The Indy Author Podcast

Matty Dalrymple, The Indy Author
  • 4.9 (32)
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  • Updated Weekly

The Indy Author Podcast is for writers who are serious about both the craft of writing and the business of publishing — whether you're working toward your first book or building on an established career. Every week, host Matty Dalrymple talks with authors, editors, marketers, and publishing professionals about what's actually working right now. Topics span the full range of the writing life: developing compelling characters and tighter plots, navigating indie and traditional publishing paths, running effective book marketing campaigns, building an author platform, working with AI tools, writing short fiction and memoir, managing the business side of an author career, and much more. With hundreds of episodes in the catalog featuring guests from across the publishing world — from debut authors to bestsellers, indie publishers to Big Five veterans — there's something here for writers at every stage of their journey. Named one of the 10 Best Podcasts for Authors by Dale L. Roberts, and recognized five years running by Writer's Digest as one of the 101 Best Websites for Writers. Hosted by Matty Dalrymple, author, publishing consultant, and founder of The Indy Author platform.

  1. 6h ago

    Turning Life's Plot Twists into a Powerful Memoir with John DeDakis - #359

    Matty Dalrymple talks with John DeDakis about TURNING LIFE'S PLOT TWISTS INTO A POWERFUL MEMOIR, including how a universal theme turns personal memories into a story readers can enter, how a life narrative and timeline reveal pivotal moments, and how beta readers help identify what does not serve the book. We also discuss balancing insight with entertainment, staying truthful when memory is imperfect, and respecting the people whose lives overlap with your own. Interview video at https://tinyurl.com/TIA359YT2 Show notes at https://theindyauthor.substack.com/ (Substack subscribers get exclusive content) If you find the information in this episode useful, please consider supporting The Indy Author! https://substack.com/@mattydalrymple https://theindyauthor.substack.com/ https://www.patreon.com/theindyauthor https://www.buymeacoffee.com/mattydalrymple John DeDakis is a former editor on CNN's "The Situation Room with Wolf Blitzer." DeDakis, a former White House correspondent, is the author of six traditionally published novels in the award-winning Lark Chadwick mystery-suspense-thriller series. DeDakis is a motivational speaker, podcaster, one-on-one writing coach, manuscript editor, and regularly teaches novel and memoir writing at literary centers, bookstores, and writers' conferences nationwide and abroad. He is also a Grief Educator, certified by world-renowned grief expert David Kessler of Grief.com. John's newest book is Plot Twists: A Memoir on Writing and Living. Website: www.johndedakis.com Matty Dalrymple is the author of the Lizzy Ballard Thrillers, beginning with ROCK PAPER SCISSORS; the Ann Kinnear Suspense Novels, beginning with THE SENSE OF DEATH; and the Ann Kinnear Suspense Shorts. She is a member of International Thriller Writers and Sisters in Crime. More at mattydalrymple.com. Matty also writes, speaks, and consults on the writing craft and the publishing voyage, and shares what she's learned on THE INDY AUTHOR PODCAST. She writes nonfiction books for authors; her articles have appeared in Writer's Digest magazine; and she is a Partner Member of the Alliance of Independent Authors. More at theindyauthor.com. She also guides professionals in building their presence through a sideline or second act through her platform From Expertise to Authority. More at theindyauthor.com/authority.

