On the Write Track Podcast

Sarah Mughal Rana, Emily Varga
  • 5.0 (11)
  • Books
  • Updated Biweekly

On the Write Track is a podcast from debut authors Sarah Mughal Rana and Emily Varga that address the little known secrets of traditional publishing and behind the scenes, from guests in different stages in the industry, to provide our listeners an insider's look. Guests include New York Times, International bestselling, and critically acclaimed authors, agents, Big 4 publishing editors, successful Tik Tok book influencers, marketers, and everything in between. Follow our socials and subscribe for the latest updates. Consider signing up to our Patreon page, even a small help goes a long way, to support the podcast, receive unique perks, and get exclusive Q&A access and writing advice from us!

  1. 5d ago

    50: Jennifer Iacopelli on Netflix, Second Chances in Writing & the Staying Power of Sports Romance

    On this episode of On the Write Track, Sarah and Emily sit down with bestselling author Jennifer Iacopelli to talk about the incredible journey of seeing her books find a whole new life through a Netflix adaptation. Jennifer shares what it’s like watching her work make the leap from page to screen, from her role in the adaptation and working alongside the cast to the experience of seeing readers rediscover her books years after they were first published. We also dive into the unique appeal of sports romance and why stories that combine competition, ambition, romance and high-stakes drama continue to resonate so strongly with romance readers. Jennifer opens up about building a long-lasting writing career, the importance of longevity in publishing, and why she made the decision not to quit her day job while pursuing writing. She shares lessons on balancing a career, creativity and the unpredictable nature of publishing; what aspiring authors can learn from her journey. Whether you’re an aspiring writer, a longtime romance reader or simply curious about what happens when a beloved book gets to go to the big screen, this is an episode about resilience and staying in the game.   Jennifer Iacopelli Website Instagram   Books Mentioned - We strongly encourage that listeners purchase these titles from their favorite indie bookstore Game, Set, Match by Jennifer Iacopelli Break the Fall by Jennifer Iacopelli Finding Her Edge by Jennifer Iacopelli Wildcard by Jennifer Iacopelli Emily Varga's books Sarah Mughal Rana's books   Come back on the first Thursday of every month for a brand new episode of On the Write Track Pod. Make sure you hit the follow button to get notified, and like and subscribe to the podcast wherever you listen! Sign up to our Patreon where you can receive exclusive perks, some for as little as the cost of a coffee! Did you enjoy the episode? Please leave us a review! Follow the podcast @OntheWriteTrackPodcast on Instagram. Also connect with Sarah and Emily on Instagram or TikTok!

  2. May 7

    49: Tigest Girma on Perseverance, Black Vampires, and Using TikTok to Break Through

    In this episode of On the Write Track, Emily and Sarah sit down with Tigest Girma to talk about what it really takes to keep going as a writer. Tigest opens up about perseverance, writing through rejection, self-doubt, and long stretches of uncertainty, and why continuing to write and show up on the page mattered. We dig into her relationship with prose: how she developed and edited, and how she learned to trust her instincts even when they didn’t fit trends. Tigest also shares how she used TikTok and social media intentionally, not just for visibility, but for connection—building an audience while still protecting her creative process. From staying consistent with writing, to navigating online spaces as an author, to believing in your work before the industry does, this conversation is a candid, motivating look at resilience, and making space for your voice.   Tigest Girma WebsiteInstagramTikTokFilm Courage YouTube Channel   Books Mentioned - We strongly encourage that listeners purchase these titles from their favorite indie bookstore Immortal Dark by Tigest GirmaEternal Ruin by Tigest GirmaChildren of Blood and Bone by Tomi AdeyemiThe Anatomy of Story by John TrubyThe Emotional Craft of Fiction by Donald MaassBig Magic by Elizabeth GilbertEmily Varga's booksSarah Mughal Rana's books  Come back on the first Thursday of every month for a brand new episode of On the Write Track Pod. Make sure you hit the follow button to get notified, and like and subscribe to the podcast wherever you listen! Sign up to our Patreon where you can receive exclusive perks, some for as little as the cost of a coffee! Did you enjoy the episode? Please leave us a review! It really helps the podcast, especially since we're just getting started. Follow the podcast @OntheWriteTrackPodcast on Instagram. Also connect with Sarah and Emily on Instagram or TikTok! Come back on the first Thursday of every month for a brand new episode of On the Write Track Pod. Make sure you hit the follow button to get notified, and like and subscribe to the podcast wherever you listen! Sign up to our Patreon where you can receive exclusive perks, some for as little as the cost of a coffee! Did you enjoy the episode? Please leave us a review! Follow the podcast @OntheWriteTrackPodcast on Instagram. Also connect with Sarah and Emily on Instagram or TikTok!

