Writer Unblocked

Nicole Opdenbosch
  • 5.0 (1)
  • HOW TO
  • UPDATED WEEKLY

Writer Unblocked is the go-to podcast for authors ready to elevate their craft, conquer mindset blocks, and navigate the ever-changing world of publishing with confidence. Hosted by Nicole Op Den Bosch—publishing executive, author coach, and audiobook expert—this show goes beyond the basics, delivering high-level insights from bestselling authors, literary agents, publishing insiders, and industry powerhouses. Whether you’re an aspiring writer or a seasoned author, you'll gain actionable strategies to refine your writing, master book marketing, and scale your author career. If you're serious about success—whether in traditional publishing, self-publishing, or audio—this podcast is your shortcut to the knowledge and network that will get you there. Tune in and unlock the next level of your writing career with Writer Unblocked. For more information please visit writerunblockedpodcast.com Want to buy me a coffee? https://buymeacoffee.com/reignitewithnicole Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  1. 2025-11-13

    #033: From Disney Dreams to Dark Romance

    Bria Rose went from Disney cast member to self-published dark romance author—and now she’s releasing her audiobook narrated by none other than Jacob Morgan. In this episode, we talk about: How Disney shaped her storytelling instinctsThe origin of Her Dark Promise (a Beauty & the Beast retelling where Belle is the beast)Working with a professional editor and designing a standout coverBooking Jacob Morgan & Grace Noble for the audiobookHow she landed book signings at Barnes & Noble (as an indie author!)What’s next: a spicy Pinocchio novella and a secret project with HarperCollins’ One More Chapter imprint 🎧 Buy Her Dark Promise audiobook 📘 Buy the Kindle or paperback 🛍️ Grab the merch For more information about Writer Unblocked please visit writerunblockedpodcast.com. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    48 min

  2. 2025-10-30

    #032: How Authors Can Unlock Creativity and Build a Brand Promise

    In this episode of Writer Unblocked, I sit down with award-winning author Carol Van Den Hende to explore how letters can unlock creativity, why empathy and hope are essential in storytelling, and how authors can think about their brand as a promise. Carol also shares her journey from traditional publishing to founding her own B Corp press, and what it really means to publish responsibly. We talk about: How the epistolary format sparked seven chapters in one weekendThe neuroscience of empathy between writers and readersWhy authors should celebrate book clubs and community feedbackThe difference between publishing for access and publishing with responsibilityDefining author brand beyond logos and colors About Carol Van Den Hende: Carol is the author of the award-winning Goodbye Orchid trilogy and the forthcoming Dear Orchid (Nov 11, Veteran’s Day). Her books have been named most-anticipated reads by Buzzfeed, Parade, and Travel+Leisure, and praised by Glamour and Woman’s World. Through her writing, speaking, and leadership, Carol champions stories of resilience, hope, and empathy. Connect with Carol: 🌐 Website: carolvandenhende.com 📸 Instagram: @carolvandenhende 📘 Facebook: Carol Van Den Hende Author ▶️ YouTube: @authorcv 🎵 TikTok: @carolvandenhende 📝 Substack: cvdh.substack.com 🔗 Linktree: linktr.ee/cvdh For more information about Writer Unblocked please visit writerunblockedpodcast.com. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    51 min

  3. 2025-10-23

    #031: Elegant Success for Authors: The Power of a Publishing Plan

    In this episode of Writer Unblocked, Nicole talks with author, publisher and former CFO Kirsten Marion, who shares how she turned midlife reinvention into a thriving indie publishing career. They dive into: Why her fantasy series centers a 60-year-old heroineHow to plan a publishing schedule like a proSmart marketing lessons from book one vs. book twoThe real value of email lists and evergreen contentThe meaning of “Elegant Success” for authors Learn more about Kirsten Marion → [kirstenmarion.com] Check out the Rowanswood Crones series https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0FTC7GN46 Download The Empire Checklist → https://nicole-opdenbosch.mykajabi.com/empire-checklist For more information about Writer Unblocked please visit writerunblockedpodcast.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    44 min

  4. 2025-10-21

    #030 Publicity vs Marketing for Authors with Dr. Rhonda Lawson

    In this episode of Writer Unblocked, host Nicole Op Den Bosch sits down with author, publicist, and literary entrepreneur Dr. Rhonda Lawson to unpack the misunderstood difference between publicity and marketing, explore ethical AI use for writers, and discuss why every entrepreneur needs a book. 🎧 Listen now and discover why visibility starts with strategy, not sales. Resources & Links: Dr. Rhonda Lawson’s Website: https://www.mtwimagesolutions.com/Nicole’s Free Empire Checklist For more information about Writer Unblocked please visit writerunblockedpodcast.com. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    57 min

