The Writing Coach
Welcome to The Writing Coach. On this podcast, author Kevin T. Johns speaks with the instructors, editors, coaches, and mentors that help writers and authors create their art, build their audience, and sell their work.
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Where the Night Winds Wail: Sandy Day on Obsession, Grief, and Indie Authorship
05/15/2026
Where the Night Winds Wail: Sandy Day on Obsession, Grief, and Indie Authorship
On today’s episode of the podcast, I’m thrilled to welcome back one of my favorite returning guests, author Sandy Day. The last time Sandy was on the show, we talked about her novel and the re‑release of . This time, she’s here to dive deep into her brand‑new book, —a haunting Ontario noir inspired by the classic song “.” In our conversation, Sandy pulls back the curtain on the long and winding road this novel took to completion: from an early 30,000‑word NaNoWriMo draft to a fully realized 93,000‑word book rich with interiority, atmosphere, and character development. We talk about the dangers of writing a book in endless layers over many years, the painful process of killing your darlings, and how adding a single major character reshaped the entire story. We also explore how music, obsession, and old wounds fuel Sandy’s fiction. Sandy shares how the moody storytelling of “The Long Black Veil,” her lifelong love of The Band, and films like influence her approach to love stories that are anything but neat “happily ever afters.” From Jake, her musician protagonist struggling with buried talent and unresolved grief, to the storm at the heart of the book’s setting, this is a conversation about art, pain, and learning how to live with the things that never fully heal. Finally, Sandy and I dig into the business side of being an indie literary author—branding, cover design, Amazon categories, and the power of consistent, heartfelt communication through her weekly Substack newsletter. If you care about writing emotionally honest fiction, building a sustainable indie career, or simply love hearing a thoughtful author talk about her craft, you’re going to get a lot out of this episode. Check it out now:
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How Linda Garnett Turned Her Debut Gothic Vampire Novel into an Amazon Bestseller
05/08/2026
How Linda Garnett Turned Her Debut Gothic Vampire Novel into an Amazon Bestseller
In this episode of The Writing Coach Podcast, I sit down with my client, author Linda Garnett to celebrate the release of her debut Gothic vampire novel, Red Falls. Linda’s journey is a fantastic reminder that writing a book is rarely a straight line from “idea” to “finished manuscript.” Her novel evolved through outlining, drafting, revising, group feedback, one-on-one coaching, and a whole lot of faith in the process. We talk about what it feels like to finally publish a book, the emotional roller coaster of launch week, the power of writing community, and how Linda went from wanting to simply prove she could finish a novel to seeing her debut climb the Amazon bestseller charts. We also dig into the deliciously dark stuff: Gothic towns, dangerous vampires, found family, action scenes, messy first drafts, and why sometimes the best way into a story isn’t through plot or character, but through atmosphere. If you love vampires, Gothic fiction, indie author success stories, or practical craft talk with a bit of gothic charm this conversation is for you.
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Using Story Intelligence to Stay Authentic in the Age of AI with Gabrielle Dolan – The Writing Coach Ep. 224
04/27/2026
Using Story Intelligence to Stay Authentic in the Age of AI with Gabrielle Dolan – The Writing Coach Ep. 224
In this episode of The Writing Coach podcast, I’m joined by Gabrielle Dolan, a leadership communication expert, keynote speaker, and the author of eight books on storytelling, including her latest, . Gabrielle shares how nearly two decades in senior leadership and change management at one of Australia’s largest banks led her to a powerful realization: stories communicate strategy, change, and ideas far better than data and slide decks alone. That insight inspired her to leave corporate life and teach storytelling as a core leadership and communication skill. Together, explore: Why logic alone doesn’t persuade and how emotion really drives decisions The four key types of stories you can use—parables, public, professional, and personal Why personal stories are the most underused yet most powerful in building trust and credibility How specificity (like “red back spider” and “Copperhead snake”) makes stories more vivid and memorable The biggest communication failures in large organizations and how story can fix them What Gabrielle means by “story intelligence” and why authenticity is at its core How to use AI as a creative partner to find and refine your stories—without losing your voice The growing distrust of AI-polished content and how writers can stay credible in a skeptical world If you’re a writer, coach, or leader wondering how to stand out in an AI-driven, trust-poor environment, this conversation will help you communicate with more clarity, impact, and authenticity—on the page and in person Check out the episode now!
