Book Career Network

074 - Thriving in the Creator Economy with Michael Evans [Romancing Like Swift]

In this episode of Romancing Like Swift, hosts Morgana Bevan and Emma-Lee Jayne sit down with returning guest Michael Evans to discuss the growing impact of the creator economy on authors. They explore how shifts in technology and social platforms are transforming traditional publishing models, empowering authors to become creator-entrepreneurs. Michael explains the journey from platform economies to creator-focused models, underscoring the importance of authors owning their audience data and fostering direct relationships with readers. The conversation provides actionable steps for authors to embrace this evolving landscape, like using direct sales and building an engaged email list to establish a sustainable, independent future.
Michael also offers insights into emerging tools such as blockchain, generative AI, and their potential to redefine how books are distributed and monetized. The episode highlights the value of networks and communities, showing how authors can build stronger connections with readers, inspired by strategies used by figures like Taylor Swift and Jesse Cole. The hosts conclude with reflections on cultivating a creative career centered on both freedom and longevity.
Key Takeaways:
Embracing the creator economy can lead to a sustainable, independent author career.
Direct sales and owning audience data empower authors and reduce reliance on platforms.
Generative AI and blockchain technology may reshape future publishing.
Building a network of readers is increasingly valuable, exemplified by Taylor Swift’s fanbase strategy.
Authors should think beyond traditional publishing and consider themselves as creators.
TikTok and social media algorithms heavily influence book sales, especially among younger readers.
Audience demographics are shifting, with the fastest-growing reading demographic now over 50.
Creative careers in the creator economy require a mindset shift toward ownership and sustainability.
Building community and a strong author brand helps combat industry changes and platform fluctuations.
Episode Chapters:
00:00 - Introduction to Romancing Like Swift
00:31 - Understanding the Creator Economy
01:30 - The Evolution of the Creator Economy
08:50 - Platform Economy vs. Creator Economy
15:19 - Direct Sales and Customer Behavior
19:40 - Future of Publishing and Blockchain
33:48 - The Power of Networks and Communities
36:56 - Taylor Swift: The Ultimate Network Queen
40:06 - The Power of Reader Recommendations
40:46 - TikTok’s Influence on Book Sales
41:51 - Social Media Algorithms’ Impact
44:22 - Reaching and Engaging Older Audiences
45:07 - Demographic Shifts in Reading Habits
48:01 - Technology’s Role in Reader Engagement
56:28 - Sustainable Careers in the Creator Economy
01:01:33 - Shifting the Author Mindset
01:09:45 - Balancing Success and Well-being
01:12:17 - Final Thoughts and Reflections

073 - Tim Akers, You're Weird Enough For Us, Part 2 [Worlds Asunder]

Our guest today is Tim Akers, author of more than ten (often genre-blending) fantasy novels and more short stories and novellas than we wanted to count. Tim was born in deeply rural North Carolina and is the last in a long line of telephony princes, tourist attraction barons, and gruff Scottish bankers. He moved to Chicago for college and stayed to pursue his lifelong obsession with apocalyptic winters. 
Author of series including the Spiritbinder Sag, the Burn Cycle Archives, and the Hallowed War books, Tim loves to write fantasy that blends elements of his favorite genres. Join us in learning about how to write a fantasy story in cyberpunk clothes. 
 
In Part Two, We Discuss: 
“Writing the other” and respecting varied viewpoints in your writing 
Defining and determining genre 
Viewing genre as a marketing tool 
Looking at tropes as parts already explored, vs strict guardrails 
Layering genre as world/setting and pacing/plot 
Writing to market vs writing what you love 
Writing stories that last 
 
Resources and Guest Links: 
Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/timakers.bsky.social 
Twitter: https://twitter.com/TimAkers
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tim.akers/ 
Reign of Dragons Kickstarter, featuring Tim’s short story Of the Wyrm: https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/jasmineyoungauthor/reign-of-dragons-illustrated-hardcover-anthology 
Neuromancer by William Gibson: https://www.amazon.com/Neuromancer-William-Gibson/dp/0441569595 
Malifaux: https://www.wyrd-games.net/malifaux 
Huge thanks to Tim for joining us! He’s a great champion for writing stories you’re passionate about and bringing personal experiences and beliefs into speculative fiction. We hope you enjoy this episode as much as we enjoyed recording it! 
 
