Books, Business, & Mindset - A Podcast for Authors

Today on the podcast, we are doing something a little bit different.We're going to take a couple of minutes for peace and stillness while Jen walk you through a mindfulness exercise. You can do this sitting at your desk, sitting on the couch, lying down on your bed, anywhere that is comfortable and your body feels supported.Work It: A 6- Week Coaching Intensive for Authors Information, Wait List Sign Up, testimonials: https://www.jentheeditor.com/work-it Where to find JenWebsite: https://www.jentheeditor.com/All the socials: @jentheeditorSubscribe to Jen's newsletter for Author Marketing and Mental Health tipshttps://www.jentheeditor.com/subscribe

In this wide‑ranging conversation, award‑winning author R.L. Merrill joins Jen to talk about creativity, resilience, and finding joy in the writing life. Ro shares how music shapes her stories, how she writes across multiple genres (from contemporary romance to paranormal to horror), and why hope and acceptance are at the core of her work.She opens up about writing through personal hardship, caring for family, navigating chronic illness, raising queer kids, and embracing the messy, magical intersection of art and real life. Ro also talks candidly about career expectations, resisting “shoulds,” and building a sustainable author business that aligns with your capacity and values.If you need inspiration, encouragement, or a reminder that your writing path is allowed to look like your writing path, this episode delivers.  • How music fuels storytelling • Writing queer, paranormal, horror, and cross‑genre fiction • Creativity during burnout, illness, and caregiving • Building a long-term author career without chasing every trend • Embracing hope and acceptance in fiction • Finding community, collecting people, and celebrating wins • What Ro’s 60+ published works have taught her • Book and music recommendations to refill your creative wellWhere to find R.L. Merrill (she/her)www.rlmerrillauthor.comfacebook.com/rlmerrillauthorBookBub: https://www.bookbub.com/profile/r-l-merrillTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@rlmerrillauthor1342Playlists for Ro’s BooksHealer by R.L. MerrillLinksHorror AddictsAgents Irish & Whiskey – The Complete Series Audiobookby Layla RayneWhite Trash Warlock by David R. SlaytonThe Thorn & The Spire by Katherine McIntyreBottle-Shock by Kim FieldingAncient Obsession - Critter Catchers by Hank EdwardsFool’s Puzzle – A Benni Harper Mystery by Earlene FowlerSleep Token YouTube ChannelLord Huron NPR Music Tiny Desk ConcertDie Spitz YouTube ChannelAbout R. L. MerrillAward-winning romance author and Bay Area native R.L. “Ro” Merrill is a recovering public school educator who was raised on a steady diet of eclectic music and campy horror. She writes queer and straight quirky and relatable characters that know how to use their words. You can find her wrangling rescue dogs and cats or headbanging at a rock show.Work It: A 6- Week Coaching Intensive for Authors Information, Wait List Sign Up, testimonials: https://www.jentheeditor.com/work-it Where to find JenWebsite: https://www.jentheeditor.com/All the socials: @jentheeditorSubscribe to Jen's newsletter for Author Marketing and Mental Health tipshttps://www.jentheeditor.com/subscribe

