The Author Next Door

• Episode 45: November Kickoff: The Costs of Being an Indie Author

  🎙️ Writing the book is just the beginning—let’s talk about what it really costs to be an author. In this eye-opening episode of The Author Next Door, Cassie Newell and Angela Haas dive into the hidden expenses of the writing life, from the tangible costs of publishing and advertising to the emotional toll authors rarely discuss.They unpack both the traditional and self-publishing sides of the industry, exploring how to make smarter financial choices and build a sustainable author career that aligns with your goals not just your wallet.In this episode they explore:The hidden costs behind writing, publishing, and marketing your book 💸The trade-offs of self-publishing—more control, but more responsibilityHow advertising and promo expenses can add up fast (and what to prioritize)The rise of direct-to-reader sales and what it means for indie authorsWhy sharing financial wins can unintentionally discourage other writersBuilding a reader community that sustains your long-term successHow knowing your “why” can help you navigate publishing choices with confidenceThis episode is a candid, numbers-meet-narrative look at what it takes to build a writing career that lasts.Answer in comments 👇 What’s been your biggest surprise about the “real” costs of being an author?🔔 Subscribe for more! ➡  https://www.youtube.com/@TheAuthorNextDoor    🎙️For More About The Author Nextdoor ➡ https://theauthornextdoor.com/   🗺️ Other places to find us and connect:    ANGELA HAAS Choose your own adventure  🚀💕  https://ahaaswrites.com/    CASSIE NEWELL Romance 🩷 https://ckdarling.com/   Young Adult 🧚  https://authorcmnewell.com/   Writing Coach 📚  https://www.sassywritingcoach.com/     ℹ️ Keywords 🔑 author costs, self-publishing, traditional publishing, marketing, reader engagement, indie authors, book pricing, advertising, writing community

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• Episode 44: Writing Romance with Dyslexia and Determination with Ivan Scott

  🎙️ Seven Romance Books. One dyslexic author. A journey defined by humor, heart, and perseverance.In this episode of The Author Next Door, Angela Haas and Cassie Newell sit down with romance author Ivan Scott, who shares his remarkable story of becoming a published writer while navigating the challenges of dyslexia—and how it ultimately shaped his creativity, storytelling, and voice.They explore:Ivan’s inspiring journey from rejection to publication (and what 303 “no’s” taught him)How dyslexia influences his writing process and creativity ✍️What it’s like to write romance as a male author—and the responsibility that comes with itCrafting relatable, emotionally resonant characters that readers connect withThe role of observation and empathy in developing authentic relationships on the pageWhy patience and life experience make you a better storytellerHow to view rejection as redirection in your writing careerThe joy of writing stories that preserve memories and celebrate loveIvan’s thoughts on exploring new genres and deeper themes in future projectsThis episode is a heartfelt reminder that no matter the obstacles—whether dyslexia, rejection, or self-doubt—every writer has a voice worth sharing.👇 What’s one challenge you’ve faced in your writing journey, and how did it make you stronger?Where to find Ivan Scott 👉 https://ivanscottbooks.com/This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.Support 🔊  @myNoiseDotNet   https://mynoise.net/   A great resource for sounds to help you write! 🔔 Subscribe for more! ➡  https://www.youtube.com/@TheAuthorNextDoor    🎙️For More About The Author Nextdoor ➡ https://theauthornextdoor.com/   🗺️ Other places to find us and connect:    ANGELA HAAS Choose your own adventure  🚀💕  https://ahaaswrites.com/    CASSIE NEWELL Romance 🩷 https://ckdarling.com/   Young Adult 🧚  https://authorcmnewell.com/   Writing Coach 📚  https://www.sassywritingcoach.com/     ℹ️ Keywords 🔑 writing, dyslexia, romance, male authors, humor, character development, rejection, publishing, storytelling, creativity, indie authors

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• Episode 43: Writing, Publishing and the Successful Author Mindset with J.D. Barker

