PODCAST · arts
The Wannabe Author
by Taryn Christeen
Ever wonder what it really takes to go from zero to published? Join me, Taryn, as I navigate the messy, exhilarating and often frustrating journey of becoming an author— without any prior experience. Each episode dives into books, breaks down the craft of writing, explores mental health, and shares valuable lessons I’ve learned through trial and (so much) error. With interviews featuring authors, mental health professionals, and readers, The Wannabe Author offers fresh, unfiltered look at the world of storytelling and publishing. Tune in— it’s a damn good time!
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39
Conversation w/ Alissa DeRogatis
To wrap up season three we are lucky to once again hear from best selling author Alissa DeRogatis. In our first episode together, Alissa and I talked about her debut indie novel Call It What You Want and the journey she had getting into the traditional industry with it. Today we talk on her upcoming release How To Find Love In The Cereal Aisle and the differences in her journey between her debut and sophomore novels.Alissa’s current read: Too Blessed To Stress by Ali Hoff KosikWhere you can find more of Alissa:Website: https://www.alissaderogatis.com/booksPre order HTFLITCA: https://www.sourcebooks.com/9781464223396-how-to-find-love-in-the-cereal-aisle-tp.html
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Conversation w/ Lexie Axon
This week’s episode, I sit down with debut author to talk about the upcoming release of her novel, Viper and Lillies. A Bridgerton meets romantasy novel I know will take the world by storm when it releases February 2027.Lexie Axon, author of Viper and Lillies walks us through her path to publication, the highs the lows and her unique perspective of the journey who has spent years working on the other side in publishing. This episode was truly something special and I cannot wait for y'all to listen!Lexie’s current read: A Study In Drowning by Ava ReidWhere you can find more of Lexie:PREORDER Viper & Lillies: https://www.hachettebookgroup.com/titles/lexie-axon/viper-lilies/9781538778241/Website: https://www.lexieaxon.com/viperandliliesInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/lexieaxon/
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37
Conversation w/ Lauren Khan
This is one of my favorite episodes to date. Today we get to hear from author, agent and podcasting co-host, Lauren Khan. In this episode, Lauren shares her journey from an attorney to author and how that led to her also taking up the mantle of agent at Fine Print Literary. It was such an honor to sit with Lauren and learn about her. I can’t wait for you to listen.Lauren’s current read: This Story Might Save Your Life by Tiffany CrumWhere you can find more of Lauren:Website: https://www.laurenjpkhan.comMSWL: https://mswishlist.com/agent/LaurenKhanInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/laurenjpkhan/Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-prose-pros/id1835741861
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Conversation w/ Alyssa K Burns
Today’s episode we are lucky to hear from debut author, Alyssa K Burns, in celebration of her new release, The Last Special Thing. Today we speak on Alyssa’s indie author journey, the highs, the lows and everything in between. Alyssa is an example of resilience and devotion to getting your craft out into the world and we are lucky to learn from her experience.Alyssa’s current read:The Right Words by Meg RosenthalWhere you can find more of Alyssa:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/alyssakburns/Website: https://www.alyssakburns.comBook: https://www.alyssakburns.com/books
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35
Conversation w/ Liana Cincotti
In this return episode of The Wannabe Author, we are privileged to hear from indie to trad published author, Liana Cincotti. This author was generous in sharing her publishing journey. I learned so much valuable publishing and writing insight from this conversation and I know you will too.Liana’s current read:And Now Back To You by BK BorisonWhere you can find more of Liana:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lianacincotti/?hl=enWebsite: https://withliana.com/my-books/Pre-order A Summer of Stars: https://www.hachettebookgroup.com/titles/liana-cincotti/a-summer-of-stars/9781538779279/
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Connecting w/ Taryn Christeen
Welcome to the final episode of season two, from your favorite little wannabe author.Taryn’s current read/obsession:Dark Age by Pierce Brown2025 Netflix adaptation of Frankenstein Where you can find more of Taryn:Website: https://linktr.ee/tarynchristeen
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Connecting w/ Mary + Anne