  3. Apr 2

    48: Jill Tew: Dystopian Worlds & Bringing Business on Hustle, Romantasy, and Reinventing Dystopian Fiction

    In this episode, Sarah and Emily sit down with author Jill Tew for an unfiltered conversation about the dystopian genre and the hustle of writing. Jill shares how she’s making space in dystopian fiction by challenging white washed narratives, tropes and championing BIPOC voices, while weaving in romantasy. We dive into the misconceptions about the dystopian genre, what’s still missing on the shelves, and how Jill’s business-school background and approach—including printing her own physical ARCs for readers—has set her apart. We talk about writing both middle grade and YA and adult SFF. If you’ve ever wondered how to blend business and writing with a growth mindset, this is the episode for you.   Jill Tew WebsiteInstagramSubstackBooks Mentioned - We strongly encourage that listeners purchase these titles from their favorite indie bookstore The Dividing Sky by Jill TewKaya Morgan's Crowning Achievement by Jill TewAn Ocean Apart by Jill TewClimate of Chaos by Cassandra NewbouldChain-Gang All-Stars by Nana Kwame Adjei-BrenyahLore of the Wilds seriesLegendborn by Tracy DeonnBlood over Brighthaven by M.L. WangSword of Kaigen by M.L. WangEmily Varga's booksSarah Mughal Rana's books   Come back on the first Thursday of every month for a brand new episode of On the Write Track Pod. Make sure you hit the follow button to get notified, and like and subscribe to the podcast wherever you listen! Sign up to our Patreon where you can receive exclusive perks, some for as little as the cost of a coffee! Did you enjoy the episode? Please leave us a review! Follow the podcast @OntheWriteTrackPodcast on Instagram. Also connect with Sarah and Emily on Instagram or TikTok!

  4. Mar 5

    47: Rebecca Ross: on Writing Her Book of the Heart, Perseverance, Health, and Longevity

    In this episode of On the Write Track, Sarah and Emily sit down with Rebecca Ross, #1 New York Times bestselling author of Divine Rivals, to talk about the journey behind her long career and “book of the heart.” Rebecca shares candidly about the perseverance it took to keep going through the ups and downs of publishing, changing teams, and even the health struggles of constantly being on deadline. We also explore Rebecca’s works—from her YA fantasies The Queen’s Rising to her adult, A River Enchanted and its sequel A Fire Endless, and her latest viral phenomenon Divine Rivals and now Wild Reverence, and the inspiration behind the spin off. We go into the reaction when Divine Rivals went viral, and what it’s been like to see her work picked up for a television adaptation; Rebecca’s craft, exploring how she balances lyrical prose with storytelling, and the lessons she’s learned about building a career with both resilience and perseverance. This episode is a celebration of longevity, staying true to your vision, and creating stories that endure, while avoiding burn out.   Rebecca Ross WebsiteInstagram  Books Mentioned - We strongly encourage that listeners purchase these titles from their favorite indie bookstore Divine Rivals by Rebecca RossRuthless Vows by Rebecca RossWild Reverence by Rebecca RossA River Enchanted by Rebecca RossA Fire Endless by Rebecca RossDreams Lie Beneath by Rebecca RossThe Queen's Rising by Rebecca RossThe Queen's Resistance by Rebecca RossSisters of Sword and Song by Rebecca RossAn Enchantment of Ravens by Margaret RogersonJane Eyre by Charlotte BrontePersuasion by Jane AustenBreak Wide the Sea by Sarah HollandEmily Varga's booksSarah Mughal Rana's books  Come back on the first Thursday of every month for a brand new episode of On the Write Track Pod. Make sure you hit the follow button to get notified, and like and subscribe to the podcast wherever you listen! Sign up to our Patreon where you can receive exclusive perks, some for as little as the cost of a coffee! Did you enjoy the episode? Please leave us a review! Follow the podcast @OntheWriteTrackPodcast on Instagram. Also connect with Sarah and Emily on Instagram or TikTok!

