Shows
Print Run PodcastEpisode 150—No Thoughts Just ToucansThis… is one of our more loose episodes ever. We sit down and catch up on everything from what we’re reading to how Laura avoids death while foraging in the woods, from an analysis of what makes a good children’s board book to how we’re carrying on during a moment of intense national trauma. Also we talk about book advances for a minute. Also we talk about toucans for a minute. At one point we get distracted by Oreos on a shelf. Come join the vibe–you’ll like it here, we promise.2022-05-2751 min
Print Run PodcastEpisode 147—Publishing’s Great ResignationWOW it is nice to be back in the recording studio! In our first episode this side of Erik having a child, we talk about the recent trend of editors leaving their jobs and even outright leaving the industry. What does it mean for publishing when its talent is burning out or choosing other paths at this rate? How does it affect publishing houses, our work as agents, and writers? Join us for the beginning of a new era of Print Run–we’re here, we’re energized, and we can’t wait to get back in touch with all of you.2022-03-0159 min
Print Run PodcastEpisode 146—The Baby Hane-isodeOn the “season finale” episode before Erik goes on paternity leave for a few months, we talk about the many swirling feelings around going on leave in the publishing industry, artistic anxiety in the face of looming parenthood, how we’ve thought about our professional goals in relation to the actual fabric of our lives, and the ways we’ve tried to create sustainable ways of making sure our work and art flow from our actual life, and not the other way around. It’s a personal episode on the (potential) eve of Erik’s first child being born, so join us and...2021-09-2756 min
Print Run PodcastEpisode 139— Taste and AgencyThis week we take a look at Laura McGrath’s fascinating paper on how literary agents shape the acquisitions landscape. It’s got a lot of insights we agree with and some things we push back on a bit, but overall the conversation ends up being a close look at what “taste” actually is, how people in our position exist in relation to corporate power, and much more. Join us!
The paper we discuss is here, for your reference: https://academic.oup.com/alh/advance-article-abstract/doi/10.1093/alh/ajab005/6161353?redirectedFrom=fulltext#2306386852021-03-151h 00
Print Run PodcastEpisode 134—The LetterThis week we talk about the open letter published in Harper’s that supposedly advocates for free speech and open debate--we think it’s actually an argument for something far more pernicious, and on this episode we talk through why. It’s a conversation on power, platform, censorship, and related issues, and we think you’ll find it useful!
Special episodes for the month coming soon. You can submit work for those or just write to us at printrunpodcast@gmail.com. Thanks as always for your support!2020-07-141h 00
Print Run PodcastEpisode 133—Weird, Weird SummerWell, it’s summer. Typically that’s a slow period in publishing, but this year feels different for a variety of reasons we try to work through in our discussion, along with some thoughts on how our work might change when the supposed “busy season” hits this fall. How has this pandemic changed the way we see our own working lives and those of our clients? All that and more, including an update on Erik’s new foray into science fiction, and a To Loon It May Concern.2020-06-2351 min
Print Run PodcastEpisode 132—Pressure PointsThis week, on the heels of what feels like a whole slew of notable publishing stories in response to heightened discussions on race and privilege in the industry, we talk about whiteness. This is a crucial moment in our industry (and of course in the country at large), and it is going to require white people being willing to engage in substantive self-criticism and action that gets beyond the usual expressions of allyship or “correct opinion.” We talk through the need to not shy away from discomfort, to do the necessary work even when it doesn’t rake in social media...2020-06-1056 min
Print Run PodcastEpisode 131—Welcome to the OmergerdVerseThis week, we’re talking about a fascinating copyright case involving two authors working within a larger fanfiction universe known as the Omegaverse. It’s . . . a lot, as you’ll soon find out, but it’s also potentially a precursor for how large media corporations could move in on lucrative open-source writing projects. Then we have a quick discussion about shmagencies, and draw a key distinction: agencies that are bad for writers, and agencies that are bad for the agents working at them. Join us!2020-05-2747 min
Print Run PodcastEpisode 130—The Bookstore at the End of the World, featuring Genay Jackson and Wynne KontosThis week we are excited to have an interview with Genay Jackson and Wynne Kontos, two booksellers who are a part of the Bookstore at the End of the World. They tell us about their experience being laid off at the start of the pandemic, how publishing can treat its booksellers with the respect and value they deserve, and how bookselling is about people and community more than any physical location.2020-05-1250 min
Print Run PodcastEpisode 129—VAMPIRES BACKThis week, with the announcement of Stephenie Meyer’s forthcoming book, we take on a question as old as time itself: are vampires back? It’s a conversation about how trends are formed, what they mean, and how publishing responds to them, and it ends up transitioning into a discussion on switching categories as a writer too. Join us!
