For Women who Write

How do you know if your book is actually any good?If you've ever asked yourself that question, you're not alone. It's one of the most common fears writers face—but it may not be the question that's really keeping you stuck.In this episode, we're unpacking what's underneath that question. We'll talk about why seeking constant reassurance never brings the confidence you're hoping for, how fear can shape the way you see your writing, and why no one can guarantee your book's success before it's written.You'll also learn how to define what a "good" book means for you, why understanding your reader matters more than trying to please everyone, and how to stop waiting for certainty so you can keep moving forward with confidence.If you've been wondering whether your idea is worth pursuing, I hope this episode helps you ask a better question—one that puts you back in the driver's seat of your writing journey.If you're ready for personalized guidance as you shape your book, I'd love to help. Strategy Sessions are designed to help you gain clarity on your message, strengthen your book concept, and create a plan you can move forward with confidence.Click the link in the show notes to learn more and book your Strategy Session.

What happens after you publish your book?In this inspiring episode of For Women Who Write, Mikaela sits down with author, speaker, and former educator Christy Smith to discuss her journey from aspiring writer to published author of It Begins with a Book: An Everyday Guide to Growing Young Readers.Christy shares how she explored different writing paths, including poetry and children’s stories, before discovering the book she was truly meant to write. Together, she and Mikaela unpack the power of community, the importance of knowing your ideal reader, and how consistent writing habits helped turn a dream into reality.They also dive into what life has looked like since publication, including podcast appearances, speaking engagements, homeschool events, collaborations with other authors, newsletter growth, and expanded book distribution through major retailers.If you’ve ever wondered whether your book could create new opportunities, build your platform, or make a lasting impact, this conversation is proof that writing a book can be the beginning of something much bigger.In this episode, you'll learn:• How Christy found the right book idea after feeling stuck• Why community and coaching played a key role in her writing journey• The process of structuring a practical nonfiction book for busy parents• How consistent writing habits helped her finish her manuscript• What opportunities opened up after publishing her book• How writing a book strengthened her speaking career• Why understanding your ideal reader changes everythingConnect with Christy Smith:Website: christiannewrites.comBook: It Begins with a Book: An Everyday Guide to Growing Young Readers

AI has quickly become one of the biggest conversations in the writing world. Some writers embrace it. Others want nothing to do with it. So where should it fit into the writing process?In this episode, I'm sharing my personal thoughts on AI as a book coach, editor, and writer. You'll hear why I believe your stories, experiences, and wisdom are the parts of your book that should never be outsourced, where I think AI can be helpful, and how I've been learning to establish my own limits as this technology continues to grow.We'll talk about the difference between information and transformation, why your voice matters more than ever, and how to think through AI in a way that aligns with your values as a writer.If you've been wondering whether AI has a place in your writing process, this conversation will help you think through the question with clarity and confidence.

In this episode of For Women Who Write, Mikaela challenges one of the most common beliefs aspiring authors hold: “I’m not a writer.”If you've ever felt like you aren't creative enough, talented enough, or qualified enough to write a book, this conversation is for you. Mikaela explores how limiting beliefs formed through past experiences, criticism, and self-doubt can keep women from pursuing the book that's been on their hearts for years.Through personal stories and powerful examples, she reveals why writing isn't about fitting a certain mold or possessing natural talent. Instead, it's about showing up consistently, developing your skills, and embracing the identity of someone who has something meaningful to share.In this episode, you'll learn:• Why the belief “I’m not a writer” may be the biggest obstacle standing between you and your book• How past experiences can shape your identity—and how to rewrite that narrative• The difference between being a writer and feeling like a writer• Why consistency and practice matter more than perfection• How to redefine “good writing” as creating transformation for your readers• Practical mindset shifts to help you start writing with more confidence and less fearIf you've been waiting for permission to write your book, this episode is your reminder that writers are simply people who write. Your story matters, your message has value, and the book you dream of writing may be much closer than you think.

