Are you writing for algorithms or for actual humans? In this refreshingly honest episode of Pros Talking Prose, we’re joined by indie author legend Johnny B. Truant to talk about his upcoming book, The Artisan Author, a rebellious, soul-restoring manifesto for authors who are done with burnout and ready to love writing again.

We dive into: The myth of rapid release Why chasing bestseller lists is killing your creativity How to attract 1,000 true fans (and why that’s enough) The “Bookstore of You” philosophy Bringing back the FUN in your author business

Whether you're drowning in marketing hacks or wondering if AI is about to replace your voice, this episode is your permission slip to slow down, find joy, and build a sustainable, art-first author career.

Are you ready to quit the rat race and write on your own terms? You’re not alone. Besides keeping Austin weird, Johnny helps Troy and Stacey discover why being an artisan author is the revolution we all need.

Grab Johnny’s book and learn more: Join his Kickstarter Here: https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/johnnybtruant/the-artisan-author-your-way-out-of-the-self-pub-rat-race or just buy his book here: https://www.amazon.com/Artisan-Author-Low-Stress-High-Quality-Fan-Focused-ebook/dp/B0DPCV96XZ/ref=sr_1_1?crid=1GVE2LM1Q10SJ&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.-oCp-rbTAtnOMexXoBlVHIwuyywzhdTfVTGnI-KfT_4.4c4-FRu4e4CUavUKXd3cgM-msuXZ9VBF6jki1H5i934&dib_tag=se&keywords=johnny+b+truant+artisan+author&qid=1753401625&sprefix=johnny+b+truant+%2Caps%2C199&sr=8-1

Follow: Johnny B. Truant: https://johnnybtruantbooks.com/ Troy Lambert: https://theplotabides.com/ Stacey Smekofske: https://printtopro.com/

#ArtisanAuthor #JohnnyBTruant #IndieAuthor #AuthorBusiness #ProsTalkingProse #WritingTips #SelfPublishing #TrueFans #SlowAuthoring #CreativeBurnout #AIandAuthors #IndiePublishing

Is AI the villain in the author’s downfall—or are readers, publishers, and even fellow writers part of the problem? In this fiery episode of Pros Talking Prose, Troy and Stacey unpack the emotional, ethical, and legal minefield of AI-generated content in publishing. From TikTok's “100% Human” trend to copyright battles and the philosophical death of the author, we ask the hard questions: What is authorship in the age of machines? Can a bot tell a human story—or just mimic one? And what happens when you can’t tell the difference?

Prepare to get fired up, challenged, and maybe just a little uncomfortable.

This isn’t just about AI. It’s about what readers demand, what creators surrender, and where the soul of storytelling really lives.

#Author #HumanCreated #DeathOfTheAuthor #PublishingEthics #BookTokDebate #SelfPublishing #WritersLife #ProsTalkingProse

Think your book is getting picked up for a Netflix deal out of the blue? Think again. In this episode of Pros Talking Prose, Stacey and Troy dive headfirst into the glittery garbage fire of scams targeting indie authors. From fake PR packages and “guaranteed” bestsellers to shady Netflix pitches and vanity publishers masquerading as the real deal, we’re calling B.S. on the most common traps in your inbox.

What We Cover:

How scammers find your author info (hint: it’s not witchcraft, it’s public databases) Why “Congratulations! You’ve been selected…” should send you running Red flags in marketing, awards, publishing contracts, and pay-to-play podcasts The truth behind those $20,000 “promo packages” (spoiler: we’ve seen what’s inside) How to protect your privacy without becoming a hermit with no brand

This episode is part cautionary tale, part scam-swatting workshop, and full of hard-earned insights that could save you thousands. Whether you're a newbie author or a seasoned pro, this one’s required listening if you want to market your book without getting mugged on Main Street.

Mentioned tools & tips: PO boxes, reCAPTCHA, double opt-ins The ALLi Self-Publishing Watchdog list: https://selfpublishingadvice.org/self-publishing-services-watchdog/

Why authors should Google everything and trust nothing that starts with “Dear Author…” Listen in, laugh a little, and get scam-savvy. Your author dreams deserve more than snake oil and empty promises.

Subscribe and check out more at: PrintToPro.com ThePlotAbides.com

#AuthorScams #SelfPublishingTips #BookMarketingFails #VanityPress #PublishingScams #WritingPodcast #AuthorMarketing #IndieAuthorHelp #ProsTalkingProse #Scambaiting #authorbusiness #authorproblems