  5. Feb 5

    46: Ken Liu: Imagination, Invention, and the Future of Fantasy

    Join Emily and Sarah for a conversation with award-winning author Ken Liu — the Hugo, Nebula, and World Fantasy Award–winning writer behind The Paper Menagerie and The Grace of Kings, whose work include both riveting short stories and novels. In this episode we dive into his journey, from making the leap to full-time writing, to navigating film and book industry opportunities, and explore how he builds stories that operate not just as narratives but as metaphors for identity, culture, and technology. Ken discusses his newest novel, All That We See or Seem, a near-future thriller where art, AI, and human yearning intersect, and the conversations talks about the evolving fantasy and sci-fi market. We cover, the moment he decided to write full time, and how that opened doors beyond publishing. His method of embedding metaphor in every short story from a craft angle to ground it in deeper themes. His take on fantasy and science fiction today: how the genre is changing in a bigger romantasy market, what readers are looking for, and where he sees it headed. And a thoughtful discussion on AI and art: what it means for creators, for originality, for the future of storytelling. Whether you’re a writer, a sci-fi fan, or simply curious about how an author thinks about art in tech-driven times, this episode offers a thoughtful, dive into the craft and the future from one of the best and celebrated writers of our generation.   Ken Liu WebsiteBooks Mentioned - We strongly encourage that listeners purchase these titles from their favorite indie bookstore All That We See or Seem by Ken LiuThe Paper Menagerie and Other Stories by Ken LiuThe Grace of Kings by Ken LiuParadise Lost by John MiltonPercy Jackson seriesEmily Varga's booksSarah Mughal Rana's books Come back on the first Thursday of every month for a brand new episode of On the Write Track Pod. Make sure you hit the follow button to get notified, and like and subscribe to the podcast wherever you listen! Sign up to our Patreon where you can receive exclusive perks, some for as little as the cost of a coffee! Did you enjoy the episode? Please leave us a review! Follow the podcast @OntheWriteTrackPodcast on Instagram. Also connect with Sarah and Emily on Instagram or TikTok!

  6. Jan 1

    45: James Islington on Craft, Career, and Creating The Will of the Many

    From a tech startup to bestselling fantasy author, James Islington joins hosts Sarah and Emily for an episode of On the Write Track for a deep dive into the discipline, worldbuilding, and creative instincts behind his craft and fantasy books. We explore how James made the leap from a tech career to full-time writing, how his indie beginnings shaped his career, and what changed when he transitioned to traditional publishing. James shares the many rejections early in his career; how he treats writing like a 9-to-5 job, the routines that keep him grounded, and the lessons he’s learned while building massive fantasy worlds. We get into the inspirations behind The Will of the Many—from Celtic lore to Egyptian mythology—and how he balances research, hard magic systems, mystery, and emotional stakes across a long series arc. James also answers questions on spoilers in his books; the length of the Hierarchy series, the ending, and offers invaluable advice for emerging fantasy writers on process, persistence, and trusting the story you’re meant to tell.   SPOILER NOTE! - 16:58 → 20:53   James Islington's Website Books Mentioned - We strongly encourage that listeners purchase these titles from their favorite indie bookstore The Licanius Trilogy by James IslingtonThe Will of the Many by James IslingtonThe Strength of a Few by James IslingtonThe Wheel of Time by Robert JordanThe Name of the Wind by Patrick RothfrussDemon Copperhead by Barbara KingsolverBrandon SandersonEmily Varga's booksSarah Mughal Rana's books  Come back on the first Thursday of every month for a brand new episode of On the Write Track Pod. Make sure you hit the follow button to get notified, and like and subscribe to the podcast wherever you listen! Sign up to our Patreon where you can receive exclusive perks, some for as little as the cost of a coffee! Did you enjoy the episode? Please leave us a review! Follow the podcast @OntheWriteTrackPodcast on Instagram. Also connect with Sarah and Emily on Instagram or TikTok!

