Inside Publishing’s High-Stakes Reality: What Writers Need to Know
Send us a textIn this Ask Beth & Lisa episode, Beth and Lisa discuss one of the most active conversations happening among writers: the growing concern about how the publishing industry treats debut and midlist authors. They share personal experiences, hard-won insights, and reflections from the larger writing community. The result is an honest, validating look at how traditional publishing functions today—and what writers can do to protect themselves.WHAT WE TALK ABOUT • When Saying “No” to a Book Deal Is the Right Choice Lisa shares the full story behind a recent offer, why she passed, and what writers should consider before signing anything.• Debut Pressure and the “Bad Track” Problem How unrealistic expectations are shaping careers and why many authors feel set up to fail.• The Industry-Wide Debate About Publishing’s Risk Model A deeper look at the ongoing discussion about whether the system prioritizes gambles over careers.• Orphaned Books, Vanishing Support, and Internal Realities Beth and Lisa unpack how books lose champions and what that means for authors.• The Rise of Indie, Hybrid, and Small Press Publishing Why alternative publishing paths are more viable—and more respected—than ever.• What Might Fix the System (If Anything) A candid conversation about realistic change and what authors can control right now.KEY TAKEAWAYS FOR WRITERS • Trust your instincts—if a deal feels wrong, walking away is valid and healthy. • Debut performance follows you, even when the outcome is out of your control. • Many great writers are shifting into indie and hybrid spaces for more agency. • A long-term writing career rarely looks linear, and that’s okay.RESOURCES MENTIONED • Recent industry essays and think pieces addressing systemic publishing issues • Ongoing discussions across social media and the writing community • Indie and hybrid publishing options for midlist authorsCONNECT + BONUS MATERIAL • Please leave a review—it truly helps! • Subscribe to the Writers With Wrinkles newsletter: WritersWithWrinkles.net • Check out new bonus episodes, including first-pages critiques and craft extras. Crew CollectiveA podcast about the wild, weird, and deeply human side of cosmic storytelling.Listen on: Apple Podcasts Support the show Visit the WebsiteWriters with Wrinkles Link Tree for socials and more!
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BONUS: How to Write Funny Books With Heart: Adam Rosenbaum on Middle Grade Craft
Send us a textIn this bonus episode of Writers With Wrinkles, Beth and Lisa talk with Adam Rosenbaum about how he blends laugh-out-loud comedy with emotionally meaningful storytelling. Writers will learn how humor lowers a reader’s defenses, why kids crave funny books, and how to handle heavy topics without overwhelming young readers.Guest BioAdam Rosenbaum is the author of The Ghost Rules and the upcoming illustrated series Lawson History Stumbling Through Time (Sourcebooks, 2027). A former sawmill operator and draftsman, he now writes heartfelt, funny middle grade fiction in Nashville, where he lives with his family. Instagram: @rosenbaumwritesKey Discussion PointsWhy humor helps kids engage with challenging themesHow Amblin-era storytelling shaped Adam’s voiceWriting comedy without talking down to readersLetting humor open space for grief, empathy, and emotional truth“Backpack books”: the titles kids reread and carry everywhereHandling heavy topics with care and clarityAdam’s upcoming time-travel adventure seriesConclusionAdam reminds writers that humor isn’t a lesser art—it’s a bridge. When paired with heart and honesty, it helps kids navigate big feelings while keeping them invested in the story.🎧 Subscribe & ConnectSubscribe, rate, and review Writers With Wrinkles wherever you listen. Send questions to writerswithwrinkles.net or find us on Instagram @writerswithwrinkles. Crew CollectiveA podcast about the wild, weird, and deeply human side of cosmic storytelling.Listen on: Apple Podcasts Support the show Visit the WebsiteWriters with Wrinkles Link Tree for socials and more!
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What Editors Really Look For, with Alison Romig: First Pages, Comps, and Connecting with Readers
Send us a textEpisode Summary In this episode of Writers With Wrinkles, Beth and Lisa talk with Alison Romig, Associate Editor at Delacorte Press, about middle grade and YA fiction. Aspiring authors will gain insight into what editors look for in first pages, how to use comps effectively when pitching, and how to navigate the ever-evolving publishing landscape—especially in middle grade.Guest Bio Alison Romig is an associate editor at Delacorte Press, where she edits middle grade and young adult fiction. Since joining Delacorte in 2019, she’s worked with New York Times bestselling authors Lindsay Curry and Catherine Quinn, among others. A lifelong fan of horror, she lives in Brooklyn, New York.Key Discussion PointsHow horror became Alison’s lifelong reading passion—and why the genre is having a major momentWhat makes a first line or first page irresistible to editorsThe hidden power of accurate comps in query letters and what they reveal about your audienceCommon mistakes in submissions (and why most novels start in the wrong place)Balancing multiple POVs and keeping the story cohesiveThe editor–author relationship: collaboration vs. prescription in editorial feedbackHow sales track and market “weirdness” factor into acquisitions—especially for middle grade authorsAlison’s top wishlist item: horror romance, from chilling to cozyConclusionThis episode reminds writers that a strong editorial partnership is built on trust, open communication, and shared creative vision. Whether you’re writing middle grade, YA, or exploring new genres, Alison’s insights demystify the submission process and empower authors to craft stories that truly connect with readers—and maybe even give them a good scare. Crew CollectiveA podcast about the wild, weird, and deeply human side of cosmic storytelling.Listen on: Apple Podcasts Support the show Visit the WebsiteWriters with Wrinkles Link Tree for socials and more!
