From Blank Page to Published: The Self-Publishing Journey

Are you hesitant to start writing your book because of doubts or misconceptions? In this episode, Natalie Saar shares her rich experience navigating the self-publishing landscape, busts common myths, and provides practical advice to help you start and finish your book with confidence and authenticity.Natalie Saar is an accomplished self-published author ofeight books — spanning both fiction and non-fiction — and a passionate advocate for writers who are ready to stop waiting and start creating. She is the founder of The Indie Authors, a resource hub designed to help writers gain visibility, improve SEO traction, and confidently move from idea to final product with practical workbooks and guidance.Main Topics:The evolution and opportunities in self-publishing since 2012Essential steps and tips for starting your first bookCommon myths about indie publishing and how to overcome themThe importance of storytelling, authenticity, and your "why"Emotional hurdles: handling criticism and embracing imperfectionStrategies for building your platform beyond just social mediaTimestamps:00:00 The Journey to Self-Publishing02:02 Navigating the Self-Publishing Landscape07:54 Overcoming Self-Doubt and Budget Constraints12:00 The Evolution of the Publishing Industry23:45 The Importance of Email Lists and Self-Advocacy27:06 Debunking Myths of Self-Publishing29:03 The Risks of Independent Publishing31:24 The Unique Appeal of Indie Books33:07 Embracing Imperfection in Creative Work35:08 The Journey of Growth and Learning36:07 The Challenge of Perfectionism38:30 Creating a Roadmap for Authors40:16 The Writing Process: Self-Publishing vs. Traditional Publishing43:18 Understanding Reader Preferences48:33 Emotional Hurdles in Writing50:29 Rediscovering Authentic Voice55:26 Navigating Emotional Challenges 53:59 Life Transitions and Identity58:10 The Power of Storytelling01:02:19 Practical Steps for Aspiring Writers01:11:57 Understanding Your Why01:16:38 Embracing Your PurposeEpisode Resources:About your host:Leann Herron is a Certified Life and Holistic Health Coach who is a passionate advocate for women’s health and empowerment, devoted to helping midlife women break free from cycles of over-giving and the stories that keep them stuck. Leann guides women to release stress, reclaim their energy, and create lives that truly fulfill them—body, mind, and spirit.Connect with Leann:Finding Resilience with LeannWebsite: https://findingresiliencewithleann.com Linktree: https://linktr.ee/findingresiliencewithleann LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/leannherron/Guest:Natalie Saar is a self-published author of 8 books, both fiction and non-fiction. She is passionate about helping people follow their writing dreams and more generally in helping people become their best self through gentle improvement techniques. She believes that life already comes with enough challenges; we need to learn how to be our own best friend and cheerleader instead of our biggest critic.Connect with Natalie:Website: https://nataliesaar.com/Instagram: https://instagram.com/nataliesaar#selfpublishing #indieauthor #womenwhowrite #authorlife #personaldevelopment #bookpublishing #vulnerability #fiction #nonfiction