Just Write Julie

Julie Navickas
  • 5.0 (1)
  • Books
  • Updated Monthly

Just Write Julie is the writing podcast where craft meets strategy. Each episode helps writers strengthen the work on the page—and learn how to position it, communicate about it, and advocate for it with clarity and confidence. Most writing podcasts stay in one lane. This one brings three together—craft, career, and communication—through conversations with authors, editors, marketers, and storytellers who know talent is only the beginning. If you want to write better and be more strategic about how you share your work, this show is for you.

Episodes

  1. Aug 5

    Selling Books Face-to-Face: How Authors Can Win at In-Person Events with Mark Love

    Episode Overview In Episode 8 of Just Write Julie, host Julie Navickas sits down with award-winning mystery author Mark Love to discuss one of the most effective—and often overlooked—ways authors build lasting readership: selling books in person. While many writers focus heavily on social media and online marketing, Mark shares why festivals, craft fairs, and community events remain some of the most powerful opportunities to connect with readers face-to-face. Drawing on years of experience attending author events across the Midwest, he offers practical advice on everything from creating memorable book pitches to designing an inviting booth and turning casual conversations into loyal readers. Together, Julie and Mark explore how communication—not hard selling—is the foundation of successful book marketing, why understanding your audience matters, and how authentic relationships often lead to far greater success than a single sale. Whether you're preparing for your very first signing or looking to improve your results at your next event, this episode is packed with practical strategies you can immediately put into practice. What You'll Hear in This Episode From Reporter to Novelist Mark reflects on how his years as a journalist shaped both his storytelling and his ability to connect with readers through meaningful conversations. Why In-Person Events Still Matter In a digital world, Mark explains why festivals, craft fairs, and community events continue to be some of the best places for authors to grow their audience. Selling Without Feeling "Salesy" Practical advice for starting conversations with potential readers in a genuine, comfortable way that builds trust instead of pressure. Crafting the Perfect Book Pitch Mark shares how he developed unique pitches for each of his books and what makes a compelling thirty-second description that captures a reader's attention. Matching the Right Book to the Right Reader Learn how asking the right questions—and listening carefully—helps authors recommend stories readers are most likely to love. Communication Is Marketing Julie and Mark discuss why strong communication skills often outperform expensive advertising when it comes to building a loyal readership. Common Mistakes New Authors Make at Events From sitting behind the table to missing opportunities for conversation, Mark shares the habits that can limit success—and the simple changes that make a big difference. Creating an Inviting Booth Discover how thoughtful displays, signage, and an approachable presence encourage readers to stop, browse, and start conversations. Choosing the Right Festivals Not every event delivers the same return. Mark explains how he evaluates opportunities and decides which festivals are worth the investment. Finding Author-Friendly Events Looking for your next signing? Mark recommends resources like Zapplication.org and FestivalNet.com to help authors discover quality festivals and book events. Success Beyond Sales The biggest victories often happen after the event ends. Mark shares why building relationships, meeting future readers, and creating lasting connections matter even more than the day's sales totals. Key Takeaways for Writers In-person events remain one of the most effective ways to build a loyal readership. Great conversations sell more books than high-pressure sales tactics. Every book deserves a clear, memorable pitch tailored to its audience. Listening is one of an author's most valuable marketing skills. An inviting booth and approachable attitude encourage meaningful reader interactions. Choosing the right events is just as important as attending them. Long-term reader relationships often provide greater value than immediate book sales. Guest Spotlight: Mark Love Mark Love is an award-winning mystery author and former journalist whose years covering crime and community news helped shape the authentic voice behind his novels. He is the author of the Jamie Richmond Mysteries and the Jefferson Chene Mysteries, along with several standalone works. A familiar face at book festivals and community events, Mark has built a reputation not only for his compelling stories but also for his approachable style and ability to connect with readers one conversation at a time. You can learn more about Mark at: https://www.motownmysteries.com/  About the Show Just Write Julie is the podcast where writing meets strategy and creativity meets clarity. Each episode helps writers strengthen both their craft and their confidence through conversations with authors, publishing professionals, creatives, and industry experts. Listen & Subscribe Follow and subscribe to Just Write Julie on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and YouTube. If this episode helped you rethink how authors can market books through genuine conversation, share it with a fellow writer preparing for their next festival, signing, or author event. For writing resources, publishing insights, behind-the-scenes content, and author updates, visit AuthorJulieNavickas.com and connect with Julie on social media. Until next time: just write—and remember, every conversation has the potential to create your next reader.