Author and illustrator Lin Lustig joins creativity coach Jen Graybeal to explore what it really means to live—and write—authentically as a creative. From blending art and fiction to building found-family pirate adventures and heartfelt queer fantasy, Lin shares how embracing her “delightful oddball” side became both her superpower and survival tool.This thoughtful, funny, and deeply honest conversation dives into the realities of indie authorship—the isolation, the self-doubt, the endless business advice that doesn’t always fit—and how to keep creating anyway. Lin opens up about turning creative burnout into joyful experimentation, connecting with readers through Patreon and Discord, and using storytelling as a tool for empathy and belonging.Whether you’re an author struggling to stay true to your voice, or a creative searching for your next spark, this episode will remind you that your weird, wonderful self is exactly what your stories—and readers—need.Website: https://www.linlustig.com/Where to find Lin: Discord, Patreon, newsletterBecca Syme: Better-Faster Academy with Becca SymeMoonrise Rocks: InstagramThe Craft clip: The Craft - We are the weirdosThe Mountain is You: Transforming Self-Sabotage Into Self-Mastery by Brianna Wiest: https://amzn.to/4ts0oJcA Memory Called Empire by Arkady Martine: https://amzn.to/4mPhRsE7-Figure Fiction: How to Use Universal Fantasy to SELL Your Books to ANYONE by T. Taylor: https://amzn.to/4vEcqk8 BIO:Lin Lustig believes the world needs more delightful oddballs and writes romantic adventures with fun illustrations to prove unconventional thinking and kindness are superpowers. Her stories have deep emotional dichotomies from dramatic queer fantasy to lighthearted adventures centered on LGBTQ+ found family and grumpy-sunshine dynamics. Because everyone deserves laughter and belonging. After earning a degree in film production and fangirling over everything from Sailor Moon to Superwholock, she approaches each story with relentless creative experimentation. Step into her stories where being authentically weird and kindhearted is exactly what the world needs.Work It: A 6- Week Coaching Intensive for Authors Information, Wait List Sign Up, testimonials: https://www.jentheeditor.com/work-it Where to find JenWebsite: https://www.jentheeditor.com/All the socials: @jentheeditorSubscribe to Jen's newsletter for Author Marketing and Mental Health tipshttps://www.jentheeditor.com/subscribe

Award‑winning author and intellectual property attorney Lisa Rayne joins host Jen Graybeal to deliver a masterclass in writing, business, and author empowerment. Lisa pulls back the curtain on what every writer needs to know about contracts, grants of rights, and copyrights—including the pitfalls many authors miss until it’s too late.She shares her journey from corporate law to award-winning romance novelist, why she’s passionate about helping creatives become savvy entrepreneurs, and how to write stories that truly bring you joy.We dive into Lisa’s novels, from her groundbreaking Never Cross a Highlander—the first romance to feature a Black Highlander hero—to Ice Matched, her upcoming contemporary sports romance set in the world of Olympic ice dancing. Lisa brings bold, Black characters to life across genres, proving that following your creative passion can be both joyful and powerful.Whether you’re indie, hybrid, or traditionally published, this conversation will help you reframe your mindset, understand your rights, and level up your business game as an author—without losing the creative spark that started it all.Key Topics:Understanding your grant of rights and what you may be giving upWhy copyright registration matters more than you thinkHow to approach contracts like a confident professionalBalancing creativity with smart, strategic thinkingFinding joy in the writing life while protecting your business interestsLisa’s coaching platform SCRIBAL, created to help authors level up their entrepreneurshipWhere to find Lisa RayneWebsite: lisarayne.comSCRIBAL Book Business Institute: skool.com/scribal/aboutIce Matched Pre-Order: lisarayne.com/icematched/  Never Cross a Highlander: lisarayne.com/highlanders/Lisa Rayne’s Romance Readers Community: skool.com/lisarayne/aboutNewslettersFor Readers: lisarayne.com/getnewsletterFor Authors: lisarayne.com/forauthors  Social mediaInstagram: instagram.com/authorrayne Threads: threads.net/@authorrayne TikTok: tiktok.com/@authorrayne YouTube: youtube.com/@authorlisarayne MentionedRSJ Convention: rsjconvention.com/Starboy Fitness on TikTok: tiktok.com/@starboysobersfitnessBeverly Jenkins: beverlyjenkins.net/Elle Kennedy: ellekennedy.com/Jaci Burton: jaciburton.com/The Gap and the Gain by Dan Sullivan and Dr. Benjamin Hardy: https://amzn.to/4tFZxo2Clifton Strengths: https://bit.ly/3rb6P5bDebbie Allen Signature Barbie: creations.mattel.com/products/barbie-tribute-collection-debbie-allen-doll-jbj24Under the Cover, Kansas City: underthecoverkc.com/Thirst Books, Milwaukee: thirstbooks.com/Heartbound Book Shop, Anaheim: heartboundbookshop.com/Shelf Love DSM, Des Moines: shelflovedsm.com/ Work It: A 6- Week Coaching Intensive for Authors Information, Wait List Sign Up, testimonials: https://www.jentheeditor.com/work-it Where to find JenWebsite: https://www.jentheeditor.com/All the socials: @jentheeditorSubscribe to Jen's newsletter for Author Marketing and Mental Health tipshttps://www.jentheeditor.com/subscribe

