The HYBRID Author

An Almost Merry Christmas Mashup in 2025 With Joanne Zara Ellen Morrell

Joanne — Tue, 09 Sep 2025 04:20:24 +0000

We've hit 199 episodes of The HYBRID Author Podcast! And to celebrate, here's a mashup of all the guests who have appeared since June this year.

Giving Stories Many Lives, Bel Vidal on Writing Bipolar Type 2 into Fiction

Joanne — Tue, 09 Sep 2025 04:19:07 +0000

Bel Vidal is the pen name of an Australian-Bolivian writer based in Sydney. Her fiction, non-fiction and poetry have been published in English and Spanish under her pen name, her real name and other pseudonyms. Soon after arriving in Sydney, she received an Australia Council (now Creative Australia) grant to publish a bilingual collection of poems and stories, Arcoiris de Sueños / 'Rainbow of Dreams'.

An earlier draft of her novel ‘Exuberance’ was short-listed for the Varuna-Harper Collins Award for manuscript development and awarded the Varuna Residential Masterclass. It was independently published in 2023, followed by her story collection 'Tales of Suburban Castaways' in 2024.

Bel holds a BA in Communications, majoring in Creative Writing (UTS), and a Masters in Writing for the Media (Macquarie University). She works in the not-for-profit sector as a communications and media professional, and is also a mental health advocate, book lover, bush walking enthusiast, traveller, blogger and firm believer it is never too late to start something new.

In the 198th episode of The HYBRID Author Podcast host Joanne Zara Ellen Morrell, author of young adult fiction, women's fiction and short non-fiction for authors chats to Bel on:

blending lived experience with fiction
Mental Health month, promoting awareness and reducing stigma, particularly about bipolar type 2 in her novel 'Exuberance'
ways to give a book several “lives” over time
Bel’s advice for authors who want to translate their own mental health journeys into fiction in a way that resonates while still protecting their own wellbeing and much more.

Writing Pulse-Pounding Thrillers With Michael Wendroff

Joanne — Tue, 09 Sep 2025 04:15:38 +0000

Michael Wendroff is a marketing consultant, and now a debut author with his thriller, ‘What Goes Around.’ It was published by Bloomsbury in the Uk, USA, and Australia, and foreign translation rights were sold in Japanese, Hungarian, and Italian. It is available in hardcover, audiobook, and ebook, and the paperback edition launches this month.

In the 197th episode of The HYBRID Author Podcast host Joanne Zara Ellen Morrell, author of young adult fiction, women's fiction and short non-fiction for authors, chats to Michael on:

the inspiration for his debut thriller 'What Goes Around'
technical aspects to keep readers turning the page
surprises, challenges and wins publishing his novel
michael's advice to aspiring authors looking to stand out in a crowded market and much more.

Kindness Begins Within, Annie Kwan on Writing 'The Finch Who Lost Her Wing'

Joanne — Tue, 09 Sep 2025 03:24:13 +0000

Annie Kwan is a lawyer who runs a construction company with her husband.

She is passionate about teaching kids and volunteers at her daughter’s Primary Ethics Program. Annie believes that being kind to others can only start when one is kind to themself first.

The Finch Who Lost her Wing is her first children’s book. She is working on more children’s books and is also writing a novel.

Annie lives in Sydney with her girls, husband and two cats.

In the 196th episode of The HYBRID Author Podcast host Joanne Zara Ellen Morrell, author of young adult fiction, women's fiction and short non-fiction for authors chats to Annie about:

‘The Finch Who Lost Her Wing’ and her belief kindness starts with being kind to ourselves
practicing kindness to onself managing parenting, volunteering, running a business and living life
surprises and challenges of publishing as a debut children's author
writing across different forms and much more.

Searching for Home, Writing Untold Stories with Debut Author Rose Lane

Joanne — Mon, 08 Sep 2025 11:27:00 +0000

Rose Lane’s writing is inspired by the untold stories of people and places. She has travelled to both London and Nepal as a nurse and has written for multiple publications on topics ranging from anti-war activism to music and disability awareness. 'The Last Tibetan Kingdom' is Rose’s first book and was selected for the 2017 Hardcopy Manuscript Development Program at the Australian Writers’ Centre in Canberra.

In the 195th episode of The HYBRID Author Podcast host Joanne Zara Ellen Morrell, author of young adult fiction, women's fiction and short non-fiction for authors chats to Rose about:

her travel memoir ''The Last Tibetan Kingdom' grown out of her travels and nursing work in Nepal
balancing diverse professional and writing experiences, research, voice and cultural sensitivity in the book
being selected for the Australian Writers' Centre hardcopy program
her overall writing advice to authors and much more.

From Idea to Book Bible in Minutes, Visual Story Planning with Cameron Sutter of Plottr

Joanne — Mon, 08 Sep 2025 11:21:25 +0000

Cameron Sutter is a YA sci-fi/fantasy author, software developer and the inventor of Plottr – the popular visual planning software for books and stories of all kinds. An avid reader who is endlessly learning how things work, his life’s mission is to help writers write more powerful stories (and to encourage everyone else to read the classics). He lives in Oklahoma City with his wife, six kids and several furry friends.

In the 194th episode of The HYBRID Author Podcast host Joanne Zara Ellen Morrell, author of young adult fiction, women's fiction and short non-fiction for authors, chats to Cameron on:

practical use of Plottr from initial idea to completed outline
Storysnap an exciting new AI-powered addition to Plottr, creating visual book bibles in minutes and instantly organising author information
how AI tools like Storysnap complement, not replace, an author’s creativity and Cameron's advice to writers about integrating these tools into their process and much more.

'Finding Lady Baltimore’ Family, Resilience and Weaving Narratives with Mila Maxwell

Joanne — Sun, 24 Aug 2025 23:09:33 +0000

Mila Maxwell is an author from Clare, Nova Scotia, Canada, with a deep-rooted passion for storytelling and a love of the outdoors. A proud French Acadian, Mila draws inspiration from both her cultural heritage and her adventurous lifestyle, which includes being a volunteer firefighter. She lives in Sussex, New Brunswick, Canada with her husband Jeremy, son Bennett, and two French Bulldogs. When not writing, you can find Mila out in nature, at the gym, or helping others through her work in the community.

In episode 193 of The HYBRID Author Podcast host Joanne Zara Ellen Morrell, author of young adult fiction, women's fiction and short non-fiction for authors, chats to Canadian author Mila on:

how her love of the outdoors and French Acadian heritage shaped both the setting and the emotional tone of 'Finding Lady Baltimore'
the inspiration and conversations hoped to spark from her novel exploring the complexities of growing up alongside a sibling with disabilities
how Mila's background as a volunteer firefighter and active community member real-life experiences found their way into her characters and storytelling
what Mila's publishing adventure looks like so far, and her advice to writers balancing deeply personal themes with universal resonance and miuch more.

Awards, Substack, Storytelling and a Hybrid Career With Julia Lawrinson

Joanne — Sun, 24 Aug 2025 22:53:53 +0000

Julia Lawrinson has published more than fifteen books for children and young people, from a picture book to books for older teenagers, and in 2024 published a memoir called How to Avoid a Happy Life. Her books have been recognised in the Children’s Book Council Awards, the WA Premier’s Book Awards and the Queensland Literary Awards, and she has presented to schools across Australia, in Singapore and in Bali. She is an enthusiastic adult learner of Indonesian, yoga and the cello. Her favourite place on earth is the dog park.

In episode 192 of The HYBRID Author Podcast host Joanne Zara Ellen Morrell, author of young adult fiction, women's fiction and short non-fiction for authors chats to Julia about:

shortlisting for the 2025 WA Premier's Literary Awards
blogging on Substack and how this process differs from more traditional publishing or social media
how Julia's lengthy hybrid career writing for different audiences and in different forms have challenged and inspired her as a storyteller
Julia's sought after advice for writers navigating their own hybrid careers, balancing traditional recognition, digital platforms, personal creative goals and much more.

https://www.writersdigest.com/my-first-ideas-arent-my-best-and-ai-only-makes-them-worse?utm_medium=email&utm_source=WDG+-+NL+-+Newsletter&oly_enc_id=0273D2156645J6O

Self-Publishing Burnout, How to Stay in the Game Without Losing Your Spark With Joanne Zara Ellen Morrell

Joanne — Wed, 20 Aug 2025 11:14:32 +0000

Burnout. It’s the word no self-published author wants to say out loud, but almost every one of us has felt it. Maybe you’ve been there: staring at your manuscript, feeling resentful instead of inspired. Or pushing out content on social media, but dreading every post. Or just wondering if this author dream is worth the grind.

In episode 191 of The HYBRID Author Podcast host Joanne Zara Ellen Morrell, author of young adult fiction, women's fiction and short non-fiction for authors chats honestly about:

what burnout is
why it’s so common in self-publishing
mindset shifts that might change the game
practical, energy-saving strategies
creative recovery practices and
reframing the writing life.

'There Is Always Love' Writing Through Adversity and Building Purpose-Driven Work with Vanessa Maiorano

Joanne — Sun, 27 Jul 2025 22:41:31 +0000

Vanessa Maiorano is a passionate children’s author, a mum of two, and a fierce advocate for families navigating hard times. After her own experience facing cancer as a young mother, she was inspired to create gentle, supportive books that help children understand the big feelings that come with life’s challenges. Her mission is simple: to remind children that no matter what happens, there is always love.

After years of working in office management, Vanessa started her own Virtual Assistant company. This business began while she was going through cancer. Vanessa needed to keep working to manage medical bills and everyday expenses, so started offering administration and business consulting services remotely. As it grew, she was supporting businesses with revenue growth and operational systems while undergoing treatment, healing from surgery, and raising two small children.

Vanessa now consults for a number of companies and helps stay-at-home mums, some who are going through illness and others who are raising children, find flexible virtual work they can do from home. She says, “It’s something that came from a really difficult season but has turned into a purpose-driven part of my life that I’m proud of.”

In the 190th episode of The HYBRID Author Podcast host Joanne Zara Ellen Morrell, author of young adult fiction, women's fiction and short non-fiction for authors chats to Vanessa on:

her powerful message 'There is Always Love' and the turning pointe to share her story
her publishing and marketing author adventure of 16+ books
from office management to running her own virtual assistant business while undergoing treatment and raising children, how this journey shaped Vanessa's identity, not just as an author, but as a businesswoman and advocate
Vanessa's advice to those trying to create or grow purpose-driven work while navigating tough periods in life and much more.

https://www.writersdigest.com/mindfulness-and-meditation-for-writers-7-easy-ways-to-stay-present-and-boost-creativity?utm_medium=email&utm_source=WDG+-+NL+-+Newsletter&oly_enc_id=3246I9700301H2H

Writing Kids Books Inspired by The Natural World With Kasey Whitelaw

Joanne — Sun, 27 Jul 2025 22:34:43 +0000

Kasey is a marine biologist, educator and children’s author with a passion for connecting children to science and nature through storytelling and education.

Growing up on the coast of Victoria, Kasey spent her days beachcombing, surfing and exploring the rocky shores. As a child (and still as an adult), she was fascinated by the rock pools teeming with life, eagerly learning the names of the all the creatures she discovered.

Her passion for the ocean led her to the World Heritage listed Shark Bay Marine Park in Western Australia, where she had the incredible opportunity to work with the famous Monkey Mia dolphins and loggerhead sea turtles.

Inspired by her work and dedicated to nurturing the next generation of ocean warriors, she’s turned her enthusiasm into pages by diving into the colourful world of picture books.

In the 189th episode of The HYBRID Author Podcast host Joanne Zara Ellen Morrell, author of young adult fiction, women's fiction and short non-fiction for authors, chats to Kasey on:

'A Dolphin’s Wild Journey Home' what sparked the idea for Flute’s story and why it was so important to tell it through the eyes of a dolphin
how Kasey goes about translating the wonder of the natural world into storytelling that resonates with young readers
balancing educating and entertaining when writing children’s books
Kasey's advice on weaving real-world inspiration into meaningful, age-appropriate narratives and much more.

'When Only Today Matters' Writing Truth, Emotion and Short Fiction with Johan du Toit

Joanne — Sun, 27 Jul 2025 22:22:39 +0000

Johan du Toit grew up in a remote community eight hours drive from Cape Town in South Africa. He immigrated to Australia with his family in 1994. Through membership of a writers’ group Johan found an opportunity to write short fiction. His two collections, ‘Meandering Road’ and ‘When Only Today Matters’ have been published in collaboration with Broadcast Books.

The eight stories chosen for ‘When Only Today Matters’ were shaped by Johan’s personal journey. The human truth element came from a place of gratitude or a sense that tomorrow may be a better day. There are stories fuelled by injustice and frustration, others with a whisper of hope.

In the 188th episode of The HYBRID Author Podcast host Joanne Zara Ellen Morrell, author of young adult fiction, women's fiction and short non-fiction for authors, chats to Johan on:

personal experience in his short story collection 'When Only Today Matters' What inspired the title, and how the theme of “living in the moment” resonates across the eight stories
balancing emotional tone across short fiction, writing stories fuelled by injustice and frustration, while others carry a whisper of hope
identity and displacement, shaping the way Johan tells stories or the kinds of stories he feels called to tell
finding your writing voice through a writers’ group
collaborative publishing with Broadcast Books
Johan's advice for emerging authors interested in hybrid or community-based publishing paths and much more.

Young Adult Contemporary Fiction: ‘The Lies We Tell Ourselves’ With Maura Pierlot

Joanne — Sun, 27 Jul 2025 22:04:45 +0000

Maura Pierlot is the author of seven titles for children and young adults and the creator of the award-winning web series on youth mental health, Fragments. Maura holds a PhD in philosophy, specialising in ethics, and is a qualified art therapist and founder of The Book Bench Project. Drawing inspiration from the natural world, Maura divides her time between Canberra and Jamberoo on the NSW south coast, where her family grows walnuts, macadamias and avocados.

In episode 187 of The HYBRID Author Podcast host Joanne Zara Ellen Morrell, author of young adult fiction, women's fiction and short non-fiction for authors chats to Maura on:

the inspiration behind her latest YA novel 'The Lies We Tell Ourselves' tackling some deep and personal themes
balancing writing authentically around tough topics while keeping hope and resilience at the heart of the story
challenges and rewards in crafting stories that resonate with both teens and adults
Maura's advice to other writers navigating the contemporary YA space, particularly those wanting to tackle difficult emotional or social topics in their work and much more.

How to Get Your Indie or Hybrid Book into Bookstores With Joanne Zara Ellen Morrell

Joanne — Mon, 21 Jul 2025 00:56:01 +0000

Episode 186, a lonersode with your host Joanne Zara Ellen Morrell, author of young adult fiction, women's fiction and short non-fiction for authors, chats on:

understanding bookstore priorities
consignment vs wholesale
creating a bookstore-ready sell sheet
follow-up etiquette and building relationships
why local connection matters and much more

Fiction With Purpose, Apartheid, Resilience and Writing for Change With Toby Hammerschlag

Joanne — Sun, 13 Jul 2025 12:24:18 +0000

Toby Hammerschlag grew up in South Africa, immigrating to Australia with her husband and two daughters in 1986.

She was a Special Education teacher for many years, specialising in literacy. While teaching, she would write passages and stories for her students when she couldn’t find an appropriate text for them.

After retiring from teaching, she did an oral history course with the chief oral history librarian at the State Library of NSW. She then interviewed people in order to preserve their family stories. Some of the characters in her recent novel have been inspired by these interviews.

Her first book, ‘The Rooftop’, was published in 2015. It is a story of friendship between four young students from diverse cultural and social backgrounds. The book celebrates freedom and diversity. That book has been widely used in schools.

‘Looking Out and Beyond’ is her second novel. The research and writing of her novel has taken five years.

Toby and her husband live on the upper North Shore of Sydney and is now a grandmother of five.

In the 185th episode of The HYBRID Author podcast host Joanne Zara Ellen Morrell, author of young adult fiction, women's fiction and short non-fiction for authors, chats to Toby about:

her new novel 'Looking Out and Beyond', the story rooted from Toby's childhood experiences growing up in Apartheid South Africa, blending personal memory with historical fact
covering complex themes—racial injustice, World War II and migration being accessible to young adult readers.
how Toby's background as a literacy educator has helped shape this story to align with the Australian school curriculum and still connect emotionally with students
Toby's hopes for this book is to empower young people to stand up against racial discrimination via conversations or classroom discussions for Looking Out and Beyond sparking in schools
Publishing with Woodslane and embracing a hybrid path to authorship, what Toby's author adventure has been like bringing this important story to life
her advice for writers who also want to make a social impact with their work and much more

Behind the Book: Why I Wrote The Writer, The Hairdresser and The Nurse With Joanne Zara Ellen Morrell

Joanne — Sun, 13 Jul 2025 07:56:58 +0000

In the 184th episode of The HYBRID Author Podcast host Joanne Zara Ellen Morrell, author of young adult fiction, women's fiction and short non-fiction for authors, takes you behind the scenes of her latest women’s fiction novel, 'The Writer, The Hairdresser and The Nurse' published under her pen name Zara Ellen. This book is incredibly close to Joanne's heart. In this episode she shares "the why" behind the story, how these characters came to life and what she hopes readers take away from their lives. If you're a writer working on emotionally-charged fiction—or just love a good story about messy, resilient women—this one’s for you.

'Flight', Exploring Passion and Secrets in Wartime Melbourne With Anne Vines

Joanne — Sun, 06 Jul 2025 11:03:22 +0000

Anne Vines is a Melbourne-based fiction writer. Her novel, The Ship Wife was published in 2023. Her short stories have won a slew of awards including the Boroondara Award in 2014 and the Keith Carroll Award in 2020. She was also commended in the Victorian Premier’s Literary Award for an Unpublished Manuscript in 2008, and in the Varuna HarperCollins Award in 2007. She was also short-listed for the Alan Marshall Award, The Age Short Story Award and the international Wasafiri New Writing Prize. Anne has worked on both her novels at Varuna Writers’ Centre.

She completed a Bachelor of Arts at the University of Melbourne in Literature and History, and taught in secondary schools and adult education in Victoria and London, which led her to co-write the VCE English and Literature courses.

Flight is her latest novel.

In the 183rd episode of The HYBRID Author Podcast host Joanne Zara Ellen Morrell, author of young adult fiction, women's fiction and short non-fiction for authors chats to Anne about:

exploring love, war and forbidden desire in her new novel Flight
what draws Anne to this particular period in history and the inspiration behind the story itself
Anne's research for Flight and her surprising discoveries about Melbourne during the war that shaped the narrative
the relationships portrayed in Flight and what readers will take away
Anne's publishing adventure
her burning advice for aspiring authors in the historical fiction genre or in the literature/publishing field and much more.

Rescue Ready, Writing, Training and Preparing Emergency Teams with Jesse McNeilly

Joanne — Sun, 06 Jul 2025 09:04:16 +0000

Jesse McNeilly is the Founder of Rescue Connect and also mentors Industrial Emergency Response departments. Having trained over 20,000 students with his work globally, Jesse is passionate about sharing knowledge so rescue teams can be safer, more capable and better prepared. Jesse holds a Medical Science Masters Degree in Disaster and Emergency Response. He has dedicated his professional life to his vocation of emergency response and rescue. Jesse has worked in eight countries in a range of military, private security, disaster response, training and leadership roles. Jesse continues to develop his industry networks so rescue workers can learn from and help each other.

In the 182nd episode of The HYBRID Author Podcast host Joanne Zara Ellen Morrell, author of young adult fiction, women's fiction and short non-fiction for authors, chats to Jesse about:

the inspiration and personal experience behind his guidebook 101 Rescue Scenarios: Mines Emergency Respond, 2025 edition and why it is so critical for today’s industrial emergency response teams
the interactive elements of the work
AI training and creation of images
Jesse's overall advice to leader’s in their field or authors in general looking to utilise their skillset to give back to their departments and create and publish a guidebook and much more.

https://www.amazon.com.au/dp/1764099400?psc=1&smid=ANEGB3WVEVKZB&ref_=chk_typ_quicklook_seeDetailsToDp

Memoir, Meditation and Overcoming Adversity with Sarah Susak

Joanne — Sat, 21 Jun 2025 06:55:44 +0000

Sarah Susak is a full-time working mum. A commercial lawyer with over two decades of experience, Sarah has led the legal function of some of the world’s most iconic brands, including Coca-Cola and Colgate-Palmolive across the South Pacific and Europe.

She is also a lifetime supporter of the Wayside Chapel for the homeless in Sydney. In 2017, shortly after becoming a mother, Sarah was diagnosed with a rare and deadly head and neck cancer. Her journey through major facial reconstructive surgeries, intensive radiation treatment and ongoing medical challenges led her to discover the ancient practice of Vedic meditation, which became a cornerstone of her recovery and inspired her to train as a Vedic meditation teacher. In 2023 she launched Medi Steady Go®, a business dedicated to sharing the wisdom and techniques that she credits with saving her life.

After being in remission from cancer for almost seven years while completing YOURU in 2024 Sarah was diagnosed with a metastasis to the lung. Though the lesion on her lung was safely removed, she developed a rare autoimmune condition which saw her on life support and hospitalised for almost three months. With the help of holistic health practices and her daily meditation routine, Sarah made a remarkable recovery, defying medical expectations. She is now living a joyful and purpose-filled life in Sydney with her husband and daughter. YOURU is her first book.

In episode 181 of The HYBRID Author Podcast host Joanne Zara Ellen Morrell, author of young adult fiction, women's fiction and short non-fiction for authors chats to Sarah about:

the inspiration behind writing her book 'YOURU – Find the Guru Within You' sharing her extraordinary journey through life-threatening illness, recovery and personal transformation
making writing time inbetween balancing roles as a commercial lawyer, full-time working mum, author and meditation teacher
Vedic meditation and how this practice shaped the way Sarah approaches challenges—not only in her personal health journey but in her career and writing life as well
Sarah's advice for listeners who might be facing personal or creative challenges and much more.

www.sarahsusak.com/my-book

Writing Spooky Stories for Junior Fiction Readers With Jeanette Stampone

Joanne — Sat, 21 Jun 2025 06:43:35 +0000

Jeanette Stampone was born in a spooky three-hundred-year-old house in the English countryside. She grew up with stories of local legends, pixies, ghosts, and fairies. These childhood experiences inspire Jeanette to write fun, imaginative and quirky stories. A country girl at heart, Jeanette now lives in regional Western Australia with her husband and two boys.

In 2022, Jeanette’s debut picture book, 'Shadow and the Girl' was released by Red Paper Kite. Her second book, 'The Dragon Guest Handbook' was published by Wombat Books in 2024.

This year, Jeanette was thrilled to release her new junior fiction book 'Terry Fide and the Bakery Ghost', published by About Kids Books.

Jeanette is an active member of the Society of Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators (SCBWI) and is passionate about sharing and creating books for kids of all ages.

In episode 180 of The HYBRID Author Podcast host Joanne Zara Ellen Morrell, author of young adult fiction, women's fiction and short non-fiction for authors, chats to Jeanette about:

the inspiration for her new junior fiction book Terry Fide and the Bakery Ghost
balancing creating a sense of mystery and fun without making the story too scary or dark for young audiences
paranormal themes and what Jeanette hopes readers will take away from Terry Fide and the Bakery Ghost, especially about fear, courage and imagination
from character development to pacing, what storytelling techniques Jeanette found most effective when crafting ghostly adventures that keep kids hooked from start to finish
her advice to aspiring junior fiction authors and much more.

Science Fantasy, Kickstarter and 'Son of Osivirius': Bringing Big Stories to Life with Cathryn deVries

Joanne — Sat, 21 Jun 2025 06:43:06 +0000

Cathryn deVries is an award-winning fantasy and sci-fi author who explores themes of restorative justice, empowerment, connection with earth and spirit and finding the true self in her work—all wrapped up in an epic package of immersive world-building and sweet romance. A former Air Force engineer and recovering perfectionist, she now home-schools her children, two of whom are on the autism spectrum. She and her family live in the Gold Coast Hinterland of Australia, where she enjoys living in a rainforest and pretending she’s an elf.

