Episode 5 is here!

In today’s episode, I chat to the Smarter Solopreneur herself, Maya Sayvanova! This was a really fun conversation about what it’s like to build your own solo business, what happens when you take down your paywall on Substack (!), and how mistakes are just part of the journey for every solopreneur.

Comment below if you have any questions for Maya after listening!

You can watch the full video in our Member Resource Hub.

📣 Want to support this publication + get more eyes on your brand? Become a How to Write for a Living sponsor. Get more info here.

Episode 4 is here!

In today’s episode, I chat to Substackian extraordinaire Claire Venus about her upcoming book co-authored with Russell Nohelty (you should definitely order a copy), why Substack is such a great place for creators right now, what it’s like to run a Kickstarter campaign, and much more!

Comment below if you have any questions for Claire after listening!

You can watch the full video in our Member Resource Hub.

📣 Want to support this publication + get more eyes on your brand? Become a How to Write for a Living sponsor. Get more info here.

Episode 3 is here!

In this edition of the podcast, I chat to New York Times best-selling author Evelyn Skye about her approach to storytelling, why she decided to join Substack, and what it’s like when Netflix comes knocking at your door. This was a really fun conversation, and you’ll find it super enlightening if you’re writing fiction.

You can watch the full video in our Member Resource Hub.

📣 Want to support this publication + get more eyes on your brand? Become a How to Write for a Living sponsor. Get more info here.

In this first EVER guest episode, I speak to Veronica Llorca-Smith of The Lemon Tree Mindset about solopreneurial life, what it’s like to be an introverted public speaker, how to get a book deal with a Big 5 publisher, and why community is at the heart of every successful Substack publication.

You can watch the full video in our Member Resource Hub.

📣 Want to support this publication + get more eyes on your brand? Become a How to Write for a Living sponsor. Get more info here.

Welcome to the How to Write for a Living podcast!

In this brief opening episode, I introduce the podcast, explain how it’ll work going forward, and provide some more details on HTWFAL membership.

This will be the only free edition to feature the full video version of the podcast, as seen below. Paid subscribers will get access to these in every future episode.

Anyway, here’s me…

Episode 11 is here!

In today’s episode, I chat to Simon K Jones about publishing serial fiction on Substack and why you should consider giving it a go as an author. This is the perfect episode for anyone who’s interested to trying a different approach to publishing.

Comment below if you have any questions for Simon after listening.

And as always, paid members can watch every full video episode in our Member Resource Hub.

Episode 10 is here!

In today’s episode, I chat to Renee Puvvada about book funnels, landing pages, reviews, and how to maximise your chances of avoiding failure as an author.

And, simply because this is a mini milestone moment for the show (double-figures!), you can watch the whole episode for FREE! 🥳

Comment below if you have any questions after listening.

To book your free 15-minute book strategy call with Renee, go here. ☎️

And as always, paid members can watch every full video episode in our Member Resource Hub.Resource Hub.

Episode 9 is here!

In today’s episode, I chat to Michael Thompson about the power of gentle book promotion and effective storytelling in online writing.

This is a great one for anyone who doesn’t necessarily enjoy plugging themselves and isn’t chasing perfection in their process. Michael speaks refreshingly from a wealth of experience here.

Comment below if you have any questions for him after listening.

Paid members can watch the full video in our Member Resource Hub.

Episode 8 is here!

In today’s episode, I chat to Sinem Günel about what’s working on Medium right now and how writers can go the extra mile, content-wise.

We also discuss what scroll-stopping writing looks like, why Substack is such a great online community, and how to overcome the mindset holding writers back from making money (and, as a random bonus, what Sinem’s favourite Taylor Swift album is!).

Comment below if you have any questions for Sinem after listening.

Paid members can watch the full video in our Member Resource Hub.

Episode 7 is here!

In today’s episode, I chat to Philip Hofmacher about all things entreprenurship - this is a great one for anyone hoping to build a writing-based business.

We also discuss his meaningful approach to Substack, how he and Sinem Günel developed their business Write • Build • Scale, and why he believes online communities are the future.

Comment below if you have any questions for Philip after listening.

Paid members can watch the full video in our Member Resource Hub.

Episode 5 is here!

In today’s episode, I chat to the Smarter Solopreneur herself, Maya Sayvanova! This was a really fun conversation about what it’s like to build your own solo business, what happens when you take down your paywall on Substack (!), and how mistakes are just part of the journey for every solopreneur.