How do you make email marketing work for your author business—not against it? In this episode, creativity coach Jen Graybeal talks with Y. M. Nelson, author of The Accidental Swipe and host of the Nerdy Romantics podcast. Together, they dive deep into building a sustainable writing career—we talk about knowing who you are and what you want, and how that translates to better newsletters and marketing as an indie author.Y.M. shares her journey from writing tech manuals to publishing spicy, nerdy romance and romantic women’s fiction that celebrates emotional growth and representation. She opens up about the free learning available from webinars and critique partners, and deciding when to invest in coaching or paid tools.Jen and Y.M. also unpack practical business strategies for authors:Building an engaged email list and improving click ratesChoosing marketing tools that fit your stage of growthNavigating the “in‑between” years—when you’ve outgrown the beginner stage but aren’t yet full‑time Where to find Y. M. NelsonWebsite: ymnelson.comNewsletter Subscription: ymnelson.com/subscribe@authorymnelson on BlueSky, Threads, Instagram, YouTube, and Pinterest@ymnelsonauthor on FacebookY.M. Nelson books on Bookshop.org: Bookshop.org USShe is currently writing The On Purpose Wedding, book 3 in the Accidental Lovers trilogy The Nerdy Romantics PodcastThe Nerdy Romantics Podcast: Nerdyromanticspodcast.com @nerdyromanticspodcast on YouTubeNerdyRomantics Podcast is everywhere you get podcasts  Links for everything we discussedMailChimp: Email & SMS Marketing Platform | MailchimpMailerLite: https://www.mailerlite.com/ Save the Cat Writes a Novel by Jessica Brody: https://amzn.to/4bPfGBn Save the Cat by Blake Snyder: https://amzn.to/4drYcfK Story Engineering: Mastering the Six Core Competencies of Successful Writing by Larry Brooks: https://amzn.to/47GiBKb Story Genius by Lisa Cron: https://amzn.to/4verftI The Joy of Writing Sex: A Guide for Fiction Authors by Elizabeth Benedict: https://amzn.to/4drYjba Cheris Hodges: About – Cheris HodgesHoopla: hoopladigital.com/homeY.M. Nelson on Bookshop.org: Bookshop.org US20 Books to 50k Facebook Group: 20BooksTo50K® | FacebookThe Rules of a Rebound by Julie Carver: https://amzn.to/4cje3vX Work It: A 6- Week Coaching Intensive for Authors Information, Wait List Sign Up, testimonials: https://www.jentheeditor.com/work-it Where to find JenWebsite: https://www.jentheeditor.com/All the socials: @jentheeditorSubscribe to Jen's newsletter for Author Marketing and Mental Health tipshttps://www.jentheeditor.com/subscribe