What does it really look like to write a book while running businesses, raising children, and managing everyday life?In this episode, Mikaela sits down with author, marketer, and entrepreneur Miranda Trudeau to talk about the honest realities of writing and launching a book. Miranda shares how she knew it was finally the right season to write her second book, No Place I'd Rather Be, the systems that helped her make progress in small pockets of time, and what it took to successfully launch the book to bestseller status.Together, they discuss balancing motherhood and creativity, overcoming imposter syndrome, building a launch strategy that feels authentic, and why defining success before you write can change everything.Whether you're still dreaming about writing your first book or preparing to launch your next one, this conversation will encourage you to stop waiting for perfect conditions and start taking the next step.In this episode, you'll learn: How to know if it's the right season to write a book  The difference between "sprint" writers and "marathon" writers  How to create time for writing in a busy life  What a successful book launch actually looks like  Why marketing starts long before launch day  How to define success for your book beyond sales  Why your unique perspective matters—even in a crowded market If you've been waiting for a sign to write the book, this might be it.

In this episode of For Women Who Write, Mikaela answers one of the most important questions aspiring authors face: When should you hire a book coach or editor?Through a personal story about assembling furniture without following the instructions, Mikaela shares why having the right guidance from the beginning can save writers time, frustration, and unnecessary revisions. She explains the distinct roles of a book coach and an editor, how they support different stages of the writing journey, and why she believes coaching is most valuable at the start of the process.In this episode, you'll discover:The difference between a book coach and an editorWhy early support can strengthen your book's foundationCommon mistakes writers make when trying to navigate the process aloneThe importance of structure, strategy, and accountabilityHow to gain clarity and confidence in your book idea before you start writingWhether you're still exploring a book idea or already working on a manuscript, this episode offers practical insights to help you move forward with greater confidence and purpose.For more information about Mikaela's one-on-one strategy sessions, check out the links in the show notes.

In this solo episode of For Women Who Write Podcast, Mikaela tackles one of the biggest struggles aspiring authors face: figuring out what to write about.If you’ve ever thought, “I want to write a book, but I don’t know what my book should be about,” or “I have too many ideas and no clarity,” this episode will help you move past the mental block and finally gain direction.Drawing from both coaching and parenting, Mikaela shares how asking the right questions can move you out of overwhelm, overthinking, and “freeze mode” and into clarity and action.Inside this episode, you’ll learn: The 7 powerful questions to ask before writing your book  How to uncover the deeper reason you want to write  Why anger and frustration can point you toward your strongest message  How to identify the problem your book is meant to solve  The difference between a legacy book and a marketplace book  How to narrow your topic so your message actually stands out  Why specificity matters if you want readers to find and trust you  How to know if your book idea has real transformation potential Whether you’re overflowing with ideas or completely stuck, this episode will help you gain clarity, confidence, and momentum toward your book.Sometimes the breakthrough comes from asking better questions and giving yourself permission to explore the answers honestly.

In this episode of For Women Who Write Podcast, Mikaela sits down with leadership coach and strategist Kristen to talk about the real behind-the-scenes journey of writing and publishing her first book, The Mama Bear Leader: How Human Centered Leadership Can Reimagine the Way We Work.From navigating self-doubt and stop-start momentum to finding clarity through structure, Kristen shares how she went from “I think I want to write a book” to completing a manuscript that now serves as the foundation of her coaching business and speaking platform.Together, Mikaela and Kristen dive into: How to know if your ideas are meant to become a book  Why structure and outlining can completely change the writing process  Balancing writing with motherhood, work, and everyday life  Using your book to clarify your message and build your brand  The mindset shifts required to finally finish your manuscript  What it really feels like to prepare for your first book launch If you’ve been sitting on a book idea, struggling to organize your thoughts, or wondering whether your story and expertise are “enough,” this conversation will encourage you to keep going.Because your book doesn’t just change your business — it changes you.

In this live coaching session, Mikaela sits down with nervous system coach and mom of two, Shena Black, to help her narrow down her book idea.This episode gives you a behind-the-scenes look at the book-writing process as Mikaela coaches Shena through clarifying her book idea, identifying her message, narrowing her audience, and building a transformational framework designed to help overwhelmed moms experience more peace, presence, and confidence in motherhood.

