In Ink Ghostwriting's got your back!

00:00 Introduction to Book Proposals

05:54 The Importance of a Solid Book Proposal

10:25 Understanding the Publishing Landscape

16:45 Building Your Author Platform

21:33 Crafting a Compelling Book Proposal

27:07 Navigating Query Letters and Submissions

33:35 The Role of Timing in Publishing

38:32 Cultivating Patience and Persistence

Buckle up for a journey through the intersection of writing, technology, and law with cybersecurity expert Star Kashman. In this episode we plunge into the digital minefield that modern writers must navigate, exploring everything from copyright conundrums to the AI authorship revolution. It’s going to get bumpy!

Star Kashman, a legal maverick in the world of cybersecurity, shares her unconventional path into this cutting-edge field, highlights the pressing need for tech-savvy lawmakers, and explains the complex network of copyright issues in the age of artificial intelligence.

But don't despair, wordsmiths! The challenges may be daunting, but this episode arms you with the knowledge and strategies to thrive in this brave new world. Star offers practical insights on how writers can adapt, protect their work, and even leverage AI to enhance their craft.

Consider this your call to arms. Learn to protect your creative rights, stay ahead of the technological curve, and succeed in an increasingly complex digital landscape. Whether you're a veteran wordsmith or a budding author, bookmark this episode as your essential guide to conquering the wild west of online writing.

Links to sources mentioned in this episode:

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Cybersecurity Law and Writing

06:05 The Challenges of Technology and Regulation

09:42 Section 230 and Fair Use

13:21 Understanding Copyright Law and AI

16:07 Legal Issues Surrounding AI-Generated Works

23:13 Fair Use and Copyright Protection

24:18 Understanding Fair Use and Permissions

25:32 The Commodity of Data and the Lack of Regulations

26:22 Balancing Innovation and Legal Consequences

27:39 The Consequences of Infringing Upon Name and Likeness

28:14 Addressing the Use of Information and Training Materials

30:57 The Importance of Ethics in Tech Law

36:37 Using AI Tools for Organization and Inspiration

42:32 Protecting Your Writing and Creative Ideas

46:31 Collaborating for Laws that Protect Authors and Journalists

Travel books help us imagine ourselves in new places, but until recently, most books didn't offer specific travel guidance for LGBTQIA+ travelers beyond what felt like the compulsory section on nightlife and local safety concerns. And regardless of sexuality, not everyone wants to go to a rave at 2am--some travelers would much rather go antiquing. With 120 destinations, OUT IN THE WORLD

Authors Amy B. Scher https://amybscher.com/and Mark Jason Williams https://www.markjasonwilliams.com/

draw on their deep love of travel (Sher's first book was a memoir dedicated to the transformative and healing power of travel, and Williams is a travel writer for the New York Times, Out Magazine, and others) and a desire to help others discover inclusive destinations.

This conversation covers travel, how OUT IN THE WORLD came together, the importance of a fantastic book proposal, and what to expect when co-authoring a project. Listen and start planning your next travel adventure!

Chapters

00:00 Introducing 'Out in the World': A Travel Guide for the LGBTQ+ Community

07:07 The Importance of a Strong Book Proposal

13:47 Creating an Inclusive Travel Experience for Everyone

15:31 Travel as a Path to Healing and Personal Growth

20:58 120 Unique Destinations: Personal and Diverse Recommendations

24:56 A Global Perspective and Budget Options

29:43 Iceland: A Standout Destination

34:31 Smooth Collaboration and Open to Feedback

37:58 Future Books and Writing Plans

Get out the popcorn because this show is a binge. Snacky, even. Either way, you won't regret indulging in this episode because every minute is a golden nugget of goodness! Here's why: Some people are born storytellers, others need to find the right medium first. But we all have stories to share, and Krystal Proffitt--Podcast Coach, Content Strategist, and host of the award-winning show The Proffitt Podcast--specializes in helping content creators create with confidence and has published over 1,300 podcast episodes, so she knows what it takes to keep creating year after year.

Krystal teaches content strategy, repurposing, branding, and marketing through her podcast, digital courses, and YouTube channel dedicated to content creation. She also appears as a Content Expert on other YouTube channels such as Buzzsprout and Streamyard. On today's episode, we learn about Krystal's journey from being a stay-at-home mom to becoming a successful podcaster and coach.