  2. 6h ago ·  Bonus

    You Might Enjoy: On Purpose with Jay Shetty

    Introducing Vinh Giang: How to Communicate So People Actually Listen to You from On Purpose with Jay Shetty. Follow the show: On Purpose with Jay Shetty Communication expert Vinh Giang joins Jay to share practical tools from his first book, Before We Forget How to Connect, to help you become a more confident communicator and build deeper, more meaningful connections. Vinh explains how to become a better listener, avoid common communication mistakes, and speak so people actually pay attention. From sounding confident when you're nervous to speaking up in meetings, navigating difficult conversations, and making a great first impression, Vinh shares simple techniques to help you communicate more effectively and connect with people in every area of your life. With Love and Gratitude, Jay Shetty Instagram Teen Accounts: Built-in protections for teens. JAY'S DAILY WISDOM DELIVERED STRAIGHT TO YOUR INBOX Join 900,000+ readers discovering how small daily shifts create big life change with my free newsletter. Subscribe here: https://news.jayshetty.me/subscribe Check out our Apple subscription to unlock bonus content of On Purpose! https://lnk.to/JayShettyPodcast What We Discuss: 00:00 Introduction 00:25 Before We Forget How To Connect 01:52 The High-Low Buffalo Icebreaker 02:45 Sharing Personal Highs 05:15 Sharing Personal Lows 11:40 Sharing Personal Buffalos 13:40 Escaping Small Talk 16:10 Overcoming Self-Judgment 17:58 Sharing Wins Without Sounding Arrogant 19:50 Communication Beyond The Script 20:40 Gen Z's Communication Struggles 23:20 Last Word, Last Letter Game 27:20 The Four Modalities Of Listening 29:50 The Three Follow-Up Questions Rule 35:50 How Do You Make A Great First Impression? 40:10 Reading the Room, Not Formulas 44:10 Finding Your Unique Voice 49:00 Life As A Book: New Chapters 50:40 Building Executive Presence 53:20 Fix Your Resting Blank Face 58:30 Filming Yourself For Self-Awareness 01:02:20 When Your Mind Goes Blank 01:06:10 The Power Of The Pause 01:09:30 How Can You Sound Confident When You’re Nervous? 01:14:40 From Texting Chemistry to Real-Life Connection 01:18:40 How to Communicate Better During Arguments 01:20:20 Learning to Speak Up In Meetings 01:25:45 How to Join a Conversation Without Feeling Awkward 01:28:20 Leaving A Conversation Gracefully 01:31:4 Embracing Vulnerability Episode Resources: Book | https://vinhgiang.com/before-we-forget-how-to-connect Website | https://vinhgiang.com/ YouTube | https://youtube.com/@askvinh Facebook | https://www.facebook.com/share/1CCPX1ChrP/?mibextid=wwXIfr LinkedIn | https://www.linkedin.com/in/vinhgiang Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices DISCLAIMER: Please note, this is an independent podcast episode not affiliated with, endorsed by, or produced in conjunction with the host podcast feed or any of its media entities. The views and opinions expressed in this episode are solely those of the creators and guests. For any concerns, please reach out to team@podroll.fm.

    You Might Enjoy: On Purpose with Jay Shetty

  3. Oct 20

    Building Connection Through Long-Form Content with Dan Blank - #358

    Matty Dalrymple talks with Dan Blank about BUILDING CONNECTION THROUGH LONG-FORM CONTENT, including why audiences are seeking greater depth, how authors can use long-form and less-polished content to create genuine connection, and why practice matters more than natural ease on camera. We also discuss choosing platforms, finding content in your interests and creative process, and setting personal boundaries that support authenticity without oversharing. Interview video at https://www.youtube.com/@TheIndyAuthorPodcast/podcasts Show notes at https://theindyauthor.substack.com/ (Substack subscribers get exclusive content) If you find the information in this episode useful, please consider supporting The Indy Author! https://substack.com/@mattydalrymple https://theindyauthor.substack.com/ https://www.patreon.com/theindyauthor https://www.buymeacoffee.com/mattydalrymple Dan Blank is the founder of WeGrowMedia, where he helps writers develop their author platforms, connect with readers, and launch their books. He is the author of the book BE THE GATEWAY: A PRACTICAL GUIDE TO SHARING YOUR CREATIVE WORK AND ENGAGING AN AUDIENCE. He has worked with thousands of writers and organizations who support creative people such as Penguin Random House, Sesame Workshop, Hachette Book Group, Writer's Digest, and Library Journal. Matty Dalrymple is the author of the Lizzy Ballard Thrillers, beginning with ROCK PAPER SCISSORS; the Ann Kinnear Suspense Novels, beginning with THE SENSE OF DEATH; and the Ann Kinnear Suspense Shorts. She is a member of International Thriller Writers and Sisters in Crime. More at mattydalrymple.com. Matty also writes, speaks, and consults on the writing craft and the publishing voyage, and shares what she's learned on THE INDY AUTHOR PODCAST. She writes nonfiction books for authors; her articles have appeared in Writer's Digest magazine; and she is a Partner Member of the Alliance of Independent Authors. More at theindyauthor.com. She also guides professionals in building their presence through a sideline or second act through her platform From Expertise to Authority. More at theindyauthor.com/authority.

