The Rogue Author - Episode 3: Choose Joy Over Fear (Why the AI Debate is Missing the Point)

In this episode, Scarlet tackles the toxic polarization around AI in the author community, inspired by Steph Pajonas's article about author Kevin McLaughlin who almost quit writing because AI was stealing his joy which you can find here.In this article, Steph breaks down why the current AI debate is missing the point entirely and explores the two things every author career needs to survive long-term.Scarlet exposes the conspiracy behind fear-based gatekeeping in the Anti-AI movement, shares a powerful story about an author who spent hundreds of thousands on audiobook production, and dismantles the toxic "suffer for your art" mentality that's keeping authors miserable. From the flawed "one-size-fits-all" industry advice to why struggle doesn't make you more worthy of success, this episode challenges authors to choose joy over fear and build sustainable careers around what actually brings them happiness.Whether you're pro-AI, anti-AI, or somewhere in between, this conversation is really about protecting your creative joy and making choices that serve your long-term sustainability as an author. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit therogueauthorpodcast.substack.com