What does it take to keep writing — and thriving — across decades of publishing? Host Jen Graybeal sits down with Loucinda McGary, romantic‑suspense author and creative globe‑trotter, to talk about writing gothic‑tinged love stories, finding community, and treating your author career like a business.Loucinda shares how she went from a government job to full‑time novelist, the power of supporting writer groups and Zoom sprints, and the mindset shift that helped her pivot with data — turning self‑publishing strategy into a 55 percent revenue jump and record Kindle Unlimited reads.They also dive into creative recovery, imposter syndrome, and how crochet, travel, and “filling the well” keep Loucinda’s imagination flowing.Grab inspiration and practical insight for staying in the game — no matter where you are in your writing journey.Where to find Loucinda McGaryLoucinda’s website: https://www.loucindamcgaryauthor.com/Sign up for Loucinda’s newsletter: https://www.loucindamcgaryauthor.com/contact Loucinda’s Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/loucinda.mcgary/?fref=ts-         Loucinda’s Amazon Author Page: https://www.amazon.com/stores/Loucinda-McGary/author/B001JS706Y?ref=sr_ntt_srch_lnk_1&qid=1773715292&sr=8-1&shoppingPortalEnabled=true&ccs_id=a3df5f6a-ae60-4066-be52-d43cafc84776 Books we mentionedMackinac Island’s Little Lost Girl: https://amzn.to/4ceWrkPJewels of the Madonna, Wee Bit of Irish Series Book 1: https://amzn.to/4rZKSmbWee Bit of Irish Series: https://amzn.to/4lXdBXoOther resourcesNorCal Romance Writers: https://www.norcalromancewriters.com/Work It – A 6-Week Coaching Intensive: https://www.jentheeditor.com/work-itNicholas Erik: https://nicholaserik.com/Clip from When Harry Met Sally: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v='lNEX0fbGePgSacramento Book Festival, April 19, 2026: https://www.sacramentobookfestival.com/ About Loucinda McGaryLoucinda McGary has been a writer most of her life but finally got serious about it when she left her government career in September, 2003 for early retirement to write romantic suspense. She sold her first novel almost 4 years to the day later to a small publisher. At the end of 2011 she released her first self-published story and has gone on to Indie publish 15 other titles on Amazon.Loucinda's two great passions continue to be writing and travel. To date she has visited 47 states, 39 countries, and taken 51 cruises. She likes to set her stories of romance and suspense in some of the exotic locations she has visited. Her stories have placed and won several contests and awards including the Romance Writers of America Golden Heart contest, the Australian Romance Readers Awards, the Chesapeake Romance Writers 2021 Rudy contest, and the Kindle Book Review's Best Indie Book of 2012 and 2013.Work It: A 6- Week Coaching Intensive for Authors Information, Wait List Sign Up, testimonials: https://www.jentheeditor.com/work-it Where to find JenWebsite: https://www.jentheeditor.com/All the socials: @jentheeditorSubscribe to Jen's newsletter for Author Marketing and Mental Health tipshttps://www.jentheeditor.com/subscribe

What does it take to build a lasting career as a fiction author? In this episode, host Jen Graybeal sits down with Tobi Doyle—award-winning romance and cozy mystery author of over a dozen books.Tobi shares her journey from first putting words on the page in 2007 to publishing her upcoming cozy mystery series Pour Decisions. The conversation covers essential topics for authors at every stage:Craft development: How critique groups, writing retreats, and contest judging (like the Daphne du Maurier Awards) sharpen your storytelling skillsWriter community: Building connections through local groups, online networks, and virtual meetupsBook marketing for introverts: Honest talk about marketing discomfort, staying authentic on social media, and avoiding burnoutMindset advice: Why comparing yourself to other authors stalls your progress, and how to stay focused on your own pathThey also spotlight the IGW Genre Conference in Huntington, WV (with a virtual attendance option), its pitch workshops for querying authors, and Story Magic Cards—a teaching tool for understanding story structure and sparking creativity.Whether you're drafting your first novel, querying agents, or looking to sustain momentum in a long-term writing career, this episode offers grounded advice from authors who've been in the trenches.Tobi Doyle: https://tobidoyle.com/Pour Decisions by Tobi Doyle: https://amzn.to/4lGduznToo Sweet to Die by Tobi Doyle: https://amzn.to/3PysqDDIntensive Genre Workshops: https://askigw.com/GenreCon July 25-26, 2026: https://askigw.com/Story Magic Cards: https://storymagiccards.com/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AuthorTobiDoyle/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tobi.doyle/Substack: https://substack.com/@tobidoyleThe Widow File by S.G. Redling: https://amzn.to/4bDBzlRDaphne du Maurier Awards for Excellence in Mystery and Suspense: https://rwakissofdeath.org/kodcontest/Tor Publishing Group: https://torpublishinggroup.com/Henlo Press: https://www.thehenlopress.com/Rowan Prose Publishing: https://www.rowanprosepublishing.com/                            Murder Your Employer: The McMasters Guide to Homicide by Rupert Holmes: https://amzn.to/3NwUQgQ Rules of a Rebound by Julie Carver: https://amzn.to/4801dA6 Topics covered: author career advice, writing craft, critique partners, cozy mystery writing, romance writing, book marketing strategies, writing community, writer retreats, pitch workshops, querying agents, story structure tools, indie and traditional publishing mindsetWork It: A 6- Week Coaching Intensive for Authors Information, Wait List Sign Up, testimonials: https://www.jentheeditor.com/work-it Where to find JenWebsite: https://www.jentheeditor.com/All the socials: @jentheeditorSubscribe to Jen's newsletter for Author Marketing and Mental Health tipshttps://www.jentheeditor.com/subscribe