Comment below if you have any questions for Maya after listening!

You can watch the full video in our Member Resource Hub.

📣 Want to support this publication + get more eyes on your brand? Become a How to Write for a Living sponsor. Get more info here.

Episode 13 is here!

In today’s episode, I chat to John Bejakovic about how he effectively uses a daily email approach to nurture trust and loyalty among his online audience.

I’ve been subscribed to John’s list for a while and I absolutely love how he weaves story into his email copy. I was so glad when he agreed to be a guest on the pod and I know you’ll enjoy our conversation.

And as always, paid members can watch every full video episode in our Member Resource Hub.

Episode 12 is here!

In today’s episode, I chat to Lucy Werner about how to hype yourself as a writer without feeling the dreaded “ick” of self-promotion (something most writers seem to struggle with!). We also discuss Substack, social media and book-writing, among many other things!

Comment below if you have any questions for Lucy after listening.

And as always, paid members can watch every full video episode in our Member Resource Hub.

The season one finale is here!

In today’s episode, I chat to you about my main takeaways from my first full calendar year on Substack. It’s been a fascinating 12 months featuring plenty of ups and downs - hopefully you’ll find the 7 points I share in this episode useful.

I also answer some questions from the How to Write for a Living community (keep ‘em coming!).

Feel free to leave a question of your own in the comments after listening.

And as always, paid members can watch every full video episode in our Member Resource Hub.

Episode 16 is here!

In today’s episode, I chat to Derek Hughes, a self-proclaimed “old bloke with no writing experience” who’s now making five figures a year writing online.

Derek and I discuss writing platforms like Substack and Medium, and Derek shares his process for crafting effective, engaging articles that generate revenue. If you’re keen to develop a sustainable writing-based business of your own, this is the perfect episode for you.

Make sure to drop a question for Derek in the comments after listening.

And as always, paid members can watch every full video episode in our Member Resource Hub.

Episode 15 is here!

In today’s episode, I chat to Lizzie Mulherin about all things travel writing (because who wouldn’t want to do that for a living?!). ✈️

BUT we discuss much more than that - Lizzie shares some genuinely fascinating insights and perspectives about the actual business of writing, like how to price yourself as a freelancer, the right ways to use AI, and how to work minimal hours for maximum rewards. This is a good one for sure.

Make sure to drop a question for Lizzie in the comments after listening.

And as always, paid members can watch every full video episode in our Member Resource Hub.

Episode 14 is here!

In today’s episode, I chat to Chris Stanley about… well, you guessed it… mini books!

What are mini books, I hear you say? Why should I use them? How can I build a writing-based business around them? All that and more in this week’s episode.

Make sure to drop a question for Chris in the comments after listening.

And as always, paid members can watch every full video episode in our Member Resource Hub.

Welcome to Season 2!

In the very first episode of the second season, I chat to Jamie Northrup about what it means to have a “minimalist” approach to writing, content creation and business growth.

Jamie’s built an audience of 7,000+ minimalist hustlers with a simple daily email strategy. He goes for quality over quantity in his mission to help writers and online business owners earn more by working on their own terms. If this sounds good to you (and why the heck wouldn’t it?), you’ll enjoy this episode for sure.

Make sure to drop a question for Jamie in the comments after listening.

And as always, paid members can watch every full video episode in our Member Resource Hub.

Episode 2 of Season 2 is here!

Today, I chat to Claudia Faith about how she grew a sustainable writing-based business on Substack, where she helps other writers get paid for their words.

In this episode, we discuss:

- How Claudia went from working with investor startups to full-time writer

- How she grew a 3,000+ audience on Substack in just 6 months

- Our thoughts on the use of AI in writing

- How our writing processes differ

- How to build trust with readers through authenticity

- Key approaches writers can take to generate income from their words

- Why Substack is such a brilliant platform for writers at any stage in their journey

Make sure to drop a question for Claudia in the comments after listening.

And as always, paid members can watch every full video episode in our Member Resource Hub.

Season 2, episode 15 is here!

In this episode, I chat to Ciler from Newsletter Circle about the realities of building a sustainable newsletter business from scratch.

Here’s a taste of what we covered:

- The surprising career pivot from corporate marketing to running a thriving newsletter business.

