Finish the Damn Book Podcast

Susie Schaefer
  • 5.0 (4)
  • Arts

Finish the Damn Book is the podcast for writers who know they have a book in them, and are ready to finally get it done. Hosted by Susie Schaefer, publishing expert and Book Doula, this show cuts through perfectionism, overwhelm, and publishing myths to focus on what actually moves a book forward. Through honest conversations with authors, editors, ghostwriters, and industry professionals, Susie explores the mindset, craft, and real-world mechanics of writing, finishing, and publishing books readers actually finish and share. Each episode blends: Writing and revision strategyPublishing and platform insightCreative stamina and mindset shiftsPractical tools for authors at any stage Whether you’re working on memoir, nonfiction, or a book that defies categories, Finish the Damn Book is here to help you stop circling the idea and start delivering the work. Because the world doesn’t need another unfinished manuscript. It needs your finished book.

  1. 6d ago

    Self-Editing, AI & Better Books with Katie Chambers

    Many authors spend years learning how to write, but very few learn how to edit. In this episode, Susie Schaefer talks with editor and educator Katie Chambers about self-editing, working with professional editors, building a stronger manuscript, and the growing role of AI in publishing. Katie shares how she transitioned from teaching English to running a successful editing business, why authors often submit manuscripts too early, and what writers can do to improve their books before hiring an editor. They also discuss: • Why self-editing matters • Common mistakes first-time authors make • Building systems that create creative freedom • The future of self-publishing • AI-generated writing and editing • Why human creativity still matters Connect with Katie Website:  https://beaconpointservices.org Watch the Full Episode https://geni.us/fdb-katie-chambers   Books:  Self-Editing Essentials for Fiction Self-Editing Essentials for Nonfiction Reflection Moment What would happen if you spent more time revising your manuscript than writing the next chapter? Finish the Damn Book Podcast helps aspiring authors, entrepreneurs, creatives, and writers finally complete the book they know they’re meant to write. Hosted by Susie Schaefer, the podcast cuts through perfectionism, writer’s block, overwhelm, and publishing confusion with honest conversations about writing, publishing, book marketing, creativity, and the author journey. Featuring authors, editors, ghostwriters, publishers, writing coaches, and industry professionals, each episode offers practical strategies to help writers finish, publish, and share meaningful books. Topics include:  • Writing and revision tips  • Publishing and self-publishing guidance  • Book marketing and platform-building  • Creativity, confidence, and procrastination  • Encouragement for writers stuck in the messy middle Many episodes close with Susie’s signature “Reflection Moment”, an intuitive conversation exploring creativity, identity, purpose, and the emotional side of becoming an author. Whether you’re writing memoir, nonfiction, business, or personal development, Finish the Damn Book is here to help you trust your voice and finally bring your story to life. Ready to move your book forward?  https://www.finishthebookpublishing.com/

    46 min

  2. May 26

    Your Voice Is Your Brand: Why AI Can’t Replace Authors | David Wolf

    What happens when technology becomes so advanced that it can imitate your voice? In this episode of Finish the Damn Book, Susie Schaefer sits down with David Wolf, founder of Audivita Studios and longtime producer across radio, television, film, podcasts, and audiobooks, to explore one of publishing’s fastest-changing frontiers: audio.  Together they unpack:  • Why audiobooks are no longer optional for many authors  • How podcasting evolved into today’s version of on-demand radio  • The surprising limits of AI-generated voice  • What makes human storytelling impossible to replicate  • How intuition and creativity shape great work  • Why authors should think beyond the manuscript This conversation moves beyond publishing strategy and into something deeper: connection, voice, trust, and the human experience behind the work. If you’ve ever wondered whether AI can replace authors, speakers, narrators, or whether your own voice matters more than ever, this episode is for you. Guest:  David Wolf  Audivita Studios  https://audivita.com/ Subscribe and keep writing… so you can finish the damn book. Finish the Damn Book Podcast helps aspiring authors, entrepreneurs, creatives, and writers finally complete the book they know they’re meant to write. Hosted by Susie Schaefer, the podcast cuts through perfectionism, writer’s block, overwhelm, and publishing confusion with honest conversations about writing, publishing, book marketing, creativity, and the author journey. Featuring authors, editors, ghostwriters, publishers, writing coaches, and industry professionals, each episode offers practical strategies to help writers finish, publish, and share meaningful books. Topics include:  • Writing and revision tips  • Publishing and self-publishing guidance  • Book marketing and platform-building  • Creativity, confidence, and procrastination  • Encouragement for writers stuck in the messy middle Many episodes close with Susie’s signature “Reflection Moment”, an intuitive conversation exploring creativity, identity, purpose, and the emotional side of becoming an author. Whether you’re writing memoir, nonfiction, business, or personal development, Finish the Damn Book is here to help you trust your voice and finally bring your story to life. Ready to move your book forward?  https://www.finishthebookpublishing.com/