  2. Jul 18 ·  Video

    There Isn't One Road to Publishing: Inside Small Press Publishing with Melissa Keir

    Episode Overview In Episode 7 of Just Write Julie, host Julie Navickas sits down with award-winning romance author, publisher, and CEO of Inkspell Publishing, Melissa Keir, for an honest conversation about one of the most misunderstood paths in the publishing industry: small press publishing. Many aspiring authors believe there are only two options when pursuing publication—landing a deal with one of the Big Five publishers or publishing independently. Melissa shares why the reality is far more nuanced and how independent publishers provide a collaborative, professional alternative that can be the perfect fit for many writers. Together, Julie and Melissa discuss what publishers are really looking for, the business realities of being an author, the importance of finding the publishing path that aligns with your goals, and why success should never be measured by someone else's journey. Whether you're querying agents, considering self-publishing, researching small presses, or simply curious about how the publishing industry works, this episode offers valuable insight into today's evolving publishing landscape. What You'll Hear in This Episode From Author to Publisher Melissa shares how a lifelong love of storytelling eventually led her to launch Inkspell Publishing and support other authors in bringing their stories to life. Building Inkspell Publishing A behind-the-scenes look at the early days of creating an independent publishing house and the challenges—and rewards—of growing a collaborative publishing company. The Publishing Path That Doesn't Get Enough Attention Why small press publishing fills an important space between traditional publishing and self-publishing, and how authors can determine which path best fits their goals. Debunking Small Press Myths Melissa addresses common misconceptions about independent publishers and explains what writers often misunderstand about the publishing process. What Publishers Really Look For It's more than a great manuscript. Melissa discusses the qualities that make authors stand out and what helps create successful long-term publishing partnerships. Publishing Is Still a Business An honest conversation about why today's authors need to think beyond writing and embrace the business side of building a successful career. Building Strong Author-Publisher Relationships Julie and Melissa discuss why communication, collaboration, and shared expectations are essential to a healthy publishing experience. Defining Success on Your Own Terms Every author's career looks different. Melissa shares why comparison can become one of the biggest obstacles to enjoying the publishing journey. The Future of Publishing From industry trends to emerging opportunities, Melissa offers her perspective on where independent publishing is headed in the years ahead. One Final Piece of Advice Melissa leaves listeners with an encouraging reminder that there is no single "right" way to become a published author. Key Takeaways for Writers There is no one-size-fits-all publishing path. Small press publishing offers a collaborative alternative between traditional and self-publishing. A successful publishing career requires both creativity and business thinking. Publishers invest in authors—not just manuscripts. Healthy communication strengthens the author-publisher relationship. Comparing your publishing journey to someone else's only distracts from your own goals. Success should be defined by your personal vision—not industry expectations. Guest Spotlight: Melissa Keir Melissa Keir is an award-winning and bestselling romance author and the CEO of Inkspell Publishing. As both an author and publisher, she has helped more than eighty writers bring their books into the world while building a collaborative publishing home focused on supporting authors throughout every stage of the publishing journey. Through Inkspell Publishing, Melissa continues to champion compelling storytelling, strong author relationships, and the belief that there are many successful paths to becoming a published writer. About the Show Just Write Julie is the podcast where writing meets strategy and creativity meets clarity. Each episode helps writers strengthen both their craft and their confidence through conversations with authors, publishing professionals, creatives, and industry experts. Listen & Subscribe Follow and subscribe to Just Write Julie on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and YouTube. If this episode helped you see publishing in a new light, share it with a writer who may be wondering which publishing path is right for them. For writing resources, publishing insights, behind-the-scenes content, and author updates, visit AuthorJulieNavickas.com and connect with Julie on social media. Until next time: just write—and remember, your publishing journey doesn't have to look like anyone else's.

