Writers’ conferences are amazing... and also A LOT. 😅Sensory overload, tight schedules, nonstop networking—it’s a full-on experience, especially if you're neurodivergent or prone to overwhelm. In this episode of Author Culture , I share my personal strategies for staying grounded, connected, and fully present at conferences— without melting down. Whether you’re a seasoned speaker or heading to your very first event, these tips will help you pack for both professionalism and personal comfort. Th...
Jul 10, 2025•18 min
Don’t be afraid to rebel—just do it wisely. Too often, writers stick to the “safe” path when it comes to marketing—social posts, newsletter swaps, maybe a hopeful BookTok attempt, and then wonder why no one’s noticing. The truth? In an overcrowded market, sometimes you need to step a little outside the lines to get seen. This livestream of the Author Culture Podcast with special guest J.J. Johnson is all about low-risk, high-creativity marketing moves that help authors stand out without burning ...
Jul 02, 2025•1 hr 21 min
This one’s personal: what I’m reading, what I’m writing, and how I’m navigating the creative chaos. In this episode, I share a peek inside my current author life—including how community, covers, and conferences are playing a big part in my process right now. You’ll hear: -My upcoming release – The Veracin Blade (aka, “the book that just. WOUDN’T. END”)-My TBR stack and reading habits – including fave book features-Why I’m building journals to pair with my books-The joy of showing up and connecti...
Jun 26, 2025•27 min
You are not behind. You are not too late. You are not a failure because another author just hit 100K in sales. 🎙️ In this episode of Author Culture, I get raw about mindset, marketing, and the hard-but-true fact that your worth isn’t measured by someone else’s metrics. Takeaways * A healthy mindset is key to effective book marketing. * Jealousy and envy can disrupt an author's journey. * Success is subjective and varies for each author. * One author's success does not diminish another's potenti...
Jun 18, 2025•13 min
In this episode, Janeen Ippolito explores the ongoing debate of book versus movie adaptations, discussing the challenges and successes of translating beloved stories to the big screen. She reflects on various adaptations, including the recent live-action version of 'How to Train Your Dragon,' and considers the perspectives of authors regarding creative control in adaptations. The conversation delves into how adaptations can impact the original narrative and the audience's reception, ultimately q...
Jun 12, 2025•11 min
Need help writing stories that are as emotionally deep as they are action-packed? In this episode, Janeen and A.C. Williams explore how to bring humor, mental health, and character growth into the heat of sci-fi and fantasy plots. They offer practical tips for authors who want to write with more heart, without losing momentum or reader engagement. Plus, they break down what the Marvel movie Thunderbolts teaches us about group dynamics, healing from trauma in a group, and ensemble casts. Key Topi...
Jun 05, 2025•1 hr 19 min
In this episode, I discuss the decision-making process for authors considering whether to write a standalone book or a series. Rather than just giving you hard and fast answers, I offer three key questions that you can answer to figure out your next best step. These questions emphasize the importance of understanding one's creative process, genre expectations, and writing speed. * Consider if your book idea can expand into a series. * Binge reading is popular; think about reader preferences. * C...
May 28, 2025•22 min
In this engaging conversation, Janeen Ippolito and J.M. Hackman explore the resurgence of fairy tale retellings, particularly in the context of science fiction. They discuss the blending of genres, the challenges and rewards of writing, and the importance of character development. Hackman shares her journey as an author, her transition from portal fantasy to fairy tales, and the unique aspects of her latest work, a Little Red Riding retelling called 'All the Wild Hearts.' Plus, Jill answers the ...
May 21, 2025•43 min
In this conversation, I explore the themes of seriousness versus silliness in science fiction and fantasy, using the TV show Andor as a focal point. I discuss how the show's gritty realism contrasts with traditional world-building elements, questioning the critique biases that favor serious, “realistic” narratives over creative ones. The conversation also delves into the balance of light and dark moments in storytelling, advocating for a more nuanced approach to fiction that embraces both depth ...
May 15, 2025•17 min
In this episode, I get real about book cover designs and when it's time to make a change. While your first book cover might feel like an important statement about your work, the truth is: you're not married to it! Over time, things change. Your brand may evolve, the market shifts, and sometimes, what worked at first no longer resonates with your audience. Publishers have been rebranding and redesigning covers for years—and so can you. I break down the importance of being flexible and strategic w...
