Quill & Kettle: Where Intuition Meets Industry

Allison Martin

Quill & Kettle is an, interview-based podcast about listening to your intuition, rewriting your publishing path, and reclaiming your creative voice. Hosted by story alchemist and brand editor, Allison Martin, each tarot-guided episode explores how writers, editors, designers, and other creative professionals are ditching hustle culture and building intentional publishing careers.

Episodes

  1. 1.5 The Art of Slow and Steady Growth with Serene Heiner

    Mar 24

    1.5 The Art of Slow and Steady Growth with Serene Heiner

    In this episode, Serene Heiner, aka @magicalbooknook, shares her journey through the creative industry, balancing writing, motherhood, fitness, and social media, all while staying true to her authentic self. Discover how movement fuels her creativity, trusting your path even when things are moving so fast around you, and the importance of embracing your unique personality in your author and content creator journey. You can follow Serene on Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube Chapters 00:00 Balancing Creativity and Family Life 02:18 The Importance of Movement for Creativity 05:22 Exploring the Dichotomy of Humour and Darkness in Writing 08:05 Navigating Writer's Block and Creative Flow 10:50 The Process of Writing and Emotional Healing 14:04 The Journey of Traditional vs. Self-Publishing 19:14 Concluding Thoughts on Writing and Community 26:20 The Evolution of Publishing: Traditional vs. Self-Publishing 34:13 Finding Your Path: The Journey of a Writer 40:41 Embracing the Creative Process: Trusting Your Instincts 46:56 Breaking Free from Writing Norms: Individual Paths to Success 52:41 Navigating Social Media as an Author 56:14 Finding Your Unique Voice on Social Media 01:01:43 The Balance of Social Media and Personal Comfort 01:04:05 Bookstagram and TikTok 01:09:40 Handling Negativity and Trolls Online 01:17:21 Understanding Reader Perspectives and Reviews 01:21:58 Legal and Ethical Considerations in Podcasting You know I love Flodesk for all my email and membership needs! It is creative, intuitive, and women-owned, which are top tier qualities in my book. You can get 25% off your first year and use Flodesk Forms for free using my link

    1h 23m
  2. 1.4 Building Genuine Connections as an Author with Kandi Steiner

    Mar 10

    1.4 Building Genuine Connections as an Author with Kandi Steiner

    Whether you're an aspiring author or a seasoned writer feeling the weight of judgment, Kandi Steiner and Allison Martin share transformative insights that can change how you approach your craft—and your life. Discover how embracing imperfection, leaning into vulnerability, and rewriting your own narrative can elevate your storytelling and your confidence. Imagine shedding the fear of external validation and reconnecting with why you started writing in the first place. Kandi Steiner, a USA Today bestselling author renowned for her emotionally charged stories and fearless voice, reveals how she navigates the complexities of self-doubt, societal expectations, and artistic integrity. From crafting flawed but relatable characters to building genuine connections with readers without sacrificing your boundaries, Kandi offers practical advice and profound truths. You'll discover: Why the most powerful story you can tell is your own and how to infuse it with raw authenticityHow to balance vulnerability and boundaries in cultivating a loyal, engaged communityThe importance of understanding and knowing your characters intimately—down to their deepest fears and desiresWhy embracing cyclical growth, not perfection, fuels sustainable creativityHow mental and emotional health intertwine with story development and career resilience If you're tired of the noise around "success" and ready to define it for yourself, tune in for a candid, inspiring conversation that encourages you to own your journey—flaws, growth, and all. Guest Kandi Steiner is a bestselling romance author known for her emotional, gritty stories that challenge societal norms. She champions genuine human connection and authenticity in her work and life, inspiring countless readers and writers alike. Whether you're struggling with imposter syndrome, looking to nurture a loyal fanbase, or simply need a reminder of why you write, this episode will reignite your passion and remind you that your most valuable asset is your true self. kandisteiner.com instagram.com/kandisteiner tiktok: @authorkandisteiner I have been using Vellum for years to design and format my eBooks, Paperbacks and Hardcover editions. As a graphic designer, their user-friendly, professional format shaved hours off my to-do lists without sacrificing aesthetics. Only available for Mac OS. *This is an affiliate link, which means I get a small cut of profit from Vellum, but that cost is not transferred to you, the consumer. I only promote things that I love and use in my own health, wellness, or creative journey.

