Today’s episode, we are privileged to hear and learn from author and editor, Charla Ayers. This episode we dive into Charla’s journey in celebration of her recently released novel, Shrike. We get to hear about her process, how skills as an editor bleeds into her own writing and her insight on the industry. This was such a fantastic conversation and I know you will learn so much from Charla. Happy listening!Charla’s current read: The Knight and The Moth by Rachel GilligWhere you can find more of Charla:Website: https://charlaayers.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/charlaayers/?hl=en
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Connecting w/ Charlotte Balogh
In this episode we are honored to learn and hear from screenwriter and author Charlotte Lillie Balogh. Charlotte’s journey to publication was such a unique and inspiring experience. From starting in television writing where the idea for Kill The Lax Bro originally started as a TV pilot to it being picked up by her editor to be turned into her debut YA novel. Charlotte was such a joy to talk to as she really dove into her journey, the people that stood by her and the odds she beat. I can’t wait for y’all to learn from Charlotte the way I was so lucky to. Happy listening!Charlotte’s current read:A Cruel Thirst by Angela MontoyaWhere you can find more of Charlotte:Website: https://www.charlottelillie.com/aboutInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/charlottelilliebalogh/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@charlottelilliebalogh?is_from_webapp=1&sender_device=pc
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Connecting w/ Logan Karlie
Today on The Wannabe Author, we were BLESSED to listen to NYT bestselling author, Logan Karlie. I’ve had the pleasure of getting to know Logan over the last year and what a gem she is. Originally, Logan self-published her debut, Dream By The Shadows, in September of 2023 then re-released traditionally in Aug 2025. This gorgeous, gothic fantasy quickly made its way onto the NYT bestsellers list and we get a little glimpse into the rollercoaster journey Logan went through to get this book to where it is now.So excited for y’all to listen and be inspired by this incredible author! Happy listening! Logan’s current reads:Starchaser by R.M GrayThe Wicked Sea by Jordan Stephanie GrayImmortal Consequences by I.V MarieWhere you can find more of Logan:Website: https://www.logankarlie.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/authorlogankarlie/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@authorlogankarlie?is_from_webapp=1&sender_device=pc
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Connecting w/ Alexandra D’Amico
Here on The Wannabe Author we have been privileged to hear from a wide range of guests, spanning from indie/trad authors, debuts to industry veterans and bestsellers. But today’s episode is special because for the first time on the podcast we get to hear from a literary agent. I was connected with Alex through one of her clients first. After many praises and kind words this client shared with me about Alex, I knew I needed to get her on the pod and I am so glad I did. Alex offered fabulous insight regarding the perspective of the agent, advice for querying authors and words of encouragement. I am so excited for y’all to listen to this episode and fall in love with Alex the way I did. Happy listening!Alex’s current read:Shrike by Charla Ayers Where you can find more of Alex:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/alexmico/?hl=enRights Factory Agency: https://www.therightsfactory.com/Agents/alexandra-d'amico
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Connecting w/ Sara Phoebe Miller
Today we are privileged to learn from author and editor, Sara Phoebe Miller. I can’t correctly put into words the the insight I gathered from listening to Sara explain her journey to working in editing at DC Comics for 13 years, then now as the Editorial Director of BOOM! Studios and how it influenced her journey to publishing her debut graphic novel, You Belong Here. Sara is not only a wealth of knowledge but an incredible inspiration for chasing down a dream. Her journey was a roller coaster but her resolve to get her novel out there was steady and it was an honor to have her share it here on The Wannabe Author. I can’t wait for you to listen and get to know Sara the way I got to. Happy listening!Sara’s current read:Coffeeshop in an Alternate Universe by CB LeeWhere you can find more of Sara:Website: https://www.saraphoebemiller.com (https://www.saraphoebemiller.com)Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/saraphoebee/ (https://www.instagram.com/saraphoebee/)
Ever wonder what it really takes to go from zero to published? Join me, Taryn, as I navigate the messy, exhilarating and often frustrating journey of becoming an author— without any prior experience. Each episode dives into books, breaks down the craft of writing, explores mental health, and shares valuable lessons I’ve learned through trial and (so much) error. With interviews featuring authors, mental health professionals, and readers, The Wannabe Author offers fresh, unfiltered look at the world of storytelling and publishing. Tune in— it’s a damn good time!
New Zealand