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Kern Carter on the Craft and Commitment of Being an Author

Hungry Authors is back! In this episode, Ariel & Liz interview Kern Carter, an author and ghostwriter, about his journey in writing. They discuss the value of platforms like Substack for writers and delve into Kern’s dedication to becoming a full-time author. Kern shares his strategic approach to writing, which includes developing his skills and taking calculated risks, such as self-publishing his first two books. He highlights the importance of receiving and acting on feedback, sharing a pivotal moment when a literary agent’s tough critique pushed him to enroll in an intensive novel-writing program. They also discuss the lucrative yet underappreciated world of ghostwriting and the emotional and practical benefits it offers writers. Kern shares insights from authors who have influenced him, including Toni Morrison and Marlon James, and emphasizes the ongoing need for learning and improvement in the craft. The conversation is both an inspiring and pragmatic guide for aspiring writers looking to turn their passion into a career.

00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome

00:40 Discovering Substack and Writing Life Insights

03:12 Kern Carter’s Journey to Becoming an Author

03:27 Self-Publishing Strategies and Success

08:12 The Role of Ghostwriting in a Writing Career

20:33 Improving Craft Through Feedback and Education

26:16 The Myth of the Exception: Why Good Writing Matters

26:52 The Gift of Honest Feedback

29:06 The Reality of Skill Development in Writing

33:32 Confidence and the Hungry Author’s Mentality

38:48 Inspiration from Literary Giants

44:03 The Power of Execution in Writing

49:54 Final Thoughts and Farewell

Kern Carter is a novelist who is celebrated for his captivating storytelling. With books such as And Then There Was Us and Boys and Girls Screaming, his stories explore themes of family, friendship, and the drama that can fracture those relationships. Kern has built a devoted readership not just for his novels, but for his writing on the intersection between literature and popular culture, both historically and through a contemporary lens. Kern also teaches professional writing at the college level, hosts workshops on craft and storytelling, and is in-demand as a public speaker for his expertise on creative culture. He is based in Toronto.

Learn more about Kern at https://www.kerncarter.com/.