Books & Such Literary Management The Podcast

Books & Such Literary Management
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Welcome to the Books & Such Podcast. We're helping you read between the lines of publishing. Our experienced literary agents invite you into their world for a discussion that pulls back the curtain on how agents think and what we're looking for. Each episode, we'll discuss a hot topic you've always wondered about. If you're pursuing or considering Christian publishing, the Books & Such podcast is for you. As literary agents, we'll help you maximize your knowledge and equip you to confidently take the next steps in your writing journey.

  1. 1d ago

    Inside the Publisher's Chair - A Conversation with Mark Rice, Kregel Publications (Part 2)

    We're back with the second half of our conversation with Mark Rice, publisher and senior marketing director at Kregel Publications. If you haven't listened to Part 1 yet, start there — we've linked it in the show notes below. In this episode, Mark delivers some of his most practical and candid advice yet, covering book titling, the often-overlooked sales team, AI in publishing, and the three things he'd tell every author before they leave the room.   In this episode you'll learn:   Mark's titling pet peeve! He shares the two rules every author needs to know before naming their book What you need to know about a publisher's sales team and how you can make their job easier. Mark's strong warning for authors using AI tools with their manuscripts (don't miss this) What Kregel is celebrating right now: 80+ years as an independent publisher, new leadership, and a refreshed vision Mark's three final pieces of wisdom for every author at every stage

    31 min

  2. May 6

    Inside the Publisher's Chair - A Conversation with Mark Rice, Kregel Publications (Part 1)

    What does a publisher actually do? And what does it take for a book—or an author—to get a "yes"? This week, host Barb Roose sits down with Mark Rice, publisher and senior marketing director at Kregel Publications, for a candid look at the business of Christian publishing from the inside out. With more than 40 years in publishing, Mark brings a wealth of perspective on what makes books succeed, what separates good publishing from great publishing, and why a well-crafted publishing plan is the foundation for everything. He also shares the story behind two books he's especially proud of—a story that just might give hope to writers who've heard "no" too many times.   In this episode you'll learn: Why publishers work from a publishing plan, and what that means for you as an author Why Mark says "publishers don't create demand, we amplify it" The #1 misconception authors have about marketing (hint: it starts way before your launch) What Mark actually looks for in an author's platform—and why big follower counts can be deceiving   Mentioned in this episode: · Imagine Heaven by John Burke (Baker Books) · The Nature of Rest by Erin Lynam (Kregel Publications) · Kregel Publications — kregel.com · Books and Such Literary Management — booksandsuch.com   Connect with Books and Such: Website: booksandsuch.com Instagram: @booksandsuch Podcast archive: booksandsuch.com/podcast   New episodes drop the first Wednesday of every month.

    32 min

  3. Apr 1

    The Do's and Don'ts of Being a Professional Author

    Want to be taken seriously as an author? In this episode, the Books & Such agents share three essential do's and don'ts that separate hobby writers from true professionals—and what it really takes to build a lasting writing career. In today's episode, the Books & Such team dives into what it truly means to show up as a professional author—not just someone who writes when inspiration strikes. If you've ever wondered why some writers gain traction in traditional publishing while others stall out, this conversation offers a candid, behind-the-scenes look at what agents actually look for. We're breaking it down into three essential do's and three critical don'ts—practical, honest, and rooted in years of industry experience.

    26 min

  4. Mar 4

    5 Reasons Agents Won't Read Your Whole Query (And How to Fix Them)

    Ever wonder why your query received a form rejection… or no response at all? In this candid and surprisingly fun conversation, Books & Such agents pull back the curtain on what really happens inside an agent's inbox. Jen, Barb, Cynthia, and Debbie share the most common query mistakes that immediately make agents pause—or stop reading altogether. From overly long emails to industry misunderstandings and accidental professionalism red flags, this episode offers practical insight to help writers present their work clearly, confidently, and professionally. If you're preparing to query agents, this episode may save your submission before you hit send.

    23 min

  5. Feb 4

    Should You Give Up On Traditional Publishing?