  4. Oct 13

    Online Community Etiquette for Authors with Dale L. Roberts - #357

    Matty Dalrymple talks with Dale L. Roberts about ONLINE COMMUNITY ETIQUETTE FOR AUTHORS, including how to ask focused questions, respond with empathy, and choose communities that match the kind of help you need. We also discuss moderation, respecting other people's time, and sharing expertise without turning every answer into a sales pitch. Interview video at https://www.youtube.com/@TheIndyAuthorPodcast/podcasts Show notes at https://theindyauthor.substack.com/ (Substack subscribers get exclusive content) If you find the information in this episode useful, please consider supporting The Indy Author! https://substack.com/@mattydalrymple https://theindyauthor.substack.com/ https://www.patreon.com/theindyauthor https://www.buymeacoffee.com/mattydalrymple Dale L. Roberts is a bestselling author, award-winning content creator, and trusted voice in self-publishing. He's written more than 50 books, earned 44 literary awards, and founded the Self-Publishing with Dale YouTube channels, reaching more than 132,000 subscribers. Through his videos, podcast, books, and online community, Dale has helped thousands of authors navigate publishing, marketing, and growing an author business with practical, no-nonsense guidance. Matty Dalrymple is the author of the Lizzy Ballard Thrillers, beginning with ROCK PAPER SCISSORS; the Ann Kinnear Suspense Novels, beginning with THE SENSE OF DEATH; and the Ann Kinnear Suspense Shorts. She is a member of International Thriller Writers and Sisters in Crime. More at mattydalrymple.com. Matty also writes, speaks, and consults on the writing craft and the publishing voyage, and shares what she's learned on THE INDY AUTHOR PODCAST. She writes nonfiction books for authors; her articles have appeared in Writer's Digest magazine; and she is a Partner Member of the Alliance of Independent Authors. More at theindyauthor.com. She also guides professionals in building their presence through a sideline or second act through her platform From Expertise to Authority. More at theindyauthor.com/authority.

  5. Sep 29

    Writing Iconic Characters with Enneagram with Claire Taylor - #355

    Matty Dalrymple talks with Claire Taylor about WRITING ICONIC CHARACTERS WITH ENNEAGRAM, including how core fears and desires shape memorable characters, how to deepen an existing series, and how to build protagonist-and-villain chemistry. We also discuss character growth, choosing meaningful tropes, and planning spinoffs that meet reader expectations. Interview video at https://www.youtube.com/@TheIndyAuthorPodcast/podcasts Show notes at https://theindyauthor.substack.com/ (subscribers get exclusive content) If you find the information in this episode useful, please consider supporting The Indy Author! https://substack.com/@mattydalrymple https://theindyauthor.substack.com/ https://www.patreon.com/theindyauthor https://www.buymeacoffee.com/mattydalrymple Claire Taylor is a humor and mystery author and certified Enneagram practitioner. Through her courses, coaching, and community, she helps authors alchemize fear and master their attention to build sustainable careers aligned with their personal values and dreams. Matty Dalrymple is the author of the Lizzy Ballard Thrillers, beginning with ROCK PAPER SCISSORS; the Ann Kinnear Suspense Novels, beginning with THE SENSE OF DEATH; and the Ann Kinnear Suspense Shorts. She is a member of International Thriller Writers and Sisters in Crime. More at mattydalrymple.com. Matty also writes, speaks, and consults on the writing craft and the publishing voyage, and shares what she's learned on THE INDY AUTHOR PODCAST. She writes nonfiction books for authors; her articles have appeared in Writer's Digest magazine; and she is a Partner Member of the Alliance of Independent Authors. More at theindyauthor.com. She also guides professionals in building their presence through a sideline or second act through her platform From Expertise to Authority. More at theindyauthor.com/authority.

