Creating Happy Writers

In this final episode of Season 3, I’m taking you behind the scenes for a little business declutter - Marie Kondo style. This solo episode is part honest reflection, part permission slip. Because after a brilliant season of conversations with authors, creatives and publishing pros, I’ve found myself craving more space, more simplicity… and fewer 'shoulds'. So I’m tidying up. That includes how I work, how I show up - and yes, even how I podcast. Here’s what I’m unpacking in this final episode of the season: Why I’m “Marie Kondoing” my business (and what’s getting the chop) A round-up of Season 3, from standout guests to big lessons What I’ve learned about showing up, being visible, and sustaining creativity Why some offers are going in storage—and which ones are getting pride of place What’s next for the podcast I also share details of The Big Summer Write Along—a 30-day challenge starting August 1st to help you finally get that book moving. Think: daily audio coaching, bite-sized prompts, and serious momentum (without the burnout). If you’ve been feeling the nudge to simplify, step back, or just rethink how your book fits in your life—this one’s for you. I hope you enjoy listening. Further resources: The Big Summer Writealong - info and sign up here Sign up for the FREE 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/ If you enjoyed today’s episode, please leave a review on your favourite podcast platform!

Have you ever wondered what really happens after you publish your book, and how to keep the momentum going long after launch day? In this episode, I’m delighted to welcome Sara Dalrymple BACK to the podcast. My first-ever returning guest - and one of the most popular! Sara is a speaker, educator, and thought leader on the art of selling yourself as a personal brand. Recognised for her bold, forward-thinking approach to sales, Sara has spent over a decade helping ambitious women in creative entrepreneurship show up unapologetically. Her frameworks have empowered thousands of business owners to speak with conviction and make money without burning out. She’s the author of the bestselling book More Sales Please, and has delivered training in communities like Roundhouse, General Assembly and Found and Flourish. Sara is a sought-after guest on podcasts where she shares her refreshingly honest take on the power of self-promotion. In this conversation, we explore: Navigating the first year after launch: Why Sara chose to think of her launch as a 12-month project, and how that mindset shift kept her motivated to keep promoting. Unexpected opportunities: The surprising doors the book has opened — from speaking invitations to new client work Sara hadn’t even planned for. Making it easy for supporters to help: How Sara created simple, step-by-step guides so her launch team knew exactly how to spread the word. Longevity over hype: The importance of letting your book have a long tail, instead of feeling pressured to jump into the next big thing. Creating spaciousness and clarity: Why stepping back from social media helped Sara reconnect with her message and see where her book sits in the bigger picture of her work. If you’ve ever wondered how to keep your book visible - and how to let it keep working for you - this conversation will leave you feeling inspired, encouraged, and ready to take the long view. I hope you enjoy listening. Connect with Sara and her book: More Sales Please (book) Sara’s website Instagram 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: Apple Spotify Amazon

When life falls apart, where do you begin putting yourself back together? In this episode of the Creating Happy Writers podcast, I chat to Dr Laura Williams. Laura is a clinical psychologist, private therapist, trauma specialist, online course creator, and media contributor.  She is also a widow and mum, who had to put all her psychological expertise into practice when faced with the sudden death of her much-loved husband. Her book, ‘What to Do When You Feel Broken’, was published by Hay House in February 2025. In this brilliant book, Laura uses her own personal story to illustrate key psychological concepts we can all benefit from applying to our own lives. In this conversation, we explore: Why writing can be such a powerful tool for healing and self-understanding The hidden impact of generational trauma and how it shows up in our lives What perfectionism is really trying to protect us from How to create a writing practice that feels sustainable—even when life is messy The realities of getting a traditional publishing deal and building momentum as a first-time author Laura’s story is a beautiful reminder that you don’t have to be perfectly healed to help others - and that you are never as alone as you think. I hope you enjoy listening. Connect with Laura and her book: What To Do When You Feel Broken (book) Laura’s website Instagram 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: Apple Spotify Amazon

