The Career Author Podcast

Latest Episodes:

What is a Career Author (August 2020)? Aug 27, 2020

Show notes

What is a Career Author (August 2020)?

What does it mean to be a career author? This is not an easy question to answer and one that involves a deeper discussion on how we define this elusive creature.

Every writer with aspirations of making money from their words has a different definition of success. For some, it’s all about the “x-figure author,” but for others lifestyle matters more than revenue. Also, is financial gain the only way to define a career author? The guys answer with a resounding “no” while exploring alternative ways of measuring your own success in the publishing industry.

The Career Author Podcast is a podcast where co-authors J. Thorn and Zach Bohannon share their struggles and successes as full-time authors, advice for improving your writing craft, and honest discussions of what it takes to build a successful career as an author.

In this episode, you’ll discover:

The ways authors measure financial success
Why independence is hard to quantify but might ultimately be more important than revenue
How some authors define success by their level of skill, experience, or status
Why it's difficult to arrive at a consensus on what makes a “career author” or “indie writer.”

Also, J. recommends a new podcast about technology and culture.

Send us your ways and hacks - https://thecareerauthor.com/waysandhacks/

Leave us a comment: What is your definition of a career author?

Thanks to all of our patrons!

Podcast sponsored by Kobo Writing Life - https://writinglife.kobobooks.com

Get exclusive bonus content by supporting The Career Author Podcast on Patreon at www.patreon.com/thecareerauthor

Want to work with us? Get the details at https://thecareerauthor.com/services/

Links:

Wild Wild Tech Podcast = https://pod.casts.io/podcasts/wild-wild-tech

2021 Events - https://thecareerauthor.com/events/

Chapter Check service - https://chaptercheck.com/

The Career Author YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/thecareerauthor

Three Story Method - https://books2read.com/threestorymethod

Three Story Method Workbook - https://amzn.to/37SAR1a

Molten Universe Media - http://www.moltenuniversemedia.com

See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Character Backstory Aug 20, 2020

Show notes

Character Backstory

We all have a story. The unique events that each of us experience build us and make us who we are. And the characters in your stories should be no different.

Backstory is crucial for helping your character feel relatable to the reader. But what memories should you include in your books? And how do you deliver the information to the reader without it appearing as an info dump?

Join J. and Zach as they discuss the importance of backstory and how to properly implement it into your stories.

In this episode, you’ll discover:

The big question to ask when determining what backstory to include in your work
Why backstory is important
How to implement backstory into your writing
Showing versus Telling your backstory
How to work backstory into a series of novels

Also, Zach recommends one of his favorite YouTube channels for productivity.

Send us your ways and hacks - https://thecareerauthor.com/waysandhacks/

Leave us a comment: What are your tricks or tips for writing your first chapter?

Thanks to our new Patron,.

Podcast sponsored by Kobo Writing Life - https://writinglife.kobobooks.com

Get exclusive bonus content by supporting The Career Author Podcast on Patreon at www.patreon.com/thecareerauthor

Want to work with us? Get the details at https://thecareerauthor.com/services/

Links:

Matt D’Avella on YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCJ24N4O0bP7LGLBDvye7oCA

2021 Events - https://thecareerauthor.com/events/

Chapter Check service - https://chaptercheck.com/

The Career Author YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/thecareerauthor

Three Story Method - https://books2read.com/threestorymethod

Three Story Method Workbook - https://amzn.to/37SAR1a

Molten Universe Media - http://www.moltenuniversemedia.com

See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Hooking the Reader with Your First Chapter Aug 13, 2020

Show notes

Hooking the Reader with Your First Chapter

If you’re walking through the grocery store and an employee offers you a free sample of a new brand of cheese. You’re likely to taste it. If you like the cheese, you might buy some. But if it tastes terrible, you won’t buy the product.

Reading behaviors aren’t any different. Hooking the reader with your first chapter is a critical and yet overlooked element of being an independent author or publisher. A snazzy cover and singing blurb only gets you so far. If the story doesn’t deliver, you’ll lose the sale. Lucky for us, we know readers always start the book with chapter one.

Join J. and Zach as they discuss the anatomy of a strong first chapter so you’ll know what to do and what to avoid in yours.

In this episode, you’ll discover:

The mindset you need for that first chapter
Which logistics to consider
Elements of characterization that are important
How form and style can set your writing apart

Also, J. recommends an outline and productivity tool.