    41 min

  3. May 19

    Psychology, Intuition & Writing the Book You’re Meant to Write with Anne Bartolucci, PhD

    What happens when psychology, intuition, creativity, and storytelling collide? In this episode of Finish the Damn Book, Susie Schaefer sits down with Anne Bartolucci, PhD, psychologist, writing mentor, USA Today bestselling author, and founder of Psych Up Academy. Anne shares how she blends psychology, mythology, intuition, and storytelling to help heart-centered entrepreneurs write books that truly connect with readers. From procrastination and imposter syndrome to creativity, spirituality, and even tarot, this conversation explores the deeper emotional and energetic side of writing. In this episode:  Why procrastination is often deeper than “lack of discipline”  The connection between psychology and spirituality  How intuition shapes the writing process  Why nonfiction books need story structure too  The “mushy middle” problem most authors face  Creativity, mythology, past lives & the subconscious mind  Writing advice for authors who feel overwhelmed or stuck This is one of those conversations that reminds you writing a book is never just about the book. Connect with Anne Bartolucci Anne’s Tarot Reading Request Form:  https://forms.gle/UwMpaSN7abs9F1j57 Psych Up Academy:  https://psychupacademy.com Finish the Damn Book Podcast helps aspiring authors, entrepreneurs, creatives, and writers finally complete the book they know they’re meant to write. Hosted by Susie Schaefer, the podcast cuts through perfectionism, writer’s block, overwhelm, and publishing confusion with honest conversations about writing, publishing, book marketing, creativity, and the author journey. Featuring authors, editors, ghostwriters, publishers, writing coaches, and industry professionals, each episode offers practical strategies to help writers finish, publish, and share meaningful books. Topics include:  • Writing and revision tips  • Publishing and self-publishing guidance  • Book marketing and platform-building  • Creativity, confidence, and procrastination  • Encouragement for writers stuck in the messy middle Many episodes close with Susie’s signature “Reflection Moment”, an intuitive conversation exploring creativity, identity, purpose, and the emotional side of becoming an author. Whether you’re writing memoir, nonfiction, business, or personal development, Finish the Damn Book is here to help you trust your voice and finally bring your story to life. Ready to move your book forward?  https://www.finishthebookpublishing.com/

    26 min

  4. May 12

    The Spiritual Side of Writing, Publishing & Imposter Syndrome | Sierra Melcher

    What if the reason you haven’t finished your book has less to do with talent…and more to do with the stories you tell yourself about who you are? In this episode, Susie Schaefer talks with author, educator, and publisher Sierra Melcher about intuition, creativity, imposter syndrome, women’s voices, and the transformational process of becoming a published author. Sierra shares how she went from believing she wasn’t a writer to publishing 19 books and building Red Thread Publishing, a collaborative publishing house devoted to helping authors amplify meaningful stories and create impact. Together, they explore:  • why imposter syndrome never fully disappears  • how community helps writers heal and grow  • the spiritual and emotional side of storytelling  • why writing doesn’t have to feel painful  • trusting intuition in creativity and business  • how anthologies help aspiring authors begin Plus, Susie pulls cards for Sierra and the audience in a powerful conversation about intuition, legacy, and trusting the next step. Connect with Sierra Melcher:  Red Thread Publishing Finish the Damn Book Podcast helps aspiring authors, entrepreneurs, creatives, and writers finally complete the book they know they’re meant to write. Hosted by Susie Schaefer, the podcast cuts through perfectionism, writer’s block, overwhelm, and publishing confusion with honest conversations about writing, publishing, book marketing, creativity, and the author journey. Featuring authors, editors, ghostwriters, publishers, writing coaches, and industry professionals, each episode offers practical strategies to help writers finish, publish, and share meaningful books. Topics include:  • Writing and revision tips  • Publishing and self-publishing guidance  • Book marketing and platform-building  • Creativity, confidence, and procrastination  • Encouragement for writers stuck in the messy middle Many episodes close with Susie’s signature “Reflection Moment”, an intuitive conversation exploring creativity, identity, purpose, and the emotional side of becoming an author. Whether you’re writing memoir, nonfiction, business, or personal development, Finish the Damn Book is here to help you trust your voice and finally bring your story to life. Ready to move your book forward?  https://www.finishthebookpublishing.com/