Also, we realize that the audio quality is worse now that we are recording remotely during quarantine. Thank you for bearing with us as we work on a better solution, hopefully implemented for this coming week!2020-05-0542 min
Print Run PodcastEpisode 128—“Am I Good Enough?”As a means of trying to be more uplifting than recent weeks, we take on that everpresent fear all writers have: in relation to publishing, are you good enough? Obviously craft and skill matter, but here we reframe the question to one of constantly changing conditions and markets, rather than anything you can control--this should feel liberating, because no one has a good prediction for what’s “on trend” or will be, or how acquisitions might look even a few months from now. Just write!2020-04-2146 min
Print Run PodcastEpisode 127—Publishing’s Pandemic ResponseThis week, we talk about the ways in which publishing has, has not, and could respond to the new conditions presented by the pandemic, and why certain choices made well before 2020 have set up current difficulties. We also take a look at a very topical coronavirus book, and debate whether this sort of quick, reactive publishing is a good strategy in a time like this.2020-04-0756 min
Print Run PodcastEpisode 126—Socially DistancedFrom our own respective isolations, we do a nice little wellness check on each other, and talk about how coronavirus has affected our work, the publishing industry, and even how we and other book people might view concepts like “productivity” moving forward. How will such a massive disruption affect the industry? No one knows, but we talk through a few ideas and in general just catch up.2020-03-2456 min
Print Run PodcastEpisode 125—Print Run Live, featuring Eric Smith!This week’s episode is a recording of our live show from last week at Subtext Books here in Saint Paul, where we talked with Eric Smith about his new novel DON’T READ THE COMMENTS, how he balances agent and author life, being a positive internet presence in an age of cynicism, and much more.2020-03-1055 min
Print Run PodcastEpisode 124—Publishing About PublishingWe talk about the announced deal for the novel The Other Black Girl, a great-sounding book set within the publishing industry that will surely generate all sorts of discussion. We then discuss how publishers themselves might do a better job of investing in indie bookstores, and other infrastructure they rely on to succeed. This week’s To Loon It May Concern centers on deciding between experienced agents versus newer ones. Join us!2020-02-2557 min
Print Run PodcastEpisode 123—Work LifeWe’re back! Laura recently transitioned to agenting full time, and now that the dust has cleared it gives us the chance to talk about the strange calculations in work-life balance nearly everyone in publishing is making, why so many agents have second jobs (and why that’s not something often discussed), and how this culture of broadcasting how busy we all are creates a paradox with the fact that we never talk about our work outside the field.2020-02-1858 min
Print Run PodcastEpisode 122—American DirtThis week, in addition to singing some sweet 90s pop, we talk through the many facets of the mess surrounding the novel American Dirt. What does this whole saga reveal about publishing’s biases, how review coverage intersects with promotion, or what gets prioritized by publishers in media at the expense of other projects? We discuss all that and more. Join us!2020-01-281h 03
Print Run PodcastEpisode 121—Every Item on the MenuAfter a quick RWA update, we try to do a segment on resolutions and predictions for 2020, and while we do end up getting there after some deft transition work, we somehow end up talking about the St. Paul cafe scene? Anyway, we talk about interrogating one’s own taste, why SF/F might become more “literary” this year, a new outlook on reading submissions, and a lot more. Join us!2020-01-1447 min
Print Run PodcastEpisode 120—RWA, and What Writing Institutions Should BeIn the wake of the still-unfolding RWA mess, we share our perspectives on what’s gone so badly wrong, and why we feel these problems are--at least in part--intrinsic to the sort of writing institution that RWA has become. From there, we talk about what large writing associations should pay careful attention to as they build, so as to root out the sorts of problems we’re seeing now.2019-12-3157 min
Print Run PodcastEpisode 119—The Holiday PartyIt’s a pretty loose one this week. We talk about where we’re at as we draw toward the end of the year, share some memories from the year, give a delicious recipe for Oreo balls, it’s a whole thing. Come hang out; pretty easy listening today.2019-12-1748 min
Print Run PodcastEpisode 118—The DecembosodeThis week we talk through the reason for the season, in this stretch after National Novel Writing Month--self-editing and evaluation, and how to decide when something is ready to show others and progress in the publishing process. Join us for a conversation on how we make those calls in our own work, and ways you can see your own writing in that more detached, professional light.2019-12-1051 min
Print Run PodcastEpisode 117—The One Before ThanksgivingThis episode covers an interesting recent piece on the continual publishing of right-wing garbage books, how best to design a contest or grant for marginalized creators (and how that project can go awry), and a To Loon It May Concern about how authors with big platforms should behave online. Join us!2019-11-2655 min
Print Run PodcastEpisode 116—Hope, Risk, and TinfoilAfter checking in on #NaNoWriMo, we talk about the recent PW article that wondered aloud whether publishing is “too top-heavy.” It is, but not for the reasons the article suggests! Then we debut our rousing new segment titled “Laura’s Tinfoil Hat,” which is exactly what you think it is, and close with a To Loon It May Concern.2019-11-1254 min
Print Run PodcastEpisode 115—Doing Some SwearsThis week we talk about the new California law that’s supposedly designed to help freelancers, but in practice will further devalue their work and the work of staff writers at publications. From there, we talk about a discussion about Netflix that stemmed out of the Frankfurt Book Fair—are they competitors or allies in publishing?