Have you ever wondered what really goes on behind the scenes of a major indie publishing event — and what non-fiction writers can learn from the world of fiction authors? In this episode, I’m sharing my top takeaways from the Self Publishing Show Live in London. While the event is primarily aimed at fiction authors, I came away with so many ideas and insights that are just as valuable if you’re writing a business book or self-help title, especially around marketing, mindset, and staying connected to your readers. In this episode, you’ll hear about: Why story is your greatest tool for hooking readers — and how to give people a reason to root for you or your clients The many paths to publishing success, including hybrid deals, translation rights, and exclusive Amazon programmes like KDP Select What to know about Kindle Unlimited, expanded distribution, and direct sales — and why it pays to think carefully about where you want your book to live The importance of showing up where your readers already are (even if that means dusting off your Facebook login) How authors are using AI tools to save time, organise content, and protect their intellectual property Why TikTok has become such a powerful platform for selling books (and how to train the algorithm before you post your first video) The power of boundaries, gratitude and habits when you want to write more and feel happier doing it How one author is using direct sales and merchandise to build a thriving six-figure business If you’ve been thinking about publishing your own book — or you just love a behind-the-scenes peek at the writing life — I hope these insights will inspire you to explore what feels possible for you. I hope you enjoy listening. Further resources: Sign up for the FREE 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/ If you enjoyed today’s episode, please leave a review on your favourite podcast platform!

Have you ever felt like you’re running on empty, but still trying to write, create, and keep all the plates spinning? In this episode of Creating Happy Writers, I chat with the brilliant Hazel Anderson Turner — psychologist, coach, and author of Coaching Through Burnout. Hazel brings a grounded, compassionate voice to a topic that so many of us quietly carry: burnout.  Especially the kind that creeps in when we care deeply about our work, our people, and our purpose. Hazel has worked extensively within the NHS and public sector, leading coaching programmes focused on resilience, wellbeing, and — eventually — burnout prevention. Her book was born out of lived experience and a deep desire to help others recognise the signs, intervene early, and stay well while doing meaningful work. Hazel now supports individuals and organisations through coaching, workshops and consultancy — and in this conversation, she brings her full self to the mic: the psychologist, the business owner, the writer… and the human. In this episode, we explore: Why burnout often shows up in high-achieving, values-led people (yes, even the ones who “should know better” The difference between regular stress and real burnout — and how to spot the warning signs early How coaching can support burnout recovery — and protect your energy as a writer or business owner The hidden emotional load of running your own business, and how boundary-setting can be a radical act of self-care How Hazel approached writing her book without burning out — including the writing habits that made it sustainable (and even joyful) What to do when imposter syndrome shows up with “Who am I to write this?” — and why the way you feel while writing matters just as much as what you write Hazel’s take on writing is refreshing, honest, and beautifully encouraging. If you’ve ever stared at a blank screen feeling completely detached from your creative spark, this episode will meet you right there — and gently remind you what’s possible when you create from a place of ease. You’ll find links to Hazel’s book Coaching Through Burnout, her coaching work, and more in the show notes below. I hope you enjoy listening. Connect with Hazel and her book: Coaching Through Burnout (the book) Hazel’s website LinkedIn Instagram 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: Apple Spotify Amazon

You know the feeling. You’ve got a book inside you (maybe five), a business to run, and a to-do list that’s breeding overnight. But still, you want to write it. You want to finish it. You want to be that woman. The one who actually did it. This episode is a love letter (and a bit of a kick up the bum) to that version of you. I’m sharing the 10 traits that I’ve noticed in the women I work with who actually finish their books.  You’ll hear: Why self-discipline beats motivation every single time The exact traits that separate published authors from everyone else How to stop letting your emotions hijack your goals What real accountability looks like (spoiler: no more excuses) Why being honest with yourself is your biggest power move This isn’t another pep talk. It’s a mirror. If you’re tired of second-guessing, procrastinating, and waiting for the perfect conditions to create your best work, this is for you. Hit play, take what you need, and start leading yourself like you mean it. I hope you enjoy listening! Further resources: Sign up for the FREE 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/ If you enjoyed today’s episode, please leave a review on your favourite podcast platform!