If you’ve ever thought, “I want to write a book… but I don’t know what to write about,” this episode is for you.Today, Mikaela walks you through the powerful questions that help aspiring authors move past overwhelm, overthinking, and mental blocks so they can finally gain clarity on their book idea.Drawing from parenting psychology, coaching principles, and years of experience helping women write and publish books, Mikaela explains why asking the right questions can unlock creativity and move you out of “freeze mode” and into action.In this episode, you’ll learn:Why your “why” matters more than you thinkHow anger can actually point you toward your messageThe problem/solution framework behind compelling nonfiction booksHow to know if your book idea will work in the marketplaceWhy specificity matters when choosing your topicThe key question that helps determine whether your book has a clear transformationWhether you have too many ideas, no ideas, or you’re simply unsure what direction to take, this episode will help you uncover the message you’re truly meant to write.Plus, Mikaela shares practical exercises and journal prompts you can use immediately to gain clarity and confidence in your next step as an author.Join us for a workshop here! 

Marketing can feel uncomfortable for so many writers.You finally finish the book . . . and then realize people actually need to know it exists.In this episode, Mikaela sits down with marketing strategist and publishing partner Miranda Trudeau to talk about what marketing really is—and what it isn’t.Together, they unpack:• Why marketing feels “icky” for so many women• The mindset shift that changes everything• How to think about marketing as leadership and service• Why relationship-building matters more than algorithms• Social media, Instagram, Threads, and whether you actually need them• How to market your book without becoming someone you’re not• What makes a strong bestseller launch• The practical steps authors should take before launch dayThis conversation is honest, encouraging, and deeply practical for writers who want to share their work confidently without sounding pushy or performative.Marketing is simply helping the right people find the message they’ve already been looking for.

Have you ever felt called to write a Bible study or devotional but were not sure where to start or how they are different?In this episode, I break it all down for my faith-based writers. We dive into the key differences between devotionals and Bible studies, what readers expect from each, and how you can structure your content to truly impact lives. I walk you through how to create a clear transformation for your reader, choose a focused theme, and build a strong outline that keeps your writing intentional and effective.Whether you are writing for busy moms, women navigating loss, or anyone seeking deeper faith, this episode will give you practical steps and clarity to move forward with confidence.If you are ready to finally bring your Bible study or devotional to life, this episode is for you.

If people keep telling you to write a book, this episode is for you.I’m joined by my client Lyndi Zavy, author of Cheerleading from Quicksand, to talk about what it actually looked like to take her message from scattered ideas into a finished book while she was still living it.We talk about burnout (or what she calls “quicksand”), writing in the middle of the process, and how her ideas went from dozens of documents into one clear, structured manuscript.You’ll also hear the simple framework she now uses to help others move forward and why structure matters more than most writers think.In this episode, we talk about: • The moment she realized “burnout” didn’t fully capture what she was experiencing and why she started calling it “quicksand” instead  • What it looks like to write a book in the middle of your own process, not after it’s neatly resolved • How her ideas lived across dozens of documents before becoming one clear manuscript • Why having support (a coach, an editor, real accountability) made the difference between “almost written” and finished • And the simple framework she built—the 3 D’s and ABC’s—that now helps others find their way back to solid groundIf your book idea has been sitting in Google Docs, half-started and unfinished, this will meet you right there.Connect with Lyndi:• Rivers & Roads • Book: Cheerleading from Quicksand (available now)

Brianna LaShell Rabb is a nonprofit coach, legacy strategist, and now a published, Amazon bestselling author of The Work That Outlives You. In this episode, Mikaela sits down with her very first podcast guest to talk about what the book-writing journey actually looked like from the inside.Brianna started her first nonprofit at 16. She's been in the sector for over a decade. And still, she hesitated. Not because she didn't have enough to say, but because she wasn't sure she had permission to say it. In this conversation, we talk about:How Brianna knew she was actually ready to write the book (hint: it wasn't when she felt fully confident)Why she chose to work with a coach instead of figuring it out alone The moment mid-process when she scrapped a month's worth of work for a new framework What launch day actually felt like The exciting results post-bookThis is a conversation about doing the thing. And when you're ready to make it happen like Breanna, join me for the Plan your Book Workshop! 

