Book Career Network

064 - Fixing Your Social Media Strategy: Why It Fails and Proven Ways to Improve [Becoming A Household Name]

Elizabeth Lyons is the author of WRITE THE DAMN BOOK ALREADY, and host of a podcast by the same name. She offers a course for new and emerging authors called PUBLISH THE DAMN BOOK ALREADY, and for all my listeners, she's offering a 25% discount when you use the code AUTHOR25. Check it out here: https://www.publishaprofitablebook.com/publish

063 - Using Instagram To Become A Millionaire [Becoming A Household Name]

No matter how good you are, if you can't figure out how to be everywhere all the time, you can't do amazing things. That's why I've gone all in on using Instagram to promote my novels. In this episode, I'm continuing to look at how I'm driving new follows, likes, shares, and comments on Instagram. I share what's worked, what's failed, and all the in between.

062 - Collaborate Like Swift: How Teamwork Fuels Creativity for Authors [Romancing Like Swift]

In this episode of Romancing Like Swift, hosts Morgana Bevan and Emily Jane explore the creative and practical benefits of collaboration in the writing world, inspired by Taylor Swift’s selective partnerships on her album Tortured Poets Department. They dive into how collaborations, whether it’s co-writing books, creating shared worlds, or working with editors and cover designers, can fuel creativity, expand skill sets, and increase visibility for authors.
Morgana and Emily discuss how important it is to find the right collaborators and establish clear expectations to foster strong, long-lasting creative relationships. They highlight the parallels between collaborations in the music industry and the writing world, showing how both can benefit from shared projects and cross-promotions.
Additionally, they touch on strategies such as name-dropping and Easter eggs to engage readers and build a sense of community. The conversation wraps up with a fun “Kiss, Marry, Kill” segment, where the hosts reflect on some of their favorite Taylor Swift tracks and their personal resonance.
Key Takeaways:
Collaborations can fuel creativity, expand skill sets, and provide practical benefits such as increased visibility and shared workloads.
Finding the right collaborators is crucial for successful partnerships, and relationships may evolve over time.
Revisit themes and work with professionals like editors and cover designers to enhance the creative process.
Collaborations in the music industry, such as co-writing and featuring artists, can be applied to the writing world through co-authorship and shared worlds.
Establishing clear expectations and communication is vital when collaborating on creative projects.
Cross-promotion strategies like name-dropping and Easter eggs can build a sense of community and expand an author’s readership.
Collaborations require trust, flexibility, and the ability to handle feedback and criticism.
Different types of collaborations bring unique perspectives and styles to a project, enriching the final outcome.
Episode Breakdown:
00:31 – Taylor Swift’s Selective Collaborations
02:14 – The Benefits of Author Collaborations
04:45 – Creative Synergy and Skill Sharing
07:00 – The Emotional Support of Collaboration
11:23 – Mentorship and Learning from Others
19:48 – The Evolving Role of Editors and Producers
23:01 – Navigating the Writing Industry
27:20 – The Importance of Chemistry in Writing
28:03 – Choosing the Right Editor and Designer
29:47 – Collaborations and Co-Writing
31:54 – Shared Worlds and Cameos
44:34 – Cross-Promotion and Name Drops
46:23 – Tips for Finding a Co-Author
48:34 – Fun with Kiss, Marry, Kill
50:52 – Wrapping Up and Final Thoughts

061 - James Fox: Only Writers Into Worldbuilding Part 2 [Worlds Asunder]

Every novelist wants to see their writing on the silver screen. Too easy. Step one, convert your book into a screenplay… Today’s guest is James Fox. He’s been in the film industry for over 22 years and has worked just about every role you can imagine in the industry. We’ll discuss his unique entry point into novel writing. He wrote his first book, Sol Saga: Revolution after pitching the same series as a screenplay. 
So what’s the difference between building a script and world for the screen vs the page? Join us as we dig into the details of screenwriting, writing characters, and even a little bit about pitching a show or movie. 
 