- How Newsletter Circle carved out a unique niche in the crowded newsletter space.

- Behind-the-scenes of analysing 75,000 Substack newsletters, and the biggest shock from the data.

- The #1 underrated secret to growing a newsletter audience (hint: it’s not fancy tools).

- Why half of newsletters die off, and how to make sure yours isn’t one of them.

- How to pick a newsletter niche people actually pay for, and why going broad can backfire.

- The real numbers: what most paid newsletters charge and what pricing traps to avoid.

- How to turn loyal readers into superfans (and annual subscribers!) through personal outreach.

- Should you build a paid community space on Substack or move to Slack, Circle, or somewhere else?

- A candid golden rule for anyone dreaming of living off their writing: treat it like a startup, not a hobby.

Make sure to subscribe to Newsletter Circle before you go!

Season 2, episode 14 is here!

In this episode, I chat to Alex Mathers about how writers can use clear positioning, consistent messaging, and audience trust to generate real, sustainable income online.

You’ll learn:

- Why most online writers struggle with visibility despite being highly skilled.

- The concept of the “Recognition Gap” and how it affects client acquisition.

- The importance of having a clear offer, point of view, and market presence.

- How to position your writing as a marketing tool, not just content.

- Common traps like writing for peers instead of potential clients.

- Why consistency doesn’t equal effectiveness in content strategy.

- How to identify whether your content is leading to inbound interest.

- The difference between content pillars and problem-led marketing.

- Simple, real-world signals that show your market position is weak.

- A soft but effective call to action approach that drives responses.

Make sure to subscribe to Alex’s publications before you go (check out his profile).

Episode 3 is here!

Today, I chat to Ana Calin about the best ways to grow an online audience, particularly here on Substack (where she’s absolutely flying!).

In this episode, we discuss:

- How Ana grew a 40k Substack audience in a matter of months

- How her background in marketing helped prepare her for life on Substack

- What it means to “just start” your creator journey

- Which kinds of Substack Notes are most effective

- How to make paid content irresistible

- How to be serious about having fun

- And much more!

Make sure to drop a question for Ana in the comments after listening.

And as always, paid members can watch every full video episode in our Member Resource Hub.

Season 2, episode 13 is here!

In this episode, I chat to Yana G.Y. about how and why to treat Substack like a business and generate real, sustainable income on the platform.

You’ll learn:

- Why treating your Substack like a real business changes everything

- How Yana hit a 6% conversion rate (and keeps it steady)

- The overlooked channel on Substack that converts better than email

- What a smart 20-day automation can do for your paid signups

- Why selling transformation beats listing features every time

- The subtle power of monthly challenges to drive retention and growth

- How to actually use AI without sounding like everyone else

- A simple system for turning audience insights into paid content ideas

- Why branding isn't optional if you want to be memorable

- The retention mindset shift that most creators overlook

- The one thing most writers are scared to do, and why it’s the key to income

Make sure to subscribe to Yana’s publication Unplugged by Yana G.Y. before you go.

Season 2, episode 12 is here!

In this episode, I chat to… myself… about why Substack is the best place to be right now as a writer, and what I’d do if I was just starting out on the platform.

You’ll learn:

- Why Substack is the #1 platform for writers starting today

- How I grew from ~50 to 23,000+ subscribers using simple, consistent strategies

- The three biggest advantages of using Substack over other platforms

- How to leverage Substack’s discovery tools to grow without a large following

- Why owning your email list is more powerful than having social media followers

- How Substack integrates seamlessly with YouTube for creators

- Tips for turning YouTube videos into Substack content

- Three key steps to follow in your first month on Substack

- How to engage effectively on Substack to build a loyal audience

This is a quick and easy episode for anyone who’s just getting started on Substack!

Season 2, episode 11 is here!

In this episode, I chat to Derek Hughes about how he’s built a thriving online writing business on Substack and Medium.

You’ll learn:

- How Derek grew his audience and income with Notes, coaching cohorts, and digital products

- Why autonomy and personal freedom matter more than just chasing big income

- The most crucial advice for new writers: focus on starting and staying consistent

- How to build a rock-solid writing habit and overcome imposter syndrome

- Why success in digital products comes from smart marketing, not just creation

- How simple, practical resources (like templates) can outperform complex offers

- How to stand out as an authentic, differentiated creator in the age of AI

- What a balanced, sustainable writing life looks like, and why it’s worth aiming for

If you’ve been looking for practical strategies, hard-earned lessons, and honest encouragement to build your own writing path, this episode delivers.