    1h 47m
  3. 1.3 Trusting the Creative Process with Designer/Photographer Regina Wamba

    Mar 3

    1.3 Trusting the Creative Process with Designer/Photographer Regina Wamba

    Regina Wamba shares her journey from artist to successful book cover designer and educator. We discuss the nuances of visual storytelling, market research, and empowering authors to create authentic, compelling covers. Discover how her multi-passionate approach and insights into genre blending, mystery, and emotional tone can elevate your publishing game. In this inspiring conversation, we explore the essence of creativity, the importance of intuition, and how to overcome procrastination and analysis paralysis. They share personal stories, insights on divine timing, and practical tips to reconnect with your innate creative power. Chapters 00:00 Navigating the Challenges of Stock Photography 02:34 Creating Exclusive Content for Authors 04:07 The Importance of Emotion in Design 06:53 Marketing Strategies for Self-Publishing 10:01 The Role of Curiosity in Book Covers 12:49 Balancing Control and Collaboration in Design 20:40 The Art of Visual Storytelling 24:15 Understanding Author-Designer Collaboration 26:06 The Importance of Author Input 30:04 Finding the Right Tone for Your Cover 32:11 Embracing Genre Blending 33:44 Empowering Others Through Education 36:31 Navigating the Design Industry 44:07 Market Research as a Foundation for Success 49:17 The Importance of Tone and Authenticity in Creativity 51:17 Crafting for Yourself vs. Following Trends 54:25 Passion as the Driving Force Behind Success 57:37 Overcoming Analysis Paralysis in Creative Projects 01:00:46 Listening to Intuition vs. External Pressures 01:03:17 The Journey of Creation and Personal Challenges 01:08:04 Embracing Spirituality in Creative Expression 01:14:17 The Power of Collaboration in Creativity 01:15:26 Understanding Divine Timing in Creative Processes 01:16:36 The Journey of Writing and Finding Your Voice 01:18:14 Trusting the Creative Process 01:19:12 Balancing Nurturing and Striving in Creativity 01:20:13 The Art of Visual Storytelling 01:21:27 The Challenge of Originality in Creativity 01:23:11 Reconnecting with the Source of Creativity 01:26:00 The Impact of Technology on Creative Expression 01:28:37 Creating a Container for Prompted Creativity 01:36:08 Introduction to Quill and Kettle Podcast 01:36:53 Legal and Ethical Considerations in Podcasting Website - https://reginawamba.com The Image Apothecary - https://theimageapothecary.com/ You know I love Flodesk for all my email and membership needs! It is creative, intuitive, and women-owned, which are top tier in my book. You can get 25% off your first year and use Flodesk Forms for free using my link - https://flodesk.com/c/QUILLS

    1h 39m
  4. 1.2 The Healing Power of Dark Romance with Willow Winters

    Feb 24

    1.2 The Healing Power of Dark Romance with Willow Winters

    In this episode, Willow Winters shares how she transitioned from writing stories to creating a thriving dark romance empire, emphasizing the importance of authenticity and self-trust in her journey. We explore her innovative publishing strategies, mental health advocacy, and maintaining creative balance amidst life's chaos. Willow Winters Post Checklist Is it dignified? Is it logical, easy to read and follow?Is there a hopeful call to action?Is it posted in good faith?Are you adding something to the conversation that is worthwhile? Don’t offer a lecture to a person who needs a hug & don’t use your own hurt as an excuse for hurting others. We don’t want to show them the fire, we want to show them where the exit is so we can all get out alive.  Timestamps 00:00 The Journey to Self-Publishing04:19 Finding Balance in Writing and Life09:29 The Importance of Dark Romance14:14 Creative Process and Writing Techniques19:16 Navigating the Publishing World24:08 Using Social Media Responsibly28:12 The Role of Authors in Society30:37 Exploring Personal Experiences in Writing33:14 The Impact of Dark Themes in Literature36:38 Coping Mechanisms and Creative Expression38:46 Kickstarter: A Platform for Authors43:14 Experimentation and Audience Engagement46:53 The Evolution of Marketing Strategies50:04 Delegation and Team Dynamics in Writing01:00:40 Exploring Small Town Romance01:01:02 The Art of Storytelling and Character Development01:01:14 Introduction to the Quill and Kettle Podcast01:01:19 Legal and Ethical Considerations in Tarot Willow Winters WebsiteKickstarter Campaign - Blacklight EditionsInstagramFacebook This episode is guided by a five-card tarot spread focusing on justice, love, confidence, and inner knowing—encouraging you to trust your creative authority and embrace your unique path. For a deeper dive into this spread, join the Athenaeum. I have been using Vellum for years to design and format my eBooks, Paperbacks and Hardcover editions. As a graphic designer, their user-friendly, professional format shaved hours off my to-do lists without sacrificing aesthetics. Only available for Mac OS. *This is an affiliate link, which means I get a small cut of profit from Vellum, but that cost is not transferred to you, the consumer. I only promote things that I love and use in my own health, wellness, or creative journey.

    1h 2m

About

Quill & Kettle is an, interview-based podcast about listening to your intuition, rewriting your publishing path, and reclaiming your creative voice. Hosted by story alchemist and brand editor, Allison Martin, each tarot-guided episode explores how writers, editors, designers, and other creative professionals are ditching hustle culture and building intentional publishing careers.