Arts
**Wish I’d Known Then: a Podcast for Self Published Indie Writers**

Indie authors Jami Albright and Sara Rosett interview authors focusing on lessons learned about writing, marketing, and self-publishing.

Latest Episodes:

Navigating Tough Times in Indie Publishing Sep 30, 2026

Show notes

337 / Are you feeling uncertain about the state of the publishing industry and what it takes to thrive as an author right now?

We share our thoughts about industry shifts, adapting to change, and the power of gratitude in difficult times.

Why gratitude is so helpful when the industry changes
Adapting when sales and strategies stop working
Focusing on and serving your existing readers
Giving yourself permission to get outside income
Reframing success and letting go of self-imposed pressure

✨ This week’s sponsor is Vellum: http://tryvellum.com/wish

💙 Become a supporter of the podcast https://wishidknownforwriters.com/support or https://wishidknownthenpodcast.substack.com/subscribe

Access to backlist of exclusive supporter episodes
Shoutout on a future episode

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⚡Links:

Vellum: Vellum: http://tryvellum.com/wish
What are you grateful for? Send us a text and we’ll share during our gratitude episode.

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Support the show

🚀 Jami’s Consulting and Workshops: https://www.jamialbright.com/authorworkshops
❤️ Jami’s books https://amzn.to/3wSraA5
🔎 Sara’s books https://www.sararosett.com/bibliography/
📚 Sara’s How to Write a Series book and audiobook: https://www.sararosett.com/how-to-write-a-series/
The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes https://bookshop.org/lists/recommenced-resources-for-writers-from-the-wish-i-d-known-then-podcast

Sarah L. Kaufman: Sharpen Your Writing with Vivid Verbs Sep 23, 2026

Show notes

336 / How can selecting the right verbs and a creative approach to language set your writing apart?

Pulitzer Prize-winning critic and author Sarah L. Kaufman shares her passion for verbs, practical tips for vivid writing, and the grammar lessons she wishes every author embraced.

The power and artistry of verbs in storytelling
How verb choices have evolved from Shakespeare to Hemingway to today
The pitfalls of adverbs and “fancy” verbs
Tips for using active vs. passive voice
Metaphors, deep POV, and making your language memorable

✨ This week’s sponsor is Vellum: www.tryvellum.com/wish

💙 Become a supporter of the podcast https://wishidknownforwriters.com/support or https://wishidknownthenpodcast.substack.com/subscribe

Access to backlist of exclusive supporter episodes
Shoutout on a future episode

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⚡Links:

Sarah L. Koffman sarahlkoffman.com
Vellum: www.tryvellum.com/wish

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Abbie Emmons on on Unlocking Your Creativity and Breaking Free from Rigid Writing Rules Sep 16, 2026

Show notes

335 / Are you curious how to unlock your creativity and make your stories truly matter to both yourself and your readers?

Abbie Emmons dives into the psychology of compelling storytelling, overcoming imposter syndrome, and building a thriving community.

The science behind what makes stories and characters compelling
How to avoid overwhelm and burnout as a writer
Why emotional truth matters more than “write what you know”
Building a vibrant online author community
Breaking free from rigid writing rules and trusting your inner instincts

✨ This week’s sponsor is Vellum: http://tryvellum.com/wish

💙 Become a supporter of the podcast https://wishidknownforwriters.com/support or https://wishidknownthenpodcast.substack.com/subscribe

Access to backlist of exclusive supporter episodes
Shoutout on a future episode

📥 Send us a Text Message

⚡Links:

📥 Send us a Text Message

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Innovative Book Marketing Ideas and Writer Wellness with Susan Neal Sep 09, 2026

Show notes

334 / Susan Neal is a certified writer coach, health and wellness expert, and the author of ten books including How to Sell 1,000 Books a Month. Susan shared actionable advice for writers who want to grow their careers and stay healthy along the way.

Transforming your writing with critique groups and editors
The science behind book marketing and keyword strategies
Why entering contests can change your sales trajectory
Building a website that actually attracts readers
Easy ways for writers to stay healthy and energized

✨ This week’s sponsor is Vellum: http://tryvellum.com/wish

💙 Become a supporter of the podcast https://wishidknownforwriters.com/support or https://wishidknownthenpodcast.substack.com/subscribe

Access to backlist of exclusive supporter episodes
Shoutout on a future episode

📥 Send us a Text Message

⚡Links:

Vellum: http://tryvellum.com/wish
SusanUNeal.com
ChristianPublishers.net
http://Word-Weavers.com
Moz.com
Historical Mystery Day promo: https://dashboard.bookfunnel.com/bundles/board/h9pngjfgl8

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Music Industry Marketing Secrets for Indie Authors with A.B. Jackson Sep 02, 2026

Show notes

333 / What mindsets and practical strategies can transform setbacks into growth for writers—and what really defines success in a creative career?

A.B. Jackson shares how he successfully pivoted from music marketing to writing and publishing fiction and non-fiction. He unpacks the lessons learned from both industries and how he leverages community and personal growth.