Host Links: 
H.Y. Gregor: https://hygregor.com/
David Shadoin: https://www.davidshadoin.com/ 
 
Credits: (all assets licensed through the sites listed)
Intro: Music- Cinematic Epic Trailer by PaulYudin on Pixabay
Animation and Image- From Vecteezy user- kazim hussian; from pixabay users-davidfoxx, DavidGallie, olenchic, stefaniejockschat, AiVreaSaStii, RuneSnow, duyen-nguyen, EnchantedStudios, 
Outro: Music- Good Night by FASSounds on Pixabay
Animation and Image- From Vecteezy user-onlydesignz; from pixabay users-olenchic, Placidplace, Evgeniy_Z, Dantegrafico, Shayea_Kim
 

072 - How I’m Growing My Reader Base Social Media Secrets Revealed [Becoming A Household Name]

3 weeks into my social media growth journey, here are the results.

071 - Harnessing the Power of Superfans with Damon Courtney [Romancing Like Swift]

In this episode of Romancing Like Swift, hosts Morgana Bevan and Emma-Lee Jane sit down with Damon Courtney from BookFunnel to explore the art of building a dedicated fanbase as an indie author, drawing inspiration from Taylor Swift’s remarkable connection with her superfans. Damon shares insights into creating a strong author brand, using direct sales to foster loyalty, and building meaningful connections with readers at every stage of their journey—from new readers to die-hard fans.
Through relatable examples, Morgana, Emily, and Damon discuss tools like mailing lists, bonus content, and social media for deepening fan engagement, as well as collaborating with other authors to expand reach. The episode covers how to turn readers into loyal superfans through genuine interactions, exclusive rewards, and consistent communication. Damon also emphasizes the importance of indie publishing as a pathway for authors to take ownership of their intellectual property and brand, while learning to navigate both praise and criticism.
The conversation wraps up with personal reflections on Taylor Swift’s ability to make fans feel special and a lighthearted discussion of favorite Swift songs and impactful song bridges.
Key Takeaways:
Building a fanbase starts with connecting with readers at various stages, from new fans to superfans.
Direct sales and fostering community around your work are powerful tools for creating a dedicated audience.
Indie publishing empowers authors to control their brand, share authentic stories, and take ownership of their work.
Developing a genuine brand requires authors to connect with readers on a personal level.
Mailing lists, social media, and bonus content help authors engage fans more deeply and make them feel valued.
Collaborative efforts with other authors can help grow a collective fanbase.
Embrace criticism constructively and focus on the positive impact of building a loyal community.
Taylor Swift excels at making her fans feel special and brings joy through her performances, especially in her song bridges.
Approach your work with authenticity and joy to resonate deeply with readers.
Episode Breakdown:
00:31 – Meet Damon Courtney
01:28 – The Reader's Journey and Direct Sales
03:12 – Becoming a Superfan: A Personal Journey
11:16 – The Power of Community and Speculation
12:30 – The Indie Author Experience
21:15 – Building Your Author Brand
34:19 – The Importance of Owning Your Platform
34:27 – Building and Managing Your Mailing List
34:42 – Organic vs. Promotional Signups
37:29 – Engaging with Your Superfans
40:53 – Creating Bonus Content for Fans
49:09 – Collaborative Promotions and Kickstarters
52:29 – Handling Criticism and Building a Community
56:14 – Lessons from Taylor Swift’s Career
01:04:57 – Final Thoughts and Farewell

070 - Tim Akers, You're Weird Enough For Us, Part 1 [Worlds Asunder]

Our guest today is Tim Akers, author of more than ten (often genre-blending) fantasy novels and more short stories and novellas than we wanted to count. Tim was born in deeply rural North Carolina and is the last in a long line of telephony princes, tourist attraction barons, and gruff Scottish bankers. He moved to Chicago for college and stayed to pursue his lifelong obsession with apocalyptic winters. 
Author of series including the Spiritbinder Sag, the Burn Cycle Archives, and the Hallowed War books, Tim loves to write fantasy that blends elements of his favorite genres. Join us in learning about how to write a fantasy story in cyberpunk clothes. 
 
