Ask The Author with Jodi Gibson

I'm back with a very special episode featuring debut romcom author Holly Brunnbauer.  Holly's debut novel What Did I Miss? was released in July by Harper Collins. It's a fun, vibrant, and engaging romcom filled with heart and humour. Holly joins me in this very special episode about her path to publication, her writing process, and shares her experience as a debut romcom author in 2025. Holly Brunnbauer https://www.hollybrunnbauer.com.au/  What Did I Miss? Buy Here:  https://www.hollybrunnbauer.com.au/whatdidimiss  Follow Holly on Insta: https://www.instagram.com/hollybrunnbauer   Keep up with what's happening in the world of writing & publishing with me on Substack https://bookishwithjodigibson.substack.com/    You can also support the podcast by buying me a coffee on https://ko-fi.com/jodigibson  Your support helps with the hosting and production costs of the show, so thank you. And, you'll get a shout out on the next episode too! Happy listening (and writing)! Jodi

It's our 100th episode and I'm so excited to share with you all the tips you ever needed. A mish-mash of tips from past pocast guest and various writing peeps all in one jam packed episode.  A huge thank you to everyone who has ever listened along the way. I'm so grateful that you've emraced and enjoyed the podcast.  Don't forget to like and subscribe to the podcast so you don't miss an episode. And if you have a questions you'd like answered or a topic you'd like covered on the podcast, please email through my contact form on my website https://www.jfgibson.com.au/,  or reach out on my Substack https://bookishwithjodigibson.substack.com/ where you'll also find lots more on writing, publishing, and all things bookish! You can also support the podcast by buying me a coffee on https://ko-fi.com/jodigibson   Your support helps with the hosting and production costs of the show, so thank you.  Happy listening (and writing)! Jodi

In this week's episode I'm chatting about how to find your author voice. 'Author voice' is something that can be hard to explain to those new to writing and it can often be confusing as if you need to find it before you start which of course you don't. Your author voice develops over time. Listen up to find out wha the author voice means, and what things can you do to help you find and develop your own.   Don't forget to like and subscribe to the podcast so you don't miss an episode. And if you have a questions you'd like answered or a topic you'd like covered on the podcast, please email through my contact form on my website https://www.jfgibson.com.au/, or reach to me on Substack, just search for Jodi Gibson. You can also support the podcast by buying me a coffee on https://ko-fi.com/jodigibson   Your support helps with the hosting and production costs of the show, so thank you. And, you'll get a shout out on the next episode too! Happy listening (and writing)! Jodi

This week I have some a little different for you. I like to think of it as a pep talk. Ten minutes of inspiration to get you energised and motivated if you're feeling a little low or a little stuck.  I'm going to share with you an essay I wrote recently on Substack about creativity and the importance of owning your creativity, and why,  now more than ever it's important to do so.  I hope you enjoy this bite-sized creative pep talk! Don't forget to like and subscribe to the podcast so you don't miss an episode. And if you have a questions you'd like answered or a topic you'd like covered on the podcast, please email through my contact form on my website https://www.jfgibson.com.au/, or reach out on my Substack https://bookishwithjodigibson.substack.com/  where you'll also find lots more on writing, publishing, and all things bookish or on my substack all about creativity https://nestcreativity.substack.com/  You can also support the podcast by buying me a coffee on https://ko-fi.com/jodigibson   Your support helps with the hosting and production costs of the show and I really appreciate your support. Until next week, Jodi

Romantasy is the 'it girl' right now. Everyone is talking about it. It's all over BookTok and readers can't seem to get enough of it. But does that mean YOU should write it too? I'm approaching this as a bit of a broarder questions - should I write to trend?  Don't forget to like and subscribe to the podcast so you don't miss an episode. The 100th episode is coming up very soon, so don't miss it! And if you have a questions you'd like answered or a topic you'd like covered on the podcast, please email through my contact form on my website https://www.jfgibson.com.au/  or reach out on my Substack https://bookishwithjodigibson.substack.com/  where you'll also find lots more on writing, publishing, and all things bookish! You can also support the podcast by buying me a coffee on https://ko-fi.com/jodigibson   Your support helps with the hosting and production costs of the show, so thank you.  Happy listening (and writing)!   Jodi

