Writer Craft Podcast

Welcome to the Writer Craft Podcast, a show about creativity and craft. On the Writer Craft Podcast, we help authors stay motivated and inspired, finish their books, and show them how to analyze and diagnose areas of challenge in their manuscripts once it's written.

The Book You Were Born to Write: Legacy Crafting, Part 3 of 3 (Ep195) 08/13/2025

The Book You Were Born to Write: Legacy Crafting, Part 3 of 3 (Ep195) Segment 1 (Announcements/Author Updates): (Valerie): hard stuff at home (sharing that with my patrons, and a little on social media) (Erick): What are you reading? Valerie: Just finished: Austin Kleon's (Rick Rubin) and Anne Abel's new book s (out in September .. She'll be on the podcast again in October). (Not ready to give up on them, but struggling to finish them:) by Oliver Burkeman; (Alexandra Horowitz) ; Julie Leong Erick: Segment 2 (Resources/Tips/Tidbits): Tidbit #1: • Tidbit #2: Segment 3 (Main Topic): Notes: Today’s episode is about legacy. Not the legacy of awards or bestseller lists. But the kind of legacy that changes hearts. That shifts the field. That ripples out long after you’re gone. When you write your book — the real one — you’re not just capturing information. You’re encoding energy. You’re creating a guide. A lighthouse. An invitation. Your book becomes a place someone can go to feel less alone. It becomes a spell, a balm, a declaration. It says, "I’ve been there too. And here’s what I learned." You’re not just writing a book. You’re writing your book. And that distinction changes everything. Sometimes people come to me and say, “I just want to get it out of my head.” “I want to use it as a business card.” “I want to boost my visibility.” And all of those reasons are valid. In fact, your book can help grow your reach. It can become a doorway to speaking, teaching, building a body of work. But here’s the thing: When you write from alignment… from soul… from truth… You don’t just get visibility. You get peace. You get clarity. You get momentum, energy, fulfillment. You become more you. Because you’re not performing. You’re not proving. You’re remembering. And that’s when your book becomes a legacy. Not because of how many copies it sells — But because of how many lives it touches. Aligned Author isn’t a writing bootcamp. It’s a sacred, strategic container for birthing the book you were born to write. This is where structure meets intuition. Where craft meets soul. Where resistance meets ritual. Inside Aligned Author, you receive: A sacred 60–90 minute strategy session to clarify your soul’s vision A custom action plan that honors your unique creative rhythm Weekly 1:1 coaching sessions (recorded for your reflection) Story structure guidance + intuitive insight + business strategy Meditations, writing exercises, and oracle-based support Ongoing mentorship and accountability — weekly, monthly, and via direct messaging Access to group calls for reflection and celebration And most importantly… You’ll walk away with a book that feels like truth. Not just something you wrote… but something you became. So if you’re ready — If you’re done circling the dream… If you’re ready to stop doubting and start devoting... I’d be honored to walk beside you. You can book your Soul Strategy Session today at , or DM me @valerieihsan on Instagram. Your story is sacred. Your voice is needed. And your book is waiting to be written — not someday, but now. Thank you for joining me on this journey. Whether you choose to write with me, or on your own, I hope you remember this: You are not here to write like everyone else. You are here to write like you. Because the book you were born to write… Was born for someone who’s waiting to read it. Until we meet again — Be brave. Be true. Be writing. Next Episode: From Reserved to Ravishing: Writing Spicy Scenes That Still Feel True to You (with guest HR Cole) And don't forget: Go to to schedule a free consultation to see if Aligned Author is right for you. Get 48% off the Magic Mind : and use Valerie20 at checkout. #magicmind #mentalwealth #mentalperformance Find Us: Valerie's Linktree: (Find Passion Planner discount codes here.) Erick's Linktree link: /episode/index/show/theindieauthorlife/id/37802540

The Book You Were Born to Write: Where Ego Meets Soul, Part 2 of 3 (Ep194) 08/07/2025

The Book You Were Born to Write: Where Ego Meets Soul, Part 2 of 3 (Ep194) Main Topic: Today’s episode is all about Ego Meeting Soul (the inner vs outer world of writing) In our last episode of the mini podcast series The Book You Were Born to Write, we listened for the first whispers of the book inside you. We honored that quiet knowing — the call to finally write the book that’s been circling your spirit. And today… we’re stepping into the next phase. The moment when the whisper gets louder… And fear shows up, too. Because the truth is: Wanting to be seen… and fearing that visibility… Often live side by side in the writer’s heart. PATREON: Thank you to our existing patrons for believing in our work offline and here in the podcast. Become a patron of the arts at for books, writing instruction, coaching, and planning. Also, the Planner Plays and Monthly Reflections are always free for all members on my Patreon page. But I don't list them as Public", so click correct tier for updated links, dates, and cancellations. Go to for short stories in the paranormal mystery genre. Magic Mind Mental Performance Shot and Sleep Shot. Up to 48% off your first subscription or 20% off one time purchases with code VALERIE20 at checkout You can claim it at: https://magicmind.com/VALERIE20 Segment 1 (Announcements/Author Updates): (Valerie): hard stuff at home (sharing that with my patrons, and a little on social media) (Erick): What are you reading? Valerie: Just finished: Austin Kleon's (Rick Rubin) and Anne Abel's new book s (out in September .. She'll be on the podcast again in October). (Not ready to give up on them, but struggling to finish them:) by Oliver Burkeman; (Alexandra Horowitz) ; Julie Leong Erick: Segment 2 (Resources/Tips/Tidbits): Tidbit #1: • Tidbit #2: Segment 3 (Main Topic): Notes: Let’s talk about what really stops us from writing. It’s not usually time. It’s not lack of talent. It’s not even discipline. It’s the shadow voices that rise up when we start getting close to something real. Things like: “What if people think I’m full of myself?” “Who am I to write this?” “What if I pour my soul onto the page and nobody cares?” That’s not laziness. That’s vulnerability. That’s ego doing its job — trying to protect you from pain, rejection, exposure. And I want to say this with all the tenderness I can: Your ego is not the enemy. Your ego is trying to keep you safe. It’s the part of you that learned to please, to perform, to protect. And when you start writing something true — something sacred — That part gets nervous. Because soul-led writing isn’t just about ideas. It’s about embodiment. And embodiment means being seen. But here’s the secret: You don’t need to kill the ego. You just need to give it a new job. Let it become the steward of structure. Let it help you organize your message. Let it take care of the outline, the deadlines, the goals. Let your soul guide the content. Let your ego support the container. This is what I call writing from alignment. Structure + spirit. Mastery + mystery. Ego + soul. Let me tell you a quick story. Earlier this year, I was working on creating content for my audience. I felt alive while think about it — raw, truthful, exposed. But every time I sat down to finish it or thought about posting it, I froze. I wasn’t stuck because of the craft. I was stuck because I was afraid. Afraid of what people would think. Afraid it would change how I was seen. Afraid it would change who I was allowed to be. So I did what I now teach my clients to do: I paused. I lit a candle. I asked: “Who is this content for?” “What do they need to hear?” “What am I protecting by staying silent?” And my soul said: “This story is medicine. But only if you let it be seen.” So I finished it. I sent the email; I've been posting the content. And the response? Emails. Messages. Tears. Connection. Not because it was perfect. But because it was true. That is the power of writing from soul. It’s not about proving. It’s about revealing. And when ego and soul are in right relationship, your book becomes unstoppable. So I’ve created a little tool to help you check in with where you are in that dance. It’s a simple quiz — part journal worksheet, part self-discovery ritual — called: “Where Is Your Ego Helping… and Where Is It Hijacking?” It’ll help you recognize: When you’re over-editing out of fear When your visibility blocks are in charge When your ego is actually your greatest asset You can download it for free at And if you’re feeling ready to move deeper into this work — If you know the book inside you is real, but the fear feels louder than the fire right now — I’d love to offer you a Soul Strategy Session. It’s a 60–90 minute sacred space, just you and me. We’ll talk about what’s calling to be written. What’s standing in your way. And what aligned next step will open the gates. You’ll leave with clarity, a custom plan, and a little magic. You can book that now at or send me a DM @valerieihsan. You’re not behind. You’re unfolding. Your story is sacred. Your fear is human. And your book is waiting — not for your perfection, but for your yes. Next episode, we’re talking about legacy. The kind that lives in hearts, in hands, in pages passed down like medicine. Until then… Be gentle. Be honest. Be listening. Next episode: is about legacy. Not the legacy of awards or bestseller lists. But the kind of legacy that changes hearts. That shifts the field. That ripples out long after you’re gone. /episode/index/show/theindieauthorlife/id/37723195

The Book You Were Born to Write: Hearing the Call, Part 1 of 3 (Ep193) 07/24/2025