    45 min

  5. May 5

    Your Book Isn’t the Product, It’s the Pipeline | James Ranson

    Most authors believe once the book is written… everything else will follow. More visibility. More clients. More income. But what if that’s not how it actually works? In this episode of Finish the Damn Book, Susie Schaefer sits down with book marketing and monetization expert James Ranson to break down the missing link between writing your book and actually making money from it. After years on both sides of the industry, as a ghostwriter, editor, and now a strategist, James shares why so many authors struggle to see results, and how to build a system that connects your book directly to your business. If you’ve ever wondered why your book isn’t creating the opportunities you expected… this conversation will change how you think about it. Inside this episode:  Why writing the book is NOT enough  The biggest misconception authors have about success  How to connect your book to a real sales pipeline  Why most books don’t generate income (and how to fix it)  The role of intuition in business decisions  What it really takes to see ROI from your book Connect with James Ranson: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/james-ranson A note for listeners: Stay through the end for a powerful closing reflection, often where the biggest insight connects back to the conversation in unexpected ways. Ready to finish your book? Visit:  https://finishthebookpublishing.com Don’t forget: Subscribe, share, and keep writing, so you can finally finish the damn book. Finish the Damn Book Podcast helps aspiring authors, entrepreneurs, creatives, and writers finally complete the book they know they’re meant to write. Hosted by Susie Schaefer, the podcast cuts through perfectionism, writer’s block, overwhelm, and publishing confusion with honest conversations about writing, publishing, book marketing, creativity, and the author journey. Featuring authors, editors, ghostwriters, publishers, writing coaches, and industry professionals, each episode offers practical strategies to help writers finish, publish, and share meaningful books. Topics include:  • Writing and revision tips  • Publishing and self-publishing guidance  • Book marketing and platform-building  • Creativity, confidence, and procrastination  • Encouragement for writers stuck in the messy middle Many episodes close with Susie’s signature “Reflection Moment”, an intuitive conversation exploring creativity, identity, purpose, and the emotional side of becoming an author. Whether you’re writing memoir, nonfiction, business, or personal development, Finish the Damn Book is here to help you trust your voice and finally bring your story to life. Ready to move your book forward?  https://www.finishthebookpublishing.com/

    31 min

  6. Apr 28

    Your Book Is Your Hook: Turning Your Story Into Opportunity with Jennifer Wilkov

    What if your book isn’t just something you write, but the key that unlocks everything else? In this episode of Finish the Damn Book, Susie Schaefer sits down with publishing expert, speaker, and author Jennifer Wilkov to explore how storytelling becomes the foundation for visibility, opportunity, and long-term impact. From navigating a failed publishing deal to rebuilding a successful book from the ground up, Jennifer shares what it really takes to create a book that works for you, not just on paper, but in your business and your life. This is a powerful conversation for any author who knows they have a story… but wants to make sure it actually reaches the people it’s meant to serve. ✨ Inside this episode:  Why your book is more than a product, it’s a platform What “Your Book Is Your Hook” really means  The truth about writing for trends vs writing with purpose  How to recover from publishing setbacks  The role of intuition in building your author path  What makes a book actually work in the real world Connect with Jennifer Wilkov: Website: https://yourbookisyourhook.com LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/jenniferwilkov ✨ A note for listeners: Stay through the end for a closing reflection, often where the biggest insight shows up and connects back to the conversation in surprising ways. Ready to take the next step? If you're serious about finishing your book, visit:   https://finishthebookpublishing.com Don’t forget:  Subscribe, share, and keep writing, so you can finish the damn book! Finish the Damn Book Podcast helps aspiring authors, entrepreneurs, creatives, and writers finally complete the book they know they’re meant to write. Hosted by Susie Schaefer, the podcast cuts through perfectionism, writer’s block, overwhelm, and publishing confusion with honest conversations about writing, publishing, book marketing, creativity, and the author journey. Featuring authors, editors, ghostwriters, publishers, writing coaches, and industry professionals, each episode offers practical strategies to help writers finish, publish, and share meaningful books. Topics include:  • Writing and revision tips  • Publishing and self-publishing guidance  • Book marketing and platform-building  • Creativity, confidence, and procrastination  • Encouragement for writers stuck in the messy middle Many episodes close with Susie’s signature “Reflection Moment”, an intuitive conversation exploring creativity, identity, purpose, and the emotional side of becoming an author. Whether you’re writing memoir, nonfiction, business, or personal development, Finish the Damn Book is here to help you trust your voice and finally bring your story to life. Ready to move your book forward?  https://www.finishthebookpublishing.com/

    34 min

  7. Apr 21

    Why Your Book, Brand, and Business Must Align (or Nothing Works) with Jenn T. Grace

