Creating Happy Writers

Steph Caswell
Creating Happy Writers

If you're writing a non-fiction or business book, The Creating Happy Writers Podcast is here to inspire, educate and empower you with the tools you need to make your writing journey a happy and successful one. Each week, we dive into what it takes to write and publish a book in your niche that will not only help you become a go-to expert but also one you can be truly proud of.

  1. S3 Ep 77: Best of the Guests 2024 - Part 1

    16 DÉC.

    S3 Ep 77: Best of the Guests 2024 - Part 1

    There's no 'one size fits all' approach to building your author platform - but there are proven strategies that can help you find your own authentic path. In this special compilation episode, featuring highlights from some of Creating Happy Writers' most insightful conversations of 2024, six guest authors and industry experts share their invaluable insights on everything from email marketing to managing your inner critic, helping you navigate the journey from writing your book to connecting with your readers. Listen to this episode to discover: Hannah Isted's practical approach to email marketing and balancing book promotion with business activities, including how she used her email list to shape her book's development Sarah Dalrymple's fresh perspective on finding ease in sales, particularly for women of the pre-internet generation who weren't taught to be comfortable using their voices Natalya Androsova's compassionate strategies for managing your inner critic, including creating a mental "writing sanctuary" where self-doubt isn't allowed to enter Nicola Washington's insights on social media strategy for authors and why visibility fears often stem from our real-life connections rather than online strangers Isabelle Knight's approach to author branding, reframing it as simply telling the story behind your story rather than a marketing chore Anna Zannides' powerful message about believing in your potential beyond traditional measures of success, drawing from her experience as both a teacher and writer This episode is packed with practical advice and emotional support for writers at every stage of their journey. From marketing strategies to mindset work, each guest brings their unique expertise while sharing a common thread: the importance of finding authentic ways to share your work with the world. Whether you're just starting your writing journey or looking to level up your author platform, these conversations offer valuable insights to help you move forward with confidence. Enjoy! Guest Information Hannah Isted Book Instagram Website Full episode Sara Dalrymple Book Instagram  Website Full episode Natalya Androsova Books Instagram Website Full episode Isabelle Knight Website Instagram LinkedIn Full episode Nicola Washington Website Instagram Substack Full episode Anna Zannides Book Instagram Website Full episode Further resources from me Sign up for the Write Stuff newsletter here. My book, ‘Dare to Write: How to Write a Nonfiction Book to Grow Your Business,’ is available now on Amazon and on my website. Connect with Steph: Website: https://stephcaswell.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/stephcaswellauthor/?hl=en LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stephcaswell/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/creatinghappywriters If you enjoyed today’s episode, please leave a review on your favourite podcast platform.

    43 min
  2. S3: Ep 76: Trusting Your Creative Voice - with Amber Byers

    9 DÉC.

    S3: Ep 76: Trusting Your Creative Voice - with Amber Byers

    Have you ever had that gut feeling that it's time to make a change but struggled to trust your intuition? Or wondered what it would take to pursue that creative dream you've had since childhood?   You’ll definitely want to listen to this episode with my guest, Amber Byers.   Amber is the head judge of the Tadpole Press 100-Word Writing Contest, an international writing contest celebrating creativity and community. She blogs regularly at Living a Life Imagined, which is dedicated to positivity and authenticity. Amber’s published works include The Magic Door Origin Story, a sci-fi story inspired by her childhood, and Sophie and Spot, which won a Gold Medal from Moonbeam Children’s Book Awards.   During this inspiring conversation, we explore:   Amber's transition from law to writing after realising her true passion lay in creativity rather than legal work How to trust your gut instincts when making creative decisions and distinguish between fear and genuine intuition The importance of allowing yourself to be playful and imperfect in first drafts, free from external expectations Why finding the right writing community is crucial for growth and how to handle negative criticism constructively Amber's role as a diversity editor specialising in Native American representation in literature Why maintaining creative space and reconnecting with your authentic voice matters more than achieving perfection   I thoroughly enjoyed having this conversation with Amber; it offers such valuable insights for anyone looking to embrace their creative calling, build confidence in their writing, and find joy in the creative process.   I hope you enjoy listening.   Connect with Amber and her books: Website   Further resources from me My book, ‘Dare to Write: How to Write a Nonfiction Book to Grow Your Business,’ is available now on Amazon or directly via my website.   Connect with Steph: Website: https://stephcaswell.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/stephcaswellauthor/?hl=en LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stephcaswell/   If you enjoyed today’s episode, please leave a review on your favourite podcast platform.   Listen to all previous podcast episodes on my website via the podcast platforms below or by searching for 'Creating Happy Writers' on your favourite podcast provider.