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Nail Your First Page: Real Critiques from Publishing Pros
Send us a textWant to watch the video? Click here.Episode Summary In this Ask Beth & Lisa episode of Writers With Wrinkles, Beth and Lisa dive into first-page critiques, offering real-time feedback on listener-submitted rom-com and middle grade openings. Aspiring authors will gain insight into what makes a first page hook an editor—and what doesn’t.Guest Bio No guest this week—just your favorite co-hosts offering expert feedback, writerly wisdom, and a behind-the-scenes look at their creative process.Key Discussion Points • Why first pages matter more than ever in today’s publishing landscape • Rom-Com critique: Bohemian Girl in Ruins – balancing snark and heart, setting tone, and why emotional vulnerability matters • Craft insights: Using voice, internal conflict, and pacing to create immediate reader engagement • Middle Grade critique: Liam Calloway and the Cosmic Conspiracy – voice authenticity, anchoring in-scene emotion, and hooking readers fast • Red flags in opening pages—over-describing, passive language, and missing stakes • Foreshadowing, genre expectations, and how to revise for connection, not just cleverness • Sneak peek into Beth and Lisa’s video podcast debut and future live retreat plansConclusion This episode reminds writers that capturing attention on page one is both art and strategy. Whether you're polishing a rom-com or drafting a middle grade novel, grounding your character, tightening the prose, and creating emotional stakes are key to making your manuscript stand out.Links & Resources • Submit your first page: https://writerswithwrinkles.net • Instagram: @writerswithwrinklesSubscribe & Connect Don’t miss future episodes! Subscribe, rate, and review Writers With Wrinkles wherever you listen. Submit questions for “Ask Beth and Lisa” or sign up for our newsletter at writerswithwrinkles.net and join us on Instagram @writerswithwrinkles. Crew CollectiveA podcast about the wild, weird, and deeply human side of cosmic storytelling.Listen on: Apple Podcasts Support the show Visit the WebsiteWriters with Wrinkles Link Tree for socials and more!
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How to Build a Lasting Author-Agent Relationship, with Agent Leslie Zampetti
Send us a textIn this episode of Writers With Wrinkles, Beth and Lisa welcome literary agent Leslie Zampetti for an honest and insightful conversation about what makes a successful author-agent relationship. From red flags to communication tips, aspiring authors will gain clarity on how to choose the right agent and navigate the business side of publishing.Guest BioLeslie Zampetti is a literary agent with Open Book Literary, representing fiction and select nonfiction for children and adults. She champions underrepresented voices, especially disabled writers, and brings deep experience as a former librarian and writer. Connect with Leslie on Instagram and Twitter @LiteraryLeslieZ or visit www.openbooklit.com.Key Discussion PointsWhat agents look for in long-term author relationshipsRed flags and green flags when evaluating literary agentsWhat authors should ask before signing with an agentHow to handle communication breakdowns or ethical concernsWhy pivoting genres (like from middle grade to cozy mystery) can reignite creativityHow to know if your manuscript is ready to queryThe value of writing community and peer feedbackThe emotional and professional impact of publishing delays and burnoutConclusionThis episode is packed with actionable advice for writers navigating the intimidating world of literary representation. Leslie Zampetti pulls back the curtain on the agenting process, giving listeners a real-world look at what agents value, how decisions are made, and how writers can position themselves for long-term success. Whether you're querying your first book or considering a genre shift, this conversation will leave you empowered and informed.Links & ResourcesLeslie’s website: www.openbooklit.comInstagram/Twitter: @LiteraryLeslieZLeslie’s Query Submission Link: QueryTracker - Leslie ZampettiMentioned Resources:Association of American Literary Agents (AALA)Kate Allen Fox – Scratching the SurfaceApples & Honey Press🎧 Subscribe & ConnectDon’t miss future episodes! Subscribe, rate, and review Writers With Wrinkles wherever you listen. Submit your questions for “Ask Beth and Lisa” at writerswithwrinkles.net or follow us on Instagram @writerswithwrinkles. Crew CollectiveA podcast about the wild, weird, and deeply human side of cosmic storytelling.Listen on: Apple Podcasts Support the show Visit the WebsiteWriters with Wrinkles Link Tree for socials and more!
Authors Beth McMullen and Lisa Schmid iron out the wrinkles in writing, publishing, and everything in between . . . One podcast at a time. Writers With Wrinkles is the go-to podcast for aspiring authors, and those in the trenches, who want to successfully publish a novel...or ten! Join us each week as we dive deep into writing and the publishing industry, providing expert interviews, insightful discussions, and practical tips. With our engaging and informative format, you'll get the guidance you need to navigate the complex world of publishing. Start your journey today!Visit www.WritersWithWrinkles.net for more info.
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