This week we're looking at the difference between a manuscript assessment and a structural or developmental edit. If you're at the stage where you're ready for someone else's eyes on your manuscript then this is a must-listen episode. Don't forget to like and subscribe to the podcast so you don't miss an episode. And if you have a questions you'd like answered or a topic you'd like covered on the podcast, please email through my contact form on my website https://www.jfgibson.com.au/  or reach out on my Substack https://bookishwithjodigibson.substack.com/  where you'll also find lots more on writing, publishing, and all things bookish! You can also support the podcast by buying me a coffee on https://ko-fi.com/jodigibson   Your support helps with the hosting and production costs of the show, so it's greatly appreciated! Happy listening (and writing)!   Jodi

If you're a new author seeking a traditional publishing deal it's important to learn about the industry you're wanting to be a part of. Today I'm sharing three tips on how to manage your expectations as a new author specifically if you're trad publishing.    Don't forget to like and subscribe to the podcast so you don't miss an episode. And if you have a questions you'd like answered or a topic you'd like covered on the podcast, please email through my contact form on my website https://www.jfgibson.com.au/, or reach out on my Substack https://bookishwithjodigibson.substack.com/ where you'll also find lots more on writing, publishing, and all things bookish! You can also support the podcast by buying me a coffee on https://ko-fi.com/jodigibson  Your support helps with the hosting and production costs of the show, so thank you.  Happy listening (and writing)! Jodi

This week Jodi shares three things she'd do differently if she were starting out as an author right now compared to when she first published her debut novel in 2019. It's only six years, but so much has changed in the publishing landscape over that time plus experience builds wisdom.  Don't forget to like and subscribe to the podcast so you don't miss an episode. And if you have a questions you'd like answered or a topic you'd like covered on the podcast, please email through my contact form on my website https://www.jfgibson.com.au/  or reach out on my Substack https://bookishwithjodigibson.substack.com/  where you'll also find lots more on writing, publishing, and all things bookish! You can also support the podcast by buying me a coffee on https://ko-fi.com/jodigibson  Your support helps with the hosting and production costs of the show, so thank you. And, you'll get a shout out on the next episode too! Happy listening (and writing)! Jodi

We've all seen those mesmerizing dominoes falling and creating a pretty pattern as they fall. But what has that got to do with storytelling? It's all about cause and effect. And that's what I'm chatting about this week.  Don't forget to like and subscribe to the podcast so you don't miss an episode. And if you have a questions you'd like answered or a topic you'd like covered on the podcast, please email through my contact form on my website https://www.jfgibson.com.au/, or reach out on my Substack https://bookishwithjodigibson.substack.com/ where you'll also find lots more on writing, publishing, and all things bookish! You can also support the podcast by buying me a coffee on https://ko-fi.com/jodigibson  Your support helps with the hosting and production costs of the show, so thank you. And, you'll get a shout out on the next episode too! Happy listening (and writing)! Jodi    

This week is a bit more of a personal one in that I'm sharing the reasons behind my saying 'see ya later!' to Instagram.  Don't forget to like and subscribe to the podcast so you don't miss an episode. And if you have a question you'd like answered, please email through my contact form on my website https://www.jfgibson.com.au/, or reach out on my Substack https://bookishwithjodigibson.substack.com/ for lots more on writing, publishing, books and more. You can also support the podcast by buying me a coffee on https://ko-fi.com/jodigibson  Your support helps with the hosting and production costs of the show, so thank you. And, you'll get a shout out on the next episode too! Happy listening (and writing)! Jodi