  6. Sep 22

    Social Media Strategy for Authors with Dan Blank - #354

    Matty Dalrymple talks with Dan Blank about SOCIAL MEDIA STRATEGY FOR AUTHORS, including why fragmented platforms need not mean the end of social media, how human stories stand out amid AI-generated content, why simple narratives and imperfect presentation can build trust, how writers can define core messages and learn directly from readers, when to reset an uninspiring feed, and why choosing one comfortable home base—especially a newsletter—creates room to experiment and learn what resonates. Interview video at https://www.youtube.com/@TheIndyAuthorPodcast/podcasts Show notes at https://theindyauthor.substack.com/ (subscribers get exclusive content) If you find the information in this episode useful, please consider supporting The Indy Author! https://substack.com/@mattydalrymple https://theindyauthor.substack.com/ https://www.patreon.com/theindyauthor https://www.buymeacoffee.com/mattydalrymple Dan Blank is the founder of WeGrowMedia, where he helps writers develop their author platforms, connect with readers, and launch their books. He is the author of the book Be the Gateway: A Practical Guide to Sharing Your Creative Work and Engaging an Audience. He has worked with thousands of writers, and amazing organizations who support creative people such as Penguin Random House, Sesame Workshop, Hachette Book Group, Writer's Digest, Library Journal, and many others. You can find Dan on at https://WeGrowMedia.com, his weekly newsletter at https://danblank.substack.com or on social media @DanBlank. Matty Dalrymple is the author of the Lizzy Ballard Thrillers, beginning with ROCK PAPER SCISSORS; the Ann Kinnear Suspense Novels, beginning with THE SENSE OF DEATH; and the Ann Kinnear Suspense Shorts. She is a member of International Thriller Writers and Sisters in Crime. More at mattydalrymple.com. Matty also writes, speaks, and consults on the writing craft and the publishing voyage, and shares what she's learned on THE INDY AUTHOR PODCAST. She writes nonfiction books for authors; her articles have appeared in Writer's Digest magazine; and she is a Partner Member of the Alliance of Independent Authors. More at theindyauthor.com. She also guides professionals in building their presence through a sideline or second act through her platform From Expertise to Authority. More at theindyauthor.com/authority.

  7. Sep 15

    Writing the Stories Only Life Can Teach You with Bruce Robert Coffin - #353

    Matty Dalrymple talks with Bruce Robert Coffin about WRITING THE STORIES ONLY LIFE CAN TEACH YOU, including how Bruce's police career supplied the lived experience behind his fiction, what writers can learn by reading analytically, how mystery authors guide and misdirect readers, the common creative ground shared by writing and painting, and why an unrealized creative dream may simply be waiting for experience and craft to catch up. Interview video at https://www.youtube.com/@TheIndyAuthorPodcast/podcasts Show notes at https://theindyauthor.substack.com/ (subscribers get exclusive content) If you find the information in this episode useful, please consider supporting The Indy Author! https://substack.com/@mattydalrymple https://theindyauthor.substack.com/ https://www.patreon.com/theindyauthor https://www.buymeacoffee.com/mattydalrymple BRUCE ROBERT COFFIN is an international bestselling novelist and retired detective sergeant. He is the author of the Detective Byron Mysteries and Detective Justice series, and co-author (with LynDee Walker) of the Turner and Mosley Files. He has won Killer Nashville's Silver Falchion for Best Procedural and Best Investigator and the Maine Literary Award for Best Crime Fiction, and been a finalist for the Anthony, Agatha, and Barry Awards. Matty Dalrymple is the author of the Lizzy Ballard Thrillers, beginning with ROCK PAPER SCISSORS; the Ann Kinnear Suspense Novels, beginning with THE SENSE OF DEATH; and the Ann Kinnear Suspense Shorts. She is a member of International Thriller Writers and Sisters in Crime. More at mattydalrymple.com. Matty also writes, speaks, and consults on the writing craft and the publishing voyage, and shares what she's learned on THE INDY AUTHOR PODCAST. She writes nonfiction books for authors; her articles have appeared in Writer's Digest magazine; and she is a Partner Member of the Alliance of Independent Authors. More at theindyauthor.com. She also guides professionals in building their presence through a sideline or second act through her platform From Expertise to Authority. More at theindyauthor.com/authority.