Season 2, episode 8 is here!

In this episode, I chat with Michael Lim, who’s currently living the sweet creator life in Bali and can’t believe he’s almost 30.

Here’s some of what we touched on in this one:

- The DOT framework for solopreneurs

- How to fix your offer using the Three Ps

- Why money and titles don’t equate to happiness

- Which other writers have influenced Michael’s approach

If you want to hone your offer and generate more income as a writing-based solopreneur, this one’s for you.

And don’t forget to check out Michael’s publication, Solopreneur Launch, before you go!

Paid members can watch every full video episode in our Member Resource Hub.

Season 2, episode 7 is here!

In this episode, I chat with Jari Roomer, who expertly walks us through the process of creating and lauching digital products actually wanted by our audience members (which is kind of a big deal!).

Here’s some of what we covered:

- When to let go as an entrepeneur

- How to validate ideas with your audience

- The differences between full and mini courses

- The best ways to grow an email audience on Substack

If you’re interested in launching your own digital products, this one’s for you.

And don’t forget to check out Jari’s co-hosted publication, Write • Build • Scale!

Paid members can watch every full video episode in our Member Resource Hub.

Season 2, episode 6 is here!

In this episode, I chat with Emma Nelson, who shares some fascinating insights on what it’s like to be a professional ghostwriter (while simultaneously writing a novel!).

Here’s some of what we covered:

What a ghostwriter actually is

How to approach potential clients

What the ghostwriting process looks like

How ghostwriting and Substack combine to become a thriving business

If you’re interested in becoming a ghostwriter yourself, this one’s for you.

You can also check out Emma’s publication here.

Paid members can watch every full video episode in our Member Resource Hub.

Episode 5 is here!

In this episode, I chat with Scott Perry, who’s on a mission to help seasoned solopreneurs build their ideal lifestyle.

We covered a lot here, including:

- What it’s like to change course after a decades-long career

- Adapting your lifestyle to meet fresh needs

- How to position yourself effectively as a solopreneur

- How to ensure you reserve the right to change lanes

If you’re a writer interested in building a life-giving solo business, this one’s for you.

Paid members can watch every full video episode in our Member Resource Hub.

Episode 4 is here!

In this episode, I share what I’m doing more and less of in 2025, and why. I also answer a handful of questions from subscribers (listen out for yours!).

If you have any questions after listening, just drop them in the comments.

Paid members can watch every full video episode in our Member Resource Hub.

Season 2, episode 20 is here!

In this conversation, Chenell Basilio shares how she went from a solo deep-dive experiment to building a newsletter followed by tens of thousands and her own successful community. We get into what drives real growth, how to stay visible without burning out, and why keeping things human is still the most underrated advantage online.

What we covered:

- How Growth in Reverse started with a 60-hour research obsession and four subscribers

- The simple moment that got Jay Clouse to become one of Chenell’s first readers and how that early support changed everything

- Why human connection and 1:1 outreach still outperform any automation or tactic

- How Chenell approaches branding without overthinking it and the little design details that actually matter

- What makes a sponsorship worth taking and how to grow trust without ever calling yourself an expert

- The tool Chenell’s most excited about right now and why it exists

- Why creators should worry less about followers and more about retention, relationships, and staying in the game long enough to get great

👉 Make sure to subscribe to Growth in Reverse before you go.

Season 2, episode 19 is here!

In this conversation, Jay Clouse opens up about the business behind his creative work, the systems that keep his community running, and his growing obsession with one powerful idea: trust.

Beginning with his early product background to running a 450-member creator community, Jay shares practical advice and personal insights on building a sustainable creator career from the inside out.

What we covered:

- Why Jay started over on Substack and what it taught him about empathy, experimentation, and trust

- The four key attributes of trust and how they quietly shape every decision your audience makes

- How Jay built a high-revenue creator business by focusing on retention, not constant growth

- What creators miss when launching communities, and how to fix it with purpose and onboarding

- Why going first is one of the most underrated habits for connection, collaboration, and long-term growth

- How to brand yourself in an AI-saturated world and become first to mind for a specific idea

- The word Jay wants to own in the next phase of his career, and what that says about the future of creator businesses

👉 Make sure to subscribe to Jay’s publication before you go.