For the first time on The Wannabe Author, not only did we have the privilege from learning from one guest author, but two. Authors Mary Dublin and Anne Kendsley joined me for a great conversation to talk about the ins and outs of a dual authorship. Best known for their Supernatural meets Fern Gully, (Shot In The Dark Series) Mary and Anne explain how their love for telling stories brought them together, how they were led to self-publish and their individual skill sets that benefit their author careers. It was such an intriguing conversation and I can’t wait for y’all to get to know these authors.Mary’s current read:Bitter Burn by Sierra SimoneAnne’s current reads:A Conjuring of Light by VE SchwabWhy Fish Don’t Exist by Lulu MillerThe Invocations by Krystal SutherlandWhere you can find more of Mary and Anne:Website: https://authorsdublinkendsley.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/authors.dublin.kendsley/
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The Architecture of Story w/ Meg Rosenthal
Today on The Wannabe Author we were FED!!! In today's collaborative episode, I had the fabulous opportunity of introducing author, editor and now podcaster, Meg Rosenthal.In the episode, Meg introduces her new podcast, The Architecture of Story by breaking down The Heroes Journey. This episode is chuck full of information, story insights and exciting looksee into what you can look forward to when The Architecture of Story releases Nov. 3rd.So proud of you, Meg!!Where to find more of Meg:Website: https://megrosenthal.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/megrosenthalauthor/?hl=enThe Hero’s Journey video: https://youtu.be/Hhk4N9A0oCA?si=MmE5OT_8b9gjwfG8
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Connecting w/ Charla Ayers
Today’s episode, we are privileged to hear and learn from author and editor, Charla Ayers. This episode we dive into Charla’s journey in celebration of her recently released novel, Shrike. We get to hear about her process, how skills as an editor bleeds into her own writing and her insight on the industry. This was such a fantastic conversation and I know you will learn so much from Charla. Happy listening!Charla’s current read: The Knight and The Moth by Rachel GilligWhere you can find more of Charla:Website: https://charlaayers.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/charlaayers/?hl=en
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Connecting w/ Charlotte Balogh
In this episode we are honored to learn and hear from screenwriter and author Charlotte Lillie Balogh. Charlotte’s journey to publication was such a unique and inspiring experience. From starting in television writing where the idea for Kill The Lax Bro originally started as a TV pilot to it being picked up by her editor to be turned into her debut YA novel. Charlotte was such a joy to talk to as she really dove into her journey, the people that stood by her and the odds she beat. I can’t wait for y’all to learn from Charlotte the way I was so lucky to. Happy listening!Charlotte’s current read:A Cruel Thirst by Angela MontoyaWhere you can find more of Charlotte:Website: https://www.charlottelillie.com/aboutInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/charlottelilliebalogh/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@charlottelilliebalogh?is_from_webapp=1&sender_device=pc
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Connecting w/ Logan Karlie
Today on The Wannabe Author, we were BLESSED to listen to NYT bestselling author, Logan Karlie. I’ve had the pleasure of getting to know Logan over the last year and what a gem she is. Originally, Logan self-published her debut, Dream By The Shadows, in September of 2023 then re-released traditionally in Aug 2025. This gorgeous, gothic fantasy quickly made its way onto the NYT bestsellers list and we get a little glimpse into the rollercoaster journey Logan went through to get this book to where it is now.So excited for y’all to listen and be inspired by this incredible author! Happy listening! Logan’s current reads:Starchaser by R.M GrayThe Wicked Sea by Jordan Stephanie GrayImmortal Consequences by I.V MarieWhere you can find more of Logan:Website: https://www.logankarlie.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/authorlogankarlie/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@authorlogankarlie?is_from_webapp=1&sender_device=pc
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Connecting w/ Alexandra D’Amico
Here on The Wannabe Author we have been privileged to hear from a wide range of guests, spanning from indie/trad authors, debuts to industry veterans and bestsellers. But today’s episode is special because for the first time on the podcast we get to hear from a literary agent. I was connected with Alex through one of her clients first. After many praises and kind words this client shared with me about Alex, I knew I needed to get her on the pod and I am so glad I did. Alex offered fabulous insight regarding the perspective of the agent, advice for querying authors and words of encouragement. I am so excited for y’all to listen to this episode and fall in love with Alex the way I did. Happy listening!Alex’s current read:Shrike by Charla Ayers Where you can find more of Alex:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/alexmico/?hl=enRights Factory Agency: https://www.therightsfactory.com/Agents/alexandra-d'amico
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27
Connecting w/ Sara Phoebe Miller