  🎙️ Authors can’t just write in a alone in a cabin, they have to mix it up. In this episode of The Author Next Door, Angela Haas and Cassie Newell sit down with bestselling author JD Barker to unpack what it really takes to succeed in today’s publishing world—from mastering your mindset to understanding the business behind the books.We explore:How to overcome the post–first book slump and stay motivatedWhy mindset and persistence are your biggest creative toolsThe reality of hybrid publishing and what it means for author freedomWhy you can’t separate writing from marketing anymore 📚💡The art of thinking differently in a crowded industryHow collaboration can elevate your craft (if done right)The value of querying agents—even if you’re indie or hybridCommon myths about authorship and what the writing life really looks likeThe importance of saying “no” and managing your creative energyThis is a must-watch episode for writers ready to treat their craft like a career—and take control of their creative future.Answer in Comments 👇 What’s the best author advice you've ever received? Where to find J.D. 👉 https://jdbarker.com/Support 🔊  @myNoiseDotNet   https://mynoise.net/   A great resource for sounds to help you write! 🔔 Subscribe for more! ➡  https://www.youtube.com/@TheAuthorNextDoor    🎙️For More About The Author Nextdoor ➡ https://theauthornextdoor.com/   🗺️ Other places to find us and connect:    ANGELA HAAS Choose your own adventure  🚀💕  https://ahaaswrites.com/    CASSIE NEWELL Romance 🩷 https://ckdarling.com/   Young Adult 🧚  https://authorcmnewell.com/   Writing Coach 📚  https://www.sassywritingcoach.com/     ℹ️ Keywords 🔑 writing, publishing, mindset, collaboration, hybrid publishing, author advice, marketing, J.D. Barker, creativity, book promotion, self-publishing, indie authors

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• Episode 42: Book Brush: Finding Joy in Helping Authors with Kathleen Sweeney

  🎙️ Marketing doesn’t have to be overwhelming—especially when you have the right tools. In this episode of The Author Next Door, Cassie Newell and Angela Haas sit down with Kathleen Sweeney, COO of Book Brush, to talk all things author marketing, AI tools, and the evolving relationship between writers and readers.They explore:How author-reader relationships are changing—and how to make them work for youThe journey behind Book Brush and how it’s shaped by real author feedbackSimple ways to use Book Brush to level up your marketing gameWhy marketing is a long game (and how to make it sustainable)How translation services and virtual assistants can help expand your reach and save timeThe launch of Author Anchor and the new resources it offersWhether you’re just getting started or deep in the publishing grind, this episode is packed with tools, encouragement, and insider advice to help you grow with confidence.Answer in comments👇 What’s one marketing tool or trick that’s worked for you lately?Helpful Links: https://bookbrush.com/https://authoranchor.com/Support 🔊  @myNoiseDotNet   https://mynoise.net/   A great resource for sounds to help you write! 🔔 Subscribe for more! ➡  https://www.youtube.com/@TheAuthorNextDoor    🎙️For More About The Author Nextdoor ➡ https://theauthornextdoor.com/   🗺️ Other places to find us and connect:    ANGELA HAAS Choose your own adventure  🚀💕  https://ahaaswrites.com/    CASSIE NEWELL Romance 🩷 https://ckdarling.com/   Young Adult 🧚  https://authorcmnewell.com/   Writing Coach 📚  https://www.sassywritingcoach.com/     ℹ️ Keywords 🔑 Book Brush, Kathleen Sweeney, author marketing, social media, AI in publishing, translation services, virtual assistance, author community, marketing strategies, indie authors, self-publishing 

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• Episode 41: Writing Cozy Queer Fantasy with JP Rindfleisch IX

  🎙️ What happens when you bring queerness, coziness, and real representation into fantasy writing? In this heartfelt episode of @theauthornextdoor, Cassie Newell and Angela Haas sit down with JP Rindfleisch IX, award-winning author of queer cozy fantasies, to talk about writing with authenticity, transitioning into full-time authorship, and the power of community in a creative career.In this episode they explore:JP’s journey into writing and the leap to becoming a full-time authorThe enduring appeal of cozy mysteries and why they matter now more than everThe importance of queer representation in genre fiction 🏳️‍🌈How sensitivity readers help writers build trust and authenticityNavigating negative feedback with grace and self-trustThe emotional impact of writing stories that reflect lived experiencesWhy community and connection are essential for sustainable creativityThis episode is a warm, honest conversation for writers who want to tell meaningful stories and readers who crave cozy, inclusive fiction that makes them feel seen.👇 What cozy mystery (or character) made you feel at home?Where to find JP: https://shop.jprindfleischix.com/Support 🔊  @myNoiseDotNet   https://mynoise.net/   A great resource for sounds to help you write! 🔔 Subscribe for more! ➡  https://www.youtube.com/@TheAuthorNextDoor    🎙️For More About The Author Nextdoor ➡ https://theauthornextdoor.com/   🗺️ Other places to find us and connect:    ANGELA HAAS Choose your own adventure  🚀💕  https://ahaaswrites.com/    CASSIE NEWELL Romance 🩷 https://ckdarling.com/   Young Adult 🧚  https://authorcmnewell.com/   Writing Coach 📚  https://www.sassywritingcoach.com/     ℹ️ Keywords 🔑 queer cozy fantasy, writing journey, full-time author, cozy fantasy, community in writing, diverse characters, sensitivity readers, LBGTQ+ representation 

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