The Book You Were Born to Write: Hearing the Call, Part 1 of 3 (Ep193) Today’s episode is all about Hearing the Call. That moment when the idea of writing a book stops being a far-off fantasy... and starts feeling like destiny. You might not feel ready. You might not know what you want to say yet. But if you're listening to this right now — I have a hunch that something is stirring. That stirring? That’s your soul whispering: It’s time. PATREON: Thank you to our existing patrons for believing in our work offline and here in the podcast. Become a patron of the arts at for books, writing instruction, coaching, and planning. Also, the Planner Plays and Monthly Reflections are always free for all members on my Patreon page. But I don't list them as Public", so click correct tier for updated links, dates, and cancellations. Go to for short stories in the paranormal mystery genre. Magic Mind Mental Performance Shot and Sleep Shot. Up to 48% off your first subscription or 20% off one time purchases with code VALERIE20 at checkout You can claim it at: https://magicmind.com/VALERIE20 Segment 1 (Announcements/Author Updates): (Valerie): playing around with IG stories quite a bit, check it out @valerieihsan; Aligned Author: A bespoke book coaching journey for soul-led experts, creatives, and writers ready to channel their life's work into a living, breathing legacy.) I created Aligned Author to provide a sacred space for authors to truly understand what has been holding them back, to learn how to merge the soul with the ego, to live and create in that duality, and to discover their own superpowers. (Erick): What are you reading? Valerie: Just finished: (Elin Hilderbrand) (Shayna and Dana; DayLuna); (Not ready to give up on them, but struggling to finish them:) by Oliver Burkeman; (Alexandra Horowitz) ; Julie Leong Erick: Segment 2 (Resources/Tips/Tidbits): Tidbit #1: • Tidbit #2: Segment 3 (Main Topic): Welcome to The Book You Were Born to Write — a sacred podcast series for soul-led entrepreneurs who know… deep in their bones… that a book is asking to come through. Not just any book. Not a content machine. Not a regurgitation of things you’ve already taught. But the book. The one that’s been flickering in the corners of your dreams, tapping on your shoulder during still moments, and sighing in your chest when you imagine a life fully expressed. Notes: This is what I call the Soul Whisper. It’s the part of you that knows… There’s something you haven’t said yet. There’s a story still vibrating in your ribcage. There’s a message that could outlive you—if you let it. But then… the thoughts come in. “Who am I to write this?” “I don’t have time.” “It’s all been said before.” “What if no one cares?” And I want to pause here and say something important: You are not behind. You are not broken. You are not too late. You are exactly on time. These doubts are not evidence that the dream is wrong. They are evidence that it matters. Here’s what I’ve learned in all my years as a coach, writer, The desire to write a book doesn’t come to everyone. If it’s coming to you, it’s for a reason. And even if you don’t feel ready… Even if you’re not sure what the book is about yet… Even if you’re scared — Your book already knows you. It’s been circling you for years. (Big Magic idea) And the whisper you’re hearing now? That’s the sound of your soul making contact. Here’s what I want you to know: You don’t have to write every day. You don’t need to have the whole thing outlined. You don’t need to quit your business or disappear into a writing cave for three years. What you need is this: Stillness. Curiosity. And a commitment to listen. That’s what this first phase is about. Not rushing into productivity. But devotion. Not output… but alignment. If this is resonating with you — if your body is saying “yes” even while your mind is saying “wait” — then I invite you to deepen the conversation. I’ve created a free journaling ritual for you, called “The Soul Whisper Pages.” It’s a set of guided prompts and a short audio meditation that will help you connect to the essence of the book that wants to come through. You can download that now at . And before we close, I want to leave you with a question: If your book could speak to you right now… what would it say? Write it down. No editing. Just channel. Next episode: Next time, we’ll explore what happens after you say yes—when ego and soul begin their wild and necessary dance. It’s vulnerable. It’s thrilling. And it’s where your book truly begins to take form. Until then… Trust the whisper. It’s not going anywhere. It’s waiting for you to answer. And don't forget: Go to to schedule a free consultation to see if Aligned Author is right for you. Get 48% off the Magic Mind : and use Valerie20 at checkout. #magicmind #mentalwealth #mentalperformance Find Us: Valerie's Linktree: (Find Passion Planner discount codes here.) Erick's Linktree link: Patreons: /episode/index/show/theindieauthorlife/id/37538405

Crowdfunding Your book: Why Kickstarter Might Be the Perfect Launchpad, with guest JP Rindfleisch IX (Ep192) 07/17/2025

Crowdfunding Your book: Why Kickstarter Might Be the Perfect Launchpad, with guest JP Rindfleisch IX (Ep192) Main Topic: Crowdfunding Your Book: Why Kickstarter Might Be the Perfect Launchpad, with guest J.P. Rindfleisch IX PATREON: Thank you to our existing patrons for believing in our work offline and here in the podcast. Become a patron of the arts at for books, writing instruction, coaching, and planning. Also, the Planner Plays and Monthly Reflections are always free for all members on my Patreon page. But I don't list them as Public", so click correct tier for updated links, dates, and cancellations. Go to for short stories in the paranormal mystery genre. Magic Mind Mental Performance Shot and Sleep Shot. Up to 48% off your first subscription or 20% off one time purchases with code VALERIE20 at checkout You can claim it at: https://magicmind.com/VALERIE20 Segment 1 (Announcements/Author Updates): (Valerie): creating content for marketing, preparing to warm up my ice cold email list by writing three personal stories in letter format to explain my absence and reengage with them, planning a three-part podcast series called The Book You Were Born to Write, so look for that coming up next week. Trying to show up on IG every day. (Biz coach recs) • Aligned Author: A bespoke book coaching journey for soul-led experts, creatives, and writers ready to channel their life's work into a living, breathing legacy.) I created Aligned Author to provide a sacred space for authors to truly understand what has been holding them back, to learn how to merge the soul with the ego, to live and create in that duality, and to discover their own superpowers. JP: 3 months FT author, TikTok shop main stream of income; The Alchemist Baker of Rosen-- (Erick): What are you reading? JP: (Kay Synclaire) Valerie: Just finished: (Alyssa Cole) (Shayna and Dana; DayLuna); (Elin Hilderbrand) (Not ready to give up on them, but struggling to finish them:) by Oliver Burkeman; (Alexandra Horowitz) ; Julie Leong Erick: Segment 2 (Resources/Tips/Tidbits): Tidbit #1: • Tidbit #2: Segment 3 (Main Topic): Talking with guest ABOUT Hi, I’m JP Rindfleisch IX—author of cozy, queer fantasy and strange fiction where whimsy meets the weird. My stories often explore grief, transformation, and queer joy, wrapped in a little magic, a dash of mischief, and a whole lot of heart. I’m the author of and . I also co-write , a paranormal comedy series, and the . I call Rockford, Illinois home, where I founded , a growing community of 80+ local authors and creatives who support each other’s craft. When I’m not writing, you can usually find me wandering forest trails, stirring vegan kitchen witchery (potatoes-as-nacho-cheese is a specialty), or hosting writing sprints and cozy chaos over on . I live with a very opinionated husky and an even more talkative African grey parrot. Both have strong opinions about storytelling. Thanks for stopping by. Make yourself at home—browse the shop, grab a tale (or two), and if you sit still long enough, I just might tell you a story. Notes: Let's talk about Kickstarters. Last month you had 338 backers pledge $18,040 for your first kickstarter. All stretch goals met, funded in seven minutes ($1000) Why crowdfunding? good feedback and engagement with Tapas (and Kindle Vella). Kickstarter backer himself. Researched kickstarter by interviewing authors that had done it. Watch the kickstarters and how they interacted. Sacha Black helped him with good advice. (Find her as author .) Campaign planning: tiers need to be financially responsible; stretch goals; What makes it special HERE on KS. Steps to a Kickstarter (KS): 1. Set up "Notify me on Launch" to collect followers (sudo-preorder) (4 months to a year) Maybe the amount of followers is who pledged? You don't have to have all the pieces ready before hitting "pre" launch. 1.5 (order basic sample copy for physical imagery) before hitting Launch. (Optional) 2. Look for successful models on KS to copy as template. Use Canva for images needed. Six hours to upload copy and photos for all the add ons (backlist). (~20 hours total?) 3. To keep campaign active and live, update often (every two days). On Twitch every day to incentivize and hype. Live streaming on Twitch and IG to pitch fast. Find ways to grab people. Think through livestream campaigns in future so not repeating self. (Can have live stretch-goals and they don't have to be monetary.) Hype is about showing up. TikToks everyday, and refining what say and ingraining what I want to say. Productivity streams on Twitch helped practice those talking times in front of camera. Learned how to fill the dead air/space. 4. Backing drives ups the popularity of the campaign. (More backers = shows up in recommendations (for 1st time campaigners), and can get into categories (through review process). Projects we love list is great. Hype or backing helps it gets seen, and then KS sends emails to their list, too. 2nd campaigners get KS to email previous backers that you have a new campaign coming out. 5. Launch time: watching the numbers, handling messages and comments that come in, admin, verbiage changed for unlocks and photo switches, write updates. Can use page after launch is over as a newsletter sort-of. Add links to updates to invite them to your newsletters. Opt-in to newsletter in final survey. 6. Tiers planning: Think through what they will be, and how your backers will interact with that. (Tiers from JP's campaign: Digital, PB special edition, HC special edition, HC with prints and stickers, resellers or clubs 5 copies, HC+painting and print. ) You want super-high tier because most people buy in the middle. How long to run the campaign? 30 days max. (17-20 days average) Saggy middle/plateaus are common. Miscellaneous: Add-ons are different than stretch goals: All your backlist books should be add-ons. Stretch goals can also fund (unlocked) add-ons. Wanted to add artwork. Kickstarter helps prove people want your idea. Collector's editions. Funding goal: what it would cost to print and ship the book. (Could include editing and cover design) Need to cost out the print run for a number to use. Discoverability: Hard on KS. Twitch fans productivity stream become street team to build following on Kickstarter. Use Kickstarter for Authors FB group. (Like newsletter swaps/literary citizenship.) Shop: And don't forget: Go to to schedule a free consultation to see if Aligned Author is right for you. Get 48% off the Magic Mind : and use Valerie20 at checkout. #magicmind #mentalwealth #mentalperformance /episode/index/show/theindieauthorlife/id/37446865