This episode is a little different. And a little brilliant (if I do say so myself). Because for Episode 100, I’m flipping the mic — and being interviewed by someone who knows me almost better than I know myself! That someone is the utterly brilliant Kay Ribeiro — journalist, editor, scriptwriter, BAFTA judge and all-round creative powerhouse — and also one of my oldest (and dearest) friends.  She was given free rein over the questions, and what unfolded was a rather marvellous conversation. In this episode, we chat about: My earliest storytelling memories Leaving my career in teaching to chase the writing life The non-glamorous truth about writing book #1  What writing courses have taught me about rejection, resilience, and rewriting Why I went back to non-fiction when I’d lost my spark Imposter syndrome, perfectionism, comparisonitis — and how to wrangle them all with a pen Writing habits, word-count tracking, and my spreadsheet love affair My fiction WIP (yes, I’ve finally dusted it off) This isn’t just a podcast milestone — it’s a little time capsule of the last 100 episodes, the journey I’ve been on, and the creative lessons I’ve learned (sometimes the hard way). A big thank you for being here on this journey - I’m beyond grateful. I hope you enjoy listening. Connect with Kay: Instagram 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: Apple Spotify Amazon

Writing a book is a long game. There will be highs, lows and a few “why did I even start this?” days. But if you want to actually finish the thing (and enjoy the process a little more), there’s one thing that makes all the difference: your energy. In this episode, I’m talking about the power of being obsessed with your book — not in a tattoo-the-title-on-your-arm kind of way — but in a grounded, focused, I actually want to write this kind of way. In this episode, we explore: Why your energy literally shows up in your writing (and how readers can feel it) The neuroscience behind energy, focus and getting your book finished How to choose the right idea to stay emotionally connected to The big mindset shift that helped me pivot book #8 — and finally enjoy writing again Practical rituals, playlists and mood-boosting tricks to get back in the zone Why writing with other people (and not in isolation) is so important Whether you’re in the messy middle of your manuscript or still flirting with the idea of writing one, this episode is here to help you rekindle your spark — and maybe even fall back in love with your book a bit. I hope you enjoy listening. Further resources: Expert to Author - information Sign up for the FREE Write Stuff newsletter here. Happy Writers Hub - The Happy Writers Hub - all info and link to join are 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/ If you enjoyed today’s episode, please leave a review on your favourite podcast platform!

Is it burnout… or are you just ready for more? If you’ve built the business, served the clients, shared your expertise on every platform going — but now you’re craving more space, more depth, more meaning — it might not be a crisis. It might be your Author Era calling.  In this episode, I’m diving into why so many experienced, midlife female founders are feeling this exact shift — and why writing a book might be the most aligned next step you haven’t said out loud yet. We explore: The real reason short-form content is starting to feel stale Why it’s not that you’re out of ideas — it’s that your ideas need room How to know the difference between a passing thought and a true creative calling What your newsletters, podcasts and blog posts are quietly trying to tell you Why writing a book isn’t just about the message — it’s about who you become by writing it If you’ve been feeling that quiet-but-persistent nudge — to go deeper, to step up, to say what you really think — this one’s for you. Listen now and find out if it’s time to step into your Author Era. I hope you enjoy it! Further resources: Expert to Author - all the information is here Sign up for the FREE Write Stuff newsletter here. Happy Writers Hub - The Happy Writers Hub - all info and link to join are 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/ If you enjoyed today’s episode, please leave a review on your favourite podcast platform!

