Books, Business, & Mindset - A Podcast for Authors

Jen Graybeal Creative Coaching
  • 5.0 (6)
  • BOOKS

Running an author business is so much more than writing. Jen Graybeal (she/her) is a certified creativity coach, educator, and editor that has spent more than ten years helping authors create stories they are proud of and businesses that align with their individual vision of success. She empowers authors through encouraging feedback, collaborative problem solving, and gently-applied tough love. Visit her website for client testimonials at  www.jengraybeal.com or follow her on the socials: @JenTheEditor.

Episodes

  1. 09/04/2025

    The 4Ps of Marketing

    In this episode of the Books, Business, and Mindset Podcast, certified creativity coach Jen Graybeal delves into effective marketing strategies for authors. Focusing on the four Ps—Product, Price, Place, and Promotion—Jen highlights the importance of distinguishing between strategies and tactics. The discussion includes practical tips on diversifying product offerings, setting appropriate pricing, choosing the best sales platforms, and utilizing effective promotional tactics. Listeners also get insights on the significance of newsletters, social media, and events in building a strong marketing plan.  00:00 Introduction to the Podcast 00:23 Understanding Marketing Strategy vs. Tactics 03:38 The Four Ps of Marketing 04:56 Product: More Than Just Books 09:40 Place: Where to Sell Your Books 14:01 Price: Setting the Right Value 17:03 Promotion: Connecting with Readers 38:45 Final Thoughts and Conclusion Work It: A 6- Week Coaching Intensive for Authors Information, registration, testimonials: https://www.jentheeditor.com/work-it Where to find Jen Website: https://www.jentheeditor.com/ All the socials: @jentheeditor Subscribe to Jen's newsletter for Author Marketing and Mental Health tips https://www.jentheeditor.com/subscribe

    41 min

  2. 08/20/2025

    Three Teams Every Author Needs

    In this episode of the Books Business and Mindset Podcast, hosted by creativity coach Jen Graybeal, the focus is on the importance of building three distinct teams crucial for any author's success. Jen emphasizes the collaborative nature of the writing process, debunking the myth of the solitary author. She details the need for support during story development, including sprint groups and critique groups. The discussion extends to the publishing team, covering editors, cover designers, and distribution strategies. Jen also highlights the essential role of a marketing team, offering tips on developing a marketing alliance. The episode is rich with practical advice for authors at all stages of their careers. 00:00 Welcome to the Books Business and Mindset Podcast 00:26 The Three Essential Teams for Authors 01:33 Building Your Writing Team 03:56 The Importance of Critique Groups and Beta Readers 09:56 Assembling Your Publishing Team 13:14 Marketing Strategies for Authors 19:29 Influencer Marketing and Media Kits 30:57 Conclusion and Final Thoughts Mentioned in the episode The Ultimate Guide to Book Marketing by Nicholas Erik Work It: A 6- Week Coaching Intensive for Authors Information, registration, testimonials: https://www.jentheeditor.com/work-it Where to find Jen Website: https://www.jentheeditor.com/ All the socials: @jentheeditor Subscribe to Jen's newsletter for Author Marketing and Mental Health tips https://www.jentheeditor.com/subscribe

    32 min

  3. 08/14/2025

    Planning with Clarity, Confidence, and Focus Part 2

    In this episode of the Books Business and Mindset Podcast, host Jen Graybeal, a certified creativity coach, discusses effective planning strategies for authors. Jen continues from episode six, emphasizing the need for a comprehensive brain dump to organize and manage tasks. She advocates for personalizing the planning process and using action-oriented language to enhance productivity. The episode introduces a six-step planning system designed to provide clarity and confidence. The discussion also highlights the importance of regular review and self-trust in achieving long-term success. 00:00 Introduction and Welcome 00:23 Recap of Previous Episode 01:11 Step-by-Step Planning Process 03:15 Organizing Your Tasks 06:45 Using Action-Oriented Language 13:16 Final Steps and Review 23:52 Conclusion and Farewell Work It: A 6- Week Coaching Intensive for Authors Information, registration, testimonials: https://www.jentheeditor.com/work-it Where to find Jen Website: https://www.jentheeditor.com/ All the socials: @jentheeditor Subscribe to Jen's newsletter for Author Marketing and Mental Health tips https://www.jentheeditor.com/subscribe

