The Author Next Door
The Author Next Door
Podcast Description
This is real talk for authors, relatable to where they are in their journey and to our journey as self-published authors. We talk about our experiences and have guest chats with experts and other authors about their experiences.
Podcast Insights
Content Themes
This podcast covers key topics such as balancing writing with life, overcoming self-doubt, managing burnout, and understanding writing identity. Episode examples include discussions on the significance of mindset in writing with Racquel Henry, strategies for maintaining balance in a writer's life, and defining burnout with guest Holly Lyne, focusing on self-care and creative processes.
This is real talk for authors, relatable to where they are in their journey and to our journey as self-published authors. We talk about our experiences and have guest chats with experts and other authors about their experiences.
✨ What happens when you stop chasing numbers—and start chasing joy instead?
In this episode of The Author Next Door, Angela Haas and Cassie Newell sit down with indie author Holly Lyne to reflect on a year of unexpected growth, mindset shifts, and creative breakthroughs.
Holly shares how 2025 became a transformative year in her author journey—one where simplifying goals, reconnecting with creativity, and focusing on genuine reader engagement led to more success than she ever anticipated.
Together, they talk honestly about the realities of indie publishing today: navigating digital marketing, experimenting with platforms like TikTok, managing multiple pen names, and building meaningful connections through newsletters and community.
In this episode they explore:
📌 How mindset shifts can unlock creativity and productivity
📌 Why simplicity often leads to better writing goals
📌 Letting go of metrics and focusing on reader connection
📌 The challenges (and surprises) of marketing in the digital age
📌 Managing pen names with intention and strategy
📌 Using newsletters to build real engagement—not just numbers
📌 Finding inspiration and balance outside of writing (yes, concerts count 🎶)
📌 Why joy in the process can lead to unexpected wins
✨ This episode is a refreshing reminder that success as an indie author isn’t just about views, sales, or algorithms—it’s about sustainability, creativity, and loving the work you’re building.
👇 Question of the week:
What’s one way you’re trying to bring more joy into your writing this year? ✍️✨
Where to find Holly: https://hblyne.com/
https://writerroadmap.com/
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🎙️For More About The Author Nextdoor ➡ https://theauthornextdoor.com/
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🗺️ Other places to find us and connect:
ANGELA HAAS Choose your own adventure 🚀💕 https://ahaaswrites.com/
CASSIE NEWELL Romance 🩷 https://ckdarling.com/
Young Adult 🧚 https://authorcmnewell.com/
ℹ️ Keywords 🔑 indie author, writing goals, mindset, marketing strategies, TikTok, creativity, pen names, engagement, newsletters, writing to market, indie authors, self-publishing
Disclaimer
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