The Career Novelist™ Podcast With Camille Pagán

A month after the publication of Dog Person, Camille’s 11th book, she shares: The secret to not hating book promotion (really)How to get the support you want at publication—and beyondThe crucial step that authors crave … yet so often forget when they’re in the middle of launching Applications are open for the Prolific Mastermind. If you’re a published novelist (or your debut is coming out in 2026), this small group experience is designed to help you create a prolific and profitable fiction career. Learn more and apply at evenbetter.co/prolific.

Tune in to hear Camille’s interview with Nicole Meier on the Whole Writer podcast. She talks about:Why creating a body of work is *the* most important step in your fiction careerHow to build belief by borrowing from other authors’ experiencesThe sneaky way your Plan B is sabotaging your big writing goalsHer path from author to career coach to novelists Thanks to Nicole Meier for this fantastic interview! To learn more about how Nicole works with writers, visit www.nicolemeier.com.

Feel like you haven’t done enough, that your book isn’t good enough—or even that you aren’t enough? This episode’s for you. Camille covers: Why she’s focusing on enoughness for the publication of Dog PersonSneaky ways “not enoughness” can show up and sabotage your fiction careerSimple strategies for feeling better about who and where you are—right nowTo learn more about Dog Person, visit www.camillepagan.com/dogperson. To request late registration for the Q2 Career Novelists Membership, email [email protected]. NOTE: Camille is taking off the rest of April. The next episode of the Career Novelist Podcast will air May 5th. 

Are you operating as though you won’t reach your goals? If so, here’s how to flip the script on that—and succeed. Camille shares:How to spot a failure planWhy your “time-bound” goals may be secretly sabotaging youThe most important ingredient for creating the career you really wantDoors are now open for the Q2 Career Novelists Membership. To learn more and join, visit www.evenbetter.co/membership.

Whether you’re fast drafting, editing on a crunch, or rushing to meet a production schedule, there are perks to speed—but there are also crucial steps to take to avoid burnout. In this episode, Camille shares:How she’s handling one of the tightest turnarounds of her fiction careerThe editing strategy that may just save you from overworkingWhen to delay certain tasks—or just stop doing them altogetherFor more info about Camille’s next novel and where she’s speaking, visit

If you’re struggling right now and it’s impacting your writing, you’re not alone. In this episode, Camille shares: The time she missed a major deadline—and why she was wrong about it hurting her careerThe simple question that can help you feel better faster When to lower the bar—and even take a break from your bookHow to make writing more of a respite and less of a deadline-driven activity

Comparison is inevitable. But it can also make you feel lousy—and even hold you back from your goals. In today’s episode, Camille shares:How she rebounded when she realized she was comparing herself to other novelistsWhat research reveals about the pitfalls—and perks—of two common types of comparisonA simple coaching exercise to move past comparisonitis, so you can get back to writing Pitch Pro starts February 11, 2026. If you’re seeking expert feedback on your query and a proven process for querying and pitching traditionally, visit www.evenbetter.co/pitch

Pitching your novel and building an author brand doesn’t have to feel salesy or slimy. Whether you’re querying your first book or are looking for more efficient ways to market your backlist, there’s an easier and more authentic way to make your work appealing to readers. In this episode, Camille shares: The unexpected conversation with a fellow author that prompted her to rethink how she described her fictionWhat agents really mean when they say “I don’t have a vision for your novel” A simple framework for making your writing sound enticingJoin Pitch Pro and discover how to sell your novel and position yourself as a novelist industry pros can’t wait to work with. You’ll learn everything you need to know about querying and pitching traditionally—and get personalized query edits from Camille. Learn more and register at www.evenbetter.co/pitch

Is your fiction a true priority—or are you putting it on the back burner while you put out other people’s fires? The answer can make all the difference in your success. In this episode, Camille shares: Common misconceptions about what it means to take yourself seriously (hint: it’s not about ego)The if/then thinking that keeps many novelists stuck The simple decision-making process that can change the way you think of yourself—and how industry pros regard you, tooJoin Camille and certified book coach Nicole Meier for 3 Secrets to Selling Your Novel on January 29th. Learn more and sign up for this free webinar at www.evenbetter.co/webinar

Ready to begin your year as a novelist with a renewed sense of motivation and possibility? This episode’s for you. Camille shares: The surprising result of her “positive input” experimentThe research-backed benefits of connecting your current novel to your ideal longterm careerWhy consistency is the ultimate energy hack—and how to make that an effortless part of your writing lifeJoin the Q1 Career Novelists Membership, whick kicks off January 7th: www.evenbetter.co/membership