May 07, 2025•27 min
In this conversation, special guest Sue A. Fairchild and I discuss the essential aspects of starting and running a successful editing business. We explore the importance of understanding one's purpose in editing, the necessary investments in education and time, and the critical questions aspiring editors should ask themselves. The discussion also covers identifying specific editing skills, determining pricing and speed, and the significance of building strong relationships with authors. If you w...
Apr 30, 2025•39 min
In this conversation, I discuss the challenges and strategies for authors navigating collaborative writing projects, such as anthologies and multi-author series. I emphasize the importance of maintaining a unique voice while adhering to project parameters and goals. The discussion includes practical tips for authors to set their own objectives, understand the expectations of collaborative projects, and utilize the 'same and different' method to create compelling stories that resonate with reader...
Apr 24, 2025•17 min
Join Laura L. Zimmerman and me in this livestream as we explore the intricate world of dystopian fiction, discuss the themes and elements that define the genre, and shamelessly discuss all things Hunger Games. We discuss what draws readers to dystopian fiction, how allegories are key to creating memorable stories, and the need for compelling secondary genres to make a story sing. And then we also discuss our favorite Hunger Games characters and why Sunrise on the Reaping gutted us in the best wa...
Apr 17, 2025•1 hr 12 min
In this episode of the Author Culture Podcast, I discuss the complexities of using allegories in storytelling I emphasize the importance of understanding the power and potential pitfalls of allegories, the implications of casting choices in TV and movie adaptations, and the need for care to respect authorial intent. Plus, my examples are the latest Snow White adaptation and the rumors about Aslan’s voice actor being female - so some hot takes are included here in my usual sane, healthy, and fact...
Apr 09, 2025•25 min
In last week’s episode, I helped you walk through a quarterly pruning. In this one, it’s time to share about mine!Includes how Substack is going, updates on her latest work in progress (and how you can learn from my mistake), what’s happening with my world building series, and what’s been on my reading stack. Tune in and let’s hang out! Prefer to read? Click the transcript button on the Substack page - you can read straight through or use the transcript to skip around on the video. This is a pub...
Apr 02, 2025•12 min
So it’s the end of the first quarter in 2025. How are those goals? Knocking them out of the park? Felt like you got knocked around instead? Either way, this episode is for you to help you assess what you planned, what actually happened, and what to do next. By reflecting on what works and what doesn't, us authors can streamline our efforts and find a balance between our author goals and having an actual life outside of them (while still finding success). Prefer to read? Click the transcript butt...
Mar 26, 2025•18 min
In this engaging livestream conversation, H.L. Burke (Heidi) and I explore the intricacies of writing superhero fiction, discussing the implications of superpowers, the role of government, and the moral dilemmas faced by characters. We delve into the unique challenges of marketing superhero stories, the importance of character development, and the dynamics of building a dedicated audience. The discussion also highlights the upcoming anthologies featuring new voices in the superhero genre, emphas...
Mar 19, 2025•49 min
Just read books in your genre, and you’ll “get it.” Right? Sometimes it’s not so easy - but I’m here with my secret sauce tips to make doing genre research a simple and (and even fun) process. I cover methods for selecting books for research, analyzing genre elements such as tropes, character arcs, and world-building, and the crucial phrase I always ask myself when figuring out what makes a book genre really work. Prefer to read? Click the transcript button on the Substack page - you can read st...
Mar 12, 2025•16 min
In this conversation, I explore the shifting landscape of world building in science fiction and fantasy, including a comparison of simpler world building in romantasy with the enduring appeal of complex world building in other subgenres. I also offer some marketing thoughts on the increasing reader divide between complex and simple world building. Plus, how author preferences can shift between one or the other. Prefer to read? Click the transcript button on the Substack page - you can read strai...
Mar 05, 2025•9 min
In this conversation, I break down my 6 key factors when evaluating which book events I sign up for every year. Bonus: I also dig into how to do book events when managing limited energy levels (and a budget). This episode includes: -Why high foot traffic does not guarantee sales-Evaluating the theme and guests of the event for potential connections-What to consider when looking at event costs-Recovery time for long book events Plus, why new authors might want to hold off on big ticket events. Wh...