How to Start Your Author Business on a Budget (Ep191) 06/25/2025

How to Start Your Author Business on a Budget (Ep191) Main Topic: Start Your Author Business on a Budget ($0, $200, $500) Up to 48% off your first subscription or 20% off one time purchases with code VALERIE20 at checkout You can claim it at: https://magicmind.com/VALERIE20 #magicmind #mentalwealth #mentalperformance PATREON: Thank you to our existing patrons for believing in our work offline and here in the podcast. Become a patron of the arts at for books, writing instruction, coaching, and planning. Also, the Planner Plays and Monthly Reflections are always free for all members on my Patreon page. But I don't list them as Public", so click correct tier for updated links, dates, and cancellations. I just put up a new schedule last week for the upcoming months. Go to for short stories in the paranormal mystery genre. Segment 1 (Announcements/Author Updates): (Valerie): creating content for marketing, preparing to warm up my ice cold email list by writing three personal stories in letter format to explain my absence and reengage with them. • Aligned Author: A bespoke book coaching journey for soul-led experts, creatives, and writers ready to channel their life's work into a living, breathing legacy.) I created Aligned Author to provide a sacred space for authors to truly understand what has been holding them back, to learn how to merge the soul with the ego, to live and create in that duality, and to discover their own super powers. (Erick): for sale now; June busy (scheduling new clients, finishing anthology); vacation planning; republishing a book What are you reading? Valerie: (Monica Wood) (Not ready to give up on them, but struggling to finish them:) by Oliver Burkeman; (Alexandra Horowitz) ; Julie Leong Erick: (Charlie J. Stephens) ; on audio (short horror); (mystery); (Christopher Bueman) Segment 2 (Resources/Tips/Tidbits): Tidbit #1: • Tidbit #2: Segment 3 (Main Topic): Budget Author Business (Three Tiers: $0, $200, $500) What is moving the needle today? Leverage what you have. Ask for favors/trades. $0 + sweat equity: LinkedIn or Medium for web presence/blog; free mailchimp landing page and mailing list; reader magnet (pdf, royalty-free stock image); FB professional page as website for short time; active on social media, Reddit, online forums, FB groups, Slack, Discord (needs thick skin and a sense of value). $200 + sweat equity: website (domain name and free theme) ($100); mailchimp (free); branding (free Canva); reader magnet with cover ($100); (any leftover $ for ads education for visibility) $500 + sweat equity: website ($150), mailerlite/converkit ($100), reader magnet w/ professional cover (stock) ($50-100 + sweat equity); branding (CanvaPro, headshot), or education (learn how to optimize, ads course) And don't forget: Go to to schedule a free consultation to see if Aligned Author is right for you. Get 48% off the Magic Mind : and use Valerie20 at checkout. #magicmind #mentalwealth #mentalperformance /episode/index/show/theindieauthorlife/id/37153050

Staying Productive While Embracing the Chaos and Boredom of Summer (Ep190) 06/12/2025

Staying Productive While Embracing the Chaos and Boredom of Summer (Ep190) Episode 190 of the podcast and it's June 11, 2025 as we record this. Main Topic: Embrace the Chaos and Boredom of Summer Up to 48% off your first subscription or 20% off one time purchases with code VALERIE20 at checkout You can claim it at: https://magicmind.com/VALERIE20 #magicmind #mentalwealth #mentalperformance PATREON: Thank you to our existing patrons for believing in our work offline and here in the podcast. Become a patron of the arts at for books, writing instruction, coaching, and planning. Also, the Planner Plays and Monthly Reflections are always free for all members on my Patreon page. But I don't list them as Public", so click correct tier for updated links, dates, and cancellations. I just put up a new schedule last week for the upcoming months. Go to for short stories in the paranormal mystery genre. Segment 1 (Announcements/Author Updates): (Valerie): • Aligned Author: A bespoke book coaching journey for soul-led experts, creatives, and writers ready to channel their life's work into a living, breathing legacy.) I created Aligned Author to provide a sacred space for authors to truly understand what has been holding them back, to learn how to merge the soul with the ego, to live and create in that duality, and to discover their own super powers. (Erick): for sale now; preplanning for the summer, "screw around" days on the river, finishing energy on the little things before they fall through the cracks What are you reading? Valerie: (Monica Wood) (Not ready to give up on them, but struggling to finish them:) by Oliver Burkeman; (Alexandra Horowitz) ; Julie Leong Erick: (Charlie J. Stephens) ; on audio (short horror); (mystery) Segment 2 (Resources/Tips/Tidbits): Tidbit #1: • Tidbit #2: Segment 3 (Main Topic): Chaos of summer is real And don't forget: Go to to schedule a free consultation to see if Aligned Author is right for you. Get 48% off the Magic Mind : and use Valerie20 at checkout. #magicmind #mentalwealth #mentalperformance Next episode: Find Us: Valerie's Linktree: (Find Passion Planner discount codes here.) Erick's Linktree link: Patreons: Tools: ProWriting Aid: (affiliate link) /episode/index/show/theindieauthorlife/id/36964580

Using Unconventional Thinking to Tackle Creative Blocks with guest David Carson (Ep189) 06/07/2025

Using Unconventional Thinking to Tackle Creative Blocks with guest David Carson (Ep189) Using Unconventional Thinking to Tackle Creative Blocks with guest David Carson Up to 48% off your first subscription or 20% off one time purchases with code VALERIE20 at checkout You can claim it at: https://magicmind.com/VALERIE20 #magicmind #mentalwealth #mentalperformance PATREON: Thank you to our existing patrons for believing in our work offline and here in the podcast. Become a patron of the arts at for books, writing instruction, coaching, and planning. Also, the Planner Plays and Monthly Reflections are always free for all members on my Patreon page. But I don't list them as Public", so click correct tier for updated links, dates, and cancellations. I just put up a new schedule last week for the upcoming months. Go to for short stories in the paranormal mystery genre. Segment 1 (Announcements/Author Updates): (Valerie): catching up from being in Florida. Book club. Cleaned my son's kitchen, dog training started, email past retreat participants to personally invite them to the new coaching program. • Aligned Author: A bespoke book coaching journey for soul-led experts, creatives, and writers ready to channel their life's work into a living, breathing legacy.) I created Aligned Author to provide a sacred space for authors to truly understand what has been holding them back, to learn how to merge the soul with the ego, to live and create in that duality, and to discover their own super powers. • Creating a new freebie for my mailing list and patrons (patrons always get everything 1st, even before the mailing list subscribers). It's a three-part micro masterclass on story structure, character arc, and universal truth stmt/theme (Erick): for sale now; publishing anthology soon; updating back Fake My Run for Strava; Much Music (from Canada); Fuse (MTV competitor) What are you reading? Valerie: (Monica Wood) (Not ready to give up on them, but struggling to finish them:) by Oliver Burkeman; (Alexandra Horowitz) ; Julie Leong Erick: (Charlie J. Stephens) David: ( (Donald Hoffman) ; • Segment 2 (Resources/Tips/Tidbits): Tidbit #1: • Tidbit #2: Segment 3 (Main Topic): Using Unconventional Thinking to Tackle Creative Blocks is an entrepreneur and marketing innovator whose groundbreaking companies and products have impacted millions worldwide. Renowned for his expertise in creative thinking, Carson has collaborated with global giants like American Express, Nike, Coca-Cola, and IKEA, as well as cutting-edge advertising agencies including Mother and Ogilvy. His unconventional approach has not only shaped iconic brands but also challenged traditional notions of problem-solving in business and beyond. Dumb-Thinking makes you smarter. "Smart" prevents the creative thinking. Strive to have "dumb ideas." Exercises to teach brain to think of dumb ideas: ways to think Example: George Castanza Model (Do the Opposite of Everything you typically do) How develop that curiosity? Creation: What if? To follow the curiosity. It may seem absurd, but go deeper. Make it worse. Improv (Yes, And for collaborating) Use Chat GPT as a collaborator. It wants to be "smart," to make them "illogical": what is a commonality between extreme ideas, or create a new idea from two opposite things. Colab Culture. If it's weird enough, it gets me curious. Lean in. Example: Make it Worse (to create new things, learned how to NOT do it, shake up brain) When start projects, start with mental models first, what you've written isn't that precious, too afraid to change it. Test the dumb idea with feedback. What's the fastest way to test? Tik-tok, open mic, writing group, social media ads, reddit, Dumbify: summer Podcast: Dumbify (dumb ideas that have changed culture) The Weird and the Eerie Mask under a mask as a plot device. Sign up for David's Newsletter: Dumbify () Look for the podcast next month or two, and the book this summer. And don't forget: Go to to schedule a free consultation to see if Aligned Author is right for you. Get 48% off the Magic Mind : and use Valerie20 at checkout. #magicmind #mentalwealth #mentalperformance Next episode: Find Us: Valerie's Linktree: (Find Passion Planner discount codes here.) Erick's Linktree link: Patreons: Tools: ProWriting Aid: (affiliate link) /episode/index/show/theindieauthorlife/id/36899905