Author Kelly Farmer talks with Jen Graybeal about writing queer contemporary romance filled with snark, heart, and authentic connection. She shares her journey from early storytelling to publishing inclusive love stories that help readers feel seen.Kelly spotlights her Vector City Supers trilogy—a superhero romance series about found family, second chances, and chasing dreams—with Book 3 launching this month. She also dives into the craft of writing sapphic romance, building community through author collectives, and using improv’s “yes, and” creativity to stay inspired.Perfect for romance authors and writers seeking insight, motivation, and practical advice from an author who’s building joy one book at a time.LinksKelly Farmer’s website: https://www.kellyfarmerauthor.com/The Brightest Blaze, Vector City Supers Book 3: https://amzn.to/4scy7FQ Vector City Supers Series: https://amzn.to/4lyRfeGKelly’s Socials: @kellyfarmerauthor ·         Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kellyfarmerauthor/·         Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kellyfarmerauthor/·         Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/kellyfarmerauthor.bsky.socialAuthors, Organizations, and Books we mentionedAvery Flynn: https://averyflynn.com/R.L. Merrill: https://www.rlmerrillauthor.com/Shannon Schroeder/ Sloane Steele: https://shannynschroeder.com/about-shannyn/Rules of a Rebound by Julie Carver: https://amzn.to/3NeuUqeRomancing the Beats by Gwen Hayes: https://amzn.to/4rFwCPjHeated Rivalry Series by Rachel Reid: https://amzn.to/4uUZCFVChicago North Romance Writers: https://www.chicagonorthromancewriters.com/Chicago Spring Fling, April dates: https://www.chicagonorthromancewriters.com/spring-flingPWHL, Professional Women’s Hockey League: https://www.thepwhl.com/en/ About KellyKelly Farmer (she/her) has been writing romance novels since junior high. While the stories have changed, one theme remains the same: everyone deserves to have a happy ending. She is the bestselling author of queer contemporary romances with snarky humor and lots of heart.When not writing, she enjoys being outside in nature, quoting from eighties movies, listening to all kinds of music, and petting every dog she comes in contact with. All of these show up in her books. Kelly lives in the Chicago area, where she swears every winter is her last one there.To connect with Kelly, talk about current TV binges, and subscribe to her newsletter for access to free bonus stories, head over to www.kellyfarmerauthor.comWork It: A 6- Week Coaching Intensive for Authors Information, Wait List Sign Up, testimonials: https://www.jentheeditor.com/work-it Where to find JenWebsite: https://www.jentheeditor.com/All the socials: @jentheeditorSubscribe to Jen's newsletter for Author Marketing and Mental Health tipshttps://www.jentheeditor.com/subscribe

This is the Book's Business and Mindset podcast where we talk about creating stories you love and building a career that works for you. This season, I'm sitting down with some incredible authors for honest conversations about what it takes to thrive.We talk about managing creative anxiety and staying motivated when the words just aren't flowing. You'll get smart, honest marketing advice that connects you with readers. Without burning you out. We'll learn how to celebrate accomplishments, even the small ones, and build confidence while chasing your writing dreams.There's no hype, no hustle culture. Just real talk and strategies that work.Hit follow on the Books Business and Mindset Podcast on your favorite app, and visit my website jentheeditor.com for free resources coaching information, conferences and workshops.Work It: A 6- Week Coaching Intensive for Authors Information, Wait List Sign Up, testimonials: https://www.jentheeditor.com/work-it Where to find JenWebsite: https://www.jentheeditor.com/All the socials: @jentheeditorSubscribe to Jen's newsletter for Author Marketing and Mental Health tipshttps://www.jentheeditor.com/subscribe