Season 2, episode 18 is here!

In this episode, Erica Schneider shares what it really takes to go from full-time agency work to running your own solopreneur business as a writer.

We chat about personal pivots, marketing strategies and emotional clarity in writing - this one’s a real deep dive into the mindset and mechanics of modern creative work.

What we covered:

- Why Erica left a stable agency job and what she learned from cycling through multiple business models before finding the right fit

- The surprising pressure behind selling cohorts and one-on-one offers, and how to know if they’re right for you

- How Substack Notes helped Erica gain traction and drive hundreds of subscribers from a single viral post

- What it actually takes to thrive as a solopreneur, and why charisma, bias for action, and self-awareness matter more than a polished plan

- A breakdown of how Erica writes emotionally resonant emails, builds confident offers, and uses AI as a creative partner, not a replacement

- Her “MP3” framework for building a personal brand that connects

- How to close the recognition gap and future-proof your writing business in the age of AI

Season 2, episode 17 is here!

In this episode, Rodney Daut breaks down what creators often get wrong about building and selling courses, and how to rethink content from the ground up. He shares practical insights, surprising analogies, and sharp strategies for creators who want their work to actually teach (and sell).

What we covered:

- Why traditional social media failed Rodney, and why Substack Notes became an unexpected growth engine for him

- What most creators misunderstand about course design, and how to build training that actually sticks

- How to teach complex ideas using “disconnected stories” that hook readers with curiosity before delivering insight

- A behind-the-scenes look at building courses for clients in health and education, including a surprising case study that involved milk and Mongolian horsemen (?!)

- How Rodney uses AI to improve course content, not replace it, and where it still falls short

- What makes a micro course feel valuable, not small, and how a “potato chip” analogy can change how you think about content

- A dead-simple trick for finding the real problem your course should solve, and how to name it

- Why specificity in your audience and offer isn't about who you are - it's about the problems only you can solve

👉 Make sure to subscribe to Rodney’s publication before you go, and grab your free ebook copy of Profitable Playbooks right here.

Season 2, episode 16 is here!

In this episode, I chat to Dina Marais, a coach and publisher who helps aspiring authors turn their stories into bestsellers. Our conversation is packed with insights for any writer dreaming of seeing their name on a book cover and building a thriving business behind it.

What we covered:

- How Dina pivoted from IT to coaching and publishing, helping over 100 authors reach bestseller status.

- Why multi-author books are a powerful first step for new writers — and how they work behind the scenes.

- The biggest difference between publishing a solo book and a collaborative anthology.

- How writing just one chapter can kickstart your brand and audience building.

- Dina’s practical approach to coaching writers — from story feedback to launch strategy.

- How to choose book categories and time your launch to hit number one on Amazon.

- Why podcast guesting and evergreen content matter more than chasing social media trends.

- How to use your book as a gateway to bigger programs, courses, and speaking gigs.

- The mindset shift every author needs: don’t wait for perfection, start sharing your story now.

- A powerful reminder that your story, exactly as it is, can help walk others home.

Make sure to subscribe to Dina’s publication before you go!

Season 2, episode 21 is here!

In this conversation, Russell Nohelty unpacks the realities of making a living as a writer, from the hidden math of capitalism to the promise you make readers in a series.

He shares the lessons he’s learned over more than a decade of fiction and nonfiction publishing, why Kickstarter beats most retail launches, and how understanding your audience can open creative and financial doors.Sign up for the newsletter now

What we covered in today’s podcast:

- Why most authors misunderstand capitalism and how that shapes their career decisions

- The “promise” every book series must keep if you want readers to stay with you until the end

- The case for Kickstarter as the most reliable launch platform for authors right now

- How to identify your highest-value readers and build products they can’t resist

- The difference between being in a “growth” season and a “monetisation” season, and why mixing the two rarely works

- Practical strategies for writing fantasy that blends multiple mythologies while keeping structure and tone consistent

- Why disentangling your self-worth from your success is essential for a sustainable, long-term writing career

👉 Make sure to subscribe to The Author Stack before you go!

Season 2, episode 23 is here!

In this episode, George Kao shares his journey from Silicon Valley to Mexico, why he calls himself an “authentic business coach,” and the practices that have kept him going as a solopreneur for more than 16 years.