  3. Jun 28

    Back to the Basics of Storytelling with Lily Navickas

    Episode Overview In Episode 6 of Just Write Julie, host Julie Navickas welcomes her youngest—and perhaps most imaginative—guest yet: her daughter, Lily Navickas. While the publishing world often focuses on editing, marketing, and book launches, every great story begins somewhere much simpler: with curiosity and imagination. Through the perspective of a fourth-grade storyteller, Julie and Lily explore the foundational elements of storytelling that writers of every age often forget. From creating memorable characters and building imaginative worlds to understanding why conflict matters and what makes readers keep turning the page, Lily offers refreshingly honest insights that remind us storytelling isn't about following complicated rules—it's about asking "What if?" Whether you're an aspiring author, a seasoned novelist, an educator, or simply someone who loves stories, this conversation serves as a reminder that the heart of storytelling never changes. What You'll Hear in This Episode Why We Love Stories Lily shares what draws her to stories and why imagination continues to inspire the worlds she creates. Where Story Ideas Come From A conversation about finding inspiration in everyday life, favorite books, movies, and the endless possibilities of imagination. The Spark That Starts Everything Julie and Lily discuss those exciting moments when a single idea suddenly feels like the beginning of an entire story. What Makes Readers Keep Turning Pages From exciting plots to unforgettable characters, Lily explains what captures her attention as a reader. Creating Memorable Characters How young writers naturally think about personality, names, and character development before ever writing the first page. Heroes, Villains, and Conflict A fun discussion about protagonists, antagonists, and why every great story needs obstacles for characters to overcome. Building New Worlds Whether stories begin with setting, plot, or characters, Lily shares how imagination helps bring fictional worlds to life. Reading as a Better Writer Why reading teaches storytelling—even when you don't realize you're learning. The Challenges of Writing Every writer gets stuck. Lily talks about the hardest parts of creating a story and how she works through them. The Joy of Creating The conversation ends by celebrating the simple excitement of making something from nothing—and why storytelling remains one of the most creative things we can do. Key Takeaways for Writers Great storytelling begins with curiosity and imagination. Reading widely helps writers develop stronger storytelling instincts. Memorable characters are often what readers remember most. Conflict gives stories purpose, momentum, and emotional impact. Story ideas can come from everyday experiences, books, movies, or simple "what if" questions. Writers don't lose their imagination as they grow older—they simply need to reconnect with it. The fundamentals of storytelling remain the same whether you're in fourth grade or writing your tenth novel. Guest Spotlight: Lily Navickas Lily Navickas is a creative fourth-grade student who loves reading, writing, dancing, and letting her imagination run wild. Whether she's inventing new characters, imagining magical worlds, or diving into her favorite books, Lily reminds us that storytelling begins long before anyone thinks about publishing. Her fresh perspective offers an important reminder to writers everywhere: never lose your sense of wonder. About the Show Just Write Julie is the podcast where writing meets strategy and creativity meets clarity. Each episode helps writers strengthen both their craft and their confidence through conversations with authors, publishing professionals, creatives, and industry experts. Listen & Subscribe Follow and subscribe to Just Write Julie on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and YouTube. If this episode reminded you why you fell in love with storytelling in the first place, share it with a writer, teacher, parent, or creative friend who could use a little inspiration. For writing resources, behind-the-scenes content, and author updates, visit AuthorJulieNavickas.com and connect with Julie on social media. Until next time: just write—and don't forget where every great story begins: with imagination.

  4. May 18

    The Editor Who Thinks Like a Marketer: Craft, Positioning, and Strategy from Draft to Launch with Claire Coffey

