Shows
Pros Talking ProseWhy Some Books Disappear (And Others Never Die)In this episode of Pros Talking Prose, Troy and Stacey tackle one of the hardest questions authors face:
Are you writing to sell… or writing to last?
After reflecting on the legacy of Robert Duvall and the staying power of cultural classics like The Princess Bride, The Big Lebowski, and The Stand, we dive deep into:
The half-life of a bestseller
Why “writing to market” often fades
The algorithm vs authenticity
Audience of one vs audience of many
Why some books spike… and others endure
What legacy actually means for mode...
2026-02-211h 18
Pros Talking ProseYou're Not Independent, You're Isolated: And It's Hurting Your Author CareerAre you really independent as an author… or are you just isolated?
In this episode of Pros Talking Prose, Troy Lambert and Stacey Smekofske break down a hard truth about the writing life:
Writing may be solitary.
Building an author career is not.
Too many indie authors try to run their author business alone, making every decision solo, second-guessing every move, and slowly burning out in silence. And it could be costing them growth.
In this conversation, we talk about:
Why community is a business strategy (not just a vibe)
Th...
2026-02-141h 14
Pros Talking ProseThe Three-Tool Rule that Saves Authors Time and MoneyTool overwhelm is real, and it’s quietly wrecking a LOT of author progress.
If you’ve ever downloaded one more “must-have” app, paid for a shiny new subscription, or convinced yourself you can’t move forward until you have the “perfect system”… this episode is for you.
In this week’s Pros Talking Prose, Troy and Stacey break down The 3-Tool Rule—a ridiculously practical way to cut through the noise, stop bleeding time (and money), and get back to what actually moves the needle in an author career.
We cover:
Why “time-saving too...
2026-02-071h 25
Pros Talking ProseHow to Capture Story Ideas Before They Vanish...Even If you Get That Idea in the Shower
Inspiration doesn’t strike when it’s convenient—and most writers lose their best ideas before they ever hit the page.
In this episode of Pros Talking Prose, Stacey Smekofske and Troy Lambert break down how writers actually capture inspiration, why ideas tend to show up in the shower, the car, or the coffee shop, and how to stop letting those sparks disappear into thin air.
We talk about:
Why inspiration is psychological, not magical
How to train your brain to recognize writing time
2026-01-3158 min
Pros Talking ProseWhy Your "Great Idea" Isn't a Story (And How to Fix It)You don’t have a writing problem—you have a story problem.
In this craft-focused episode of Pros Talking Prose, Stacey Smekofske and Troy Lambert dig into one of the biggest issues holding writers back: ideas that sound interesting but don’t actually sustain a story.
We break down how to pressure-test an idea before you waste months writing it, including:
• The difference between a cool event and a story readers will emotionally invest in
• Why conflict—not vibes—drives plot
• How character motivation determines whether a story can last past chapter five...
2026-01-241h 15
Pros Talking ProsePublish Hangover: The Emotional Whiplash Authors Don't ExpectA little insight and maybe introspection.
You hit publish on your book—so why does it feel like something’s missing? In this short episode, publishing coach and editor Stacey Smekofske breaks down the publish hangover—the emotional crash and loss of momentum many authors experience after finishing a book. From false expectations about instant success to the dangerous pause that causes authors to disappear after launch, this is the part of the writing journey no one talks about.
If you’ve ever asked: “Why do I feel empty after publishing my book?” “What should I do after I h...
2026-01-1719 min
Pros Talking ProseTroy Went Rogue (And Told Authors to Take a Nap): Rest, Rust, and the Long Game of Being an AuthorStacey is at Disney. Troy went rogue. And instead of hustle culture, he brought a message most authors desperately need to hear:
Take. A. Nap.
In this solo episode of Pros Talking Prose, Troy Lambert digs into the often-ignored reality of the author life: burnout isn’t a badge of honor, exhaustion isn’t productivity, and grinding yourself into rust won’t build a sustainable career.
He talks about
Why rest is not quitting—it’s a strategy
The difference between creative rest, business rest, and physical rest
How constant marketing noise (ads...
2026-01-1016 min
Pros Talking ProseHow Not to Gaslight Yourself With Author Goals: Metrics That Matter: Writing, Readers, RevenueAre you setting ambitious author goals… or accidentally gaslighting yourself into burnout?
In this episode of Pros Talking Prose, Stacey Smekofske and Troy Lambert kick off the new year with a no-BS conversation about realistic author goals, metrics that actually matter, and why chasing the wrong numbers is the fastest way to hate your writing life.
We dig into the KPIs authors should be tracking (and the ones you probably should stop obsessing over), including:
Writing output that fits your real life
Building readers you actually own (not borrowed from an algorithm)
Understanding rev...
2026-01-031h 34
Pros Talking ProseYour Author Business in 2026 LIVE - What to prepare for now (broadcast 12/27/25)2026 is closer than you think—and authors who prepare now will have a serious edge.