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Patty McGee on How to Teach Writing Without Crushing Confidence – The Writing Coach Ep. 223
04/20/2026
Patty McGee on How to Teach Writing Without Crushing Confidence – The Writing Coach Ep. 223
In this episode of The Writing Coach Podcast, I’m joined by Patty McGee, a nationally recognized literacy consultant, speaker, and educator who is passionate about transforming classrooms into spaces where language and learning come alive. With decades of experience as a teacher, coach, and advocate for joyful, practical literacy instruction, Patty has worked alongside educators across the country to help unlock the potential of their students. She is also the author of three books, including her newest release, Not Your Granny’s Grammar. In our conversation, Patty and I explore what it really means to help writers grow. We talk about the kind of feedback that builds confidence instead of crushing it, the connection between grammar and voice, the importance of revision, and why so many writers carry lasting scars from being corrected rather than truly taught. We also dig into the challenge of teaching writing in online spaces, the role of play and inquiry in learning grammar, and how writers can protect their authentic voice in the age of AI. Whether you’re a teacher, a writing coach, a parent, or a writer trying to strengthen your craft without losing your humanity on the page, this episode is packed with insight, encouragement, and practical wisdom. In this conversation, we cover: how to give feedback that helps writers improve without discouraging them why revision is essential to strong writing the relationship between grammar, voice, and artistic choice what teachers and coaches can learn from effective classroom practice how to make online writing instruction more engaging and human why a playful, inquiry-based approach to grammar can be so powerful how to think about AI without surrendering your voice as a writer Check out the episode now!
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From Journals to Memoir: How Margot Stornelli Wrote The Big Red Suitcase — The Writing Coach Ep. 222
03/11/2026
From Journals to Memoir: How Margot Stornelli Wrote The Big Red Suitcase — The Writing Coach Ep. 222
Every writer has a moment when a story that was meant to stay private begins to ask for a wider audience. Sometimes it starts with a notebook. Sometimes it starts with a question from your children. And sometimes it begins with a simple realization: If I don’t write this down, these stories might disappear. In this episode of The Writing Coach Podcast, I sit down with my client Margot Stornelli, a retired librarian who turned a personal journaling project into a full memoir. What began as a way to record her life for her children eventually grew into The Big Red Suitcase, a travel memoir filled with memories, reflections, and stories gathered over decades of living and exploring the world. Margot’s path to authorship is both inspiring and reassuring for writers at any stage. She didn’t start with a grand publishing plan. She started with curiosity, a lifetime of experiences, and a desire to leave something meaningful for the next generation. In our conversation, we talk about the surprising way her memoir began, how she slowly transformed scattered diary entries into a cohesive book, and what it’s like to move from being a lifelong reader and librarian to becoming an author herself. If you’ve ever wondered whether your own life stories might be worth writing down, this conversation will give you a powerful reason to start. Check out the episode now!