In this episode of the Books, Business, and Mindset Podcast, certified creativity coach Jen Graybeal delves into effective marketing strategies for authors. Focusing on the four Ps—Product, Price, Place, and Promotion—Jen highlights the importance of distinguishing between strategies and tactics. The discussion includes practical tips on diversifying product offerings, setting appropriate pricing, choosing the best sales platforms, and utilizing effective promotional tactics. Listeners also get insights on the significance of newsletters, social media, and events in building a strong marketing plan. 00:00 Introduction to the Podcast00:23 Understanding Marketing Strategy vs. Tactics03:38 The Four Ps of Marketing04:56 Product: More Than Just Books09:40 Place: Where to Sell Your Books14:01 Price: Setting the Right Value17:03 Promotion: Connecting with Readers38:45 Final Thoughts and ConclusionWork It: A 6- Week Coaching Intensive for Authors Information, Wait List Sign Up, testimonials: https://www.jentheeditor.com/work-it Where to find JenWebsite: https://www.jentheeditor.com/All the socials: @jentheeditorSubscribe to Jen's newsletter for Author Marketing and Mental Health tipshttps://www.jentheeditor.com/subscribe

In this episode of the Books Business and Mindset Podcast, hosted by creativity coach Jen Graybeal, the focus is on the importance of building three distinct teams crucial for any author's success. Jen emphasizes the collaborative nature of the writing process, debunking the myth of the solitary author. She details the need for support during story development, including sprint groups and critique groups. The discussion extends to the publishing team, covering editors, cover designers, and distribution strategies. Jen also highlights the essential role of a marketing team, offering tips on developing a marketing alliance. The episode is rich with practical advice for authors at all stages of their careers.00:00 Welcome to the Books Business and Mindset Podcast00:26 The Three Essential Teams for Authors01:33 Building Your Writing Team03:56 The Importance of Critique Groups and Beta Readers09:56 Assembling Your Publishing Team13:14 Marketing Strategies for Authors19:29 Influencer Marketing and Media Kits30:57 Conclusion and Final ThoughtsMentioned in the episodeThe Ultimate Guide to Book Marketing by Nicholas ErikWork It: A 6- Week Coaching Intensive for Authors Information, Wait List Sign Up, testimonials: https://www.jentheeditor.com/work-it Where to find JenWebsite: https://www.jentheeditor.com/All the socials: @jentheeditorSubscribe to Jen's newsletter for Author Marketing and Mental Health tipshttps://www.jentheeditor.com/subscribe

In this episode of the Books Business and Mindset Podcast, host Jen Graybeal, a certified creativity coach, discusses effective planning strategies for authors. Jen continues from episode six, emphasizing the need for a comprehensive brain dump to organize and manage tasks. She advocates for personalizing the planning process and using action-oriented language to enhance productivity. The episode introduces a six-step planning system designed to provide clarity and confidence. The discussion also highlights the importance of regular review and self-trust in achieving long-term success.00:00 Introduction and Welcome00:23 Recap of Previous Episode01:11 Step-by-Step Planning Process03:15 Organizing Your Tasks06:45 Using Action-Oriented Language13:16 Final Steps and Review23:52 Conclusion and FarewellWork It: A 6- Week Coaching Intensive for Authors Information, Wait List Sign Up, testimonials: https://www.jentheeditor.com/work-it Where to find JenWebsite: https://www.jentheeditor.com/All the socials: @jentheeditorSubscribe to Jen's newsletter for Author Marketing and Mental Health tipshttps://www.jentheeditor.com/subscribe