    49 min
  3. S3 Ep75: Your Personality on Paper: Unlocking Your Writing Voice

    2 DÉC.

    S3 Ep75: Your Personality on Paper: Unlocking Your Writing Voice

    Understanding our writer’s voice can feel tricky. After all, we want to sound as though we know what we’re talking about, but with that comes the risk of sounding a little dull or dry.  After all, when reading your favourite books, one thing that keeps you turning the pages is the author’s voice, right? So, when writing your book, you’ll want to be sure you’re sharing your unique writing voice, too.  But how do you do it? How can you sound like…well…yourself? Throughout this special, RE-RELEASED episode, I’ll share seven simple ways to discover your writing voice so you feel confident your readers will keep turning the pages of your book. You’ll learn: How a simple personality exercise can help find the differences and similarities between your everyday voice and your writing voice A tool you can use that doesn’t require any writing at all - and we’ve all got easy access to it! Simple yet crucial research to help you sound more like yourself and less like an imitation of other authors - no matter how incredible they may be - and why I think it’s perfectly acceptable to write how you speak. Remember, your writing voice is your personality on paper. Don’t try to squash it or hide it away - embrace it and let it shine through for your audience to see. It will keep them coming back for more. I hope you enjoy this episode!  Further resources: Buy a copy of Julia Cameron’s book - The Artist’s Way - here and learn more about Morning Pages. If you enjoyed today’s episode, please leave a review on your favourite podcast platform: Apple Spotify Amazon Subscribe to my fortnightly newsletter - The Write Stuff - which is full of advice on writing and publishing a book in your niche. Download my FREE PDF - 5 Steps to Plan a Bestselling Book in Your Niche Steph’s books: Dare to Write: How to Write a Non-Fiction Book to Grow Your Business - Amazon Dare to Write: How to Write a Non-Fiction Book to Grow Your Business - Website Connect with Steph: Website: https://stephcaswell.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/stephcaswellauthor/?hl=en LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stephcaswell/ Use #creatinghappywriters Listen to all previous podcast episodes on my website, via the podcast platforms below or by searching for 'Creating Happy Writers' on your favourite podcast provider. Apple Podcasts  Spotify Amazon Music *Disclaimer: if you buy a copy of a book I have linked to in these show notes, I’ll receive a small commission as an Amazon affiliate. If you’d rather buy your books elsewhere, I completely understand.

    13 min
  4. S3 Ep74: Creating a Writing Space You Love

    25 NOV.

    S3 Ep74: Creating a Writing Space You Love

    Creating the perfect writing space is often seen as a major barrier to writing success. In this episode, I challenge the myth of the perfect writing environment and explore how any space can become your creative sanctuary. Listen to this episode to discover: Why waiting for the perfect space will hold you back from achieving your writing goals How consistent writing spaces train your brain for better productivity How setting boundaries during writing time protects your creative space  The importance of making your space inviting (without falling into the perfectionism trap) How creating a dedicated writing space shifts your author identity Creating your perfect writing space isn't about having a Pinterest-worthy setup or a cabin in the woods. It's about establishing a consistent, comfortable environment that signals to your brain it's time to write.  Whether that's a corner of your kitchen table or a local coffee shop, the key is to show up and make it yours. Remember, the best writing space is the one you'll actually use! Enjoy! Further resources from me Sign up for the Write Stuff newsletter here. My book, ‘Dare to Write: How to Write a Nonfiction Book to Grow Your Business,’ is available now on Amazon and on my website. Connect with Steph: Website: https://stephcaswell.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/stephcaswellauthor/?hl=en LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stephcaswell/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/creatinghappywriters If you enjoyed today’s episode, please leave a review on your favourite podcast platform: Apple Spotify Amazon Listen to all previous podcast episodes on my website via the podcast platforms below or by searching for 'Creating Happy Writers' on your favourite podcast provider. Apple Podcasts  Spotify Amazon Music