We dive into what it means to create from the soul, how to stay productive without burning out, and why boundaries and longevity matter more than any quick tactic. George’s approach is thoughtful, practical, and refreshingly calm in a noisy online world.

What we covered:

- How moving to Mexico shifted George’s energy and perspective on work

- Why he chose the label “authentic business coach” and what authenticity means in practice

- The three levels of soul-aligned work, from chasing results to working with presence

- His daily “idea machine” practice and how it fuels a steady stream of content across platforms

- The role of experimentation and feedback in naturally shaping your brand

- Key principles from his book Joyful Productivity, including working lightly and the “energy reboot”

- Why boundaries, integrity, and a long-term mindset are the foundations of a sustainable solopreneur career

👉 Make sure to subscribe to Authentic Business for Soulpreneurs before you go!

Season 2, episode 22 is here!

In this episode, Kieran Drew tells me what it was like to leave dentistry to build a thriving online writing business.

He shares how he went from zero audience to over 280,000+ readers and more than $1.3M in revenue, why storytelling became his most valuable skill, and how he balances depth, reach, and revenue in his work.

We cover everything from selling in a human way to resisting the algorithm’s pull, and why curiosity is his ultimate compass for long-term success.

What we covered:

- The moment Kieran decided to quit dentistry and bet on himself as a writer

- How one vulnerable story unlocked an audience and reshaped his approach to content

- The trap of “incentive drag” and how to avoid losing your voice to trends and algorithms

- A simple structure for selling without losing trust or turning people off

- Why brand is a long-term moat in the age of AI and how to build it authentically

- The three pillars of his business: reach, relationships, and revenue… and how Kieran balances them

- His best advice for anyone who wants to quit their job and build a writing business from scratch

👉 Make sure to subscribe to Kieran’s newsletter before you go!

The Season 2 finale is here!

In this conversation, literary agent Kate McKean offers an inside look at how publishing really works, from the first query letter to the call where an author hears their book has sold.

With more than 20 years of experience, Kate is refreshingly candid about the realities of writing, rejection, marketing, and building a sustainable career.

If you’ve ever wondered what an agent looks for (or what you should actually focus on as a writer), this one’s packed with clarity.

What we covered:

- How Kate became a literary agent and what her role actually involves day-to-day

- What makes a query stand out and the moment she knows she wants to represent a book

- Why chasing publishing trends is a losing game and what authors should focus on instead

- The difference between platform and brand, and why nonfiction writers can’t afford to ignore platform

- Why sincerity and vulnerability matter more than hot takes or cleverness in today’s market

- The biggest red flags authors should watch for when querying agents or publishers

- How to reframe rejection and see it as part of the process, not a verdict on you as a writer

👉 Make sure to subscribe to Kate McKean before you go!

Season 3 is here!

In this solo kickoff to season three, I dive into one of the topics I care about most right now: writer branding.

I unpack why it matters more than ever in 2025, how to think about it in practical terms, and the first steps you can take today to start building a brand readers remember and trust.

What I covered:

- Why trust, not words alone, is the real currency readers buy into

- How clarity of voice, values, and vision cuts through the endless noise online

- Why your brand should outlast any platform, and how to future-proof your work

- The “writer brand triangle” exercise to define your core voice, values, and vision

- Why deciding what you’re not about is just as important as deciding what you are about

- How to create clear entry points for readers so they instantly know who you are and who you serve

- The role of community, practice, and feedback in turning your brand from a list of words into something that fuels real income

➡️ Find out more about Writer Brand Lab here. ✍️

Season 3, episode 2 is here!

In this conversation, poet and marketer Shelby Leigh shares her path from self-publishing to traditional publishing, the lessons she’s learned about building an audience of hundreds of thousands, and why protecting your mental health is just as important as consistency.

Shelby is honest about the lonely stretches, generous with her marketing strategies, and full of encouragement for writers figuring out how to turn words into a living.

What we covered:

- How Shelby went from anonymously posting poetry on Tumblr to selling books that attracted a Big Five publisher

- The role Instagram and TikTok played in her early growth and why she later narrowed her focus to fewer platforms

- Why consistency and personal storytelling helped her audience grow past half a million followers

- The visual and tonal elements that make a writer’s brand feel cohesive and recognisable

- How to set boundaries and build breaks into your creative life without losing momentum

- The biggest myth about marketing that holds writers back and a mindset shift to make it easier

- Shelby’s best advice for building confidence, growing an email list, and sustaining your writing career long term

Don’t forget to subscribe to Shelby on YouTube.