As ever, you can submit materials to our special shows at printrunpodcast@gmail.com. New Patreon shows coming soon!2019-10-2452 min
Print Run PodcastEpisode 114—Working Both SidesAfter a quick response to the Booker award announcement and a note on censorship, today we talk about the unique dynamic of people in publishing also being creators who get published. What can be learned from people who work in publishing and also write? What does it show us about the industry? Finally, we close the week with a TLIMC about how conscientious book-buying. Join us!2019-10-1555 min
Print Run PodcastEpisode 113—Sinners in the Hands of an Angry LoonThis week’s discussion is centered on the idea of long versus short-term expectations in artistic careers, the pressures that make thinking about both difficult, and the role agents play in helping writers see beyond the most immediate project. Also included: a check-in on the Audible case, layoffs at Sports Illustrated, and a thought on EU tariffs and books.2019-10-0856 min
Print Run PodcastEpisode 112—NashvilleWe’re back from Nashville, where we attended the Digital Book World conference! We talk about what we saw at the conference and recap the evening in which we were lucky enough to walk away with a podcasting award. It’s a convo about the state of political nonfiction, brown drinks, the internet, and the publishing job market. Join us!2019-09-1750 min
Print Run PodcastEpisode 111—The Big New ThingAfter quickly running through the publishing news of the past few weeks and deciding whether each thing is Good or Bad, we talk about some news of our own: as of today, we’ve launched our own agency and are open for business. We talk a little about our new agenting home, and then get into a To Loon It May Concern about power dynamics, respect, and agent etiquette online. Join us!2019-09-1059 min
Print Run PodcastEpisode 110—Preorders, Crossovers, and the Ways Publishers and Readers EngageThis week we talk about how the new emphasis on preorders for book sales has changed the way books are purchased, discussed, marketed, and evaluated by publishers. It’s a self-reinforcing feedback loop between publishers and book buyers, and it’s a trend with weird ramifications. Then, we talk through the idea of “crossover” books--who creates them, publishers or readerships? In all, it’s an episode about the interactions between the people selling and the people buying books, and how that interaction ends up changing the books themselves.2019-08-2057 min
Print Run PodcastEpisode 109—Who Wants Some PieAfter a rousing conversation about 1) pie and 2) the joys of novels that can’t be made into good movies, we talk about Macmillan’s new decision to restrict library purchases of ebooks. The (questionable) choice leads to some fundamental questions about the publishing and reading landscape: do libraries help or hurt publisher sales? How does an ebook differ from a print book, in terms of library usage and even just as a product bought and sold?2019-08-0657 min
Print Run PodcastEpisode 108—Caption ThisThat classic online book retailer / Pentagon contract candidate is at it again, folks. With the announcement of Audible’s new audiobook feature called “Captions,” we talk about how it mostly amounts to an audacious rights infringement, one that fits perfectly in line with Amazon’s larger cohesive project of devaluing books as a means of swallowing the industry whole. We discuss the possible strategies behind rolling out something as nakedly infringing as this feature, and then look at another news item this week--Dean Koontz signing a five-book deal with Amazon as his publisher--to talk about where everything is at and where we...2019-07-2359 min
Print Run PodcastEpisode 107—July, JulyIt’s hot and muggy out, and we use that as an opportunity to examine one of publishing’s oldest pieces of conventional wisdom, that the industry grinds to a halt in the summer. We discuss how, rather than truly slowing down, the work over summer in books changes; we talk about soft pitching, research, conferences, and the other things that make publishing not a seasonal industry but one with a rhythm we’ve all come to rely on. Also, Laura is hopelessly hooked on a phone game and we try to Work Through That.2019-07-1652 min
Print Run PodcastEpisode 106—The One with the Paint FumesHello from the recording studio, where a large paint job is in progress--but it’s only making the takes stronger. Today we talk about the recent New York Times article about the rampant fraud and counterfeit problem on Amazon, and then contrast it with a GOOD publishing thing, the success of Minotaur Books and their fascinating approach to achieving it. Plus a To Loon It May Concern at the end. Join us!
Special episodes for June are out already, and July’s are on the way. As always, you can send us stuff at printrunpodcast@gmail.com.2019-07-0254 min
Print Run PodcastEpisode 105—What Should Agents Do?...It’s a big, open-ended question, but it’s one we ask ourselves this week with regard to how the role of agents and agencies could shift to meet the needs of modern publishing. We talk through some big ideas and some small tweaks, and have a wide-ranging conversation on how agenting could look different--for both agents themselves and the authors they work with.2019-06-1858 min
Print Run PodcastEpisode 104—The Cancelers Become The CanceledThis week, in light of the Natasha Tynes story, we discuss the trend of books being canceled by publishers due to bad behavior online by their authors. In a time when authors often find themselves harassed online with the intent of driving them off platforms or costing them opportunities, how can we make sure that decisions in response to internet outrage are made properly and based on the right reasons? Do publishers really have a track record that should make us trust them in some of these values judgments? Also included is a quick conversation about the recent sale of...2019-06-1149 min
Print Run PodcastEpisode 103—Talking About Talking About Books (with Nathan Goldman)This week we’re joined by literary critic and editor Nathan Goldman to talk about the current state of book discourse, and the role literary criticism plays in the broader publishing ecosystem, especially in the age of Goodreads and Amazon consumer reviews. We discuss blurbs, boosterism, book twitter, the importance of “negative” or nuanced reviews, and how editors decide what gets reviewed and when. It’s a fun conversation that takes good stock of the patterns of contemporary book discussion, so be sure to tune in!2019-05-2851 min
Print Run PodcastEpisode 102—The Hope-isodeAfter a few weeks of covering various bits of doom and gloom in the publishing world, people asked us: “why would you or anyone want to take part in this industry?” That’s actually a very good question, and in this episode, which fixates on what we find hopeful about the book world as it currently exists, we try to answer it. We get into why we stick around, what motivates us in the book world, what points of light we see on the horizon. Join us and hopefully you’ll feel good too.2019-05-1453 min
Print Run PodcastEpisode 101—Print Run Morning Drive Time Radio HourWe recorded in the morning this time, and the results… the results are something. In light of publishers turning down Woody Allen’s memoir, we talk about the publisher role as tastemaker--and how far too often and increasingly frequently, they choose to abdicate that responsibility. We also talk about a new interesting copyright protection act for small creators, as well as a new troubling shakeup in the book-distribution landscape. Join us!2019-05-0741 min