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Writing, Burnout, and the Long Game: Kevin Tumlinson on Building a Sustainable Author Life with VAs — The Writing Coach Ep. 221
02/05/2026
Writing, Burnout, and the Long Game: Kevin Tumlinson on Building a Sustainable Author Life with VAs — The Writing Coach Ep. 221
Most writers don’t burn out because they hate writing. They burn out because writing quietly becomes everything else. Marketing. Tech. Algorithms. Platforms. Tools that promise leverage but demand constant attention. Somewhere along the way, the actual work—the slow, human, soul-driven act of storytelling—gets crowded out. In this episode of The Writing Coach Podcast, I’m joined by author and industry veteran Kevin Tumlinson for a wide-ranging, honest conversation about what it really means to build a sustainable writing life in 2026 and beyond. We talk about creative burnout, the myth of “doing it all yourself,” and why AI isn’t the monster it’s often made out to be—unless you let it replace the very thing that makes writing matter. Kevin shares how slowing down, writing by hand, and embracing what he calls an “analog rebellion” helped him reconnect with the work after years of rapid release, daily livestreams, and nonstop output. We also dig into something many writers are curious about—but hesitant to admit: getting help. Not automation. Not shortcuts. Real human assistance. We explore virtual assistants, delegation, leadership, and why letting go of the right tasks can actually give you more control over your author business—not less. If you’ve ever thought, I just want to write… but I also want this to work, this conversation is for you. Check out the episode now!
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Book Brush for Authors with Kathleen Sweeney
01/22/2026
Book Brush for Authors with Kathleen Sweeney
If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by the visual side of book marketing—cover mockups, social media graphics, reels, and everything in between—this episode will feel like a breath of fresh air. In this conversation, I’m joined by Kathleen Sweeney, co-founder of Book Brush, a visual marketing platform built specifically for authors. We talk about how Book Brush evolved by listening to writers, why so many authors struggle with consistency and branding, and how to think about marketing before your book launches—not after. We also dig into the difference between DIY marketing and done-for-you support, when it makes sense to outsource, and how authors can stop trying to be “everything” and focus on what actually matters: writing great books. If you want book marketing to feel clearer, lighter, and more manageable, this episode is for you. In this episode, you’ll learn: How authors can stop trying to do everything and focus on writing, without their marketing falling apart How Book Brush accidentally became one of the most author-focused marketing tools by listening to what writers actually wanted Why visual marketing feels so overwhelming for authors—and how to simplify it without losing quality The biggest social media mistakes authors make (including the infamous random cactus post) Why consistency and brand clarity matter more than posting every day When authors should start thinking about marketing (hint: way earlier than launch day) The difference between DIY marketing, à la carte help, and full-service support—and how to know which one is right for you Check out the episode now!
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Amy Suto on Writing for Money, Power, and Creative Freedom — The Writing Coach Ep. 219
01/10/2026
Amy Suto on Writing for Money, Power, and Creative Freedom — The Writing Coach Ep. 219
What if writing didn’t have to mean struggling, waiting for permission, or giving away your best work to gatekeepers? In this episode of The Writing Coach Podcast, I sit down with writer, freelancer, novelist, and creator of multiple six-figure writing businesses, Amy Suto, to talk honestly about what it means to write for money and power in today’s creator economy. Amy’s career started in Hollywood, where she followed the traditional path many writers are told is the dream… and then walked away from it. What she built instead is a writing career rooted in autonomy, audience ownership, and creative control through freelancing, paid newsletters, self-publishing, and smart focus. In this conversation, we talk about: How writers can escape the “starving artist” myth Freelancing without burning out or underpricing yourself Why focus beats doing “all the things” How AI actually affects writers (and where it doesn’t) Writing as deep thinking not content churn Charging more so you can do better work Building sustainable income without selling your soul This is a wide-ranging, grounded conversation for writers who want to take their craft seriously and build a life that works—whether you’re a novelist, freelancer, editor, coach, or somewhere in between. Check out the episode now!