In episode 179 of The HYBRID Author Podcast host Joanne Zara Ellen Morrell, author of young adult fiction, women's fiction and short non-fiction for authors, chats to Cathryn about:

her new science fantasy novella Son of Osivirius
launching through Kickstarter with exclusive content before its retail release in 2026
balancing science fiction and fantasy genres and what can readers expect in terms of themes or big emotional stakes
Cathryn's hybrid publishing adventure navigating the traditional and self-publishing routes
her advice for authors considering Kickstarter or other direct-to-reader models and much more

https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/eclectaperennial/son-of-osivirius

Hybrid Writing Craft: Blending Genres, Forms and Creative Opportunities With Joanne Morrell

Joanne — Wed, 11 Jun 2025 01:17:11 +0000

In episode 178 of The HYBRID Author Podcast host Joanne Zara Ellen Morrell explores the art of hybrid writing craft—blending genres, forms and creative disciplines to elevate your storytelling and expand your publishing opportunities. Discover how combining fiction with nonfiction, prose with poetry, or novels with screenplays can unlock new creative potential and help future-proof your writing career. Whether you’re traditionally published, indie or somewhere in between, this episode will inspire you to experiment, diversify and embrace the full range of your writing skills.

Resurrecting the Past: Writing Gothic Fiction for Modern Readers With Dmetri Kakmi

Joanne — Mon, 09 Jun 2025 02:49:08 +0000

Dmetri Kakmi was born to Greek parents in Turkey. He is the author of The Dictionary of a Gadfly (under the pseudonym of The Sozzled Scribbler), The Door and Other Uncanny Tales, Mother Land and When We Were Young (as editor). Mother Land was shortlisted for the New South Wales Premier’s Literary Awards in 2008, and is published in England and Turkey. His short story ‘The Boy by the Gate’ was first published in England in The New Gothic and reprinted in Australia in The Year’s Best Fantasy and Horror 2013.

‘Haunting Matilda’ was published in the horror anthology Cthulhu: Deep Down Under and shortlisted for Best Fantasy Novella in the Aurealis Awards, 2015. His essays and short stories appear in various Australian and overseas anthologies.

Dmetri has more than 30 years’ experience in various aspects of publishing, including editing, lecturing, teaching and mentoring. For 15 years, he worked as a senior editor at Penguin Books. As well, he was secretary and fiction/non-fiction co-editor of the online literary journal Kalliope X.

Dmetri’s monthly column ‘101 Horror Movie Nights’ appears in the US based Drunken Odyssey literary website.

Dmetri Kakmi is a highly respected writer in the literary and speculative fiction fields.

His forthcoming gothic novel, 'The Woman in the Well' has been described by one editor as ‘an astonishing mix of literary horror and folklore.’Dmetri is currently working on the psychological crime novel 'The Perfect Room'. He lives in Melbourne.

In the 177th episode of The HYBRID Author Podcast host Joanne Zara Ellen Morrell, author of young adult fiction, women's fiction and short non-fiction for authors chats to Dmetri about:

the allure and exploration of the gothic novel genre
atmosphere in gothic fiction—how Dmetri uses setting, mood and sensory detail to create the haunting, immersive world of 'The Woman in the Well'
the publishing industry today and Dmetri's time working as a senior editor for traditional publishing house Penguin Books
Dmetri's overall advice for authors looking to write gothic fiction and have a career as an author or in publishing
101 Horror movies and much more.

Finding Your Voice: Blending Culture, Community and Heart in Contemporary Fiction With Alejandra Martinez

Joanne — Sat, 07 Jun 2025 02:15:22 +0000

Alejandra Martinez is an Australian-Uruguayan writer based in the Blue Mountains of NSW. She migrated to Australia at the age of seven with her family, as a military dictatorship was about to take over the country. Her stories have been published in a range of anthologies and magazines, including Best Australian Stories (BlackInc.), Girls Talk and Puentes Review. She has also written short plays, one of which was performed at the Riverside Theatre in Parramatta. An extract from her debut novel. Salsa in the Suburbs was the winner of the 2022 Newcastle Writers Festival Fresh Ink Emerging Writer Prize.

In the 176th episode of The HYBRID Author Podcast host Joanne Zara Ellen Morrell, author of young adult fiction, women's fiction and short-nonfiction for authors, chats to Alejandra about:

her inspiration to write suburban setting/Latinx culture 'Salsa in the Suburbs' and what it means for her personally
approaching writing about cultural identity in a way that feels authentic and accessible, especially for readers who may not share the same background
central themes of family, food and community in 'Salsa in the Suburbs' and these elements drive Alejandra's characters’ and shape the heart of her story
Alejandra's advice to writers who want to tell stories rooted in their own culture or heritage while also reaching a broad audience and much more.

Bringing Epic Poetry Back and 'The Amazons’ With Peter Gunn

Joanne — Tue, 27 May 2025 04:22:24 +0000

Peter Gunn is a U.S. Air Force vet, avid bodybuilder, coffee connoisseur and poet who strives to bring epic poetry back from the past. Peter reinvents this narrative style in his masterpiece The Amazons.

In the 175th episode of The HYBRID Author Podcast host Joanne Zara Ellen Morrell, author of young adult fiction, women's fiction and short non-fiction for authors chats to Peter about:

epic poetry, defined
what modern readers can gain from reconnecting with this ancient form
creative challenges working in such a historic style
discoveries of epic storytelling that excited him the most during the writing of 'The Amazons'
Peter's advice for aspiring writers looking to write epic poetry and much more.

2025 Mid-year Mashup with Joanne Zara Ellen Morrell

Joanne — Fri, 23 May 2025 03:32:41 +0000

Can you believe we are mid-way through 2025! Where does the time go. But as always, we'll celebrate with a mashup of the fabulous guests we've had on The HYBRID Author Podcast since January!

Episode 151 Overcoming the Shadows: John Walker Pattison on Triumph, Vulnerability and Inspiring Through Memoir
Episode 152 Million-copy Bestselling Author Jacqueline Harvey on Creating a Thriving Career in Children’s Fiction and Navigating a Changing Publishing Landscape
Episode 153 Relentless Pursuit: Junior Bernard on Overcoming Adversity and Turning Survival into Inspiration
Episode 154 Dana Da Silva on Writing Erotica
Episode 155 Living with Split: Maggie Walters on the Journey of Multiple Personality Disorder and the Power of Storytelling
Episode 156 A.M Jaxon on Balancing Romance and Suspense and The Love Connection Series: Saoirse’s Story
Episode 157 Suzi Samuel Revising a Bestseller and The Dark at the Threshold
Episode 158 Uncovering Truths in Young Adult Fiction: Karen Cunningham on Writing and Self-Publishing ‘Missing Sarah Harris’
Episode 159 Shane Simonsen on Self-Publishing Books vs. Blogging on Substack
Episode 160 How Poetry Serves as a Form of Healing and Self-discovery with Jessie Vong
Episode 161 Stephen Whiteside on ‘Writing Narrative Non-fiction Australian History ‘Snow, Fire and Gold’
Episode 162 Deborah Pike on ‘What to do after your first novel is published’
Episdeo 163 The Power of Podcasts to Connect People Through Compelling Storytelling and Meaningful Conversations With Devin Blair
Episdoe 164 Reigning in Regency: DG Rampton on Crafting Timeless Romance and Thriving as a Hybrid Author
Episode 165 Sandi Parsons on ‘Self-Publishing Children’s Fiction Overseas’
Episode 166 Tackling Tough Topics: Christopher Cheng on Addressing Big Themes in Children’s Literature with Sensitivity
Episode 167 Joanne Merrick on ‘empowering readers to make informed decisions’
Episode 169 Writing Good Mystery Books for Kids and Outback Noir with Rosie Schnoell
Episode 171 Embarking on Adventures: Yarn Quest and the Magic of Children’s Fantasy with Brooke Scobie
Episdoe 172 Retirement Money Secrets with Steven Selengut
Episode 173 How to Elevate Your Life and Business to a Higher Level with Rich Kozak

How to Elevate Your Life and Business to a Higher Level with Rich Kozak

Joanne — Fri, 23 May 2025 03:17:52 +0000

Rich Kozak is The Voice of Impact Driven Branding. After decades languaging and launching brands, he founded RichBrands specifically to serve heart-centered entrepreneurs and professionals.

At RichBrands, Rich guides individuals in elevating their unique gifts so their Brand makes higher level impacts, and in creating, writing and publishing books to move their brand forward. The wisdom he shares is:CLARITY for the IMPACTS You Will Make and STEPS for “The Brand YOU Will Become.”

In the 173rd episode of The HYBRID Author podcast host Joanne Zara Ellen Morrell, author of young adult fiction, women's fiction and short non-fiction for authors, chats to Rich about:

what it means to elevate a brand—and how that translates into elevating your life and business
what role does clarity play in making a brand not only authentic but impactful
how someone can begin identifying their gifts—and what’s the shift that happens when they build a brand around them with intention
key mindset shifts or branding principles authors can adopt right now to begin operating at a higher level of impact, purpose and much more.

https://authorspublish.com/30-magazines-publishing-hybrid-writing/

Retirement Money Secrets with Steven Selengut

Joanne — Fri, 23 May 2025 03:09:39 +0000

Steve Selengut is the #1 Amazon bestselling author of ‘Retirement Money Secrets’ (2023). He is an income independence coach with over 40 years of experience in the financial industry.

As a retired private investment portfolio manager, Steve managed over 300 different portfolios at a time before selling his business in 2023 with over $110 million under management. He has introduced several proprietary concepts, including the QDI + PT, Smart Cash, The Investor's Creed, and Base Income. Further, he developed the Investment Grade Value Stock (IGVSI) identification system.

Today, Steve coaches individuals and other professionals in creating retirement income independence for both themselves and their clients.

In the 172nd episode of The HYBRID Author Podcast host Joanne Zara Ellen Morrell, author of young adult fiction, women's fiction and short non-fiction for authors chats to Steven about:

his book Retirement Money Secrets and how it differs from traditional retirement planning guides
common misconceptions people hold about retirement planning, and how Steve's book aims to correct or clarify those misunderstandings
the role authorship has played in building his authority and reach within the financial education world
Steve's writing, publishing adventure and advice for authors and much more.

Embarking on Adventures: Yarn Quest and the Magic of Children's Fantasy with Brooke Scobie

Joanne — Sun, 18 May 2025 09:02:35 +0000

Brooke Scobie is a queer, auDHD, First Nations mum, author and poet that lives on Darkinyung land. Ever since she was very little, Brooke has loved books and stories. Which, of course, makes sense since they grew up with a mum whose favourite thing was her overflowing bookcase and reading before bed.

Brooke is most passionate about creating stories and worlds where weird, wonderful kids and adults of all shapes and sizes can see themselves in magical places, on extraordinary adventures! She hopes that one day every child who reads her stories will know they can be a storyteller too.

In the 171st episode of The HYBRID Author Podcast host Joanne Zara Ellen Morrell, author of young adult fiction, women's fiction and short non-fiction for authors chats to Brooke about:

the inspiration to create her 'Yarn Quest' series and how she used her your own experiences to shape the story and its characters
her process for developing the unique elements of the 'Yarn Quest' universe, and how it captivates young readers while remaining relatable
balancing the need for engaging storytelling with important life lessons or themes and the messages she hopes young readers will take away from 'Yarn Quest'
marketing, social media for authors and much more.

HYBRID Social Media Strategies With Joanne Zara Ellen Morrell

Joanne — Mon, 12 May 2025 07:43:31 +0000

We've hit 170 episodes of The HYBRID Author Podcast, and to celebrate, join host and author of young adult fiction, women's fiction and short non-fiction for authors Joanne Zara Ellen Morrell chatting HYBRID social media strategies via:

content stratregy (organic growth)
paid promotion (boosting reach)
community and collaboration
email and off-platform engagement and much more.

Writing Good Mystery Books for Kids and Outback Noir with Rosie Schnoell

Joanne — Mon, 12 May 2025 07:41:36 +0000

Rosie Schonell is the author of her debut novel: Middle Grade Mystery, ‘Breaking School Rules is Easy … The hardest part is not getting caught.’

She has a Bachelor of Arts and a Master of Special Education and has taught English at all levels in schools and specialised in teaching students with learning difficulties. Rosie also volunteers at schools and organisations that teach reading, including teaching newly arrived adult migrants.

Rosie lives with her husband and has three adult children she’s raised to love books as much as she does. She spends her time between Balmain and the Northern Beaches of Sydney, loves a game of Pickleball, outrigging on Pittwater, and volunteers as a crisis supporter at LIFELINE.

In the 169th episode of The HYBRID Author Podcast, host Joanne Zara Ellen Morrell, author of young adult fiction, women's fiction and short non-fiction for authors chats to Rosie about:

her debut middle grade mystery
developing these characters and what Rosie hopes young readers will take away from their personalities
balancing creating a compelling mystery with ensuring it's age-appropriate for younger readers
Outback noir and what draws Rosie to this setting, and how it shapes the tone and themes of her story
Rosie's advice to aspiring children’s authors or debut authors or just authors in general looking to write in the mystery genre and much more.

https://careerauthors.com/do-you-have-what-it-takes-to-make-it-in-publishing/

4 Years of The HYBRID Author Podcast and Turning 40! With Joanne Zara Ellen Morrell

Joanne — Mon, 12 May 2025 07:31:11 +0000

The HYBRID Author podcast is 4! And your host turns 40 today!

Join Joanne Zara Ellen Morrell for Episode 168 chatting all things hybrid, including why the podcast started and how it's changed over the years, lessons learned, personal and professional growth, what the next 4 years of the podcast looks like, tuning 40, fears hopes, dreams and much more.

www.hybridauthor.com.au

Joanne Merrick on ‘empowering readers to make informed decisions’

Joanne — Tue, 06 May 2025 22:20:43 +0000

Joanne Merrick offers over 25 years of global experience in helping individuals and organisations thrive. She has delivered transformative leadership programs across five continents and 22 countries, combining her expertise in neuroscience with a passion for building management and leadership capabilities.

As founder of The Leadership Recipe, LLC, Joanne designs impactful programs that enhance communication, emotional intelligence, and team performance. Her global perspective - shaped by living in Australia, Hong Kong, and now the USA - draws on her leadership roles at major organisations like Deloitte, Amazon, and Juniper Networks. This diverse background fuels her fresh, practical approach to leadership development.

In her debut book, ‘Game On! Is Management Your Best Career Play?,’ Joanne empowers readers to make an informed decision about stepping into a management role.

In the 167th episode of The HYBRID Author Podcast host Joanne Zara Ellen Morrell, author of young adult fiction, women's ficton and short non-fiction for authors, chats to Joanne about:

what drove her to write her book 'Game On! Is Management Your Best Career Play' and why this conversation is so important right now
key questions/tools introduced in the book to help people make more informed decisions about their career direction
How 'Game On!' helps shift the pressure narrative to move into management and put the power back into the individual’s hands
consulting through The Leadership Receipe and how Joanne sees books like hers playing a role in bridging the gap between career ambition and leadership readiness and
Joanne's advice to authors and professionals looking to write their book based on their experiences to tie in with all they do.

https://www.theleadershiprecipe.com/

Tackling Tough Topics: Christopher Cheng on Addressing Big Themes in Children's Literature with Sensitivity

Joanne — Tue, 06 May 2025 22:20:05 +0000

Christopher Cheng dwells in an inner-city Sydney terrace and writes fiction and non-fiction for children full time. He taught in city and outback schools for a number of years and at Taronga Zoo. He is Co-Chair of the International Advisory Board for the Society of Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators (SCBWI) and has a Master of Arts in Children’s Literature. He presents to people of all ages at schools and festivals worldwide. His many picture books include 'Bear and Rat,' lovingly written for his amazing wife Binni, and illustrated by Stephen Michael King. 'OneTree,' illustrated by Bruce Whatley, shortlisted in the 2020 NSW Premier's Literary Awards, and is a CBCA Notable Book.

In the 166th episode of The HYBRID Author Podcast host Joanne Zara Ellen Morrell, author of young adult fiction, women's fiction and short nonfiction for authors, chats to Christopher about:

his inspiration to address hard topics and how to approach presenting them in a way that's gentle and age-appropriate for young readers
balancing complex themes with accessible storytelling, Christopher shares his creative process for developing narratives that resonate emotionally with children while ensuring they feel safe and understood
feedback received from parents and educators regarding treatment of big themes, and how that has influenced his writing and or future projects
Christopher's tips and advice to writers looking to write for children and much more.

https://www.chrischeng.com/

Sandi Parsons on ‘Self-Publishing Children’s Fiction Overseas’

Joanne — Thu, 01 May 2025 02:48:07 +0000

Sandi Parsons lives and breathes stories, as a reader, writer and storyteller. Sandi's creative nonfiction has been published in MiNDFOOD, Frankie, Chicken Soup and the Growing Up Disabled in Australia anthology.

She currently lives in Western Australia with her favourite husband, some problem puppies and many teetering stacks of books.

In the 165th episode of The HYBRID Author Podcast host Joanne Zara Ellen Morrell, author of young adult fiction, women's fiction and short non-fiction for authors, chats to Sandi about her:

latest children’s fiction book, Salty
self-publishing author adventure: what motivated Sandi to take this route, and how her experiences differed when navigating printing options overseas compared to publishing locally
unique challenges making print books and having them shipped from China
Sandi’s advice for aspiring children's authors looking to self-publish internationally, creating the best product and much more.

https://www.sandiparsons.com/#/

Reigning in Regency: DG Rampton on Crafting Timeless Romance and Thriving as a Hybrid Author

Joanne — Wed, 23 Apr 2025 08:01:37 +0000

Bestselling author DG Rampton loves to create feelgood romantic comedy, featuring intelligent heroines, dashing men and sparkling banter. An engineer by training but a romantic by nature, she left her corporate career to follow the call of her artistic inclinations and write stories that bring joy and laughter into people's lives.

DG Rampton lives in Sydney with her Mr Darcy, their cheeky teenager and emotionally needy fur-baby, and is currently working on a new historical romantic comedy series.

In the 164th episode of The HYBRID Author Podcast host Joanne Zara Ellen Morrell, author of young adult fiction, women's fiction and short non-fiction for authors, chats to DG Rampton on:

balancing historical accuracy with imaginative freedom to create compelling love stories that resonate with modern readers
the regency romance niche
hybrid authorship, effective strategies in growing and maintaining readership such as BookBub
the challenges of marketing and self-promotion in such a competitive space across Amazon and Facebook
DG Rampton’s advice for aspiring romance authors, particularly those looking to break into historical subgenres like Regency and much more.

https://dgrampton.com/home

The Power of Podcasts to Connect People Through Compelling Storytelling and Meaningful Conversations With Devin Blair

Joanne — Wed, 16 Apr 2025 05:10:13 +0000

Devin Blair is a graduate in Chemical Engineering Technology and a proud member of the National Society of Leadership and Success. After a few life-changing experiences, he made the leap into the entertainment world. The journey wasn’t linear, but through trial and error, he found his way into podcasting—and that’s how Chemical Rocketeers was born. Today, Devin travels across cities and countries, pushing boundaries in the sci-fi audio space and working to leave a lasting mark through immersive, story-driven content.

In the 163rd episode of The HYBRID Author Podcast host Joanne Zara Ellen Morrell, author of young adult fiction, women's fiction and short non-fiction for authors chats to Devin about:

why podcasts are such a powerful medium for connection
storytelling techniques used to weave compelling narratives and create immersive and meaningful experiences on Chemical Rocketeers
standout podcast moments on Devin’s podcast that led to an unexpected or lasting connection
his advice for authors and creatives looking to leverage podcasting as a storytelling tool on crafting engaging content that resonates with an audience and much more.

https://open.spotify.com/show/2rBYK06wyjw8EMsm5IMkc3

Deborah Pike on ‘What to do after your first novel is published’

Joanne — Fri, 11 Apr 2025 02:09:24 +0000

Deborah Pike is a writer and academic based in Sydney. She grew up in Northam and Perth, Western Australia. She has an Honours degree in English from the University of Western Australia, and a PhD from the University of Sydney. She is an associate professor of English Literature at the University of Notre Dame, Sydney, and is a winner of an Australian Government Award for University Teaching. Deborah has travelled widely and lived in Paris for several years, where she held positions at Shakespeare & Company Bookstore, the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development, the University of Paris seven and the Paris Institute of Political Studies. She is the author of 'The Subversive Art of Zelda Fitzgerald,' which was shortlisted for the AUHE award in literary criticism. 'The Players,' published by Fremantle Press, is her first novel.

In the 162nd episode of The HYBRID Author Podcast host Joanne Zara Ellen Morrell, author of young adult fiction, women's fiction and short non-fiction for authors chats to Deborah about:

her literary contemporary fiction work ‘the Players’
key steps authors can take to keep momentum going once their first novel is published
strategies Deborah’s found most effective growing her readership after launching her debut book
struggling with the ‘what’s next’ feeling after publication
how authors can balance marketing their first book while working on their next project and much more.

https://www.deborahpike.com/

Stephen Whiteside on Writing Narrative Non-fiction Australian History ‘Snow, Fire and Gold’

Joanne — Tue, 08 Apr 2025 11:36:03 +0000

Stephen Whiteside has been walking and skiing through the Australian mountains for most of his life. He has also been writing for many years - mostly rhyming verse, but also short stories, and articles about Australia's history and natural environment. Many of his poems have been published in magazines or anthologies, both in Australia and overseas, or won awards.

In 2014, Walker Books published a collection of his poetry for children, "The Billy that Died with its Boots On and other Australian Verse." In 2015, the book won a Golden Gumleaf for "Book of the Year" at the Australian Bush Laureate Awards during the Tamworth Country Music Festival. In 2016 he judged the Secondary School Section of the Dorothea Mackellar Poetry Awards. Last year he self-published his first novella, 'Snow, Fire and Gold - the story of Bill Spargo and Evelyn Piper's life in the Australian mountains.' This year he is publishing another novella, 'Pearl Bradshaw - Princess of Hotham.' Whiteside works as a GP in Melbourne.

In the 161st episode of The HYBRID Author Podcast host Joanne Zara Ellen Morrell, author of young adult fiction, women's fiction and short non-fiction for authors chats to Stephen about:

the inspiration to explore particular time periods and story in Stephen’s work Australian History Snow, Fire and Gold
what research methods he undertook to bring authenticity to his novella while keeping the narrative engaging
challenges in balancing historical fact with storytelling
Stephen’s advice to writers looking to craft compelling historical narratives while staying true to the past and much more.

https://snowfireandgold.com.au/

How Poetry Serves as a Form of Healing and Self-discovery with Jessie Vong

Joanne — Wed, 02 Apr 2025 04:23:34 +0000

Jessie Vong is an emerging artist and poet, currently pursuing Art Therapy studies at the College of Complementary Medicine in NSW, Australia, a journey she began in October 2024. With a passion for creativity and mental health advocacy, Jessie's work bridges the worlds of art and healing, inspired by her deep belief that art is 'food for the soul'.

Her poetry journey began when art therapy lecturers recognised her talent and encouraged her to publish a book combining insightful verses with her personable hand-drawn illustrations. This creative endevour reflects her dedication to expressing abstract thoughts and emotions, encouraging readers to reflect, grow and discover new perspectives.

In the 160th episode of The HYBRID Author Podcast host Joanne Zara Ellen Morrell, author of young adult fiction, women's fiction and short non-fiction for authors, chats to Jessie about:

exploring deeply personal themes in her work The Secret Poems — what first drew her to poetry as a form of self-expression and healing
poetry as a powerful tool for self-discovery
poems helping others on their own healing journeys
Jessie's advice to individuals looking to use poetry as a form of self-reflection and emotional release and much more.

https://feelheartscounselling.com/

Shane Simonsen on Self-Publishing Books vs. Blogging on Substack

Joanne — Wed, 26 Mar 2025 02:19:54 +0000

Shane is a biochemist turned teacher turned experimental farmer who decided to add author to the list. He writes weekly non-fiction essays about his passion for transformative agriculture on Substack (at Zero Input Agriculture) and released a short non-fiction book, “Taming the Apocalypse” on the enormous potential for novel domestications.