    25 min

  4. 08/07/2025

    Planning with Clarity, Confidence, and Focus - Part 1

    In this episode of the Books, Business, and Mindset Podcast, Jen Graybeal, a certified creativity coach, delves into planning and goal setting for authors. She discusses her unique approach to planning that eschews traditional methods like SMART goals and strict schedules, emphasizing flexibility and a personalized system that works for her. Jen introduces her six-step planning system which includes capturing tasks, organizing them, and regularly reviewing progress to reduce anxiety and increase clarity. She touches on the neuroscience behind productivity and offers actionable steps for authors to stay focused and confident in their business and creative pursuits.  00:00 Introduction to the Podcast 00:23 The Importance of Planning and Goal Setting 01:31 Jen's Unique Approach to Goal Setting 04:05 The Neuroscience Behind Productivity 07:15 Introducing Jen's Six-Step Planning System 09:48 Step-by-Step Breakdown of the Planning System 16:55 Final Thoughts and Homework 28:31 Conclusion and How to Connect Work It: A 6- Week Coaching Intensive for Authors Information, registration, testimonials: https://www.jentheeditor.com/work-it Where to find Jen Website: https://www.jentheeditor.com/ All the socials: @jentheeditor Subscribe to Jen's newsletter for Author Marketing and Mental Health tips https://www.jentheeditor.com/subscribe

    29 min

  5. 07/31/2025

    Outsmart Your Inner Critic: Surprising Lessons from the Voices in Your Head

    In this episode of the Books, Business, and Mindset Podcast, hosted by certified creativity coach Jen Graybeal, listeners learn about the impact of negative self-talk and how it affects creativity and productivity. Jen explains how the brain's repetition of negative thoughts leads to deeply ingrained beliefs, resulting in struggles with self-doubt and imposter syndrome. She emphasizes the importance of positive self-talk, neuroplasticity, and mindfulness in overcoming these challenges. Jen provides practical steps for improving self-talk, normalizing mistakes, and building a supportive community. 00:00 Introduction to the Podcast 00:23 The Power of Self-Talk 02:12 The Science Behind Negative Self-Talk 06:57 Rewiring Your Brain with Positive Self-Talk 08:02 Overcoming Discomfort and Embracing Growth 09:34 Practical Tips for Positive Self-Talk 16:15 Conquering Imposter Syndrome 19:11 Concrete Steps to Improve Self-Talk Mentioned in the podcast: The Widow File by S. G. Redling Flowertown by S. G. Redling Pour Decisions by Tobi Doyle  Work It: A 6- Week Coaching Intensive for Authors Information, registration, testimonials: https://www.jentheeditor.com/work-it Where to find Jen Website: https://www.jentheeditor.com/ All the socials: @jentheeditor Subscribe to Jen's newsletter for Author Marketing and Mental Health tips https://www.jentheeditor.com/subscribe

    26 min

  6. 07/24/2025

    Intro to Editors and Different Types of Editing

    Understanding the Role of Editors in the Publishing Process In this episode of the Books, Business, and Mindset Podcast, certified creativity coach Jen Graybeal delves into the crucial role that editors play in the publishing process. Jen explains the different types of editors, including developmental, line, copy, and proofreaders, and their specific functions throughout the stages of writing and publishing. She discusses the differences between traditional and self-publishing, providing insights on how to build an effective publishing team tailored to your needs. Jen also shares her personal journey to becoming an editor and offers advice for new authors on finding the right editor, the importance of having supportive relationships with editors, and the significance of editor feedback. Additionally, the episode highlights the value of beta readers and ARC readers in the revision process.  00:00 Introduction to the Podcast 00:23 Understanding the Role of Editors 02:56 Jen's Journey to Becoming an Editor 13:04 The Editing Process Explained 26:27 Finding the Right Editor for Your Book 34:12 Conclusion and Final Thoughts   Work It: A 6- Week Coaching Intensive for Authors Information, registration, testimonials: https://www.jentheeditor.com/work-it Where to find Jen Website: https://www.jentheeditor.com/ All the socials: @jentheeditor Subscribe to Jen's newsletter for Author Marketing and Mental Health tips https://www.jentheeditor.com/subscribe