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6 Books in 2 Years: Anne Kane on Plotting, Productivity, and Motorcycle Romance — The Writing Coach Ep. 218
12/31/2025
6 Books in 2 Years: Anne Kane on Plotting, Productivity, and Motorcycle Romance — The Writing Coach Ep. 218
In this episode of The Writing Coach Podcast, I’m joined by author Anne Kane, who published six books in two years—including her hit motorcycle romance series ACE: Riptide MC—and is releasing Spirit Bear Conspiracy. We talk about what changed in Anne’s writing life over the last two years: how plotting sped up her drafting, why a genre shift helped her rediscover her love of writing, and what it’s like working with a small publisher that offers real support (covers, editing, marketing, and community). If you’re trying to finish a draft faster, write more consistently, or find the right genre “fit,” this conversation will give you practical insights—and a big dose of momentum. In this episode, we cover: Anne’s new release: Spirit Bear Conspiracy Publishing 6 books in 2 years (and what sparked the streak) Plotting vs pantsing (and why plotting made drafting faster) Why “motorcycle romance” is a powerful two-word pitch Action + romance: making the genre fun to read and write Small press publishing: support, process, and collaboration Listen now!
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Gala Russ on How to Stop Doing Things the Hard Way — The Writing Coach Ep. 217
12/16/2025
Gala Russ on How to Stop Doing Things the Hard Way — The Writing Coach Ep. 217
There’s a persistent myth in the writing world: that great books are created by lone geniuses, toiling away in isolation, waiting for inspiration to strike. It’s a compelling image. It’s also wildly unhelpful and mostly untrue. In this episode of The Writing Coach Podcast, I sat down with Gala Russ (author, editor, and writing coach) to talk about what actually helps writers grow: community, feedback, structure, emotional intelligence, and learning when to stop doing everything the hard way. Gala’s journey into writing didn’t follow a neat, linear path. She started publishing fiction on Wattpad, learned to write in a serialized format with live reader feedback, was eventually hired by the platform, and later moved into book coaching and developmental editing. Along the way, she studied linguistics, taught ESL, worked as a strategic consultant, collaborated with co-authors, and trained as a coach—bringing all of that experience into how she now helps writers. In our conversation, we dig into: Why so many writers struggle alone for years before asking for help How community and collaboration accelerate growth (without taking away your voice) The real difference between pantsers and plotters—and why it mostly disappears after draft one Why perfectionism is often a misunderstanding of how writing skill actually develops What co-authoring really requires (hint: it’s a lot like improv—and a lot like dating) How learning to write is more like learning a language than finishing a single project Why “DIY” doesn’t mean “do it alone,” whether you’re talking about punk rock or publishing We also talk about Gala’s approach to coaching, how she blends structure with intuition, strategy with somatics, and teaching with long-term support, plus what she’s working on next, including courses for beginner novelists and writers looking to integrate romance subplots into non-romance stories. Listen to the full episode below, and consider this your reminder that becoming a better writer doesn’t require more suffering—it requires better systems, better support, and a willingness to learn alongside other humans who care about the work as much as you do.
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Writing, Resistance, and Neurodiversity with Monica Hay - The Writing Coach Ep. 216
12/01/2025
Writing, Resistance, and Neurodiversity with Monica Hay - The Writing Coach Ep. 216
In this week’s episode of The Writing Coach Podcast, I sit down with writing coach Monica Hay for a conversation that goes deep into the psychology of writing. We talk ADHD, resistance, perfectionism, brain science, messy first drafts, why story structure works for some writers and absolutely sinks others, and the surprising power of taking up writing later in life. Monica also shares the behind-the-scenes process of building her innovative writing-buddy and critique-partner matching program If you’ve ever wrestled with procrastination, compared yourself to your favorite author, wondered why your drafts don’t match the masterpiece in your head, or felt like you “should” be further along by now… this conversation is going to feel like a warm hug from two coaches who’ve seen it all. Listen now!