Under the pen-name Haldane B. Doyle he has also released the world's first and only hard science fiction novel based purely on biological technology, called Our Vitreous Womb. He loved appearing on other people’s podcasts so much that he started two of his own- the Zero Input Agriculture podcast (launching any day now) and Sci Fi Hi Five (analysing and highlighting the best books in the fourth Self Published Science Fiction Competition).

In the 159th episode of The HYBRID Author Podcast host Joanne Zara Ellen Morrell, author of young adult fiction, women's fiction and short non-fiction for authors, chats to Shane on:

what the biggest contrasts Shane’s found between self-publishing and substack, particularly when it comes to building a readership and maintaining engagement
the differences between self-publishing and Substack and how they impact creative process and the way one might structure writing projects
Shane's advice to authors on what factors they should weigh in terms of long-term financial sustainability and audience growth
how writers can strategically use both platforms to create a well-rounded and sustainable hybrid author model and much more.

https://zeroinputagriculture.substack.com/

https://www.amazon.com.au/Kindle-Store-Shane-Simonsen/s?rh=n%3A2490359051%2Cp_27%3AShane%2BSimonsen

Uncovering Truths in Young Adult Fiction: Karen Cunningham on Writing and Self-Publishing 'Missing Sarah Harris'

Joanne — Tue, 18 Mar 2025 13:11:16 +0000

Karen Cunningham is a graphic designer by day, and a closet writer at all other times. An overthinker from way back, she always has a story in her head and is known to become quite panicky when she doesn’t have at least a small stack of books waiting to be read.

Karen is the author and illustrator of Jenny Spaghetti (writing as KarenMargaret), a 2001 independently-published picture book. She was awarded a mentorship from the Australian Society of Authors for her YA manuscript, Missing Sarah Harris, which was independently published in 2024 and is now available in WA book stores and libraries Australia-wide.

Karen is a member of the Society of Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators and Writing WA. She has a manuscript in progress for YA readers which won the inaugural Buzz Words Page Turner Writing Competition, along with more picture book texts, and plenty of other stories to keep her awake at night.

In the 158th episode of The HYBRID Author Podcast host Joanne Zara Ellen Morrell, author of young adult fiction, women's fiction and short non-fiction for authors chats to Karen about:

tackling themes that resonate deeply with young adult readers, such as identity and belonging.
the inspiration behind ’Missing Sarah Harris’
Karen’s self-publishing author adventure
her advice to aspiring young adult authors and much more.

https://www.karenmcunningham.com.au/

https://authorspublish.com/lessons-from-my-most-prolific-year-of-writing-and-getting-published/

Suzi Samuel Revising a Bestseller and 'The Dark at the Threshold'

Joanne — Thu, 13 Mar 2025 11:04:17 +0000

Suzi Samuel is the author of The Unintentional Medium and the soon to be published An Unintentional Journey. The Dark at The Threshold is her first foray into fiction and draws largely on her knowledge of France and her own personal experience of the spirit world.

Born in England, Suzi spent a large part of her life in Wimbledon where she worked as a French tutor and translator. After the death of her beloved Grandmother, her first husband and an old clairvoyant lady, Mrs Butterfield, she started to get very bizarre but accurate messages from the other side and thus commenced her pyschic work which spans almost forty years.

In 1997 she married her Australian husband David and they later moved to Sydney where she still practices her work as a medium and clairvoyant.

In the 157th episode of The HYBRID Author Podcast host Joanne Zara Ellen Morrell, author of young adult fiction, women's fiction and short non-fiction for authors chats to Suzi on

the challenges and triumphs of releasing a revised edition of a bestseller
her captivating new book The Dark at the Threshold, and how Suzi's own experiences guided her fiction
Suzi's advice to writers looking to revise their published works and write in the supernatural thriller genres and much more.

A.M Jaxon on Balancing Romance and Suspense and The Love Connection Series: Saoirse's Story

Joanne — Tue, 11 Mar 2025 00:54:08 +0000

A.M. Jaxon is a romantic suspense writer who grew from tropical Queensland small town wild child to become a pharmacist in Brisbane before attaining a PhD in Business from the University of Western Australia.

Her passion for women’s hockey led her to coaching internationally in Barcelona, Rotterdam and the UK, and also on Australia’s Gold Coast and Perth.

In 2014, Allison decided to leave her pharmacy career, and has written six novels since. She lives with her husband and wily Westie Terrier in Perth, Western Australia.

In the 156th episode of The HYBRID Author Podcast host Joanne Zara Ellen Morrell, author of young adult fiction, women's fiction and short non fiction for authors chats to A.M Jaxon (Allison) on

the romance suspense genre
balancing high stakes action and deep emotional connection
techniques used to maintain a fast-paced, gripping narrative
writing a trilogy
pacing to keep readers engaged and much more.

https://www.amjaxon.com/

Living with Split: Maggie Walters on the Journey of Multiple Personality Disorder and the Power of Storytelling

Joanne — Wed, 05 Mar 2025 12:08:10 +0000

Maggie Walters lives in the Northern Rivers of NSW, where she spends her days developing her writing skills and raising three teenagers. After meeting her husband, she immigrated to Australia from the US, and spent the bulk of her career in various marketing roles before returning to her long-held love of the written word.

Expression through words has become a driving passion in Maggie's life, a tool for healing her own abusive past. Maggie is an active member of Byron Writers Festival and a member of several writing groups that meet regularly and continue to nurture her craft. As a trauma survivor, she shares her courageous commitment to wholeness, while confronting stereotypes surrounding Multiple Personality Disorder also known as Dissociative Identity Disorder. She educates and encourages others to break down the barriers and stigma around mental health.

In the 155th episode of The HYBRID Author Podcast host Joanne Zara Ellen Morrell, author of young adult fiction, women's fiction and short non fiction for authors, chats to Maggie about:

what motivated Maggie to write 'Split' and share her story: a very intimate look at living with Multiple Personality Disorder (MPD)
how she approached writing about such a personal and complex experience
balancing being open about her struggles and crafting a narrative that would also educate readers about the realities of this condition
feedback she's received from readers who may be dealing with similar experiences and how sharing her story has impacted her own healing journey and much more.

https://www.maggie-walters.com/

Dana Da Silva on Writing Erotica

Joanne — Mon, 03 Mar 2025 08:50:43 +0000

Dana Da Silva is a single mum of two based in Sydney, Australia. Having completed her journalism degree in 2011, she’s spent the past decade working in PR across both the public and private sectors. These days, Dana’s a part-time media adviser, and, on her days off from the corporate world, an aspiring indie author with big dreams. Creative writing, including poetry, is her elixir of joy. She considers putting pen to paper to be an exquisite art, free therapy, and a form of meditation. The Shift is her debut book.

In the 154th episode of The HYBRID Author Podcast host Joanne Zara Ellen Morrell, author of young adult fiction, women's fiction and short non-fiction for authors chats to Dana about:

her brave, powerful and raw memoir ‘The Shift’
coping with writing erotic and intense love affairs in the book
her tips for authors lookiing to write erotic scenes and much more.

https://www.amazon.com.au/stores/author/B0CVFQBJD8

https://www.writersdigest.com/be-inspired/self-care-for-writers-balancing-productivity-with-mental-well-being?utm_medium=email&utm_source=WDG+-+NL+-+Newsletter&oly_enc_id=0273D2156645J6O

Relentless Pursuit: Junior Bernard on Overcoming Adversity and Turning Survival into Inspiration

Joanne — Sat, 15 Feb 2025 23:02:15 +0000

Junior was born and raised in Haiti and moved to the United States in 2010 following the devastating earthquake that claimed the lives of over 100,000 people. He earned his degree from Alvernia University in December 2014 on a full scholarship.

His commitment to making a difference has earned him the prestigious Alvernia University’s Four Under Forty Achievement Award, a testament to his philanthropic leadership and the impact he is igniting to boost economic growth in Haiti and inspire individuals from diverse backgrounds.

In the 153rd episode of The HYBRID Author podcast host Joanne Morrell, author of young adult fiction, women's fiction and short non-fiction for authors chats to Junior about:

what kept him moving forward in the face of such overwhelming challenges, and how writing his book helped him reflect on that persistence
how he approached the task of weaving these incredible events into a cohesive narrative that would both inspire and engage readers on a personal level
his advice for aspiring writers who are facing their own struggles and doubts
the importance of persistence not just in life, but in writing and publishing a book
how his story is resonating with readers today and what message he hopes readers will take away from his experiences, particularly when it comes to chasing their own dreams.

https://juniorpersist.com/

Million-copy Bestselling Author Jacqueline Harvey on Creating a Thriving Career in Children's Fiction and Navigating a Changing Publishing Landscape

Joanne — Sun, 19 Jan 2025 01:39:22 +0000

Jacqueline Harvey worked in schools for many years but has had a passion for storytelling since she was a child. She is the author of the popular 'Alice-Miranda, Clementine Rose, Kensy and Max and Willa and Woof' series, which have sold almost two million copies in Australia alone. Jacqueline has also released picture books such as 'That Cat, Gloria the Great and Kevin the Sheep', illustrated by one of her former students, Kate Isobel Scott. Jacqueline lives between Sydney, Australia, and Queenstown, New Zealand, and is currently working on several picture book projects and an exciting new middle-grade story.

In the 152nd episode of The HYBRID Author Podcast host Joanne (Zara Ellen) Morrell, author of young adult fiction, women's fiction and short-nonfiction for authors chats to Jacqueline about:

creating characters and stories that resonate so deeply with young audiences
setting books apart in such a competitive market
generative A.I
key elements children's authors should focus on building a sustainable career
how important balancing creativity with understanding market trends is
advantages and challenges of working with a tradtional publisher as opposed to exploring hybrid or self-publishing routes, especially for children's literature and much more.

https://jacquelineharvey.com.au/

Overcoming the Shadows: John Walker Pattison on Triumph, Vulnerability and Inspiring Through Memoir

Joanne — Sat, 11 Jan 2025 23:55:58 +0000

John Walker Pattison, a cancer survivor and award-winning author, calls himself a dreamer. After a tumultuous early life, he defied doctors' expectations by surviving cancer and later pursued a successful nursing career. His memoir, Me and My Shadow – memoirs of a cancer survivor, has won multiple awards. Despite facing new health battles, John continues to write, travel, and enjoy the peace of fly-fishing and photography, all while cherishing family as his greatest treasure.

In the 151st episode of The HYBRID Author podcast host Joanne Zara Ellen Morrell, author of young adult fiction, women's fiction and short non fiction for authors, chats to John about:

his writing career in particular 'Me and My Shadow' a deeply personal and emotional journey of his battle with cancer
the inspiration to write this memoir, and how the writing process helped John reflect on and process his experiences
balancing being open and honest about stuggles while crafting narrative
John's advice to authors looking to write and share personal hardships in a way that both heals and inspires and much more.

https://johnwpattison.co.uk/

Lessons Learned in 2024 and How to Thrive in 2025 With Joanne Zara Ellen Morrell

Joanne — Sun, 05 Jan 2025 11:03:07 +0000

It's the first episode of a brand new year, and we've hit 150!

To celebrate, host Joanne Zara Ellen Morrell, author of young adult fiction, women's fiction and short non fiction for authors, shares her trials and triumphs from lessons learned in 2024, her personal journey and how to thrive in 2025.

https://faculty.vt.edu/faculty-development/mentoring-and-support/faculty-writing/articles-for-faculty-writers/a-fresh-take-on-the-pomodoro-technique.html

Government-Surveillance Technology a Reality in Science Fiction Trilogy With Michael C. Bland

Joanne — Sun, 29 Dec 2024 13:50:07 +0000

Michael C. Bland is an accomplished author and editor and Secretary and founding member of Bookpod, an invitation-only, online support group of award-winning writers, filmmakers, journalists, and bestselling authors.

Michael has received numerous awards for the first two books of his futuristic trilogy, The Price of Safety (an Amazon Top 10 bestseller that reached #7 for Dystopian Fiction) and The Price of Rebellion. The series follows a father as he tries to protect his family from the high-surveillance society he helped create.

His trilogy explores the potential—and likely—future of an increasingly overbearing and controlling government. The theme and narrative—along with Michael’s exciting writing style—have captivated science fiction lovers across the globe.

In the 149th episode of The HYBRID Author Podcast host Joanne Zara Ellen Morrell, author of young adult fiction, women's fiction and short non-fiction for authors chats to Michael about:

the government-surveillance technology featured in Michael’s trilogy becoming a reality
government surveillance technology definitions and impacts in the author worlds
Michael’s advice to authors around current and future technology and applying it to author business and much more.

https://www.mcbland.com/

Merry Christmas Mashup of All Guests Since July 2024

Joanne — Thu, 26 Dec 2024 12:14:14 +0000

Merry Christmas! And to celebrate episode 148, here's a mashup of 2024 guests of The HYBRID Author Podcast since July, including:

EPISODE 133 - Generative AI for Authors With Fiction Author Amina Al Sherif
EPISODE 135 - The Importance of Finding a Writing Community With Children’s Author Laura Holloway
EPISODE 137 - Children’s Author and Illustrator Kylie Howarth on New Geographic Areas in a Graphic Novel Format and Winning the Western Australian Premier’s Book Awards Writer’s Fellowship
EPISODE – 138 CEO of Writing WA Will Yeoman on ‘Writing as a Career’
EPISODE 139 - Becoming an Internationally Accomplished Author of 8 Books with Lisa Heidke (Darcy)
EPISODE 140 - Writing Laugh-out-loud Books for Kids with Best-selling Children’s Author Tim Harris
EPISODE 141 - Multi-award Winning Author John Larkin on Chasing The Writerly Dream
EPISODE 142 Practicing Reinvention Through New Characters and Novels With Novelist, Essayist and Reviewer Jeanne M Blasberg
EPISODE 143 - Mystery Author Andrea Barton on Plot Development: Plot Twists, Suspense and Tension for a More Spontaneous Writing Style
EPISODE 144 - Crossing Oceans: Layla Moon on Book Signings in America and Connecting with Dark Romance Readers
EPISODE 145 - Spooky Stories, Publishing Paths and Crafting Middle-Grade Thrills as a Hybrid Author With Fionna Cosgrove
EPISODE 146 - Ari Rosenschien on Reusing Skills From a Music Career in Publishing and Republishing a Book From Traditional to Self-Published
EPISODE 147 - Creative Storytelling as an Experience With Lee Lehner

Creative Storytelling as an Experience With Lee Lehner

Joanne — Sat, 30 Nov 2024 23:36:49 +0000

Lee Lehner is the author of fantasy series Anithia. Lee’s storytelling draws attention to estoric worlds, female mythology, her love of the plant kingdom, finished off with a sprinkle of magic. Today Lee is a well regarded self-published author in the writing and publishing community.

Episode 147 of The HYBRID Author Podcast host Joanne Zara Ellen Morrell, author of young adult fiction, women's fiction and short non-fiction for authors, chats to Lee about:

her series ‘Anithia’, and how she's created an experience with these books through creative storytelling
Lee's tips for authors looking to provide their readers with an experience extending beyond their book and much more.

https://leelehner.com/

Ari Rosenschien on 'Reusing Skills From a Music Career in Publishing and Republishing a Book From Traditional to Self-Published'

Joanne — Fri, 15 Nov 2024 13:08:54 +0000

Ari Rosenschien is a Seattle-based author. Books and records were a source of childhood solace, leading Ari to a teaching career and decades of writing, recording, and performing music. Along the way, he earned a Grammy shortlist spot, landed film and TV placements, and co-wrote the 2006 John Lennon Songwriting Contest Song of the Year.

Ari holds an MFA in Creative Writing from Antioch Los Angeles, and his work appears in Short Beasts, Drunk Monkeys, Noisey, Observer, PopMatters, The Big Takeover, KEXP, and elsewhere. He is Global Editorial Content Manager for Roland, helming the legendary musical instrument company's article platforms. Ari lives with his wife and dogs and enjoys the woods, rain, and coffee of his region.

In the 146th episode of The HYBRID Author Podcast host Joanne Zara Ellen Morrell, author of young adult fiction, women's fiction and short non-fiction for authors chats to Ari about:

his music career and how he has utilised the skills from one industry and applied them to his publishing endeavours
republishing his tradtional book to self-publishing
Ari's tips for authors self-publishing and looking to utilise skills they already possess and much more.

Spooky Stories, Publishing Paths and Crafting Middle-Grade Thrills as a Hybrid Author With Fionna Cosgrove

Joanne — Fri, 01 Nov 2024 06:52:55 +0000

Born and bred in Perth, Western Australia, Fionna was raised on a far too paranormal diet of X-files, Are you Afraid of the Dark, Fact or Fiction and a plethora of other completely age-inappropriate TV shows. This has led to not only a peculiar open mind, but also a taste for the delightfully mysterious and macarb.

After studying marine science and working for several years within the commercial fishing industry, Fionna finally decided to test run those voices that had taken up space in her head for far too long.

When Fionna is not sitting in front of the computer screen trudging through painstaking first drafts, hanging out with her two kids, an oversized pooch and one amusingly logical husband. You can usually find her listening to podcasts, baking cakes, following that black line in the pool, or with her head in an array of books.

In the 145th episode of The HYBRID Author Podcast host Joanne Zara Ellen Morrell, author of young adult fiction, women's fiction and short non-fiction for authors, chats to Fionna about:

her inspiration to write spooky stories for young readers
how she strikes the right balance between fun and fright
being a hybrid author navigating both traditional and self-publishing avenues
advantages and challenges of being a hybrid author in today’s publishing landscape
how she incorporates elements of suspense and mystery in her storytelling while ensuring themes remain age-appropriate and relatable
Fionna's advise for aspiring authors in the middle grade genre interested in hybrid pubishing and much more.

https://www.fionnacosgrovewriter.com/

https://hybridauthor.com.au/books/

Crossing Oceans: Layla Moon on Book Signings in America and Connecting with Dark Romance Readers

Joanne — Fri, 25 Oct 2024 04:26:56 +0000

TRIGGER WARNING: EPISODE CONTAINS SOME BAD LANGUAGE AND TALK ON TABOO SUBJECTS SUCH AS SEX, INCEST and MURDER.

Layla Moon is an International Bestselling Indie Author. She resides in the Swan Valley, Western Australia with her morally grey husband and children.

Layla's writing style is nothing short of dark and naughty. Where the darkness is always thrilling, the men are forever stupidly sexy (for what other reason than uhh hello, why not) the women are absolute weapons and the spice is always spicing.

In the 144th episode of The HYBRID Author Podcast host Joanne Zara Ellen Morrell, author of young adult fiction, women's fiction and short non-fiction for authors, chats to Layla about:

how the American atmosphere and readerships differ from Australia
challenges and triumphs travelling internationally for book signings
preparations made before and after the trip
Layla’s advice for authors looking to attend overseas book signing events
her taboo work and much more.

https://www.laylamoonauthor.com/

Mystery Author Andrea Barton on Plot Development: Plot Twists, Suspense and Tension for a More Spontaneous Writing Style

Joanne — Fri, 11 Oct 2024 01:23:58 +0000

Andrea Barton is the author of 'The Godfather of Dance, A Jade Riley Mystery'. She also runs Brightside Story Studio, a book editing business for fiction and memoir, where she loves helping authors to make their stories shine.

In the 143rd episode of The HYBRID Author podcast host Joanne (Zara Ellen) Morrell, author of young adult fiction, women's fiction and short non fiction for authors chats to Andrea about:

plot development: plot twists, suspense and tension for a more spontaneous writing style
Andrea’s writing process for her book ‘The Godfather of Dance’
Andrea's advice in developing a solid plot for works of fiction and much more.

https://andreabartonauthor.com/

https://sistersincrime.org.au/

Practicing Reinvention Through New Characters and Novels With Novelist, Essayist and Reviewer Jeanne M Blasberg

Joanne — Fri, 20 Sep 2024 02:04:18 +0000

Jeanne M Blasberg is a novelist, essayist and reviewer. Her upcoming novel, Daughter of a Promise is a modern retelling of the legend of David and Bathsheba, completing the thematic trilogy she began with Eden and The Nine. Jeanne brings strong female characters to the forefront and beautifully details her main character's self-discovery journey through a letter to her unborn son...a journey that includes the corporate world, feminism, love and loss during a time that changed the world as we know it.

In the 142nd episode of The HYBRID Author Podcast host Joanne (Zara Ellen) Morrell, author of young adult fiction, women's fiction and short non-fiction for authors, chats to Jeanne about:

practicing reinvention through new characters and novels
how Jeanne defines this in her own works of fiction
tips for authors looking to apply practicing reinvention in their new works and by creating new characters
mixing emotional story and plot driven aspects and much more.

https://jeanneblasberg.com/

Multi-award Winning Author John Larkin on Chasing The Writerly Dream

Joanne — Wed, 11 Sep 2024 22:27:48 +0000

Multi-award winning author John Larkin is one of Australia's most prolific authors and his new book ‘Brittany & Co Take on Paris’ is one of the funniest books you'll read this year! John's award winning books ‘The Shadow Girl’ and ‘The Pause’ were celebrated as top notch Australian literature and this one is no different.

In the 141st episode of The HYBRID Author Podcast host Joanne (Zara Ellen) Morrell, author of young adult fiction, women's fiction and short non-fiction for authors chats to John about:

his career in fiction for children and adults
imposter syndrome, insecurities
influencers on Instagram and staying relevant
being human as an author
John's top tips after penning over 30 books for adults and kids
technology versus nature and the novel

https://www.penguin.com.au/authors/john-larkin

Writing Laugh-out-loud Books for Kids with Best-selling Children's Author Tim Harris

Joanne — Thu, 29 Aug 2024 03:12:14 +0000

Tim Harris is the bestselling author of several laugh-out-loud series for kids, including the 'Ratbags' series, 'Toffle Towers', 'Mr Bambuckle’s Remarkables' and 'Exploding Endings'. Tim fills his stories with quirky scenarios, loveable characters and plenty of imagination. Tim’s ‘humour with heart’ writing style has seen his books receive multiple awards, including five KOALA Honour Books and a CBCA Notable. His books have been published in Australia and the USA and have been translated into numerous languages.

In the 140th episode of The HYBRID Author podcast host Joanne (Zara Ellen) Morrell, author of young adult fiction, women's fiction and short non fiction for authors, chats to Tim about:

his outstanding career in the children’s genre
what qualities make for laugh-out-loud books
tips for authors looking to make kids laugh-out-loud and much more.

https://www.timharrisbooks.com/

https://events.humanitix.com/book-launch-the-writer-the-hairdresser-and-the-nurse

Becoming an Internationally Accomplished Author of 8 Books with Lisa Heidke (Darcy)

Joanne — Fri, 23 Aug 2024 11:08:36 +0000

Lisa Darcy is a contemporary women's fiction writer. Her eighth book The Pact has just been released by American publisher: Wings ePress. Lisa was picked up by Allen & Unwin in 2007 and has five books published under the name Lisa Heidke.

She has since had her first book published with UK publisher Bloodhound and several others relaunched in different languages under new titles, a new brand and her newest name - Lisa Darcy.

In the 139th episode of The HYBRID Author Podcast host Joanne Zara Ellen Morrell, author of children's and young adult fiction, women's fiction and short non fiction for authors, chats to Lisa about:

why books with women and issues such as family dynamics, relationships and career do so well
writer's guilt
Lisa’s advice to authors just starting out and much more.

https://www.instagram.com/lisadarcyauthor/?hl=en

https://events.humanitix.com/book-launch-the-writer-the-hairdresser-and-the-nurse

CEO of Writing WA Will Yeoman on 'Writing as a Career'

Joanne — Thu, 08 Aug 2024 08:13:52 +0000

Will Yeoman is CEO of Writing WA, Western Australia's peak body for the writing sector. Prior to taking up this position, Will was a journalist at The West Australian, where for nearly 20 years he was variously literary editor, senior arts writer and a travel writer. He still freelances for the same publication, as well as for Limelight and Gramophone magazines. Will is also a festival director, and has been artistic director of Perth Festival Writers Week, York Festival, York Regional Writers Weekend and New Norcia Writers Festival.

