Writer Unblocked

In this episode of Writer Unblocked, I sit down with award-winning author Carol Van Den Hende to explore how letters can unlock creativity, why empathy and hope are essential in storytelling, and how authors can think about their brand as a promise. Carol also shares her journey from traditional publishing to founding her own B Corp press, and what it really means to publish responsibly.We talk about:How the epistolary format sparked seven chapters in one weekendThe neuroscience of empathy between writers and readersWhy authors should celebrate book clubs and community feedbackThe difference between publishing for access and publishing with responsibilityDefining author brand beyond logos and colorsAbout Carol Van Den Hende:Carol is the author of the award-winning Goodbye Orchid trilogy and the forthcoming Dear Orchid (Nov 11, Veteran’s Day). Her books have been named most-anticipated reads by Buzzfeed, Parade, and Travel+Leisure, and praised by Glamour and Woman’s World. Through her writing, speaking, and leadership, Carol champions stories of resilience, hope, and empathy.Connect with Carol: 🌐 Website: carolvandenhende.com 📸 Instagram: @carolvandenhende 📘 Facebook: Carol Van Den Hende Author ▶️ YouTube: @authorcv 🎵 TikTok: @carolvandenhende 📝 Substack: cvdh.substack.com 🔗 Linktree: linktr.ee/cvdhFor more information about Writer Unblocked please visit writerunblockedpodcast.com.

In this episode of Writer Unblocked, Nicole talks with author, publisher and former CFO Kirsten Marion, who shares how she turned midlife reinvention into a thriving indie publishing career.They dive into:Why her fantasy series centers a 60-year-old heroineHow to plan a publishing schedule like a proSmart marketing lessons from book one vs. book twoThe real value of email lists and evergreen contentThe meaning of “Elegant Success” for authors Learn more about Kirsten Marion → [kirstenmarion.com] Check out the Rowanswood Crones series https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0FTC7GN46 Download The Empire Checklist → https://nicole-opdenbosch.mykajabi.com/empire-checklistFor more information about Writer Unblocked please visit writerunblockedpodcast.com

In this episode of Writer Unblocked, host Nicole Op Den Bosch sits down with author, publicist, and literary entrepreneur Dr. Rhonda Lawson to unpack the misunderstood difference between publicity and marketing, explore ethical AI use for writers, and discuss why every entrepreneur needs a book.🎧 Listen now and discover why visibility starts with strategy, not sales.Resources & Links:Dr. Rhonda Lawson’s Website: https://www.mtwimagesolutions.com/Nicole’s Free Empire ChecklistFor more information about Writer Unblocked please visit writerunblockedpodcast.com.

In this episode of Writer Unblocked, I sit down with trial attorney and debut author Brad Elder, whose legal thriller Recoil of Justice tackles AI, espionage, and the ethical gray areas of the courtroom.We talk about:Brad’s unexpected leap into writing (1 week from idea to page!)Why he chose self-publishing—and how he learned the entire industry himselfEmail lists, marketing mistakes, and platform choicesHis upcoming audiobook release and follow-up novel Core of Truth📚 Grab Brad’s book: https://bradeldernovels.com 📸 Follow him: Instagram: @brad.elder.novels Facebook: @Brad Elder NovelsFor more information about Writer Unblocked please visit writerunblockedpodcast.com.

In this episode of Writer Unblocked, Nicole shares her personal discovery of Human Design and how learning she is a Manifestor changed everything about how she works, creates, and coaches authors. For years she thought something was “wrong” with her because she couldn’t maintain consistency. Human Design revealed that her energy comes in waves and that honoring these cycles is the key to sustainable creativity.If you’ve ever struggled with consistency, burnout, or feeling like you’re not disciplined enough, this episode will help you reframe your wiring and embrace the way you’re designed to work.Resources & Links: 📚 Recommended Books on Human Design: Informed: The Comprehensive Guide To Human Design ManifestorsUnderstanding Human Design: The New Science of Astrology: Discover Who You Really AreThe Human Design Workbook: A Step by Step Guide to Understanding Your Own Chart and How it Can Transform Your Life 👉 Connect with Nicole on Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/reignitewithnicole/For more information about Writer Unblocked please visit writerunblockedpodcast.com.May contain affiliate links.

TL McCoy didn’t plan to write a middle-grade fantasy novel. But when she learned that only 3.4% of children’s books feature disabled protagonists, and her own granddaughter was diagnosed with Dravet Syndrome, Delilah Versus the Ghastly Grim was born.In this powerful episode of Writer Unblocked, TL shares how she:Pivoted from a psychological thriller to inclusive children’s fictionSelf-published like a pro earning awards and bestseller statusUsed AI to create a full-scale marketing plan with promo videos and streaming adsTurned personal heartbreak into a story of strengthStays unblocked with walks, music, and radical purposeYou’ll also hear our honest take on AI’s role in publishing, from marketing help to creative red flags.Links:Book: Delilah Versus the Ghastly GrimWebsite: www.blueroundbookgroup.comInstagram: @blue_round_book_group_llcYouTube: Blue Round Book GroupFor more information about Writer Unblocked please visit writerunblockedpodcast.com.