Behind-the-Scenes of Becoming a First-Time Author With Sam Vander Wielen

What does the publishing world look like from a first-time author’s perspective? As editors, it’s important for us to understand the process they go through as they publish their first book.

In this episode of The Modern Editor Podcast, I’m joined by first-time author Sam Vander Wielan. Her new book, When I Start My Business, I’ll Be Happy, is a practical and transparent guide for online entrepreneurs.

We dive into choosing the right book title, working with a book coach, the editor-author relationship, how your online platform plays a role in landing a book deal, and so much more. You’re going to love this jam-packed episode!

Important Sections:

• (2:00) From Corporate Lawyer to Entrepreneur: Meet Sam Vander Wielan
• (6:38) Build Your Business Around a Great Idea, Not What You Love Doing
• (8:27) Behind the Scenes of Choosing a Book Title
• (12:27) How a Birth-Chart Reading Led to a Book Deal
• (17:09) All Roads Lead to the Email List
• (20:42) The Writing Process as a First-Time Author
• (27:17) Writing From a Place of Transparency
• (31:46) The Editor-Author Relationship
• (37:37) The Perks of Being a Second-Time Author
• (44:37) Lead With Curiosity

Connect With Sam:

• Book: When I Start My Business, I’ll Be Happy
• Podcast: On Your Terms
• Website: samvanderwielen.com

Resources Mentioned:

• Kit Studios
• Richelle Fredson
• Wendy Sherman
• ManyChat
• Kit (formerly ConvertKit)

Work with Me:

• Grab the Editing Contract Template
• Join the Freelance Editors Club