In the 138th episode of The HYBRID Author Podcast host Joanne Morrell, author of young adult fiction, women's fiction and short non fiction for authors chats to Will about:

his lengthy writing career and the advice he gives himself going back to the very beginning
Generative A.I tools and how to use them effectively and ethically
Will's overall advice for writers looking to have a writing career and much more.

https://www.writingwa.org/event/book-launch-the-writer-the-hairdresser-and-the-nurse/

https://medium.com/kickstarter/failure-wont-sink-me-3cb5a3282cb4

Children's Author and Illustrator Kylie Howarth on New Geographic Areas in a Graphic Novel Format and Winning the Western Australian Premier’s Book Awards Writer’s Fellowship

Joanne — Thu, 01 Aug 2024 02:10:56 +0000

Kylie Howarth is an award-winning, internationally published children’s book author-illustrator from Western Australia.

She recently won the Western Australian Premier’s Book Award - Writer’s Fellowship, the WAYRBA Hoffman award and KOALA Honour award. She has been shortlisted for the SCBWI Australian Picture Book Illustrators Award, CBCA Book of the year awards, WAYRBA and the YABBA awards. Her hilarious new graphic novel series for early readers is out now.

In the 137th episode of The HYBRID Author podcast host Joanne Morrell, author of young adult fiction, women's fiction and short non-fiction for authors, chats to Kylie about:

her latest graphic novel for kids ‘Kev and Trev’
tips for authors and illustrators looking to adapt work into graphic novel format
what winning the ‘Western Australian Premier’s Book Awards Writer’s Fellowship’ means for Kylie's work and much more.

https://www.kyliehowarth.com/books

Tips on Writing Emotionally Charged, Fast-paced, Contemporary, Women’s Fiction With Joanne (Zara Ellen) Morrell

Joanne — Sat, 27 Jul 2024 10:51:27 +0000

Compared to her emotionally charged, fast-paced women’s fiction novels, Zara Ellen (pseudonym of Joanne Morrell) lives a quiet life, among the trees, with her loves. She can be found rugged up reading on her balcony or rolling across her laddered library, getting lost in story.

In the 136th episode of The HYBRID Podcast host Joanne (Zara Ellen) Morrell, author of young adult fiction, women's fiction and short non-fiction for authors, touches upon:

character development
pacing and plot
emotional depth
writing style
themes and messages
revision and feedback in relation to her soon to be launched contemporary, women’s fiction book The Writer, The Hairdresser and The Nurse written under Joanne's pseudonym Zara Ellen.

https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/1366101145/the-writer-the-hairdresser-and-the-nurse?ref=discovery

www.hybridauthor.com.au/podcast/

The Importance of Finding a Writing Community With Children's Author Laura Holloway

Joanne — Fri, 19 Jul 2024 04:00:16 +0000

Laura Holloway is a children’s author and teacher. She writes stories that inspire children to play, explore and imagine. Laura’s debut picture book 'Peek A Boo Lottie' has been published by Five Mile Press and is out now.

In the 135th episode of The HYBRID Author Podcast host Joanne Morrell, author of women's contemporary fiction, young adult fiction and short non-fiction for authors, chats to Laura about:

the benefits of finding and being a part of writing communities
when writers should consider joining groups within the writing community
Laura's tips for authors looking to find their tribe
her picture book and more.

https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/1366101145/the-writer-the-hairdresser-and-the-nurse?ref=discovery

Kickstarter Campaigns for Authors With Joanne (Zara Ellen) Morrell

Joanne — Sat, 06 Jul 2024 12:47:37 +0000

Kickstarter is a platform helping bring creative projects to life. In the 134th episode of The HYBRID Author Podcast host Joanne Morrell, author of young adult fiction, women's contemporary fiction and short non-fiction for authors, chats on:

what Kickstarter is
current Kickstarter campaigns
why authors are using this site
her campaign and author fears before launching it, and much more!

Back Joanne's Kickstarter project here! https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/1366101145/the-writer-the-hairdresser-and-the-nurse?ref=user_menu

Generative AI for Authors With Fiction Author Amina Al Sherif

Joanne — Thu, 27 Jun 2024 02:43:17 +0000

Amina Al Sherif is the author of the Nadiri fiction series. Originally from Cairo Egypt, she immigrated to the United States in 2010 as a first generation Arab-American and African American. Amina is a member of the LGBTQ+ community as well as a BIPOC writer.

Amina has worked with the Joint Special Operations Command (JSOCK) for over ten years as a United States Army officer. She has deployed to Baghdad, Iraq, Northern Syria, Turkey, Israel, as well as Afghanistan supporting the Special Operations Community.

Amina regularly blogs on Medium documenting her self-taught technical career, and maintains a literary blog on her website. In January 2020, she published her first book An Approach to Machine Learning in Cyber Defense for the Department of Defense.

In the 133rd episode of The HYBRID Author Podcast host Joanne Morrell, author of young adult fiction, women's fiction and short non fiction for authors, chats to Amina about:

what a Generative AI Engineer is
the benefits and threats author’s face now and in the future via using or not using Generative AI
Amina’s tips for authors looking to implement Generative AI within their business, assets and author identities
Amina’s fiction series and so much more.

https://aminaalsherif.camp/

A Mid-year Mashup of all the Rest of the Guests From the Beginning of 2024

Joanne — Thu, 20 Jun 2024 23:13:04 +0000

We've hit 132 episodes of The HYBRID Author Podcast! And to celebrate, here's a mashup of the rest of the guests who have appeared on the podcast since March:

Episode 120 Built-in Book Marketing with Non-Fiction Author Anna Featherstone

Episode 121 Twenty Years of Publishing and Book Consultancy in New York City With Malka Margolies

Episode 122 Actionable Strategies and Tips for Authors Marketing and Selling Books with Smart Author Media Book Marketing Expert Chris Benetti

Episode 123 Using Your Experiences to Connect With Your Audience With Children’s Author and Autistic/ADHDer Psychologist Chelsea Luker

Epispde 124 How a Book Succeeds in Making the Reader ‘The Fourth Character’ via Immersive Writing in Travel Memoir

Episode 125 Navigating Life’s Complexities and Applying Them in Writing with Non-Fiction Author Liz Long

Episode 126 Just Write For Kids Picture Book ‘Our Australian HeART’ With Front Cover Illustrator and Picture Book Author and Artist Rachael Robertson

Episode 127 Setting up as a Micropublisher Through Print on Demand (POD) With Author and Screenwriter Les Zig

Episode 129 TikTok Tips for Authors with Fantasy Author Renee Hayes

Episode 130 ‘Right Way Down Collating a Work of Children’s Poetry for Traditional Publication With Rebecca Newman and Sally Murphy

Episode 131 What to do and Not to do Hybrid Publishing With Non-Fiction Christian Author Noah Asher

https://buymeacoffee.com/thehybridauthor

What to do and Not to do Hybrid Publishing With Non-Fiction Christian Author Noah Asher

Joanne — Fri, 14 Jun 2024 08:22:01 +0000

Noah Asher is an award winnning author of non-fiction Christian book Chaos: Overcoming The Overwhelming. An important book, carrying a big message and purpose where every book sold, a copy will be donated to a prison library or rehab centre across America.

In the 131st episode of The HYBRID Author Podcast host Joanne Morrell, author of women's fiction under pseaudonym Zara Ellen and short non fiction for authors, chats to Noah about:

his experiences publishing through a one-stop-shop hybrid publisher
dos and don'ts hybrid publishing tips
how to incorporate a big message via your book and use it in your marketing strategy to sell books
Noah's book and much more.

This episode is brought to you by Atmosphere Press, a hybrid publisher helping authors publish books their readers will love.

https://www.thenoahasher.com/

‘Right Way Down Collating a Work of Children’s Poetry for Traditional Publication’ With Rebecca Newman and Sally Murphy

Joanne — Fri, 07 Jun 2024 09:21:30 +0000

Rebecca Newman is a children’s poet and flash fiction author. Her poetry has been published in The School Magazine (NSW Department of Education), a children’s poetry anthology (Bloomsbury, UK) and exhibited at Paper Bird Books and Art in Fremantle, Western Australia. Her flash fiction for adults has been shortlisted in competitions, and published in anthologies (Night Parrot Press) in Western Australia.

Sally Murphy, an Australian author of over 50 children's books. She writes fiction, poetry and nonfiction for children, and articles, educational materials and resources for adults. Sally gives motivational speechs and writing workshops for all ages and conference presentations about literacy, reading and more.

In the 130th episode of The HYBRID Author Podcast host Joanne Morrell, author of children's and young adult fiction, women's fiction and short non fiction for authors, chats to Rebecca and Sally about:

the complete Anthology process from start to finished product
best and trying moments
their tips for authors looking to write poems for a collection or undertake collating a full work such as this and much more.

http://sallymurphy.com.au/

https://www.rebeccanewman.net.au/

TikTok Tips for Authors with Fantasy Author Renee Hayes

Joanne — Sat, 01 Jun 2024 03:23:40 +0000

Born in tropical Far North Queensland, Renee Hayes author of fantasy books The girl who broke the world and the girl who freed the darkness, is a true dream architect, who crafts captivating tales that transport readers to realms where the extraordinary becomes reality.

After working as a dental assistant for six years, Renee’s life has turned on to a path where she can now pour her dreams into her stories.

In the 129th episode of The HYBRID Author Podcast host Joanne Morrell, author of children's and young adult fiction, women's fiction and short non fiction for authors, chats to Renee about:

finding the positive and productivity during major life events
her experiences building a platform on TikTok
whether TikTok sells books
Renee's overall tips for authors looking to use TikTok
her fantasy books, publishing adventure and much more.

https://www.tiktok.com/@reneehayesauthor

An Almost Mid-year Mashup of Some of The Guests in 2024

Joanne — Fri, 24 May 2024 09:24:09 +0000

To celebrate episode 128, here is an almost mid-year mashup of some of the first guests of The HYBRID Author Podcast in 2024, such as:

Episode 108 Atmosphere Press, Taking Charge of Your Destiny as a Creator, Ignore the Haters or Lower Your Standards? With Dr Nick Courtright

Episode 109 Making Money with Emotion With Award Winning Author of Speculative and Contemporary Fiction Zena Shapter

Episode 110 Mel Torrefranca on What Motivates Young Authors to Write

Episode 111 Will You or Won’t You AI? With Joanne Morrell

Episode 112 The Seven Figure Marketing Mindset for Novelists With Jody J Sperling

Episode 113 Writing Graphic Novels for Kids With Joel McKerrow

Episode 114 The Author Launchpad Helping Authors of Non-fiction Earn an Income From Their Books with Chris Trammell

Episode 115 How to Chair a Panel With Children’s Author and Award-winning Short Story Writer Nadia L King

Episode 116 Publishing to a Professional Standard with Publisher and Editor Bernadette Foley

Episdoe 117 Balancing Energy and Focus to Write a Full Manuscript While Raising a Family With Children’s Author Calum Greenall

Episode 118 Creative Freedom, The Ability to Create Without Barriers, The Fear of Judgment or Any Preconceived Ideas About The Creative Process and Artistic “Rules” With Joanne Morrell

Episode 119 Collaging a Hybrid Memoir Through Unearthing Stories Within Your Family with Award Winning Author and Playwright Zack Rogow

This episode is brought to you by Atmosphere Press, a hybrid publisher helping authors publish books their readers will love.

www.hybridauthor.com.au

Setting up as a Micropublisher Through Print on Demand (POD) With Author and Screenwriter Les Zig

Joanne — Thu, 16 May 2024 23:44:47 +0000

Les Zig has worked in publishing for the last fifteen years, specialising in structural editing and self-publishing.

He is the author of This (MidnightSun Publishing 2023), Prudence (ECG Press 2023), August Falling (Pantera Press 2018), Just Another Week in Suburbia (Pantera Press 2017), and Pride (Busybird Publishing 2017). His stories focus on characters facing adversity trying to find their place in the world.

He’s had four screenplays optioned, and unproduced screenplays place and shortlist in over one hundred competitions. His stories and articles have been published in various print and digital journals. He has also run workshops on writing, editing, and publishing.

In the 127th episode of The HYBRID Author Podcast host Joanne Morrell, author of children's and young adult fiction, women's fiction and short non-fiction for authors chats to Les about:

the definition of POD
what's involved in setting up as a Micropublisher and what skills do authors need to possess to execute this effectively
stylistic elements of a project
Kickstarter campaigns
Les's tips for authors looking to manage their books and micropublishing business for longevity
rejection
why we write and much more.

https://www.leszig.com/

Just Write For Kids Picture Book 'Our Australian HeART' With Front Cover Illustrator and Picture Book Author and Artist Rachael Robertson

Joanne — Thu, 09 May 2024 00:39:39 +0000

Rachael Robertson is an author, illustrator and educator. She is passionate about engaging children in art and literature in a fun and interactive way.

In the 126th episode of The HYBRID Author Podcast host Joanne Morrell, author of children's and young adult fiction, women's fiction and short non-fiction for authors chats to Rachael about:

the Australian Anthology raising money and literacy awareness for kids
mass author and illustrator collaboration
trials and triumphs of working processes
Rachael's tips for creatives looking to illustrate or author picture books
creating whilst parenting young children and a new born
Rachael's books and much more.

https://rachaelrobertsoncreates.com.au/about-me

https://www.justkidslit.com/our-australian-heart/

Navigating Life’s Complexities and Applying Them in Writing with Non-Fiction Author Liz Long

Joanne — Thu, 02 May 2024 03:34:56 +0000

Always believing her brain lacked the essential organisation for success, a formal diagnosis at age 58 for Liz Long challenged this belief, offering a new vantage point where being different was not a flaw but an elevated perspective, becoming the cornerstone of her evolving self-understanding.

Now, at the forefront of mental health advocacy, Liz shares her journey and inspires others to confront their own storms, discover resilience within and find their way to Freedomville.

In the 125th episode of The HYBRID Author Podcast host Joanne Morrell, author of children's and young adult fiction, women's fiction and short non-fiction for authors chats to Liz about:

how she got a formal ADHD diagnosis later in life
her childhood trauma which lead to a mental health breakdown
writing as catharsis
Liz's book, and tips for authors looking to share their ideas and experiences to help others.

https://lizlongwrites.com/

https://buymeacoffee.com/thehybridauthor

How a Book Succeeds in Making the Reader ‘The Fourth Character’ via Immersive Writing in Travel Memoir

Joanne — Fri, 26 Apr 2024 02:28:16 +0000

Jessica Muddit is the founder of Hembury Books. Her second book Once Around the Sun has just released which is all about her adventures and mishaps backpacking solo in Asia. Jessica is passionate about getting lesser told stories out into the world by bypassing the traditional gatekeepers via her disruptive business model as a hybrid publisher.

In the 124th episode of The HYBRID Author Podcast host Joanne Morrell author of children's and young adult fiction, women's fiction and short non-fiction for authors, chats to Jessica about:

immersive writing in travel memoir
her books, hybrid publishing endeavours
tips and tricks for authors looking to publish this way and
Jessica's advice to authors looking to write travel memoir.

https://hemburybooks.com.au/

Using Your Experiences to Connect With Your Audience With Children's Author and Autistic/ADHDer Psychologist Chelsea Luker

Joanne — Thu, 18 Apr 2024 04:19:40 +0000

Chelsea Luker is an Autistic/ADHDer psychologist, and is the proud owner of Connect Us Psychology. With a deep-rooted commitment to the Autistic/ADHD community, Chelsea dedicates her professional life to supporting Autistic/ADHD individuals across the lifespan.

Chelsea is also a parent to two young neurodivergent children. Drawing from her lived and clinical experience, Chelsea wrote her middle grade title with seven short stories, “Square Me, Round World” to provide a deep dive into the lives and minds of Autistic and ADHDer individuals, with the hope that this would contribute to the journey toward an inclusive world where every glittering part of every individual is celebrated and embraced.

In the 123rd episode of The HYBRID Author Podcast host Joanne Morrell, author of children's and young adult fiction, women's fiction and short non fiction for authors, chats to Chelsea about:

using your experiences to connect with your audience
articulating your experiences into a book to help others
Chelsea’s writing and publishing advice, her book and much more.

https://buymeacoffee.com/thehybridauthor/c/9198999

https://www.justkidslit.com/chelsea-luker-introduces-us-to-square-me-round-world/

https://connectuspsychology.com/

Actionable Strategies and Tips for Authors Marketing and Selling Books with Smart Author Media Book Marketing Expert Chris Benetti

Joanne — Mon, 08 Apr 2024 08:02:08 +0000

Chris Benetti owns Smart Author® Media and is an expert in book marketing.

To date, he has helped his clients collectively generate over $20,000,000 in sales from their books and digital offers, and in 2023, Chris sold over 19,000 books for his clients.

Chris’ mission is to make marketing and selling books easy to understand for business owners by educating them on fundamental marketing strategies with a no BS approach.

In the 122nd episode of The HYBRID Author Podcast host Joanne Morrell, author of children's and young adult fiction, women's fiction and short non fiction for authors, chats to Chris about:

ways authors wrongly market and sell their books
identifying the target market for your book
converting readers into clients
actionable strategies authors can take to market and sell their books
AI tools creating book marketing assets
business book collboration and much more.

https://chrisbenetti.com/

Twenty Years of Publishing and Book Consultancy in New York City With Malka Margolies

Joanne — Thu, 04 Apr 2024 10:02:08 +0000

With over twenty years' experience within the publishing industry, Malka Margolies is a Book Consultant, Senior Public Relations and Communications Executive and Nonfiction Judaica Books Expert based out of New York city.

In the 121st episode of The HYBRID Author Podcast host Joanne Morrell, author of children's and young adult fiction, women's fiction and short non fiction for authors chats to Malka about:

how the book and publishing industry in New York has differed over the year's in Malka's experience
book publicity via print media
book sales and social media
publisher resources for writers
getting published in America living outside
what Agents are looking for in the United States
podcast analytics and more.

This episode is proudly sponsored by Thorn Creative: where beautiful books are brought to life through cleverly designed author websites to drive traffic and sales for your book.

https://www.linkedin.com/in/malkamargolies/

https://www.publishersmarketplace.com/

http://poetsandwriters.org/

Twitter hastag MSWL

Built-in Book Marketing with Nonfiction Author Anna Featherstone

Joanne — Wed, 27 Mar 2024 08:08:24 +0000

Anna Featherstone is an author whisperer, empowering writers at various stages of their writing, publishing, and book marketing journey. She is the non-fiction advisor to the Alliance of Independent Authors (ALLi) and founder of Bold Authors, a collaborative course hub where authors share knowledge and nous.

The author of five books, her title Look-It’s Your Book!: Write, Publish and Promote Your Non-Fiction Book is on the Australian Society of Authors’ recommended reading list. Anna’s also a judge of the Australian Business Book Awards and is into bees, beings and the big issues of our time.

In the 120th episode of The HYBRID Author Podcast host Joanne Morrell, author of children's and young adult fiction, women's fiction and short non fiction for authors, chats to Anna about:

positivity in the traditional and independent publishing worlds in 2024
books and authors creating positive change
Kickstarter campaigns and Facebook Groups
Anna's books and built-in book marketing tips and much more.

https://annafeatherstone.com/

https://www.boldauthors.com/courses

https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/annafeatherstone/built-in-book-marketing-ideas-for-authors?ref=discovery

https://www.facebook.com/groups/429764288910415

https://www.yancheplavender.com.au/

Collaging a Hybrid Memoir Through Unearthing Stories Within Your Family with Award Winning Author and Playwright Zack Rogow

Joanne — Fri, 22 Mar 2024 05:03:51 +0000

Zack Rogow is an award winning author, editor or translator of more than 20 books and works for theatre. His play has been performed world wide and his blog ‘Advice for Writers’ features more than 275 posts. Zack’s upcoming memoir 'Hugging my Father's Ghost' will be released in 2024.

In the 119th episode of The HYBRID Author Podcast host Joanne Morrell, author of children's and young adult fiction and short non fiction for authors, chats to Zack about:

hybrid memoir and unearthing stories within your family
rejection
author advice and much more.

https://www.zackrogow.com/

This episode is brought to you by Atmosphere Press, a hybrid publisher helping authors publish books their readers will love.

Creative Freedom, the Ability to Create Without Barriers, the Fear of Judgment or any Preconceived Ideas About the Creative Process and Artistic "Rules" with Joanne Morrell

Joanne — Fri, 15 Mar 2024 09:31:54 +0000

In the 118th episode of The HYBRID Author Podcast host Joanne Morrell, author of children's and young adult fiction, women's fiction and short non fiction for authors chats about Creative Freedom and how we can apply it to our writing, our publishing endeavours and making an income from our books.

Up to listen now folks (links in the bio) and as always please leave me a wee review if you found the episode useful.

www.hybridauthorpodcast.com.au/podcast/

#creativefreedom #thehybridauthorpodcast #joannemorrell #createwithoutbarriers #createwithoufears #createwithoutjudgement #books #publishing #writing #authors

https://www.buymeacoffee.com/thehybridauthor?l=es

Balancing Energy and Focus to Write a Full Manuscript While Raising a Family With Children's Author Calum Greenall

Joanne — Fri, 08 Mar 2024 01:03:48 +0000

Calum Greenall is a mental health nurse and self-published author. His award-winning debut picture-book, Sam's Stormy Night is the first in a four-part series, with the second, Barry's Broken Dam out now. Along with other self-publishing projects, Calum is also in the process of trying to secure a traditionally published contract.

In the 117th episode of The HYBRID Author Podcast host Joanne Morrell, author of children's and young adult fiction, women's fiction and short non fiction for authors, Joanne chats to Calum about:

how creative writing balances out low energy from our responsibilities
aspirations to write a full-length manuscript and how to succeed in between life commitments
Calum's books and tips for authors trying to write in between raising a family, working in an emotionally draining job and juggling life’s obilgations.

https://www.instagram.com/calum.greenall/

Publishing to a Professional Standard with Publisher and Editor Bernadette Foley

Joanne — Fri, 01 Mar 2024 03:29:23 +0000

For 30 years, Bernadette Foley has worked in-house and freelance for many of Australia’s leading publishing companies, including in the role of fiction and non-fiction publisher at Hachette Australia and Pan Macmillan.

Since 2015, she’s run Broadcast Books, working directly with writers, assisting and encouraging them to develop their writing skills through individual mentoring and workshops. As well, as working with authors to publish their books independently to a professional standard.

In the 116th episode of The HYBRID Author Podcast host Joanne Morrell, author of children's and young adult fiction, women's fiction and short non fiction for authors chats to Bernadette about:

working with industry professionals to publish your book to a professional standard
using your strengths and working within your constraints when money isn't permitted
copyright
Bernadette's time and lessons learned in traditional publishing
aswell as sharing her tips for self published authors.

This episode is proudly sponsored by Thorn Creative: where beautiful books are brought to life through cleverly designed author websites to drive traffic and sales for your book.

https://www.broadcastbooks.com.au/

https://www.eventbrite.com.au/e/discover-roadblocks-in-writing-with-joanne-morrell-tickets-809917032647

https://www.harvey.wa.gov.au/facilities/libraries/libraries-literacy-festival-2024

How to Chair a Panel With Children's Author and Award-winning Short Story Writer Nadia L King

Joanne — Fri, 23 Feb 2024 03:50:16 +0000

Nadia L King is an Australian author of Indian and Irish descent. She is a children’s author and award-winning short story writer who believes passionately in the power of stories to make the world a better place.

Nadia is currently undertaking postgraduate studies in English and creative writing. She is a proud role model for Books In Homes and lives in Western Australia with her family and an ever-expanding collection of books.

In the 115th episode of The HYBRID Author podcast host Joanne Morrell, author of children's and young adult fiction, women's fiction and short non fiction for authors chats to Nadia about:

the responsibilities of chairing a panel
being prepared and payments
Nadia's tips for authors looking to conduct this role
as well as sharing her blunders and positive panel moments.

