Explore every episode of the podcast Traditionally Self-Published with Mica Merrill Rice
| Title | Pub. Date | Duration | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Part Two: How to Make Your Author Website Work for You: Blogs, Press Kits & Reader Discovery | 25 Mar 2026 | 00:17:48 | |
You have your author website, but how can you make it work harder? Last episode, I talked with Elina Haverinen about why writers need websites. In this episode, I’m taking it a step further and focus on what you can actually do with your website once it’s built. Your website can be more than just a landing page; it can also support your writing career, help readers discover your work, and create opportunities behind the scenes. In this episode, I cover three practical ways to elevate your website without overcomplicating it:
I also share a few of my favorite technical tips for authors—from optimizing SEO descriptions to using alt text and linking strategies—to help your site work for you long-term. These small practical steps can help make your website stand out and get discovered over time. Websites Referenced in this Episode:
Have a publishing question? Email me at mica@micamerrillrice.com Subscribe to The Night Writer Newsletter Website: micamerrillrice.com Instagram: @micamriceauthor Facebook: @micamriceauthor TikTok: @micamriceauthor "Traditionally Self-Published" theme music is written by Landon Bailey and performed and produced by LNDÖ | |||
| Part One: Do Writers Really Need a Website? Branding, SEO & Sustainable Marketing with Elina Haverinen | 10 Mar 2026 | 00:26:54 | |
Do writers really need a website anymore? With social platforms constantly changing, many authors wonder whether building a site is even worth it. In this episode, website designer and brand strategist Elina Haverinen joins me to talk about why websites still matter—and how writers can approach branding and marketing in a way that feels sustainable instead of overwhelming. Elina has spent more than eight years helping creatives and small business owners build websites, brands, and marketing strategies that actually support their work. Together we unpack what writers really need online (and what they don’t), why branding is often misunderstood, and how authors can create a digital presence that grows alongside their writing career. In this episode, we discuss:
Elina also shares her five best tips for writers building their online presence and how authors can start small without getting overwhelmed. Elina Haverinen is a writer and designer who works with creatives and small, thoughtful businesses. In her studio, she builds brands, websites, and marketing expressions that remember what they're made from – speaking in their own voice, from spirit to structure, from message to form. You can find her at: Website: elinah.studio Substack: allthatyouare.substack.com Have a publishing question? Email me at mica@micamerrillrice.com Subscribe to The Night Writer Newsletter Website: micamerrillrice.com Instagram: @micamriceauthor Facebook: @micamriceauthor TikTok: @micamriceauthor "Traditionally Self-Published" theme music is written by Landon Bailey and performed and produced by LNDÖ | |||
| Cover Stories: How to Make Your Book Stand Out with Miblart | 21 Oct 2025 | 00:29:51 | |
"Do your research." - Artem Sahaidak In this episode, we sit down with marketing lead Artem Sahaidak at Miblart/Get Covers to talk about all things cover art and what to look for when you’re ready to get one. We discussed:
About Miblart Miblart is a creative design agency specializing in custom book covers for indie authors. Known for its artistic quality and market-focused approach, Miblart helps writers stand out on platforms like Amazon and beyond with covers that captivate readers and boost sales. With thousands of projects completed, their work combines creativity, professionalism, and a deep understanding of book marketing. You can find them here: Have a publishing question? Email me at mica@micamerrillrice.com Subscribe to The Night Writer Newsletter Website: micamerrillrice.com Instagram: @micamriceauthor Facebook: @micamriceauthor TikTok: @micamriceauthor "Traditionally Self-Published" theme music is written by Landon Bailey and performed and produced by LNDÖ | |||
| From Killer Plots to Killer Marketing with Saleema Ishq | 07 Oct 2025 | 00:29:07 | |