Changing limiting beliefs and redefining success
Lessons learned from the music industry
Building authentic connections with readers
Managing criticism and unhelpful advice
Crafting your own marketing approach

✨ This week’s sponsor is Vellum: https://www.tryvellum.com/wish

💙 Become a supporter of the podcast https://wishidknownforwriters.com/support or https://wishidknownthenpodcast.substack.com/subscribe

Access to backlist of exclusive supporter episodes
Shoutout on a future episode

📥 Send us a Text Message

⚡Links:

Vellum: Vellum: http://tryvellum.com/wish
A.B. Williamson: https://www.abjackson.com/
Written Word Podcast about A+ content: https://pod.link/1828995043/episode/Y2QxNDBjZDAtNTI2YS00NGYzLWI5ZjgtY2JmYzU5ZjY0NDM0

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Exploring the Action-Adventure Genre and Writing Sensory Details with Luke Richardson Aug 26, 2026

Show notes

332 / How can you craft vivid, sensory-rich books set in places you’ve never visited while thriving as a modern author?

Action-adventure writer Luke Richardson shares insights on transporting readers around the globe and balancing the art and business of writing.

Incorporating travel and sensory details into fiction
Tips for writing about locations you haven’t visited
Deciding how much personal travel experience to include
The benefits of slowing down production
In-person travel event with readers
Podcasting for readers

✨ This week’s sponsor is Bookfunnel: bookfunnel.com

💙 Become a supporter of the podcast https://wishidknownforwriters.com/support or https://wishidknownthenpodcast.substack.com/subscribe

Access to backlist of exclusive supporter episodes
Shoutout on a future episode

📥 Send us a Text Message

⚡Links:

Bookfunnel: Bookfunnel.com
Luke Richardson: https://www.lukerichardsonauthor.com
Adventure Story Podcast: https://adventurestorypodcast.com/
Jami’s branding workshop: https://www.jamialbright.com/authorworkshops
Wish I’d Known Then podcast on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wiktpod

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Navigating Criticism and Creativity with A.A. Sekhon (New Author Series) Aug 19, 2026

Show notes

331 / How can you balance craft and criticism? How do you know when to take feedback and when to reject it?

A.A. Sekhon shares insights on filtering feedback, writing historical fiction, and staying creative when you don’t feel creative or inspired.

Navigating the difference between writing and marketing skillsets
The role of constructive vs. destructive criticism
Finding your first readers and building review momentum
Leveraging an academic background to enrich storytelling
Why writing for yourself can unlock creative freedom

✨ This week’s sponsor is BookFunnel.com.

💙 Become a supporter of the podcast https://wishidknownforwriters.com/support or https://wishidknownthenpodcast.substack.com/subscribe

Access to backlist of exclusive supporter episodes
Shoutout on a future episode

📥 Send us a Text Message

⚡Links:

A.A. Sekhon: https://assumptionsbook.wordpress.com/purchase/
Book Funnel: BookFunnel.com
Indie Author Magazine article about Sara Rosett: https://indieauthormagazine.com/sara-rosett-shares-how-shes-built-a-cozy-career-in-indie-publishing/

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Kickstarter Mastery for Fiction Authors and Expanding Your Book’s IP through Merchandising with Dana Claire Aug 12, 2026

Show notes

330 / Curious how authors can turn their books and stories into brands and unique products—while actually making the process work for them? Dana Claire shares how she founded The Inkfluence agency and what she’s learned about successful marketing, Kickstarter campaigns, and brand expansion.

-From author to founder: Dana’s journey and the birth of The Inkfluence
-What authors need to know about overseas book production and special editions
-Kickstarter campaign strategies and common mistakes to avoid
-Expanding author IP into collectibles, novelties, and mass market retail
-The power of tracking, simplifying your marketing, and building the right author mindset

✨ This week’s sponsor is Bookfunnel: https://bookfunnel.com

💙 Become a supporter of the podcast https://wishidknownforwriters.com/support or https://wishidknownthenpodcast.substack.com/subscribe

Access to backlist of exclusive supporter episodes
Shoutout on a future episode

📥 Send us a Text Message

⚡Links:

Bookfunnel: https://bookfunnel.com
theINKfluence.com
INKGames.com
Bookmark Bag:https://bycorinemarie.com/
Cover Swap Bag: https://www.instagram.com/reel/Dafk15Fs4ji/
Dana Clari DanaClaireBooks.com

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Audiobook Success with Todd Eflin: Should You Narrate Your Own Book? Aug 05, 2026

Show notes

329 / Have you ever wondered what it takes to narrate or produce an audiobook—and whether you should record your own? Todd Eflin shares insider secrets from his journey as a voice actor, audiobook coach, and narrator, including what authors need to know before jumping into audio.

Common misconceptions about audiobook production
When to produce an audiobook
What authors should consider before narrating their own books
Technical setup basics for home audiobook recording
The five essentials of recording quality audio for authors

✨ This week’s sponsor is Bookfunnel: https://bookfunnel.com

💙 Become a supporter of the podcast https://wishidknownforwriters.com/support or https://wishidknownthenpodcast.substack.com/subscribe

Access to backlist of exclusive supporter episodes
Shoutout on a future episode

📥 Send us a Text Message

⚡Links:

📥 Send us a Text Message

Support the show

Making Content Work Harder: Repurposing Tips for Indie Authors with Matty Dalrymple Jul 29, 2026

Show notes

327 / How can you make one piece of content do more for you? What does it take to juggle fiction, nonfiction, and podcasting? Matty Dalrymple shares tips on how she builds an audience on multiple platforms, collaborates on nonfiction projects, and streamlines her business strategies.