This episode is proudly sponsored by Nicole Webb Book Publicity Services. Helping authors find their audience through lateral thinking and creating an individual media strategy tailored to each author and their book to achieve the best results.

https://www.nadialking.com/

The Author Launchpad Helping Authors of Non-fiction Earn an Income From Their Books with Chris Trammell

Joanne — Fri, 16 Feb 2024 08:50:50 +0000

Chris Trammell is the creator, head coach, and CEO of The Author Launchpad, a program where he helps Authors, Speakers, and Experts make life-changing recurring income and a fulfilling impact using his proven 3-Phase System. Chris has been a Performance Coach for over 3 decades, Curriculum Writer and Course developer for the Los Angeles Zoo High School. He is a 2x IRONMAN ARIZONA finisher where he raised thousands of dollars for the John Wayne Cancer Foundation.

In the 114th episode of The HYBRID Author podcast host Joanne Morrell, author of children's and young adult fiction, women's fiction and short non-fiction for authors, chats to Chris about his:

Author Launchpad Program
vision for mission-driven authors and their non-fiction books
million dollars M&Ms
Life Work
Generative A.I tools and predictions on what the future looks like for authors with these new technology tools and much more.

https://www.christrammellcoaching.com/the-author-launchpad

Writing Graphic Novels for Kids With Joel McKerrow

Joanne — Thu, 08 Feb 2024 06:53:56 +0000

Joel McKerrow is an award winning writer, keynote speaker, creativity specialist, children's author, educator and, having performed for hundreds of thousands of people throughout the world, is one of Australia’s most successful internationally touring, performance poets.

In the 113th episode of The HYBRID Author podcast host Joanne Morrell, author of children's and young adult fiction, women's fiction and short non fiction for authors chats to Joel about:

his first Junior Fiction/Graphic novel Urban Legend Hunters: The Dreaded Mr Snipe, due for release with Larrikin House publishers in early 2024
whether you need to be a visual person to write graphic novels
his advice to authors looking to write in this genre and score a traditional publishing deal and much more.

https://www.joelmckerrow.com/

This episode is brought to you by Atmosphere Press, a hybrid publisher helping authors publish books their readers will love.

The Seven Figure Marketing Mindset for Novelists With Jody J Sperling

Joanne — Fri, 02 Feb 2024 02:54:09 +0000

Jody J. Sperling is a novelist, podcaster, husband, and father. He's obsessed with writing the best books and showing other authors how to make the best books, bestsellers.

In the 112th episode of The HYBRID Author podcast host Joanne Morrell, author of children's and young adult fiction, women's fiction and short non fiction for authors chats to Jody about:

secrets from his book the seven figure marketing mindset
marketing campaigns
marketing wins and fails
kickstarter
being authentic and honest with your marketing
Jody's marketing advice to authors and so much more.

This episode is proudly sponsored by Thorn Creative: where beautiful books are brought to life through cleverly designed author websites to drive traffic and sales for your book.

https://www.eventbrite.com.au/e/discover-roadblocks-in-writing-with-joanne-morrell-tickets-809917032647?aff=oddtdtcreator

https://podcasts.apple.com/au/podcast/trbm/id1603166771?i=1000643865931

https://www.jodyjsperling.com/

Will You or Won't You AI? With Joanne Morrell

Joanne — Fri, 26 Jan 2024 08:05:06 +0000

The Generative Artificial Intelligence (AI) conversation within the writing community exploded in 2023. Watching both sides battle for and against from afar, host Joanne Morrell, author of children's and young adult fiction, women's fiction and short non fiction for authors, experiments with AI on her own terms. Joanne shares her findings as well as the conversations among author organisations in the 111th episode of the HYBRID Author Podcast, to help you determine will you or won't you AI in 2024?

https://www.asauthors.org.au/advocacy/artificial-intelligence/

https://selfpublishingadvice.org/ai-for-authors-guidelines/

https://www.turnitin.com/blog/5-historical-moments-that-shaped-plagiarism

chatgpt

google bard

Mel Torrefranca on What Motivates Young Authors to Write

Joanne — Fri, 19 Jan 2024 00:46:27 +0000

Mel Torrefranca is a novelist from the San Francisco Bay Area, now residing in the jungly mountains of Northern Thailand. Her books feature morally gray characters, bold endings, and a pinch of awkward humor. Mel published her debut novel, Leaving Wishville, in high school at aged 17!

In the 110th episode of the HYBRID Author Podcast host Joanne Morrell, author of children's and young adult fiction, women's fiction and short non fiction for authors chats to Mel about:

writing from a young age
being a teenage novelist
what motivates young people to write
inspiring content for motivation
social media platforms for authors
advice to young novelists
Mel's books and more.

https://www.meltorrefranca.com/

Making Money with Emotion With Award Winning Author of Speculative and Contemporary Fiction Zena Shapter

Joanne — Thu, 11 Jan 2024 12:18:26 +0000

Zena Shapter is a multi-award-winning author of speculative and contemporary fiction. She is a mentor, manuscript assessor, editor, publishing assistant and facilitator of writing groups.

In the 109th episode of The HYBRID Author Podcast host Joanne Morrell, author of children's and young adult fiction, women's fiction and short non fiction for authors chats to Zena about:

ways of monitsing a creative career
how creatives might make money with emotions via the Japanese concept Ikigai
how Zena has applied earning money through emotion in her own author career
Zena’s advice to authors struggling to tap into the emotional aspects of their work and much more.

https://www.trybooking.com/eventlist/freelancewritingbusiness

This episode is proudly sponsored by Thorn Creative: where beautiful books are brought to life through cleverly designed author websites to drive traffic and sales for your book.

http://zenashapter.com

https://savvytokyo.com/ikigai-japanese-concept-finding-purpose-life/

Atmosphere Press, Taking Charge of Your Destiny as a Creator, Ignore the Haters or Lower Your Standards? With Dr Nick Coutright

Joanne — Thu, 04 Jan 2024 09:53:29 +0000

Dr. Nick Courtright is Founder and Executive Editor of Atmosphere Press. Recently publishing it’s 1000^th title, Atmosphere press, is a literary hybrid publisher, stewarding a team of 40 providing meaningful and rewarding experiences to writers.

Nick is also the author of the poetry collections The Forgotten World, Let There Be Light, and Punchline. His latest book, on poetry interpretation, is In Perfect Silence at the Stars: Walt Whitman and the Meaning of Poems. Nick’s writing has been featured in a plethora of literary magazines and he was recently named one of LA Weekly’s “15 Book Coaches to Watch.

In the 108th episode of The HYBRID Author podcast host Joanne Morrell, author of children's and young adult fiction, women's fiction and short non fiction for authors chats to Nick about:

what some of the ways creators can take charge of their own creative destiny's are?
how creative’s might lower their standards to ignore the haters and how they might avoid falling into this trap
Nick’s advice for creatives to stay on track with their creative destiny throughout the length of their careers
Hybrid publishing with Atmosphere Press and much more.

This episode is proudly sponsored by Thorn Creative: where beautiful books are brought to life through cleverly designed author websites to drive traffic and sales for your book.

https://atmospherepress.com

Lessons Learned in 2023 and What's in Store for 2024

Joanne — Fri, 29 Dec 2023 06:10:56 +0000

Happy New Year when it comes!

And to celebrate, episode 107 is on Lessons Learned in 2023 and What’s In Store for 2024. Where host of The HYBRID Author podcast, Joanne Morrell, author of children's and young adult fiction, women's fiction and short non fiction for authors chats lessons learned, money earned and whether she hit her goals in 2022 Lessons Learned and What’s to Be in 2023 show.

This episode is brought to you by Atmosphere Press, a hybrid publisher helping authors publish books their readers will love.

A Merry Xmas Mashup of 2023 HYBRID Author Guests Since September

Joanne — Fri, 22 Dec 2023 04:33:28 +0000

Merry Christmas when it comes! And to celebrate, here's a mashup of 2023 guests of The HYBRID Author Podcast since September. This includes:

Episode 92 Preparing For Podcast Appearances with me Joanne Morrell
Episode 93 Tess Woods on The Little Red Street Library
Episode 94 Writing Authentic Historical Fiction with S. J. Butler
Episode 95 Workshopping in Libraries with Children’s Indie Author Kristy Nita Brown
Episode 96 Writing The Shadow With Non-fiction Award-nominated, New York Times and USA Today Bestselling Thriller Author Joanna Penn
Episode 97 Picture Book Author Ky Garvey on Making Time to Write Being a Creative Carer to Children with Special Needs
Episode 98 Larrikin House Publishers Dani Vee and James Layton on Submissions and The HYBRID Business Model
Episode 99 Sarah Epstein ‘A Year in The Life of an Indie Author’
Episode 100 Lessons Learned Hitting 100 Episodes of The HYBRID Author Podcast!
Episode 101 Writing Through Difficult Times With Children’s Co-Author Lauren Hackney
Episode 102 Producing Indie Audiobooks For Kids with Julie Anne Grasso
Episode 103 An Almost Merry Xmas Mashup for 2023
Episode 104 Mental Health in Writers With Memoir Prose Poet Cynthia Marie Hoffman
Episode 105 From Manuscript to Bestseller: The Transformative Power of Professional Guidance’ With Author and Visionary Entrepreneur Andrea Putting

This episode is proudly sponsored by Thorn Creative: where beautiful books are brought to life through cleverly designed author websites to drive traffic and sales for your book.

https://allianceindependentauthors.org/?affid=17351

From Manuscript to Bestseller: The Transformative Power of Professional Guidance’ With Author and Visionary Entrepreneur Andrea Puting

Joanne — Wed, 13 Dec 2023 07:44:18 +0000

Andrea Puting is a visionary entrepreneur and the founder of Chocolate and Coffee Day for Religious Harmony. Her best-selling and award-winning books, "Compassionate Prosperity" and "Compassionate Purpose," weave together the threads of social mission with the quest for deeper meaning in our lives. As a speaker and podcast host, Andrea advocates for unity and the potent impact of storytelling.

In the 105th episode of The HYBRID Author podcast host Joanne Morrell, author of children's and young adult fiction, women's fiction and short non fiction for authors, chats to Andrea about:

what types of professional guidance can be offered to transform a manuscript to a bestseller
At what stage of the manuscript should professional guidance be undertaken
Andrea’s advice to authors on finding trusted sources of professional guidance
her work, services and much more.

https://andreaputting.com.au

Mental Health in Writers With Memoir Prose Poet Cynthia Marie Hoffman

Joanne — Fri, 08 Dec 2023 02:11:45 +0000

Cynthia Marie Hoffman is the author of four collections of poetry, all published with Persea Books. Her newest, Exploding Head, out in February 2024, is a memoir-in-prose-poems about her lifelong journey with obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD).

In the 104th episode of The HYBRID Author Podcast host Joanne Morrell, author of children's and young adult fiction, women's fiction and short non fiction for authors, chats to Cynthia about mental health in writers.

Cynthia shares her experiences of living with OCD from a young age
her writing processes, poems from Exploding Head
how writing helps or hinders writers who suffer from mental health in creating and publishing their words
writing other's mental health stories and much more.

https://www.cynthiamariehoffman.com

An Almost Merry Xmas Mashup for 2023

Joanne — Fri, 01 Dec 2023 03:08:29 +0000

It's the 1st of December! And to celebrate the 103rd episode of The HYBRID Author podcast, we have an almost merry Xmas mashup of some of the past podcast guests since June. This includes:

Episode 79 Marketing Advertising for Authors with Prolific Crime Thriller Writer Phillip Strang

Episode 80 Brock Swinson on ‘Ink by The Barrel, Secrets From Prolific Writers’

Episode 81 Chenee Marrapodi ‘The Dos and Don’ts of a Debut Author’

Episode 82 Repetitive Strain Injury (RSI) in Writers with Award Winning Children’s Author Meg McKinlay

Episode 83 Dr. Aparna Baruah on Women Leading the Way

Episode 84 Writing Metaphor With Children’s Author Molly Fernandes

Episode 85 Intuitive Somatic Mentor and Award Winning Non-Fiction Author Stacey Webb on Limiting Beliefs in Authorship

Episode 86 A Body of Work With Award Winning Young Adult Author AJ Betts

Episode 87 Small Press Author Process with Children’s Author Jen Sherrington and Wild Eyed Press Publisher Leanne White

Episode 88 Breaking into Screenwriting with Children’s Author and Screenwriter Kathryn Lefroy

Episode 89 Presenting to Kids with Nat Amoore and Cathie Tasker

Episode 90 Signing Your Second Book Deal With Children’s Picture Book Author Jevita Nilson

Episode 91 Your HYBRID Author Profile and How to Build Balance Sustaining a HYBRID Author Career with me, host Joanne Morrell, author of children's and young adult fiction, women's fiction and short non fiction for authors.

Producing Indie Audiobooks For Kids with Julie Anne Grasso

Joanne — Thu, 23 Nov 2023 08:31:22 +0000

Julie Anne Grasso is an indie author of the Frankie Dupont Mystery Series for middle grade. She works part time in public libraries as a storyteller and in July 2024 her debut picture book “Hooray, Hooray, It’s Library Day,” will be released by Scholastic making her an official hybrid author!

In the 102nd episode of The HYBRID Author Podcast host Joanne Morrell, author of children's and young adult fiction, women's fiction and short non fiction for authors, chats to Julie about:

how to produce audiobooks for children
Julie's processes and set up
DIY audio booths, public library recording studios
narration, character accents and preparing voice
marketing, selling direct and
Julie's advice to authors interested in making audiobooks.

https://julieannegrassobooks.com

https://www.writerscentre.com.au/store/courses/your-audiobook-advantage/

Writing Through Difficult Times With Children's Co-Author Lauren Hackney

Joanne — Fri, 17 Nov 2023 02:08:50 +0000

Lauren Hackney is the co-author of the children's book series 'The Lolly Shop'. A bedtime tale collaborated with her 2 sons, emerging through the darkness of despair. Together, in the difficultest of times, they found escapism and joy through the power of writing.

In the 101th episode of The HYBRID Author podcast host Joanne Morrell, author of children's and young adult fiction, women's fiction and short non fiction for writers chats to Lauren about:

losing your job and pivoting your career during the pandemic
parenting whilst dealing with personal trauma after medical emergencies and family heartache
escaping into imagination and immersing yourself with the power of storytelling and so much more.

http://www.lbehackney.com

Lessons Learned Hitting 100 Episodes of The HYBRID Author Podcast!

Joanne — Fri, 10 Nov 2023 10:26:03 +0000

The HYBRID Author Podcast has hit 100 episodes!

To celebrate host Joanne Morrell, author of children's and young adult fiction, women's fiction and short non fiction for authors, celebrates by sharing lessons learned from hitting 100; Joanne chats

the origins of the show
podcast processes
analytics
author tips, fears and favs from past guests and
what you can expect from the next 100!

Sarah Epstein 'A Year in The Life of an Indie Author'

Joanne — Thu, 02 Nov 2023 22:26:14 +0000

Sarah Epstein is an award-winning Australian HYBRID author of suspenseful psychological thrillers and contemporary young adult fiction.

In the 99th episode of The HYBRID Author Podcast host Joanne Morrell, author of children's and young adult fiction, women's fiction and short non fiction for authors, chats to Sarah about:

lessons learned: one year as an indie author
whether entering self published books into awards is worth it
foreign rights deals and foreign rights agents
earning an author income through indie publishing compared to traditional publishing
marketing efforts
Sarah's tips and so much more.

This episode is proudly spornsored by Nicole Webb Book Publicity https://nicolewebbonline.com/book-publicity-services

https://sarahepsteinbooks.com

Larrikin House Publishers Dani Vee and James Layton on Submissions and The HYBRID Business Model

Joanne — Fri, 27 Oct 2023 00:43:36 +0000

Dani Vee is a podcaster of the popular literary podcast Words and Nerds. She works in publicity and acquisitions at Larrikin House and is also an author of picture books which include ‘My EXTRAordinary Mum', and the ‘My EPIC Dad!’ series.

James Layton is the Larri-King of Larrikin House, running two successful businesses. He is unwavering in his commitment in creating edgy, wacky, quirky books that push boundaries. You’ll find James inside a Zoom screen, making yet another spreadsheet, meticulously sorting out his warehouse or trying not to get cancelled at literary events.

In the 98th episode of The HYBRID Author Podcast host Joanne Morrell, author of children's and young adult fiction, women's fiction and short non fiction for authors, chats to James and Dani about:

hybrid business models
author submissions
picture book rhyming dos and don'ts
their tips for authors looking to publish with Larrikin House, plans for the future and so much more.

https://plottr.com

https://larrikinhouse.com.au/#

https://selfpublishingadvice.org/selfpubcon23-lineup/

Picture Book Author Ky Garvey on Making Time to Write Being a Creative Carer to Children with Special Needs

Joanne — Thu, 19 Oct 2023 22:35:26 +0000

Ky Garvey is an author who writes fun and engaging stories that turn challenges into triumphs in a way that is supportive, inclusive and empowering. She also writes and hosts the podcast Totally Lit and has two sons diagnosed with Autistic Spectrum Disorder and ADHD.

In the 97th episode of The HYBRID Author Podcast host Joanne Morrell, author of children's and young adult fiction, women's fiction and short non fiction for authors, chats to Ky about:

how to make time to write as a mother of kids with special needs
how her kids have inspired her work
being an advocate for kids on the spectrum
the challenges Ky and her family have faced
Ky's books, writing advice and so much more.

https://ekbooks.org/creators-2/ky-garvey/?v=6cc98ba2045f

Writing The Shadow With Non-fiction Award-nominated, New York Times and USA Today Bestselling Thriller Author Joanna Penn

Joanne — Fri, 13 Oct 2023 12:05:24 +0000

Award winning podcaster and creative entrepreneur Joanna Penn writes non-fiction for authors and is a New York Times and USA Today bestselling thriller author as J.F.Penn.

In the 96th episode of The HYBRID Author Podcast host Joanne Morrell, author of children's and young adult fiction, women's fiction and short non-fiction for authors, chats to Joanna about:

defining writing your shadow
identifying your white and dark horse counterparts
traditional and self publishing
analysing your characters' shadow
Kickstarter campaigns
our own shadows, writing, books and much more.

https://www.thecreativepenn.com/books/

https://nicolewebbonline.com/book-publicity-services

Workshopping in Libraries with Children's Indie Author Kristy Nita Brown

Joanne — Wed, 04 Oct 2023 06:11:54 +0000

Kristy Nita Brown is an indie author of junior fiction and a qualified teacher and TAFE lecturer. Kristy delivers creative writing, independent publishing and film making workshops at libraries and schools, and is an active member of the Australian writing community.

In the 95th episode of the HYBRID Author Podcast host Joanne Morrell, author of children's and young adult fiction, women's fiction and short non fiction for authors, chats to Kristy about:

workshopping in libraries
connecting with your local Youth Collection Librarian
what to include when pitching libraries
rates of pay
best and worst bits of workshopping
Kristy's tips
her books and so much more.

https://www.kristynitabrown.com.au

Writing Authentic Historical Fiction with S. J. Butler

Joanne — Wed, 27 Sep 2023 09:56:22 +0000

S. J. Butler was born in London, England, and grew up writing poetry in the Essex countryside. After graduating from university in her fifties, her dream was always to become a published author. A Very British Disaster which is historical fiction based on a true story during the very first Anglo-Afghan war in 1838 is the realisation of that dream.

In the 94th episode of The HYBRID Author Podcast host Joanne Morrell, author of children's and young adult fiction, women's fiction and short non fiction for authors, chats to S. J. about:

how reading inspires a work of writing
how to stay true to writing historical fiction
cost and gaining permissions to use quotes by other authors in the genre
writing courses
self publishing
SJ's tips for authors looking to write historical fiction
her book and more.

https://www.sjbutlerauthor.com

https://nicolewebbonline.com/book-publicity-services

Tess Woods on The Little Red Street Library

Joanne — Thu, 21 Sep 2023 08:19:04 +0000

Tess Woods is an Australian physiotherapist and bestselling and award winning author of contemporary fiction. Tess recently launched The Little Red Street Library in her neighbourhood; a free library to showcase and promote Australian authors.

In the 93rd episode of The HYBRID Author podcast host Joanne Morrell, author of children's and young adult fiction, women's fiction and short non fiction for authors chats to Tess about:

how one might go about starting their own street library
council permissions
design
book supplies
general upkeep
connecting with community
Tess's books and much more.

https://www.instagram.com/littleredstreetlibrary/

https://www.tesswoods.com.au

Preparing For Podcast Appearances With Joanne Morrell

Joanne — Fri, 15 Sep 2023 08:15:42 +0000

In the 92nd episode of The HYBRID Author Podcast host Joanne Morrell, author of children's and young adult fiction, women's fiction and short non fiction for authors, shares tips on how you can prepare for podcast appearances:

identifying your podcast appearance
podcast processes
preparing your podcast recording space
calming nerves
preparing your podcast information and key takeaways for preparing your podcast mindset.

https://plottr.com

https://www.writerscentre.com.au/blog/how-to-pitch-yourself-to-a-podcast/

Signing Your Second Book Deal With Children's Picture Book Author Jevita Nilson

Joanne — Wed, 06 Sep 2023 10:37:46 +0000

Jevita Nilson is a published children's author from Perth who is passionate about writing lyrical fiction and non-fiction picture books. Her stories weave together nature, family, emotions, and the eternal joys of childhood. She also writes fun rhyming picture books for the pre-school market. Her first book, Happy Hearts, was published in 2020, and her second picture book will be released in 2025.

In the 91st episode of the HYBRID Author Podcast host Joanne Morrell, author of children's and young adult fiction, women's fiction and short non fiction for authors, chats to Jevita about:

signing your second book deal
timing
keeping hope alive
staying in the game
contracts
confidence and much more.

https://www.jevitanilson.com

https://www.writerscentre.com.au/blog/how-to-pitch-yourself-to-a-podcast/

Your HYBRID Author Profile and How to Build Balance Sustaining a HYBRID Author Career

Joanne — Thu, 31 Aug 2023 13:29:08 +0000

In the 90th! Episode of the HYBRID Author Podcast host Joanne Morrell, author of children's and young adult fiction, women's fiction and short non fiction for authors, defines the various traits which make up your hybrid author profile.

Joanne also offers insights into how you can build balance sustaining a hybrid author career through small steps, organisation, scheduling, prioritising and defining what hybrid having it all looks like to you.

Presenting to Kids with Nat Amoore and Cathie Tasker

Joanne — Wed, 23 Aug 2023 11:43:24 +0000

Nat Amoore is a Sydney-based writer and author of secrets of a schoolyard millionaire, the power of positive pranking, the right way to rock and we run tomorrow.

Once a publisher and editor, Cathie Tasker has edited and commissioned over 800 books and now works as a creative writing teacher and freelance project manager of picture books.

In the 89th episode of the HYBRID Author Podcast host Joanne Morrell, author of children's and young adult fiction, women's fiction and short non fiction for authors, chats to Cathie and Nat about their course run through the Australian Writers Centre 'Presenting to Kids':

discovering your brand and presenting it accordingly
presenting and books sales as one entity
breaking down presenting to kids' age groups and year levels
the technical side to presenting
book launches
social media
the business side of presenting: how to get your books to events
Nat and Cathie's best and worst parts of presenting and much more!

https://www.natamoore.com

https://cathietasker.com

https://www.writerscentre.com.au/store/courses/presenting-to-kids/

Breaking into Screenwriting with Children's Author and Screenwriter Kathryn Lefroy

Joanne — Thu, 17 Aug 2023 03:07:31 +0000

Kathryn Lefroy writes screenplays for film and TV, novels, and articles about technology for some of the world’s top brands. Her family feature film, Whale Shark Jack, is shooting on location in Exmouth later this year. She’s currently developing a number of other film and TV projects with production companies across the USA, UK, Australia, and India. Her debut novel, Alex and the Alpacas Save the World, was shortlisted for the prestigious Premier's Award, and the sequel was released in 2022 to critical acclaim.