    Episode Overview In Episode 5 of Just Write Julie, host Julie Navickas sits down with editor, book coach, and founder of The Coffey Edit, Claire Coffey, for a conversation about the intersection of storytelling craft, author branding, and strategic positioning in today’s publishing landscape. With a professional background in public relations and communications, Claire brings a unique “dual lens” to the editorial world—helping writers strengthen not only the quality of their manuscripts, but also the way they communicate and position their work for readers and the market. Together, Julie and Claire explore why marketing should begin long before launch day, how authors can think strategically from the very first draft, and what it really means to build a book and author brand that resonates. From developmental editing and book coaching to author platforms and messaging, this episode offers practical guidance for writers at every stage of the publishing journey. Whether you’re writing your debut novel or refining your long-term author strategy, this conversation will help you think beyond the manuscript—and approach your writing career with greater clarity and intention. What You’ll Hear in This Episode Claire’s Origin Story Claire shares her transition from PR and communications into editorial work and how The Coffey Edit evolved into a business focused on both storytelling and strategy. The PR Lens in Editing How Claire’s background in communications shapes the way she approaches developmental editing, author messaging, and positioning in a competitive publishing landscape. Why Marketing Starts Before Launch Julie and Claire discuss why authors should stop viewing marketing as something that happens after a book is finished—and how positioning can begin during the drafting stage. The Biggest Marketing Mistake Authors Make Claire breaks down one of the most common missteps writers make when trying to market their work—and how to avoid it. What Developmental Editing Actually Does An inside look at developmental editing, how it differs from other forms of editing, and why it can transform a manuscript at the structural level. Book Coaching for New Writers What book coaching looks like for first-time authors, where writers tend to struggle most, and how guided support can help them move forward with confidence. The Emotional Reality of Editing Editing can feel deeply personal. Claire shares what writers should expect emotionally when handing over a manuscript—and why vulnerability is part of the process. Learning to Talk About Your Book Many writers struggle to pitch or summarize their own work. Claire explains how authors can better articulate their story, audience, and unique value in ways that attract the right readers. The One Takeaway The strongest author careers are built when craft and communication work together. Writing the book is only part of the journey—learning how to position and advocate for your work matters, too. Key Takeaways for Writers Marketing and positioning should begin long before a book launches. Developmental editing focuses on strengthening structure, pacing, character arcs, and overall story cohesion. Writers benefit from thinking strategically about audience and branding early in the drafting process. Author platforms are most effective when they reflect authenticity and clarity. Learning to confidently talk about your book is a critical professional skill. Editing is both a creative and emotional process—and collaboration matters. Strong storytelling and strong communication go hand in hand in today’s publishing industry. Guest Spotlight: Claire Coffey Claire Coffey is the founder of The Coffey Edit, where she specializes in developmental editing, book coaching, and editorial strategy for romance, romantasy, and memoir authors. Drawing from her background in public relations and communications, Claire helps writers strengthen not only their manuscripts, but also the way they position and communicate their stories in the marketplace. Her work centers on helping authors create books with both emotional impact and strategic clarity—bridging the gap between compelling storytelling and sustainable author branding. Connect with Claire The Coffey Edit: TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@clairecbookediting  Free Download: https://the-coffey-edit.kit.com/28955644d0 About the Show Just Write Julie is the podcast where writing meets strategy and creativity meets clarity. Each episode helps writers strengthen their work on the page while learning how to position, communicate, and advocate for their stories with confidence. Listen & Subscribe Follow and subscribe to Just Write Julie on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and YouTube. If this episode helped you think differently about editing, branding, or the business side of storytelling, share it with a writer who’s building their career one draft at a time. For more tools, templates, and behind-the-scenes lessons, visit authorjulienavickas.com and connect with Julie on social media. Until next time: just write—and don’t be afraid to be strategic about it.

  5. Apr 1

    Finding the Right Angle: Character Development and 21st-Century Storytelling with Lisa Angle

    Episode Overview In Episode 4 of Just Write Julie, host Julie Navickas sits down with award-winning author Lisa Angle, founder of Ninety Degrees Media, to explore the art and strategy behind compelling character development in modern storytelling. Together, they unpack what it really means to create characters readers connect with—and why strong character work is often the difference between a story that’s simply read and one that’s deeply felt. From crafting meaningful dialogue to using point of view with intention, Julie and Lisa break down how today’s writers can build emotionally resonant stories that stand out in a fast-moving, digital-first landscape. Whether you’re drafting your first manuscript or revising a completed one, this conversation offers practical tools and a fresh perspective on how to develop characters that stay with readers long after the final page. What You’ll Hear in This Episode Lisa’s Origin Story Lisa shares how she built Ninety Degrees Media and what drew her to helping writers shape and share their stories—from developmental editing to building a meaningful author presence. Why Character Matters What makes readers fall in love with a book? Lisa explains why memorable characters—not just plot—are at the heart of lasting stories, and what separates dynamic characters from ones that fall flat. Character Development in Modern Storytelling Storytelling has evolved alongside the publishing landscape. Julie and Lisa discuss what “twenty-first century storytelling” really means—and how reader expectations around character depth and relatability have shifted. Building Characters Readers Care About Practical strategies for writers at the beginning of a manuscript, including how to create layered, believable characters from the very first page. Dialogue with Purpose Lisa breaks down what effective dialogue actually does in a story—and the common mistakes that weaken it. Learn how to ensure every line of dialogue earns its place. POV and Emotional Connection Point of view isn’t just a technical choice—it’s an emotional one. This segment explores how intentional POV choices can deepen reader immersion and strengthen connection to your characters. Balancing Pacing and Character Growth How do you keep a story moving while still allowing space for meaningful character development? Julie and Lisa discuss how to strike the right balance between plot momentum and emotional evolution. The One Takeaway If there’s one thing to remember: strong stories aren’t built on plot alone—they’re built on characters who feel real, complex, and impossible to forget. Key Takeaways for Writers Memorable characters are the foundation of emotionally impactful storytelling. Strong dialogue should always serve a purpose—revealing character, advancing plot, or deepening tension. Point of view is a strategic tool that shapes reader connection. Pacing and character development must work together—not compete. Effective self-editing starts by evaluating character motivation, consistency, and growth. Storytelling extends beyond the page in today’s digital landscape. Guest Spotlight: Lisa Angle Lisa Angle is an award-winning author and the founder of Ninety Degrees Media, where she helps writers develop, refine, and share their stories. Through developmental editing, strategic guidance, and author platform support, Lisa works with writers to strengthen both their craft and their connection with readers. Her approach centers on helping authors find the right angle for their story—ensuring their characters, voice, and message resonate in today’s evolving storytelling landscape. Connect with Lisa Ninety Degrees Media: https://www.ninetydegreesmedia.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/angleonwriting/ Download: Top Ten Tips for Writing Your Story: https://www.ninetydegreesmedia.com/contact/  About the Show Just Write Julie is the podcast where writing meets strategy and creativity meets clarity. Each episode helps writers strengthen their work on the page while learning how to position, communicate, and advocate for their stories with confidence. Listen & Subscribe Follow and subscribe to Just Write Julie on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and YouTube. If this episode helped you think differently about your characters, share it with a writer who’s ready to deepen their storytelling. For more tools, templates, and behind-the-scenes lessons, visit authorjulienavickas.com and connect with Julie on social media. Until next time: just write—and don’t be afraid to be strategic about it.