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From Zen Kid to Wiccan Priest: Ivan Richmond on Ritual, Ethics, and the Spiritual Practice of Oneness — The Writing Coach 215
09/10/2025
From Zen Kid to Wiccan Priest: Ivan Richmond on Ritual, Ethics, and the Spiritual Practice of Oneness — The Writing Coach 215
On this episode of The Writing Coach Podcast, I sit down with my client, Ivan Richmond—a Wiccan priest, spiritual leader, and author of The Religion of Good. Ivan’s journey is a fascinating one: raised in a Zen Buddhist monastery community, he eventually found his way to Wicca, blending ancient philosophy with modern spiritual practice. In our conversation, we explore how ritual shapes meaning, why writing itself can be a kind of ecstatic practice, and how spirituality offers a path forward in what Ivan calls today’s “ethics crisis.” Whether you come from a faith background or consider yourself a skeptic, Ivan’s insights are practical, inspiring, and surprisingly universal. Listen now!
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Stephen Weinstock on Music, Theater, and Writing -- The Writing Coach 214
02/02/2025
Stephen Weinstock on Music, Theater, and Writing -- The Writing Coach 214
Hey there, writers and writing coaches! Today, we have a truly fascinating guest joining us. If you love storytelling that bends genres, experiments with structure, and dives deep into the magic of narrative, you’re in for a treat! Our guest is Steve Weinstock, a musician, educator, and author of The Reincarnation Chronicles, a genre-blending fantasy series inspired by 1001 Nights. Steve’s worked with the FAME school, Juilliard, and UC Berkeley, taught musical theater writing at NYU, and even improvised music for modern dance classes. He’s spent his career coaching artists, shaping stories, and exploring the ways different art forms—music, theater, dance, and literature—intersect. In this episode, we dig into Steve’s unique approach to storytelling, how his love for experimental literature and music composition influences his writing, and why he considers himself a “secret writing coach.” Plus, we reflect on our time together at the Ink & Impact Writers’ Retreat and how collaboration, creativity, and genre-bending can fuel great fiction. So grab a coffee, get comfy, and let’s dive in!
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Douglas Vigliotti on Aristotle for Novelists — The Writing Coach 213
11/28/2024
Douglas Vigliotti on Aristotle for Novelists — The Writing Coach 213
Welcome back to The Writing Coach! In our latest episode, I had the absolute pleasure of chatting with Douglas Vigliotti, author of the upcoming book Douglas brings Aristotle’s Poetics to life, showing how its ancient principles still resonate in modern storytelling. We dive deep into the building blocks of a great narrative, from mastering the three-act structure to understanding the profound impact of character believability. Douglas also explains the essential difference between comedies and tragedies and why understanding this distinction can transform your writing. In the episode, we cover topics such as: Aristotle’s Plot Principles: How a change in fortune and a connected sequence of events create a cohesive story. Character Crafting: The four characteristics of a “true” character and why they matter. Believability vs. Realism: Why stories don’t need to be realistic but must always feel believable. Dealing with Criticism: Aristotle’s timeless approach to fair criticism and how writers can embrace feedback without losing their confidence. Story Planning for Every Writer: Whether you’re a plotter or a pantser, Aristotle’s principles can help you refine your narrative. We also had some fun comparing storytelling techniques from Aristotle to modern masters like George Lucas, David Mamet, and even the creators of South Park. Douglas’s passion for storytelling is contagious, and his ability to bridge the gap between ancient philosophy and contemporary writing makes this interview a must-listen. Douglas doesn’t just talk theory—he offers actionable insights that any writer can apply. His practical approach to Aristotle’s teachings will inspire you to revisit your current projects with fresh eyes and a deeper understanding of story mechanics. Listen Now!