In Part One, We Discuss: 
Tim’s background–how he got into writing and first learned how to sell books 
Approaches to tackle blended genres 
Originality and creating new spins on classic tropes 
Incorporating themes into storytelling 
The importance of cosmology in speculative fiction 
The impacts of theology and personal beliefs on writing 
 
Resources and Guest Links: 
Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/timakers.bsky.social 
Twitter: https://twitter.com/TimAkers
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tim.akers/ 
Reign of Dragons Kickstarter, featuring Tim’s short story Of the Wyrm: https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/jasmineyoungauthor/reign-of-dragons-illustrated-hardcover-anthology 
Neuromancer by William Gibson: https://www.amazon.com/Neuromancer-William-Gibson/dp/0441569595 
Huge thanks to Tim for joining us! He’s a great champion for writing stories you’re passionate about and bringing personal experiences and beliefs into speculative fiction. We hope you enjoy this episode as much as we enjoyed recording it! 
 
Host Links: 
H.Y. Gregor: https://hygregor.com/
David Shadoin: https://www.davidshadoin.com/ 
 
Credits: (all assets licensed through the sites listed)
Intro: Music- Cinematic Epic Trailer by PaulYudin on Pixabay
Animation and Image- From Vecteezy user- kazim hussian; from pixabay users-davidfoxx, DavidGallie, olenchic, stefaniejockschat, AiVreaSaStii, RuneSnow, duyen-nguyen, EnchantedStudios, 
Outro: Music- Good Night by FASSounds on Pixabay
Animation and Image- From Vecteezy user-onlydesignz; from pixabay users-olenchic, Placidplace, Evgeniy_Z, Dantegrafico, Shayea_Kim
 

069 - How Faith and Religion Impact Our Marketing Journey with Michelle Dowd - Author of Forager [Becoming A Household Name]

We look at faith and its impact on marketing. Spoiler: what you believe informs everything you do, and marketing is about translating what you believe into what other people do about you.

068 - Unlocking the Fan First Mindset with Michael Evans [Romancing Like Swift]

In this insightful episode of Romancing Like Swift, hosts Morgana Bevan and Emma-Lee Jane sit down with guest Michael Evans to discuss the powerful "Fans First" mindset and how authors can learn from Taylor Swift's approach to building genuine, lasting relationships with fans. They explore how prioritizing fans can lead to greater success and how storytelling plays a critical role in creating emotional connections. Drawing parallels with creatives like Taylor Swift, Jesse Cole of Savannah Bananas, and YouTuber Mark Rober, the conversation highlights the importance of adapting strategies, experimenting, and staying authentic.
Michael and the hosts dive into key principles authors can adopt, such as balancing creativity with business strategies, embracing experimentation, and learning from mistakes. They reflect on the benefits of data-driven decisions and the value of continuously evolving in both creative and business aspects. Practical tips on how authors can engage their readers, meet fan expectations, and create a fulfilling creative journey are also discussed.
Key Takeaways:
Adopting a “Fans First” mindset is crucial for long-term creative success.
Taylor Swift exemplifies the power of prioritizing fans through emotional connections and storytelling.
Building strong relationships with fans fosters deeper engagement and loyalty.
Authors should embrace experimentation to discover what works best for their audience.
Simplicity in strategy can make engagement more effective and authentic.
Nurturing genuine connections with fans is more valuable than chasing viral fame.
Balancing personal creativity with fan expectations can lead to more satisfying work.
Data-driven learning can enhance an author’s ability to meet audience needs.
Embracing a continuous cycle of reinvention helps foster both creative and business growth.
Success is about creating joy in the process of experimentation and connection.
Episode Breakdown:
00:00 – Introduction to Romancing Like Swift Podcast
00:57 – Introducing Michael Evans
03:02 – Understanding the Fans First Concept
05:31 – Taylor Swift's Approach to Fans First
06:46 – Savannah Bananas and Fans First Strategy
07:46 – Mark Rober’s Approach with Crunch Labs
08:41 – Crafting Your Unique Fans First Strategy
12:29 – The Importance of Meta Story in Engaging Fans
19:35 – Planning vs. Doing: Finding a Creative Balance
22:50 – Experimentation and Adaptability for Creatives
26:20 – The Importance of Audience Connection
26:58 – Learning from Early Mistakes in Your Creative Career
28:05 – The Reality of Using Market Data for Creative Success
28:39 – The Role of Experimentation and Iteration in Growth
31:23 – The YouTube Revelation: Lessons from Video Creators
31:54 – A New Approach to Publishing for Authors
33:13 – Balancing Creativity and Business Success
40:49 – The Continuous Cycle of Reinvention for Artists
46:47 – Final Thoughts and Reflections