Book Coaching is Next-Level Book Editing (Ep188) 05/28/2025

Book Coaching is Next-Level Book Editing (Ep188) Up to 48% off your first subscription or 20% off one time purchases with code VALERIE20 at checkout You can claim it at: https://magicmind.com/VALERIE20 #magicmind #mentalwealth #mentalperformance PATREON: Thank you to our existing patrons for believing in our work offline and here in the podcast. Become a patron of the arts at for books, writing instruction, coaching, and planning. Also, the Planner Plays and Monthly Reflections are always free for all members on my Patreon page. But I don't list them as Public", so click correct tier for updated links, dates, and cancellations. I just put up a new schedule last week for the upcoming months. Go to for short stories in the paranormal mystery genre. Segment 1 (Announcements/Author Updates): (Valerie): worked on Structure and Spark . It's been great getting back into writing again. I didn't understand that burnout was stopping me before. I want to do a bit more journaling on who my ideal reader in for this book. It's for new writers writing fiction? Or for a spiritual entrepreneur ready to scale their business even higher and wider and write a book for their audience. More than a Book as Business Card; more of a calling to share everything they know on their subject. (V) I dabbled in a trunk novel looking for writing samples and examples for Structure book. (V) updating my website copy and shopping cart; refining my 1:1 book coaching offer (called Aligned Author: A bespoke book coaching journey for soul-led experts, creatives, and writers ready to channel their life's work into a living, breathing legacy.), I created Aligned Author to provide a sacred space for authors to truly understand what has been holding them back, to learn how to merge the soul with the ego, to live and create in that duality, and to discover their own super powers. and created a package for it too. I hope someone gets in there and invests in themselves in this way because it would be so fun to work with someone in that close proximity for the year really. Creating a new freebie for my mailing list and patrons (patrons always get everything 1st, even before the mailing list subscribers). It's a three-part micro masterclass on story structure, character arc, and universal truth stet/theme got back from Florida last night thinking about IG content, showing up more on my stories there, and thinking of different ways to reach my target audience/ideal client avatar. (Erick): for sale now. What are you reading? Valerie: finished (Kate Fagan) and (Sarah Penner) and The (Ruth Reichl) and now reading (Kinley Bryan) (Not ready to give up on them, but struggling to finish them:) by Oliver Burkeman; (Alexandra Horowitz) ; Julie Leong Erick: • Segment 2 (Resources/Tips/Tidbits): Tidbit #1: • Tidbit #2: Segment 3 (Main Topic): What is Book Coaching? "In the 19th century, editors worked closely with authors over long periods, helping them shape their narratives and stay accountable to the work. As publishing has evolved—splintering into traditional, hybrid, and self-publishing models—this kind of deep, sustained editorial relationship has become rare within publishing houses. Enter the book coach: part developmental editor, part strategist, part mentor. Much like the editors of the past, a modern book coach helps the writer clarify their vision, navigate doubts, refine structure and voice, and bring the book to completion—often walking with them from blank page to published work. In this way, the book coach is not just a modern convenience, but a revival of an old, sacred role." And don't forget: Get 48% off the Magic Mind : and use Valerie20 at checkout. #magicmind #mentalwealth #mentalperformance Next episode: Find Us: Valerie's Linktree: (Find Passion Planner discount codes here.) Erick's Linktree link: Patreons: /episode/index/show/theindieauthorlife/id/36751885

Anti-Hustle Culture with guest Rachel May and Emily Golden (Ep187) 05/14/2025

Anti-Hustle Culture with guest Rachel May and Emily Golden (Ep187) Main Topic: Anti-Hustle Culture with guests , book coaches and editors at Golden May Editing, and podcast hosts of the Story Magic podcast. Up to 48% off your first subscription or 20% off one time purchases with code VALERIE20 at checkout You can claim it at: https://magicmind.com/VALERIE20 #magicmind #mentalwealth #mentalperformance PATREON: Thank you to our existing patrons for believing in our work offline and here in the podcast. Become a patron of the arts at for books, writing instruction, coaching, and planning. Go to for short stories in the paranormal mystery genre. Segment 1 (Announcements/Author Updates): (Valerie): revamped website Emily: ARC just came in "Crimson Tide: Up in Molten Lights", 20K in to new book; Rachel: revising third book is slower than planned. (Erick): Preorder up for , front and back matter done What are you reading? Valerie: (Lyn Slater) (Not ready to give up on them, but struggling to finish them:) by Oliver Burkeman; (Alexandra Horowitz) ; Julie Leong Erick: (Stephen King), , (Daniel Clowes) Rachel: Cassie Mint's new book, ; the stack is waiting Emily: (Hannah Nicole Maehrer) Segment 2 (Resources/Tips/Tidbits): Tidbit #1: • Tidbit #2: Segment 3 (Main Topic): Years ago, in the days before COVID, they met on Twitter through the #WritingCommunity hashtag. As fantasy writers, they immediately hit it off through beta reading each other’s work, which evolved into critique partnering, and then a mutual fascination with writing craft. They became obsessed with learning a) how stories worked, and b) how writers’ mindsets could help or harm their progress. Together they dove head first into book coaching and editing training, which ultimately resulted in Golden May. Please welcome Rachel and Emily. Value is based in what you produce = hustle culture Pitfalls of hunger to create and make an impact on world. Make money, make a lot, make it fast Sustainable success comes from the opposite place Mindset is more important, untangle perfectionism and hustle culture Generational/societal = capitalism ranked over all; "You are only valuable and worthy if you make money." You can't rest because ... If you do more, you make more money. We aren't machines. Burnout. Less effective. Care for yourself so you CAN work. Mindset breeds shame is what drives the hustle culture . Anti-hustle is about separating mindset from the "norm." What did you do to separate and feel worthy? 1. Come down to earth: what are the stakes? Writing is not life/death situation. If I don't ..., then I'm not worthy and I'm gonna die. (Start reframe it) 2. Awareness. Hustle culture. Learn the opposite. (Amy McNee - ) Ask where these thoughts are coming from? Follow the threads. Reparenting inner child. Catch the thoughts in the moment. What's my programming? 1st thought: programming, 2nd thought: what I really believe. Talking to coworkers and family about "letting them down." 3. Join a community interested in anti-hustle. Reframe daily. 4. Devon Price "", "" (Nagaski sisters) 5. Affirmations 6. What is your brain trying to tell you? Rest is a learned thing. (Casper ter Kuile) We all rest differently. The tenants of anti-hustle culture: Worth is not tied to our output. Your success isn't determined by someone else's standards. Body and Brain deserve rest. "I don't have time to learn how to rest." Learned how to be productive in your body. And don't forget: Get 48% off the Magic Mind : and use Valerie20 at checkout. #magicmind #mentalwealth #mentalperformance Next episode: Find Us: Valerie's Linktree: (Find Passion Planner discount codes here.) Erick's Linktree link: Patreons: Tools: ProWriting Aid: (affiliate link) /episode/index/show/theindieauthorlife/id/36571925

Must-Have Elements in Every Nonfiction Book (Ep186) 05/08/2025

Ep185: Beyond the Hero’s Journey: Exploring the Hidden Arcs in Every Story 04/30/2025