Send us your ways and hacks - https://thecareerauthor.com/waysandhacks/

Leave us a comment: What are your tricks or tips for writing your first chapter?

Thanks to our new Patron, Stephanie Bond.

Podcast sponsored by Kobo Writing Life - https://writinglife.kobobooks.com

Get exclusive bonus content by supporting The Career Author Podcast on Patreon at www.patreon.com/thecareerauthor

Want to work with us? Get the details at https://thecareerauthor.com/services/

Links:

Workflowy - https://workflowy.com/

2021 Events - https://thecareerauthor.com/events/

Chapter Check service - https://chaptercheck.com/

The Career Author YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/thecareerauthor

Three Story Method - https://books2read.com/threestorymethod

Three Story Method Workbook - https://amzn.to/37SAR1a

Molten Universe Media - http://www.moltenuniversemedia.com

See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Writing Short Fiction Aug 06, 2020

Show notes

Writing Short Fiction

In the indie community it’s often said that the best way to make money is to write novels, specifically in series of three or more books. But what about writing short fiction?

From short stories to novellas, there are several different types of short fiction. Each offers not only a different reader experience from a full-blown novel, but they are also a different art form to create. Join the guys as they discuss the ups and downs and writing and selling short fiction.

In this episode, you’ll discover:

The different types of short fiction
How writing short stories is different than writing a novel
Whether you should submit stories to publications
The difference in marketing short fiction versus novels

Also, Zach recommends a book about writing and marketing short fiction.

Send us your ways and hacks - https://thecareerauthor.com/waysandhacks/

Leave us a comment: Do you enjoy writing short fiction and how do you use it in your business?

Thanks to our new Patrons,

Podcast sponsored by Kobo Writing Life - https://writinglife.kobobooks.com

Get exclusive bonus content by supporting The Career Author Podcast on Patreon at www.patreon.com/thecareerauthor

Want to work with us? Get the details at https://thecareerauthor.com/services/

Links:

Taking the Short Tack: Creating Income and Connecting with Readers by Matty Dalrymple and Mark Leslie Lefebvre - https://www.amazon.com/dp/B083ZJ9X6Y/

2021 Events - https://thecareerauthor.com/events/

J.’s monthly mastermind membership - https://theauthorsuccessmastermind.com/join/

The Career Author YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/thecareerauthor

Three Story Method - https://books2read.com/threestorymethod

Three Story Method Workbook - https://amzn.to/37SAR1a

Molten Universe Media - http://www.moltenuniversemedia.com

See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Sharpening the Saw: Doing the Things We Hate Doing Jul 30, 2020

Show notes

Sharpening the Saw: Doing the Things We Hate Doing

As career authors or even part-time writers, we all have to do things we hate. In a perfect world, authors could sit in a cabin in the woods, happily slapping the typewriter without a care or concern. But that’s not reality, and with the exception of a few authors, it’s never been how the industry works.

“Sharpening the saw” is an important routine in any writer’s life. Or it should be. Like a craftsman, sometimes you have to stop working and maintain the tools that allow you to create whether those are analog or digital. Join the fellas as they discuss some of those pesky tasks that need to be done with suggestions on how to make it just a little less painful.

In this episode, you’ll discover:

Why you can’t neglect your digital files
The consequences of ignoring your email list
The less-painful approach to creating book links
Why you need to keep track of your author bio
Why even social media accounts need a little attention every now and then

Also, J. recommends Athletic Greens as a replacement for green juices and supplements.

Send us your ways and hacks - https://thecareerauthor.com/waysandhacks/

Leave us a comment: What’s the thing you hate doing the most?

Thanks to our new Patrons, Marianne Hansen Rencher and Jon Svenson!

Podcast sponsored by Kobo Writing Life - https://writinglife.kobobooks.com

Get exclusive bonus content by supporting The Career Author Podcast on Patreon at www.patreon.com/thecareerauthor

Want to work with us? Get the details at https://thecareerauthor.com/services/

Links:

Athletic Greens - https://athleticgreens.com

Episode 109 - Accounting for Authors - https://thecareerauthor.com/accounting-for-authors/

Episode 97 - Optimizing SEO with Dianna Gunn - https://thecareerauthor.com/optimizing-seo-with-dianna-gunn/

Episode 69 - Tag! You’re it! Opt-in forms and Tagging Your List - https://thecareerauthor.com/ep069/