    23 min
  5. S3 Ep73: Navigating Writing Through Perimenopause and Menopause

    18 NOV.

    S3 Ep73: Navigating Writing Through Perimenopause and Menopause

    For female entrepreneurs and experts writing their books, there's one challenge that rarely gets discussed: how hormonal changes can impact everything from our writing routine to our confidence in sharing our expertise. So, in today’s episode, I’m sharing my experience, as well as ideas, to help you keep writing through it all. You’ll discover: The unexpected ways hormones can impact our writing process - from brain fog and fatigue to confidence shifts Why rest isn't just 'nice to have' but essential for your creativity  Practical strategies for adapting your writing practice during hormonal changes - including energy management, nutrition tips, and creating the right environment My personal experience with perimenopausal symptoms and how it's affected my writing journey Why this isn't about "losing your edge" - but embracing a new phase of your creative life And so much more! Please remember that if you’ve ever sat down to write your business book, only to find your usual clarity and focus hijacked by hormonal changes, you're not alone. You're still an expert, still creative, still capable - you might just need some new strategies to support your writing journey. I hope you enjoy listening! Further resources from me Sign up for the Write Stuff newsletter here. My book, ‘Dare to Write: How to Write a Nonfiction Book to Grow Your Business,’ is available now on Amazon and on my website. Connect with Steph: Website: https://stephcaswell.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/stephcaswellauthor/?hl=en LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stephcaswell/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/creatinghappywriters If you enjoyed today’s episode, please leave a review on your favourite podcast platform: Apple Spotify Amazon Listen to all previous podcast episodes on my website via the podcast platforms below or by searching for 'Creating Happy Writers' on your favourite podcast provider. Apple Podcasts  Spotify Amazon Music

    39 min
  6. S3 Ep72: Let Your Story Roar - with Hilary Salzman

    11 NOV.

    S3 Ep72: Let Your Story Roar - with Hilary Salzman

    How often do you use storytelling in your business? Perhaps often. But how often do you share your story, and how does it make you feel when you do? For many small business owners, it makes us feel vulnerable, and we lose confidence in using our voices in the way that feels right for us. Luckily, this month’s guest author is here to help us. Hilary Salzman is a business storyteller, writer, podcast host, and speaker dedicated to helping female business owners who struggle to use their voices and tell their stories confidently.  Her debut nonfiction book, ‘The Roar of Her Story—How To Tell Everyday Stories to Attract Your Dream Clients and Build a Business That’s Unapologetically You,’ reflects a much-needed shift from #girlboss culture towards a more authentic, fulfilling approach to business.  It encourages women to set their own personal benchmarks for success, empowers them to make meaningful life changes and provides practical advice on building a brand story that reflects their true selves. During our fantastic conversation, we talk about: Why do more women in business need to use storytelling on the regs, and why can we feel so vulnerable to doing so? How we can overcome the fear and start to tell our stories to our customers and clients - in a way that feels right for us and benefits our businesses! Why our past experiences can impact how we show up and talk about ourselves and our businesses - and what the younger generation may be doing differently on this front! Hilary’s publishing journey and how she finally found the right ‘home’ for her book with a publisher who really 'got' what she was trying to do with her book. Why it’s so important to build a writing team to support you but recognising that this group of people needs to be carefully curated to avoid derailing your progress! And so much more! This is a brilliant conversation - one of my all-time favourites, actually - and so I hope you enjoy listening to it as much as I loved having it. Connect with Hilary and her book: Book Instagram Website Further resources from me My book, ‘Dare to Write: How to Write a Nonfiction Book to Grow Your Business,’ is available now on Amazon or directly via my website. Ways to work with Steph  Connect with Steph: Website: https://stephcaswell.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/stephcaswellauthor/?hl=en LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stephcaswell/ If you enjoyed today’s episode, please leave a review on your favourite podcast platform: Apple Spotify Amazon Listen to all previous podcast episodes on my website via the podcast platforms below or by searching for 'Creating Happy Writers' on your favourite podcast provider. Apple Podcasts  Spotify Amazon Music

    1 h 5 min
  7. S3 Ep71: Creative Courage: Why Sharing Your Writing Feels Scary (And Why You Should Do It Anyway)

    4 NOV.

    S3 Ep71: Creative Courage: Why Sharing Your Writing Feels Scary (And Why You Should Do It Anyway)