Is your book quietly (or loudly) refusing to leave you alone? That might not be a coincidence — it could be your soul trying to get a word in. In this episode of Creating Happy Writers, I chat with the brilliant Nicola Humber about what happens when writing a book becomes less of a strategic decision and more of a deep inner pull.  Nicola is the author of four transformational books, Heal Your Inner Good Girl, UNBOUND, Unbound Writing, and her most recent (published in 2025), ‘The Abundant Author Playbook’. She’s also the creator of the #unbound365 journal and founder of The Unbound Press, a soul-led publishing imprint for unbound women. After playing the archetypal good girl up until her mid-thirties, Nicola left her 'proper' job in finance to retrain as a coach and hypnotherapist, and this leap of faith led her to what she does now: activating recovering good girls to embrace their so-called imperfections and shake off the tyranny of 'shoulds', so they can be their fullest, freest, most magnificent selves. Nicola helps women write the book their Unbound Self is calling them to write, whilst growing a community of soul-family readers and clients. She's also the host of The Unbound Writer's Club podcast. In this episode, we explore: What it means to be a soul-led writer — and why your book might be part of your transformation, not just your reader’s Why writing from a place of should can quietly crush your joy How to navigate vulnerability (and unmet expectations) when your book meets the real world The silent bias still holding back female non-fiction authors — and what to do about it How the Unbound Press is rewriting the publishing experience — for good Writing a book isn’t just about getting published. It’s about finding your voice — and trusting it enough to be heard. So, whether you’re mid-draft, circling an idea, or sitting on a Word doc that hasn’t been opened in three months, Nicola’s wisdom will remind you why you started — and why your voice matters. I hope you enjoy listening. Connect with Nicola and her books: The Abundant Author Playbook The Unbound Press Website Nicola’s website  Instagram 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: Apple Spotify Amazon

What if your next right step feels completely out of character, yet completely right at the same time? In this solo episode, I’m pulling back the curtain on a decision that’s surprised even me: exploring traditional publishing for my next book.  Yes, me — the die-hard self-publishing advocate. Yes, the same person who tells you not to wait for permission. Have I had a personality transplant? No. Although I have had a very long think. In this episode, I share: Why I’m querying agents for my next non-fiction book — and what I hope to learn from the process How I’m navigating the “this happens to other people, not me” narrative What it really means to listen to your gut, especially when it tells you something unexpected Why I’m choosing to document the entire process — warts, wins, rejections and all. How I’m creating space for curiosity, detachment and real talk around the traditional publishing journey If you’ve ever wondered whether traditional publishing is your path, thought it was off-limits for “people like you”, or you’re just a bit nosy, this episode is for you. I hope you enjoy listening! Further resources: Sign up for the FREE Write Stuff newsletter here. Get Clear on Your Book Idea Session Info Happy Writers Hub - The Happy Writers Hub - all info and link to join are 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. Let’s connect! 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!

Have you ever felt like your life is too cluttered to make space for your writing? Do you wonder if there's a simpler way to live that would free up your creative energy? Well, this month’s guest and I talk about all of this - and so much more! Elisabeth McKetta is a storyteller and the author of thirteen books across genres, including "Edit Your Life" (2023). Her work includes numerous published poems, and she delivered the TEDx Boise talk, "Edit Your Life Like a Poem." Elisabeth holds degrees in literature from Harvard (B.A.), Georgetown (M.A.) and the University of Texas at Austin (Ph.d.). Her doctoral dissertation explored the fascinating intersections between memoir and myth, a concept that continues to inform her teaching, writing, and her entire approach to viewing the world.  She currently teaches for the Harvard Extension School Writing Program and Oxford University's Diploma in Creative Writing, and mentors a select group of writers each year through the Book Year Writers' Circle. During our brilliant conversation, Elisabeth and I explore the concept of editing not just our writing, but our lives to create space for creativity and purpose.  We discuss: The natural back-and-forth between creative seasons and the practical, business side of a writer's life How simplifying our lives—from our living spaces to our commitments—can free us to focus on what truly matters - including how she and her family made a radical decision to downsize from their large American house to a tiny 375-square-foot backyard structure that was originally built as her writing shed! Finding your personal creative rhythm and the courage to follow it, even when it goes against what everyone else is doing The power of small, consistent writing practices (even just 30 minutes a day) versus the myth of needing endless hours How dealing with other people's reactions when making big life changes can actually help us get clearer on what we really want I genuinely cannot wait for you to listen to this honest and insightful conversation about creating a life that supports your writing and creativity - it is, quite honestly, remarkable. Enjoy! Connect with Elisabeth and her books: Edit Your Life book 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: Apple Spotify Amazon