Print Run PodcastEpisode 100—Print Run 100We’ve made it to our 100th episode! Mostly this week we spend a little time reflecting on where the show has been, how it’s changed itself and us, and how the book world we’ve been talking about since late 2016 has progressed. Come hang out--it’s a fun, reflective episode that gives us all a chance to take stock of the last 100 Weeks Of Books!2019-04-2358 min
Print Run PodcastEpisode 99—WGA Walks AwayOur main conversation this week is about the recent decision by the Writers Guild of America to push forward in encouraging its members to fire their agents, despite mounting pressure and uncertainty for the writers in their ranks. It’s a really noteworthy (and brave!) step that cuts to the heart of so many issues of how entertainment and publishing treat their creators. Join us as we try to make sense of it.2019-04-1656 min
Print Run PodcastEpisode 98—You BetchaAfter some lighter conversation about Laura’s recent Wisconsin book trip, what we’re reading, and who the writerly voice of the millennial generation might be, we talk about Stacey Abrams’s romance-novel-themed appearance on Colbert, a recent discussion about whether the Bad Sex Awards are reflections of America’s latent puritanism, and the larger question of how sex writing intersects with notions of prestige and acclaim in the literary world. It’s warm out, we’re wearing shorts, come hang out.2019-04-091h 01
Print Run PodcastEpisode 97—The April FoolsIn light of another RITA award controversy, we discuss the different ways that the literary world hands out prizes, and discuss the interplay between readers, writers, and critics when it comes to shaping the awards landscape. Plus, a discussion about a very good publishing op-ed in the Guardian in a new edition of “What’s Going On Down There?”, and a To Loon It May Concern about what to do when the Writer Internet becomes counterproductive to your work.2019-04-021h 04
Print Run PodcastEpisode 96—The English PatientsWe’re back, with a recap of our time at the London Book Fair! It was a trip that reminded us of where we sit in the vast constellation of publishing as an industry, and we got to see how the rubber meets the road in foreign-rights sales too. Come hang out for one of our chattier episodes, full of some Publishing Truths and also just some trip recap as well. It’s good to be back!2019-03-2659 min
Print Run PodcastEpisode 95—Comps, Comps, CompsThis week’s episode is all about comp titles--far from being just something you put in a query letter, comps are how the whole industry talks to itself, and in many ways that practice has come to shape publishing in significant ways. If every book’s prospects exist in relation to a different, preexisting book, how does that change what gets published, and how?2019-02-261h 03
Print Run PodcastEpisode 94—Speaking To The ManagerThis week’s show features a discussion on the tricky nature of writing fiction about real historical figures, and the heavy responsibility a writer carries in managing source material, historical gaps, and power dynamics. Then, separately, we talk about how agents and authors might balance the much-justified desire for industry transparency with the fact that the author-agent relationship is, well, human and complicated; how can both parties work together to find a place where everyone’s comfortable? Plus, a great To Loon It May Concern about blurbs!2019-02-191h 08
Print Run PodcastEpisode 93—Grammar and PowerIn this week’s show, we discuss everyone’s favorite topic: grammar. How do certain conventions in grammar, syntax, and punctuation end up as class signifiers or tools for enforcing other systems of power? We talk style guides, copy editing, the new book on grammar by Benjamin Dreyer, and plenty else. Also: the horrors of magazine submission fees, and a new letter to the Loon.2019-02-121h 00
Print Run PodcastEpisode 92—We’re Not Teching Our Way Out of ThisWe survived the cold! This week we take a look at Wattpad’s new plan to create a full-service publisher and “revolutionize” the media industry (lol), especially in light of further traditional imprint closures and consolidations. Then, we examine that bonkers New Yorker story about Dan Mallory, and discuss how and why some people in the publishing world are allowed to be eccentric liars and self-mythologizers while others never even get a chance to tell the truth. And a To Loon It May Concern at the end. Join us!2019-02-0557 min
Print Run PodcastEpisode 91—Writing ViralIn light of the NYT’s critical response to the debut story collection from Kristen Roupenian (author of “Cat Person”), we trace the publishing route from the initial story’s viral success to where the collection is at now, and talk fairly extensively about how publishing handles and responds to viral success. We see a connection between that response and publishing’s newfound desire for first-person narratives readers can “see themselves” in--so much so that a whole imprint has started to publish exclusively first-person projects. This is one of our better and deeper conversations, in our opinion, and we’re excited to hear 2019-01-2247 min
Print Run PodcastEpisode 90—Everybody Settle DownThis week, we take stock of three bizarre and unsettling publishing stories: the apparent missteps in the reporting and fact-checking in Jill Abramson’s new book, the author Sherrilyn Kenyon filing a lawsuit over having been poisoned, and to top it all off, Kathleen Hale getting another book deal that strangely seems to celebrate the fact that she tracked down a Goodreads reviewer to her home. It’s a mix of the weird, and we try to draw some larger lessons for publishing out of the mess. Join us!2019-01-1546 min
Print Run PodcastEpisode 89—Welcome To Another Year Of BooksHappy new year, everyone! On the first Print Run of 2019, We take a look at the year ahead by going through what we’re excited about in the book world, what we’re scared of, predictions, and resolutions. We’ll make it a great year in which certainly nothing will ever happen that makes us mad at all!2019-01-0841 min
Print Run PodcastEpisode 88—Print Run Holiday Gift Guide 2018!Folks, it’s that time of year again. After a riveting new edition of everyone’s favorite Australia-themed segment What’s Going On Down There, we get into some gift suggestions for the Print Run fan in your life. This obviously ranges from the genuinely useful (electric tea kettle!) to the—uh, less so. Anyway, join us for a loose and fun episode that’s sure to warm the cold recesses of your frozen heart.2018-12-1144 min
Print Run PodcastEpisode 87—Scandal MakersAs we come back from a few weeks off, we spent this episode getting caught up on all the times people in the book world got mad recently, including the Nora Roberts-Tomi Adeyemi kerfuffle (and spinoff argument!), a poet who tattooed a plagiarized verse on her forearm, and people getting mad at JK Rowling for—let’s see here—having a room in which she writes. So basically it’s another normal week of publishing!!!!!! We also get to Jonathan Franzen’s ten rules for writing novels, which were, well. They sure do exist, we’ll say that.