    You know that moment when someone asks to read your writing and suddenly you have a hundred reasons why it's "not quite ready"?  Your throat gets a little tight, and you sheepishly shut your laptop before anything can be read. Yup, we’ve all been there. But here's the thing - that uncomfortable feeling isn't just normal, it's necessary.  And today, in this special re-released episode, I’ll show you why embracing it might be the best thing you ever do for your writing, including: Why we really feel vulnerable as writers - and Brené Brown's fascinating research on connection, worthiness and belonging The powerful combination of courage and self-compassion - and why "good enough" beats “perfect” every time Practical ways to start sharing your work (even when it feels scary!) - from small steps to building authentic confidence A personal story that might just change how you think about sharing your writing! I hope you enjoy this episode and that it gives you the courage and motivation to start sharing your work with others. Further resources from me Sign up for the Write Stuff newsletter here. My book, ‘Dare to Write: How to Write a Nonfiction Book to Grow Your Business,’ is available now on Amazon and on my website. Connect with Steph: Website: https://stephcaswell.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/stephcaswellauthor/?hl=en LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stephcaswell/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/creatinghappywriters If you enjoyed today’s episode, please leave a review on your favourite podcast platform: Apple Spotify Amazon Listen to all previous podcast episodes on my website via the podcast platforms below or by searching for 'Creating Happy Writers' on your favourite podcast provider. Apple Podcasts  Spotify Amazon Music

    9 min
  8. S3 Ep70: 10 Principles That Changed My Writing Life (And Could Change Yours!)

    28 OCT.

    S3 Ep70: 10 Principles That Changed My Writing Life (And Could Change Yours!)

    Every writer needs a compass to guide their journey. In this episode, we explore the power of personal writing principles and how they can transform your writing practice from scattered to structured, from overwhelming to achievable. After a decade of writing and publishing, I'm sharing the ten principles that have shaped my writing journey - not as a rigid rulebook but as inspiration for developing your own unique approach to writing. In this episode, you'll discover: Why consistency matters more than inspiration (and why 30 minutes a day is enough!) The importance of reading widely - beyond your genre - to develop your unique voice How to handle the reality that not everyone will love your writing (and why that's perfectly okay) Why treating your writing like marathon training can lead to better results The power of celebrating small wins along your writing journey How to keep writing when you're stuck (hint: sometimes "blah blah blah" is perfectly acceptable!) Why your friends and family's response to your writing shouldn't define your success The crucial balance between dedication and enjoyment in your writing practice Remember, these principles aren't a one-size-fits-all solution. They're a starting point for developing your own North Star that will light up your unique writing path. Whether you're writing your first book or your fifteenth, having clear principles can help you navigate the challenges and celebrate the victories of your writing journey. Enjoy! Further resources from me Sign up for the Write Stuff newsletter here. My book, ‘Dare to Write: How to Write a Nonfiction Book to Grow Your Business,’ is available now on Amazon. Listen to the episodes about AI here and here Listen to the episode with Natalya Androsova here Bird by Bird - by Anne Lamott - buy here Connect with Steph: Website: https://stephcaswell.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/stephcaswellauthor/?hl=en LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stephcaswell/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/creatinghappywriters If you enjoyed today’s episode, please leave a review on your favourite podcast platform: Apple Spotify Amazon Listen to all previous podcast episodes on my website via the podcast platforms below or by searching for 'Creating Happy Writers' on your favourite podcast provider. Apple Podcasts  Spotify Amazon Music

    19 min

Notes et avis

À propos

If you're writing a non-fiction or business book, The Creating Happy Writers Podcast is here to inspire, educate and empower you with the tools you need to make your writing journey a happy and successful one. Each week, we dive into what it takes to write and publish a book in your niche that will not only help you become a go-to expert but also one you can be truly proud of.

Vous aimeriez peut‑être aussi

Pour écouter des épisodes au contenu explicite, connectez‑vous.

Recevez les dernières actualités sur cette émission

Connectez‑vous ou inscrivez‑vous pour suivre des émissions, enregistrer des épisodes et recevoir les dernières actualités.

Choisissez un pays ou une région

Afrique, Moyen‑Orient et Inde

Asie‑Pacifique

Europe

Amérique latine et Caraïbes

États‑Unis et Canada