  6. Mar 12

    Doing the Next Write Thing: How Authors Make Real Progress with Lenora Henson

    Episode Overview In Episode 3 of Just Write Julie, host Julie Navickas sits down with Lenora Henson, founder of Poppy & Oak Creative, author strategist, and virtual assistant for writers navigating the business side of publishing. Together, they explore what it really means to “do the next write thing”—a philosophy that encourages authors to focus on intentional progress rather than chasing every new trend in the publishing world. Julie and Lenora discuss how writers can build strong foundations for sustainable careers, why patience is often the missing ingredient in author success, and how small strategic steps—like building an email newsletter—can create long-term momentum. Whether you’re finishing your first manuscript or figuring out what comes after publication, this episode offers a clear reminder: progress in publishing doesn’t come from doing everything—it comes from doing the next write thing. What You’ll Hear in This Episode How Julie & Lenora First Connected Julie and Lenora share the story of how their professional relationship began and how it evolved into a strategic collaboration around author platforms, publishing strategy, and sustainable career growth. What “Doing the Next Write Thing” Really Means Lenora explains the philosophy behind the phrase she often shares with authors: instead of trying to solve every publishing problem at once, focus on the next clear step that moves your writing career forward. Patience as a Publishing Strategy Publishing moves slowly—but that doesn’t mean authors aren’t making progress. Julie and Lenora discuss why patience is essential for long-term success and where writers most often struggle with unrealistic expectations. Building a Strong Author Foundation Before investing heavily in marketing and launches, authors need the right foundational pieces in place. Lenora outlines the core elements every writer should establish to support long-term visibility and connection with readers. Why Email Newsletters Matter More Than Ever While social media platforms come and go, email lists remain one of the most powerful tools an author can build. Lenora explains why newsletters are essential—and how writers can begin growing one even if they’re starting from zero. Balancing Creativity and Business Writing is both an art and a profession. Julie and Lenora discuss what happens when authors lean too heavily toward either creativity or business—and how finding balance allows both to thrive. Building Momentum Beyond Social Media For writers feeling burned out by algorithms and constant content creation, Lenora offers alternative ways to build connection, visibility, and reader relationships outside of social media platforms. Supporting the Whole Author Publishing can be emotionally demanding. Lenora shares how she supports writers not just strategically, but also through the uncertainty, self-doubt, and isolation that can accompany the creative process. The One Takeaway If listeners walk away remembering just one thing from this conversation, it’s this: progress in publishing doesn’t require perfection—it requires patience and clarity about your next step. Key Takeaways for Writers Progress in publishing comes from consistent next steps—not trying to do everything at once. Patience is a strategic advantage in an industry that moves slowly. A strong author foundation should come before aggressive marketing efforts. Email newsletters remain one of the most valuable long-term tools for connecting with readers. Trends come and go, but alignment with your goals and strengths creates sustainable momentum. Guest Spotlight: Lenora Henson Lenora Henson is the founder of Poppy & Oak Creative, where she helps authors build strategic foundations for their publishing careers. With more than a decade of experience in the publishing space, Lenora works with writers to develop sustainable systems for newsletters, reader communication, and long-term career growth. Her philosophy centers on helping authors focus on the next clear step—allowing them to make meaningful progress without becoming overwhelmed by the constantly shifting publishing landscape. Connect with Lenora Poppy & Oak Creative – https://poppyandoakcreative.com Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/poppyandoakcreative/ Explore the 7-Day Author Newsletter Blueprint to begin building your email list and reader community. About the Show Just Write Julie is the writing podcast where craft meets strategy and creativity meets clarity. Each episode helps writers strengthen their work on the page while learning how to position, communicate, and advocate for their stories with confidence. Listen & Subscribe Follow and subscribe to Just Write Julie on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and YouTube. If this episode helped you rethink your next step as a writer, share it with a friend who could use a little clarity in their publishing journey. For tools, templates, and behind-the-scenes lessons, visit authorjulienavickas.com and connect with Julie on social media. Until next time: just write—and don’t be afraid to be strategic about it.