067 - Steve Ruskin, the Maned Historian Part 2 [Worlds Asunder]

Just what do you do with a PhD in the History of Science? Write novels–science fiction, urban fantasy, and thriller. Our guest today is Steve Ruskin, PhD. He’s the author of the nonfiction popular history novel America’s First Great Eclipse and countless academic writings, and also of the ExoRok Rebels science fiction series and Trina Piper magical thrillers. 
Steve’s unique background in academics and fiction give him great insight to author resources, creativity, and bringing character-driven fiction to life. 
 
In Part One, We Discuss: 
Painting targets around the points you want to hit in your plots 
On-location research and 
Detail writing, and using the five senses to set a scene  
Worldbuilding and story development in someone else’s shared universe 
Pulling story inspiration from history and integrating it into other genres 
Organization and juggling multiple projects 
 
Resources and Guest Links: 
Steve Ruskin: https://www.steveruskin.com/ 
Steve’s Newsletter: https://storyoriginapp.com/giveaways/f424f312-0fb9-11ee-938d-7f884ddf8bd0 
America’s First Great Eclipse: https://www.amazon.com/Americas-First-Great-Eclipse-Scientists-ebook/dp/B0716GT8FH 
ExoRok Rebels: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0B1BMNQQ1 
Trina Piper Thrillers: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0C9KGPCSS 
Dean Wesley Smith workshops: https://deanwesleysmith.com/online-workshops/ 
Remnants of Empire anthology: https://www.amazon.com/Remnants-Empire-Ashes-Entecea-Book-ebook/dp/B0D52XCZ5D 
The Anubis Gates by Tim Powers: https://www.amazon.com/The-Anubis-Gates-Tim-Powers-audiobook/dp/B019G334ZO 
 
Huge thanks to Steve for coming over to record at our dining room table. We love being able to bring field specialists onto the show, and he’s no exception. We hope you enjoy this episode as much as we enjoyed recording it! 
 
Host Links: 
H.Y. Gregor: https://hygregor.com/
David Shadoin: https://www.davidshadoin.com/ 
 
Credits: (all assets licensed through the sites listed)
Intro: Music- Cinematic Epic Trailer by PaulYudin on Pixabay
Animation and Image- From Vecteezy user- kazim hussian; from pixabay users-davidfoxx, DavidGallie, olenchic, stefaniejockschat, AiVreaSaStii, RuneSnow, duyen-nguyen, EnchantedStudios, 
Outro: Music- Good Night by FASSounds on Pixabay
Animation and Image- From Vecteezy user-onlydesignz; from pixabay users-olenchic, Placidplace, Evgeniy_Z, Dantegrafico, Shayea_Kim
 

066 - Harnessing Resilience: Lessons from Taylor Swift and Overcoming Criticism [Romancing Like Swift]

