Author: Chris & Gena Maselli

Chris and Gena love helping others with writing, publishing, building their author brand, and selling books. They each have authored several award-winning books that are so good you’ve never heard of them (you know they must be good!). They’ve also helped individuals and organizations as ghostwriters, editors, direct mail writers, curriculum program authors, magazine writers, money launderers, and much, much more. Yes, that last one was a joke. More than anything, Chris and Gena enjoy helping up and coming writers through their online training site and as teachers at writers’ conferences.

Podcast

From Traditional to Self-Publishing: The Changing Landscape of the Publishing Industry
ByChris & Gena Maselli November 1, 2023November 1, 2023 Reading Time: 23 minutes

In this episode of the Writing Momentum podcast, hosts Chris and Gena chat with Kevin Tumlinson, the voice of indie publishing and the former Director of Marketing for Draft2Digital. They discuss the benefits of self-publishing versus traditional publishing, the changing landscape of the industry, and the best self-publishing options available today. Kevin shares his expertise and insights on reaching readers, marketing strategies, and the power of networking at conferences. He also reveals his exciting new role as CEO of BookSweeps, an author promotions and platform building company. Listeners will gain valuable advice on navigating the publishing world and finding success as an author.

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Podcast

Cracking the Code: Understanding Trends in the Writing Market w/ Marisa Corvisiero
ByChris & Gena Maselli October 25, 2023October 25, 2023 Reading Time: 18 minutes

In this episode of the Writing Momentum podcast, Chris and Gena are joined by Marisa Corvisiero, the founder and CEO of Corvisiero Literary Agency. They discuss the concept of trends in the writing market, including what defines a trend and how it affects writers. Marisa explains that trends are what is hot and being published or read at a particular time, but cautions against blindly following trends because they can change quickly. They also discuss the influence of other media on book trends and the importance of staying informed. The episode concludes with a discussion about Marisa’s upcoming Authorpreneur workshop, where writers will have the opportunity to learn from industry professionals and gain the knowledge and skills necessary to succeed as an author.

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Podcast

Unveiling the Power of Spiritual Themes in Fiction with Laurel Thomas
ByChris & Gena Maselli October 18, 2023October 18, 2023 Reading Time: 15 minutes

In this episode of the Writing Momentum podcast, Chris and Gena are joined by author Laurel Thomas to discuss incorporating spiritual themes into fiction. They explore how to find and craft a theme, the benefits of adding depth to a story, and the importance of emotional impact. Laurel shares her process of starting with open-ended questions and weaving spiritual themes into her fantasy novels. She also addresses the possibility of adding themes into a manuscript that has already been started. The episode encourages writers to explore universal themes that resonate with readers, regardless of their religious beliefs.

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Podcast

From Frustration to Success: How Writers Can Simplify and Streamline Email Marketing
ByChris & Gena Maselli October 11, 2023October 12, 2023 Reading Time: 15 minutes

In this episode of the Writing Momentum podcast, hosts Chris and Gena address the frustrations of writer Bridget, who is struggling with email marketing. They offer several solutions, including using a lead magnet in books to collect email addresses, simplifying email service providers like MailerLite or ConvertKit, and paring down email lists. They emphasize the importance of starting with what is easy and building from there. Throughout the episode, they provide practical tips and resources to help writers simplify their email marketing efforts and connect with their audience effectively.

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Podcast

Liz Wilcox: Why Every Author NEEDS a Newsletter
ByChris & Gena Maselli October 4, 2023October 4, 2023 Reading Time: 23 minutes

In this episode, Chris and Gena interview Liz Wilcox, an email strategist who helps small businesses and authors build online relationships with their audience. Liz shares her journey into email marketing and why authors should have a newsletter. She explains that a newsletter allows authors to stay connected with their readers, build hype for book releases, and own their platform. Liz also provides tips for creating engaging newsletters, offers a framework for writing them, and discusses her email marketing membership where she provides templates and trainings to help authors market their books effectively.

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Podcast

When Should You Sign with an Agent? w/Marisa Corvisiero
ByChris & Gena Maselli September 27, 2023January 31, 2024 Reading Time: 20 minutes

In this episode, Chris and Gena interview Marisa Corvisiero, founder and CEO of the Corvisiero Literary Agency. Marisa shares her journey from being a writer to becoming an agent and talks about the changing landscape of publishing. She emphasizes the importance of authors embracing the role of an entrepreneur and the need to understand the business side of publishing. Marisa also discusses the annual Authorpreneur Workshop, an intensive event that helps authors navigate their publishing options and gain the necessary knowledge and skills to succeed. She is offering a special discount for Writing Momentum listeners that can be used on Early Bird Pricing.

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Podcast

BATTLE for the Best Style Guide!
ByChris & Gena Maselli September 6, 2023January 31, 2024 Reading Time: 12 minutes

Join hosts Chris and Gena in this thought-provoking episode as they engage in a lively discussion about the best style guide for writing. They look at MLA, Chicago, AP, APA formats and more, shedding light on their respective applications in different disciplines. Tune in to this episode to gain a deeper understanding of these formats and discover which style guide might be the best fit for your own writing endeavors. Who will win? YOU if you listen!

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Podcast

How to Make the Most of a Writer’s Conference
ByChris & Gena Maselli August 30, 2023January 31, 2024 Reading Time: 10 minutes

In this dynamic episode, hosts Chris and Gena dive into the world of writer’s conferences, sharing invaluable insights on how to make the most of these transformative events. Drawing from their own experiences and expertise, they discuss how to harness the power of writer’s conferences and take your craft to the next level. Tune in to this episode and unlock the secrets to making your writer’s conference experience truly impactful and rewarding.

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Podcast

How to Get the Most Out of Interviews with Melanie Hemry
ByChris & Gena Maselli August 23, 2023January 31, 2024 Reading Time: 21 minutes

In this episode, we’re talking with Melanie Hemry, an award-winning nonfiction writer who specializes in telling real stories of real people in a captivating way. Today, she’ll teach us the techniques she uses in her interviews, how she coaxes her subjects to speak about often personal, and often difficult journeys, and how she identifies the heart of each person’s story.

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Podcast

How to Get a Gig Speaking at a Writer’s Conference
ByChris & Gena Maselli August 16, 2023January 31, 2024 Reading Time: 14 minutes

In this episode of the Writing Momentum podcast, Chris and Gena dive into the topic of securing speaking engagements at writers’ conferences. Drawing from their own experiences and industry insights, they provide guidance on how to effectively pitch yourself as a speaker, network, and showcase your expertise to conference organizers. Whether you’re a seasoned writer or just starting out, this episode offers invaluable advice for writers aspiring to share their knowledge and make a lasting impact on the conference circuit.

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Yep, we have a writing group and – WOWEE! – We get stuff DONE! Come join us…