TL McCoy didn’t plan to write a middle-grade fantasy novel. But when she learned that only 3.4% of children’s books feature disabled protagonists, and her own granddaughter was diagnosed with Dravet Syndrome, Delilah Versus the Ghastly Grim was born.

How do you tell your story in a way that truly connects? In this episode of Writer Unblocked, I sit down with Dr. Rod Berger—global interviewer, communication architect, and author of The Narrative Edge—to explore how storytelling shapes not just our books, but our identities as authors.

Rod has interviewed over 4,000 people worldwide, from Pope Francis to NBA legend Magic Johnson and F1 Champion Jenson Button. With his debut book releasing November 12, he shares why storytelling isn’t just a writing skill—it’s a tool for self-worth, connection, and building an authentic author brand.

Tired of feeling like marketing your book means becoming a full-time influencer? In this episode of Writer Unblocked, Nicole sits down with Hannah, founder of Made with Boldness, a marketing strategist who helps fiction authors build readership without burning out.

Hannah shares practical, stress-free ways to promote your books—starting with the three biggest mistakes she sees authors make.

Edoardo Ballerini is one of the most beloved voices in modern audiobooks. In this episode, we dive into the personal side of voice acting: how Edoardo accidentally missed two years of fan messages (don’t worry, we answer some of them!), why audiobooks are uniquely intimate, and the beautiful, unexpected responses he's received from listeners in pain, grief, and joy.

In this episode, Nicole sits down with Rebecca Fenton—a self-employed media consultant with experience across TV, publishing, audio, and children’s books. Together they explore what it takes to develop original content in today’s saturated landscape, how feedback elevates a good project to a great one, and why authors need to think like creative strategists building a slate, not just a single book.

Bestselling author Nic DiDomizio joins Nicole for a conversation that’s equal parts hilarious, heartfelt, and brutally honest. In this candid episode, Nic pulls back the curtain on what it really takes to make it in traditional publishing—from query letter heartbreak to near-deals that died in acquisitions, and the unexpected role James Patterson played in his debut.

In this soulful and honest episode of Writer Unblocked, Nicole sits down with writer and developmental editor Victoria Jane to unpack what really goes into shaping a strong novel—and a resilient author. They talk about the power of developmental editing, how to support sensitive and neurodivergent writers (including those with ADHD), and why writing doesn’t have to be perfect to be powerful.

In this episode of Writer Unblocked, I sit down with literary agent and soon-to-be certified financial coach Linda Camacho. With 20 years in the publishing industry, Linda offers unfiltered insights into what makes a manuscript stand out, how rights work, and what really happens behind the scenes when your book is on submission. We also talk about the rise of self-publishing, the emotional toll of rejection, and why understanding money as a creative is essential. If you're serious about building a writing career—this is a must-listen.

Are you constantly distracted when you sit down to write? Do you find yourself stuck in an endless scroll, even though you meant to open your manuscript? You’re not alone—and it’s not your fault. In this solo episode, Nicole dives into Stolen Focus by Johann Hari and unpacks how our attention is being hijacked by modern life—and what authors can do to reclaim it.

What if the biggest thing blocking your progress... is you?

In this episode of Writer Unblocked, I’m joined by conflict resolution coach and author Dana Bernstein, whose book It’s the Thought That Counts: Mastering the Art of YOU vs. you is an empowering guide to untangling your thoughts, owning your identity, and getting out of your own way.

What happens when a hip-hop artist turns his lyrical fire toward children's books? You get Rhymosaurs—a brilliant mashup of storytelling, rhythm, and prehistoric swagger that’s turning picky eaters and fussy sleepers into poetry-loving dino fans.

In this high-energy episode, Nicole chats with Orlando Molina, the creative force behind Rhymosaurs, about how he went from laying down bars in studios to writing rhyming picture books that actually slap. Orlando opens up about his unexpected pivot into children’s publishing, how a life-changing move to Norway shifted his path, and why poetry is a secret weapon for child development.

