"Untitled" Work in Podcast

Most writers struggle with staying inspired and overcoming the fear of not knowing enough, until they discover the secret mindset shift that transforms their approach to social media, marketing, and publishing. If you're feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or unsure how to stand out in a noisy industry, this episode reveals why embracing your authenticity and viewing failure as trial and error is your...

Most authors overlook the real secret to building a thriving career: understanding your audience and showing up authentically. Want to discover how to craft social media that attracts, engages, and converts? This episode unlocks the hidden mindset shifts and tactical tweaks that can transform your author brand — without feeling salesy or overwhelming. Imagine growing your readership organically by...

Most authors overlook crowdfunding as the game-changing tool it really is. Ira Brand, a Kickstarter expert with over 30 successful campaigns and a member of Kickstarter’s Creator Advisory Council, reveals how indie writers can harness the platform’s true potential, as well as how to avoid some common pitfalls to position your project for the best outcome.  Don’t worry if you’re asking yourself, wh...

Most authors underestimate the importance of owning their online presence. Marya Nguyen, founder of Yangu Web Studio, unpacks why having a strategic website is crucial and how DIY mistakes can trip you up long-term. If you're feeling overwhelmed by the technical side or worried about hidden pitfalls, this episode reveals some areas writers can own when it comes to building their website. Marya...

In this episode, Darcy and Lauren explore the nuances of networking, social media, and building genuine connections within the writing and creative communities. They share practical tips, personal stories, and insights on overcoming social anxiety, leveraging social platforms, and fostering authentic relationships. Most writers and creators dread networking because it feels awkward or insincere. B...

Most aspiring bookstore owners and indie authors underestimate one vital ingredient: community engagement. Kristen Rochelle, owner of the Lazy Daisy Bookshop, shares how her journey from non-reader to beloved local hotspot can inspire you to build authentic connections that drive foot traffic, sales, and a thriving literary community, all without relying solely on traditional marketing. In this ca...

Lauren and Darcy explore how your storytelling approach must evolve as you shift between formats—whether you’re crafting a novel, a film, a social media post, or a poem. Discover why elements like color symbolism and internal monologue can make or break your story depending on the medium, and how frameworks like Save the Cat give you the structure to succeed in both novels and screenplays. Imagine...

Are you a self-published author curious, or maybe even overwhelmed, by the world of audiobook production and narration? This episode is your essential guide to unlocking the power of audiobooks for indie authors! Join us as we sit down with Candace Fitzgerald, an award-winning audiobook narrator and voice actor with over 100 titles narrated for both independent authors and major publishing houses...

Do you ever wonder if your characters are truly consistent or if they’re evolving in ways you didn’t expect? In this episode, indie debut authors Darcy and Lauren pull back the curtain on the co-writing process to reveal how character evolution is not just possible, but essential for authentic storytelling. Discover how their protagonist Matilda transformed dramatically from early drafts, and how...

Did you know that literary agents like Jessica Berg of Rosecliff Literary are valuable partners for every author? Not just those pursuing traditional publishing! In this episode, we dive deep into the world of literary agents and explore the latest publishing trends, how to craft irresistible comp titles, and why avoiding "schmagents" is crucial for your writing journey. Jessica, founder...

Indie authors know that social media marketing can feel like a maze. In this episode, Lauren and Darcy reveal how a simple shift in their approach to author branding helped them stand out online, even if that shift happened by accident! Listen in as they share some hilarious (and cringe-worthy) tech mishaps, proving that sometimes you just have to laugh and keep moving forward. Plus, get the lates...

Ready to unravel the publishing process and elevate your manuscript? In this episode, we sit down with Lauren Grange, a seasoned editor whose career spans the Big Five publishing houses and the indie author world. Lauren shares her expert perspective on every stage of editing from copy editing, line editing, proofreading, and the often-misunderstood "cold read" that traditional publisher...