In the 88th episode of The HYBRID Author Podcast host Joanne Morrell, author of children's and young adult fiction, women's fiction and short non fiction for authors, chats to Kathryn about:

the process after you've written a screenplay
networking with the right people
not to be missed events within the film industry
screenwriting etiquette
living in Australia and working in LA
pitching streaming services
Kathryn's work and much more.

Small Press Author Process with Children's Author Jen Sherrington and Wild Eyed Press Publisher Leanne White

Joanne — Fri, 11 Aug 2023 02:06:36 +0000

Jen Sherrington is a children’s author and educator based in Perth, Western Australia. Leanne White is a fine artist, children’s book illustrator, editor and publisher within Wild Eyed Press: a small traditional publishing house with a strong focus on Australian natural environment.

In the 87th episode of the HYBRID Author Podcast host Joanne Morrell, author of children's and young adult fiction, women's fiction and short non fiction for authors, chats to Jen and Leanne about:

the small press author process from writing a work, submission, contracts to artwork, editoral, market and promotion
Jen's advice to debut authors and
publishing shares from Leanne around ideas which grab publishers and timing.

https://wildeyedpress.com.au

A Body of Work With Award Winning Young Adult Author AJ Betts

Joanne — Thu, 03 Aug 2023 10:37:49 +0000

A.J. Betts is an author, speaker, teacher, columnist and keen cyclist. Her latest work is a fun realistic novel called ONE SONG, about a teenage band trying to record a song to enter into the prestigious Triple J Unearthed High competition. Her earlier books include the two-book speculative fiction series comprising of HIVE and Rogue and ZAC & MIA which is available in 14 countries and was made into an Emmy Award-winning Hollywood television series as well as Wavelength and Shutterspeed.

In the 86th episode of the HYBRID Author podcast host Joanne Morrell, author of children's and young adult fiction and short non fiction for authors chats to AJ about:

her body of work: time, pacing, voice
agents
author brand
AJ's author advice and much more.

http://www.ajbetts.com

Intuitive Somatic Mentor and Award Winning Non-Fiction Author Stacey Webb on Limiting Beliefs in Authorship

Joanne — Fri, 28 Jul 2023 04:50:05 +0000

Stacey Webb is the Author of the Multi-Award-Winning Book, ‘The Intuitive Detective’ a healing memoir on how following your intuition can support your healing journey, which includes her time on being a detective within the Police Force.

She has recently released her second book 'Foundations of Tapping and The Foundations of Tapping Companion Workbook', teaching you different tapping practices also in support of healing.

In the 85th episode of the HYBRID Author podcast host Joanne Morrell, children's and young adult fiction writer and author of short non-fiction for authors, chats to Stacey about: limiting beliefs in authorship (the why, when and how they arise), recognition and releasing them, intuition, somatic body work her books and so much more.

https://staceywebb.vipmembervault.com/products/courses/view/1127080

Writing Metaphor With Children's Author Molly Fernandes

Joanne — Thu, 20 Jul 2023 00:27:49 +0000

As a teacher and writer just starting her children's author adventure, Molly Fernandes is well versed in writing metaphor. Her works include rhyming picture book Owen's Afternoon Tea and novel Call of The Boodier.

In the 84th episode of the HYBRID Author Podcast host Joanne Morrell, author of children's and young adult fiction and short non fiction for authors, chats to Molly about writing metaphor:

what metaphor is
the use of metaphor in various works
Molly's books
AI and more.

https://m.facebook.com/TeachingonthePatio/

Dr. Aparna Baruah on Women Leading the Way

Joanne — Wed, 12 Jul 2023 22:16:39 +0000

Dr. Aparna Baruah is a highly accomplished woman who has achieved success in many different areas of her life. She is passionate about inspiring and empowering others and believes everyone has the potential to live a happy and fulfilling life. Dr. Baruah is an author in the powerful anthology, "Women Leading the Way” where she shares her personal journey of self-discovery.

In the 83rd episode of The HYBRID Author Podcast host Joanne Morrell, author of children's and young adult fiction and short non fiction for authors chats to Dr. Aparna Baruah on:

self respect
reflection
time to write
her books and more.

https://www.kmdbooks.com/forgetmenot

Repetitive Strain Injury (RSI) in Writers with Award Winning Children's Author Meg McKinlay

Joanne — Wed, 05 Jul 2023 22:12:03 +0000

Meg McKinlay has published twenty books for children, ranging from picture books through to young adult novels, and a collection of poetry for adults. Her work has won numerous awards, including the Prime Minister’s Literary Award, the Children’s Book Council Book of the Year Award, the Queensland Literary Award, and the WA Premier’s Book Award. Her latest title is Ella and the Useless Day.

In the 82nd episode of The HYBRID Author podcast host Joanne Morrell, author of children's and young adult fiction and short non fiction for authors, chats to Meg about her experience with RSI, from first feelings to managing it as well as Meg's tips for authors looking to prevent developing this type of pain through posture, reducing load, time, pacing, stretching and adopting dictation style techniques.

https://megmckinlay.com

Chenee Marrapodi 'The Dos and Don'ts of a Debut Author'

Joanne — Tue, 27 Jun 2023 22:00:07 +0000

Chenee Marrapodi is an Australian writer and podcaster. She has worked in media for many years, currently for Channel Nine News, and formerly as a reporter for Channel Seven’s Today Tonight, as well as online news and radio. Chenee’s love of words is rivalled only by her love of dance. Combining the two, One Wrong Turn is her debut novel.

In the 81st episode of the HYBRID Author Podcast host Joanne Morrell, author of children's and young adult fiction and short non fiction for writers chats to fellow podcast host Chenee about:

manuscript rewrites
rejections at the tender age of 12
writing groups
traditional publishing house preparations for debut authors
contract to publishing and editing process
best and worst bits of being a debut
and Chenee shares her tips for emerging authors.

https://www.cheneemarrapodi.com

Brock Swinson on 'Ink by The Barrel, Secrets From Prolific Writers'

Joanne — Wed, 21 Jun 2023 05:03:02 +0000

Brock Swinson is an interviewer for Creative Screenwriting, podcaster of the Creative Principles Podcast and author of 'Ink by the Barrel, Secrets From Prolific Writers'.

In the 80th episode of the HYBRID Author podcast host Joanne Morrell, author of children's and young adult fiction and short non fiction for authors chats to Brock about:

his books and documentary
ghost writing
creative practice
the Creative Principles Podcast
interviewing skills and
Brock's celebrity interviews with the likes of Ethan Hawke for the Creative Screenwriting magazine.

https://www.brockswinson.com/ink

Marketing Advertising for Authors with Prolific Crime Thriller Writer Phillip Strang

Joanne — Wed, 14 Jun 2023 20:09:14 +0000

Phillip Strang has spent many intervening years in a myriad of countries, some calm and safe - others, no more than war zones. He now resides in Sydney and is the author of thirty-four books, and counting; the majority of them are crime thrillers based in the United Kingdom; he has also written several books on terrorism and one on a pandemic.

In the 79th episode of The HYBRID Author Podcast host Joanne Morrell, author of children's and young adult fiction and short non fiction for authors, chats to Phillip about:

dedicated and consistant writing practice
defining the type of author you want to be
the importance of marketing
email lists and social media platforms
Amazon and Facebook ad spend, use, keywords and much more.

https://www.phillipstrang.com

2023 Mid-year Mashup!

Joanne — Thu, 08 Jun 2023 04:52:53 +0000

We've hit the middle of the year! And to celebrate here is a mid-year mashup of the rest of the guests from The HYBRID Author Podcast in 2023 (to date), such as:

Joanne Morrell on '5 things an authorship career brings other than money'
new adult sweet romance author Tiffany Noelle Chacon on 'facing your fears'
Jess Gately on 'editing for authors'
New York Times-bestselling and multi-award winning crime author Ellie Marney on 'hybrid authorship and writing crime'
Adult contemporary, historical fiction, middle grade and paranormal young adult author Sasha Wasley on 'managing multiple pseudonyms'
Award winning author and publisher at Gumnut Press Polly Holmes on 'writing cozy mysteries'
Primary author Alex Holland on fantasy and sci fi secret ingredients
Award winning children's and young adult author Lisa Van Der Wielen on keeping writing and publishing momentum as an indie author and
Bestselling romantic suspense and alpine crime author Lee Christine on 'why it's never too late to turn lifelong dreams into reality'.

It's Never Too Late To Turn Lifelong Dreams Into Reality with Bestselling Romantic Suspense and Alpine Crime Author Lee Christine

Joanne — Thu, 01 Jun 2023 23:12:55 +0000

Bestselling Australian author Lee Christine proves that at 60, it’s never too late to turn lifelong dreams into reality. Lee is the writer of six romantic suspense novels and three alpine-crime novels, including the best-selling and award winning Charlotte Pass, and best-selling Crackenback.

In the 77th episode of The HYBRID Author podcast host Joanne Morrell, author of children's and young adult fiction and short non fiction for authors, chats to Lee about:

author fears
drawing on life experiences
writing what you know
researching firsthand
how Lee's writing has changed from when she begun to now
tips for authors looking to turn their author dreams into reality
her books and much more.

https://leechristine.com.au

Keeping Writing and Publishing Momentum as an Indie Author With Award Winning Children's and Young Adult Author Lisa Van Der Wielen

Joanne — Thu, 25 May 2023 03:07:20 +0000

Winner of the SCBWI Spark Award Lisa Van Der Wielen is a children's and young adult author from Perth, Western Australia. She is a writer and lover of poetry, children's books, chapter books and novels, as well as an enthusiastic Educator and Mum of two.

In the 76th episode of The HYBRID Author Podcast host Joanne Morrell, author of children's and young adult fiction and short non fiction for authors chats to Lisa on:

how to keep momentum writing and publishing books as an indie author
motivation, balancing and prioritising parenting and life commitments against creative ones
what author success looks like
hybrid authorship
social media platforms
The Spark Award, her books and more.

https://www.lisavanderwielen.com

An Almost Mid-year Mashup of 2023 Guests

Joanne — Thu, 18 May 2023 06:51:51 +0000

To celebrate episode 75, here is an almost mid-year mashup of some of the first guests of The HYBRID Author Podcast in 2023, such as:

award winning children’s author Dianne Wolfer on 'writing across genres'
proud sponsor of the HYBRID Author podcast (software) Plottr’s Education Lead Troy Lambert on 'planning your books the way you think'
An Ly-Tampere on 'setting up a writing coaching business to sustain your dreams as a writer'
'how the marketing power of a bestseller will take you from a best-kept secret to a go-to expert’ with Steve Kidd
'5 tips to help you prepare your print book for production through Ingram Spark' with (me) Joanne Morrell
Natalie Normann on 'writing Norwegian and contemporary romance'
Rachael Johns on 'the romance writers of Australia (RWA)'
award winning children’s and young adult author Pip Harry on 'hybrid writing styles'
'SWAP Marketing Without Money' with Therese Tarlington
'you’ll make a wonderful parent, advice and encouragement for rainbow families of all kinds' with 'Jasper Peach
Hardie Grant Publisher Emily Hart on 'Non fiction and gaps in the market' and
'everything you need to know about hybrid publishing' with P.L Stuart.

Fantasy and Sci-Fi Secret Ingredients for 'Primary' with Author Alex Holland

Joanne — Wed, 10 May 2023 12:25:29 +0000

Raised on Tolkien, Final Fantasy 7 and Monty Python, fantasy and sci-fi lover and enthusiast, Alex Holland stopped daydreaming and wrote and produced his debut first in series 'Primary' and hasn't looked back.

In the 74th episode of the HYBRID Author podcast host Joanne Morrell, author of children's and young adult fiction and short non-fiction for authors chats to Alex about:

the secret ingredients blending the Enuma Elish, Ray Kurzweil predictions, Star Wars, Jane Elliot’s blue eyes and brown eyes experiment and Game of Thrones themes into his book
his writing, publishing and promoting process as well as
perfecting writing styles
the use of AI tools and much more.

Up to listen now folks and as always please leave me a wee review if you found the episode helpful.

http://hybridauthor.com.au/podcast/

#scifiauthors #authorsoffantasy #scifiandfantasylovers #scifiandfantasybooks #bookworms #bookishcommunity #experimentalwritingandplay #AI #AItools #perfectingwritingstyles #authorssupportingauthors #indieauthors #selfpublisihedcommunity #authorsofLinnkedin #authorshelpingauthors #podcasts #writingpodcasts #authorship #authorcareer

Writing Cozy Mysteries With Award Winning Author and Publisher at Gumnut Press Polly Holmes

Joanne — Fri, 05 May 2023 03:00:10 +0000

Polly Holmes is an award-winning Australian author who writes paranormal and culinary cozy mysteries and paranormal suspense.

Her publishing company Gumnut Press has previously taken out gold in the National Business Awards in the Hustle and Heart category.

In the 73rd episode of the HYBRID Author podcast host Joanne Morrell, author of children's and young adult fiction and short non fiction for authors, chats to Polly about:

defining the cozy mystery genre
what tropes readers can expect when they pick one up
rapid release publishing and Polly shares her tips for aspiring authors looking to pursue an authorship career.

https://www.gumnutpress.com

Adult Contemporary, Historical Fiction, Middle Grade and Paranormal Young Adult Author Sasha Wasley on Managing Multiple Pseudonyms

Joanne — Wed, 26 Apr 2023 07:35:24 +0000

Sasha Wasley writes adult contemporary, historical fiction, as well as middle grade fiction as Ash Harrier and paranormal young adult novels as S.D. Wasley. Sasha is a WA Ambassador for Books in Homes Australia charity promoting early book ownership for life success. She currently has 16 books out in the world and counting.

In the 72nd episode of The HYBRID Author podcast host Joanne Morrell, author of children's and young adult fiction and short non fiction for authors chats to Sasha on managing multiple author names, brands and genres as well as hybrid authorship and much, much more.

https://sashawasley.com

New York Times-Bestselling and Multi-Award-Winning Crime Author Ellie Marney on HYBRID Authorship and Writing Crime

Joanne — Thu, 20 Apr 2023 08:12:36 +0000

Ellie Marney is a New York Times-bestselling and multi-award-winning crime author. Her titles include The Killing Code, None Shall Sleep, the Every trilogy, No Limits, White Night and the Circus Hearts series. Ellie’s work has been published in eleven countries and optioned for television. She’s spent a lifetime researching in mortuaries, interviewing law enforcement officers, talking to autopsy specialists, and asking former spies how to make explosives from household items – she now lives quite sedately in north-central Victoria with her family.

In the 71st episode of the HYBRID Author podcast host Joanne Morrell, author of children's and young adult fiction and short non fiction for authors chats to Ellie on:

hybrid authorship
writing crime
organisations to join for first time crime writers
empathy when talking to crime professionals
writing from perpetrator and protagonist perspectives
researching, interviewing and much more.

https://elliemarney.com

Editing for Authors With Jess Gately

Joanne — Wed, 12 Apr 2023 08:46:21 +0000

Jess Gately is a freelance publishing professional specialising in structural editing for speculative fiction. She tutors at Curtin University, is the President of Editors WA (a branch of the Institute of Professional Editors), sits on the Board for the Small Press Network of Australia, and has worked for a number of literary organisations and publishers and has been a judge for the Aurealis Awards since 2019. Her master's thesis explored the process of editing a work of speculative fiction that utilises fictional languages. Jess is passionate about working with emerging Australian writers and editors.

In the 70th episode of the HYBRID Author podcast host Joanne Morrell, author of children's and young adult fiction and short non fiction for authors, chats to Jess about:

repeat structural editing errors
editing processes
story structure, character progression
self editing tips, first drafts and much more.

https://www.jjgately.com

Facing Your Fears With New Adult Sweet Romance Author Tiffany Noelle Chacon

Joanne — Thu, 06 Apr 2023 23:26:32 +0000

Tiffany Noelle Chacone has been riding horses since before she could walk. She's competed in a variety of disciplines from barrel racing to showing Arabians, to dressage and show jumping. With a Masters of Fine Arts in Creative Writing from the University of Tampa, Florida, Tiffany has released her first novel, new adult sweet romance, Jump.

In the 69th episode of the HYBRID Author Podcast host Joanne Morrell, author of children's and young adult fiction and short non fiction for authors chats to Tiffany about her new book, facing your fears in writing, publishing and after trauma, rejection, self doubt and imposter syndrome.

https://tiffanynoellechacon.com/

5 Things an Authorship Career Brings Other Than Money With Joanne Morrell

Joanne — Thu, 30 Mar 2023 07:55:30 +0000

Chasing the publishing dream, being rejected, putting yourself out there, striving to earn money from your author career can on occasion leave you feeling exhausted, down, second guessing yourself and your work and let loose a multitude of negative emotions.

In the 68th episode of the HYBRID Author Podcast host Joanne Morrell, author of children's and young adult fiction and short non fiction for authors, chats on 5 things an authorship career brings other than money.

https://hybridauthor.com.au/

https://wachslibrary.health.wa.gov.au/c.php?g=437649&p=3386960

Everything You Need to Know About HYBRID Publishing With P.L Stuart

Joanne — Thu, 23 Mar 2023 09:06:42 +0000

P.L. Stuart was born in Toronto, Canada. He holds a university degree in English, specialising in Medieval Literature. P.L is the author of the Bestselling "A Drowned Kingdom" Saga chronicles. He is also a co-host of PAGE CHEWING, a regular booktube event that features creatives from the broader writing community, including authors, bloggers, editors, agents, and more.

In the 67th episode of The HYBRID Author Podcast host Joanne Morrell, author of children's and young adult fiction and short non fiction for authors, chats to P.L on his article from the Jericho Writers 'Everything You Need to Know About Hybrid Publishing'.

We discuss:

the various types of hybrid publishing options available to authors internationally
royalties
author advances and
P.L shares his do's and don'ts when publishing.

https://www.plstuart.com/

https://jerichowriters.com/everything-you-need-to-know-about-hybrid-publishing/

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fT-RZyKSJww

Hardie Grant Publisher Emily Hart on Non-Fiction and Gaps in The Market

Joanne — Thu, 16 Mar 2023 03:25:43 +0000

Emily Hart is a publisher at Hardie Grant Books in Melbourne, where she commissions non-fiction books of all kinds and co-convenes the Spark Prize for narrative non-fiction.

In the 66th episode of the HYBRID Author Podcast host Joanne Morrell, author of children's and young adult fiction and short non-fiction for authors, chats to Emily about:

the non-fiction publishing industry
Jasper Peach's first non-fiction book through the design choices, editorial team, structure and format
gaps in the market
comparison title ideas for aspiring authors submitting their work and
the Spark Prize.

https://www.hardiegrant.com/au

You'll Make a Wonderful Parent, Advice and Encouragement for Rainbow Families of All Kinds with Jasper Peach

Joanne — Thu, 09 Mar 2023 08:36:02 +0000

Jasper Peach is a trans, non-binary and disabled writer and editor. They are passionate about equitable access and inclusion, focused around the dismantling of misplaced shame via storytelling. Their first book is a collection of advice and encouragement for new and prospective queer parents published by Hardie Grant.

In the 65th episode of the HYBRID Author Podcast host Joanne Morrell, author of children's and young adult fiction and short non fiction for authors chats to Jasper about:

their book and how their own experiences of parenthood shaped the contents
how understanding, owning and communicating your identity, not only to yourself, but to the world and your children can make you a better parent and
their advice for emerging writers trying to find their voice in their writing.

https://twitter.com/JasperPeachSays?ref_src=twsrc%5Egoogle%7Ctwcamp%5Eserp%7Ctwgr%5Eauthor

Therese Tarlington SWAP Marketing Without Money

Joanne — Thu, 02 Mar 2023 07:38:15 +0000

Using the power of marketing partnerships to grow, Therese Tarlinton created a start-up that flourished into a business in five countries manufacturing for Jeep, Sesame Street and United Colors of Benetton.

Therese is a passionate advocate of small business owners collaborating on marketing, so much so, she wrote the book on how to do it. SWAP! Marketing without Money flew into the Amazon #1 Best Seller in Small Business spot and has ignited a movement where brands are gaining visibility, industry credibility and improved profitability by working together.

In the 64th episode of the HYBRID Author podcast host Joanne Morrell, author of children's and young adult fiction and short non fiction for authors, chats to Therese:

about the premise and fruition of the book
how authors can effectively market their author business without money and
the step-by-step process for individuals to find the right companies to form partnerships with.

https://www.theresetarlinton.com/work-with-therese-tarlinton

Award Winning Children's and Young Adult Author Pip Harry on HYBRID Writing Styles

Joanne — Fri, 24 Feb 2023 07:45:00 +0000

Pip Harry is an Australian children’s author and journalist. Her middle grade novel, The Little Wave, won the CBCA 2020 Book of the Year Award and the Speech Pathology Australia Book of the Year.

Her young adult novels include I’ll Tell You Mine, Head of the River, Because of You and Are You There, Buddha? a CBCA Notable and shortlisted for the 2022 NSW Premier's Literary Awards.

In the 63rd episode of the HYBRID Author Podcast host Joanne Morrell, author of children's and young adult fiction and short non fiction for authors, chats to Pip on:

HYBRID writing and genre styles
agents, publishing and much more.

https://www.pipharry.com/

Rachael Johns on The Romance Writers of Australia (RWA)

Joanne — Fri, 17 Feb 2023 09:07:00 +0000

Women’s fiction and rural romance writer Rachael Johns is the Vice President of the Romance Writers of Australia (RWA) and attributes the organisation and members to much of her success to date. An enthusiastic advocate for the romance genre, Rachael shares RWA’s passion to help encourage aspiring, emerging and established authors in their careers, while also champing on the genre and the rest of the book industry!

In the 62nd episode of The HYBRID Author podcast host Joanne Morrell, author of children’s and young adult fiction and short non fiction for authors, chats to Rachael about:

RWA
women’s fiction and romance readership, the craft, tropes of writing romance
hybrid authorship and so much more.

https://www.rachaeljohns.com/

Natalie Normann on 'Writing Norwegian and Contemporary Romance'

Joanne — Fri, 10 Feb 2023 07:39:00 +0000

From an isolated fishing village in Norway, one you can only get to by boat, Natalie Normann, author of 69+ books, shares her wonderful stories with the world.

In the 61st episode of the HYBRID Author podcast host Joanne Morrell author of children's and young adult fiction and short non fiction for authors chats to Natalie about writing, publishing and rapid releasing Norweigan romance and contemporary English books, as well as learning her tips for authors looking to write in the romance genre.

https://www.goodreads.com/author/list/6478935.Natalie_Normann

5 Tips to Help you Prepare Your Print Book for Production Through Ingram Spark With Joanne Morrell

Joanne — Fri, 03 Feb 2023 14:29:00 +0000

60 episodes celebrates all things print publishing!

Listen in as host Joanne Morrell, author of children's and young adult fiction and short non fiction for authors, shares her top 5 tips in preparing your book for print production via Ingram Spark.

www.hybridauthor.com.au/books

joanne@hybridauthor.com.au

https://www.ingramspark.com/

https://www.smh.com.au/culture/art-and-design/australian-authors-to-receive-compensation-for-e-book-loans-for-first-time-20230127-p5cfxk.html

https://www.asauthors.org/news/asa-applauds-key-wins-for-writers-in-national-cultural-policy

How The Marketing Power of a Bestseller Will Take You From a Best-kept Secret to a go-to Expert' With Steve Kidd

Joanne — Fri, 27 Jan 2023 01:35:00 +0000

Steve Kidd is a best-selling self-published author, entrepreneur, business coach and radio show host. His mission is to assist and support individuals who are passionate about their work and want to become successful authors and bestsellers.

In the 59th episode of the HYBRID Author podcast host Joanne Morrell, author of children's and young adult fiction and short non ficton for authors, chats to Steve on:

what constitutes a bestseller
how authors can actively become a best seller
how authors can use bestseller status to market their books to become a 'go-to' expert as well as
hybrid publishing and much more.

http://wehelpyouthrive.com/

https://www.eventbrite.com.au/e/freelance-writing-quick-tips-for-fast-success-webinar-tickets-519654690167?aff=ebdssbdestsearch

An Ly-Tampere on 'Setting Up a Writing Coaching Business to Sustain Your Creative Dream as a Writer'

Joanne — Fri, 20 Jan 2023 08:43:00 +0000

An Ly-Tampere is a trained writing and business coach helping other writing coaches get more clients. She herself is a writer and a business owner for the last 7 years, and has 10 years prior experience as a business consultant in the public and private sectors.

