Shows
Path to PublishedWhy You Can't Skip Hiring a Graphic DesignerIs it really worth it to invest in hiring a professional graphic designer for your book cover design? Spoiler alert: YES! In this episode, I'm sharing behind-the-scenes details on the design process for the cover of my new book. Listen in for the meaning of my cover design and why we really do judge a book by its cover. I'm your host, Ashley Fenker, bringing you the Path to Published podcast with a solo episode about the importance of investing in a graphic designer. My new book, Good (Enough) Mother: Stories and Essays, is available today wherever b...
2025-08-0417 minPath to PublishedHow to Effectively Switch Modes Between Online and Offline CreativityHow can we stay focused and energized in loud spaces? How can we carve out space and time for quiet creativity? In this episode, I'm sharing how I've switched modes between engaging my creativity for online and digital creations, and retreating for offline creativity. Both modes—quiet and loud—are essential for business success as a working artist. Together, let's find ways to switch gears from public to private spaces that require different energy. I'm your host, Ashley Fenker, bringing you the Path to Published podcast with a solo episode about switching modes between online and offline crea...
2025-07-2821 minPath to Published5 Steps to Follow to Land Your Dream EndorsementsWhat if I told you that there's one simple way to land your next big "YES"? I'm dramatically oversimplifying this, but seriously, there's one small thing you can do today that you don't want to skip. In this episode, I'm sharing 5 steps to follow when asking for endorsements or testimonials (also known as "blurbs") from authors and editors who agree to read your book before it's published. Listen in for a discussion about what endorsements can do for your confidence and authority. This episode is perfect for anyone who is ready to believe in their work and take the...
2025-07-2121 minPath to PublishedReady to Make a Plan and Hold Yourself to It? Here's How I Did ItReady to make a plan and hold yourself to it? In this episode, I'm sharing 4 steps to making your plan for your next creative project. Listen in for a discussion about understanding your "why," sketching out a plan, and tips for holding yourself accountable when no one is there to ensure you get it done. This episode is perfect for anyone on the path to publication, or looking to tackle any creative or business project with a fresh start mindset. I'm your host, Ashley Fenker, bringing you the Path to Published podcast with a solo episode about...
2025-07-1416 minPath to PublishedHow to Build a Platform and Connection with Readers Have you ever felt like building a platform as a writer is a numbers game? Or, as a reader, have you been quick to unsubscribe to an email list because it simply clutters your inbox? In this episode, I'm diving deep into how we can reframe platform building as a connection with readers—and real humans on the other side of the screen. Listen in for 3 ways to think about connection with readers on your path to finding your people. Plus, I'll share the current tools that I'm using in my business to engage and stay in touch with pe...
2025-07-0721 minPath to PublishedHere's Your Permission Slip to Evolve as an Artist In this episode, I'm sharing a recent lightbulb moment that led me to walk away from a successful project. Listen in for your own permission slip to evolve and follow your creative energy. Why do we keep moving certain tasks further down on our to-do list? When is it time to walk away and admit that we've outgrown a project? I'm your host, Ashley Fenker, bringing you the Path to Published podcast with a solo episode about discerning when it's time to move on to a new creative project. My new book, Good (Enough) Mother: Stories and...
2025-06-3014 minPath to PublishedStop Sharing Your Work Immediately: How to Avoid Instant Gratification In this episode, I'm sharing the discipline that I've learned in following a slow publishing journey and 5 reasons why I've chosen to avoid the instant gratification that's available to us today with the help of technology. Many will teach that self-publishing is a quick way to share your work with the world instantly, but I'm arguing that we can slow down the process to invest in learning skills needed to learn all the ins and outs of publishing. I'm your host, Ashley Fenker, bringing you the Path to Published podcast with a solo episode about the importance...
2025-06-2316 minPath to Published7 Ways a Good Editor Will Improve the Quality of Your Writing In this episode, we're discussing what happens once you've written your essay or piece of creative nonfiction. I'm sharing 7 things that a good editor will do for the quality of your work. Opening up and inviting feedback can feel incredibly scary, but it's a sign of maturity and growth in all areas of your life. I'm your host, Ashley Fenker, bringing you the Path to Published podcast with a solo episode about what to look for in a quality editor who will take your work to the next level. My new book, Good (Enough) Mother: Stories and...
2025-06-1611 minPath to PublishedHow to Move from Journal Processing to Structured EssaysIn this episode, I'm sharing a few signs for you to look for to know if you're ready to move beyond writing in your private journal into a space of crafting a piece of work that you intend to publish. I'm also walking through the different approaches that I use to move from brainstorming to writing a first draft. I reveal some of the hard decisions that I've had to make on my own path to published. I'm your host, Ashley Fenker, bringing you the Path to Published podcast with a solo episode about when you know...
2025-06-0917 minPath to PublishedA Behind-the-Scenes Look at the Start of My Journey to Publishing My BookIn this episode, I'm imagining we're meeting at a party for the first time and you ask me, "What do you do for a living?" I'm revealing why I dread this question, how I wish I would answer it, how many years I've been working on my essay collection, and why this feels like the perfect time to publish and share this body of work with the world. I'm your host, Ashley Fenker, kicking off the Path to Published podcast with a solo episode about the start of my journey to publish my essay collection, Good (Enough...
2025-06-0211 minPath to PublishedTRAILERHi! I'm author Ashley Fenker. The Path to Published podcast is where I'm sharing my insights into the self-publishing journey for writers of creative nonfiction. Listen in for a deep dive into the intersection between creativity and business. My book, Good (Enough) Mother: Stories and Essays, released on March 11, 2025 as a #1 Top New Release on Amazon. Kirkus Reviews Magazine distinguished it as a recipient of Awards & Accolades and featured it in the May 1st issue. Several bestselling authors endorsed the book calling it their "must-read of the year" and saying they "inhaled it in one sitting" and "...
2025-05-3002 min
Minimalist Moms Podcast | Simple Living for Overwhelmed MomsGood (Enough) Mother | Ashley Fenker (EP29)This podcast is part of the Clear Intentions series of the show.What does it mean to be a "good enough" mother in the midst of chaos, chronic illness, and creativity? In this episode, Ashley Fenker shares the story behind her book Good Enough Mother: Stories and Essays, and how the isolation of the 2020 pandemic sparked her return to writing. In our conversation today, Ashley opens up about her struggles and the healing power of journaling, reflection, and creative expression. This honest conversation explores the messy, beautiful reality of motherhood—and the freedom that comes with letting "go...
2025-04-1832 min
Girls Night with Stephanie May WilsonAn Honest Conversation about Motherhood and Chronic Illness — with Ashley FenkerHey friends! Welcome to Girls’ Night!Today we’re sharing one woman’s courageous journey of living with an autoimmune disorder and navigating the challenges of motherhood. I know there are women listening who dream of being a mother. But for those living with chronic illness or other health complications, that dream can come with uncertainty and doubt. Even if you haven't walked this path, you may know the ache of longing for something that feels just out of reach. Today's conversation is for anyone who has ever wondered if thei...
2025-03-2450 min