Today we are privileged to learn from author and editor, Sara Phoebe Miller. I can’t correctly put into words the the insight I gathered from listening to Sara explain her journey to working in editing at DC Comics for 13 years, then now as the Editorial Director of BOOM! Studios and how it influenced her journey to publishing her debut graphic novel, You Belong Here. Sara is not only a wealth of knowledge but an incredible inspiration for chasing down a dream. Her journey was a roller coaster but her resolve to get her novel out there was steady and it was an honor to have her share it here on The Wannabe Author. I can’t wait for you to listen and get to know Sara the way I got to. Happy listening!Sara’s current read:Coffeeshop in an Alternate Universe by CB LeeWhere you can find more of Sara:Website: https://www.saraphoebemiller.com (https://www.saraphoebemiller.com)Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/saraphoebee/ (https://www.instagram.com/saraphoebee/)
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Connecting w/ Jayda Martin
In today’s episode we are privileged to hear from aspiring author and marketing specialist, Jayda Martin. When it comes to publishing and writing there is always the topic of social media that boggles brains and leaves a few of us wondering “how?” I connected with Jayda through social media a while back and have been taught to much when it comes to a personal brand, networking without fear, and taking advantage of every opportunity. This episode was phenomenally insightful and I can’t wait for you to listen.Jayda’s current read:Onyx Storm by Rebecca YarrosMidnight Sun by Stephenie MeyerWhere you can find more of Jayda:TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@itsjaydamartin?_t=ZP-8zFfwFVV9ep&_r=1Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/itsjaydamartin?igsh=MXFnM3UwdGdtYWFxaQ==More: https://stan.store/itsjaydamartin?fbclid=PAZnRzaAMdDfRleHRuA2FlbQIxMQABp7HoC78EvyhxWcnd8hX0uhTgrvMPJ8PnaSnJ41SWrJdE9XInVQ0NiN-L3Ytr_aem_hyMkeaevXN-oTTVrF7qB_g
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Connecting w/ Hollie Nelson
Today on the Wannabe Author, we had the privilege of hearing from debut author Hollie Nelson. In this conversation we get to hear Hollie’s journey to publication, the highs, the lows and her insight she’s gained. I was inspired from her thoughts and experiences and I know you will be too. Hollie’s current read:Dungeon Crawler Carl series by Matt DinnimanGlow by Raven KennedyWhere you can find more of Hollie:Website: https://www.thehollienelson.com/?fbclid=PAQ0xDSwMTBhBleHRuA2FlbQIxMQABp3S10r2l3PQks6Go4bkRmpXYX8OHkNEk1dMdGZEd8sQ5E0QNskdxSoD6wn77_aem_vv5OxaF3KhF_xIFPN3lOjwInstagram: @ thehollienelsonTikTok: @ thehollienelson
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Connecting w/ Alexandra Kennington
Welcome to season two of the Wannabe Author. In today’s episode, I had the honor of sitting with debut author Alexandra Kennington about her journey to getting her fun and exhilarating romantasy, Blood Beneath The Snow, into the hands of readers. Her journey, the advice she offers and the experiences she shares were incredible to hear. I believe this is a fabulous episode every wannabe author needs to hear.Alex’s current read:Fiasco by Constance FayWhere you can find more of Alex:WebsiteInstagramTikTok
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The Journey Finale w/ Taryn Christeen
Hey, Hi. It’s me. Your favorite little wannabe author. Today’s episode I interview myself. I give ya’ll the skinny on what my publishing journey has been like. I talk about my upcoming book release and my plans for the podcast and all the things. Thank you all for being here and I can’t wait for what the future holds.Current Read:Bury Our Bones In The Midnight Soil by VE SchwabFollow me:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/taryn.christeen/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@tarynchristeen?is_from_webapp=1&sender_device=pcYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thewannabeauthor
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22
Book Lovers Take The Mic w/ Drew Alyson
Today’s guest was absolutely fabulous to chat with. While we get an inside scoop of bookish creator, Drew Alyson, we also get a peek behind the curtain of The Bookish Shop in Gilbert, AZ. In this conversation we discuss the importance of prioritizing indie, diverse and less known authors. We also talk about community and the collaboration of artists, authors and sellers. It was a fantastic discussion that I can’t wait for y’all to listen to.Drew’s current read:Savor It by Tarah DewittWhere you can find more of Drew and The Bookish Shop:Drew’s InstagramDrew’s TikTokThe Bookish Shop websiteThe Bookish Shop Instagram
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21
Write It All Down w/ Peyton June