Ep185: Beyond the Hero’s Journey: Exploring the Hidden Arcs in Every Story Main Topic: 3 arcs in every book (begins at 15:31) Up to 48% off your first subscription or 20% off one time purchases with code VALERIE20 at checkout You can claim it at: https://magicmind.com/VALERIE20 #magicmind #mentalwealth #mentalperformance PATREON: Thank you to our existing patrons for believing in our work offline and here in the podcast. Become a patron of the arts at for books, writing instruction, coaching, and planning. Go to for short stories in the paranormal mystery genre. Segment 1 (Announcements/Author Updates): (Valerie): writing How to Write a Novel (ask ChatGPT for new title), homework from the business coach, thinking about content creation and refining my book coaching offer; back pain (Erick): Trunk "shopping" for summer work = Witness accounts. Book a retreat for world-building. Preorder up for (cover from ) What are you reading? Valerie: (Olivia Hawker) (Not ready to give up on them, but struggling to finish them:) by Oliver Burkeman; (Alexandra Horowitz) ; Julie Leong Erick: (Stephen King), (gn) (Becky Cloonan) Segment 2 (Resources/Tips/Tidbits): Tidbit #1: • Tidbit #2: Segment 3 (Main Topic): (Bill Kenower) The Physical Arc (Story arc, plot, what happens in the book) Character/Emotional arc (how the character changes) Intentional Arc (Thematic arc) Narrative arc (how the story is told) If problems with character (flat, 2 dimensional, "Just didn't connect with them"): Add inner dialogue for tension and character motivation; Make sure your emotional arc is solid. (Character + Flaw + Death of Flaw at end = Character/Emotional Arc) And don't forget: Get 48% off the Magic Mind : and use Valerie20 at checkout. #magicmind #mentalwealth #mentalperformance Next episode: Find Us: Valerie's Linktree: (Find Passion Planner discount codes here.) Erick's Linktree link: /episode/index/show/theindieauthorlife/id/36376115

Ep184: The Confidence Paradox with guest Angus Nelson 04/24/2025

Ep184: The Confidence Paradox with guest Angus Nelson Main Topic: The Confidence Paradox with guest Angus Nelson Up to 48% off your first subscription or 20% off one time purchases with code VALERIE20 at checkout You can claim it at: https://magicmind.com/VALERIE20 #magicmind #mentalwealth #mentalperformance PATREON: Thank you to our existing patrons for believing in our work offline and here in the podcast. Become a patron of the arts at for books, writing instruction, coaching, and planning. Go to for short stories in the paranormal mystery genre. Segment 1 (Announcements/Author Updates): (Valerie): writing, gardening, homework from the business coach Angus: daughter just moved to Portugal a block away (Erick) Writing new novella. Great client meetings. Preorder up for (cover from ) What are you reading? Valerie: (Erick Mertz) (Olivia Hawker) (Not ready to give up on them, but struggling to finish them:) by Oliver Burkeman; (Alexandra Horowitz) ; Julie Leong Erick: (gn) (horror) (Agustina Bazterrica) (Angus:) (Rosemund Zander and Benjamin Zander) Segment 2 (Resources/Tips/Tidbits): Tidbit #1: automated email sequences Tidbit #2: Notes App (writing) Angus's tips: use AI to write; helped me see perspectives I couldn't see. Prompt it to be a bestselling NY Times editor. What would you say about this passage? ( was his book coach.) Segment 3 (Main Topic): Confidence Paradox Waiting for something. If I was only more ... confident. What if I just believe in myself? The book will write you. Rising to a different level. Let your power be seen. Stories we tell ourselves. 1. Inputs: What are you listening to? (News, sports, agitation, layoffs) We are in failure mode, scarcity mindset, all the time. Affects how I see myself. Living by default vs. intentionally decoupling self from negative stimuli. 2. Change the environment. Give yourself the permission to be the self I want to be. Letting go. What are you holding on to from the past? TODAY = The Only Day Actually Yours Go from limitation to possibility. We tell ourselves changing will take a long time and be really hard. But that's just a story. "It doesn't matter." What matters is I choose to be this. (Book rec by Dan Sullivan and Dr. Benjamin Hardy) Burnout based on story: not worthy, don't have what it takes. Need for external validation. Self love/ self grace (Reset days, cheat days, every phase of growth requires altering mindset) 5-8 weeks for transformations 3 month sprints alter the narrative, upgrade iOS in brain. Methodology: Experience the feeling you want to become. Powerful motherfucker. Culture of perpetual failure. Embodiment: Just Be Free. Let me do me. .com Free mini course: Message him the word "Activated" and he'll send it to you. And don't forget: Get 48% off the Magic Mind : and use Valerie20 at checkout. #magicmind #mentalwealth #mentalperformance Next episode: Find Us: Valerie's Linktree: (Find Passion Planner discount codes here.) Erick's Linktree link: Patreons: Tools: ProWriting Aid: (affiliate link) /episode/index/show/theindieauthorlife/id/36290585

Ep183: ChatGPT and Writing Exercises 04/17/2025

Ep182: How to Start a Ghostwriting Business 04/10/2025

Ep182: How to Start a Ghostwriting Business Main Topic: Starting a Ghostwriting Business Up to 48% off your first subscription or 20% off one time purchases with code VALERIE20 at checkout You can claim it at: https://magicmind.com/VALERIE20 #magicmind #mentalwealth #mentalperformance PATREON: Thank you to our existing patrons for believing in our work offline and here in the podcast. Become a patron of the arts at for books, writing instruction, coaching, and planning. Go to for short stories in the paranormal mystery genre. Segment 1 (Announcements/Author Updates): (Valerie) got my cover back!, started working with a business coach again, had a great time teaching at Wordcrafters in Eugene, client work (Erick) writing, client work, interviewing, What are you reading? Valerie: (Carmen Maria Machado) (Martha Gies) (Not ready to give up on them, but struggling to finish them:) by Oliver Burkeman; (Alexandra Horowitz) ; Julie Leong Erick: (Kobo Abe) (anime horror) Segment 2 (Resources/Tips/Tidbits): Tidbit #1: Tidbit #2: Segment 3 (Mindset-Craft-Biz Check): Segment 4 (Main Topic): Process as client vs starting own business Finished manuscript according to client requirements with no credit. Beginning is client approaches you, defines the project, educate client about your service, get the vibe from first contact/discovery call, talk money early on, decide on price, sign contract, pay on benchmarks: signed contract, outline, completed project. "Do you feel like you could talk to me about ...?" Provide referrals from other clients instead of work samples. Roughly $1/word. Where does my own writing fit into this? (First question to ask self if considering starting a ghost writing biz.) Have to say yes early on to establish yourself. Even jobs you don't want to do. Mindset: How do you write something that you don't want to write? State your boundaries early on. Voice: recorded conversations helps with knowing how to write. Listen to the person talk. Explain there is going to be a translation. Does it feel like you when you read it? Might not be your exact words. Manuscript based on agreed upon outline, but you'll find 25% that you'll want to change. Network, mentor, website, sub-contracting is a great way to start. Figure out what your ghost genre is. Probably not yours. Harder to treat as a product, because you HAVE to be efficient. Learning the business as you go and juggle process. Find resources/communities, join them with skepticism. A lot of people on forums bring a bunch of b.s. Learn to read between the lines. Skills: flexible and confident (more of self than of writing) And don't forget: Get 48% off the Magic Mind : and use Valerie20 at checkout. #magicmind #mentalwealth #mentalperformance Next episode: Find Us: Valerie's Linktree: (Find Passion Planner discount codes here.) Erick's Linktree link: Patreons: Tools: ProWriting Aid: (affiliate link) /episode/index/show/theindieauthorlife/id/36078180

Ep181: Autofiction: Letting Go at Launch Time with guest H.H. Rune 04/02/2025

Ep181: Autofiction: Letting Go at Launch Time with guest H.H. Rune Main Topic: Autoficiton: Letting Go at Launch Time with guest H.H. Rune (main topic starts at 16:06) Up to 48% off your first subscription or 20% off one time purchases with code VALERIE20 at checkout You can claim it at: https://magicmind.com/VALERIE20 #magicmind #mentalwealth #mentalperformance PATREON: Thank you to our existing patrons for believing in our work offline and here in the podcast. Become a patron of the arts at for books, writing instruction, coaching, and planning. Go to for short stories in the paranormal mystery genre. Segment 1 (Announcements/Author Updates): (Valerie) (Wordcrafters) (Erick) What are you reading? Valerie: (Carmen Maria Machado) (Camille Aubray) (Not ready to give up on them, but struggling to finish them:) by Oliver Burkeman; (Alexandra Horowitz) ; Julie Leong (Don Miguel Ruiz), (Sanaya Roman); (Mat Auryn) Erick: Segment 2 (Resources/Tips/Tidbits): Tidbit #1: Tidbit #2: Segment 3 (Mindset-Craft-Biz Check): Segment 4 (Main Topic): (starts at 16:06) ’s series blends fiction along with parts of her own life into a literary social experiment of a set of traveling books that are sent out to strangers with a mission of finding their way back to her. Her first two books in the Extraordinary Life Seeker series- and - are available now. To further accentuate her request that her readers pass along the books as part of the story, her Limited Edition-Trackable versions have been spotted all over the U.S. as well as Canada, England, Ireland and Iceland. Find Me, Book Three will be out early 2025. Notes from my conversation with H: No names in book (use Mr. Fun). Not a character assassination. Instead, my responses to lessons learned from my experiences. 20 limited editions of each novel. Send to friends and they dispersed them. Sent also to Booktalkers and did a Goodreads giveaway. QR code in front of book sends them to fill out google form, "tracking" the book's location in the world, and--ideally--getting them to post a picture. Software mapped out the Google form responses. Considers her work Autofiction. Upcoming events for H: May: Reading at s in Vancouver, WA. July: Signing at (19 Officer's Row Vancouver WA) Just started using Skylight Social with handle: @hhrune.bsky.social Website: And don't forget: Get 48% off the Magic Mind : and use Valerie20 at checkout. #magicmind #mentalwealth #mentalperformance Next episode: Find Us: Valerie's Linktree: (Find Passion Planner discount codes here.) Erick's Linktree link: Patreons: Tools: ProWriting Aid: (affiliate link) /episode/index/show/theindieauthorlife/id/35982345