  5. 2025-10-02

    #029: Why Email Lists (Not Algorithms) Are an Author’s Greatest Asset

    In this episode of Writer Unblocked, I sit down with trial attorney and debut author Brad Elder, whose legal thriller Recoil of Justice tackles AI, espionage, and the ethical gray areas of the courtroom. We talk about: Brad’s unexpected leap into writing (1 week from idea to page!)Why he chose self-publishing—and how he learned the entire industry himselfEmail lists, marketing mistakes, and platform choicesHis upcoming audiobook release and follow-up novel Core of Truth 📚 Grab Brad’s book: https://bradeldernovels.com 📸 Follow him: Instagram: @brad.elder.novels Facebook: @Brad Elder Novels For more information about Writer Unblocked please visit writerunblockedpodcast.com. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    43 min

  6. 2025-09-25

    #028: Why I Broke Up with Consistency

    In this episode of Writer Unblocked, Nicole shares her personal discovery of Human Design and how learning she is a Manifestor changed everything about how she works, creates, and coaches authors. For years she thought something was “wrong” with her because she couldn’t maintain consistency. Human Design revealed that her energy comes in waves and that honoring these cycles is the key to sustainable creativity. If you’ve ever struggled with consistency, burnout, or feeling like you’re not disciplined enough, this episode will help you reframe your wiring and embrace the way you’re designed to work. Resources & Links: 📚 Recommended Books on Human Design:  Informed: The Comprehensive Guide To Human Design Manifestors Understanding Human Design: The New Science of Astrology: Discover Who You Really Are The Human Design Workbook: A Step by Step Guide to Understanding Your Own Chart and How it Can Transform Your Life 👉 Connect with Nicole on Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/reignitewithnicole/ For more information about Writer Unblocked please visit writerunblockedpodcast.com. May contain affiliate links. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    19 min

  7. 2025-09-11

    #027: TL McCoy on Inclusive Fantasy, Indie Success & AI Marketing

    TL McCoy didn’t plan to write a middle-grade fantasy novel. But when she learned that only 3.4% of children’s books feature disabled protagonists, and her own granddaughter was diagnosed with Dravet Syndrome, Delilah Versus the Ghastly Grim was born. In this powerful episode of Writer Unblocked, TL shares how she: Pivoted from a psychological thriller to inclusive children’s fictionSelf-published like a pro earning awards and bestseller statusUsed AI to create a full-scale marketing plan with promo videos and streaming adsTurned personal heartbreak into a story of strengthStays unblocked with walks, music, and radical purpose You’ll also hear our honest take on AI’s role in publishing, from marketing help to creative red flags. Links: Book: Delilah Versus the Ghastly GrimWebsite: www.blueroundbookgroup.comInstagram: @blue_round_book_group_llcYouTube: Blue Round Book Group For more information about Writer Unblocked please visit writerunblockedpodcast.com. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    47 min

  8. 2025-08-28

    #026 Dr. Rod Berger on The Narrative Edge

    How do you tell your story in a way that truly connects? In this episode of Writer Unblocked, I sit down with Dr. Rod Berger—global interviewer, communication architect, and author of The Narrative Edge—to explore how storytelling shapes not just our books, but our identities as authors. Rod has interviewed over 4,000 people worldwide, from Pope Francis to NBA legend Magic Johnson and F1 Champion Jenson Button. With his debut book releasing November 12, he shares why storytelling isn’t just a writing skill—it’s a tool for self-worth, connection, and building an authentic author brand. We talk about: Why so many authors hesitate to share their personal storyHow authenticity can transform you and your brandThe vulnerability and self-worth behind writing (and publishing)What Rod learned from interviews across the globe and how it shaped his bookWhy every author should think strategically about formats—from print to audiobooks If you’ve ever wondered whether your story really matters, this conversation will remind you: owning your narrative is your most powerful asset. 📚 Pre-order Dr. Rod Berger’s The Narrative Edge (available November 12) 🎧 Listen now and discover how to leverage storytelling in your own author journey Resources & Links: Learn more about Rod: drrodberger.comPre-order The Narrative Edge wherever books are sold For more information about Writer Unblocked please visit writerunblockedpodcast.com. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    50 min
See All (33)

Ratings & Reviews

About

Writer Unblocked is the go-to podcast for authors ready to elevate their craft, conquer mindset blocks, and navigate the ever-changing world of publishing with confidence. Hosted by Nicole Op Den Bosch—publishing executive, author coach, and audiobook expert—this show goes beyond the basics, delivering high-level insights from bestselling authors, literary agents, publishing insiders, and industry powerhouses. Whether you’re an aspiring writer or a seasoned author, you'll gain actionable strategies to refine your writing, master book marketing, and scale your author career. If you're serious about success—whether in traditional publishing, self-publishing, or audio—this podcast is your shortcut to the knowledge and network that will get you there. Tune in and unlock the next level of your writing career with Writer Unblocked. For more information please visit writerunblockedpodcast.com Want to buy me a coffee? https://buymeacoffee.com/reignitewithnicole Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Information

  • Creator
    Nicole Opdenbosch
  • Years Active
    2024 - 2025
  • Episodes
    33
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Nicole Opdenbosch
  • Show Website
    Writer Unblocked