Today’s episode was a treat because I got to chat with debut author, Peyton June. Peyton’s debut YA Horror novel releases June 17, 2025. With the release of her book so close it was so much fun being able to get a BTS of what the journey has been like for her. Though every journey, including Peyton’s is full of grueling work, dedication and determination Peyton’s had a lot of positive things to say about her experience. It was intriguing to hear her thoughts, her advice and what she has planned. I can’t wait for this fabulous release and for ya’ll to listen to this episode. It’s a good one!Taryn’s current read:Thrum by Meg SmithermanPeyton’s current read:When The Bones Sing by Ginny Myers SainWhere you can find more of Peyton:Website: https://peyjune.com/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@haunted.prairie.house?is_from_webapp=1&sender_device=pcInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/peyjune/
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20
The Joyful Journey w/ Annabelle Slator
This episode is one I have been looking forward to sharing with y’all. Today, I am joined by Annabelle Slator. She is the author of The Launch Date, her debut romcom about two rival coworkers forced to work together on a brand new dating app in hopes of winning a promotion.Throughout the recording of this episode I constantly found myself cackling with laughter, contemplating my own journey and taking notes of the insight Annabelle had to share. This episode was one I will forever cherish and look back on. I can’t wait for y’all to listen and for you to fall in love Annabelle. Happy listening!Annabelle’s current reads:Quarter-Love Crisis by Jasmine BurkeGreat Big Beautiful Life by Emily HenryWhere you can find more of Annabelle:Website: https://annabelleslatorbooks.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/annabelleslator/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@annabelleslator?is_from_webapp=1&sender_device=pc
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Ghostwriter To Debut Author w/ Veronica Bane
Today’s episode was incredibly special for many reasons, the main one being our guest, of course. In this episode I was beyond privileged to sit and get to know ghostwriter and debut author, Veronica Bane. This author is truly inspirational from her story of failure, success, her resilience to keep writing despite the obstacles life chucked at her and overcoming her feelings of inadequacy. Veronica Bane’s story taught me so much and I know that it will offer you immense insight as well.Taryn’s current read: Storyteller by Jodi PicoultVeronica’s current read:Bloodmarked by Tracy Deonn Where you can find more of Veronica:Website: https://www.veronicabane.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/veronicabane/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@veronicabane?is_from_webapp=1&sender_device=pc
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The Heart And The Story w/ Penn Cole
Today's episode I am joined by New York Times and USA Today's bestselling author, Penn Cole. This episode was truly special to film because not only am I obviously a huge fan of Penn's Kindred's Curse Saga but I have spent a lot of my time listening to interviews Penn has given on her journey to where she is today. In this episode I continued to learn and be inspired by Penn's resilience, her heart for the life of an author and I know that you will too.Taryn's current read:Storyteller by Jodi PicoultPenn's current read:Blood Of Hercules by Jasmine ManWhere you can find more of Penn:Website: https://www.penncole.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/AuthorPennCole/Threads: https://www.threads.com/@authorpenncole TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@authorpenncole?is_from_webapp=1&sender_device=pc
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The Journey, The Job And The Joy w/ Meg Rosenthal
Today’s episode I get to sit and chat with author, Meg Rosenthal. This author is celebrating the most recent release of her second novel, The Wingman. Meg is a contemporary romance author that has put years of effort into bettering her craft. Through the episode, we learn about the support she received from other authors and mentors, how she found her way to a hybrid publisher that has now published both her debut and sophomore novels and we get a peek into Meg’s writing routine with such a busy life outside of writing. Meg is a darling individual and I cannot wait for you to listen, learn and get to know her the way I was so lucky to.Taryn’s current read:Wild and Wrangled by Lyla SageStoryteller by Jodi PicoultMeg’s current read:Twisted Souls by Shannon McLellanWhere you can find Meg:Website: https://megrosenthal.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/megrosenthalauthor/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@megrosenthal.author?is_from_webapp=1&sender_device=pc
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From Self-Pub To Trad w/ Sydney Applegate
This episode was truly special to film. Sydney is one of the most genuinely inspiring authors I have had the privilege of meeting and learning from yet. Her passion for writing, her eagerness to succeed and her faith had such a profound influence on me. Sydney is a self-published author of the Deragon Duology and has recently signed with an agent to take one of her new projects on submission to publishing houses. Her story in finding an agent, the advice she offers and positive perspective is one you won't want to miss.Current Reads:Taryn's: The New York Charm by Riley WintersSydney's: Out On A Limb by Hannah Bonam-YoungWhere you can find Sydney:YouTube: @BooksBySydney (https://studio.youtube.com/channel/UCep4GrnXpEGcRxtVpxQnu4Q) Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/authorsydneyapplegate/?hl=enTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@authorsydneyapplegate?is_from_webapp=1&sender_device=pcWebsite: https://www.sydneyapplegate.com