Writing a book without really knowing your reader’s journey is a bit of an insult to them - and can be THE thing that means they finish your book and love it… or they don’t. When you’re writing, sometimes you’re so wrapped up in what YOU want to write about that you almost forget the reader exists.  Now I’m pretty confident you’re not like that. But it’s easy to slip into writing a book without considering exactly how you'll take the reader on a journey of transformation and change. You’re brimming with ideas and knowledge; you just want to get it down on the page. And I get that. I really do.  But before you write, you have to get a clear idea of your reader and their journey. Not only does it make the book far more helpful for them to read, but it also makes it a lot easier for you to write, too. In this RE-RELEASED episode, you’ll learn: Why emotions have a MASSIVE impact on whether your reader will pick up your book - as well as some examples of books I’ve recently read for this exact reason! The three stages of your reader’s journey that you must consider when planning your book’s structure and why! A simple yet powerful activity that can help you put yourself in your reader’s shoes and consider the outcome you want them to have after reading your book. And so much more! Your reader MUST be at the heart of your book - it makes all the difference between a book that someone reads once and never opens again - and one that changes their life. So let’s get to know them and help them in the best way possible. I hope you enjoy listening! Further resources: Sign up for the FREE Write Stuff newsletter here. Happy Writers Hub - The Happy Writers Hub - all info and link to join are 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/ If you enjoyed today’s episode, please leave a review on your favourite podcast platform!

Ever felt like you've hit a ceiling in your business? Like you know you're an expert, but somehow you're not reaching the right people or making the impact you know you're capable of? In this episode, I share a recent conversation with one of my brilliant authors that sparked a major realisation about why we write books and what's really holding women back from claiming their expertise. I explore: Why wanting "more" in your business isn't selfish - it's about creating more space, clarity, visibility, and weight behind your expertise The frustrating reality of the "authority gap" for women - the space between our expertise and how seriously we're taken  Why so many brilliant women hold back and play small, feeling like they need "just one more qualification" before they can claim their space as an author How writing a book isn't about becoming an expert - you already ARE the expert - it's about helping everyone else catch up with that fact Why your book becomes the essential tool that opens doors to speaking gigs, higher-paying clients, media opportunities, and bigger platforms The truth is, we can't wait for permission to share our expertise. We are the generation breaking through that ceiling with our words, our knowledge, and our books. If you're tired of playing small and ready to level up, stop shouting into the void, and call in the right people, this episode is your kick up the bum to finally claim the space that only you can fill. Because while the system might have taught us to stay quiet and wait to be discovered, that's not how visibility works. Your book is the vehicle that helps you control your future and close that authority gap once and for all. I hope you enjoy listening.  Further resources from me Sign up for the FREE Write Stuff newsletter here. Happy Writers Hub - The Happy Writers Hub - all info and link to join are 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/ If you enjoyed today’s episode, please leave a review on your favourite podcast platform!