In the 58th episode of the HYBRID Author podcast host Joanne Morrell author of children's and young adult fiction and short non fiction for authors chats to An on:

the definition of a writing coach and what writers can expect when working with one
what the criteria is to become a writing coach and how individuals can go about meeting this.

www.anlytampere.com

https://anlytampere.com/unrealistic_goals/

'Plan Your Books The Way You Think' with Plottr's Education Lead Troy Lambert

Joanne — Thu, 12 Jan 2023 05:38:00 +0000

Plottr is a new visual planning software tool for writers looking to outline their books faster, organise smarter, and turbocharge their productivity.

In the 57th episode of the HYBRID Author Podcast host Joanne Morrell author of children's and young adult fiction and short non fiction for authors, chats to the Plottr team's Education Lead Troy Lambert on:

what Plottr is and how it benefits author practice and process
how Plottr functions differently from other writing software out there (such as Scrivner) and
Troy shares his tips for authors getting started using Plottr as part of their writing practice.

https://plottr.com/

https://troylambertwrites.com/

Award Winning Children's and Young Adult Author Dianne Wolfer on 'Writing Across Genres'

Joanne — Thu, 29 Dec 2022 06:39:00 +0000

Dianne Wolfer is an award-winning author of 23 books for children and teenagers. She has a teaching background and presents author talks and workshops at schools and festivals across Australia and internationally. Dianne is a passionate advocate for children’s literature in Australia and currently serves as the Remote Regions Coordinator for SCBWI Australia West.

In the 56th episode of the HYBRID Author Podcast host Joanne Morrell, author of children's and young adult fiction and short non fiction for authors, chats to Dianne about:

writing across genres
the publishing industry and working with different publishing houses
commissioned works and hybrid authorship and
Dianne shares her tips for authors looking to write in multiple areas.

https://diannewolfer.com

Lessons Learned in 2022 and What's to be in 2023

Joanne — Thu, 29 Dec 2022 06:32:00 +0000

Join Joanne Morrell for the final episode of the HYBRID Author podcast in 2022!

Joanne reflects and chats on:

lessons learned
money earned and
words and focus for me in 2023

www.hybridauthor.com.au

Merry Christmas Mashup of 2022 End of Year Guests

Joanne — Fri, 23 Dec 2022 03:14:00 +0000

Snippets from 2022 past guests who have appeared on the podcast since September:

Episode 39

Mariam El Houli On Why The Best Time to Chase Your Dreams is Right now

Episode 40

So You Want to be a Writer 'How to Get Started While You Still Have a Day Job' With Allison Tait

Episode 41

Amy Calautti on 'How to Hire an Illustrator'

Episode 42

Helen Scheuerer on 'How to Write a Successful Series'

Episode 43

The Reluctant Book Marketer Jody J Sperling

Episode 44

Digital Lending Rights (DLR) Payments for Authors Wtih Joanne Morrell

Episode 45

Valerie Khoo on Building the Creative Business of Your Dreams

Episode 46

Pauline Yates on 'Writing Horror'

Episode 47

Peter Quarry on 'Making Peace With the Past and Re-energeising for the Future'

Episode 49

Steven Herrick on Being a HYBRID Author of Cycling Travel Books for Adults and Children's and Young Adult Fiction

Episode 50

'Your Author Business Plan' With Joanna Penn

Episode 51

Katie Montinaro on 'Writing Christmas Themed Rom Com'

Episode 52

Annual Planning for Creatives With Orna Ross

Episode 53

Making Decisions to Make Things Happen with Robyne Young

https://thorncreative.com.au/

Making Decisions to Make Things Happen With Robyne Young

Joanne — Fri, 16 Dec 2022 13:50:00 +0000

Robyne Young is a writer, author, lecturer and ex newspaper and T.V. Journalist. In the 53rd episode of the HYBRID Author podcast host Joanne Morrell, author of children's and young adult fiction and short non fiction for authors reflects with Robyne on making decisions to make things happpen on both a personal and professional level.

https://robyneyoung.com.au/

Annual Planning for Creatives with Orna Ross

Joanne — Fri, 09 Dec 2022 04:22:00 +0000

Orna Ross is an Irish historical novelist, poet and director of the Alliance of Independent Authors (ALLI).

In the 52nd episode of the HYBRID Author Podcast host Joanne Morrell, author of children's and young adult fiction and short non fiction for authors chats to Orna about Annual Planning for Creatives:

what’s involved in annual planning
why its important and
how creatives can go about getting further educated on annual planning practices working directly with Orna and an accountability group.

SelfPublishingAdvice.org/AnnualPlanning — Annual Session

Patreon.com/ornaross — Monthly Workshops

And ALLi is at: AllianceIndependentAuthors.org

Katie Montinaro on Writing a 'Christmas-themed Rom Com'

Joanne — Fri, 02 Dec 2022 05:03:00 +0000

Katie Montinaro is a Melbourne-based writer, teacher and author of Christmas-themed rom com a 'Holly Jolly Christmas and YA fiction 'The Girl in The Sunflower Dress'.

In the 51st episode of The HYBRID Author Podcast host Joanne Morrell, author of children's and YA fiction and short non fiction for authors chats to Katie on:

her books and hybrid authorship experience
social media and marketing strategy for independent authors
supporting local and loving your bookshop
as well as her tips for writing Christmas-themed rom com and much more!

https://www.katiemontinaro.com/

https://www.farrells.com.au/

'Your Author Business Plan' with Joanna Penn

Joanne — Fri, 25 Nov 2022 07:21:00 +0000

To celebrate 50 episodes of the HYBRID Author Podcast, we have a very, very special guest!

Joanna Penn writes non-fiction for authors and is an award-nominated, New York Times and USA Today bestselling thriller author as J.F.Penn. She’s a creative entrepreneur and award-winning podcaster of the Creative Penn podcast, for over a decade now.

Joanna chats to us about her book 'Your Author Business Plan' and shares:

how important business plans are for authors
what you should include in one when starting out
the difference between your author plan and author dreams and
tips for authors writing their first business plan and much, much more.

https://www.thecreativepenn.com/author-business-plan/

Steven Herrick on Being a HYBRID Author of Cycling Travel Books for Adults and Children's and Young Adult Fiction

Joanne — Fri, 18 Nov 2022 09:21:00 +0000

Steven Herrick is the author of twenty-six books for children and young adults and ten cycling travel ebooks. His books have won the WA Premier’s Literary Awards, twice won the NSW Premier’s Literary awards; and been shortlisted for the Children’s Book Council Book of the Year Award on ten occasions. He’s also won the prestigious German Youth Literature award for his verse-novel ‘by the river’ (in translation).

In the 49th episode of The HYBRID Author Podcast host Joanne Morrell, author of children's and young adult fiction and short non fiction for authors chats to Steven about:

experimenting going hybrid
exploring the process of being a self published author as well as
his books and tips for authors looking to go hybrid.

http://www.stevenherrick.com.au/

An Almost Merry Christmas Mash up of 2022 Guests

Joanne — Fri, 11 Nov 2022 13:05:00 +0000

Snippets from 2022 past guests who have appeared on the podcast since July:

Episode 31

Children's Author Sian Turner on Juggling Writing and Kids

Episode 32

The Scriptpreneur Tammy Gross on Converting an Award Winning Screenplay into a Best Selling Novel

Episode 33

Sci fi and Fantasy Fiction Author Phil Asmundson on 'Writing Character Perspective'

Episode 34

The Role of a Public Librarian and How the Library System Works in Australia with Emily Paull

Episode 35

Author Fears and How to Overcome Them With Joanne Morrell

Episode 36

Adult and Children's Author Michelle 'Ellie' Royce on 'Going HYBRID'

Episode 37

How to Self Publish Junior Fiction with Award Winning Indie Author Kristy Nita Brown

Episode 38

Children's Author Oliver Phommavanh on 'Writing Funny'

Episode 39

Speaking at Writers Festivals with Award Winning Children's Picture and Chapter Book Author and Illustrator Kylie Howarth

Peter Quarry on 'Making Peace With the Past and Re-energising for the Future'

Joanne — Fri, 04 Nov 2022 13:46:00 +0000

Peter Quarry is a multi-award-winning psychologist, whose 1000+ video-based training programs are used by companies, universities and organisations in over 20 countries. He was ‘Resident Psychologist’ on Good Morning Australia for seven years and is a sought-after public speaker.

To date, Peter’s putting himself on the couch and talking about his debut release: If I Were You; a fascinating and original book where Peter skilfully deconstructs his own life, showing how you too can unpack and reboot yours.

In the 36th episode of the HYBRID Author podcast host Joanne Morrell, author of children's and young adult fiction and short non fiction for authors chats to Peter on:

the benefits of reflective writing which can lead to making peace with your past as well as re-energising and being positive about the future
Peter’s debut author adventure and
his marketing tips for authors.

https://www.peterquarry.com/

Pauline Yates on 'Writing Horror'

Joanne — Fri, 28 Oct 2022 12:07:00 +0000

Pauline Yates is an Australian author of horror and dark speculative fiction. She’s an Australian Shadows Awards Short Fiction Finalist, Australian Horror Writers Association (AHWA) Short Story Winner, and is translated with Riflessi di Luce Lunare (RiLL), in Italy.

In the 46th episode of the HYBRID Author podcast host Joanne Morrell, author of children's and young adult fiction and short non fiction for authors chats to Pauline on:

her author adventure in writing horror
what scenes and conventions readers expect when reading horror
the variant's from 80s horror to now and
Pauline provides a plethora of tips to authors looking to get started writing in the horror genre.

https://paulineyates.com/

https://australasianhorror.com/australian-shadows-awards/

https://australasianhorror.com/

https://www.alanbaxteronline.com/

Valerie Khoo on Building the Creative Business of Your Dreams

Joanne — Fri, 21 Oct 2022 01:53:00 +0000

Valerie Khoo is a writer, artist and CEO of the Australian Writers Centre and host of The So You Want to be a Writer Podcast.

In episode 45 of The HYBRID Author Podcast host Joanne Morrell, author of children's and young adult fiction and short non fiction for authors, chats to Valerie about her lessons learned from years of experience running various creative businesses, as well as her tips to individuals making their mark in the creative industries.

https://valeriekhoo.com/

https://www.writerscentre.com.au/

Digital Lending Right (DLR) Payments for Authors With Joanne Morrell

Joanne — Fri, 14 Oct 2022 10:54:00 +0000

Do you have audio and eBook formats of your work?

Are these digital files available for loan in public lending libraries?

Do you currently receive any compensation on library users borrowing the digital copies of your books?

Get the downlow on Digital Lending Rights (DLR) with The HYBRID Author podcast host Joanne Morrell, author of children's and young adult fiction and short non fiction for authors.

Listen in as Joanne shares

what DLR payments are
the DLR situation so far and
how authors can help the cause and start collecting.

https://www.buymeacoffee.com/TheHYBRIDAuthor

https://www.asauthors.org/campaigns/digital-lending-right/digital-lending-right

You can also write to your local MP to request the expansion of the lending right schemes. You can use our sample letter here

https://www.janefriedman.com/what-do-authors-earn-from-digital-lending-at-libraries/

https://www.theage.com.au/culture/books/it-buys-me-writing-time-authors-call-for-library-ebook-compensation-20211118-p59a1s.html

https://www.asauthors.org/news/asa-warns-government-sustainability-of-australian-writing-careers-under-threat

https://www.asauthors.org/news/asa-calls-for-dlr-at-public-hearing-for-federal-inquiry

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JDry7TfR0yw

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7RVrTg3eB-A

https://www.arts.gov.au/sites/default/files/submissions/ncp1035-australian-society-of-authors.pdf

The Reluctant Book Marketer Jody J Sperling

Joanne — Fri, 07 Oct 2022 01:47:00 +0000

From higher education, decades in marketing and sales, and years of embarrassing failure, Jody J Sperling turned obscurity into a seven-figure success story. He's an emerging author and the host and creator of The Reluctant Book Marketer podcast, teaching writers how they can go from scraping by as a bottom-feeding author to a bestseller.

In the 43rd episode of The HYBRID Author podcast host Joanne Morrell author of children's and young adult fiction and short non fiction for authors talks to Jody about:

what marketing is
the importance and value of a marketing mindset
who authors should be marketing to and
the best marketing tips gained over a podcast's lifetime.

https://open.spotify.com/show/1GUuf1Ru8hkZIEAQLd9DA1

https://www.buymeacoffee.com/TheHYBRIDAuthor

Helen Scheuerer on How to Write a Successful Series

Joanne — Thu, 29 Sep 2022 14:37:00 +0000

Helen Scheuerer is the fantasy author of bestselling trilogies, The Orameer Chronicles and the Curse of the Cyren Queen quartet.

In the 42nd episode of the HYBRID Author podcast host Joanne Morrell, author of children's and young adult fiction and short non fiction for authors chats to Helen about her new debut nonfiction book, How To Write A Successful Series.

Listen in as Helen shares:

the 'real' reasons authors should write in a series
what some of the common mistakes authors make writing in a series and
her tips for authors looking to get started writing in a series.

https://helenscheuerer.com

https://www.buymeacoffee.com/TheHYBRIDAuthor

Amy Calautti on 'How to Hire an Illustrator'

Joanne — Fri, 23 Sep 2022 10:32:00 +0000

How do I go about hiring an illustrator for my children’s book?

Amy Calautti is an in-demand children’s picture book illustrator, completing 14 picture books (and counting) since taking on her first contract in 2019.

In the 41st episode of the HYBRID Author podcast host Joanne Morrell, author of short non fiction for authors and children’s and young adult fiction, chats to Amy about:

how independent authors can hire the services of a professional illustrator
what the working processes are like between author and illustrator
what aspects an author can expect an illustrator to consider when quoting for a job and
Amy shares her tips for authors starting out on their illustrator sourcing adventure

https://www.instagram.com/amygorgeousness/?hl=en

https://amygorgeousness2.wixsite.com/amyillustrates

https://www.buymeacoffee.com/TheHYBRIDAuthor

So You Want to be a Writer How to Get Started While You Still Have a Day Job with Allison Tait

Joanne — Fri, 16 Sep 2022 05:01:00 +0000

Allison Tait (A.L. Tait) is an internationally published bestselling author, multi-genre writer, teacher, speaker and podcaster. Former co-host of The Australian Writer's Centre (AWC) podcast 'So You Want to be a Writer' with Valerie Khoo, Allison and Valerie collated the thoughts and tips of past guests of the podcast (as well as their own experiences) to co-author the So You Want to be a Writer: How to Get Started While You Still Have a Day Job book.

In the 40th episode of the HYBRID Author Podcast, host Joanne Morrell, author of children's and young adult fiction and short non-fiction for authors interviews Allison about the book, how authors can make the most of their writing time around other commitments, being kind to your writing self and much more.

Up to listen now folks and as always please leave me a wee review if you found the episode helpful!

https://allisontait.com

https://www.writerscentre.com.au

https://www.buymeacoffee.com/TheHYBRIDAuthor

Mariam El Houli On Why The Best Time to Chase your Dreams is Right Now

Joanne — Fri, 09 Sep 2022 15:05:00 +0000

With a bachelor of literature and composition from Griffith University, Mariam wrote her breakout novel, The Olive Tree, many years before publishing it due to the discouragement of those around her.

A few months before the COVID-19 pandemic hit, mother of 5, Mariam faced personal and professional struggles which lead to a major realisation: in a COVID-19 world, nothing is guaranteed, and you never know what is going to happen.

'We are in charge of our own reality and happiness– no one else.'

During this time, Mariam's mind traveled back to The Olive Tree... deciding it no longer mattered what anyone else thought or said; she was going to try to make her dream a reality, embrace her love of writing, and share her story with the world! With a passion for storytelling and writing, as an author and a business coach, Mariam tackles all the complex issues nobody talks about, hoping to change the world one book at a time, starting with her debut YA novel: a love letter to the people of Palestine, and a heart wrenching look at issues of humanity.

https://www.instagram.com/mariam.elhouli/

https://www.buymeacoffee.com/TheHYBRIDAuthor

Speaking at Writers Festivals with Award Winning Children's Author and Illustrator Kylie Howarth

Joanne — Fri, 02 Sep 2022 06:48:00 +0000

Kylie Howarth is an award-winning internationally published children’s book author and illustrator from Perth, Western Australia. She has appeared at Scribblers Festival, The Literature Centre Storytellers Festival, Margaret River's Readers and Writers Festival, Awesome Arts Festival and the Asian Festival of Children's Content in Singapore.

In the 38th episode of the HYBRID Author podcast host Joanne Morrell, author of children's and young adult fiction and short non fiction for authors, chats to Kylie on what to expect and how to get started speaking at writers festivals, as well as:

the various types of festivals out there
if festivals are invitation to authors only
what you provide and what festivals provide for you
what authors should take into consideration when quoting to appear at festivals
her tips for authors starting out speaking at festivals
time slots, workshops and much much more.

https://www.kyliehowarth.com

https://www.kyliehowarth.com/events/2022/9/4/koalas-stole-my-undies-book-launch-with-kylie-howarth

https://www.kyliehowarth.com/events/https/wwwscribblersfestivalcomau/family-program-2022

https://www.buymeacoffee.com/TheHYBRIDAuthor

Children's Author Oliver Phommavanh on 'Writing Funny'

Joanne — Fri, 26 Aug 2022 10:47:00 +0000

Oliver Phommavanh loves to make people laugh, whether it’s on the page writing humour for kids or on stage as a stand-up comedian.

In the 37th episode of the HYBRID Author podcast host Joanne Morrell, author of children's and young adult fiction and short non fiction for authors chats to Oliver about:

whether you need to be naturally funny to 'write funny'
what the various types of humour (in writing) are and
what his tips are for authors looking to include humour in their work.

https://www.gofundme.com/f/dennis-jungs-fight-with-cancer?utm_campaign=p_cp+share-sheet&utm_medium=copy_link_all&utm_source=customer

https://www.oliverwriter.com

https://www.youtube.com/results?search_query=oliver+phommavanh

https://assets-global.website-files.com/5f928a6a013f5e35c39b62bb/62aae603be4d1d84f643fad1_FamilyPprograme_2022_final.pdf

https://www.scribblersfestival.com.au/creative-stars

How to Self Publish Junior Fiction with Award Winning Indie Author Kristy Nita Brown

Joanne — Fri, 19 Aug 2022 07:28:00 +0000

Kristy Nita Brown is an award winning Indie published author of Junior Fiction. Her debut novel Looking For Lily scored second place in the CYA conference’s Aspiring Chapter Book for Younger Readers category.

A LOT of laughs were had in the 36th episode of the HYBRID Author podcast when host Joanne Morrell, author of children's and young adult fiction and short non fiction for authors interviewed Kristy on 'How to Self Publish a Junior Fiction Novel'.

Listen in as Kristy, openly and honestly, shares her self publishing experience on learning how to write chapters books, as well as the editing, printing and marketing processes.

https://kristynitabrown.com

https://www.gofundme.com/f/dennis-jungs-fight-with-cancer?utm_campaign=p_cp+share-sheet&utm_medium=copy_link_all&utm_source=customer

Adult and Children's Author Michelle 'Ellie' Royce on 'Going HYBRID'

Joanne — Fri, 12 Aug 2022 13:36:00 +0000

Michelle 'Ellie' Royce is an internationally published, award winning author of books for adults and children.

As "Ellie Royce" Michelle writes quirky and heartfelt middle grade and YA fiction as well as visionary, unique picture books that spark ideas, empathy and new ways of looking at the world for readers of all ages. After a long career in traditional publishing, Ellie has taken the plunge and independently published her new Junior Fiction series Avery's Hat-tastic Adventures.

In the 35th episode of the HYBRID Author Podcast host Joanne Morrell, author of children's and young adult fiction and short non fiction for authors chats to Ellie about her experience on 'Going HYBRID'. Listen in as Ellie shares tips for authors looking to have a HYBRID Author career but are still teetering on the edge.

https://www.weareallmadeofstories.com

https://www.buymeacoffee.com/TheHYBRIDAuthor

The Role of a Public Librarian and How The Library System Works in Australia with Emily Paull

Joanne — Fri, 05 Aug 2022 08:04:00 +0000

Emily Paull is a former bookseller turned passionate librarian from Perth, Western Australia. She writes short stories and historical fiction, and was highly commended in the 2021 Fogarty Literary Award for her historical fiction manuscript, The Good Daughter. Her debut collection of short stories, Well-Behaved Women was also published by Margaret River Press in 2019.

In the 34th episode of The HYBRID Author Podcast host Joanne Morrell, author of children's and young adult fiction and short non fiction for authors chats with Emily about the role of a public librarian and how the library system works in Australia.

Emily shares her expertise on:

what book weeding is
ELR, PLR and DLR payments
hosting paid author events at libraries
forging relationships with your local librarian
her author adventure and much more.

http://www.emilypaull.com

https://www.buymeacoffee.com/TheHYBRIDAuthor

Sci Fi and Fantasy Author Phil Asmundson on 'Writing Character Perspective'

Joanne — Fri, 29 Jul 2022 01:43:00 +0000

Whilst researching Southwest myths, Phil Asmundson discovered the Tuar Tums' legend, and brought them to life in his debut trilogy. He's always had a passion for science and is fond of saying, "True science is indistinguishable from magic."

In the 33rd episode of The HYBRID Author Podcast, host Joanne Morrell, author of children's and young adult fiction and short non fiction for authors interviews Phil on 'writing character perspective'.

Phil shares

the research and elements which make up his fascinating trilogy
how he wrote from a 16 year old girl’s perspective being an older male
his tips for authors looking to write from character perspectives other than their own and
tells all on his unique self-published journey and much more.

https://www.amazon.com/Phil-Asmundson/e/B08XN4JW6W%3Fref=dbs_a_mng_rwt_scns_share

https://www.asauthors.org/services/literary-speed-dating

https://www.buymeacoffee.com/TheHYBRIDAuthor

The Scriptpreneur Tammy Gross on Converting an Award Winning Screen Play into a Best Selling Novel

Joanne — Fri, 22 Jul 2022 03:22:00 +0000

Tammy Gross is an optioned, award-winning, indie-produced screenwriter, as well as the author of The Treasure Galleons, which she converted from an award-winning screenplay into a number 1 bestselling novel.

Tammy, known as the Scriptpreneur, is the founder of WOW Hollywood, where she helps authors, speakers, coaches and screenwriters turn their dream story into a Hollywood movie. Her other script-turned-novel, Evangelina, also a bestseller, is slated for 2022 production under the direction of an A-List TV producer.

In the 32nd episode of The HYBRID Author Podcast, host Joanne Morrell, author of children's and young adult fiction and short non fiction for authors talks to Tammy about her:

incredibly adventurous story of chasing pirates, and being robbed by some, to get her start into the screenplay and fiction writing worlds
dos and don’ts for authors looking to adapt their work into screenplays and novels or vice versa as well as
marketing tips for self published authors.

https://www.scriptpreneur.com

https://www.buymeacoffee.com/TheHYBRIDAuthor

Children's Author Sian Turner on Juggling Writing and Kids

Joanne — Fri, 15 Jul 2022 08:48:00 +0000

You have a day job. You're a parent. You have lots of commitments as well as chipping away at building an author career.

How do you juggle all of the above, stay sane, release the parent/creator guilt and be productive and present for all?

In the 31st episode of The HYBRID Author Podcast, host Joanne Morrell, author of children's and young adult fiction and short non fiction for authors interviews Sian Turner.

Author of children's fiction and mother of 3, Sian shares her experience on how:

her books and babies have complimented one another over the years
challenges of being a writer whilst parenting and
her tips on juggling writing and other commitments as well as talking about her work and publishing journey.

https://www.sianturnerbooks.com

https://www.buymeacoffee.com/TheHYBRIDAuthor

2022 Mid Year Mash up

Joanne — Fri, 08 Jul 2022 09:34:00 +0000

We've reached 30 episodes!