Also: our special epis...2018-12-0450 min
Print Run PodcastEpisode 86—Trial and ErrorThis week we pay respects to Marvel Comics’ Stan Lee, who died this week at age 95. Then we get into one of the most pervasive yet undiscussed topics in all of publishing: failure. Trying things that don’t work is the signature trait of nearly every facet of the industry, and yet it’s so rarely brought to light in the way successes understandably are. We talk about how failure has informed our respective approaches to agenting, and how working in the industry can feel like its own sort of creative pursuit--one that involves experimentation, failure, and learning from mistakes, all in...2018-11-1355 min
Print Run PodcastEpisode 85—The Celebs are At It AgainFolks . . . The celebs, there are so many. This week--after digging into a delightful historical episode of a book-theft epidemic in Australia—we explore the concept of celebrity book clubs and their effect on the publishing industry. How does the desire to land a book with Oprah or Reese Witherspoon or Jimmy Fallon change how certain projects get published? And what do those celebrities get, brand-wise, in return? We also look at how tech like Instagram and even newer platforms like Twitch have changed and will continue to change these dynamics. Join us!2018-11-0651 min
Print Run PodcastEpisode 84—Red Dead Novel Writing MonthThis week, after working through our thoughts on National Novel Writing Month (happy writing, everyone!), we discuss the intriguing critical response to the video game “Red Dead Redemption 2.” Apart from it being widely loved, people are specifically enjoying how difficult and tedious it is in spots--is this still an experience readers have with particularly large or difficult books? We talk about the differences between playing and reading, and wonder if seeing games as texts might be able to inform our thoughts on writing or pitching books. And of course, we end with a To Loon It May Concern!
All special epis...2018-10-3058 min
Print Run PodcastEpisode 83—Post-Wedded BlissWe’re back! Fresh off the both of us having our respective weddings, we get caught up quickly on the last few weeks of publishing news before diving into the topic of creative and literary burnout. When someone working in a creative field is feeling low energy, how might that affect their habits, or their reading tastes, or even the types of projects they choose to work on? In publishing, taste is a public matter; when yours changes, it can be tricky to grapple with that out loud, in front of the rest of the industry. We discuss the ins an...2018-10-2356 min
Print Run PodcastEpisode 82—Awards and CanonsWe’ve got freshly announced National Book Award and Man Booker finalist lists to discuss, so we give our impressions on what we’re seeing, how these lists relates to the broad Book Conversation that’s been happening throughout the year, and how we feel the winners might shake out. It offers a nice foundation for our other topic, a look at a recent attempt by NYMag/Vulture to create an early twenty-first century canon. The task is obviously impossible, but we talk about their methodology, and share our own thoughts on what might define the critical examination of books from t...2018-09-241h 01
Print Run PodcastEpisode 81—The Machine Made Me Do ItThis week, we found a very strange new “writing residency” model that, while obviously dangerous in this instance, we feel could crop up more and more. The sheer precarity of the writing life is going to lead to different institutions offering “solutions” that at first might seem attractive, but must be watched closely. Also, in light of two book-tech-related stories from the past couple weeks, we make a simple request: don’t let creators of sales algorithms and other digital publishing technologies pass off moral responsibility for the outcomes they produce. Plus: a new fiction writer under FBI investigation, and another ro...2018-09-2050 min
Print Run PodcastEpisode 80—Hedging BetsThis week, after swatting another terrible article about YA literature out of the sky, we talk about the perceived moral stands publishers are able with regard to “controversial” authors. Publishers often wait until the most obviously lucrative moment to support marginalized authors and their projects, and also refuse to cut bait with toxic authors until the last possible instant, when their hand becomes forced. How do morality clauses let publishers hedge their bets while still claiming a supposed high ground? To finish the show, we dip into our new advice mailbag, where we’ve got two terrific publishing questions to consid2018-09-1049 min
Print Run PodcastEpisode 79—To Loon It May ConcernThis week we debut our new advice-column segment, where we try get a handle on the messiest book situations our listeners have found themselves in. We’ve got some critique-group quandaries this week, which felt like a good place to start. Also: please, please send us your messiest, stupidest, and most dramatic publishing-related qualms! Email the bird. Let the healing in.