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Book Lovers Take The Mic w/ Lindsey
I was so lucky to sit down with reader influencer, Lindsey, to talk about books. This was a fun, chaotic, giggly episode that was too good of a time to record. Lindsey has some incredible insights for authors looking to hook readers like her. We discuss her Icks (🐰), her loves, what catches her attention and what she hopes to see more of in upcoming novels. Lindsey is a bright, kind soul in the bookish community, one I am very thankful to have gotten to know!Current reads:Taryn- Picture Perfect by Jodi PicoultLindsey- Lore Of The Tides by Analeigh SbranaWhere you can find more of Lindsey:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/literaturewithlindsey?igsh=bncxdWw2bnNlNTYwTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@literaturewithlindsey?_t=ZP-8vb8jbGnHJf&_r=1Podcast: https://www.instagram.com/literaryferal?igsh=Y2N4Ym03ajI2MW9l
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Self-Publishing w/ Shandy Mandarino
This episode was such a blast to record. This was truly a full circle moment for me because Shandy was the first Indie author I ever read and befriended as I started my author journey. In this episode we get to hear about Shandy’s journey to self-publishing her first book, The Darkest Parts of Me. A cozy romance with a twist of sci-fi. She goes into the importance of having a community, learning marketing, putting yourself out there and attending events that lead to networking. Shandy’s story and the insight she had to share was truly inspiring.Taryn’s current read: The Dead Romantics by Ashley PostonOut Of The Woods by Hannah Bonam-YoungShandy’s current reads:Sunrise On The Reaping by Suzanne CollinsDark Age by Pierce BrownPlaces you can find Shandy:YouTube: https://youtube.com/@shandymandarino_author?si=bi9fx6WRlUq7pKGKInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/shandy_thewriter/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@shandymandarino_author?is_from_webapp=1&sender_device=pc
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Ultimate Author Resource Guide: Craft, Querying, and Publishing
Whether you’re just starting your writing journey or deep in the query trenches, finding the right resources can make all the difference. In this episode, I’m diving into the best tools, books, podcasts, and YouTube channels that can help you master the craft, navigate the query process and explore different publishing paths from writing techniques to industry insights. This is your one-stop guide to leveling up as an author—grab a notebook you won’t want to miss these recommendations!Current Reads:The New York Charm by Riley WintersPicture Perfect by Jodi PicoultRecommended Books:Story Genius by Lisa CronFunny You Should Ask by Barbara PoelleCraft Resource Links:No Write Way Podcast by VE Schwab- https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/no-write-way-with-v-e-schwab/id1738545065Brandon Sanderson- https://youtube.com/@brandsanderson?si=cuYSdhEFDJZ2uQh_Querying Resource Links:The Shit No One Tells You About Writing Podcast- https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-shit-no-one-tells-you-about-writing/id1530250126The Bookends agency YouTube Channel- https://youtube.com/@bookendsliterary?si=6UhGKu6hELTxn-ZKPublishing Resource Links: The Publishing Rodeo Podcast- https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/publishing-rodeo-the-good-the-bad-and-the-bloody-ugly/id1670458274The Writer Files Podcast- https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-writer-files-writing-productivity-creativity/id984527862
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The Art Of Not Giving Up w/ Kelsie Sheridan Gonzalez
In this episode I was truly privileged to have a chance to sit down with debut author, Kelsie Sheridan Gonzalez, to talk about her journey to bringing her book, The Gods Time Forgot, to publication. In celebration of her beautiful Irish Mythology x Gilded Age New York, Romantacy releasing April 8th, Kelsie and I talk about the research, time and energy that went into creating such a unique story. We also get to hear all about the challenges Kelsie has faced and had to overcome to bring her book to fruition. This discussion was so insightful and inspiring, I cannot wait for ya’ll to listen!Taryn’s current read:Macbeth by ShakespeareKelsie’s current read:Their Will Undone by R.J. Valldeperas (Beta read)Blood Over Bright Haven by M.L. WangWhere you can find Kelsie:Website- https://kelsiesheridangonzalez.com/Instagram- https://www.instagram.com/kelsiesheridangonzalez/TikTok- https://www.tiktok.com/@kelsiesheridangonzalez
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Book Lovers Take The Mic w/ Lydia