Some periods of life are busier than others. That doesn’t have to mean giving up your fiction goals. In this episode, Camille shares:A simple way to reframe consistency How to best use your time when you can’t focus on writing Strategies for avoiding the “competency curse”Join the Q1 Career Novelists Membership, which is all about planning to succeed. We kick off January 7th. www.evenbetter.co/membership 

Gratitude is wonderful—but too many writers mistakenly believe it’s at odds with ambition. In this episode, Camille shares:The single biggest myth about gratitude—and why it may be holding you backWhy you’re probably not giving yourself enough appreciation (and how to correct that)How to be grateful without sacrificing your writing goalsIf you’re a published novelist and would like to spend six months coaching with Camille and working closely with a small group of novelists, apply for the Prolific Mastermind, which kicks off on December 12. Visit evenbetter.co/prolific to apply. 

Do you worry—or even believe—you can’t reach your writing goals? This episode may just change your mind. In it, Camille shares: Why we have thoughts that actively work against our goalsThe surprising connection between shame and your beliefs about your careerThe power of a slightly better thoughtIf you’re on Substack, connect with Camille at https://substack.com/@thecareernovelist

Feel like you should’ve started earlier or should be farther along in your fiction career? In today’s episode, Camille shares: Why success won’t cure the misbelief that you’re out of time.The real thought that’s often lurking behind “I missed the boat”—and how it holds you back.Simple strategies to change your mind about what’s still possible for you. For more inspiration and information you can use to uplevel your fiction career, sign up for the Career Novelist newsletter: https://thecareernovelist.substack.com/

Not sure if your story has what it takes? In this episode, Camille shares:How she moved past doubts about her next bookThe truth about what makes a novel “high-concept”A common misconception about writerly worries (hint: they’re not a sign your novel—or career—is doomed)To learn to pitch, position, and sell your novel, sign up for Pitch Pro, which starts November 1st. Learn more at www.evenbetter.co/pitch.

Fiction requires flow—which is why it’s so important to shield yourself from unsolicited criticism and other creativity-crushers. In this episode, Camille discusses: How and when to share your work The move that’s even more detrimental than inviting too many cooks into your creative kitchenWhere sustained creativity actually comes from (hint: it’s not your muse)Ready to sell your next novel? Pitch Pro begins October 25th. Join before October 21st and you’ll receive two rounds of personalized edits on your query. Learn more and register at www.evenbetter.co/pitch

Yes, you can find more time for fiction this fall. In this episode, Camille shares three ways to prioritize your publishing career (even if your life's incredibly busy). Want to expand your network of novelists and get coached by Camille? Join the Q4 Career Novelists Membership. www.evenbetter.co/membership  

Don’t want to be a starving artist? You’re in luck. In today’s episode, Camille shares how novelists actually become profitable—and how you can, too. She shares: Surprising sources of fiction income Why a low advance isn’t inherently badThe truth about negative emotions (hint: they won’t block  money. In fact, they might be the secret to making more of it)Registration for the Career Novelists Membership is now open! To learn more and join a small community of novelists dedicated to creating even better fiction careers, visit evenbetter.co/membership

Worried you’re writing the “wrong” kind of novel—or that you’ll have to market in a way you don’t want to in order to succeed? In this episode, Camille shares: Why we think being different is detrimental … and why the opposite is actually trueWhat agents and editors really mean when they say “I don’t have a vision for this”A simple formula for making your work marketable—without selling out  To sign up for Plan to Publish, a free webinar on September 22nd, visit:www.evenbetter.co/webinarWant to uplevel your novel’s pitch and positioning? Pitch Pro kicks off October 18th. To learn more and sign up to be notified when doors open, visit: www.evenbetter.co/pitch

If your last book didn’t sell well—or at all!—and you’re worried your publishing career is over, this episode’s for you. In it, Camille shares: The myth of being “unpublishable”The unexpected lesson Camille learned as a runner that made all the difference in her fiction careerThe most important thing you can do to create another chanceIn the next episode, Camille will share details on an upcoming webinar you won’t want to miss. If you’re not already, make sure you’re subscribed to the Career Novelist newsletter to be the first to get details: www.evenbetter.co/how-to

Putting distance between yourself and success is ridiculous—right? Think again. In this episode, Camille shares:The real reason you may push your goals away (hint: it’s not because you don’t really want them)The scathing review that Camille interpreted as a sign her fiction career was overFive sneaky but common signs of self-sabotage—and how to move past each oneWant to work one-on-one with Camille? Learn more and fill out an application for coaching at evenbetter.co/coaching.