  8. Sep 8

    Building AI Trust to Improve Book Discoverability with Meg Casebolt - #352

    Matty Dalrymple talks with Meg Casebolt about BUILDING AI TRUST TO IMPROVE BOOK DISCOVERABILITY, including how AI tools are changing book discovery, why keywords need support from consistent online signals, the value of relevant links and reader recommendations, and why sustained marketing builds more trust than a short promotional spike. Meg also discusses using tropes and trend research to clarify what makes a book distinctive without sanding away the creative edges that make it memorable. Interview video at https://www.youtube.com/@TheIndyAuthorPodcast/podcasts Show notes at https://theindyauthor.substack.com/ (subscribers get exclusive content) If you find the information in this episode useful, please consider supporting The Indy Author! https://substack.com/@mattydalrymple https://theindyauthor.substack.com/ https://www.patreon.com/theindyauthor https://www.buymeacoffee.com/mattydalrymple Meg Casebolt is a romance author, AI discoverability strategist, founder of Love At First Search, creator of Happily Ever Indie, and co-host of the First Dates & Soulmates podcast. Matty Dalrymple is the author of the Lizzy Ballard Thrillers, beginning with ROCK PAPER SCISSORS; the Ann Kinnear Suspense Novels, beginning with THE SENSE OF DEATH; and the Ann Kinnear Suspense Shorts. She is a member of International Thriller Writers and Sisters in Crime. More at mattydalrymple.com. Matty also writes, speaks, and consults on the writing craft and the publishing voyage, and shares what she's learned on THE INDY AUTHOR PODCAST. She writes nonfiction books for authors; her articles have appeared in Writer's Digest magazine; and she is a Partner Member of the Alliance of Independent Authors. More at theindyauthor.com. She also guides professionals in building their presence through a sideline or second act through her platform From Expertise to Authority. More at theindyauthor.com/authority.

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4.9
out of 5
32 Ratings

About

The Indy Author Podcast is for writers who are serious about both the craft of writing and the business of publishing — whether you're working toward your first book or building on an established career. Every week, host Matty Dalrymple talks with authors, editors, marketers, and publishing professionals about what's actually working right now. Topics span the full range of the writing life: developing compelling characters and tighter plots, navigating indie and traditional publishing paths, running effective book marketing campaigns, building an author platform, working with AI tools, writing short fiction and memoir, managing the business side of an author career, and much more. With hundreds of episodes in the catalog featuring guests from across the publishing world — from debut authors to bestsellers, indie publishers to Big Five veterans — there's something here for writers at every stage of their journey. Named one of the 10 Best Podcasts for Authors by Dale L. Roberts, and recognized five years running by Writer's Digest as one of the 101 Best Websites for Writers. Hosted by Matty Dalrymple, author, publishing consultant, and founder of The Indy Author platform.

Information

  • Creator
    Matty Dalrymple, The Indy Author
  • Years Active
    2016 - 2026
  • Episodes
    327
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © William Kingsfield Publishers, LLC. All rights reserved.
  • Show Website
    The Indy Author Podcast

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