If you've ever wondered what it really takes to become a successful author, this episode is your reality check — and your encouragement.

In this candid and heart-to-heart conversation, New York Times bestselling author S.E. Smith and author business strategist Narelle Todd from Get My Book Out There share the truths, surprises, and lessons they wish someone had told them before starting their author careers.

You'll discover:

• Why today's publishing landscape is harder — and how to stay ahead of constant change
• The hidden challenges of Amazon, KU, and other platforms (and how to protect your business)
• The real emotional cost of editing and perfectionism — and how to beat "analysis paralysis"
• Why mindset matters more than marketing when it comes to long-term success
• How comparison steals your joy and the practical ways to stay focused on your own path
• The rewarding moments that make every challenge worth it

Whether you're an aspiring or established indie author, this episode will remind you why you started, what's possible, and how to keep going — even when the journey gets tough.

🎧 Honest, inspiring, and packed with wisdom for self-published authors building a sustainable creative business.

👉 Like and subscribe.

👉 Ready to scale your author business? Work with Narelle:

https://www.getmybookoutthere.com/learn/

✨ Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/narelletodd/

👉 Looking for an awesome read: https://www.sesmithfl.com

✨ Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/sesmithfl

In this episode, Narelle Todd and New York Times Bestselling author S.E. Smith dive deep into the future of writing, reading, and business for authors in the age of AI. 💡

From the ethics of AI training on authors' works to how writers can harness automation to free up creative time, this is a grounded, eye-opening conversation about how technology is reshaping publishing.

You'll hear both perspectives — the tech optimist and the storyteller — as they explore:

• Whether AI is a threat or a tool for authors
• How to use AI to reduce admin time and grow your business
• The truth about piracy, copyright, and author compensation
• Why adaptability is the new superpower for creatives
• How AI can give authors more freedom, focus, and fun

Narelle and Susan share real-world examples, from using AI agents to handle book promotions to how automations are giving authors their weekends back.

If you've ever wondered how AI will impact your creative career — this conversation will inspire and empower you to adapt without losing your voice.

🎧 Tune in for mindset, marketing, and momentum insights that help you future-proof your author business.

👉 Like and subscribe.

👉 Ready to scale your author business? Work with Narelle: https://www.getmybookoutthere.com/learn/

✨ Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/narelletodd/

👉 Looking for an awesome read: https://www.sesmithfl.com

✨ Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/sesmithfl

Giving away a free book has long been the go-to strategy for authors building their email lists—but does it still work? In this episode, Narelle Todd and New York Times bestselling author S.E. Smith dive into why the traditional freebie model is losing steam and explore innovative ways to attract—and keep—your ideal readers. From music playlists and personality quizzes to love letters from your characters, you'll discover fresh, fun, and meaningful ways to connect with readers beyond the free book.

Learn how to create an experience your readers will remember—and why understanding your reader avatar is the secret ingredient behind every successful giveaway.

👉 Like and subscribe.

👉 Ready to scale your author business? Work with Narelle: https://www.getmybookoutthere.com/learn/

✨ Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/narelletodd/

👉 Looking for an awesome read: https://www.sesmithfl.com

✨ Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/sesmithfl