Struggling to find time and mental space to write and market your work? You’re hardly alone. In this episode, Camille shares: Why relying on willpower is the worst possible idea when you’re overwhelmed (and what works far better)The unexpected benefit of calendaring your writing timeThe 80% rule that can help you deal with life’s little (and not-so-little) plot twistsWant to uplevel your pitch and sell your novel? Sign up for Pitch Pro, a six-week course that will teach you to sell your story—and your potential as an author. Register before August 1st and you’ll receive two personalized rounds of query edits. Learn more and join at www.evenbetter.co/pitch

Not getting the support you seek from your nearest and dearest—or your agent or professional network? This episode’s for you. Camille shares: Why talking yourself out of feeling bad backfiresHow to show up like a pro while making your needs clearThe surprising (research-backed!) upside of expecting support from othersIf you’re a debut author, or are preparing to sell your first novel, check out this free resource on getting better support: www.evenbetter.co/debutFor more info on writing a breakout book, check out Bestseller Bootcamp, a self-paced course: www.evenbetter.co/bestseller

You still have time to make 2025 your best writing and publishing year yet. In this episode, Camille shares: Her hits and misses from the first half of 2025The critical thing to keep in mind before committing to a new course of actionSix simple but essential questions to set yourself up for success in the second half of the yearSign up for the Career Novelist Newsletter: www.evenbetter.co/how-toConnect with Camille on Instagram: www.instagram.com/camillepagan

Research shows that focusing on the long-term ups your odds of success now and later. In this episode, Camille shares: Why writers often resist thinking too far into the future (and why that’s a mistake).The simple question that clarifies what you really want for your fiction career.How to write a bio that helps you turn your vision into your reality. Want to get coached by Camille? Join Bestseller Bootcamp before June 18th and you’ll have access to two live coaching calls where you can get personalized input on your fiction career. For more information and to join, visit www.evenbetter.co/bestseller.

Reaching your writing goals doesn’t require rushing. In fact, slowing down is often the best way to achieve success. In today’s episode, Camille shares: The surprising reasons writers rush (even with work that’s really important to us).Signs you might be hurrying … without realizing it.How to use smarter deadlines to slow your roll without losing momentum.Sign up for Bestseller Bootcamp now through the end of June to attend up to four live group coaching sessions with Camille. The first live session is this Friday, June 6th; additional sessions take place throughout the month. For details and to sign up, visit www.evenbetter.co/bestseller.

Alice Walker wrote, “Being proud of yourself is not arrogant; it is a sign of self-respect.” In today’s episode, Camille shares:How to take pride in what you’ve done (hint: It’s less about what you share with others and more about what you say to yourself). Why you should stop being self-deprecating—especially when it comes to your natural talents.Two simple words that can transform your ability to take credit.Want to learn more about how to create a sustainable author brand and career? Check out Bestseller Bootcamp. Visit https://www.evenbetter.co/bestseller to learn more. 

Yes, publishing is a long game—but staying in it and succeeding requires short-term wins. In today’s episode, Camille shares: A common misconception about quick wins that keeps writers from taking full advantage of them. What research reveals about the importance of sweating—and tracking—the “small stuff.” Key questions that will help you choose your short-term goals wisely.Want to learn more about how to create a sustainable author brand and career? Check out Bestseller Bootcamp. Visit https://www.evenbetter.co/bestseller to learn more.

Does spending time (and maybe even money) on your fiction fill you with guilt? In today’s episode, Camille shares: The surprising upside of guilt—and how to tell when it’s not serving you. Simple questions that can keep guilt from lingering too long (so you can go back to writing).Why you don’t need to have “something to show” for your writing in order to feel good about it. Are you a debut author? Check out Camille’s free training to help you make the most of publishing your first novel: www.evenbetter.co/debut

When it comes to your fiction career, the willingness to pivot as needed is a competitive advantage. In today’s episode, Camille shares: Why we’re attracted to “proven” formulas (and why they usually fail). The importance of a long-term vision—and short-term flexibility. The reason 1-star reviews are a sign you’re doing something right in your writing. How to tell if it’s time to consider a new approach or publishing model. Want to learn more about how to create a sustainable author brand and career? Check out Bestseller Bootcamp. Visit https://www.evenbetter.co/bestseller to learn more.

You can’t spell breakthrough without “break”—yet so many writers push through when they should be doing the opposite. In this episode, Camille shares: Why taking longer on your novel may actually up the odds it’s perceived as valuable.A different (and arguably healthier) way to think about momentum. The questions that will help you determine whether you’re procrastinating or taking a productive pause.Note: The Career Novelist Podcast is off for the next month; tune in April 8th for episode 112, which kicks off Season 5. For more resources on creating an even better fiction career, visit EvenBetter.co.