In this episode, Lauren and Darcy dive into the real writing journey of indie authors, sharing the ups, downs, and everything in between. They get honest about the challenges indie authors face, from juggling deadlines and responsibilities to figuring out effective marketing for authors. If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by your to-do list or wondered how other writers manage the chaos, this episode...

Did you know that successful indie authors rely on more than just developmental editing? In this must-listen episode, seasoned developmental editor Amanda Ascencio, with over 12 years of experience, dives deep into the essential roles of production editing, copy editing, and line editing within the publishing process. Amanda unpacks the differences between these editing styles, shares why each one...

Join hosts Lauren and Darcy in this engaging episode of the Untitled Work In Podcast as they dive deep into the art of storytelling, focusing on the writing challenges and narrative techniques behind flashbacks and time jumps. Discover how these powerful tools can shape character development and enhance your own writing projects. Lauren and Darcy share real-life examples from popular media, discus...

Unlock the secrets of standout book cover design in this episode featuring Emmy-nominated artist and renowned cover designer Sasha Vinogradova. Dive deep into the world of art direction as Sasha reveals how publishing houses and indie authors alike can harness expert insight to turn an author’s vision into a captivating cover that sells. Discover why trusting your designer or art director is essen...

Are you feeling stuck at the very beginning of your novel? You’re not alone! In this episode, we dive deep into the writing process, focusing on the challenges of starting a novel, especially when adapting existing source material. We explore how to develop compelling characters, craft strong openings, and strike the perfect balance between humor and serious themes. Plus, we discuss the essential...

DISCLAIMER: Nobody on this show is a financial or legal advisor, nor are they giving financial or legal advice. Please consult a financial or legal professional regarding any questions. The information shared in this video is only intended anecdotally. In this episode, Darcy and Lauren chat with indie author Kelly Scriven to break down the very real, and often overwhelming, financial side of indep...

Curious about emotional beats in storytelling and how they can transform your work in progress? In this episode, we break down what emotional beats are, how they differ from traditional story beats, and why understanding them is essential for every storyteller. Whether you’re refining your current manuscript or seeking fresh writing insights, you’ll learn practical tips to identify and use emotion...

In this episode of the Untitled Work in Progress podcast, co-hosts Lauren and Darcy break down essential writing tips for mastering story outlining and world-building. Whether you’re a planner or a pantser, they explore how a strong story outline can unlock your creativity, help you hit important story beats, and guide your character development. Discover how world-building shapes your narrative a...

In this episode, Darcy & Lauren dive deep into the debate between indie and traditional publishing, focusing on crucial topics like creative control, marketing challenges, and the exciting dream of a book-to-movie adaptation. Drawing from their own journeys and the wider writing community, they candidly share the pros and cons of each publishing path, from maintaining artistic vision to facing...

Join us as we dive into essential storytelling techniques to elevate our characters depth! In this episode, we reveal how to transform flat characters into fascinating, multidimensional personalities using a character bible. Discover what makes your characters truly tick and how small details can make a huge impact, not just for you as a writer, but for your readers too. Whether you’re a pantser w...

Happy New Year, writers! Kick off Season 2 with us as we dive into the wild world of Zom-Rom-Com, a new subgenre that's about to shake up your TBR list. In this exciting episode, we reveal our plans for 2026, including the journey to finishing our highly anticipated debut novel, 'Unholy Vows,' set for release at the end of the year. Discover how this unique Zom-Rom-Com project brought...

Join co-hosts Lauren and Darcy for a heartfelt season finale as they revisit the most memorable moments from their podcasts rookie season. In this episode, they dive into the creative process behind the podcast, share laughter and lessons learned, and highlight the importance of capturing memories along the way. Reflect with them on the journey, discover behind-the-scenes stories, and get inspired...

Join Lauren and Darcy as they take you behind the scenes of co-writing their upcoming novella! In this episode, they share how honest feedback has shaped their creative process, the unique challenges and rewards of collaboration, and what it’s really like to work together toward publication. Discover their tips for effective co-writing, the editing process, and how feedback has fueled their storyt...