Tough Love Publishing

Writing the book is only half the job. In this episode, we sit down with Seth Norris to break down the most common business mistakes authors make — from mismanaging money to chasing trends, ignoring data, and building without a long-term strategy. If you want a sustainable writing career, this is the reality check you didn’t know you needed. Thanks to our friends at Written Word Media for sponsori...

Sometimes the problem isn’t your writing — it’s the market you’re trying to fit into. In this episode, we unpack how to recognize when a genre, trope, or niche isn’t aligned with your strengths, your voice, or your long-term goals. We talk about signs you’re forcing yourself into the wrong market, how to pivot without losing momentum, how to rebuild an audience, and how to make business decisions...

Your newsletter is the most powerful tool you have as an author — but only if you know how to use it. In this episode, we’re breaking down the strategies that actually work: how to grow your list, what to send (and what NOT to send), and how to convert subscribers into real fans. We talk welcome sequences, segmentation, reader engagement, automation, newsletter swaps, and how to avoid the common m...

Most authors think about their next book — not their long-term future. But your intellectual property is an asset, and planning for retirement and your estate is one of the smartest business moves you can make. In this episode, we break down what authors need to know about retirement options, saving on an unpredictable income, and how to protect your books legally so your family (or chosen heirs)...

Paying yourself shouldn’t feel confusing or impossible — but for most indie authors, it is. In this episode, we break down how to treat your writing like a real business, from separating finances to setting up sustainable pay systems. Whether you're earning $50 or $50,000, you can pay yourself like a professional. Resources: Profit First by Mike Michalowicz www.amazon.com/dp/B0C9NPP4ZQ Seth No...

Your book launch doesn’t have to be chaos. In this episode, we’re talking about how to plan, pace, and execute a launch that builds momentum without burning you out. From timelines and preorders to promo stacking and newsletter strategy, this is your roadmap for doing launches the smart way. Whether you’re publishing your first book or your fiftieth, these practical tips will help you focus on wha...

Promotions don’t have to be random or overwhelming. In this episode, we break down what makes a promo successful — from timing and audience targeting to newsletter swaps, ads, and social strategy. Learn how to create consistent, repeatable promo wins. Thanks to Ferol from Written Word Media for joining us and discussing all things promos! Check out our sponsors Written Word Media for more help for...

Writing with a chronic illness comes with unique challenges — and incredible resilience. In this heartfelt episode, we talk about balancing creativity and health, managing expectations, and redefining productivity when your body has limits. Thank you to our friends at Written Word Media for sponsoring this season. Check them out at www.writtenwordmedia.com Resources: Podcast: You Can Afford Anythi...

Every choice in your author career comes from one of two places — growth or fear. In this episode, we unpack how fear disguises itself as logic, how to recognize when you’re self-sabotaging, and how to make confident, growth-driven moves for your writing and business. Thank you to our friends at Written Word Media who helped make this episode possible. If you haven't already, please visit thei...

Burnout doesn’t mean the end of your author career — it’s a sign you need to rebuild differently. In this episode, we’re joined by author and speaker Tracey Delaney to talk about the realities of burnout, the warning signs we often miss, and the small, realistic steps that can help you recover your creative spark. ⚠️ Trigger Warning: This episode includes sensitive discussion around mental health,...

Is there a “right” way to write a book? In this episode, we challenge the myths around writing techniques, share what truly matters in storytelling, and help you find the process that fits your style instead of forcing someone else’s. Thank you to our sponsor Written Word Media! Find out how they can help you: www.writtenwordmedia.com Resources: The Survival Kit for Writers Who Can't Write Rig...

Publishing isn’t a sprint — it’s a marathon. In this episode, we explore what “sustainable publishing” really means, from managing your writing pace to avoiding burnout, setting realistic goals, and balancing creativity with business. Sponsored by Written Word Mediawww.writtenwordmedia.comResources:Notion: https://www.notion.com/Follow Us:Facebook: https://tinyurl.com/toughlovepublishingFacebookIn...

If your book isn’t selling, it’s not always about the story — it’s often about strategy. We break down the most common reasons books fail to find readers, from poor cover design and unclear branding to targeting the wrong audience. Plus, practical steps you can take today to improve your sales. Sponsored by our friends at Written Word Media. www.writtenwordmedia.com Resources: Kindle Trends: https...

Are you overwhelmed by all the conflicting advice for authors? In this episode, we talk about discovering who you are as a writer, building confidence in your creative identity, and learning which advice to follow — and which to leave behind. Sponsored by our friends at Written Word Media .