Feel like you should’ve started earlier or should be farther along in your fiction career? In today’s episode, Camille shares: Why success won’t cure the misbelief that you’re out of time. The real thought that’s often lurking behind “I missed the boat”—and how it holds you back. Simple strategies to change your mind about what’s still possible for you. Want free author coaching? Sign up for the Career Novelist Newsletter at www.evenbetter.co/how-to to sign up for Camille’s open coaching call on February 28th. Learn more about the Career Novelist Mastermind, which begins March 7: www.evenbetter.co/mastermind

If you’re worried about whether your next novel will flop, this episode is for you. In it, Camille shares:The real reason writers tend to fixate on the dreaded sophomore slump.Why expecting the best doesn’t set you up for failure (and why the opposite is actually true).How to cultivate“walkaway power.”To sign up for the free Your Next Novel webinar on February 15th, visit: www.evenbetter.co/webinar To apply for the 2025 Career Novelist Mastermind, which kicks off on March 7th, visit: www.evenbetter.co/mastermind

In today’s episode, Camille shares what she learned in the process of selling her eleventh novel at the end of 2024. She shares:  Why timing really is everything. The importance of listening to your intuition (and how that’s not the same thing as predicting the future). The best belief to cultivate at every stage of the publishing process. Please note: In this episode, Camille briefly mentions grief related to losing a loved one to suicide. For resources on this topic, visit: https://sprc.org/tools/resources-survivors-suicide-loss/ To sign up for YOUR NEXT NOVEL, a free webinar on February 15th at 11 a.m. ET, visit: www.evenbetter.co/webinar To get on the waitlist for the Career Novelist Mastermind, which begins in March, visit: www.evenbetter.co/mastermind Connect with Camille on instagram at www.instagram.com/camillepagan We are aware of and apologize for the sound quality issues in this episode.

You know what you need to do to succeed as a novelist—so why aren’t you doing it? In this episode, Camille shares: A self-assessment to get to the bottom of why you’re not taking action. Why we engage in self-sabotaging behaviors—and how to do so less often. The surprising reason “cheat days” backfire. Tune in in two weeks to get the scoop on how Camille sold her new novel—and to find out about an upcoming free webinar on how to sell your next book, too.

Tired of wishing for the best, yet feeling like you don’t actually have control over your writing career? In today’s episode, Camille shares three strategies successful novelists use to reach their goals. She covers:  How to figure out what you really want—and why that matters.  Simple ways to use your storytelling skills to fuel motivation and take more action.  What your calendar reveals—and how to use it to prioritize your writing (without ditching the rest of your life). Want to learn more about how to create a sustainable author brand and career? Check out Bestseller Bootcamp. Visit https://www.evenbetter.co/bestseller to learn more. 

Trying to finish a draft, edit, or another project before the ball drops on New Year’s Eve? In this episode, Camille shares:  Why getting specific can lead to speed. Three common—yet often overlooked—saboteurs that may be slowing you down. Simple solutions for overcoming those saboteurs so you can finish the year strong.

Decided to keep writing? Fully committing can skyrocket your odds of reaching your publishing goals. In this episode, Camille shares: Common misconceptions about going all in. How to tell if a “failure plan”is standing between you and success. Why self-efficacy—that is, your belief in your ability to do the work—is far more important than talent or confidence. Debut author? Find out how to reduce burnout and find the right support in Camille’s free webinar for first-time authors. Visit: https://www.evenbetter.co/debut

To quote Annie Duke, author of the book Quit: The Power of Knowing When to Walk Away, “Contrary to popular belief, winners quit a lot. That’s how they win.” In this episode, Camille shares:  The biggest reason why we don’t give up when we secretly want to. How to decide if you’re done for now—or done for good.  Three key questions to ask yourself before you throw in the towel.  If you want to go deeper on positioning your book and creating a sustainable author brand, check out Bestseller Bootcamp. Visit evenbetter.co/besteller to learn more. 

If you’re not sure how to select stellar comps—or want to make sure you’ve nailed yours—Camille is sharing the audio replay of her recent webinar on this topic. She covers: Why comps are critical to a book’s success (regardless of genre or whether you’re traditionally- or self-published). Guidelines for picking the best comps for your novel. What to do if you’re between genres … or dislike most of your comps (it's a thing!). The biggest mistakes writers make when choosing comps—and simple fixes for each one. How to use comps to uplevel your marketing before, during, and after publication.  If you want to go deeper on positioning your book and creating a sustainable author brand, check out Bestseller Bootcamp. If you register prior to November 11, you’ll have access to five office hour calls where you can ask Camille questions about your individual book and career. Visit evenbetter.co/besteller to learn more. 