Episode 60 – Nerd Alert! Implementing a Backup System - https://thecareerauthor.com/the-career-author-podcast-episode-60-nerd-alert-implementing-a-backup-system/

Episode 50 – List Building Fundamentals (List Building Part 1) - https://thecareerauthor.com/the-career-author-podcast-episode-50-list-building-fundamentals-list-building-part-1/

Episode 56 – Content Marketing for Fiction (List Building Part 2) -

Launching an Amazon Bestselling Fiction Book in 2020 Jul 23, 2020

Show notes

Launching an Amazon Bestselling Fiction Book in 2020

Indie authors often talk about the “gold rush” era of self-publishing when a smaller pool of authors and Amazon’s looser algorithms made it easier to sell books on their platform. But with increased competition and the push toward a play-to-play marketplace, is 2020 too late to have success selling fiction?

The answer is no, it’s not too late. Zach recently launched the first book in a new series to bestseller status on Amazon, and on this episode of the podcast, he breaks down what he did and how he has kept the sales going after the dreaded “30-Day Cliff.”

In this episode, you’ll discover:

How many sales it takes to have an Amazon bestseller
Why Zach believes in silent pre-orders
What strategies work best during a book launch
Why patience and professionalism are crucial
Zach’s big takeaways from his latest launch

Also, Zach recommends a brand new podcast from one of his favorite productivity authors.

Send us your ways and hacks - https://thecareerauthor.com/waysandhacks/

Leave us a comment: What strategy has worked best for you when launching a book? If you haven’t published yet, what will you focus on when developing a launch plan?

Thanks to all our Patrons!

Podcast sponsored by Kobo Writing Life - https://writinglife.kobobooks.com

Get exclusive bonus content by supporting The Career Author Podcast on Patreon at www.patreon.com/thecareerauthor

Want to work with us? Get the details at https://thecareerauthor.com/services/

Links:

Deep Questions with Cal Newport - https://www.calnewport.com/podcast/

Kindlepreneur video on Pre-Orders - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ugj0gC2OwQs

2021 Events - https://thecareerauthor.com/events/

J.’s monthly mastermind membership - https://theauthorsuccessmastermind.com/join/

The Career Author YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/thecareerauthor

Three Story Method - https://books2read.com/threestorymethod

Three Story Method Workbook - https://amzn.to/37SAR1a

Molten Universe Media - http://www.moltenuniversemedia.com

See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Talking with Tara from Kobo Jul 16, 2020

Show notes

Talking with Tara from Kobo

There’s value in “going wide” and one of the most trusted and thriving marketplaces is Kobo Writing Life. J. and Zach invite Tara Cremin on the show to discuss everything Kobo has to offer the independent author.

We all know what Amazon can offer but exclusivity isn’t the only choice. As an indie, we have the ability to test and adapt quickly, reaching readers in different places and in different ways. Kobo can help you take your writing to the next level with exclusive promotions, international reach, and personalized support services.

Also, J. and Zach announce their 2021 events!

http://thecareerauthor.com/events/

In this episode, you’ll discover:

The problems with exclusivity
Why it’s important to focus on the international market
What Kobo is doing in the audiobook space

Also, J. discusses the Kobo promotions tab - https://writinglife.kobo.com/promotions.

Send us your ways and hacks - https://thecareerauthor.com/waysandhacks/

Leave us a comment: How do you plan to take advantage of everything KWL has to offer?

Thanks to new Patron, Brent Golembiewski!

Podcast sponsored by Kobo Writing Life - https://writinglife.kobobooks.com

Get exclusive bonus content by supporting The Career Author Podcast on Patreon at www.patreon.com/thecareerauthor

Want to work with us? Get the details at https://thecareerauthor.com/services/

Links:

Kobo Writing Life - https://writinglife.kobo.com/

J.’s monthly mastermind membership - https://theauthorsuccessmastermind.com/join/

The Career Author YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/thecareerauthor

Three Story Method - https://books2read.com/threestorymethod

Three Story Method Workbook - https://amzn.to/37SAR1a

Molten Universe Media - http://www.moltenuniversemedia.com

Events - https://thecareerauthor.com/events/

See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Why You Need a Passion Project Jul 09, 2020

Show notes

Why You Need a Passion Project

No matter how much you love being a career author, you will definitely need a break from the work at one time or another. It’s easy to cram writing and marketing into the few available hours you might have and it’s hard to walk away when you’re the only one managing your time.