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Michael Leonard on Religous Sci-Fi — The Writing Coach 212
11/19/2024
Michael Leonard on Religous Sci-Fi — The Writing Coach 212
Episode Spotlight: Michael Leonard on Pilgrims, Aliens, and a Journey from Tech to Fiction This week on The Writing Coach Podcast, I’m thrilled to welcome my client, Michael Leonard, to discuss his debut novel, Pilgrims. Michael’s transition from a career in international business and tech to becoming a speculative fiction author is as fascinating as his book. Our conversation dives deep into the creative process, the challenges of publishing, and the philosophical questions that inspired his work. Pilgrims is no ordinary first-contact story. This science fiction novel takes readers on a journey that blends interstellar drama with profound metaphysical exploration. When aliens arrive on Earth with religion in tow, humanity is forced to confront faith, identity, and the meaning of existence. Michael’s unique take avoids the shallow tropes often seen in the genre, offering a thoughtful and original narrative that leaves readers thinking long after the last page. In this episode, Michael and I explore: • The emotional rollercoaster of launching a book and how to embrace the marathon of being an author. • The genesis of Pilgrims and how a childhood thought experiment evolved into a high-concept novel. • The art of world-building with philosophical depth, including how Michael tackled big questions without losing his narrative’s authenticity. • Why flawed characters create compelling stories—and how Michael ensured his protagonist was relatable despite his imperfections. • The immersive full-cast audiobook production of Pilgrims, featuring sound effects, music, and narration by Jeff Hayes of Dungeon Crawler Carl fame. Michael also reflects on the pivotal role of mentorship (spoiler alert: he gives me a lot of credit, which I humbly accept!) and shares actionable advice for aspiring authors, including the importance of investing in your craft and embracing the long game of a writing career. Whether you’re a science fiction fan, a writer looking for inspiration, or someone fascinated by the intersection of faith and storytelling, this episode is for you.
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Sandy Day on Re-Rleasing Books — The Writing Coach 211
11/16/2024
Sandy Day on Re-Rleasing Books — The Writing Coach 211
In this latest episode of The Writing Coach Podcast, I had the pleasure of chatting with one of my superstar clients, the multi-talented author Sandy Day. If you’re a fan of heartfelt and relatable stories set against rich Canadian backdrops, you’re going to love this conversation. Sandy returns to the podcast to talk about her re-released novel, Head on Backwards, Chest Full of Sand. This project, which began as a semi-autobiographical novella, has been expanded into a full-length novel. During our discussion, she opens up about the challenges of revisiting and revising older work, the joys of setting her story in the breathtaking landscape of Cape Breton, and the deep emotional resonance of her coming-of-age tale. We also delve into her unique writing journey, from studying under Canadian literary icons like Michael Ondaatje and BP Nichol to navigating the independent publishing world with skill and grace. Sandy’s insights into crafting authentic characters, embracing her identity as a Canadian author, and balancing humor with seriousness in her writing are fascinating. Plus, she shares her approach to connecting with readers through personal essays and newsletters, providing a glimpse into her creative process. Tune in now to hear about Sandy’s remarkable career, her thoughts on embracing specificity to achieve universality, and why Head on Backwards, Chest Full of Sand is a must-read.
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Emma Dhesi on the Four Pillars of Author Success
11/12/2024
Emma Dhesi on the Four Pillars of Author Success
In this episode of The Writing Coach Podcast, I had the pleasure of speaking with Emma Dhesi, a talented book coach who brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to the world of writing. We dive deep into her journey as a writer and coach, her unique approach to storytelling, and her personal and professional insights on crafting a fulfilling writing life. Emma shares her transformative journey from actress to librarian to accomplished book coach, describing the moments that shaped her passion for storytelling. Her story reminds us of the power of perseverance and the importance of finding joy in the process, even when the path isn’t always straightforward. Emma also describes the “Four Pillars of Author Success”—a roadmap she developed through her own experiences and coaching practice. Whether you’re penning your first chapter or navigating the complex world of publishing, these pillars offer valuable insights to help you find clarity, stay motivated, and, importantly, enjoy the ride. Tune in to hear Emma’s thoughts on navigating the ups and downs of writing, the joy of community and mentorship, and why having fun along the way is essential for a sustainable and fulfilling creative career. This conversation is packed with warmth, insight, and practical wisdom—a must-listen for anyone committed to growing as a writer. Listen now!