Today's episode is a little different in that I'm tackling four questions from four different listeners.  What is an author platform? Is it just your social media following? Does your social media following count when you're pitching a novel? What is the difference between a romantic fiction book and romance book? Is it worthwhile pursuing writing and publication? I hope you enjoy the episode and remember if you have a question don't hesitate to reach out via my website www.jfgibson.com.au or on Substack www.writesquadcommunity.substack.com  Don't forget to like and subscribe to the podcast so you don't miss an episode. You can also support the podcast by buying me a coffee on www.ko-fi.com/jodigibson  Your support helps with the hosting and production costs of the show, so thank you. And, you'll get a shout out on the next episode too if you so wish! Happy listening (and writing)! Jodi

Does social media sell books? It's complicated. In this episode I'm sharing my thoughts and experiences on this very topic.  Don't forget to like and subscribe to the podcast so you don't miss an episode. And if you have a burning questions you'd like answered, please email through my contact form on my website https://www.jfgibson.com.au/, or reach out on Instagram where you'll find me @jfgibsonwriter subscribe to my Substack https://writesquadcommunity.substack.com/ for lots more on writing, publishing, books and more. You can also support the podcast by buying me a coffee on https://ko-fi.com/jodigibson  Your support helps with the hosting and production costs of the show, so thank you. And, you'll get a shout out on the next episode too! Happy listening (and writing)! Jodi  

This week I'm wrapping up the genre essentials series with some essential information and takeaways on writing commercial genre fiction. If you haven't listened to the genre specific episodes, head back and take a listen, then pop back here for the wrap up.    Don't forget to like and subscribe to the podcast so you don't miss an episode. And if you have a burning questions you'd like answered, please email through my contact form on my website https://www.jfgibson.com.au/, or reach out on Instagram where you'll find me @jfgibsonwriter subscribe to my Substack https://writesquadcommunity.substack.com/ for lots more on writing, publishing, books and more. You can also support the podcast by buying me a coffee on https://ko-fi.com/jodigibson  Your support helps with the hosting and production costs of the show, so thank you. And, you'll get a shout out on the next episode too! Happy listening (and writing)! Jodi

Yet another episode in the Genre Essentials series, and the last Genre Specific episode, this time we're chatting about Sci-Fi and Fantasy. And before you yell at me, yes I know they are two different genres! But bear with me, while I explain why I have lumped them together for the purposes of this episode.  Don't forget to like and subscribe to the podcast so you don't miss an episode. And if you have a burning questions you'd like answered, please email through my contact form on my website https://www.jfgibson.com.au/, or reach out on Instagram where you'll find me @jfgibsonwriter subscribe to my Substack https://writesquadcommunity.substack.com/ for lots more on writing, publishing, books and more. You can also support the podcast by buying me a coffee on https://ko-fi.com/jodigibson  Your support helps with the hosting and production costs of the show, so thank you. And, you'll get a shout out on the next episode too! Happy listening (and writing)! Jodi

Are you writing or wanting to write a thriller novel? A story that creates dread, foreboding and danger for your main character? A story that will keep your reader up late at night unable to stop reading and unable to turn off the light when they do? Then you need to listen to this episode where I share my do and don't guidelines for writing a great thriller novel. Thriller readers want a certain something out of a thriller novel, so you better make sure you deliver.    Don't forget to like and subscribe to the podcast so you don't miss an episode. And if you have a burning questions you'd like answered, please email through my contact form on my website https://www.jfgibson.com.au/, or reach out on Instagram where you'll find me @jfgibsonwriter subscribe to my Substack https://writesquadcommunity.substack.com/ for lots more on writing, publishing, books and more. You can also support the podcast by buying me a coffee on https://ko-fi.com/jodigibson  Your support helps with the hosting and production costs of the show, so thank you. And, you'll get a shout out on the next episode too! Happy listening (and writing)! Jodi