J. and Zach have an open and honest conversation about the role of passion projects and hobbies in their lives and businesses. J. spent a year developing a new podcast that culminated in a collaboration with his son during the pandemic lockdown as well as reconnecting with an old band mate.

In this episode, you’ll discover:

The importance of filling the creative well
Why it’s important to get back to nature
What will happen if you ignore your physical health
How hobbies can improve mental clarity and capacity
Why you have to tend to your relationships
How hobbies can possibly be monetized
How you can apply what you’ve learned on passion projects to your writing or business

Also, J. discusses a coffee alternative that’ll help clear your head and defeat that caffeine addiction.

Send us your ways and hacks - https://thecareerauthor.com/waysandhacks/

Leave us a comment: What is your passion project or hobby?

Thanks to our Patrons.

Podcast sponsored by Kobo Writing Life - https://writinglife.kobobooks.com

Get exclusive bonus content by supporting The Career Author Podcast on Patreon at www.patreon.com/thecareerauthor

Want to work with us? Get the details at https://thecareerauthor.com/services/

Links:

Consequences of Rock - https://consequencesofrock.com/

Organic French Chicory - https://amzn.to/2YRcoYI

J.’s monthly mastermind membership - https://theauthorsuccessmastermind.com/join/

The Career Author YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/thecareerauthor

Three Story Method - https://books2read.com/threestorymethod

Three Story Method Workbook - https://amzn.to/37SAR1a

Molten Universe Media - http://www.moltenuniversemedia.com

Events - https://thecareerauthor.com/events/

See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Nailing Your Amazon Book Page Jul 02, 2020

Show notes

Nailing Your Amazon Book Page

Being a Career Author in 2020 requires more than simply writing words and finishing books. You’re running a business. And there’s perhaps no place that demonstrates that more than your book’s Amazon page. This is where readers will likely come to buy your book, and if you want to convert sales, it’s important to know how to maximize the space Amazon has given us and to make your page as professional as possible.

In this episode, you’ll discover:

Why a professional book cover is crucial
What makes up a good book title
How to craft a reader-hooking product description
How readers shop on Amazon
Why keywords are the most important part of your book’s metadata
When it’s time to make changes to your book’s Amazon page

Also, Zach explains why it’s okay, and often necessary, to slow down and hit pause in the wake of tragedy.

Send us your ways and hacks - https://thecareerauthor.com/waysandhacks/

Leave us a comment: When shopping for books online, what most often leads you to click the ‘buy’ button?

Thanks to our Patrons.

Podcast sponsored by Kobo Writing Life - https://writinglife.kobobooks.com

Get exclusive bonus content by supporting The Career Author Podcast on Patreon at www.patreon.com/thecareerauthor

Want to work with us? Get the details at https://thecareerauthor.com/services/

Links:

J.’s monthly mastermind membership - https://theauthorsuccessmastermind.com/join/

The Career Author YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/thecareerauthor

Three Story Method - https://books2read.com/threestorymethod

Three Story Method Workbook - https://amzn.to/37SAR1a

Molten Universe Media - http://www.moltenuniversemedia.com

Events - https://thecareerauthor.com/events/

See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Authors Services as a Revenue Stream Jun 25, 2020

Show notes

Authors Services as a Revenue Stream

Selling only fiction is tough. In fact, only a small percentage of authors (both traditional and indie) make a full-time living solely from fiction. Therefore, you need to think more like a business person if you want to be happily self-employed. In response to a listener question, J. and Zach break down the different ways you can create author services that can function as additional revenue streams and keep you happily self-employed.

In this episode, you’ll discover:

The need for your “special sauce” and why niching down is critical
Types of services you can offer that serve the writing and publishing community
The channels you can use to build a client base
How to balance your time between writing and working on your business

Also, J. explains why Kindle Highlights can change the way you research and learn.

Send us your ways and hacks - https://thecareerauthor.com/waysandhacks/

Leave us a comment: Do you have author services as a revenue stream? If so, how is it working for you? If you don’t yet, what will be your secret sauce?

Thanks to our Patrons.

Podcast sponsored by Kobo Writing Life - https://writinglife.kobobooks.com

Get exclusive bonus content by supporting The Career Author Podcast on Patreon at www.patreon.com/thecareerauthor

Want to work with us? Get the details at https://thecareerauthor.com/services/