“Treat marketing like storytelling instead of advertising…” - Saleema Ishq In this episode, thriller author and TikTok book marketing influencer Saleema Ishq joins me to talk about the craft of writing page-turning stories and how to grow your readership through BookTok. In this conversation, we dive into:
About Saleema: Saleema Ishq is a former copywriter turned award-winning thriller author who accidentally fell in love with book marketing while launching her debut novel. Since then, she’s sold thousands of books, built a TikTok community of 16k+ readers, and picked up a few awards and media shoutouts along the way (all without burning out or selling out). Now she helps other authors do the same, making marketing feel authentic, sustainable, and even fun. Free Social Media Kit for TSP listeners from Salmeema: Resources mentioned in our podcast:
Connect with Saleema on:
Have a publishing question? Email me at mica@micamerrillrice.com Subscribe to The Night Writer Newsletter Website: micamerrillrice.com Instagram: @micamriceauthor Facebook: @micamriceauthor TikTok: @micamriceauthor "Traditionally Self-Published" theme music is written by Landon Bailey and performed and produced by LNDÖ | |||
| From Blank Page to Breakthroughs: Lessons from a Writing Coach | 23 Sep 2025 | 00:28:57 | |
“As long as we are making progress everyday toward that goal, we will get through the imposter syndrome…” - Edy Hackett In this episode, I sit down with Edy Hackett, an author and seasoned writing coach, to talk about what it really takes to keep going and build a solid habit that you can commit to for the long term. We discussed:
Whether you’re staring down a blank page or dreaming of finally writing the book, this episode is packed with encouragement, strategies, and insight to help you build sustainable habits so you can show up for your writing and honor your gift. If you are interested in learning more about Edy Hackett's coaching, please follow her links below: Have a publishing question? Email me at mica@micamerrillrice.com Subscribe to The Night Writer Newsletter Website: micamerrillrice.com Instagram: @micamriceauthor Facebook: @micamriceauthor TikTok: @micamriceauthor "Traditionally Self-Published" theme music is written by Landon Bailey and performed and produced by LNDÖ | |||
| Breaking Free: How One Writer Built Her Publishing Path with Maria Glymph | 07 Sep 2025 | 00:38:49 | |
“When the characters take over, let ‘em.” - Maria Glymph In this episode, we sit down with author and indie press owner, Maria Glymph, to talk about her newest release Biography of Deception, her self-publishing journey, and the road to founding Modern Odyssey Books. She shares with us: - A look behind Biography of Deception, a literary mystery, and what inspired it - Why she chose the self-publishing route - What inspired her to go from self-published author to founder of her own indie press: Modern Odyssey Books. - Advice for authors who are considering options for their publishing journey About Maria: Maria Glymph is a writer who explores poetry, fiction, essays, and hybrid forms, guided by the belief that each story finds the shape most fitting for its tale. An avid reader and art lover, she draws inspiration from diverse voices and creative expressions. Alongside her own work, Maria is the founder and publisher of Modern Odyssey Books, where she champions global authors and innovative narratives. She divides her time between her writing and building Modern Odyssey into a respected independent press. Learn more at mariaglymph.com and modernodysseybooks.com. Have a publishing question? Email me at mica@micamerrillrice.com Subscribe to The Night Writer Newsletter Website: micamerrillrice.com Instagram: @micamriceauthor Facebook: @micamriceauthor TikTok: @micamriceauthor "Traditionally Self-Published" theme music is written by Landon Bailey and performed and produced by LNDÖ | |||
| Back-to-School 101: What Your Developmental Editor Really Wants You to Know with Nicole Meier | 07 Sep 2025 | 00:27:56 | |
"Don't let your plot happen to your character." In this episode, we are sitting down with a developmental editor to talk through developmental editing. By the end of this episode, you will understand who they are and their critical role in your self-publishing journey. We covered story structure, plot, pacing and character arc and ways for an indie author to get the various parts of editing done on a budget. At the end, Nicole leaves us with five actionable tips that you can do right now to help elevate your writing. Nicole Meier is a certified book coach, developmental editor, and author of four novels. Her books have been recognized by Booklist, Refinery29, BookBub, and Popsugar. She is the host of The Whole Writer podcast for emerging authors and co-founder of bookworks.co. Nicole lives and works in the Pacific Northwest and can be found at:
Have a publishing question? Email me at mica@micamerrillrice.com Subscribe to The Night Writer Newsletter Website: micamerrillrice.com Instagram: @micamriceauthor Facebook: @micamriceauthor TikTok: @micamriceauthor "Traditionally Self-Published" theme music is written by Landon Bailey and performed and produced by LNDÖ | |||
| Back-to-School 101: Copyediting Basics Without the Shame Spiral with Jayne Marshall | 07 Sep 2025 | 00:39:40 | |
Today, we delve into the world of copyediting and how it applies to your self-publishing journey. In this episode, you will get a better understanding of the difference between the developmental editor and the copyeditor, when you might want to bring one onboard, common misunderstandings, preserving the author’s tone and so much more. By the end of this episode, you will have a solid grasp of what a copyeditor is and Jayne’s five best tips that you can put into play to give your manuscript a grade up. Jayne Marshall is an author and a developmental editor at Modern Odyssey Books. Her latest book, A Line Drawn or Printed: Six Routes Through Madrid, can be found at all fine retailers. She currently resides in Spain. You can also follow her by visiting one of her sites below:
Have a publishing question? Email me at mica@micamerrillrice.com Subscribe to The Night Writer Newsletter Website: micamerrillrice.com Instagram: @micamriceauthor Facebook: @micamriceauthor TikTok: @micamriceauthor "Traditionally Self-Published" theme music is written by Landon Bailey and performed and produced by LNDÖ | |||
| Welcome to the Chaos: Why I Chose the Indie Publishing Path and Brought the Mic Along With Me | 07 Sep 2025 | 00:12:28 | |
"Self-Publishing is not a fallback plan. It is a tool in your toolbox." Hi! I'm Mica Merrill Rice, your podcast captain speaking, and I'm here to guide us through thoughtful discussions with authors and industry professionals so that you can confidently and professionally self-publish your book like a trad-author. In this episode, I share with you - a little bit about me - my journey to becoming a writer - the wins and woes of publishing my first book - and the why behind starting this podcast. So let's be bold. Write Smart. And Keep Turning the Pages. Have a publishing question? Email me at mica@micamerrillrice.com Subscribe to The Night Writer Newsletter Website: micamerrillrice.com Instagram: @micamriceauthor Facebook: @micamriceauthor TikTok: @micamriceauthor "Traditionally Self-Published" theme music is written by Landon Bailey and performed and produced by LNDÖ | |||
| TRAILER: Welcome to Traditionally Self-Published | 09 Aug 2025 | 00:01:38 | |
Let's Be Bold. Write Smart. And Keep Readers Turing The Pages. Traditionally Self-Published is the podcast for authors who want to learn how to self-publish with the polish of traditional publishing but without giving up their creative freedom. Whether you are just starting your very first book or you are ready to hit publish on your tenth, this show gives you the all-access backstage pass to the strategies, tools, and plenty of inspiration to help you publish like the pros. Join host Mica Merrill Rice--author, indie publishing advocate, self-proclaimed "Plot Twister," and lifelong learner--as she talks with industry editors, coaches, marketers and authors...both indie and traditional. You will leave each episode with actionable advice, professional insights, and real stories from writers who are building thriving careers or just releasing their first pages. So join her and write bold, publish smart, and keep those readers turning the pages. The first season kicks off on September 7th, 2025. Have a publishing question? Email me at mica@micamerrillrice.com Subscribe to The Night Writer Newsletter Website: micamerrillrice.com Instagram: @micamriceauthor Facebook: @micamriceauthor TikTok: @micamriceauthor "Traditionally Self-Published" theme music is written by Landon Bailey and performed and produced by LNDÖ | |||
| Elevating Your Prose: The Craft Shift from Commercial to Literary Fiction | 24 Feb 2026 | 00:31:43 | |