In this episode of the Books, Business, and Mindset Podcast, Jen Graybeal, a certified creativity coach, delves into planning and goal setting for authors. She discusses her unique approach to planning that eschews traditional methods like SMART goals and strict schedules, emphasizing flexibility and a personalized system that works for her. Jen introduces her six-step planning system which includes capturing tasks, organizing them, and regularly reviewing progress to reduce anxiety and increase clarity. She touches on the neuroscience behind productivity and offers actionable steps for authors to stay focused and confident in their business and creative pursuits. 00:00 Introduction to the Podcast00:23 The Importance of Planning and Goal Setting01:31 Jen's Unique Approach to Goal Setting04:05 The Neuroscience Behind Productivity07:15 Introducing Jen's Six-Step Planning System09:48 Step-by-Step Breakdown of the Planning System16:55 Final Thoughts and Homework28:31 Conclusion and How to ConnectWork It: A 6- Week Coaching Intensive for Authors Information, Wait List Sign Up, testimonials: https://www.jentheeditor.com/work-it Where to find JenWebsite: https://www.jentheeditor.com/All the socials: @jentheeditorSubscribe to Jen's newsletter for Author Marketing and Mental Health tipshttps://www.jentheeditor.com/subscribe

In this episode of the Books, Business, and Mindset Podcast, hosted by certified creativity coach Jen Graybeal, listeners learn about the impact of negative self-talk and how it affects creativity and productivity. Jen explains how the brain's repetition of negative thoughts leads to deeply ingrained beliefs, resulting in struggles with self-doubt and imposter syndrome. She emphasizes the importance of positive self-talk, neuroplasticity, and mindfulness in overcoming these challenges. Jen provides practical steps for improving self-talk, normalizing mistakes, and building a supportive community.00:00 Introduction to the Podcast00:23 The Power of Self-Talk02:12 The Science Behind Negative Self-Talk06:57 Rewiring Your Brain with Positive Self-Talk08:02 Overcoming Discomfort and Embracing Growth09:34 Practical Tips for Positive Self-Talk16:15 Conquering Imposter Syndrome19:11 Concrete Steps to Improve Self-TalkMentioned in the podcast:The Widow File by S. G. RedlingFlowertown by S. G. RedlingPour Decisions by Tobi Doyle Work It: A 6- Week Coaching Intensive for Authors Information, Wait List Sign Up, testimonials: https://www.jentheeditor.com/work-it Where to find JenWebsite: https://www.jentheeditor.com/All the socials: @jentheeditorSubscribe to Jen's newsletter for Author Marketing and Mental Health tipshttps://www.jentheeditor.com/subscribe

Understanding the Role of Editors in the Publishing ProcessIn this episode of the Books, Business, and Mindset Podcast, certified creativity coach Jen Graybeal delves into the crucial role that editors play in the publishing process. Jen explains the different types of editors, including developmental, line, copy, and proofreaders, and their specific functions throughout the stages of writing and publishing. She discusses the differences between traditional and self-publishing, providing insights on how to build an effective publishing team tailored to your needs. Jen also shares her personal journey to becoming an editor and offers advice for new authors on finding the right editor, the importance of having supportive relationships with editors, and the significance of editor feedback. Additionally, the episode highlights the value of beta readers and ARC readers in the revision process. 00:00 Introduction to the Podcast00:23 Understanding the Role of Editors02:56 Jen's Journey to Becoming an Editor13:04 The Editing Process Explained26:27 Finding the Right Editor for Your Book34:12 Conclusion and Final Thoughts Work It: A 6- Week Coaching Intensive for Authors Information, Wait List Sign Up, testimonials: https://www.jentheeditor.com/work-it Where to find JenWebsite: https://www.jentheeditor.com/All the socials: @jentheeditorSubscribe to Jen's newsletter for Author Marketing and Mental Health tipshttps://www.jentheeditor.com/subscribe