Before you write a single word, there's one step most aspiring authors skip. It's also the reason so many books never get finished. This episode breaks down the five signs that tell you it's time to stop waiting and start outlining. From knowing your why to finding your unique angle in a crowded space, these are the markers that separate women who dream about writing a book from the ones who actually do it. If you've been wondering whether you're "ready," this episode will give you a clear, honest answer.And if you're ready to join a workshop, click the link here! 

If you have a podcast, there’s a good chance you’re already holding the foundation of a book.You just haven’t structured it yet.In this episode, we’re walking through what it actually looks like to take your podcast content and turn it into something more permanent. Something structured. Something you’d feel proud putting your name on.Because talking and writing are not the same.And that’s where most people get stuck.Inside this episode, we cover:• Why 15–20 minutes of speaking often equals a full book chapter• How to identify the one idea your book needs to be built around• What it takes to turn scattered episodes into a cohesive outlineA podcast lets you explore, but a book requires you to decide. And once that decision is made, everything gets easier.If you’ve been sitting on dozens of episodes, you might just be sitting on a book too. Join us for a clarity workshop! 

Let’s talk about something most writers completely miss.You start researching how to write a book and suddenly you’re flooded with advice on writing, publishing, marketing.But there’s a step that quietly gets skipped.And it’s usually the reason you feel stuck.In this episode, I’m walking you through why outlining isn’t optional, and why trying to “figure it out while you write” is what creates so much frustration in the first place.Here’s the truth: Good writing is clear thinking.And if the thinking isn’t done first, the writing will feel heavy, scattered, and hard to finish.We’ll walk through:• Why writing without an outline feels like a constant restart• The difference between thinking and writing (and why mixing them slows you down)• What a real outline actually includes (not the high school version)• The three decisions you need before you write a single chapterThen come join me for a clarity workshop here! 

“Extraordinary results are directly determined by how narrow you can make your focus.” — Gary KellerThere’s a point in business where doing more stops working.More ideas. More offers. More directions pulling at you.And instead of building momentum, you start to feel scattered.That’s where I found myself recently.In this episode, I’m sharing a decision I made that changes how I run my business moving forward—and why it felt both difficult and necessary.If you’ve been feeling pulled in too many directions or your ideas feel crowded.If you know something needs to change but you haven’t named it yet…This episode will meet you there.🎧 Listen in.And if you're ready for a next step, learn more about the Outline Intensives! 

What do you do when someone else has already written on your topic?Or worse—when it feels like everyone has?In this episode, we’re talking about the discouragement that can creep in when you realize your book idea isn’t “new.”Originality in nonfiction is rarely about inventing a brand-new subject. It’s about bringing structure, specificity, and a distinct angle to a shared conversation.If you’ve ever wondered:• “Is this too saturated?”• “Who am I to write this?”• “Do I need a more unique idea?”This conversation will ground you. You don't need a brand new idea. You just need the right angle and structure. And that's something we can build. If you want help with that, join us for another workshop! 

I’ve got a pet peeve.A real, “nails on a chalkboard” kind of pet peeve.When people call self-publishing “vanity publishing,” I about jump out of my skin.Only in the literary world do we call an artist taking agency… vanity.A musician bypassing a record label? We celebrate.A filmmaker ignoring a production studio? Indie and impressive.A writer choosing not to pitch agents and self-publishing? Suddenly it’s suspect.Let’s talk about it.In this episode, I’m getting a little preachy about:• Why bypassing gatekeepers isn’t the issue• What actually separates a strong independent book from a rushed one• What high-quality self-publishing truly requiresBecause the method isn’t what determines credibility.Training, structure, paid professionals do. If you’ve been quietly on the fence about self-publishing—not because you want shortcuts, but because you want ownership—this episode is for you.You can take agency. And still take craft seriously.And if you're ready to find your own book idea, join me for the Find Your Book Workshop! 