    What if the reason your book isn’t working… isn’t the book? In this episode of Finish the Damn Book, Susie Schaefer sits down with publishing strategist Jenn T. Grace to unpack one of the most overlooked truths in authorship: 👉 Your book, your brand, and your business must work together. Jenn shares her journey from writing multiple books to building a hybrid publishing company, and how many authors unintentionally create disconnect between their message and their impact. They dive into:  why so many authors feel stuck after publishing  how misalignment affects your book’s success  the difference between self-publishing, hybrid, and traditional models  how to avoid predatory publishing companies  what actually makes a book a powerful business asset If you’ve ever wondered why your book isn’t creating the momentum you expected… this conversation will change how you think about the entire process. JENN T. GRACE CONTACT INFOWebsites: https://publishyourpurpose.comhttps://authorgrowthandimpact.org Books: Publish Your PurposePromote Your Purpose🎧 Listen now and take one step closer to finishing your book with clarity and purpose. 🔗 Listen on all platforms: https://geni.us/fdb-jenn-t-grace Finish the Damn Book Podcast helps aspiring authors, entrepreneurs, creatives, and writers finally complete the book they know they’re meant to write. Hosted by Susie Schaefer, the podcast cuts through perfectionism, writer’s block, overwhelm, and publishing confusion with honest conversations about writing, publishing, book marketing, creativity, and the author journey. Featuring authors, editors, ghostwriters, publishers, writing coaches, and industry professionals, each episode offers practical strategies to help writers finish, publish, and share meaningful books. Topics include:  • Writing and revision tips  • Publishing and self-publishing guidance  • Book marketing and platform-building  • Creativity, confidence, and procrastination  • Encouragement for writers stuck in the messy middle Many episodes close with Susie’s signature “Reflection Moment”, an intuitive conversation exploring creativity, identity, purpose, and the emotional side of becoming an author. Whether you’re writing memoir, nonfiction, business, or personal development, Finish the Damn Book is here to help you trust your voice and finally bring your story to life. Ready to move your book forward?  https://www.finishthebookpublishing.com/

    39 min

  8. Apr 14

    How to NOT Write the Wrong Book (and Actually Use It to Grow Your Business) | Ally Machate

    What if your book isn’t failing because of your writing… but because of your strategy? In this episode of Finish the Damn Book, Susie Schaefer sits down with publishing strategist and former Simon & Schuster editor Ally Machate to break down what most authors get wrong before they ever hit publish. If you’ve ever wondered:  Why some books actually grow a business… and others don’t  Whether you’re writing the right book  Why marketing feels so hard after publishing This conversation will change how you think about the entire process. Ally shares her 4-step framework: Guide → Develop → Publish → Grow and explains why skipping the early stages leads to wasted time, money, and frustration. What You’ll Learn  Why writing a book without a clear goal almost guarantees it won’t sell  The difference between developmental editing vs. copy editing (and why it matters)  Why most authors misunderstand marketing, and how to fix it  How to turn your book into a long-term business asset  The truth about “fast publishing” and AI-written books Key Takeaway 👉 A book is not just something you publish, it’s something you build with intention to create impact, visibility, and growth. Free Resource from Ally Don’t Write the Wrong Book (Free Training)  https://offers.thewritersally.com/finish-the-damn-book Connect with Ally Machate 🌐 https://thewritersally.com Finish the Damn Book Podcast helps aspiring authors, entrepreneurs, creatives, and writers finally complete the book they know they’re meant to write. Hosted by Susie Schaefer, the podcast cuts through perfectionism, writer’s block, overwhelm, and publishing confusion with honest conversations about writing, publishing, book marketing, creativity, and the author journey. Featuring authors, editors, ghostwriters, publishers, writing coaches, and industry professionals, each episode offers practical strategies to help writers finish, publish, and share meaningful books. Topics include:  • Writing and revision tips  • Publishing and self-publishing guidance  • Book marketing and platform-building  • Creativity, confidence, and procrastination  • Encouragement for writers stuck in the messy middle Many episodes close with Susie’s signature “Reflection Moment”, an intuitive conversation exploring creativity, identity, purpose, and the emotional side of becoming an author. Whether you’re writing memoir, nonfiction, business, or personal development, Finish the Damn Book is here to help you trust your voice and finally bring your story to life. Ready to move your book forward?  https://www.finishthebookpublishing.com/

    36 min
See All (54)

5
out of 5
4 Ratings

About

Finish the Damn Book is the podcast for writers who know they have a book in them, and are ready to finally get it done. Hosted by Susie Schaefer, publishing expert and Book Doula, this show cuts through perfectionism, overwhelm, and publishing myths to focus on what actually moves a book forward. Through honest conversations with authors, editors, ghostwriters, and industry professionals, Susie explores the mindset, craft, and real-world mechanics of writing, finishing, and publishing books readers actually finish and share. Each episode blends: Writing and revision strategyPublishing and platform insightCreative stamina and mindset shiftsPractical tools for authors at any stage Whether you’re working on memoir, nonfiction, or a book that defies categories, Finish the Damn Book is here to help you stop circling the idea and start delivering the work. Because the world doesn’t need another unfinished manuscript. It needs your finished book.

Information

  • Creator
    Susie Schaefer
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    54
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Finish the Damn Book Podcast
  • Show Website
    Finish the Damn Book Podcast