Join Pros Talking Prose for a (broadcast 12/27/25) LIVE 2026 publishing outlook and Author Q&A, featuring special guest Vincent Zandri—bestselling author and industry veteran who’s seen publishing evolve through every major shift.
This is an honest, no-fluff conversation about what’s actually coming and how authors can adapt without losing their voice, rights, or sanity.
We’ll talk about:
Where the publishing industry is heading in 2026
What authors should start preparing for now
Smart pivots for indie...
2025-12-301h 30
Pros Talking ProseThe Industry is Rebooting & Authors Are Feeling ItPublishing didn’t explode in 2025.
It didn’t collapse either.
It… buffered.
In this gloriously chaotic year-in-review episode, Stacey and Troy talk through what a lot of authors are quietly feeling but rarely saying out loud: the industry hit a reset button, AI showed up like a spicy autocomplete with opinions, reader culture got meaner, expectations got louder, and everyone somehow ended the year exhausted and behind—even when they weren’t.
We unpack:
Why 2025 felt more like a recalibration than a breakout
How AI is actually fitting into the writing process (h...
2025-12-191h 15
Pros Talking ProseThe Industry is a Mess, Your Story Isn'tThe publishing industry is chaotic, glitchy, and occasionally held together with duct tape—but your story? That part is solid.
In this episode of Pros Talking Prose, Stacey and Troy dig into the hidden work behind every book you hold—the invisible labor, emotional investment, and sheer number of moving pieces that go into getting a story from a writer’s brain to a reader’s hands. From editors and designers to printers, platforms, deadlines, and distribution delays, publishing is rarely simple… and never instant.
We talk about why there are no true emergencies in publishing (even when...
2025-12-131h 25
Pros Talking ProseBuilding a Reader Community: Because Amazon Alone is an Inbred VillageIn this episode, Troy and Stacey dive into building a real reader community—because relying solely on Amazon is basically letting your author career grow up in an algorithmic inbred village. Sure, Amazon can boost sales… but it’s not a community. And if you’re serious about longevity, superfans, and NOT letting one tech giant decide your future, you’ve got to build something bigger, smarter, and more human.
We break down:
Why Amazon’s ecosystem can’t be your only lifeline
Where real communities are actually forming (TikTok, Discord, Substack & more)
How to create supe...
2025-11-2957 min
Pros Talking ProseThe Human Advantage: Why AI Can’t Kill PublishingAre authors doomed? Is AI coming for your career? Is Skynet secretly drafting romance novels?
Spoiler: Nope. Not even close.
In this heart-forward episode of Pros Talking Prose, Stacey and Troy break down the REAL state of publishing in the age of AI—and why writers absolutely can keep calm and stay human. We talk about the industry shifts, the fear-driven doom loops, and the truth readers keep shouting: authentic, emotional, human-made stories still win every time.
We dig into:
Why AI can generate words—but not heart, soul, or “WTF just happened?” moments
2025-11-221h 02
Pros Talking ProseWhen Readers Attack (And Other A-Hole Adventures): Stacey Said WHAT?Buckle up, writers—Stacey’s flying solo this week, and that means no Troy, no filter. In this episode of Pros Talking Prose, Stacey dives into the now-infamous Author Nation Incident, breaks down why some folks in the writing world are acting like A-holes, and asks the big question: Is SHE the A-hole… or just the only one saying the quiet parts out loud?
From awkward run-ins with industry “celebrities,” to the bizarre rule that authors supposedly can’t comment on their own reviews, to the shocking meltdown in a conference class (yes… the Tarot Lady situation), Stacey dishes...
2025-11-1552 min
Pros Talking ProseOur Author Nation Highlights: Update from the Largest Conference in the USAWhat happens when you drop two publishing pros into Las Vegas for Author Nation? Chaos. Camaraderie. And maybe a little karaoke.
Stacey Smekofske and Troy Lambert as they broadcast straight from Author Nation 2025, running on caffeine, conference buzz, and too many industry secrets to count. From fangirling over Joanna Penn in the bathroom to plotting with Michael Evans about AI, Kickstarters, and creative constraints, this episode is a highlight reel of inspiration, laughter, and mild professional mischief.
We’re talking Becca Syme’s happiness cycle, Drew’s “Creativity Cube,” organic marketing that actually works (yes, TikTok can...
2025-11-0835 min
Pros Talking ProseSwifties, Secrets, and Shenanigans: Plotting Our Vegas TakeoverTaylor Swift may have her Eras Tour, but Stacey and Troy are kicking off their Vegas Era—and things are about to get delightfully chaotic.
In this episode of Pros Talking Prose, we spill the (iced) tea on our upcoming Author Nation adventures, dish out some not-so-secret secrets about the future of publishing, and talk writer retreats, renovation madness, and why every author needs to stop waiting for permission to go pro.
From “we swear we didn’t break into a house” stories to the launch of a publishing venture that’s definitely not a cult, this episod...