Taking a mini break from our genre essentials series this week to chat about characters.  How do you get to know your characters? I'm sharing 5 tips on some fun ways to help your characters reveal themselves to you before you start writing, or even during the writing process.  I hope you enjoy this one. And don't forget if you have a question you'd like answered just reach out.    Don't forget to like and subscribe to the podcast so you don't miss an episode. And if you have a burning questions you'd like answered, please email through my contact form on my website https://www.jfgibson.com.au/, or reach out on Instagram where you'll find me @jfgibsonwriter subscribe to my Substack https://writesquadcommunity.substack.com/ for lots more on writing, publishing, books and more. You can also support the podcast by buying me a coffee on https://ko-fi.com/jodigibson  Your support helps with the hosting and production costs of the show, so thank you. And, you'll get a shout out on the next episode too! Happy listening (and writing)! Jodi    

Continuing on with our Genre Essentials Series this week we're tackling Women's Fiction and the question - is it a genre? And also, what's with the name "women's" fiction. That and whole bunch more of do's and don'ts for writing a compelling women's fiction novel. I had a lot of fun with this one, and I hope you enjoy!   Don't forget to like and subscribe to the podcast so you don't miss an episode. And if you have a burning questions you'd like answered, please email through my contact form on my website https://www.jfgibson.com.au/, or reach out on Instagram where you'll find me @jfgibsonwriter subscribe to my Substack https://writesquadcommunity.substack.com/ for lots more on writing, publishing, books and more. You can also support the podcast by buying me a coffee on https://ko-fi.com/jodigibson  Your support helps with the hosting and production costs of the show, so thank you. And, you'll get a shout out on the next episode too! Happy listening (and writing)! Jodi

This week we're chatting about writing horror fiction. A hugely popular genre with readers who expect a lot from their stories. This is another episode in the genre essentials series where we explores the do's and don'ts as guidelines to writing specific genres.   Don't forget to like and subscribe to the podcast so you don't miss an episode. And if you have a burning questions you'd like answered, please email through my contact form on my website https://www.jfgibson.com.au/, or reach out on Instagram where you'll find me @jfgibsonwriter subscribe to my Substack https://writesquadcommunity.substack.com/ for lots more on writing, publishing, books and more. You can also support the podcast by buying me a coffee on https://ko-fi.com/jodigibson  Your support helps with the hosting and production costs of the show, so thank you. And, you'll get a shout out on the next episode too!   Happy listening (and writing)! Jodi

Part 2 of our Genre Essentials series and we're tackling Crime Fiction. Jodi takes you through a number of guidelines when writing in the crime genre to ensure you deliver a story that will meet reader expectations and beyond.  - - - Don't forget to like and subscribe to the podcast so you don't miss an episode. And if you have a burning questions you'd like answered, please email through my contact form on my website https://www.jfgibson.com.au/, or reach out on Instagram where you'll find me @jfgibsonwriter subscribe to my Substack https://writesquadcommunity.substack.com/ for lots more on writing, publishing, books and more. You can also support the podcast by buying me a coffee on https://ko-fi.com/jodigibson  Your support helps with the hosting and production costs of the show, so thank you. And, you'll get a shout out on the next episode too! Happy listening (and writing)! Jodi    

This week sees the start of a new short series on the pod all about writing specific genres. Quick do's and don'ts so that you meet expectations and leave readers feeling satisfied. First up, the romance genre.    Don't forget to like and subscribe to the podcast so you don't miss an episode. And if you have a burning questions you'd like answered, please email through my contact form on my website https://www.jfgibson.com.au/, or reach out on Instagram where you'll find me @jfgibsonwriter or subscribe to my Substack https://writesquadcommunity.substack.com/  You can also support the podcast by buying me a coffee on https://ko-fi.com/jodigibson  Your support helps with the hosting and production costs of the show, so thank you. And, you'll get a shout out on the next episode too! Happy listening (and writing)! Jodi