The Rewrite with Sammy

Sammy Hyde
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The publishing industry is notoriously elusive. On The Rewrite, we are pulling back the curtain and rewriting our understanding of the industry by speaking to those in the know. Join host Sammy Hyde for candid conversations with literary agents, authors, editors, and publishing insiders. Whether you are querying your first book, wondering what it's actually like to be published, or just want to know how a book gets made, this podcast is your insider's guide to the publishing world.

Episodes

  1. How to Build an Audience: Content Strategy & SEO Secrets from a Top Newsroom Leader - Emily Heward

    4d ago

    How to Build an Audience: Content Strategy & SEO Secrets from a Top Newsroom Leader - Emily Heward

    How do you turn newsroom instincts into actionable audience insights? In this episode, we sit down with the Head of What’s On at Reach PLC (the UK’s largest news publisher) to uncover the editorial secrets behind growing massive, highly engaged audiences. With 16 years of journalism experience, managing a team of 30 across 37 regional news brands, Emily reveals what it takes to build content that truly connects. Whether you are an author, creator, or media professional, you will learn how to blend a sharp nose for storytelling with data-driven SEO and analytics expertise to scale your reach. Main topics include: The role of books in fostering empathy and mental well-being in today's digital-heavy worldHow authors can develop their unique voice and build a genuine platformThe importance of trust and relationship-building in the attention economyStrategies for shifting readers to subscription models and cultivating engaged communitiesThe impact of evolving media formats, including TikTok and newsletters, on book promotionChallenges and opportunities in book coverage and publishing trendsPersonal insights on success, diversity, and boldness in media leadership Timestamps: 00:01 - Introduction to Emily Heward's background and expertise 00:23 - The significance of books in today’s crowded attention economy 01:04 - The value of storytelling and empathy through reading 01:38 - Advice for authors on building their authentic voice 02:20 - How to connect with readers through genuine content 03:16 - Finding your voice: the importance of authenticity vs. emulation 04:12 - Using data and instincts to refine content strategies 05:06 - When to pivot in content creation based on engagement 06:18 - Building a public persona versus letting the work speak 07:43 - The importance of trust and human connection in media 08:38 - The challenge of short attention spans and building engaged communities 09:42 - Moving from platform renting to building a loyal following 10:10 - How strong opinions and newsletters can support subscription growth 1 2:11 - The current state and evolution of book coverage in media 13:49 - Innovative formats like serialized stories and niche newsletters 15:16 - The impact of media restructuring and the rise of niche publishing 17:23 - Rapid fire questions - personal reading preferences 20:42 - Reflection on rewriting assumptions about publishing success 21:34 - Emily's experiences with women in leadership roles 23:07 - The importance of diversity in storytelling and media 24:08 - Notable book coverage: investigative journalism 26:02 - Trend ideas for future books based on current social media debates 27:18 - Emily’s advice for aspiring authors: be bold and proactive 28:41 - Final words and encouragement to take opportunities boldly If you found this episode valuable, please like, subscribe, and leave a 5-star review! #ContentStrategy #AudienceGrowth #EditorialLeadership #Journalism #SEO #DigitalMedia #Storytelling #ReachPLC #MediaTrends #AuthorTips

    29 min
  2. Writer & Editor Abbie Gatherum on building a social media platform & going viral

    Jun 10

    Writer & Editor Abbie Gatherum on building a social media platform & going viral

    Building a social media platform as a writer? Writer & editor, Abbie Gatherum, has you covered! Ever wondered what it really takes to grow a loyal community of readers and writers? Abbie explains that authenticity is the secret sauce — showing up as yourself, sharing your experience, even your struggles, creates genuine connections. It’s not about perfection; it’s about being real and relatable. That’s what draws people in and keeps them coming back. Abbie shares her process, failures and wins, and helps others see they’re not alone in this journey. When you just show up like a best friend — no hype, just honesty — you build a community that feels like home. We also talk the Sad Romance genre - what is it, and why you'll be obsessed! Would you start sharing more of your real writer life? Drop your thoughts below! #AuthorLife #WritingCommunity #BuildYourBrand #SadRomanceVibes #AuthenticContent

    37 min
  3. Author Turner Gable Kahn on her Debut Novel & Publishing Experience

    May 26

    Author Turner Gable Kahn on her Debut Novel & Publishing Experience

    Turner Gable Kahn discusses her debut novel, 'The Dirty Version,' and shares insights into the literary romance genre, querying experience, traditional publishing, book marketing, and post-publication experiences. We chat about unexpected experiences, Turner's next novel, and her nomination for the Romance Novel of the Year award, as well as advice for aspiring authors. Takeaways Insights into the literary romance genreChallenges and experiences in traditional publishing Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Book Nominations05:57 Writing Process and Marketing Challenges11:53 Publishing Journey and NetGalley Experience18:03 Unexpected Experiences and Reading Recommendations23:53 Highs and Lows of Being Published30:01 Reflections and Parting Advice

    34 min
  • 3 Episodes

About

The publishing industry is notoriously elusive. On The Rewrite, we are pulling back the curtain and rewriting our understanding of the industry by speaking to those in the know. Join host Sammy Hyde for candid conversations with literary agents, authors, editors, and publishing insiders. Whether you are querying your first book, wondering what it's actually like to be published, or just want to know how a book gets made, this podcast is your insider's guide to the publishing world.

Information

  • Creator
    Sammy Hyde
  • Years Active
    2K
  • Episodes
    3
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Sammy Hyde
  • Show Website
    The Rewrite with Sammy