In Part Two, We Discuss: 
Character-driven vs plot-driven narratives 
Why writing relatable characters bring audiences in and builds rapport 
Character motivation 
Character internalizations on the screen vs the page 
Escapism as an author and a reader 
Writing plots and character arcs that satisfy readers 
Pitch decks and a few basic steps for writers interested in starting screenplays
 
Resources and Guest Links: 
James Fox: https://thejamesfox.com/ 
https://www.instagram.com/thejamesbfoxx/ 
The Sol Saga trilogy: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CRZ7QXW7?binding=kindle_edition&ref=dbs_dp_sirpi  
In Darkness Dwells: https://www.amazon.com/d/B0969MBHV2 
 
We’re privileged to share a publishing company and friendship with James. When we found out he was also hosting a Book Career Network podcast, we knew we had to do a collaboration! Check out his show, Ink & Effort, that releases every Friday! 
 
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
 

060 - From Zero to Thousands: Tracking My Instagram Progress [Becoming A Household Name]

An authentic look at how to use Instagram to gain attention for your art.

059 - James Fox: Only Writers Into Worldbuilding [Worlds Asunder]

Every novelist wants to see their writing on the silver screen. Too easy. Step one, convert your book into a screenplay… Today’s guest is James Fox. He’s been in the film industry for over 22 years and has worked just about every role you can imagine in the industry. We’ll discuss his unique entry point into novel writing. He wrote his first book, Sol Saga: Revolution after pitching the same series as a screenplay. 
So what’s the difference between building a script and world for the screen vs the page? 
 
In Part One, We Discuss: 
The main differences in screenplay and novel expectations 
Expectation vs reality in writing your first novel 
Working in a writers room vs co-writing vs solo writing experiences
Balancing creativity with more business-minded goals and benchmarks 
Worldbuilding focus and motivating concepts for writing 
In-depth research, handwavium, and their roles in science fiction
Utilizing field professionals for research 
The seven degrees of Kevin Bacon 
 
Resources and Guest Links: 
James Fox: https://thejamesfox.com/ 
https://www.instagram.com/thejamesbfoxx/ 
The Sol Saga trilogy: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CRZ7QXW7?binding=kindle_edition&ref=dbs_dp_sirpi  
In Darkness Dwells: https://www.amazon.com/d/B0969MBHV2 
 
We’re privileged to share a publishing company and friendship with James. When we found out he was also hosting a Book Career Network podcast, we knew we had to do a collaboration! Check out his show, Ink & Effort, that releases every Friday! 
 
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
 

058 - Lessons From The Tortured Poet Department [Romancing Like Swift]

In this episode, hosts Morgana Bevan and Emily Jane explore the lessons authors can take away from Taylor Swift's latest album, Tortured Poets Department. They dive into the emotional depth of the album and its connection to storytelling, discussing how Swift balances market demands with her personal creative expression. The conversation highlights the differences between traditional and indie publishing, emphasizing the freedom and flexibility indie authors enjoy.
Morgana and Emily also delve into the anthology format of the album and how it allows for a wide range of emotions, similar to crafting layered characters in novels. Literary references and Easter eggs are explored as tools for engaging readers and fans on a deeper level. They wrap up with a fun "Kiss, Marry, Kill" segment, where they analyze their favorite songs from the album.
Takeaways:
Tortured Poets Department offers valuable insights for authors on emotional depth and creative freedom.
Indie publishing allows for more personal expression compared to the traditional route.
The anthology format mirrors the diverse emotional journeys of characters in storytelling.
Balancing market expectations with personal voice is key for authors.
Swift's use of Easter eggs and literary references creates an interconnected universe for listeners and readers.
Crafting powerful narratives takes time, experience, and emotional authenticity.
Chapters:00:00 Welcome to Romancing Like Swift
00:10 Meet Your Hosts: Morgana and Emily
00:14 Taylor Swift's Influence on Authors
00:34 Processing Tortured Poets Department
00:50 Lessons from Tortured Poets Department
01:05 Introduction of Hosts and Their Backgrounds
03:57 The Impact of Folklore Era
04:55 Trad Publishing vs Indie Publishing
09:15 Taylor Swift's Evolution in Music
15:01 The Freedom of Indie Publishing
15:42 Connecting with Readers and Markets
16:11 Taylor Swift's Emotional Journey
19:00 The Craft of Songwriting and Storytelling
25:14 Relating to Taylor Swift's Music
28:06 Taylor Swift's Work Ethic and Reworking the Show
29:32 Easter Eggs and Song Connections
30:27 Literary References and Educating a Generation
33:13 Creating Universes in Music and Literature
41:26 Kiss, Marry, Kill: Song Choices
46:59 Episode 13: Special Mentions and Wrap-Up