In this episode of the Romancing Like Swift podcast, hosts Morgana Bevan and Emma-Lee Jane are joined by Becca Syme to dive into the challenges of handling criticism as an author and the impact it can have on emotional well-being. Drawing inspiration from Taylor Swift’s experiences, the conversation covers topics such as the influence of childhood trauma on handling criticism, the importance of self-acceptance, and the need to cultivate internal security and resilience.
Morgana, Emma, and Becca explore how external criticism can affect an author’s internal peace, stressing the importance of distinguishing between content and the critic’s personal conditions. They also discuss the fallacy of equating success with external validation, encouraging authors to build careers grounded in emotional stability and personal fulfillment.
Throughout the episode, Becca shares personal anecdotes, including her journey of embracing self-acceptance and processing grief through music. The conversation also addresses the role of parental influence, competition, and the myth of the “perfect product,” offering strategies for authors to navigate criticism with confidence.
Key Takeaways:
Criticism often reflects the internal struggles of the critic, rather than the content being criticized.
Childhood trauma can influence how we respond to criticism, and addressing those wounds is key to building internal security.
Self-acceptance and emotional resilience are essential for long-term success in the creative industry.
Success in the writing industry is complex and can’t be reduced to external metrics; authors should focus on internal growth and fulfillment.
Collaboration, community, and emotional growth play critical roles in handling criticism and competition.
Processing grief through creative outlets like music can be a powerful form of healing.
Learning to separate external opinions from personal worth is a vital step in achieving self-acceptance.
Episode Breakdown:
00:42 Dealing with Criticism: Insights from Taylor Swift
02:56 Understanding the Source of Criticism
06:00 Personal Experiences with Criticism
14:30 Childhood Trauma and Its Impact
27:58 Navigating the Publishing Industry
51:45 The Futuristic Mindset
58:58 Using the Parental Voice
01:00:13 Separating Yourself from Futuristic
01:01:47 Deconstructing Fear and Embracing Hope
01:04:15 Applying Tools Across Different Life Areas
01:07:03 Criticism and Self-Regulation
01:17:25 Navigating Parental Influence and Self-Acceptance
01:27:40 The Role of Criticism in Artistic Growth
01:32:43 Music, Writing, and Personal Reflections

065 - Steve Ruskin, the Maned Historian Part 1 [Worlds Asunder]

Just what do you do with a PhD in the History of Science? Write novels–science fiction, urban fantasy, and thriller. Our guest today is Steve Ruskin, PhD. He’s the author of the nonfiction popular history novel America’s First Great Eclipse and countless academic writings, and also of the ExoRok Rebels science fiction series and Trina Piper magical thrillers. 
Steve’s unique background in academics and fiction give him great insight to author resources, creativity, and bringing character-driven fiction to life. 
 
In Part One, We Discuss: 
Worldbuilding in historical and popular history writings 
 Nonfiction worldbuilding and research 
Writing character-driven nonfiction 
Where to start historical research and how to reach out to professionals
“Secret histories”: Finding the balance between historical accuracy and fictional liberties 
Maintaining a timeline and the differences between historical fiction and alternate history 
The Village Idiot Approach 
 
Resources and Guest Links: 
Steve Ruskin: https://www.steveruskin.com/ 
Steve’s Newsletter: https://storyoriginapp.com/giveaways/f424f312-0fb9-11ee-938d-7f884ddf8bd0 
America’s First Great Eclipse: https://www.amazon.com/Americas-First-Great-Eclipse-Scientists-ebook/dp/B0716GT8FH 
ExoRok Rebels: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0B1BMNQQ1 
Trina Piper Thrillers: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0C9KGPCSS 
Extinction by Douglas Preston: https://www.amazon.com/Audible-Extinction-A-Novel/dp/B0C31M5X6V 
 
Huge thanks to Steve for coming over to record at our dining room table. We love being able to bring field specialists onto the show, and he’s no exception. We hope you enjoy this episode as much as we enjoyed recording it! 
 
Host Links: 
H.Y. Gregor: https://hygregor.com/
David Shadoin: https://www.davidshadoin.com/ 
 
Credits: (all assets licensed through the sites listed)
Intro: Music- Cinematic Epic Trailer by PaulYudin on Pixabay
Animation and Image- From Vecteezy user- kazim hussian; from pixabay users-davidfoxx, DavidGallie, olenchic, stefaniejockschat, AiVreaSaStii, RuneSnow, duyen-nguyen, EnchantedStudios, 
Outro: Music- Good Night by FASSounds on Pixabay
Animation and Image- From Vecteezy user-onlydesignz; from pixabay users-olenchic, Placidplace, Evgeniy_Z, Dantegrafico, Shayea_Kim