To celebrate here's a mid year mash up of snippets from all the guests who have appeared on the podcast since January this year:

Episode 16

Co-creating Picture Books with Family with Disha Patwardhan and Paridhi P Apte.

Episode 17

All The Ways to Make an Author Income with Frané Lessac

Episode 18

Educational and Public Lending Rights (ELR) and (PLR) with Joanne Morrell

Episode 19

Co-writing Middle Grade Fantasy Fiction with Denis Knight and Cristy Burne

Episode 20

What Publishing Looks like to Bad Apple Press in 2022

Episode 21

Lorraine Horsley 'On Writing Non Fiction'

Episode 22

Author Mentorships wiuth Jodie Spiteri-James from The Australian Society of Authors

Episode 23

How to Start Getting Book Reviews with Children's Author Sharon Giltrow

Episode 24

All Things Publishing in 2022 with Publishing Powerhouse Karen Mc Dermott

Episode 25

Multiple Award Winning Young Adult Author Holden Sheppard on Social Media for Authors

Episode 26

Monique Mulligan on The Publishing Collective

Episode 27

Young Adult Fiction Author Sarah Epstein on Writing Suspense and Hybrid Authorship

Episode 28

Western Australian Premier's Book Award Winner for Writing for Children Shirley Marr On 'Character Voice'

www.hybridauthor.com.au

How to be an Author The Business of Being a Writer in Australia with Author, Academic and Fremantle Press Publisher Georgia Richter

Joanne — Fri, 01 Jul 2022 02:11:00 +0000

Today’s esteemed guest is author, academic and Fremantle Press Publisher Georgia Richter who talks about her and Deborah Hun’s publication ‘How to be an Author The Business of Being a Writer in Australia'.

In the 29th episode of The HYBRID Author Podcast host Joanne Morrell, author of children's and young adult fiction and short non fiction for authors interviews Georgia on:

successful author careers
why building an author brand is important
whether authors should run their author business with a bookseller’s mindset and
how authors might juggle the writing life alongside family, the day job and other commitments.

www.buymeacoffee.com/TheHYBRIDAuthor.com

https://fremantlepress.com.au/books/how-to-be-an-author/

https://www.facebook.com/groups/howtobeanauthorinaustralia

https://fremantlepress.com.au/podcast/

Western Australian Premier's Book Award Winner for Writing for Children Shirley Marr On 'Character Voice'

Joanne — Fri, 24 Jun 2022 11:28:00 +0000

Young adult and children's author Shirley Marr took out the 2022 Western Australian Premier’s Book Award prize for writing for children with her middle grade magic realism novel ‘A Glass House of Stars’.

In the 28th episode of The HYBRID Author Podcast Joanne Morrell author of children's and young adult fiction and short non fiction for authors interviews Shirley, on:

how she came to write such compelling character voices and how she managed to keep those voices represented throughout the pages of her book
why she choose to write in second person point of view and what she wanted to achieve through using this character style
How the author voice differs from the character voice
As well as sharing her tips for authors looking to create and capture their characters’ voices on the page and more.

https://www.shirleymarr.net

Young Adult Fiction Author Sarah Epstein on Writing Suspense and Hybrid Authorship

Joanne — Fri, 10 Jun 2022 11:01:00 +0000

This was one of the most inspiring conversations I have been fortunate enough to have to date.

In the 27th Episode of the HYBRID Author podcast, young adult fiction author Sarah Epstein generously shares her wealth of expertise on

the books from her childhood which shaped her career
writing suspense
balancing self doubt with self belief
hybrid authorship and so much more.

https://sarahepsteinbooks.com

Monique Mulligan on The Publishing Collective

Joanne — Fri, 27 May 2022 08:27:00 +0000

Pilyara Press is the Publishing Collective behind Monique Mulligan's debut novel 'Wherever You Go' and her second novel 'Wildflower'.

Monique is an author, interviewer, and founder of the Stories on Stage program in Perth Western Australia as well as a former journalist, news editor and publisher.

In the 26th episode of the HYBRID Author Podcast host Joanne Morrell, children’s and young adult fiction writer and author of short non fiction for authors, interviews Monique on her Publishing Collective experience, discussing:

what the Publishing Collective model is
the advantages and disadvantages of publishing this way and
tips for authors looking to set up their own Publishing Collective.

https://moniquemulligan.com

Award Winning Young Adult Author Holden Sheppard On Social Media for Authors

Joanne — Fri, 13 May 2022 06:18:00 +0000

Holden Sheppard is a multiple award winning Young Adult author and social media influencer. In the 25th episode of The HYBRID Author Podcast, host Joanne Morrell, children’s and young adult fiction writer and short non fiction for authors, interviews Holden about social media for authors.

Listen in as Holden shares:

how social media has helped his author career
whether authors in 2022 need to have a social media presence to be successful
how he posts strategically and deals with negative backlash and
Holden shares his tips/dos and don’ts for authors looking to get started on social.

https://www.holdensheppard.com

https://www.facebook.com/HoldenSheppardAuthor/

https://twitter.com/V8Sheppard

https://www.instagram.com/holdensheppard/

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCYuIPD29IFKo5lBhgEvKAlw

All Things Publishing in 2022 with Publishing Powerhouse Karen Mc Dermott

Joanne — Fri, 29 Apr 2022 06:59:00 +0000

Karen Mc Dermott is the founder of Serenity Press, MMH Press, KMD Books, and the Everything Publishing Academy. She is an award-winning entrepreneur, multi-genre author of over 40 books, mentor, forbes writer, TEDx speaker and a proud mum of 6. She’s also an advanced Law of Attraction practitioner who teaches people how to attract anything they want into their lives and writes about her success principles as K P weaver.

In the 24th episode of The HYBRID Author Podcast, host Joanne Morrell, children's and young adult fiction writer and author of short non fiction for authors, interviews Karen on all things publishing.

Listen in as Karen shares her:

secrets to success in the publishing industry
advice to authors who want to be their own publisher
tips for authors running their own business as well as
how she juggles doing it all as a mother of 6.

https://serenitypress.org/about/

https://www.kmdbooks.com

https://www.mmhpress.com

How to Start Getting Book Reviews with Children's Author Sharon Giltrow

Joanne — Fri, 15 Apr 2022 04:20:00 +0000

You've written your first book (or books), how do you go about getting reviews for your work and why are they important?

In the 23rd episode of The HYBRID Author Podcast, host Joanne Morrell, children’s and young adult fiction writer and short non fiction for authors, interviews picture book author Sharon Giltrow on:

how traditional representation helps authors score reviews for their books
What a good book review consists of and
how to deal with negative reviews.

Listen in as Sharon shares her tips and tricks on how to score reviews independently.

https://www.sharongiltrowauthor.com

Author Mentorships with Jodie Spiteri-James from The Australian Society of Authors

Joanne — Fri, 01 Apr 2022 12:38:00 +0000

Jodie Spiteri-James has worked in Publishing in both fiction and non-fiction for over 25 years as a Sales Director and Managing Director. After becoming a coach and specialising in Professional Development, Jodie trained speakers by assisting them to hone their message and become a powerful voice. Jodie is now pleased her two worlds of publishing and professional development have collided at the Australian Society of Authors.

In the 22nd episode of the HYBRID Author Podcast, host Joanne Morrell, children’s and young adult fiction writer and short non fiction for authors, interviews Jodie on:

what type of mentorships the ASA offer
who the professionals are that conduct these mentorships
what qualities the ASA look for in their recipients
how these mentorships help further an author’s career and at what stage an author should apply for them, as well as sharing general author mentorship tips, overall.

We also discuss what countries have a Society of Authors, so you can look out for these mentorship opportunities in your place of origin, should you be listening outside of Australia.

Lorraine Horsley on 'Writing Non Fiction'

Joanne — Fri, 18 Mar 2022 03:55:00 +0000

After 20 years writing, submitting and being rejected for her books, children's and adult story writer Lorraine Horsley can now share her traditional publishing author adventure, tips on how to write engaging non fiction as well as giving generous advice to aspiring authors.

Listen in as host Joanne Morrell, children's and young adult fiction writer and short non fiction for authors, interviews Lorraine on all aspects of writing non fiction.

Lorraine has a Bachelor of Arts in English, an Associate Degree in Training and Development, a Masters of Arts in Professional Writing and Literature and is about to embark on another education journey with a Higher Degree by Research.

https://blog.feedspot.com/australian_book_and_writing_podcasts/

https://www.lorrainehorsley.com/bookshop

What Publishing Looks Like to Bad Apple Press in 2022

Joanne — Sat, 05 Mar 2022 06:38:00 +0000

How do Bad Apple Press keep up to date with what's happening in the publishing industry and how do they determine book trends for the year?

What does a publishing schedule look like for Bad Apple in 2022 and how do they decide publishing schedules for the years to come?

These are just some of the questions Bad Apple Press, an Independent Publisher of great 'everyday' Australian memoir as well as psychology books, answer in the 20th episode of the HYBRID Author podcast. Joanne Morrell, children's and young adult fiction writer and author of short non fiction for authors interviews the founders of Bad Apple Press Samantha Miles and Sonya Danaher.

Listen in as they share the benefits of being a small Press, divulge tips on what makes for a great submission as well as all aspects of their publishing adventures so far.

Co-writing Middle Grade Fantasy Fiction with Denis Knight and Cristy Burne

Joanne — Fri, 18 Feb 2022 12:38:00 +0000

What does co-writing a middle grade fantasy fiction trilogy entail?

How do you determine a process and who should you collaborate with?

In the 19th episode of the HYBRID Author podcast, host Joanne Morrell, children's and young adult fiction writer and author of short non fiction for authors interviews Denis Knight and Cristy Burne.

Denis and Cristy are the co-authors of the highly popular children's fantasy fiction trilogy, Wednesday Weeks, published by Hachette. They share their co-writing and publishing tips and talk about their agent experience and how their manuscript lead to an all out bidding war for their book.

https://denisknight.com

https://cristyburne.com

Educational and Public Lending Rights (ELR) and (PLR) With Joanne Morrell

Joanne — Fri, 04 Feb 2022 02:15:00 +0000

Are you eligible for Educational and Public Lending Rights as an Author in the country you reside in?

In this 18th episode of the HYBRID Author podcast, host Joanne Morrell, children's and young adult fiction writer and author of short non fiction for authors discloses:

what Educational Lending Rights (ELR) and Public Lending Rights (PLR) are
how they operate
who is eligible for these schemes
how you get paid and when
what countries partake in PLR and
discusses Digital Lending Rights (DLR).

https://www.arts.gov.au/funding-and-support/lending-rights

https://plrinternational.com

https://www.arts.gov.au/funding-and-support/lending-rights/questions-and-answers

https://www.arts.gov.au/what-we-do/literature/public-lending-rights-committee-annual-reports

https://www.asauthors.org/campaigns/digital-lending-right

https://www.theage.com.au/culture/books/it-buys-me-writing-time-authors-call-for-library-ebook-compensation-20211118-p59a1s.html

https://www.nla.gov.au/using-library/services-publishers/legal-deposit

All The Ways To Make An Author Income with Children's Author and Illustrator Frané Lessac

Joanne — Fri, 21 Jan 2022 01:57:00 +0000

Frané Lessac is an author-illustrator, creating over fifty books for children. She is the recipient for the Muriel Barwell Award for Distinguished Service to Children's Literature and the inaugural Regional Advisor for the Society of Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators (SCBWI) Australia West.

In the 17th episode of the HYBRID Author podcast host Joanne Morrell, children's and young adult fiction writer and author of short non fiction for authors, discusses all the ways to make an author income with Frané Lessac.

Listen in as Frané generously shares her years of experience earning an income from her books, foreign rights, presenting at festivals and schools, selling at book fairs and applying for industry professional grants.

Co-creating Picture Books with Family with Disha Patwardhan and Paridhi P Apte

Joanne — Fri, 07 Jan 2022 01:46:00 +0000

Busy mums and sisters, Disha (writer) and Paridhi (Illustrator), co-created and independently published the picture book series The Adventures of Jacob and Charlie whilst living halfway around the world from one another.

In the 16th episode of the HYBRID Author podcast, host Joanne Morrell, children's and young adult fiction writer and author of short non fiction for authors interviews this dynamic duo on their co-creating process across the miles. We talk what the best and worst aspects of working with family are and the sisters share their tips on independently publishing high quality picture books.

Merry Christmas Mash Up 2021 HYBRID Author Guests

Joanne — Fri, 24 Dec 2021 05:53:00 +0000

Wishing you a Merry Christmas Mash up!

Snippets from 2021 podcast episodes in this order:

(Episode 1) Tips on Judging Writing Competitions with Nadia L King

(Episode 3) Tips on Having a Career as a Hybrid Author with Teena Raffa-Mullligan

(Episode 4) Plot Storming with Y.A. Science Fiction and Fantasy Author Rebecca Laffar-Smith

(Episode 5) Author Fears and How to Overcome Them with Joanne Morrell

(Episode 6) Performance for Authors with Storyteller Extraordinaire Glenn B Swift

(Episode 7) Publishing Productively with Romantic Suspense and Fantasy Author Claire Boston

(Episode 8) Independently Publishing and Promoting Picture Books and Middle Grade Series with Stacy C Bauer

(Episode 2) Story and Editing Tips with A. R. Levett (The Story Mentor)

(Episode 9) Tips on Being a HYBRID Children's Author with Steve Heron

(Episode 12) Creating Online Kid's Courses with Josh Langley

(Episode 13) School Visits with Children's and Young Adult Author Deb Fitzpatrick

(Episode 14) Teachers Notes with Picture Book Author Rebecca J Palmer

(Episode 11) Submitting to Traditional Publishing Houses With Jeanette Stampone

As well as 2021 HYBRID Author Podcast statistics and 2022 writing goals.

Teachers Notes with Picture Book Author Rebecca J Palmer

Joanne — Fri, 10 Dec 2021 03:39:00 +0000

What are Teachers Notes and what purpose do they serve authors of children's books?

Should authors expect their publishing houses to write Teachers Notes for them?

And if you're an independent publisher writing your own Teachers Notes, what items should you include?

In this fourteenth episode of the HYBRID Author Podcast, host, Joanne Morrell children's and young adult fiction writer and author of short non fiction for authors interviews Rebecca J Palmer.

Rebecca is a teacher, learning resource writer and the author and illustrator of her debut picture book Monkey Mind. In this episode Rebecca divulges a plethora of knowledge and experience on the topic of Teachers Notes and why every author should have them.

https://www.rebeccajpalmer.com

School Visits with Children's and Young Adult Fiction Author Deb Fitzpatrick

Joanne — Fri, 26 Nov 2021 10:12:00 +0000

You've written your children's book, now it's time to visit schools.

This is your first school visit ... what do you do? What do you need to bring? What do you expect and what do they expect of you and what should you charge?

In this thirteenth episode of the HYBRID Author podcast, host Joanne Morrell children’s and young adult fiction writer and author of short nonfiction for authors, interviews Deb Fitzpatrick.

Deb is the author of novels for adults, young adults and children. She has a Master of Arts (creative writing) from UWA and a vast experience visting and workshoping schools all across Australia.

https://debfitzpatrick.com.au

Creating Online Courses For Kids With Josh Langley

Joanne — Fri, 12 Nov 2021 08:52:00 +0000

How do you turn your book or books for children into an online program?

First by defining what problem you are solving for children with your books and programs and then working on getting your message right.

In this twelfth episode of the HYBRID Author podcast, host Joanne Morrell, children’s and young adult fiction writer and author of short nonfiction for authors, interviews Josh Langley.

Josh is a multi award-winning radio copywriter and award-winning children’s author. His ground-breaking children’s books, programs and school talks on self-acceptance, resilience, understanding emotions and kindness, are helping thousands of kids make friends with themselves.

Here he shares his tips on how to produce online programs for kids.

https://joshlangley.com.au

Submitting to Traditional Publishing Houses with Jeanette Stampone

Joanne — Fri, 29 Oct 2021 06:02:00 +0000

You're looking for a traditional publishing house to publish your book.

You must first finish writing your manuscript and submit it to them.

But how do you do that and what do you say?

Jeanette Stampone is a rising children's author and illustrator, with two picture books in the pipes and a plethora of traditional publishing house submitting experience.

In the eleventh episode of the HYBRID Author podcast, Jeanette shares her submission secrets for first time authors looking to submit their work, provides tips on how to handle submission rejections and delves into where authors can look for opportunities to submit their work online. She also touches upon her upcoming picture book publications.

www.facebook.com/jeanettestampone

www.instagram.com/jeanettestampone

Freelance Writing Business Quick Tips For Fast Success With Joanne Morrell

Joanne — Fri, 15 Oct 2021 02:30:00 +0000

You want to set up shop as a freelance writer ... but you've never run a business before and you're new to the world of freelance.

In this tenth minisode of the HYBRID Author podcast, host Joanne Morrell shares 6 short tips on freelance writing: Mindset, Business Setup, Services, Freelance Writing Work, Rates of Pay, Finding Freelance Writing Work and keeping that Writer's Faith.

Consider the questions Joanne poses to assist you on your freelance writing adventure. Some things you can never know until you put yourself out there and give it a go.

Uncover all 66+ freelance writing tips at https://hybridauthor.com.au/freelance-writing-quick-tips-for-fast-success/

Tips on Being a HYBRID Children's Author with Steve Heron

Joanne — Fri, 01 Oct 2021 08:33:00 +0000

You want to write picture books and middle grade novels for children.

You want to publish them yourself as well as having a traditional publishing house publish them for you.

You want to go into schools and libraries and share your stories with youngsters.

In this ninth episode of the HYBRID Author podcast, host Joanne Morrell, children’s and young adult fiction writer and author of short nonfiction for authors, interviews Steve Heron.

Steve is a HYBRID children's author of 10+ titles. He utilises 40 years working with children in a social and emotional wellbeing environment to create kids books that touch and tickle hearts. In this installment, Steve shares his tips on how to write and perform for children as well as how he has used the HYBRID model to publish his books in the past.

https://steveheron.com

Independently Publishing and Promoting Picture Books and Middle Grade Series with Stacy C Bauer

Joanne — Fri, 17 Sep 2021 06:25:00 +0000

How do you independently publish a picture book or non fiction middle grade series for children?

Where do you start and how do you get noticed?

In the eighth episode of The HYBRID Author podcast, host Joanne Morrell, children’s and young adult fiction writer and author of short nonfiction for authors, interviews Stacy C Bauer.

Stacy is a teacher, wife, mother and musician as well as being an absolute power house in the self publishing sphere; author of 6 picture books, 3 non fiction middle grades, activity books, courses and coaching services, in this episode, Stacy shares her success secrets on creating, marketing, and kickstarting self published stories for children.

https://stacycbauer.com

Publishing Productively with Romantic Suspense and Fantasy Author Claire Boston

Joanne — Thu, 02 Sep 2021 01:54:00 +0000

Do you aspire to write and independently publish 4 books a year?

Do you have a publishing process or a publishing schedule in place to help you be productive in reaching this goal?

In the seventh episode of the HYBRID Author podcast, host Joanne Morrell, children’s and young adult fiction writer and author of short nonfiction for authors, interviews Claire Boston.

Claire is the author of 21+ books in the romance, romantic suspense and fantasy catergories. She shares her tips on being organised in achieving publishing productivity as well as self-editing secrets to help you polish your manuscript before sending it on for further editorial review.

www.claireboston.com

Performance for Authors with Storyteller Extraordinaire Glenn B Swift

Joanne — Fri, 20 Aug 2021 11:57:00 +0000

You've finished writing and publishing your book ... now you have to tell people about it.

Do you seek to entertain, enlighten and inspire your audience when sharing your work? Do you wish to give more of a performance rather than simply present?

In this sixth episode of the HYBRID Author podcast, Joanne Morrell, children’s and young adult fiction writer and author of short nonfiction for authors, interviews Glenn B Swift. Glenn is a Western Australian Storyteller and children's author who has been performing professionally in schools, libraries, theatres and other public spaces in and around the city since 1988.

Listen in as Glenn shares secrets on preparation, props and how to give a killer performance as well as divulging what the Alexander Technique is and how it has helped Glenn sometimes perform 7 events in one day! We also touch upon Glenn's self-published journey for his illustrated Gothic book: The Ghost in the Bell Tower.

https://glennbswift.com

Author Fears and How to Overcome Them with Joanne Morrell

Joanne — Sat, 07 Aug 2021 04:32:00 +0000

How many times have you said 'your writing's crap' or shied away from calling yourself an author?

How do authors cope with unsupportive people, being judged by others or having their work rejected by publishers?

In this fifth episode of the HYBRID Author podcast, host Joanne Morrell, children’s and young adult fiction writer and author of short nonfiction for authors, shares her personal experience of dealing with confidence fears such as being judged by others, craft fears in the form of being rejected and self doubt fears: wasting time in an unknown future as well as physical fears of continuing to chase your writerly dreams in the face of unsupportive people.

Since starting to write your novel have you developed any of these author fears? Are you using them as reasons not to advance in your writing career?

www.hybridauthor.com.au

Plot Storming with Y.A. Science Fiction and Fantasy Author Rebecca Laffar-Smith

Joanne — Fri, 16 Jul 2021 03:45:00 +0000

Have you ever considered publishing a workbook? Do you have a clear understanding of what the main plot points that make up a plot are? Are you using them effectively in your novel?

In this fourth episode of the HYBRID Author podcast, host Joanne Morrell, children’s and young adult fiction writer and author of short nonfiction for authors, interviews Rebecca Laffar-Smith.

Rebecca gave up a successful career writing about the non-fiction world in favour of fantastical creatures and the fanciful things she could create and immortalise in fiction. Now she writes full-time whilst homeschooling her Autistic son, raising her creative daughter, and offering coaching, mentorship, and events within her writing community. Rebecca's Plot Storming Workbook helps writers define their story's structure, use the Hero's Journey effectively and provides context to develop their characters.

Tips on Having a Career as a HYBRID Author with Teena Raffa-Mulligan

Joanne — Fri, 02 Jul 2021 05:13:00 +0000

You want to both independently and traditionally publish your books for reasons such as wanting:

partial control over your work
the status traditional publishing brings and
to feel like you are accomplishing publication whilst waiting for traditional representation.

In this third episode of the HYBRID Author podcast, host Joanne Morrell, children’s and young adult fiction writer and author of short nonfiction for authors, interviews Teena Raffa-Mulligan.

Teena has had a lengthy career as a professional writer, editor and journalist and is the author of 32 books for women and children. She independently publishes through her own imprint: Sea Song Publications, as well as publishing her stories through various traditional small presses.

Story and Editing Tips with A. R. Levett (The Story Mentor)

Joanne — Fri, 18 Jun 2021 02:50:00 +0000

What are the most common editing blunders writers can make? Are you aware of the various types of editing your manuscript must go through before publication?

Is your story balanced with the key aspects that make for an engaging story?

In this second episode of the HYBRID Author podcast, host Joanne Morrell, children’s and young adult fiction writer and author of short nonfiction for authors, interviews A. R. Levett (The Story Mentor).

Andrew is an award-winning, emerging Western Australian author with multiple poems and short stories published in a variety of local and international publications. His Story Mentoring services help writers hone their skills and turn their ideas into captivating stories.

Tips on Judging Writing Competitions with Nadia L King

Joanne — Fri, 28 May 2021 07:39:00 +0000

Have you ever wondered how to become a Judge for a writing award or a writing competition? Would being a Judge boost your author profile or inspire your own works of writing? Is Judging a great networking and marketing tool for your author career?

In this first episode of the HYBRID Author podcast, host Joanne Morrell, children’s and young adult fiction writer and author of short nonfiction for authors, interviews Nadia L King.

Nadia is an award winning short story writer and picture book and young adult fiction author. She has been a repeat Judge for many writing awards and competitions in Western Australia including the prestiges Tim Winton Young Writer's Award.