    36 min

  7. 07/16/2025

    Mapping a Strategy for Change

    Creating Effective Change Strategies for Authors In this episode of the Books, Business, and Mindset Podcast, host Jen Graybeal, a certified creativity coach, delves into the importance of creating a change strategy for authors. Jen offers detailed insights on strategic thinking, including key steps for forming a change framework. She highlights three critical questions to guide authors in their goals, and introduces the three E's (Experiment, Evaluate, Evolve) to navigate their journey. The episode also features a practical breathing exercise for managing frustration and stress. Listeners are encouraged to focus on their personal goals and to stay flexible, accepting that evolution is part of the journey. 00:00 Introduction to the Podcast 00:23 The Importance of a Change Strategy 03:12 Questions to Guide Your Change Strategy 08:06 Client Testimonials and Program Details 10:47 The Three E's Framework 17:58 Breathing Exercise and Final Thoughts 20:33 Conclusion and Contact Information Mapping a Change Strategy Mini-Workbook - Download this FREE resource: https://www.jentheeditor.com/resources Work It: A 6- Week Coaching Intensive for Authors Information, registration, testimonials: https://www.jentheeditor.com/work-it  Work It: A 6- Week Coaching Intensive for Authors Information, registration, testimonials: https://www.jentheeditor.com/work-it Where to find Jen Website: https://www.jentheeditor.com/ All the socials: @jentheeditor Subscribe to Jen's newsletter for Author Marketing and Mental Health tips https://www.jentheeditor.com/subscribe

    21 min

  8. 07/01/2025

    DIY Developmental Editing

    In this episode of the Books, Business, and Mindset podcast, certified creativity coach Jen Graybeal delves into the intricacies of developmental editing. She outlines the different phases of editing—developmental, line editing, copy editing, and proofreading—and emphasizes the importance of investing in a good developmental editor. Jen provides a comprehensive checklist for evaluating stories, discusses the process of diagnosing and solving story issues, and shares strategies for maintaining focus and creativity during the editing process. She also offers practical advice for troubleshooting plot and character development, ensuring emotional engagement, and brainstorming effectively. Whether you're a seasoned author or just starting, this episode is packed with actionable insights to help you refine your manuscript and elevate your storytelling.   00:00 Introduction to the Podcast 00:24 Understanding Developmental Editing 03:33 The Four Phases of Editing 05:38 Focusing on Developmental Editing 07:39 Mindset and Preparation for Editing 12:58 Plot and Structure Insights 22:44 Character Development and Arc 28:58 Troubleshooting and Brainstorming Techniques 36:16 Conclusion and Final Thoughts Transcript: https://www.jentheeditor.com/s/Ep-02-DIY-Developmental-Editing-Transcript.pdf  Work It: A 6- Week Coaching Intensive for Authors Information, registration, testimonials: https://www.jentheeditor.com/work-it Where to find Jen Website: https://www.jentheeditor.com/ All the socials: @jentheeditor Subscribe to Jen's newsletter for Author Marketing and Mental Health tips https://www.jentheeditor.com/subscribe

    40 min

  9. 07/01/2025

    Facing our Story Issues

    How Neuroscience and Creativity Intersect to Solve Story Issues In this episode, Jen explores the roots of story problems and how external factors like life stressors can impact the creative process. She discusses how various neurochemicals affect motivation and frustration. Through practical advice for overcoming writer's block, this episode encourages writers to reframe negative thoughts and builds on the importance of both mental rest and productive problem-solving techniques. 00:00 Introduction to the Podcast 00:23 Understanding Story Problems Through Neuroscience 03:02 The Creative Process and Emotional Challenges 10:25 Building and Maintaining Creative Muscles 13:33 Practical Tips for Overcoming Creative Blocks 18:06 Filling the Creative Well 25:48 The Importance of Rest and Reflection 26:51 Conclusion and Contact Information Links to stuff Jen talked about... Tobi Doyle: https://tobidoyle.com/ Pre-Order Pour Decisions by Tobi Doyle: https://amzn.to/40LjRbl The Rules of a Rebound by Julie Carver: https://amzn.to/46ub7Ks Filling the Well Workbook: https://www.jentheeditor.com/s/Filling-the-Well-a-workbook-for-creative-professionals.pdf  Transcript: https://www.jentheeditor.com/s/Ep-01-Facing-our-Story-Issues-Transcript.pdf  Work It: A 6- Week Coaching Intensive for Authors Information, registration, testimonials: https://www.jentheeditor.com/work-it Where to find Jen Website: https://www.jentheeditor.com/ All the socials: @jentheeditor Subscribe to Jen's newsletter for Author Marketing and Mental Health tips https://www.jentheeditor.com/subscribe

    30 min
  • 9 Episodes

5
out of 5
6 Ratings

About

Running an author business is so much more than writing. Jen Graybeal (she/her) is a certified creativity coach, educator, and editor that has spent more than ten years helping authors create stories they are proud of and businesses that align with their individual vision of success. She empowers authors through encouraging feedback, collaborative problem solving, and gently-applied tough love. Visit her website for client testimonials at  www.jengraybeal.com or follow her on the socials: @JenTheEditor.

Information