The Author Next Door

• Episode 47: Avoid These Author Scams: Protect Your Work and Your Wallet

  🚨 Writers, beware! Not every opportunity is what it seems. In this eye-opening episode of The Author Next Door, Angela Haas and Cassie Newell break down the most common scams targeting indie authors—from shady “review services” to fake book award schemes—and share real experiences to help you stay safe, smart, and empowered in your author journey.They unpack how to spot red flags, protect your creative work, and make informed decisions when investing in marketing or promotions. If you’ve ever received a too-good-to-be-true email about your book… this episode is a must-watch.In this episode they explore:How to spot and avoid author scams in the self-publishing world 🚫Why authentic engagement matters more than paid reviewsThe truth about unsolicited emails offering promotions or representationThe pros and cons of paid promotions and what’s actually worth your moneyWhy book reviews are valuable only when they’re genuineThe power of author communities for staying informed and supportedWhy trusting your instincts is your best line of defense🎧 This episode is your guide to navigating the publishing industry with confidence, clarity, and a healthy dose of skepticism. Because being indie shouldn’t mean being uninformed.Answer In Comments 👇 Have you ever gotten a suspicious “book promotion” email? Tell us your story in the comments!For more info on the Alliance Of Independent Authors click here: https://www.allianceindependentauthors.org/🔔 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 🔑 indie authors, scams, book reviews, promotions, copyright, author community, writing tips, publishing industry, author safety, self-publishing

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• Episode 46: Audiobooks 101: What Indie Authors Should Know Before They Start

  🎧 Thinking about turning your book into an audiobook? In this episode of The Author Next Door, Cassie Newell and Angela Haas sit down with professional narrators Heather Costa and Jeffrey Kafer to break down everything indie authors need to know before taking the leap into audiobook production.They discuss when to make the move, what costs to expect, and how to navigate profit-sharing and royalty models. From budgeting and communication to understanding contracts, this episode is your roadmap to entering the audiobook market with confidence and clarity.In this episode, they explore:When indie authors should consider audiobook production 🎙️How to navigate profit share vs. full rights modelsWhy timing matters—wait until your book is selling wellTips for communicating effectively with your narratorThe potential for profit and growth in the audiobook marketWhether you’re a first-time indie author or expanding your publishing empire, this episode is packed with real-world advice to help you make informed, strategic decisions about bringing your story to life in audio.Answer in comments 👇 Are you planning to turn your book into an audiobook? Tell us what’s holding you back!Where to find Heather and Jeffrey: HighGravityProductions.com🔔 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 🔑 audiobooks, indie authors, production, profit share, rights, advice, self-publishing, indie authors

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• 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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