How do you elevate your prose without rewriting your entire story? In this craft-focused discussion, I’m joined by editors, AJ Volante and Margie Libling from The Wednesday Refinery to talk about sentence-level revision, literary voice, and the difference between commercial and literary fiction. If you’re revising a manuscript, preparing a query package, or trying to refine your prose, this episode breaks down what actually strengthens fiction at the line level. After a chance class on prose refinement with them, I saw a shift in my own thriller, not in the plot, but in the sentences. In this conversation, we explore how elevated prose comes from precision, restraint, and voice rather than adding more description or complexity. We dive into:
This episode is for fiction writers working on revision, literary fiction, thrillers, or preparing to query. If you’re trying to move from commercial structure toward a stronger literary voice, this conversation will help you understand how prose refinement shapes a manuscript. About The Wednesday Refinery Run by AJ Volante and Margie Libling, The Wednesday Refinery offers manuscript editing and query guidance. About AJ: AJ first started writing and editing for museum exhibits and gaming companies before realizing she wanted to help writers with their manuscripts. Margie is a former social worker who now writes and edits full-time. She is the author of two adult fiction novels and is currently working on a third. When not at her desk, Margie spends time with her husband, two daughters, and rescue dogs. You can learn more about them here:
Have a publishing question? Email me at mica@micamerrillrice.com Subscribe to The Night Writer Newsletter Website: micamerrillrice.com Instagram: @micamriceauthor Facebook: @micamriceauthor TikTok: @micamriceauthor "Traditionally Self-Published" theme music is written by Landon Bailey and performed and produced by LNDÖ | |||
| Writing a Killer Psychological Thriller with Nicole Annbury | 10 Feb 2026 | 00:37:41 | |
In this episode, I’m joined by my good friend and thriller author Nicole Annbury to talk about what it really takes to write a psychological thriller that kills. (all puns intended!) We take a deep dive into the craft behind her newest novel, The Signature Line, and explore why the psychology is the story. This is a must-listen for writers interested in psychological thriller writing, and character-driven storytelling, as well as readers who love dark, emotionally layered thrillers. We also discuss:
About the book: The Signature Line is a psychological thriller about Dr. Carmella Carey, a feminist therapist who runs a controversial program called "Year of Self" while hiding dark secrets. When she promotes the program on TV, it angers Dylan Foster, a men's rights advocate seeking his ex-girlfriend who joined Dr. Carey's program. As Dylan's threats escalate and a serial killer begins targeting the women in the program, both characters find themselves on a collision course. This page-turning thriller examines the ultimate price of control and the dangerous consequences when ideology turns deadly. About Nicole: Nicole Annbury is a writer of dark fiction in the thriller, psychological suspense, and mystery genres. She currently lives in Indiana with her husband and three cats. When she's not writing, she enjoys nature walks, true crime documentaries, reality TV viewing and going on drives with her husband. For more information about upcoming releases, go to her website: nicoleannbury.com Have a publishing question? Email me at mica@micamerrillrice.com Subscribe to The Night Writer Newsletter Website: micamerrillrice.com Instagram: @micamriceauthor Facebook: @micamriceauthor TikTok: @micamriceauthor "Traditionally Self-Published" theme music is written by Landon Bailey and performed and produced by LNDÖ | |||
| The Voice Behind the Bestsellers: A Conversation with Robb Moreira | 20 Jan 2026 | 01:03:54 | |
In this episode of Traditionally Self-Published, we sit down with professional audiobook narrator Robb Moreira to talk about what it really takes to bring stories to life in audio—and what authors and aspiring narrators need to know before stepping behind the mic. Robb has recorded for authors like Rebecca Yarros, James Patterson, Megan Lally, Frieda McFadden, Mica Merrill Rice, and so many more! Robb shares how he got started in audiobook narration, the project that helped define his career, and why audiobook narration is about far more than having a good voice. We also dive into the realities of audiobook production, self-narration, and how AI is impacting the voice narration space. We Discuss:
We conclude with the INK STARTER LIGHTNING ROUND and Robb’s 5 Best Tips for Authors and Aspiring Narrators. About Robb: Robb Moreira is a Bilingual Voice Actor and audiobook narrator with over a decade of experience behind the microphone. With 7 years of Conservatory Acting training and over 10 years of stage experience, Robb was looking for something different. A chance conversation with a fellow actor changed his theater trajectory to one of voiceover and Robb never looked back. With over 200 audiobook credits and several voice award nominations (and wins!), Robb continues to venture further into the audiobook world and sees a very busy future in the genre. Keep an eye out for future titles! Where to find Robb: Socials: @robbmorieravo Website: https://www.robbmoreiravo.com/ You can also catch his voice on audiobooks via most major retailers! Have a publishing question? Email me at mica@micamerrillrice.com Subscribe to The Night Writer Newsletter Website: micamerrillrice.com Instagram: @micamriceauthor Facebook: @micamriceauthor TikTok: @micamriceauthor "Traditionally Self-Published" theme music is written by Landon Bailey and performed and produced by LNDÖ | |||
| Creating the Rules with Ania Ray: Why Women Writers Thrive in Community | 06 Jan 2026 | 00:54:38 | |
In this episode of Traditionally Self-Published, we discuss Creating the Rules, a women's fiction novel by Ania Ray, and explore why women writers thrive when they choose community over isolation. Ania shares the inspiration behind the book, her journey as an indie author, and how building intentional writing spaces changes the creative process. We Discuss:
About Ania: Ania Ray is a mama, author, and CEO of Quill & Cup, a fiercely supportive community of women who are committed to prioritizing progress on their novel and making rest a non-negotiable. When she’s not curating curriculum, hosting events, or teaching research-backed mindset tools to empower women, she’s hanging out with her family. To fill her cup, catch her hiking, planning her next trip, or enjoying a delicious meal with loved ones. The Cromwell Rules is her debut women’s fiction trilogy, where each woman must face the worst of herself before she becomes the hero of her story. Where to find Ania Ray: Instagram: @theaniassey Books: https://www.thecromwellrules.com Writing group, Quill & Cup: www.quillandcup.com Ania's podcast : Her Life, Her Rules Have a publishing question? Email me at mica@micamerrillrice.com Subscribe to The Night Writer Newsletter Website: micamerrillrice.com Instagram: @micamriceauthor Facebook: @micamriceauthor TikTok: @micamriceauthor "Traditionally Self-Published" theme music is written by Landon Bailey and performed and produced by LNDÖ | |||
| Writing Historical Fiction with Truth and Tradition: A Conversation with Catherine Astl | 16 Dec 2025 | 00:34:47 | |
In this episode of Traditionally Self-Published, I sit down with historical fiction author and English Literature teacher Catherine Astl to talk about her novel Christmas Serenades—a deeply rooted Smoky Mountain Christmas story filled with truth, tradition, and meticulously researched history. Catherine shares how her lifelong connection to the Great Smoky Mountains shaped her storytelling, why she stays fiercely committed to historical accuracy, and how she weaves real events and family stories into engaging fiction. We discuss the simple but meaningful holiday traditions of Cades Cove, the importance of preserving the truth even when it’s uncomfortable, and the delicate balance between factual research and narrative imagination. We Discuss:
Where to find Catherine and her book:
About Catherine: Catherine Astl, a Florida-based English Literature teacher, holds a Master’s in English-Literature and Curriculum from Southern New Hampshire University, a Bachelor’s in English-American Literature from the University of South Florida, and is a graduate of the International Summer Schools Shakespeare and Literature program at the University of Cambridge. She also has an Associate of Science in Legal Assisting and spent 27 years as a civil litigation trial paralegal before transitioning to education. Catherine has published a trade magazine column, two non-fiction books, and six Smoky Mountain Historical Fiction novels. Deeply connected to the Great Smoky Mountains—where her North Carolina roots lie—she devotes her work to preserving the stories of the people who once lived there. Inspired by childhood visits and personal ties to the region, Catherine is passionate about bringing the area's history to life, honoring the resilience and spirit of those who built communities in the park's now-preserved landscapes. Have a publishing question? Email me at mica@micamerrillrice.com Subscribe to The Night Writer Newsletter Website: micamerrillrice.com Instagram: @micamriceauthor Facebook: @micamriceauthor TikTok: @micamriceauthor "Traditionally Self-Published" theme music is written by Landon Bailey and performed and produced by LNDÖ | |||