Season 3, episode 3 is here!

In this conversation, Anfernee shares his journey from corporate work into solopreneurship, why he started The Solopreneur Code, and how he helps one-person businesses find more freedom without getting stuck in constant hustle.

We talk about growth on Substack, the realities of building digital products, and why mindset is often the difference between staying stuck and moving forward.

What we covered:

- How Anfernee transitioned from corporate life to running his own business

- The early days of The Solopreneur Code and why he chose Substack as his main platform

- What steady, sustainable growth looks like and how he thinks about audience building

- The role of digital products in creating income streams for solopreneurs

- How he uses AI as a tool to save time without losing a personal touch

- The most common mistakes solopreneurs make when trying to scale too fast

- Why clarity, focus, and systems matter more than chasing trends

Don’t forget to subscribe to The Solopreneur Code before you go!

Season 3, episode 18 is here!

My friend Jari Roomer from Write Build Scale joined me for a conversation about the most powerful growth lever on Substack.

We talked about why collaboration matters more than ever, how to approach other creators without feeling awkward, and the specific strategies that brought us thousands of subscribers without spending a dime on ads.

What we covered:

- Why collaborations are the antidote to publishing in the void, and how they make the entire Substack journey more enjoyable while getting your work in front of audiences that already want what you offer

- The guest posting approach that creates evergreen pathways for discovery months after you publish, turning one piece of content into a long-term subscriber magnet that keeps working while you sleep

- Newsletter recommendations as the ultimate set-it-and-forget-it growth strategy, how Jari gained over 8,000 subscribers in 2025 from recommendations alone, and why most creators hesitate to reach out when it’s actually a win-win scenario

- Going live on Substack as the collaboration format that builds the deepest connections, lets your audience see you’re a real person when things go wrong, and makes it easier for introverts who can share the talking with a guest

- The exact DM approach that gets more yes responses to collaboration requests, including why you should offer multiple collaboration options and how to make it as easy as possible for someone to say yes

- How to use AI as a ghostwriting tool rather than a crutch by recording 30-minute voice memos of your thoughts and stories, then letting AI handle the actual writing process while keeping your authentic voice intact

- The ladder strategy for linking posts that guides readers to take the next step up rather than sending them sideways through your archive, and why fewer links actually create more conversions than overwhelming people with options

Season 3, episode 17 is here!

In this episode, I sit down with my old school friend Stuart Thompson, who now runs a long-standing gym here in Northern Ireland.

We talk about what it really takes to build a business over nearly a decade - not just systems and social media, but relationships, energy, and knowing your limits. We also cover fitness, creativity, confidence, and turning up consistently even when no one’s watching.

This is an honest, practical, and surprisingly relevant chat, whether you run a gym, write online, or are just trying to build something for the long haul.

What we covered:

- How Stuart’s gym actually started

- The underrated power of handwritten notes

- Why not growing up sporty helped nurture Stuart’s story

- Why confidence comes from reps (in fitness and in writing)

- What it’s like running a people business as an introvert

- Why asking for reviews is awkward but necessary

- Why sticking around matters

Make sure to check out Cross Functional Fitness before you go!

Season 3, episode 8 is here!

In this episode, Walter Rhein and I dive deep into the world of fantasy writing - where stories begin, how they evolve, and why imagination still matters in an increasingly practical world.

Worldbuilding, villains, the power of silliness - this conversation explores what makes great fantasy resonate and how writers can keep the spark of creativity alive as they grow older.

What we covered:

- The real connection between nature, folklore, and the fantasy worlds we create

- How mythology from different cultures shapes modern fantasy storytelling

- Why dialogue and shorter stories are powerful tools for testing your ideas and growing faster as a writer

- The difference between good and lazy worldbuilding, and why overplanning kills creativity

- What makes a truly great villain, and why the best ones make you question yourself

- How writing with (and for) children can reignite your sense of wonder and play

- Practical advice for new writers on starting a fantasy novel, finding momentum, and making writing fun again

Make sure to subscribe to Walter’s publication before you go!

Season 3, episode 7 is here!

In this solo episode, I talk about one of the biggest mistakes writers make on Substack - losing readers before they’ve even hit publish.