Ep180: (B)Romance: How Dumb & Dumber and When Harry Met Sally are the Same Screenplay 04/01/2025

Ep180: (B)Romance: How Dumb & Dumber and When Harry Met Sally are the Same Screenplay Bromance: How Dumb & Dumber and When Harry Met Sally are the Same Screenplay (21:42) Up to 48% off your first subscription or 20% off one time purchases with code VALERIE20 at checkout You can claim it at: https://magicmind.com/VALERIE20 #magicmind #mentalwealth #mentalperformance PATREON: Thank you to our existing patrons for believing in our work offline and here in the podcast. Become a patron of the arts at for books, writing instruction, coaching, and planning. Go to for short stories in the paranormal mystery genre. Segment 1 (Announcements/Author Updates): Unlocking the Hearth of Your Memoir (Wordcrafters) Aligned Author: A Workshop in Intuitive Planning and Strategy (last weekend on Anderson Island) (Erick) Spring Break, busy, marketing, When can I slot in phone calls?, less writing What are you reading? Valerie: (Carmen Maria Machado) (Camille Aubray) (Not ready to give up on them, but struggling to finish them:) by Oliver Burkeman; (Alexandra Horowitz) ; Julie Leong Erick: Stephen Brust's (Vlad Taltos) Segment 2 (Resources/Tips/Tidbits): Tidbit #1: to read screenplays (not the bound screenplays in bookstores); ; ' Go Into the Story (Read scripts you've watched before and ones you haven't.) Tidbit #2: Segment 3 (Mindset-Craft-Biz Check): Segment 4 (Main Topic): Romcom 90-100 pages Same beats in every story (might take longer to reach the beat.) Buddy comedies and romantic comedies reach beats at the same time. 1) Characters always odd couple. (Internal push/pull.) Emotional bonding early on. D&Dumber (Harry and Lloyd) WHMS (Harry and Sally) 2) Meet Cute (sparks the long term relationship/Will they survive as friends? Will they/Won't they tension at beginning of the movie--by page 5 (within 5-8 minutes) when the theme of the story is stated. 3) Page 12 is where story diverges and real problem starts. 12-25 emotional bonding is depicted. Quirky side characters introduced (opposite of main characters). 4) Page 25 is start of Act II. (25-30 central theme is tested. Page 30-55 Fun and Games, tested in fun ways (with minimal risk) 5) Midpoint (something happens and fun and games has more risk, stakes are different). Now antics are pointed towards each other. (Pages 55-70) 6) Page 75 (the dark night of the soul sequence starts here) characters hit rock bottom, how do the characters deal with it. 7) Ending (emotional payoff and repair what's broken). And don't forget: Get 48% off the Magic Mind : and use Valerie20 at checkout. #magicmind #mentalwealth #mentalperformance Next episode: Guest H.H. Rune on Letting Your Story Go Out into the World. /episode/index/show/theindieauthorlife/id/35954690

Ep179: The 3 Types and 5 Rules of Screenwriting 03/05/2025

Ep179: The 3 Types and 5 Rules of Screenwriting Main Topic: 5 Rules of Screen-Writing (starts at 18:23) Up to 48% off your first subscription or 20% off one time purchases with code VALERIE20 at checkout You can claim it at: https://magicmind.com/VALERIE20 #magicmind #mentalwealth #mentalperformance PATREON: Thank you to our existing patrons for believing in our work offline and here in the podcast. Become a patron of the arts at for books, writing instruction, coaching, and planning. Go to for short stories in the paranormal mystery genre. Segment 1 (Announcements/Author Updates): (Valerie) movement (getting back into it); client work; work/life balance nonexistent (talked with Ali) Aligned Author: A Workshop in Intuitive Planning and Strategy "Using strategic principles, core values, and your desired feelings as a guide, you can create goals that feel good to pursue. Aligned Embodied Action is an intuitive and authentic way to approach goal-setting and strategic planning. Join life coach and author Valerie Ihsan for this experiential, full-day workshop packed with hands-on exercises, practical tips, valuable resources, and live coaching opportunities. By the end of the day, you’ll walk away with a personalized action plan—clear, aligned, and ready to implement—so you can take your next steps with confidence." Use this link to register for the workshop: (Erick) finishing client work, tabled own work for the moment, revamped Patreon (join Erick's mailing list to vote on the new series name) What are you reading? Valerie: (Carmen Maria Machado) : How to Make Meaningful Friendships as an Adult (Lane Moore) • (Not ready to give up on them, but struggling to finish them:) by Oliver Burkeman; (Alexandra Horowitz) ; Julie Leong Erick: Terry Pratchett; Tsuge graphic novel (The Man Without Talent; ... Flowers) Segment 2 (Resources/Tips/Tidbits): Tidbit #1: Graphite pencil (type of mechanical pencil) Tidbit #2: Segment 3 (Mindset-Craft-Biz Check): Segment 4 (Main Topic): Simple medium portraying sound and describing action. Slug line (interior, office, morning) Action (Erick sits at his computer, talking into a microphone, recording a podcast.) Character (ERICK: dialogue) Action (Erick removes his earbuds, the meeting ends) ** 3 kinds of screenplays On Spec: rough draft/outline Producer changes it to Shooting screenplay (adds relevance and his "stamp" on it, adds over-shoulder camera angle, etc) Production draft (cuts, fades) ** 1- only write what you can see or is relevant to action. (No thoughts.) 2 - never direct on the page of a spec script. (The art is to plant the seed of what you want.) 3 - one page = one minute of screen time (approximate); no action or dialogue no longer than 3 lines 4 - arrive late and leave early; start a beat before the action and end on motion 5 - All rules can be broken. (Big sin directing on the the page.) And don't forget: Get 48% off the Magic Mind : and use Valerie20 at checkout. #magicmind #mentalwealth #mentalperformance Next episode: Marco Gamboa "Using Stories Find Us: Valerie's Linktree: Erick's Linktree link: Patreons: Tools: Passion Planner: (affiliate link) Discount Code: VALERIE184 ProWriting Aid: (affiliate link) /episode/index/show/theindieauthorlife/id/35546470

Ep178: How to Find Writing Community 02/26/2025

Ep178: How to Find Writing Community Segment 1 (Announcements/Author Updates): (Valerie) decluttering, pitching conferences, starting new projects Aligned Author: A Workshop in Intuitive Planning and Strategy "Using strategic principles, core values, and your desired feelings as a guide, you can create goals that feel good to pursue. Aligned Embodied Action is an intuitive and authentic way to approach goal-setting and strategic planning. Join life coach and author Valerie Ihsan for this experiential, full-day workshop packed with hands-on exercises, practical tips, valuable resources, and live coaching opportunities. By the end of the day, you’ll walk away with a personalized action plan—clear, aligned, and ready to implement—so you can take your next steps with confidence." Use this link to register for the workshop: (Erick) client work, reorganizing my life around ghost-writing, new clients and project management coming up, process re-structuring. What are you reading? Valerie: (Carmen Maria Machado) : How to Make Meaningful Friendships as an Adult (Lane Moore) • (Not ready to give up on them, but struggling to finish them:) by Oliver Burkeman; (Alexandra Horowitz) ; Julie Leong Erick: Terry Pratchett Segment 2 (Resources/Tips/Tidbits): Tidbit #1: comfortable chair for your office Tidbit #2: Human Design chart; It'll validate so much about yourself! Segment 3 (Mindset-Craft-Biz Check): Segment 4 (Main Topic): Writing communities look different from one to another. There's: Writing friends, Critique group, Service Trade Friends, Organizations, Conferences, Writing groups, Colleagues you can chat with at meetings that understand the writing life (don't discount this!). I'm a writer. We all have something in common. Stay in contact Do I want to make this MY community? Like-mindedness. Compatibility, flexibility, fits my value system. And don't forget: Get 48% off the Magic Mind : and use Valerie20 at checkout. #magicmind #mentalwealth #mentalperformance Next episode: Find Us: Valerie's Linktree: Erick's Linktree link: Patreons: Tools: Passion Planner: (affiliate link) Discount Code: VALERIE184 ProWriting Aid: (affiliate link) Resources: on Erick's blog (Jennie Komp's group) 3 Bird View FB page (Jennie Komp's business page) Author XP (marketing for authors) (bi-monthly promotions) Raven Publicity (publicity for authors) The Shades of Orange (Rachel, Book Blogger on YouTube) for book recommendations SF/Fantasy/Horror Contact for business-starting advice or building a website. Contact for author coaching. Thomas Umstattd Jr, at Novel Marketing Podcast. Russell P. Nohelty and Monica Leonelle's book, meditation app. Book Recs for writing/creativity/business: (Rachael Herron) (John Sayles) (Susan Goldsmith Wooldridge) (Lajos Egri) (Blake Snyder) (David Mamet) Notable Mention: (Larry Brooks), (Tim Grahl); (J.P. Rindfleisch IX); (J.Thorn and Zach Bohannon); (Sacha Black) /episode/index/show/theindieauthorlife/id/35441310