In this solo episode, Nicole breaks down the key ideas behind The 12 Week Year and how this framework can radically shift the way you write, publish, and promote your book. She shares how she’s adapted the method into a full author success system—and how you can too.

Whether you're drafting, revising, querying, or marketing your work, this approach gives you a plan with urgency, structure, and momentum. Plus, Nicole introduces her group program, The Strategic Author, designed to help writers stop spinning their wheels and start hitting their goals with clarity and community.

Your author website shouldn't just sit there looking pretty—it should work for you. In this episode, I chat with web designer and strategist Kate Cross, who specializes in creating websites that actually help authors sell books, grow newsletters, and connect with readers.

Kate also shares her thoughts on the best platforms (Wix vs. Squarespace vs. WordPress), how to build a site that reflects your genre and personality, and why you might be scaring off potential readers with your contact form (yikes).

In this episode, Nicole discusses the concept of author resilience, emphasizing that it is an ongoing journey rather than a one-time achievement. She shares her personal experiences in building a coaching business for authors and highlights the importance of self-kindness and acceptance during challenging times. Nicole encourages authors to recognize their feelings of self-doubt and imposter syndrome as natural, and to develop coping mechanisms to navigate these emotions. The conversation concludes with a reminder that resilience is a continuous practice that all authors must cultivate throughout their careers.

Today on Writer Unblocked, I’m chatting with audiobook narrator Samantha Norbury.

Samantha shares her journey from theater to audiobook narration, the importance of quality production for indie authors, and the impact of AI voices on the industry. We also talk about the emotional connection of this craft, the use of pseudonyms, and the growing accessibility of stories through audiobooks.

Today on Writer Unblocked, I’m chatting with Meredith Kasian! Meredith shares her journey as an author, discussing her debut novel, The Wielder's Discovery. We delve into the inspiration behind her story, the character development, and the intricate world-building that combines elements of science and magic. She is a chemical engineer, afterall!  Meredith also provides insights into her writing and editing process, the challenges of self-publishing, her strategic plan for the audiobook, and the importance of balancing creativity with the business of being an author. 

Today on Writer Unblocked, I’m chatting with author and publisher Tanya Anne Crosby! Tanya Anne is a New York Times and USA Today best-selling author of thirty novels. She’s been featured in People, Romantic Times, and Publishers Weekly, and her books have been translated into eight languages. Tanya Anne shares her journey from traditional publishing to becoming a successful indie author and publisher. She discusses the importance of testing cover art, the significance of managing a backlist and delves into the growth of her publishing company, Oliver Heber Books.

In this conversation, Ashton M. Smith shares her journey into the world of book design, emphasizing the importance of cover art in attracting readers, especially in the self-publishing landscape. She discusses her educational background, her passion for helping indie authors, and the detailed process she follows to create compelling book covers. We delve into the intricacies of book cover design, the evolution of cover art trends, and the psychological impact of cover designs on readers. Ashton shares insights on how familiarity in design can attract readers, the challenges posed by movie tie-ins, and offers valuable advice for authors navigating the cover design process.

Today on Writer Unblocked, I’m chatting with author Kara M. Zone about her amazing book Cinders Burn at Midnight - which I am devouring. I loved this conversation, we covered so much. First off, Kara is an advocate and educator on the indie publishing industry. I think she is so smart in her approach and strategy for writing and releasing this book. I loved how open and vulnerable she is about the underlying trauma themes in the book and her own experience with C-PTSD and the impact it has on her writing. We chat about audiobooks, formatting, resources and of course, Kara’s plan for the next 12 months.

Today on Writer Unblocked, I’m chatting with author Robin Brooks. Her journey is a testament to perseverance and rediscovering joy in writing. She’s a full-time working mom who decided to pursue her dream of writing and publishing a book, proving it’s never too late to show up for yourself. From enduring soul-crushing query rejections to revisions and ultimately landing her agent, she’s faced it all with determination. Her story is not just about chasing a dream but about learning, evolving, and embracing the messy, beautiful process of being an author. Join me as we dive into her inspiring journey of writing, querying, rejection and finding a home for her story.