Creating Effective Change Strategies for AuthorsIn this episode of the Books, Business, and Mindset Podcast, host Jen Graybeal, a certified creativity coach, delves into the importance of creating a change strategy for authors. Jen offers detailed insights on strategic thinking, including key steps for forming a change framework. She highlights three critical questions to guide authors in their goals, and introduces the three E's (Experiment, Evaluate, Evolve) to navigate their journey. The episode also features a practical breathing exercise for managing frustration and stress. Listeners are encouraged to focus on their personal goals and to stay flexible, accepting that evolution is part of the journey.00:00 Introduction to the Podcast00:23 The Importance of a Change Strategy03:12 Questions to Guide Your Change Strategy08:06 Client Testimonials and Program Details10:47 The Three E's Framework17:58 Breathing Exercise and Final Thoughts20:33 Conclusion and Contact InformationMapping a Change Strategy Mini-Workbook - Download this FREE resource: https://www.jentheeditor.com/resourcesWork It: A 6- Week Coaching Intensive for Authors Information, registration, testimonials: https://www.jentheeditor.com/work-it Work It: A 6- Week Coaching Intensive for Authors Information, Wait List Sign Up, testimonials: https://www.jentheeditor.com/work-it Where to find JenWebsite: https://www.jentheeditor.com/All the socials: @jentheeditorSubscribe to Jen's newsletter for Author Marketing and Mental Health tipshttps://www.jentheeditor.com/subscribe

In this episode of the Books, Business, and Mindset podcast, certified creativity coach Jen Graybeal delves into the intricacies of developmental editing. She outlines the different phases of editing—developmental, line editing, copy editing, and proofreading—and emphasizes the importance of investing in a good developmental editor. Jen provides a comprehensive checklist for evaluating stories, discusses the process of diagnosing and solving story issues, and shares strategies for maintaining focus and creativity during the editing process. She also offers practical advice for troubleshooting plot and character development, ensuring emotional engagement, and brainstorming effectively. Whether you're a seasoned author or just starting, this episode is packed with actionable insights to help you refine your manuscript and elevate your storytelling. 00:00 Introduction to the Podcast00:24 Understanding Developmental Editing03:33 The Four Phases of Editing05:38 Focusing on Developmental Editing07:39 Mindset and Preparation for Editing12:58 Plot and Structure Insights22:44 Character Development and Arc28:58 Troubleshooting and Brainstorming Techniques36:16 Conclusion and Final ThoughtsTranscript: https://www.jentheeditor.com/s/Ep-02-DIY-Developmental-Editing-Transcript.pdf Work It: A 6- Week Coaching Intensive for Authors Information, Wait List Sign Up, testimonials: https://www.jentheeditor.com/work-it Where to find JenWebsite: https://www.jentheeditor.com/All the socials: @jentheeditorSubscribe to Jen's newsletter for Author Marketing and Mental Health tipshttps://www.jentheeditor.com/subscribe

How Neuroscience and Creativity Intersect to Solve Story IssuesIn this episode, Jen explores the roots of story problems and how external factors like life stressors can impact the creative process. She discusses how various neurochemicals affect motivation and frustration. Through practical advice for overcoming writer's block, this episode encourages writers to reframe negative thoughts and builds on the importance of both mental rest and productive problem-solving techniques.00:00 Introduction to the Podcast00:23 Understanding Story Problems Through Neuroscience03:02 The Creative Process and Emotional Challenges10:25 Building and Maintaining Creative Muscles13:33 Practical Tips for Overcoming Creative Blocks18:06 Filling the Creative Well25:48 The Importance of Rest and Reflection26:51 Conclusion and Contact InformationLinks to stuff Jen talked about...Tobi Doyle: https://tobidoyle.com/Pre-Order Pour Decisions by Tobi Doyle: https://amzn.to/40LjRblThe Rules of a Rebound by Julie Carver: https://amzn.to/46ub7KsFilling the Well Workbook: https://www.jentheeditor.com/s/Filling-the-Well-a-workbook-for-creative-professionals.pdf Transcript: https://www.jentheeditor.com/s/Ep-01-Facing-our-Story-Issues-Transcript.pdf Work It: A 6- Week Coaching Intensive for Authors Information, Wait List Sign Up, testimonials: https://www.jentheeditor.com/work-it Where to find JenWebsite: https://www.jentheeditor.com/All the socials: @jentheeditorSubscribe to Jen's newsletter for Author Marketing and Mental Health tipshttps://www.jentheeditor.com/subscribe