Special episodes for the month will all be out by end of this week (still August, baby!). As always, you can send us materials for any of those shows at printrunpodcast@gmail.com.2018-08-3049 min
Print Run PodcastEpisode 78—Soap, Crimes, and Deckled EdgesLaura’s back from WorldCon, so we catch up by talking about all sorts of things, from the convention itself and the YA “soap controversy,” to the dangers of grifty politics books and everyone’s favorite book design feature, the deckled edge. A fun, free-flowing episode in which we’re mostly just happy to be back in the studio!2018-08-2252 min
Print Run PodcastEpisode 77—Call and ResponseOn the heels of recent publishing news as well as the response to NYT’s hiring of Sarah Jeong, this week’s show focuses on a phenomenon that is only going to get more common: bad-faith mobs appealing to power in an attempt to have writers or artists fired. We talk about how publishers and magazines should be prepared to respond to this sort of pernicious internet campaign, and how developing those responses is going to be key in the effort to publish essential voices in the modern age. Also included: a discussion of new contest judging protocols, and a look...2018-08-0752 min
Print Run PodcastEpisode 76—The One With the Curry RecipeThis week, in the deepest valley of the summer doldrums, we mostly just catch up and talk about various things on our agenting plates: what we’re reading, how summer work in publishing is going, becoming a crusty lake monster in a canoe, and plenty more. Meandering and fun, because it’s hot out. Also, Laura gives a delightful curry recipe, which got inserted into this episode because . . . Because we just really think curry is delicious, and no possible reason other than that. Happy cooking!2018-07-3158 min
Print Run PodcastEpisode 75—Something RottenWe dig into this week’s allegations of fraud in the agent world, as well as the problems with this year’s WorldCon. Both topics serve as a means of asking a larger question: on the front end of publishing, what are all our structures actually built on? The truth is that, between agents and authors looking to pair up before any publishing money gets involved, so much of this industry runs on integrity and trust. That presents opportunities, but it also makes the writing world susceptible to fraud in ways that can be destructive to the whole ecosystem. We talk...2018-07-2656 min
Print Run PodcastPrint Run RPG: Character Creation!Welcome, at long last, to Print Run’s first foray into Call of Cthulhu! In this preview episode, the two of us set the stage by creating the characters we’ll use to play through the game. In a revelation that will shock no one, it turns out Intern Kevin has a bunch of useless knowledge and no functional ability whatsoever. Meanwhile, Jane seems to have a ruthless combination of ambition and skill.
For the game itself, be sure to check us out on Patreon! Thanks so much for listening; we love trying new things like this and it’s only p...2018-07-1718 min
Print Run PodcastEpisode 74 — Escapism vs. ActivismThis week, we tackle a fundamental question of the writing life in our current political moment: should writing fiction help us escape realities for a while, or should it offer thoughtful engagement? The answer as always is layered and nuanced and multifold. We also answer a listener question about personal responsibility with regard to Amazon: if Amazon provides the best publishing route for a writer’s career, is it okay to take that route? The answer is yes, but it opens all sorts of interesting questions about responsibility within the publishing landscape. Join us!2018-07-0350 min
Print Run PodcastA Note on Funds for Kid Lit Says No Kids in CagesJust an abbreviated discussion this week, because you guys gave us so much to do! We are incredibly heartened by how much money you all raised for organizations fighting child separation on the border. You came together and raised nearly $1500, which is no small feat. Now we’ve gotta go do the query critiques in return, so this week is just a quick chat on how political issues like this should absolutely be directly addressed by the book publishing community. Thank you so much for you donations!2018-06-2618 min
Print Run PodcastEpisode 73—Speculation on the SpeculativeThis week’s show takes a look at the subtle differences between categories like literary science fiction/fantasy and speculative fiction, first in terms of craft and then in terms of selling category. What we find is that those two spheres are separate: the way an author envisions their own work often doesn’t line up with how it’s sold. So what makes a story with speculative or otherworldly elements “literary” or “SFF,” and how does that affect its writing, its readers, and the way it’s pitched and sold?
(Also we talk about the MPR Raccoon, who is not the hero we...2018-06-1950 min
Print Run PodcastEpisode 72—What About the MoneyThis week we tackle an underlying, often silent argument put forth to writers by many different parties in publishing: that the money one might get from writing books should be considered unsustainable and an afterthought. How does this strange yet common thinking affect the industry as a whole, and how does it affect authors in less stable financial situations? Does it change the way an agent approaches the career-planning aspect of working with a client? It’s a convo about the strange ways the book industry lets itself talk about writer compensation. Join us!2018-06-1244 min
Print Run PodcastEpisode 71—One Weird TrickGoodreads released a fascinating article about how the team behind Celeste Ng’s Little Fires Everywhere used the site to fuel the book’s rise to the bestseller list, so we dig into it and examine what surprised us about the data, what might be replicable for other books, and how tools like Goodreads work in conjunction with other publicity and marketing strategies in publishing. We also give an excellent recap of BookExpo (we uhhhh weren’t there), and spend a minute on that new Clinton/Patterson book. Join us!2018-06-0550 min
Print Run PodcastEpisode 70—At the Top of Our VoiceThis week we hash out the latest updates to #cockygate, because Book Twitter will never stop and neither will we. We also spend some time on the major embezzlement case coming from Chuck Palahniuk’s agency; it’s a bizarre situation that once again leaves an agency’s authors footing the bill. Also, all of Erik’s queries are from David Brooks fans now, which he is THRILLED about. Join us!2018-05-3046 min
Print Run PodcastEpisode 69—The Publishing EcosystemIn light of Romantic Times closing, we talk about how certain publishing institutions come to occupy indispensable spaces within the publishing community, and how part of moving the industry forward will involve understanding how those spaces work and adapting accordingly. It’s a convo about the roles we each play within the larger system, and what those roles can tell us about how we should imagine them in the future. Join us!2018-05-2253 min
Print Run PodcastEpisode 68—Publishing D&DThings get a bit off the rails this week when a conversation about tabletop gaming eventually turns into us imagining what a publishing-themed D&D campaign might look like! Join us as we conjure up some characters and quests—I get to be Intern Kevin, I called it—and just generally get way too into the idea of a publishing RPG.
(But also please will someone set this up with us?)