Is your book working as hard for your business as it should be? In this episode, I talk with book marketing strategist Melanie Herschorn about turning your expertise into a powerful authority-building tool. Melanie wants to help you step into your spotlight as an authority. A publisher and book marketing strategist for attorneys, wealth consultants, and business owners worldwide, she's on a mission to empower authors to share their message with the world. With her comprehensive background of over 20 years as a celebrity publicist, award-winning journalist in radio, print, and TV, clothing designer, and entrepreneur, Melanie is uniquely positioned to support authors in stepping into thought leadership and making a big impact with their book.  During our conversation, Melanie and I chat about: How her journalism background became her secret weapon - distilling client conversations into clarity without the fluff Why your book needs your unique stories - because in a world of AI-generated content, your personal experiences are what truly connect with readers Why consistency is the "granny panties of book marketing" - not sexy, but it's what actually keeps everything together The art of avoiding "launch trauma" by planning your marketing well before publication day, when you're already exhausted from the writing process Navigating the publishing industry with your eyes open to avoid the companies that promise the moon but deliver considerably less How your book can become a springboard to opportunities far beyond book sales - from speaking engagements to unexpected connections This was such a fantastic conversation - I know it’ll give you plenty to think about when it comes to marketing your book successfully. Big thanks to Melanie for her time.  Hope you enjoy listening!  Connect with Melanie and her book: Make a Big Impact with Your Book (Melanie’s book) Website LinkedIn 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: Apple Spotify Amazon

Ever found yourself slumped over your laptop, cursing the day you ever thought writing a book was a good idea? You're not alone.  Writing a book is one of the most challenging things you'll ever do - and there's a reason why most people who start one never finish. But why exactly is it so damn hard? In this episode, I dive into the emotional rollercoaster of book writing and why we find ourselves wanting to throw our laptops out the window on a regular basis. I explore: The emotional side of writing that we rarely talk about – and why focusing only on the practical stuff sets us up for a nasty surprise Why being a "beginner" at something feels so uncomfortable (and why I'm still a total beginner at mystery writing, despite having written eight non-fiction books) How our unrealistic expectations and high standards can turn the writing process into a special kind of torture Why the "shitty first draft" is not just allowed but necessary – and why comparing your first draft to published books is a recipe for despair How our modern inability to be bored or do challenging things for sustained periods makes writing feel even harder Why breaking down your book into small, manageable chunks rather than thinking about "50,000 words" can save your sanity The importance of finding your tribe so you don't have to shoulder all those writing emotions alone The truth is, writing a book will still feel tough at times – no magic wand makes the challenging bits disappear. But understanding why it feels so difficult can help you be kinder to yourself through the process. The peaks and troughs are par for the course, so let’s be ready to tackle them, eh? If you’re ready to embrace the messy, frustrating, occasionally incredible journey of writing your book, listen to discover why it's normal to find writing hard and how to push through anyway.  Because while writing a book is challenging, it's also one of the most rewarding things you'll ever do for yourself and your business. Further resources from me Sign up for the FREE Write Stuff newsletter here. Happy Writers Hub - The Happy Writers Hub - all info and link to join is 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/ If you enjoyed today’s episode, please leave a review on your favourite podcast platform!

Did you know we're 22 times more likely to remember stories than facts alone? No wonder my sister's dog, Goldie, has become the unexpected star of my book, Dare to Write! Our brains are wired for stories - it helps them make sense of the world around them - so let’s use them to our advantage as non-fiction authors! This week on the Creating Happy Writers podcast, I'm diving into the world of storytelling because let's face it, nobody wants to write a book that ends up being used as a doorstop. And without storytelling, that’s certainly possible! Listen to discover why you should: Begin with a compelling personal story – Show readers why they should trust you, whether you've lived their struggles or guided others through them. Turn case studies into narratives – Use client experiences as powerful before-and-after stories that show transformation in action. Balance stats with memorable anecdotes – Like my diesel/petrol mix-up, simple examples can illustrate complex points in seconds. Use sensory details – As Jen Sincero's legendary goat invasion story proves, specific details make your stories unforgettable. So whether you're writing a business book or a self-help guide, this episode will help you use storytelling to turn dry, dull theory into a reading experience your audience won't forget.  I hope you enjoy listening. Further resources from me Storynomics by Robert McKee and Thomas Gerace The Roar of Her Story by Hilary Salzman Sign up for the FREE Write Stuff newsletter here. Happy Writers Hub - The Happy Writers Hub - all info and link to join is 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/ If you enjoyed today’s episode, please leave a review on your favourite podcast platform!