  7. Feb 20

    Self-Editing, Feedback & Editing Strategy with Allison Buehner

    Episode Overview In Episode 2 of Just Write Julie, host Julie Navickas sits down with Allison Buehner, founder of Golden Editorial and creator of The Complete Guide to Book Editing, for a strategic deep dive into what happens after you type “The End.” Together, they unpack the difference between self-editing and perfectionism, how to build a smart feedback ecosystem, and why clarity—not more opinions—is the real key to confident revision. Whether you’re pursuing traditional publishing or building an indie career, this conversation will help you approach editing as a series of intentional decisions instead of an overwhelming blur of red ink. What You’ll Hear in This Episode How Julie & Allison First Connected Julie and Allison share the origin of their professional relationship and how craft conversations evolved into a strategic partnership around editing, publishing paths, and long-term author growth. What Editing Actually Is (And What It’s Not) Allison breaks down one of the biggest misconceptions writers have after finishing a draft. Editing isn’t about “fixing everything.” It’s about identifying the right stage, the right tools, and the right goals for where you are. Self-Editing as a Strategic Filter Before hiring an editor, what should authors focus on themselves? Allison outlines the highest-impact areas writers can address independently—and what they should absolutely stop obsessing over too early (hint: it’s probably not your commas). Craft Rules vs. Craft Judgment When should you follow best practices—and when can you intentionally break them? Allison explains how writers can begin distinguishing between a stylistic choice and a structural issue when revising on their own. Traditional vs. Indie Editing Mindsets Your publishing path shapes your editing timeline. Julie and Allison discuss how editing strategy shifts depending on whether you’re pursuing traditional publishing or indie, and how authors sometimes use the right tool at the wrong stage. Understanding the Feedback Ecosystem Critique partners. Beta readers. Professional editors. ARC teams. Allison breaks down what each role is actually for—and when in the lifecycle of a manuscript each one is most effective. Avoiding Feedback Overload What happens when you get feedback… and feel more confused than before? This segment focuses on evaluating conflicting opinions without losing your voice, your confidence, or your original vision. Building a Smart Feedback Team on a Budget For early-career writers—or those working with limited resources—Allison shares how to build a layered, intentional support system over time instead of trying to do everything all at once. The One Question That Creates Clarity If listeners walk away remembering just one guiding question before seeking feedback or hiring an editor, this is it. This single question reframes editing from reactionary to strategic—and helps authors move forward with confidence. Key Takeaways for Writers Editing is a decision-making process—not a perfection contest. Not all feedback serves the same purpose. Timing matters. Conflicting opinions don’t mean your book is broken—they mean you need clarity on your goals. Your publishing path determines your editing strategy. Confidence grows when you understand why you’re making revisions—not just what to change. Guest Spotlight: Allison Buehner Allison Buehner is the founder of Golden Editorial and the creator of The Complete Guide to Book Editing. She works with authors across publishing paths to help them approach editing with clarity, structure, and confidence. Her work focuses on empowering writers to make informed craft decisions while building sustainable publishing strategies. Connect with Allison: Golden Editorial – https://www.thegoldeneditorial.com/ Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/thegoldeneditorial/  Tiktok - https://www.tiktok.com/@allisonbuehner  Get the Complete Guide to Book Editing: https://www.thegoldeneditorial.com/store/p19/book-editing-a-complete-guide.html  About the Show Just Write Julie is the writing podcast where craft meets strategy, and creativity meets clarity. Each episode helps writers strengthen the work on the page—and learn how to position it, communicate about it, and advocate for it with confidence. Listen & Subscribe Follow and subscribe to Just Write Julie on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and YouTube. If this episode helped you think differently about editing, share it with a writer friend who’s staring at a draft wondering, “Now what?” For tools, templates, and behind-the-scenes lessons, visit authorjulienavickas.com and connect with Julie on social media. Until next time: just write—and don’t be afraid to be strategic about it.