Since this is a podcast about writing, the conversation naturally focuses into the importance of storytelling, finding one's voice, overcoming self-doubt, and the significance of consistency in writing. Krystal shares how she keeps her audience engaged by creating thoughtful content and always remembering to keep it fun while meeting her professional goals. Krystal even shares a personal anecdote about when she helped a family member preserve a family story. The episode wraps with reflections on the value of feedback and documenting ideas for future projects.

If you're launching a podcast, or if you already host a podcast and are having trouble keeping the content fresh, connect with Krystal--she's dedicated to helping fellow podcasters get the results they're after. You can get her FREE 5-minute podcast bootcamp here:

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Background

04:16 Transitioning from Blogging to Podcasting

07:53 Using Voice Typing to Overcome Writing Challenges

09:50 The Importance of Having Fun in Content Creation

13:08 Inspiration from Other Content Creators

14:49 Knowing Your Audience and Addressing Their Needs

16:07 Using Language and Voice to Connect with Your Audience

16:53 Finding Joy and Fun in the Creative Process

17:59 Balancing Multiple Creative Projects

19:04 Setting Realistic Content Creation Goals

20:19 Prioritizing Non-Negotiables in Content Creation

21:13 Adapting and Experimenting with Podcasting

22:09 Lowering the Bar and Setting Realistic Expectations

22:55 The Power of Consistency and Developing Habits

23:45 The Impact of Handwritten Letters and Personal Connections

26:41 Working with Family to Preserve Memories

32:35 The Process of Self-Publishing and Setting a Launch Date

34:58 The Importance of Feedback in the Writing Process

37:42 Marketing Strategies for Self-Published Authors

38:30 Choosing the Right Size and Format for Your Book

We're kicking off Season 2 of Writing for Immortality the extraordinary poet Rodney Leonard.

Rodney Leonard's poetic journey is as vibrant and multifaceted as his verses. From the rich soil of Alabama to the bustling streets of New York, Leonard's life experiences have shaped his voice in the world of poetry.

Growing up surrounded by strong women, Leonard's work resonates with the echoes of his mother and grandmother's influence. Their stories, woven into the fabric of his childhood, now form the backbone of his artistic expression.

But Leonard's muse isn't confined to his roots. His wanderlust has taken him across the globe, each journey leaving an indelible mark on his poetry. From the lavender-scented hills of South Africa to the vibrant streets of New Delhi, these travels have become spiritual pilgrimages, feeding his creativity and expanding his worldview.

Leonard's poetry doesn't shy away from life's complexities. He embraces the full spectrum of human experience - from the joyous to the painful, the mundane to the extraordinary. His battle with COVID-19 in the midst of the pandemic inspired a powerful suite of poems, exploring the concept of human endurance in the face of adversity. His latest collection of verse, Another Land of My Body, was recently published by Four Ways Books and the recipient of a starred review in Library Journal.

For aspiring poets, Leonard offers sage advice: read voraciously, commit wholeheartedly to your craft, and above all, believe in the power of your unique voice. His journey serves as a testament to the transformative power of poetry and the importance of staying true to one's artistic vision.

Links:

Rodney Leonard/Another Land of My Body:

https://fourwaybooks.com/site/another-land-of-my-body/Maya Angelou: https://www.poetryfoundation.org/poets/maya-angeloundation

Diane Seuss:

https://www.poetryfoundation.org/poets/diane-seuss

Terrence Hayes: https://www.poetryfoundation.org/poets/terrance-hayes

Find every episode plus articles on how to help you be the best writer you can be over at our website, https://www.writing4immortality.com/

And if you need more help writing your story, visit our friends at DIYBook https://www.diybook.us/

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Rodney Leonard

02:09 The Influence of Women in Rodney's Family

04:06 Growing Up in Alabama

06:27 The Delight of Work and Writing

08:22 Misconceptions About Writing and Poetry

10:16 The Decision to Pursue Poetry

15:04 The Impact of an MFA Program

17:42 The Practice of Writing and Supporting Other Writers

18:39 A Typical Writing Day for Rodney

19:36 Upcoming Travel Plans and Writing Retreats

22:38 The Significance of Travel in Rodney's Life

24:21 Memorable Travel Experiences

29:58 Exploring Home and Appreciating Cusa County

31:35 The Influence of Place

33:30 Approaching Places with an Open Spirit

35:57 Embracing the Totality of the Human Experience in Poetry

46:57 Poems on Bearability: Reflections on COVID-19

57:26 Advice for Aspiring Poets