Welcome to the Career Novelist Podcast! After 100 episodes of You Should Write a Book, Camille is (very slightly) shifting the focus of the podcast. In this episode, she shares:  The definition of a Career Novelist—and why this term alone can help you bounce back from publishing setbacks. Her response to a well-known industry expert who asked her, “Aren’t you worried about giving writers false hope?”  The number one hurdle novelists face when it comes to publishing (spoiler alert: it’s marketing!)—and why focusing on writing is the best way to get over that and reach more readers.  To learn more about Bestseller Bootcamp, visit: www.evenbetter.co/bestseller

On the 100th episode of the You Should Write a Book podcast, Camille shares:  How a quote from James Clear prompted her to rethink her business.  The single most important thing a writer can do to reach their publishing goals (hint: it’s not building a social media following).   What to do if a lack of time, focus, or follow-through is keeping you from writing.  To sign up for the free Nail Your Comps webinar on October 24, 2024, visit: www.evenbetter.co/webinar To learn more about The Hot Sheet newsletter, which Camille mentions in today’s episode, visit: https://hotsheetpub.com Note: This podcast will publish biweekly for the rest of 2024. The next episode will air October 29, 2024. 

If you’re between books—or are simply thinking about what you’ll write after you’re done with your current draft—this episode is for you. Camille shares: How the paradox of choice can impact your writing career. Why writers are often especially vulnerable to “shiny object syndrome.” Five simple questions to ask yourself before committing to a book or another big project. For more resources on creating an even better author career, visit https://www.evenbetter.co

Whether you need help with craft, marketing, or your mindset, support can be transformative for your author career. In this episode, Camille shares:   How to find someone who’s the right fit for you. Why it’s wise to “try before you buy” (plus easy ways to do just that).  The importance of trusting your gut—and the difference between intuition and anxiety. What to do if you have buyer’s remorse. 

Yes, envy can feel lousy—but it also contains crucial information that can help your author career. In this episode, Camille shares:  The surprising upside of being jealous about another writer’s success.  Common misconceptions about envy—and how to harness that feeling to reach your next level as an author. Simple solutions for navigating another writer’s jealousy toward you.

Overwhelm can be caused by feeling like there’s too much to do—but it can also be the direct result of feeling like you’re not enough or haven’t done enough to succeed. In this episode, Camille talks about:   The surprising reason you might be focused on what you believe you’re lacking. Why it’s important to take credit for what you’ve already done—and a simple exercise to do just that. How to trust yourself (without trusting negative internal voices saying you don’t have what it takes).

Feel like there’s too much to do and it’s making it hard to write? In this episode, Camille shares: The cognitive cost of overwhelm—and what neurologists and psychologists say is often the unexpected cause of that fuzzy, can’t-seem-to-focus mental state.  Why getting clear on what you want to say ‘yes’ to might just be your first step to feeling better.  Seven things to consider clearing from your to-do list and/or life so you can reach your writing goals. This episode is the first of a two-part series. Tune in next week to learn how not-enoughness contributes to overwhelm—and how to move past it and get back to writing. 

You did it—you accomplished your goal. So…why aren’t you happy? In today’s episode, Camille shares: Why we often feel deflated instead of elated on publication day and after reaching other writing milestones. The sneaky way guilt can hijack your happiness. How to stop mistaking negative emotions for a lack of gratitude. The importance of marking the occasion—even when you don’t feel like celebrating.

Money stops many writers from pursuing their dreams—but it doesn’t have to. In today’s episode, Camille shares: The real investment required to become a career author (hint: it’s not cash) How even minor investments can lead to major self-image shifts Ideas for upleveling your career on a shoestring budget Register for Plan to Publish: Strategies for becoming a career novelist. This free webinar is on Saturday, August 17th, from 10-11 a.m. ET; a limited-time replay will be provided to all writers who register. Sign up and learn more at evenbetter.co/plan.

Yes, taste is subjective—but there are ways to tell if you’re ready to share your book with others. In this episode, Camille discusses: Why you may mistake self-doubt for a sign your draft stinks How to feel better about your work—at every stage of your career The importance of adopting a “testing” mindset when querying and publishing  Applications are open for the Career Novelist Mastermind, which combines proven publishing strategies with research-backed career and mindset coaching. To learn more and apply, visit evenbetter.co/mastermind.