In this episode of the Wannabe Author I am introducing the newest segment of Book Lovers Take The Mic/ The Reader Rant Room where I invite reader influencers, bookish content creators to sit and talk about books they love, books they don't, what they would love to see more of in upcoming books and what about books tend to catch their eye. I was truly fortunate to sit and chat with Lydia, an aspiring author and bookish content creator to talk about all these things and a little about her WIP.Who else should I have on to chat??Taryn's current reads:Out Of The Woods by Hannah Bonam-YoungConsider Me by Becka MackLydia's current reads:Out Of The Woods by Hannah Bonam-YoungHeir of Fire by Sarah J MaasAnd Every Morning the Way Home Gets Longer and Longer by Fredrik BackmanWhere you can find Lydia:Instagram: @ literaturewithlydiaPodcast (Spotify, Apple Podcasts): Literature With Lydia Podcast
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Booktok to Self-published Author w/ Riley Winters
In this episode of The Wannabe Author, I sit down with debut author, Riley Winters, to talk about her journey to publishing The New York Charm! Riley shares how she built her reader base on Booktok, the reality of self-publishing, and just how far she was willing to go to make her dream a reality. We dive into the inspiration behind her novel, what it truly takes to bring a book to life, and how being a reader first has shaped her as a writer. Whether you are an aspiring author or just love a good second-chance romance, this is an episode you won’t want to miss!Taryn’s current reads:Never by Jessa HastingsAll Rhodes Lead Here by Mariana ZapataSpark Of The Everflame by Penn ColeRiley’s current reads:Promise Me Sunshine by Cara Bastone Where you can find more of Riley:Instagram: @authorrileywintersTikTok: @authorrileywinters
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Publishing + Writing Journey of I.V. Marie
In this episode I was so lucky to sit down and chat with author I.V. Marie to talk about her upcoming debut release Immortal Consequences. I.V. is such an incredible and inspiring author I have had the privilege of following for some time now. She is intelligent, fun, and has created such a unique world for us. This episode was a perfect discussion about writing, dedication to chase down a dream and the skill that goes in to creating a complex novel with multiple POVs. I cannot wait for y'all to listen to this episode and learn from I.V. the way I have been able to.Taryn's current read: Onyx Storm by Rebecca YarrosI.V.'s current read: Perfume by Patrick Süskind, The Weaver Bride by Lydia GregovicOther places you can find I.V. Marie:YouTube: @ivmariebooks (https://studio.youtube.com/channel/UCS4XgfvZ2vs_jRAxL4aEZ2w) TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@ivmariebooks?is_from_webapp=1&sender_device=pcInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/ivmariebooks/?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet
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Updates, Unhinged Confessions and a Q&A
In this episode I get to have a one on one chat with y’all about updates in my publishing journey, writing and unhinged confessions regarding all the things. I also take some time to answer questions you have all been asking in comments, DM’s and messages! This is just a very FaceTime chat with a friend feeling episode! Hope you like it and thank you for listening!Current Reads:Never by Jessa HastingsAll Rhodes Lead Here by Mariana Zapata
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The Ins and Outs of Being an Author w/ Sophia Riley
In this episode, I sit down with debut author, Sophia Riley, who is currently on submission, to talk about the highs and lows of the publishing journey. From querying to navigating submission, Sophia shares her personal experience and the lessons she has learned along the way. As the founder of Novel Bound, a thriving community of next gen writers, she also gives invaluable advice for aspiring authors looking to break into the industry.Whether you are deep in the trenches of querying or just starting out, this episode is packed with insight, encouragement, and real talk about what it takes to be an author.Where you can find Sophia:Instagram: @purely.sophiaTikTok: @purely.sophiaYouTube: @Purely.SophiaWriting Community: Novel Bound
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6
Bookish Bestie Buds
This episode is truly an unhinged monstrosity buuuuuut it is also in honor of my best pal whose birthday is in just a couple days. My best bud Ashlee entered my life when I was a real low point and she brought the life and creativity back into me. She was the first to know, support, and cheer me on when it came to this little dream I had of becoming a published author and she continues to do so as I work toward that goal.This episode was just a little glimpse into the absolute chaos and fun that is our friendship. Hope y’all can listen to this episode and get a real laugh, but also know how much I truly love my bestie. Happy Listening❤️P.S. What do we think of more readers stealing the mic?👀Stay tuned for more, coming soon to The Wannabe Author.