057 - Gail Carriger: Archeology and Treacle Tarts Part 2 [Worlds Asunder]

What do shoes, cephalopods, and tea have in common? They’re all some of today’s guest’s favorite things. We’re pleased to introduce the one and only Gail Carriger: multiple NYT bestselling author of urban fantasy, steampunk, supernatural, science fiction, and non-fiction. Gail’s background as an archaeologist has helped shape her worldbuilding, and her insights to crafting character and setting are uniquely insightful.
How do you write a hug, make readers laugh, and keep them tearing through the pages? What makes a long-running joke or a character feel like your best friend? Get ready to take notes as Gail’s gives us tips and tales ranging from witty banter in fiction, Firefly stories, and author business advice.
 
In Part Two, We Discuss: 
Writers as fans and author behavior 
The evolution of worldbuilding across a series, and using worldbuilding as a pacing tool 
Using food in SFF genres 
Giving new functions to existing forms in alternate history and steampunk: historical customs, fashion, and technology 
The Heroine’s Journey 
Building your worlds and stories around personal passions 
 
Resources and Guest Links: 
Gail’s upcoming events: https://gailcarriger.com/upcoming-events/ 
The Heroine’s Journey: https://gailcarriger.com/books/hj/
Gail’s fiction: https://gailcarriger.com/books/ 
Pre-order for The Dratsie Dilemma, the latest book in the San Andrea Shifters series: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DG9CWGPL 
20 Minute Delay Podcast: https://gailcarriger.com/books/20mindelay/ 
Reading Glasses Podcast: https://maximumfun.org/podcasts/reading-glasses/ 
 
Gail was such a phenomenal guest! We’re so grateful she gave us her time for this awesome interview. We had so much fun recording, and we hope you got as much out of this episode as we did. 
 
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
 

056 - A Sure Way To Failure [Becoming A Household Name]

The Magic Bullet to success exists, and if you don't work hard, you are sure to never find it.

055 - Sustainable Artistry with Becca Syme [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 discuss the valuable lessons authors can draw from Taylor Swift’s career. The conversation centers around emotional regulation, sustaining a long-term creative career, and building meaningful relationships with readers. Becca offers insights on how authors can reduce burnout, create supportive environments, and focus on internal joy rather than external pressures.
The hosts and Becca explore the difference between temporary relief and true happiness, emphasizing the need to cultivate emotional well-being throughout an author’s career. They also discuss how Taylor Swift’s emotional intelligence, ability to connect with her fans, and capacity to navigate the challenges of a high-profile creative career can serve as inspiration for authors looking to create a sustainable writing journey.
Key Takeaways:
Emotional Regulation: Taylor Swift exemplifies emotional regulation, and authors can learn from her ability to manage stress and stay grounded.
Burnout Prevention: Authors need to develop strategies to prevent burnout and sustain their careers over the long term.
Fan Connection: Like Taylor Swift, authors should build deep, lasting relationships with their readers, creating “super fans.”
Quality Over Quantity: In a saturated market, focusing on quality and authenticity will help authors stand out.
Sustainability: Finding a balance between creative work and emotional health is essential for career longevity.
Community & Belonging: Creating a sense of community is crucial for authors, both in terms of reader engagement and personal support networks.
Joy in Writing: Finding joy in the writing process should be a priority for all authors, fostering creativity and resilience.
Episode Breakdown:
00:00 – Introduction to Romancing Like Swift Podcast
00:31 – Guest Introduction: Becca Syme
02:57 – Understanding Author Burnout
05:21 – Taylor Swift’s Emotional Regulation and Lessons for Authors
09:36 – Taylor Swift as a Creative Trailblazer
21:05 – The Importance of Foundational Relationships
26:27 – Navigating the Saturated Book Market
33:12 – The Reality of Author Sustainability
48:20 – The Need for Belonging and Community
50:14 – Creating Super Fans and Reader Loyalty
50:36 – Exploring the Archetypes Continuum
52:08 – Superstar vs. Sandbox Platforms
55:24 – Identifying Your Unique Platform
01:01:35 – Sustainability and Burnout in the Writing Industry
01:10:24 – Questioning Expectations as an Author
01:21:22 – Finding Joy in Writing and Creativity
01:23:32 – Emotional Regulation and Lasting Happiness
01:26:54 – Hosts' Favorite Taylor Swift Songs