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Rhonda Douglas on Resilient Writing — The Writing Coach 209
11/02/2024
Rhonda Douglas on Resilient Writing — The Writing Coach 209
In this episode of The Writing Coach Podcast, I sit down with Rhonda Douglas, a Canadian writer and writing coach who is passionate about helping women and non-binary authors complete their first books. Rhonda shares her journey as a writer, including the powerful impact that early feedback and recognition had on her as a young writer. She also discusses her experience in MFA programs, where she learned invaluable lessons about story structure and craft. But the real heart of our conversation centers around the challenges that writers, especially women, face in actually finishing their books and getting them published. Rhonda discusses the fear, self-doubt, and distractions that can derail a writing project, and the strategies she’s developed to help her students overcome these obstacles. Overall, this conversation is packed with insights and practical advice for any writer. Listen to the episode now!
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Unveiling Author Marketing Secrets with Kimberley Grabas — The Writing Coach 208
10/05/2024
Unveiling Author Marketing Secrets with Kimberley Grabas — The Writing Coach 208
In the ever-evolving world of self-publishing, standing out as an author requires more than just talent—it takes strategy, resilience, and a strong understanding of the business side of being a writer. In the latest episode of The Writing Coach podcast, I speak with Kimberley Grabas, founder of and a veteran in the author marketing world. Kimberley and I have crossed paths numerous times over the past decade, and this conversation was the perfect chance to explore the biggest shifts in author marketing we’ve experienced. Kimberley and I both launched our careers in the early days of social media—when platforms like Twitter were new and figuring out how to market yourself online was the Wild West. Over the years, we’ve both learned that sustainable success in this industry requires more than just fleeting social media trends. During the interview, we discuss: What has changed in author marketing over the last decade How authors can build a foundation for long-term success The importance of knowing your target reader How to make marketing feel authentic, not forced Why you need to know your brand values before you start marketing And much more! This episode is packed with actionable insights into how the author marketing landscape has changed and how you can set yourself up for success. Kimberley’s advice will resonate with any writer looking to build a sustainable, thriving career, so listen now!
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Sue Brown-Moore on Character-Driven Storytelling — The Writing Coach 207
08/27/2024
Sue Brown-Moore on Character-Driven Storytelling — The Writing Coach 207
In this episode of The Writing Coach podcast, I chat with Sue Brown-Moore. Sue is a sought-after book revision coach and one of LA Weekly’s 15 Book Coaches to Watch. Sue and I discussed various aspects of fiction writing, including the importance of character-driven storytelling, imagination, romance, and authenticity. We share our experiences and perspectives on these topics, emphasizing the need for a comprehensive approach to storytelling and the importance of inclusivity and character-driven narratives. We also discuss pricing strategies for coaching and consulting services, with a focus on maintaining personal space and high-ticket, low-volume work. Listen now!
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Beth Barany on Unleashing Your Creativity — The Writing Coach 206
07/14/2024
Beth Barany on Unleashing Your Creativity — The Writing Coach 206
Looking for inspiration, guidance, and a fresh perspective on your craft? You are in the right place. In this week’s episode of The Writing Coach podcast, I sit down with Beth Barany, a creativity coach, NLP expert, and accomplished author. Beth shares her fascinating journey from aspiring doctor to published writer, and offers invaluable insights on nurturing creativity, finding joy in the writing process, and approaching marketing with a heart-centered approach. Beth’s unique blend of playfulness, emotional intelligence, and practical advice will leave you energized and ready to tackle your next writing project. Join us as we explore the world of science fiction, indie publishing, and the power of embracing your creative side. Listen now!
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Brooke Adams Law on Writing Brave -- The Writing Coach 205
07/02/2024
Brooke Adams Law on Writing Brave -- The Writing Coach 205
In this episode of The Writing Coach podcast, writing coach Kevin Johns speaks with author and writing coach Brooke Adams Law.