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Therapy for Writers: How to Survive Burnout & Rejection
💬Struggling with burnout, rejection, or self-doubt as a writer? You're not alone. In this episode of The Wannabe Author, I'm joined by Tiffany Moser, a licensed therapist, to talk about the mental health struggles that come with writing and publishing.We dive into:⏳How to recognize and recover from burnout🚪Handling rejection without losing confidence📖Why we turn to books as an escape🧠Strategies to protect your mental health as a writer✨Whether you're an aspiring author or a seasoned writer, this conversation is a must-watch for anyone navigating the emotional highs and lows of storytelling.Where you can find more of Tiffany:Instagram: @tiffanymosertherapyTikTok: @tiffanymosertherapyWebsite: https://www.collectivecounselors.com/tiffany-moser-lmftBooks mentioned:Taryn’s current reads- Iron Flame by Rebecca Yarros The Body Keeps The Score by Bessel Van Der Kolk MDTiffany’s current fun reads-The Unselected Journals of Emma M Lion by Beth BrowerThe Anxious Generation by Jonathan Haidt
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The Journey of Author and Screenwriter Jennifer E. Archer
In this episode I am joined by my friend, author and screenwriter, Jennifer E. Archer. Jenn and I have an awesome discussion about her journey as the author and screenwriter of her debut release, Into The Deep Blue, which is expected to come out this year. We discuss the different routes of publishing, what it takes to screen write one’s own book and a little about social media and the part it has to play in the success of a book. Jenn was truly a treat to sit with, learn from and relate with on the ups and downs of the author life. I know you will love her and what she has to say as much as I do.Where you can find Jenn:Instagram: @jennwritesWebsite: www.jenniferarcherauthor.com
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A journey from self-pub to trad w/Alissa DeRogatis
In this episode I am joined by one of my idols in the book world. Alissa DeRogatis, originally a self-published author, takes time to chat with me about her journey from self-publishing her debut to traditional publishing. Alissa has such an incredible story to tell with her emotional heavy book and self-determination to create something great out of a heartbreak that inspired her book. I learned so much from her just in the short time I had with her and I know you will too!To find more Alissa you can find her atInstagram: @alissaderogatisTikTok: @alissaderogatisYouTube: @alissaderogatisDo not miss out on her book Call It What You Want, available in bookstores near you!
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Introduction
Welcome to episode one! Hangout with me while I introduce myself as your favorite Wannabe Author. I will chat, tell you about how I started out writing my book, how I went from never planning to publish to self-publishing. I will also go into the story of how a terrible review of my book motivated me to look into traditional publishing and got me to where I am now as a debut author on submission!
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Trailer
A fun introduction to the podcast, what to expect, who I am and what to look forward to! First episode will drop January 16th 2025! Thanks for being here!
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ABOUT THIS SHOW
Ever wonder what it really takes to go from zero to published? Join me, Taryn, as I navigate the messy, exhilarating and often frustrating journey of becoming an author— without any prior experience. Each episode dives into books, breaks down the craft of writing, explores mental health, and shares valuable lessons I’ve learned through trial and (so much) error. With interviews featuring authors, mental health professionals, and readers, The Wannabe Author offers fresh, unfiltered look at the world of storytelling and publishing. Tune in— it’s a damn good time!
HOSTED BY
Taryn Christeen
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