Writers Need to Be Adaptable

Whenever most people dream about being a published author, they don’t often dream about writing tie-in fiction, journalism, or working inside someone else’s world. But for a lot of writers, especially early in their careers, flexibility is what actually keeps the lights on.That’s why I invited YA author and tabletop RPG designer James Sutter to join me on Most Writers Are Fans. James is one of the creators of the Starfinder TTRPG, a former editor in Paizo’s fiction division, and someone who has seen the industry from nearly every angle: as a writer, a collaborator, and a gatekeeper.We talk about what it really means to be a professional writer, why being able to write in different styles and voices matters, and how working in IP-driven or journalistic spaces can sharpen your craft rather than dilute it. James also shares insight into what editors are actually looking for, and how writers can position themselves as reliable, adaptable collaborators.If you’re a writer who loves storytelling but isn’t sure a single lane will ever be enough, or if you’re curious about how people actually make careers work around creative passion, this episode is for you.