    In this episode, the Books & Such agents tackle one of the most emotionally loaded questions in a writer's journey: Should I give up on traditional publishing? Join Books & Such Literary Management agents Jen, Cynthia, and Barb for answers to the most commonly asked questions around why traditional publishing takes so long - and should you give up? They answer three commonly asked questions and share about how you can develop the perseverance and endurance for the journey. Pursuing book publishing offers an invitation to personal growth and faith. They discuss why delay isn't necessarily denial and they encourage you to push through the tough spots toward your goals. This episode offers reassurance, clarity, and a grounded perspective for writers who are questioning their next step in the traditional publishing journey. Connect with Us! Books & Such Literary Management: booksandsuch.com Follow us on Instagram: @booksandsuch Listen on: Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Audible | iHeartRadio New episodes release the first Wednesday of each month. Find our full archive at booksandsuch.com under the Resources tab.

    25 min
  6. Publishing in 2026: Janet Grant on Trends, Calling, and the Future of Christian Publishing

    Jan 7

    Publishing in 2026: Janet Grant on Trends, Calling, and the Future of Christian Publishing

    In this episode of the Books & Such Literary Podcast, host Jen Babakhan sits down with agency founder and publishing veteran Janet Grant to talk about where publishing is headed in 2026. With decades of experience as an editor, agent, and industry innovator, Janet shares insights on emerging trends, shifting market realities, and the opportunities authors should be paying attention to now. From the rise of Bible-centered publishing and creative genre mashups to bookstore growth, AI concerns, and career strategy, this conversation offers wisdom and clarity for both aspiring and established authors navigating a rapidly changing publishing landscape. Whether you're an aspiring writer, a multi-book author, or simply curious about the future of publishing, this episode offers thoughtful perspective, practical wisdom, and a hopeful vision for what's ahead.   Books & Such Writing Intensive | February 10-12, 2026 - click here for more information. Follow us on Instagram: @booksandsuch Watch Us on YouTube! New episodes release the first Wednesday of each month. Find our full archive at booksandsuch.com/podcast under the Resources tab.

    22 min
  7. The Best Investments for Authors: Websites, Coaching, Social Media & More

    12/03/2025

    The Best Investments for Authors: Websites, Coaching, Social Media & More

    In this episode of the Books & Such podcast, our agents dive into a question almost every writer wrestles with: What should I actually spend money on as an author? Should you hire an editor? When should you get help with your social media? What does your website truly need—and what's a waste of money? And is attending a writers conference a valuable investment or a drain on your time and resources? We're giving you the inside scoop on all of it. Whether you're unpublished, contracting your next book, or maintaining a multi-book career, this episode will help you make wise, strategic, and sustainable decisions as you steward both your calling and your resources. In This Episode: When hiring social media help makes sense (and why buying followers never does) When to invest in a freelance editor (and when to might harm your career) What every author needs on their website (and why simple beats flashy) How to know if a writers conference is worth your money this year   Mentioned in This Episode Books & Such Literary Management: booksandsuch.com Follow us on Instagram: @booksandsuch Listen on: Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Audible | iHeartRadio New episodes release the first Wednesday of each month. Find our full archive at booksandsuch.com/podcast under the Resources tab.

    24 min
  8. What NOT to Say as a Writer (and Why It Matters for Your Career)

    11/05/2025

    What NOT to Say as a Writer (and Why It Matters for Your Career)

    In This Episode, You'll Learn: Why venting about editors, authors, or agents can hurt your reputation How to respond to publishing frustrations with maturity and grace What editors and publishers look for on your social media Why quoting others without permission can cause serious problems How to protect your credibility and future writing relationships Key Takeaways "Publishing is a small world—your words travel farther than you think." "Maturity in your response protects your reputation and your calling." Mentioned in This Episode Books & Such Literary Management: booksandsuch.com Follow us on Instagram: @booksandsuch Listen on: Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Audible | iHeartRadio Release Schedule New episodes release the first Wednesday of each month. Find our full archive at booksandsuch.com/podcast under the Resources tab.

    25 min
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5
out of 5
17 Ratings

About

Welcome to the Books & Such Podcast. We're helping you read between the lines of publishing. Our experienced literary agents invite you into their world for a discussion that pulls back the curtain on how agents think and what we're looking for. Each episode, we'll discuss a hot topic you've always wondered about. If you're pursuing or considering Christian publishing, the Books & Such podcast is for you. As literary agents, we'll help you maximize your knowledge and equip you to confidently take the next steps in your writing journey.

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