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Sarah Elisabeth Sawyer on Writing, American Indians, and Dictation — The Writing Coach 204
05/31/2024
Sarah Elisabeth Sawyer on Writing, American Indians, and Dictation — The Writing Coach 204
In this episode of The Writing Coach podcast, writing coach Kevin Johns speaks with author and writing coach Sarah Elisabeth Sawyer. Sarah Elisabeth Sawyer is an author and writing instructor who takes authors struggling to master the tools and knowledge of their author journey and help them become confident in writing their books. She has been featured on Joanna Penn’s The Creative Penn podcast, Mark Dawson’s Self Publishing Show, Jane Friedman’s blog, and more. As a tribal member of the Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma, her signature course, Fiction Writing: American Indians, equips authors to write authentic stories that honor Native American history and culture. Her Dictation Bootcamp for Authors takes authors through the process of mastering dictation through easy exercises that help them become masters of their fictional worlds. Listen now!
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Marketing is About Small Actions (Not Big Lauches)
05/24/2024
Marketing is About Small Actions (Not Big Lauches)
In this episode of The Writing Coach podcast, writing coach Kevin Johns discusses the significance of small acts of kindness and their impact on his life, as well as the role of personality in shaping an artist's reputation. He explains how the behavior of various artists--from writers to comic book artists to musicians--have influenced his perception of their work and how some of the most powerful acts of marketing involve small, personal actions.
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Writing is Magic -- The Writing Coach 202
05/17/2024
Writing is Magic -- The Writing Coach 202
In this episode of the Writing Coach podcast, host Kevin T. Johns explores the power and magic of words. He discusses how words have the ability to shape our understanding of reality and perception. Through examples from language evolution, psychology, and literature, Kevin illustrates how the introduction of new words and terms can completely change cultural conversations and perspectives over time.
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Thoughts on 10 Writing Tips from Phoebe Waller-Bridge
05/10/2024
Thoughts on 10 Writing Tips from Phoebe Waller-Bridge
Welcome to the latest episode of The Writing Coach podcast with Kevin T. Johns. In this episode, Kevin discusses writing tips from Phoebe Waller-Bridge, the creator of the acclaimed TV show Fleabag. Kevin goes over 10 tips from Waller-Bridge on aspects like starting with funny personal experiences, using comedy and drama together effectively, developing complex and imperfect characters, prioritizing truthfulness and excitement, and more. Kevin shares his perspective on each tip from Waller-Bridge, while also emphasizing the importance of structure in writing.
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What Would Luke Skywalker Do? -- The Writing Coach 200
05/03/2024
What Would Luke Skywalker Do? -- The Writing Coach 200
Celebrating the 200th episode of the show, along with Star Wars Day 2024, writing coach Kevin T. Johns explores his lifelong relationship with the Star Wars story and franchise.
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My Favourite Memoirs
04/26/2024
My Favourite Memoirs
Writing Coach Kevin T. Johns discusses some of his favourite books from the memoir genre.
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How to Land a Literary Agent with One Email - The Writing Coach 198
04/19/2024
How to Land a Literary Agent with One Email - The Writing Coach 198
Writing coach Kevin T. Johns reveals how his client was able to land an offer of representation from a literary agent after sending a single email.
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Arrogance, Ignorance, and Apprenticeship – The Writing Coach 197
04/12/2024
Arrogance, Ignorance, and Apprenticeship – The Writing Coach 197
Inspired by a Simon Sinek quote about arrogance and humility, in this episode of The Writing Coach podcast, host Kevin T. Johns explores how the modern view of writing as a talent differs from its historical roots as a trade. He explores how ancient scribes and medieval monks approached writing as a form of labour and how during the Renaissance writers were integrated into guilds and apprenticeship programs. This episode will show you how embracing humility and pursuing apprenticeships can help you better understand writing’s mechanics as both an art and trade. Listen to the episode now!
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