You do not need 20,000 followers to publish a book that sells.You need a message that resonates.In this episode, I’m breaking down the myth that platform size determines success—and why books gain traction when the message connects deeply with the right reader.If you’ve been thinking:“I should grow my audience first…” “I’ll write the book when I have more followers…” “What if no one buys it?”This conversation will steady you.A resonant message builds momentum. A large platform can’t compensate for a message that doesn’t land.If you’re early in the idea stage and feeling pressure to grow before you write, this episode will help you think differently.And if you’re ready to shape a message that actually connects—the Find Your Book Workshop is the next step.

Most aspiring authors think the first step to publishing a book is opening a blank document and starting Chapter One.It’s not.Before you write the book, you have to become the writer.In this episode, I’m breaking down the training season most authors need. Books aren’t written by bursts of inspiration. They’re built by feedback, discipline, and creative passion. That comes first through training. We’ll talk about:How writing a book is like running a marathonWhy you need training How to train to write a bookHow to know when you should write a book If you’ve been staring at a blank page or keep dreaming of writing a book but never acting on it, this episode will show you what to do instead.

One of the biggest fears authors face: What if no one buys my book?In this episode, we unpack the launch that broke the internet: Alex Hormozi’s $100M Leads rollout—and how it shattered expectations for what a nonfiction book launch could look like.But here’s the thing: you don’t need millions of dollars or a publicity team to apply these principles.You’ll learn:How Hormozi made his book the event (not just a release)What he did before launch day that made all the differenceAnd how you can borrow the same psychology to position your book📣 Tune in, take notes, and start thinking like a marketer—not just a writer.Then download your free ChatGPT prompts here. 

Staring at a blank page? Roughly 85% of writers have felt the sting of writer’s block—but only 3% ever finish their book. In this episode, Mikaela shares why that happens, what writer’s block is really telling you, and how to stop letting it derail your calling.You’ll walk away with mindset shifts, practical strategies, and a deeper understanding of what to do when the blinking cursor makes you question everything.If you’ve ever thought, Shouldn’t this feel easier? this episode is for you.And if you're ready to get unstuck, join us for a workshop here. 

Ever feel like you’re not a “real” writer because your words don’t come out perfect on the first try? Or because you're still figuring out your voice, your message, your thing?In this episode, we’re throwing out the old rulebook about what it means to be a good writer—and looking instead at what actually moves people.From Cher’s epic comebacks, to Marvel’s billion-dollar storytelling formula, to Carl Jung’s theory of archetypes—we’re breaking down the one thing all unforgettable stories have in common: transformation.And guess what? That’s the whole point of the Hero’s Journey.This episode will help you:Redefine what it really means to be a good writer (spoiler: it’s not perfect grammar)See your own writing journey as a transformation worth honoringUse story structure (not self-doubt) to get unstuck and start showing upIf you’ve been sitting on your book, your blog, your voice—this one’s for you. And if you're ready to take a next step, join my monthly workshop here. 

Book coach or editor? Knowing the difference could save your book and your sanity.In this episode, we’re breaking down the key distinction between a book coach and an editor, and why when you bring them into your process matters.If you’ve been spinning your wheels, wondering if your message is strong enough, if your structure makes sense, or if you’re even “ready” for feedback . . . this conversation is for you.You’ll learn:Why an editor isn’t your first step (and what they’re really great at)What a book coach doesHow to know which one you need right now, based on where you are in the writing processIf you’ve been craving strategic guidance and emotional support—the kind that helps you move forward without second-guessing every word—this episode will give you clarity, confidence, and next steps.

I’m pulling back the curtain on my 2026 goals—from making publishing more financially accessible to creating new opportunities for first-time authors like you. If you’ve been sitting on a book idea (or three), now’s the time to get moving.💡 Join me inside the Find Your Book Idea Workshop this January — a powerful teaching + coaching session to help you get clear on your message and start your book with confidence. Spots are limited!(And here's that Gospel Coalition article I mentioned!) 