  8. Jan 20

    How to Revise a Messy First Draft with Shelby Holt

    In the very first episode of Just Write Julie, host Julie Navickas sits down with TV and film casting associate Shelby Holt for a candid, encouraging conversation about what it really takes to move a story from a messy first draft to a polished manuscript. Together, they unpack the power of persistence, the importance of finding the right critique partner, and how the publishing industry—and a writer’s mindset within it—has evolved over time. What You’ll Hear in This Episode How creative partnerships are built Julie and Shelby share how they first connected and how their relationship evolved into a daily critique partnership—and why consistent, trusted feedback can be transformative for writers. Shelby’s path into TV & film casting From film school to finding her footing in casting, Shelby explains how working behind the scenes in Hollywood sharpened her understanding of story, character, and voice. What casting teaches writers about the page Shelby discusses how evaluating scripts and performances informs her writing—especially when it comes to character clarity, authenticity, and market awareness. Inside The Bones of December Shelby offers a snapshot of her latest project, where it’s currently sitting in the querying process, and how the manuscript evolved through revision. Revising the messy middle A practical, honest discussion about what it takes to reshape a first draft: patience, distance, iteration, and the willingness to keep showing up even when the process feels slow. A mindset shift about publishing Reflecting on the past five years, Shelby shares how her understanding of publishing—and of herself as a writer—has changed through lived experience. Key Takeaways for Writers Persistence matters more than perfection. Revision is not failure—it’s where the story becomes what it’s meant to be. A strong critique partner can accelerate growth and keep you accountable. You can’t fully understand the industry—or your voice—until you’re actively in the work. Guest Spotlight: Shelby Holt Shelby Holt is a TV and film casting associate with a lifelong passion for storytelling. Her professional experience evaluating scripts and performances gives her a unique lens on writing craft, character development, and revision. She is currently querying her novel The Bones of December. Connect with Shelby: Follow her on Instagram at @shelbay9 About the Show Just Write Julie is the writing podcast where craft meets strategy, and creativity meets clarity. Each episode helps writers strengthen the work on the page—and learn how to position it, communicate about it, and advocate for it with confidence. Listen & Subscribe Follow and subscribe to Just Write Julie on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and YouTube. If this episode helped you, leave a review or share it with a writer friend who’s deep in the messy middle. For tools, templates, and behind-the-scenes lessons, visit authorjulienavickas.com and connect with Julie on social. Until next time: just write—and don’t be afraid to be strategic about it.

  9. Jan 11 ·  Video

    Just Write Julie: Podcast Trailer

    Just Write Julie is the writing podcast where craft meets strategy. Each episode helps writers strengthen the work on the page—and learn how to position it, communicate about it, and advocate for it with clarity and confidence. Most writing podcasts stay in one lane. This one brings three together—craft, career, and communication—through conversations with authors, editors, marketers, and storytellers who know talent is only the beginning. If you want to write better and be more strategic about how you share your work, this show is for you.

  • 9 Episodes

About

Just Write Julie is the writing podcast where craft meets strategy. Each episode helps writers strengthen the work on the page—and learn how to position it, communicate about it, and advocate for it with clarity and confidence. Most writing podcasts stay in one lane. This one brings three together—craft, career, and communication—through conversations with authors, editors, marketers, and storytellers who know talent is only the beginning. If you want to write better and be more strategic about how you share your work, this show is for you.

Information

  • Creator
    Julie Navickas
  • Years Active
    2026
  • Episodes
    9
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Copyright 2026 All rights reserved.
  • Show Website
    Just Write Julie