| Mallary Tenore Tarpley on SLIP: How to Write Memoir with Truth, Empathy, and Vulnerability | 02 Dec 2025 | 01:01:06 | |
In this episode of Traditionally Self-Published, I sit down with memoirist and journalist Mallary Tenore Tarpley to talk about her new book, SLIP: Life in the Middle of Eating Disorder Recovery, and the craft of writing memoir with honesty and care. We discussed:
About our guest: Mallary Tenore Tarpley is a journalism and writing professor at the University of Texas at Austin’s Moody College of Communication and McCombs School of Business. Her writing has appeared in The New York Times, The Washington Post, Los Angeles Times, and The Dallas Morning News, among other publications. She is the recipient of a prestigious Alfred P. Sloan Foundation grant, which helped support her research and writing. Mallary graduated from Providence College and has a master’s of fine arts in nonfiction writing from Goucher College. She lives outside of Austin, Texas, with her husband and two children. Slip is her first book. Where to find Mallary and her book:
Have a publishing question? Email me at mica@micamerrillrice.com Subscribe to The Night Writer Newsletter Website: micamerrillrice.com Instagram: @micamriceauthor Facebook: @micamriceauthor TikTok: @micamriceauthor "Traditionally Self-Published" theme music is written by Landon Bailey and performed and produced by LNDÖ | |||
| What Authors Must Know About Indie Bookstores with Tombolo Books’ Alsace Walentine | 18 Nov 2025 | 00:41:51 | |
“Independent bookstores are the heart of the industry. We move books through real conversations, not algorithms. That grassroots passion is irreplaceable.” - Alsace Walentine In this episode, I chat with Alsace Walentine, co-owner of Tombolo Books, about how indie bookstores choose what goes on their shelves and what makes an author stand out. Alsace shares what really sells, the production mistakes that get books rejected, how to approach a bookseller the right way, and why community matters more than ever. In this conversation, we dive into:
Perfect for indie authors, book lovers, and anyone curious about the world behind the bookstore counter. About our guest: Alsace Walentine is the founder and co-owner of Tombolo Books in St. Petersburg, Florida. Tombolo Books is an independent bookstore dedicated to promoting the value and pleasure of reading throughout St. Petersburg by offering thoughtful inventory curation, extensive literary knowledge, and excellent customer service. Links for Tombolo Books: @tombolobooks: Facebook, Instagram, Twitter Have a publishing question? Email me at mica@micamerrillrice.com Subscribe to The Night Writer Newsletter Website: micamerrillrice.com Instagram: @micamriceauthor Facebook: @micamriceauthor TikTok: @micamriceauthor "Traditionally Self-Published" theme music is written by Landon Bailey and performed and produced by LNDÖ | |||
| Blurring the Lines: Crafting Truth Through Fiction | 04 Nov 2025 | 00:37:49 | |
“Every single word has to earn its place.” - Jayne Marshall In this episode, literary fiction author and developmental editor Jayne Marshall joins me again to talk about crafting literary fiction and how to blend fact with fiction in an engaging way. In this conversation, we dive into:
About Jayne: Jayne Marshall is an author and a developmental editor at Modern Odyssey Books. Her latest book, A Line Drawn or Printed: Six Routes Through Madrid, can be found at all fine retailers. She currently resides in Spain. You can also follow her by visiting one of her sites below:
Have a publishing question? Email me at mica@micamerrillrice.com Subscribe to The Night Writer Newsletter Website: micamerrillrice.com Instagram: @micamriceauthor Facebook: @micamriceauthor TikTok: @micamriceauthor "Traditionally Self-Published" theme music is written by Landon Bailey and performed and produced by LNDÖ | |||