If you’re writing a book to grow your business, establish authority, or share your story—you need to know the difference between memoir and prescriptive nonfiction.In this episode, we’re unpacking how these two genres serve your reader differently—and why choosing the wrong one can lead to confusion, negative reviews, and flatlined book sales.You’ll learn: • What readers actually expect from each genre • Why your structure, tone, and content must align with your category • How the right genre choice boosts reviews, word-of-mouth, and long-term sales✨ JOIN: Find Your Book Idea Workshop

Want to become a better writer?In this episode, I’m sharing the books I recommend to every aspiring author who wants to write a powerful, bestselling book. We’re talking nonfiction, fiction, craft, marketing, and even mindset. If you’ve ever wondered what to read before you write, or what books actually help you finish the one you’ve started, this is for you.And at the end, I’ll show you how to actually implement everything you learn in these books. Let’s turn you into the kind of writer you’ve always wanted to be.JOIN: Book Building WorkshopBROWSE FICTION: Fiction Writing Resources on Amazon BROWSE NONFICTION BOOKS: Nonfiction Writing Resources on Amazon BROWSE WRITING LIFE: Writing Life Resources on Amazon 

If you’ve ever wondered why some books position the author as a go-to expert—while others fall flat—it often comes down to one thing: editing. And not just proofreading. We’re talking strategic, compassionate editing that turns good ideas into great books.In this episode, I'm pulling back the curtain on what successful authors do before they launch. You’ll learn the different types of edits (developmental, line, copy), which one you actually need, and how editing can elevate your book from “okay” to beautiful and credibility-building. If you're serious about using your book to grow your business, get speaking gigs, or fulfill a lifelong dream—this is the episode you can’t afford to skip.Click here to book a call! Click here to join the Book Building Workshop! 

In this week’s podcast episode, I’m breaking down 5 mistakes self-publishing authors make. We’re talking about:What most first-time authors completely overlook The silent killer of book-based business growth Why great writing isn’t the only thing that matters Whether you’re just starting to write, stuck in editing mode, or planning your launch, this episode will help you move forward smarter.You’ve got a powerful message.Let’s make sure it doesn’t get buried under rookie mistakes.Click here to get the ChatGPT prompts. Click here to learn more about the Book-Building Workshop! 

On this week's episode of For Women Who Write podcast, I've compiled everything I've learned being in the freelance/entrepreneur space for over 10 years. You'll hear:The principles that still apply regardless of the economyThe one question you must answer--freelancer or entrepreneur?And, how the most successful writers make it workWant to book a call with us to start your book? 

Let’s talk about the good, the bad, and the (sometimes really frustrating) truth about publishing a book.If you’ve ever wondered whether you should go the traditional route or take full control and self-publish, this episode is your guide to making a confident, informed decision—without getting lost in the noise or stuck in analysis paralysis.In this episode, I break down:The real pros and cons of self-publishing vs. traditionalWhat most people get wrong about self-publishingHow to choose the path that aligns with your goals, values, and visionWhether you're dreaming of landing a book deal or you're curious about publishing on your own terms, this episode will help you weigh your options with clarity and confidence—so you can move forward without second-guessing.

Thinking about writing a book but not sure if now is the right time?Before you dive into outlines, word counts, or late-night writing sprints, this episode will help you pause and ask the right questions first. In this episode, we’ll walk through 5 key questions that everyone should ask before they start writing. These are the same questions I ask my private clients—and they’ll help you discern if you're truly ready, or if there’s some groundwork to lay first.You’ll walk away with:The 3Ls of book writing Confidence around your timing and purposeA fresh perspective on what it actually takes to write a book that sellsIf you’ve been feeling the nudge to write—but also wondering if you're ready—this conversation will help you get honest, grounded, and intentional before you take the leap.

If you've always dreamed of writing a book but feel stuck on where to begin—or how to actually finish—this episode will give you the clarity you’ve been craving.In this episode, I’m breaking down the exact 7-step publishing path I walk my clients through—from idea to published, positioned, and profitable. Whether you want your book to attract clients, land speaking gigs, or fulfill a bucket list dream, these steps will help you move forward with purpose (and peace of mind).You’ll learn:Why writing isn’t the first step (and what is)How to map out a publishing plan that fits youWhat you should pay for and what you should DIYThis is your roadmap to finally getting your book out of your head—and into the hands of the people who need it most.