In a more productive vein, be sure to tune in for our special episodes this month on Patreon. If you’d like to submit to any of our shows, feel f...2018-05-1555 min
Print Run PodcastEpisode 67—CockyWe’re back and thank goodness, because tons has happened in the book world over the last couple weeks. First, we tackle the serious stuff—the latest set of abuse allegations against literary figures, including those leading to the cancellation of the 2018 Nobel Prize for literature. But then we take on the latest book-themed crackpot scheme: #cockygate, or one author’s attempt to trademark the word “cocky” and demand that all other authors cease and desist. It’s . . . Well, it’s really something. Join us!2018-05-0849 min
Print Run PodcastEpisode 66 — Vinegar HeartsThis week—after spending a couple minutes chatting about the insanity of the dumb fight about misandry in publishing—we take a look at the recent industry conversation surround Pitch Wars and entrance fees. The debate last week led to all kinds of important questions: What’s access, and why is it crucial for it to be free? What’s labor, and who should do the compensating for it? And perhaps most importantly, what do the two sides of the argument reveal about the state of the industry at the grassroots level?2018-04-1048 min
Print Run PodcastEpisode 65 — Branding is BeingThis week, we talk about Sean Penn’s deeply terrible debut novel, and give him the First Pages Show treatment—it’s very cathartic. We also discuss the implications of Microsoft cracking down on explicit content across its online platforms, which includes Office, which means it includes writers. Finally: what should we make of the response to the distribution plan for John Oliver’s book, and what does the rift between Chronicle and booksellers reveal about the state of the industry?2018-04-0346 min
Print Run PodcastEpisode 64 — The OCTOCOMThis week we present a heartwarming tale about the time when stupid college-aged Erik thought he had a TV agent for a script about an octopus. It’s . . . well it’s really something, and most importantly, he’s not the idiot he used to be! Join us this week for some story time and other chatting on a free-flowing and fun episode.2018-03-2745 min
Print Run PodcastEpisode 63—The Novel is Dead Now, Everyone Go HomeThis week, we get some laughs in about Will Self's belief that the novel is dying as an art form, share some stories of good and bad book events, briefly discuss the John Oliver-Mike Pence book kerfuffle, and have a quick conversation about publishers favoring brand-name authors over debuts. A cheerful episode, so come join us! Also sorry in advance for the Ben Shapiro impression, it's . . . it's really something.2018-03-2147 min
Print Run PodcastEpisode 62—Self on the ShelfWe're back! This week we talk about the new "Kent Test" for evaluating diverse representation in books, and then broaden out to discuss what effects things like the Bechdel Test have on our discussions about art. We also debate what moral responsibility authors should have when a press becomes "toxic," (hint: not that much), and then gripe about what books go on a display bookshelf because at the end of the day, dear listener, we are petty people. Join us!2018-03-131h 05
Print Run PodcastEpisode 61—The Kids are All RightCurtis Dawkins, author of The Graybar Hotel, is back in the news this week, as the Michigan penitentiary in which he is currently imprisoned has stated it believes it has a claim to his royalty money from the book. We discuss the implications of this pending case, prison's relationship with art (guess what, it's bad), and why publishing folks should care about this more than they currently do. Also: in light of Florida teens finding their activist voices in the wake of the Parkland shooting, what role does YA literature play in the formation of young people's political imaginations?2018-02-2752 min
Print Run PodcastEpisode 60 — Making Publishing SaferThis week, after discussing Washington Post’s incorporation of Amazon’s proprietary data into their bestseller lists, we discuss what appears to be the onset of book publishing’s reckoning with sexual harassment and abuse. Similar to other industries, how can the book world do an honest and sufficient job of examining the structures of power that allow these things to take place? What can an industry that by all accounts would like to be a more inclusive and safe place for everyone do to correct its course, and what challenges stand in the way? A bit more serious than usual...2018-02-1350 min
Print Run PodcastEpisode 59—The NBA Goes WorldwideThis week, we examine the fascinating decision by the National Book Awards to introduce a category for translated literature. What does this mean for our concept of a “national” award, and how might this category be used to extend literary “citizenship” to books and writing that readers in this country may have previously considered “un-American”? We discuss how adding the category changes the award in a fundamental way (for the better), and what it could mean for cultivating the canon moving forward.2018-02-0645 min
Print Run PodcastEpisode 47—Better (fake) Awards!We got a little bored of the standard literary award categories, so we decided to make up some new ones and hand out some hardware. Along with our fake award show, we also ended up litigating a copyright fight about baseball books, and recap a recent author reading Erik attended.2017-09-2657 min
Print Run PodcastEpisode 40—What's YA?This week, Laura walks us through the history of Young Adult literature in an attempt to answer a question that seems to never go away: what, exactly, is YA? We discuss why the category is so often under attack from others in the book world, its unique features, and much more. Plus: a JP book of the week, a word on the most recent wave of writer layoffs, and some thoughts on Keanu Reeves starting a publishing company.2017-07-251h 00
Print Run PodcastEpisode 38—The People's CourtThis episode has it all: a recap of Laura’s time at a SF/F convention; a bad article about old-school publishing; a Fiction Author Under FBI Investigation, of the Week; and a discussion on prison literature, focusing on the newly released collection of stories The Graybar Hotel, written by Curtis Dawkins. Join us!2017-07-1158 min