Feb 26, 2025•25 min
In this conversation, I discuss the recent changes in Amazon's Kindle ebook policies, addressing the concerns raised by readers and authors alike. I emphasize the importance of understanding the nature of digital ownership and licensing, the cultural implications of these changes, and offer practical advice for both readers and authors navigating this evolving landscape. The conversation aims to clarify misconceptions and equip listeners with the knowledge to make informed decisions about this n...
Feb 23, 2025•29 min
In this episode, Janeen Ippolito reflects on the challenges and expectations that come with the New Year, particularly for authors. She discusses the importance of evaluating one's progress and setting realistic goals, emphasizing the need for a personalized creative calendar that aligns with individual rhythms. Janeen also shares her strategies for streamlining content creation and managing social media presence, encouraging listeners to let go of unnecessary pressures and focus on what truly m...
Jan 01, 2025•25 min
In this conversation, Janeen Ippolito discusses the critical role of theme and message in storytelling. She emphasizes that understanding and effectively communicating these elements can significantly enhance a book's connection with readers. The discussion covers the definitions of theme and message, their importance in narrative structure, and practical tips for authors to identify and convey these concepts in their writing. Janeen also highlights the value of beta readers in the editing proce...
Dec 18, 2024•33 min
In this conversation, Janeen Ippolito shares her personal journey through the challenges of writing, emphasizing the importance of humility, faith, and patience. She discusses the struggles of completing her latest book, the lessons learned in waiting for inspiration, and the significance of trusting God throughout the creative process. Janeen encourages writers to embrace both the joys and difficulties of storytelling, reminding them that their worth is not tied to their work but to their faith...
Nov 27, 2024•13 min
In this episode, Janeen Ippolito discusses the intricate relationship between world building and genre in science fiction and fantasy writing. She emphasizes the importance of understanding genre definitions, cultural influences, and reader expectations. The conversation provides practical tips for authors on how to navigate the complexities of genre research and effectively connect with their target audience. • World building is essential for defining genre in speculative fiction. • Genres are ...
Nov 20, 2024•27 min
In this episode of the Author Culture Podcast, Janeen Ippolito explores the balance between writing faster and writing better. She discusses the importance of understanding one's writing process, the trade-offs involved in increasing word count, and practical tips for enhancing writing speed without sacrificing quality. Plus, why your word count speed might just come down to font choice. Writing faster doesn't always mean writing better. It's essential to assess if increasing word count really m...
Nov 13, 2024•20 min
In this conversation, Janeen Ippolito explores the pivotal questions authors face regarding the significance of their work. She emphasizes the importance of asking not just why their writing matters, but whether it matters at all. Through personal anecdotes and insights, she encourages authors to confront uncomfortable truths about their motivations and the changing landscape of the publishing industry. The discussion highlights the necessity of self-discovery, adaptability, and finding deeper r...
Nov 01, 2024•19 min
Hey there! In this episode I share some of my recent (and not-so-recent) experiences with pivoting my focus and what that means going forward. I'm going to be closing down some things (this podcast is staying), shifting over others, and stepping into some areas that have been really on my heart lately. This is going to be a new, highly consolidated focus that I'm super-excited about - and of course, I'm sharing how you can take a look at your priorities and make solid adjustments as well. Includ...
Oct 15, 2024•17 min
*waves* Hey there! Anyone feeling data and info overload? I'm right there with you! And in this quick episode I offer an alternative to getting lost in the analytics, likes, subscribes, and all the rest. Learn one crucial tip for sifting through all the info, and how to prioritize your goals and health to keep author life sustainable. It's time to reclaim your confidence and clarity. See you in the episode! This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get acc...
Oct 01, 2024•13 min
Want to do your writing and marketing easier, faster, and better? It’s time to create a process you love for author success–and I’m here to help you start right now! Don’t miss this episode of the Author Elevate podcast as I share some tips to research your process and narrow it down to something that works for your unique brain. Includes awesome word-nerding (vocabulary appreciation), one essential acronym, and how to adapt what others are doing to your own process! This is a public episode. If...
Sep 24, 2024•28 min