  7. 12/04/2025

    44: Tina Mars: Following the Energy

    In this episode of On the Write Track, Emily and Sarah sit down with Tina Mars, one of Bookstagram’s breakout stars turned debut fantasy author. Tina shares how a simple love for reading grew into a thriving online community, what inspired her to start posting in the first place, and the journey to full-time content creator. She opens up about the ups and downs of growing her platform and business, the lessons she’s learned about consistency and authenticity, and how she leveraged her audience to find an agent and secure a book deal for her upcoming fantasy novel. Tina also offers practical, heartfelt advice for aspiring creators, from building your personal brand to managing burnout and staying true to your voice online. Whether you’re a writer hoping to build your platform or a Bookstagrammer, or a writer aiming to have your own book deal, this episode is a motivating deep dive!   Tina Mars WebsiteInstagramYoutube  Dabble Timer   Books Mentioned - We strongly encourage that listeners purchase these titles from their favorite indie bookstore The Book of Azrael by Amber V NicoleThe Hurricane Wars by Thea GuanzonTrial of the Sun Queen by Nisha TuliA Cruel Thirst by Angela MontoyaCarnival Fantástico by Angela MontoyaEmily Varga's booksSarah Mughal Rana's books   Come back on the first Thursday of every month for a brand new episode of On the Write Track Pod. Make sure you hit the follow button to get notified, and like and subscribe to the podcast wherever you listen! Sign up to our Patreon where you can receive exclusive perks, some for as little as the cost of a coffee! Did you enjoy the episode? Please leave us a review! It really helps the podcast, especially since we're just getting started. Follow the podcast @OntheWriteTrackPodcast on Instagram. Also connect with Sarah and Emily on Instagram or TikTok! Come back on the first Thursday of every month for a brand new episode of On the Write Track Pod. Make sure you hit the follow button to get notified, and like and subscribe to the podcast wherever you listen! Sign up to our Patreon where you can receive exclusive perks, some for as little as the cost of a coffee! Did you enjoy the episode? Please leave us a review! Follow the podcast @OntheWriteTrackPodcast on Instagram. Also connect with Sarah and Emily on Instagram or TikTok!

  8. 11/06/2025

    43: Nisha Tuli: Crowning Your Own Success on Romantasy, and Owning Your Author Journey

    This week, Sarah and Emily welcome bestselling romantasy author Nisha Tuli for an inspiring dive into building an authentic, sustainable career from indie to traditional publishing. Nisha opens up about her experience as an Indie author who has a South Asian heritage but also the fears of being boxed in, and how she hustled to grow her audience. We explore how she’s navigated the explosion of romantasy, the pressures and perks of genre labels, and the business mindset that helps her stay focused amid the noise, including switching agents and taking on multiple projects to grow. From having a loyal readership to branching out in adult, and now YA, as well as multi-genre stories that blend romance, magic, and diverse FMC’s, Nisha shares really valuable wisdom for any writer ready to grow.   Nisha Tuli WebsiteInstagramTikTokBecca Syme: Strengths For Writers 101   Books Mentioned - We strongly encourage that listeners purchase these titles from their favorite indie bookstore Not Safe for Work by Nisha TuliTrial of the Sun Queen by Nisha TuliHeart of Night and Fire by Nisha TuliWicked is the Reaper by Nisha TuliLove is a War Song by Danica NavaEmily Varga's booksSarah Mughal Rana's books  Come back on the first Thursday of every month for a brand new episode of On the Write Track Pod. Make sure you hit the follow button to get notified, and like and subscribe to the podcast wherever you listen! Sign up to our Patreon where you can receive exclusive perks, some for as little as the cost of a coffee! Did you enjoy the episode? Please leave us a review! It really helps the podcast, especially since we're just getting started. Follow the podcast @OntheWriteTrackPodcast on Instagram. Also connect with Sarah and Emily on Instagram or TikTok! Come back on the first Thursday of every month for a brand new episode of On the Write Track Pod. Make sure you hit the follow button to get notified, and like and subscribe to the podcast wherever you listen! Sign up to our Patreon where you can receive exclusive perks, some for as little as the cost of a coffee! Did you enjoy the episode? Please leave us a review! Follow the podcast @OntheWriteTrackPodcast on Instagram. Also connect with Sarah and Emily on Instagram or TikTok!

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About

On the Write Track is a podcast from debut authors Sarah Mughal Rana and Emily Varga that address the little known secrets of traditional publishing and behind the scenes, from guests in different stages in the industry, to provide our listeners an insider's look. Guests include New York Times, International bestselling, and critically acclaimed authors, agents, Big 4 publishing editors, successful Tik Tok book influencers, marketers, and everything in between. Follow our socials and subscribe for the latest updates. Consider signing up to our Patreon page, even a small help goes a long way, to support the podcast, receive unique perks, and get exclusive Q&A access and writing advice from us!

Information

  • Creator
    Sarah Mughal Rana, Emily Varga
  • Years Active
    2022 - 2026
  • Episodes
    51
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2022 On the Write Track Podcast
  • Show Website
    On the Write Track Podcast

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