Ep177: Favorite Writing Craft Books 02/12/2025

Ep176: How to Resuscitate a Trunk Novel 02/08/2025

Ep175: Problem Solving Your Novel 01/08/2025

Ep175: Problem Solving Your Novel Main Topic: Problem Solving in Your Novel (and your life!) Get 45% off the Magic Mind bundle with with my link: https://magicmind.com/VALERIEJAN #magicmind #mentalwealth #mentalperformance PATREON: Thank you to our existing patrons for believing in our work offline and here in the podcast. Become a patron of the arts at for books, writing instruction, coaching, and planning. Go to for short stories in the paranormal mystery genre. Segment 1 (Announcements/Author Updates): started thinking about decluttering on a serious level - starting with my office (Valerie) writing, finishing things (multiple manuscripts), balancing work and work. ;-) (Erick) What are you reading? Valerie: by Oliver Burkeman; (Alexandra Horowitz) ; Charlotte McConaghy; Julie Leong (Danielle LaPorte) by Brad Klontz and Adrian Brambila Erick: by Dan Kois; Jasper Fforde; Harlan Coben Segment 2 (Resources/Tips/Tidbits): Tidbit #1: FABULOUS. Transcription software. $60/year. Tidbit #2: Wheel of Life. Rank your categories. Friends and Family, Significant Other, Personal Growth, Fun and Leisure, Home Environment, Career, Money, Health. Understand what areas need improvement, what areas are being neglected, and start to create balance. What can be worked on next? What needs to happen for the number to increase? Tidbit #3: Mental Wealth vs Mental Health. (SAD, anxiety, etc) Almost every book I read now talks about sleep as being the #1 thing for overall health. Wake up every day at same time. (Josh's ADHD/insomnia story). I'm trying it. But changing my time to later. You know I've been taking that Magic Mind performance shot (still am). I was reading a little bit more about their company--they ship internationally so I'll be able to get it in CR.--and they've got these pillars of mental wealth: Sleep. Diet. Exercise. Stress Management. Exogenous Compounds (something created outside of the body): antibiotics, herbal supplements, cigarette smoke, diet, wildfire smoke, etc.I'm doing a lot of work already in most of the pillars .... But sleep. The last thing I work on is listed first. Magic Mind has a new mental wealth challenge going on their website, and they've packaged up their mental performance shots (which I'm still drinking in the morning with my coffee and happy lite), along with (for the first time) Sleep Shots. And I've got a link for 45% off in the show notes, of course. So yeah. Sleep. That's one of my 2025 resolutions. And my tidbit. Also, I may be weird, but I don't like naps. So I've really got to get my sleep in order. Segment 3 (Mindset-Craft-Biz Check): Segment 4 (Main Topic): Problem Solving in Your Novel (and your life!) GROW: Goals, Resources, Obstacles, Way Forward (Use Tarot for this too!) (author and for character) 1. Something is not right here. Skill to develop. "In service of the story." 2. GROW method. 3. Take the character out of the problem spots in the novel. It's me (the author). "Why are we here? Why did I bring us to this scene?" Transitions and staging. (What is happening between the scenes that I want the reader to know that I'm not writing?) 4. Character Motivation. Mini motivations in service to the bigger motivation. 5. Master class in long term story: Breaking Bad. And don't forget: Get 45% off the Magic Mind bundle with with my link: https://magicmind.com/VALERIEJAN #magicmind #mentalwealth #mentalperformance Find Us: Valerie's Linktree: Erick's Linktree link: ProWriting Aid: (affiliate link) /episode/index/show/theindieauthorlife/id/34777970

Ep174: What Are You Bringing to 2025? 12/25/2024

Ep173: Battling Self-Doubt 12/20/2024

Ep172: Pricing Author Services 12/05/2024

Ep172: Pricing Author Services Main Topic: Pricing for Author Services (starts at 16:33) PATREON: Thank you to our existing patrons for believing in our work offline and here in the podcast. Become a patron of the arts at for books, writing instruction, coaching, and planning. Go to for short stories in the paranormal mystery genre. Segment 1 (Announcements/Author Updates): EMBODY (fit and intuitive) on Patreon. (Valerie) writing new short stories from Ghost Story Weekend inspiration (Erick) (got feedback from the participants; all loved it.) tying up loose endings (finishing energy at the end of the year); clean slate for my birthday. (Erick) Jan 23rd re-thinking Patreon (Erick) What are you reading? Valerie: by Oliver Burkeman; (Alexandra Horowitz); (David Cameron Gikandi) by Kaliane Bradley; Be Ready When Luck Happens Ina Garten Erick: (Ray Bradbury)(Shout out to local bookstore: ; (Stranger Things prequel book)(Caitlin Schneiderhan) Tom Clancy: Shadow State Segment 2 (Resources/Tips/Tidbits): Tidbit #1: (craft of writing and story) Tidbit #2: talking with a friend Segment 3 (Mindset-Craft-Biz Check): Segment 4 (Main Topic): Pricing Epiphany on pricing (E) What we charge for service. Gig pricing. Are you a fit? What's the work going to be? What charge for project? How much am I (cost) to pay for this? "What is your budget for this?" The Dance: Components of pricing: Standard pricing: "Dynamic" pricing (sliding scale in head): Base line $1/word $7.50/pg. Standard jobs don't exist. Editorial rates linked out. Write in contact: opt-out cause, renegotiate prices. Rapport, base line (and how much flex on it), build in protection to self. AI clause in contract? The scope of work is this:..... If the scope changes during the course of project, we shall renegotiate the contract (including pricing). Learn how to talk about money and value yourself. Review each project. Ideal? What went wrong? Did more work than I got paid for? Interview client when done for testimonials (social proof is enormous). Next episode: Find Us: Valerie's Linktree: Erick's Linktree link: Patreons: Tools: Passion Planner: (affiliate link) Discount Code: VALERIE184 ProWriting Aid: (affiliate link) /episode/index/show/theindieauthorlife/id/34296460

Ep171: The Process of Planning Your Book Without Getting Bored 11/20/2024

Ep171: The Process of Planning Your Book Without Getting Bored Hello Writers and Crafters! I'm Valerie Ihsan, And I'm Erick Mertz, and this is Episode 171 of the podcast and it's November 20, 2024 as we record this. Main Topic: PATREON: Thank you to new patron Elizabeth Amber from Anchorage, Alaska. THANKS! I appreciate you. Thank you to our existing patrons for believing in our work offline and here in the podcast. Become a patron of the arts at for books, writing instruction, coaching, and planning. Go to for short stories in the paranormal mystery genre. Segment 1 (Announcements/Author Updates): ( Book 2 out) Print out NOW! On Amazon. (Valerie's teaching a class in Eugene, Oregon on Saturday, December 7, 2024; 10am-5pm.) EMBODY (fit and intuitive) on Patreon. (Valerie) writing new short stories from Ghost Story Weekend inspiration (Erick) (got feedback from the participants; all loved it.) tying up loose endings (finishing energy at the end of the year); clean slate for my birthday. (Erick) re-thinking Patreon (Erick) What are you reading? Valerie: by Oliver Burkeman; (Alexandra Horowitz); (David Cameron Gikandi) Erick: (Ray Bradbury)(Shout out to local bookstore: ; (Stranger Things prequel book)(Caitlin Schneiderhan) Segment 2 (Resources/Tips/Tidbits): Tidbit #1: Jane Friedman's newsletter , amazing information (fundamental) Tidbit #2: Segment 3 (Mindset-Craft-Biz Check): Segment 4 (Main Topic): Start with a character, What's your story? (Valerie) archetypes intrigue/attrack me and do something different than before. (Erick) theme early on (V); why this character, why now (E); element of surprise makes it interesting (E); be open to surprise; fully plot out after the brainstorming. Create a structure and continue to pants through it. Invent a thing on the way to something else. Plotting isn't boring. Defy the plot points. If char reacts to a stale moments, it's because you are stale and bored. When stuck (process changes), a day-to-day thing: toss it out if you are rewriting it too much. What are the necessary elements? Straight-forward way. "The scene actually begins here." If it's content and not story, it has to go. Keep changing the container as you right. Know the beats before you sit down. (Erick) Next episode: Find Us: Valerie's Linktree: Erick's Linktree link: Patreons: Tools: Passion Planner: (affiliate link) Discount Code: VALERIE184 ProWriting Aid: (affiliate link) /episode/index/show/theindieauthorlife/id/34043201