Print Run PodcastEpisode 26 — And Then There Were HootsIn light of NYC’s new law forbidding employers from asking job candidates their previous salaries, we talk to editor Allyson Rudolph (@allysonrudolph) about the many issues surrounding pay in the publishing industry. Spoiler alert: there are tons, and it ends up hurting people AND the books. Allyson and Erik also tell a couple stories from their time on an editorial staff together and … hoo, boy. It’s a fun, honest, and wide-ranging interview we think you’ll like!2017-04-1847 min
Print Run PodcastEpisode 21 — The Hate U GiveThis week, we examine the phenomenon of THE HATE U GIVE by Angie Thomas, and break down why exactly it was able to debut at the top of the bestseller lists. Then, in light of Laura being mad at some tweets, we have a spirited discussion about whether or not getting an MFA “matters” for writers. We even fit in some listener questions at the end!2017-03-141h 01
Print Run PodcastEpisode 20 — The Wonderful ImpedimentOn the occasion of Erik finishing a manuscript he's been dragging his feet on for five years, we talk about the strange and naive myths we believed about publishing before entering the industry, and the ways expectations have not matched up with reality. What's unexpectedly good about working in publishing, and what unexpectedly sucks? Also, we talk about the novels we wrote as children, including Laura's quest narrative in a fancy notebook, and the fact that Erik didn't understand typesetting as a child and thought every finished book was handwritten. He's ... well folks, he's not very bright.2017-03-071h 00
Print Run PodcastEpisode 16 — The Birds and the BoatsThis week, we look at the strange and often hilarious ways that women's bodies get described in fiction, and talk about how that descriptive tradition weighs on writers even today. Then, Erik decides to apply to be James Patterson's coauthor, and his sample chapter is ... well, it's really something.2017-02-0750 min
Print Run PodcastEpisode 14 — Story TimeThis episode features a crazy publishing story from Erik, along with a discussion on the apparently booming industry of dumbing down literary classics for toddlers. We also talk about our best bookstore ideas (spoiler alert: the best idea is cinnamon rolls, as is always the case). Basically, we were Very Serious the last couple weeks and wanted a fun episode this time. Enjoy!2017-01-2457 min
Print Run PodcastEpisode 12 — MousetrapIn this episode, we discuss ways that modern publishing should address the literary canon's diversity problem. We also fight about whether or not audiobooks count as reading, because frankly we're both petty as hell. At one point we end up talking at length about mice in apartments, which Erik tries pretty hard to make relevant to books but he'll tell you, dear listener, he may not have succeeded. Anyway, it's a fun episode. Join us!2017-01-1054 min
Print Run PodcastEpisode 9 — Author Theme ParksIn the latest episode of Print Run, we talk about the horrors of recommending books to others, because giving gifts with subtext is what the holidays are all about. Also, we offer some alternative author theme parks to try, rather than the planned Harper Lee tourist spot in Alabama. There's a listener mailbag, a chat about the various dictionaries' words of the year, and Erik reads the winning passage of the 2016 Bad Sex Award. I'm sorry, mom.2016-12-061h 07
Print Run PodcastEpisode 8 — VerifiedIn this episode of Print Run, we talk about Penguin Random House's decision to start helping its employees pay off student loans, and what the could mean for the candidate pool for publishing jobs. Then Laura tries to get verified on Twitter while Erik gets nostalgic about star-bellied sneetches. Also discussed are the results of National Book Awards and an update on Erik's flailing #NaNoWriMo campaign.2016-11-2257 min
Print Run PodcastEpisode 6 — #NaNoCryMoIn the latest episode of Print Run, Laura and Erik talk about the national nightmare facing America this November: NaNoWriMo. Also discussed are all the books George R.R. Martin isn't currently writing, and a chat about coming changes to BEA, which are good in that they make BEA closer to nonexistence. Plus, a savage argument over the #writetip!2016-11-0858 min
Print Run PodcastNovember Query ShowIn their first dedicated query show, Laura and Erik read three real queries and break down what's working and not working in each. The conversation focuses on things like using a strong lede, showcasing the essential details of your story as efficiently as possible, and finding the right voice for your pitch.2016-11-0350 min
Print Run PodcastEpisode 5 — Book Publishing in a Thinkpiece WorldIn this week's Print Run, Laura and Erik use the current election cycle—No politics, we promise!—to discuss how book publishing fits within a fast-paced reading world geared toward shorter articles and thinkpieces. What will books on the 2016 election look like, and will they have an impact? Then, Laura pays off losing the Man Booker bet with a dramatic reading of her favorite author, artist, and style icon, Jonathan Franzen. It's—well, it happened, we'll say that. Enjoy!2016-11-011h 08
Print Run PodcastEpisode 4 — The Halloween Hit ListIn this episode, Laura lets Erik sit near the gong and immediately regrets it. We discuss climbing the book-podcast charts and declare war on the NYTBR podcast, which surely has them shaking in their fine designer boots. In honor of Halloween we break down what scares us in books, as well as our favorite scary books of all time, and also litigate whether or not Laura is crazy for wanting her obituary to appear in Publisher's Lunch (spoiler alert: she is).2016-10-2548 min
Print Run PodcastEpisode 3 — Romance OuttakesIn Episode 3 of Print Run, we discuss Laura's recent trip to a Romance Writer's convention, as well as the romance genre as a whole: what's the difference between the romance genre and women's fiction, or romance and erotica? We talk about our best "romance outtakes," the plots and features of romantic writing that will never see the light of day. A sex-themed #writetip is included, as well as a brief chat about Bob Dylan's Nobel win!2016-10-1846 min
Print Run PodcastEpisode 1 — The Man Booker AwardsThis is the first full-length episode of Print Run. In it, you will find some illegal literary betting on the winner of the Man Booker, talk of Erik's plants, and what GRRM is most likely not working on this week.
Enjoy!2016-10-0458 min
Print Run PodcastThe Murder of Stephen KingIn the week before the first official episode of Print Run, Laura and Erik discuss James Patterson's cancelled novel "The Murder of Stephen King," how Patterson has been Mad Online for six years and counting, and the many benefits of putting a fictional hit out on your literary rivals.2016-09-1612 min