Half of UK adults no longer read for pleasure. In today's world of 90-second TikToks and instant AI answers, can nonfiction books still grab readers? In this episode, I reveal the nine critical elements that separate those forgettable, yawn-inducing business books from those that fly off shelves and change lives.  Listen to find out:  How to create "switch-flicking" content rather than just stuff that "turns up the dial" (like Atomic Habits and The 5 Second Rule) Why your personal story creates the trust and connection readers crave The power of simple, practical frameworks readers can implement immediately How to use storytelling to make your concepts 22 times more memorable Why strong opinions and authentic voice trump neutral, academic approaches every time So whether you're drafting your first manuscript or polishing your tenth, these insights will elevate your work from, “Yeah, it was okay” to, “Holy heck, that book changed my life.”  I hope you enjoy listening. Further resources from me Switch and Dial LinkedIn article Sign up for the FREE Write Stuff newsletter here. Book Strategy Hour - all info and link to book is here Happy Writers Hub - The Happy Writers Hub - all info and link to join is 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/ If you enjoyed today’s episode, please leave a review on your favourite podcast platform!

Ever wondered how to truly understand what your customers want? Is market research something only big companies with massive budgets can afford to do well? I don’t know about you but it always feels like a minefield to me! Luckily for us, this month’s brilliant Behind the Book episode with Katie Tucker is here to answer all our questions - and more!  Katie is the award-winning author of "Do Penguins Eat Peaches? And Other Unexpected Ways to Discover What Your Customers Want." As well as a successful author, she is a customer research expert, helping businesses and freelancers understand their customers better so they can create and build products and services that sell.  Her background is in journalism, product and project management and leadership. She is currently working on her second non-fiction book about neurodiversity. Listen to the episode to find out more about: How Katie's background in journalism and product management shaped her approach to market research Practical ways small businesses can conduct effective market research without big budgets Why asking about a customer’s past behavior is more revealing than asking about future intentions The story behind her intriguing book title that stands out in the business book world Katie's journey from business book challenge finalist to published author I love how Katie shares practical insights on customer research that any business owner or freelancer can implement. She offers such a fresh perspective on understanding what customers truly want, along with behind-the-scenes glimpses into her writing process and publishing journey.  Whether you're interested in business strategy or aspiring to write your own book, this episode delivers some great actionable advice - and inspiration by the bucket load! Connect with Katie and her book: Book Website Instagram Newsletter 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: Apple Spotify Amazon

Ever wondered what the real, unfiltered journey of writing a book looks like—even for an experienced author? In this episode, I pull back the curtain on my recent six-month first draft process, revealing the ups, downs, and unexpected lessons learned while rediscovering my love for writing. Discover why I made the difficult decision to pivot from my cozy crime novel to non-fiction after nine months of creative burnout Find out how this impatient Annie learned to embrace a slower, six-month writing process  Get a behind-the-scenes look at my exact editing process—from first draft to editor-ready manuscript Learn my strategy for handling research without falling down endless rabbit holes during a first draft Hear the truth about why sometimes even experienced authors need to break their own rules (and when you absolutely shouldn't) Whether you're struggling with your first draft or preparing to send your manuscript to an editor, this episode offers reassurance that the creative journey is rarely linear.  Your first draft is just a starting point—trust the process, be kind to yourself, and keep going! I hope you enjoy listening. Further resources from me Episode with Jessica Brown (editor) is here Sign up for the FREE Write Stuff newsletter here. Book Strategy Hour - all info and link to book is here Happy Writers Hub - The Happy Writers Hub - all info and link to join is 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/ If you enjoyed today’s episode, please leave a review on your favourite podcast platform!