I break down the small, overlooked details that make all the difference when someone lands on your publication for the first time, and how a few simple changes can quietly convert visitors into loyal subscribers.

If you’ve been writing great posts but not seeing much growth, this one’s for you.

What I covered:

Why most readers never discover your archive and where they actually find you instead

How to make your tagline instantly clear, confident, and reader-focused

The simple tweaks that turn your About page into a conversation instead of a résumé

How to organise your homepage so new readers know exactly where to start

Why clarity and connection will always beat cleverness and complexity

The small design and setup decisions that do your audience-building for you every day

How to fix all of this in a single afternoon using the Substack Quickfire Launch Kit

If you’d like more personalised help with Substack, consider upgrading to my VIP membership to book a 1-to-1 call and publication audit. I’d be more than happy to chat through your next steps!

Season 3, episode 6 is here!

In this conversation, Veronica Llorca-Smith and I caught up one year after our very first podcast together to talk about what’s changed, what’s grown, and what’s next.

This episode is packed with insight for anyone who wants to build a creative career that feels human, purposeful, and sustainable.

What we covered:

- How a single podcast interview led to the launch of a second Substack in Spanish

- The surprising differences between English- and Spanish-speaking creator audiences

- How Veronica attracts new coaching clients without ever doing a hard sell

- What she’s learned about scaling from one-to-one work to group coaching and cohorts

- Why public speaking has been transformational for her as a creator and a businesswoman

- How live sessions and webinars can create real community and boost paid subscriptions

- Her advice for writers: stop thinking small, and build an ecosystem around your work

Make sure to grab Speak to Scale before you go!

Season 3, episode 5 is here!

In this conversation, Peter William Murphy shares his winding path from growing up in Kerry to teaching abroad, then diving headfirst into writing without a safety net.

We talk about his love for Substack, why humor and vulnerability matter online, and how he’s channelling his earnings into building a school with his wife.

Peter also opens up about writing his first novel, the pull of Ireland as a setting, and why being open to unexpected opportunities is at the heart of his writing life.

What we covered:

Peter’s journey from teaching English in Turkey to becoming a writer and creator on Substack

Why he values having a small but engaged community more than chasing huge subscriber numbers

The role of humor, performance, and honesty in connecting with readers online

How his personal experiences with mental health shaped his writing and outlook

The vision he and his wife have for building a school and why he wants his writing to help fund it

The long road of writing his first novel, why it will become a trilogy, and what it’s really about

His advice for aspiring writers: be open to every form of writing and stop worrying about what others think

Make sure to subscribe to Peter’s publication before you go!

Season 3, episode 4 is here!

In this episode, I sat down with my friends in the Write • Build • Scale team - Jari, Sinem, and Philip - for a big-picture chat about the future of the creator economy.

We explored how technology is changing the game, why trust is the most valuable currency, and what it really takes to build a creator business that lasts.

Along the way, we also talked about the highs and lows of running a business together and what excites them most about where things are heading.

What we covered:

- Why the creator economy will only get bigger in the next five years and what that means for new and established creators

- How AI and no-code tools are making it easier than ever to launch digital products and communities

- Why trust and personal connection will matter more than content volume as AI makes publishing effortless

- The difference between being a “guru” and a “guide” and why one builds stronger long-term businesses

- The incomplete advice around “just be consistent” and what actually makes consistency work

- Why picking one platform and mastering it beats spreading yourself too thin across multiple channels

- How working as a team has changed their approach to business, what they love about collaborating, and what’s next for Write Build Scale

🚨 Don’t forget to sign up for their FREE masterclass here.

Season 3, episode 16 is here!

In this week’s episode, Parker Worth and I chat about his journey from being a high school dropout to becoming a successful creator living in Brazil.

Parker discusses the importance of storytelling in building a personal brand and the challenges of navigating the ever-changing landscape of online content creation, and emphasises the need for creators to build relationships and trust with their audience, write real-life stories that convert, and understand their audience’s pain points.

What we cover:

- Parker Worth’s journey from electrician to creator in Brazil.

- The significance of storytelling in personal branding.

- How to navigate the challenges of the online creator landscape.

- Why building relationships and trust with your audience is crucial.

- How using personal stories can lead to higher engagement.

- Why understanding audience pain points is essential for content creation.

- Why embracing fear can lead to significant personal and professional growth.

Make sure to subscribe to Parker’s newsletter before you go!