Ep170: Courage in Story Telling with guest Anne Abel 11/06/2024

Ep170: Courage in Story Telling with guest Anne Abel Thank you to our existing patrons for believing in our work offline and here in the podcast. Become a patron of the arts at for books, writing instruction, coaching, and planning. Go to for short stories in the paranormal mystery genre. Segment 1 (Announcements/Author Updates): ( Book 2 out) Print out NOW! On Amazon. (Erick teaching.) (Valerie will be at in Gig Harbor, WA this year, too! back from Ghost Story Weekend in Rainbow, OR. (Erick) (Valerie's teaching a class in Eugene, Oregon on Saturday, December 7, 2024; 10am-5pm.) EMBODY (fit and intuitive) on Patreon. writing new short stories from Ghost Story Weekend inspiration (Erick) re-thinking Patreon (Erick) (Anne) first book published in April (She Writes Press); next book on September 2025; writing third book; social media IG went viral just from showing off apartment. Tip: do videos/reels. What are you reading? Valerie: by Oliver Burkeman; (Alexandra Horowitz) (Samantha Allen); (David Cameron Gikandi) Erick: (Ray Bradbury) (Alan Moore) (Shout out to local bookstore: ; (Lee Child) Anne: (Alison Espach); Segment 2 (Resources/Tips/Tidbits): Tidbit #1: Tidbit #2: Segment 3 (Mindset-Craft-Biz Check): Segment 4 (Main Topic): Anne Abel Anne Abel’s story about unwittingly rescuing an aggressive dog, Milo, won a Moth StorySLAM in New York City. She has won two additional Moth StorySLAMs in Chicago. Her credentials include an MFA from The New School for Social Research, an MBA from the University of Chicago, and a BS in chemical engineering from Tufts University. She has freelanced for Lilith; Philadelphia Daily News; The Jewish Exponent; Philadelphia Weekly, Main Line Life and Main Line Today, and formerly wrote a weekly column, “The Homefront,” for Main Line Welcomat. She also taught English and creative writing at the Community College of Philadelphia. Anne lives in New York City with her husband, Andy, and their three rescue dogs, Ryan, Megan, and Chase. She grew up outside Boston, MA. Suffered from depression and writers block, and start telling stories is what saved her. Following Bruce Springsteen's tour for the structure. Started writing stories through emails for hours a day. Storytelling open mic. Worked on seven minute story. 7 minute story framework. MOTH is 5 minutes. Don't question what comes out. Positive immediate feedback. Use story beats. Outline. Tell myself the story over and over. (Absolute key points.) (Tell them what they don't expect.) Everyone sees art in a different way. If Bruce Springsteen was saying, "How do we get through the day?" maybe I can do this. Australia changed the trajectory of my life. (Movie about a British-Pakastani teen who discovers Bruce Springsteen's music.) A lot of courage and connection. The courage led to the connectivity. "I live outside my comfort zone." She tried and she tried and she tried. (For my tombstone.) "I don't let fear stop me." "What's the worst? Just do it." (Listen to a couple of Anne's stories from the MOTHSlam.) Next episode: Find Us: Valerie's Linktree: Erick's Linktree link: Patreons: Tools: Passion Planner: (affiliate link) Discount Code: VALERIE184 ProWriting Aid: (affiliate link) /episode/index/show/theindieauthorlife/id/33822182

Ep169: Writing as a Black Woman in the Speculative Fiction Genre, with guest Dr. Michele Tracy Berger 10/30/2024

Ep169: Writing as a Black Woman in the Speculative Fiction Genre, with guest Dr. Michele Tracy Berger Main Topic: Writing as a Black Woman in the Speculative Fiction World (Main Topic starts at 28:00.) PATREON: Thank you to our existing patrons for believing in our work offline and here in the podcast. Become a patron of the arts at for books, writing instruction, coaching, and planning. Go to for short stories in the paranormal mystery genre. Segment 1 (Announcements/Author Updates): ( Book 2 out) Print out NOW! On Amazon. (Erick teaching.) (Valerie will be at in Gig Harbor, WA this year, too! back from Ghost Story Weekend in Rainbow, OR. (Erick) (Valerie's teaching a class in Eugene, Oregon on Saturday, December 7, 2024; 10am-5pm.) EMBODY (fit and intuitive) on Patreon. Michele: teaching at NC Writers Network Conference "Bending Reality" (Keynotes: art and creativity unifies and grounds us; What is your Zone of Genius? Create a keynote talk from there.) Book rec: The Big Leap (Hendricks); teaching "Afro-Futurism and the Black Imaginary" class What are you reading? Valerie: by Oliver Burkeman; (Alexandra Horowitz) (Samantha Allen); (David Cameron Gikandi) Erick: (Ray Bradbury) (Alan Moore) (Shout out to local bookstore: Parallel Worlds; NE Portland, OR) Michele: Nalo Hopkinson (); (Lyn Slater) Segment 2 (Resources/Tips/Tidbits): Tidbit #1: Invite the Random into your Storytelling. (Roll the dice.) Tidbit #2: Eat fries before dinner. Segment 3 (Mindset-Craft-Biz Check): Segment 4 (Main Topic): Dr. Michele Tracy Berger is a professor, an award-winning writer, a creativity coach and a pug-lover. Her main love is writing speculative fiction, though she also is known to write poetry and creative nonfiction, too. 1. Spec fiction definition: ideas that are outside the regular laws of the universe; Margaret Atwood (feminist author used ); sci fi, fantasy, paranormal, horror. Toni Morrison's Beloved is a ghost story (literary). Horror is a feeling (also a genre) (elevated horror, social horror). In social horror, Creatives of Color now write systems of power as the monster in the basement. 2. What challenges do you face? Meet reader's expectations; gatekeepers have changed; a decade of rejections for Doll Seed story; understanding African American literary history (more space now, public ready now for more interesting characters); black women were absent or monstrous in horror media from the 70s and 80s, now there's interest in a rebalance, and an appetite for complex characters, indie pubbing lead the way for this. Trad pub catching up. (horror podcast) 3. Marketing through this lens: finding a press that resonates with you, being authentic and consistent, IG Live, learning as you go, embrace the work of marketer, watch documentary of Jackie Collins () and Harlan Ellison (), writers have always had to think about how people find them. : mood board with intersection of empowered female characters, black readers of spec fiction, how to think about ideal reader ("If you like Octavia Butler, Kelly Link, AND Dean Koontz, you'll love Michele Tracy Berger"). Start with a character, then construct the story and follow the character through. Think about audience in the submission process. 4. Author services: Write affirmations. Neutral to positive self-talk for writers as a pattern interruptor. Coaching creatives for 15 years. . "Tickle your genius awake." Specialize in writers interested in mindset work. Online classes. Group coaching. "More Joy on the Path." "See the joy in the process." Next episode: Find Us: Valerie's Linktree: Erick's Linktree link: Patreons: Tools: Passion Planner: (affiliate link) Discount Code: VALERIE184 ProWriting Aid: (affiliate link) Resources: on Erick's blog (Jennie Komp's group) 3 Bird View FB page (Jennie Komp's business page) Author XP (marketing for authors) (bi-monthly promotions) Raven Publicity (publicity for authors) The Shades of Orange (Rachel, Book Blogger on YouTube) for book recommendations SF/Fantasy/Horror Contact for business-starting advice or building a website. Contact for author coaching. Thomas Umstattd Jr, at Novel Marketing Podcast. Russell P. Nohelty and Monica Leonelle's book, meditation app. Book Recs for writing/creativity/business: : Outline Your Books for Faster, Better Writing by Libbie Hawker : A Writer's Guide to Crafting Resonating Stories by JP Rindfleisch IX : Write Your Life Story in 45 Hours by Rachael Herron : Foundations in Fiction by J.Thorn and Zach Bohannon by Sacha Black by Cal Newport /episode/index/show/theindieauthorlife/id/33695142

Ep168: Fostering Creativity 10/23/2024

Ep167: Hiring an Editor: What My Book Should Look Like 10/16/2024

Ep166: Conference Expecatations 10/09/2024

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