2025-11-0153 min
Pros Talking ProseYour Publisher is Out of Business - Now What?: Part 2Part 2: “Fuzzy Handcuffs & Freedom
In Part 2 of this mini series about when your publisher goes out of business, Stacey Smekofske and Troy Lambert expose the sneaky “in print” clauses and fuzzy contract language that keep authors chained to old publishing deals. They share exactly how to fight back—professionally, persistently, and legally—so you can reclaim your creative freedom.
You’ll learn:
What “in print” really means in modern contracts
How to get your rights reverted (even when your publisher ghosts you)
Why persistence—and a few well-timed emails—can make all the difference
...
2025-10-2513 min
Pros Talking ProseYour Publisher is Out of Business: Now What?Part 1: Reclaiming Your Power When the Publisher Pulls the Plug
What do you do when your publisher suddenly closes its doors?
In this special mini-episode of Pros Talking Prose, Stacey Smekofske and Troy Lambert break down what every author needs to know when the press that published your book goes belly-up.
From the first “don’t panic” moment to the step-by-step checklist for reclaiming your rights, files, and future, this quick chat is packed with insider tips and industry-savvy advice that could save your author career.
You’ll learn:
What to do immediat...
2025-10-2513 min
Pros Talking ProseEvery Book is Marketable: If you Know How to Package it.Why do brilliant books sometimes flop while mediocre ones soar? In this candid episode of Pros Talking Prose, Stacey Smekofske and Troy Lambert unpack the real difference between a “good book” and a marketable one. Spoiler alert: it’s not just about writing skill — it’s about packaging, positioning, and understanding your reader.
In this episode, you’ll learn:
Why craft alone won’t sell your book — and what actually will.
The 3 pillars of a marketable book: craft, packaging, and positioning.
How to turn casual readers into true fans (and stop the churn).
What your cover...
2025-10-1856 min
Pros Talking ProseTide Pods, Alien Probes, & Author Marketing: A Totally Normal ConversationIt's every author’s nightmare: you’ve written a book, hit “publish,” and… crickets.
No sales, no clicks, no clue what to do next.
In this episode of Pros Talking Prose, Stacey Smekofske (Edits by Stacey) and Troy Lambert (The Plot Dude) blow up the myth that there’s a magic formula to selling books.
If you’ve ever:
Spent more on ads than you made in royalties
Felt personally victimized by the word “algorithm”
Wondered why no one is finding your book on Amazon
Tried to “build your brand” without knowing what t...
2025-10-111h 19
Pros Talking ProseStop Googling Your Career: Strategy vs. Tactics That Actually WorkStop Googling your career and actually build one. In this episode of Pros Talking Prose, Stacey Smekofske (Edits by Stacey) and Troy Lambert (The Plot Dude) tackle the biggest trap authors fall into: confusing tactics with strategy. Should you go wide or stay exclusive with KDP Select? Redo your book cover or launch a special edition? Chase the NaNoWriMo word count or slow down to actually hit your long-term goals? We break it all down—without the fluff Google keeps feeding you.
Tune in for:
Why tactics won’t save a broken strategy
How to set...
2025-10-041h 15
Pros Talking ProseThe Publishing Team That Could Make or Break You: How to Choose WiselyBuilding a book is bigger than just writing—it’s about choosing the right team to bring your story to life. Buckle up, this is a long one. In this episode of Pros Talking Prose, Stacey Smekofske (Edits by Stacey) and Troy Lambert (The Plot Dude) pull back the curtain on what really matters when hiring editors, designers, and other key publishing professionals.
Learn how to spot red flags in editors before they derail your book.
Understand the different types of editing (developmental, copy, line, proofreading) and what you really need.
Discover how to vet your...
2025-09-271h 42
Pros Talking ProseThe Author's Responsibility in a Divided WorldIn the wake of recent events, free speech is once again under fire. But what does that mean for authors? In this episode, Stacey Smekofske and Troy Lambert dive deep into the role writers play in shaping conversations, protecting humanity, and telling stories that challenge perspectives without silencing voices.
We’ll tackle:
Why free speech and book banning are inseparable from the author’s mission.
How outrage culture and algorithms trap us in echo chambers.
The difference between harmful speech and the critical conversations we need.
What authors can lear...
2025-09-201h 20
Pros Talking ProseAnthropic Settlement Shocker: Why Most Authors Won’t See a Dime (Unless You Did THIS)Anthropic Settlement Shocker! The motion for settlement in the Anthropic lawsuit has the author world buzzing—but here’s the truth no one’s telling you: most authors won’t see a dime unless they took the right steps before their books were pirated by AI.
In this episode of Pros Talking Prose, Stacey Smekofske (Edits by Stacey) and Troy Lambert break down what the settlement actually means, how it sets a precedent for future lawsuits, and why things like purchasing your own ISBNs, registering your copyright, and distributing through legitimate channels are non-negotiable if you want “teeth in th...
2025-09-131h 01
Pros Talking ProseFrom Spark to Wildfire: Crafting Irresistible First Chapters"It was a pleasure to burn."
Your first chapter can make or break your book, so why not learn from one of the greatest? In this episode of Pros Talking Prose, Stacey and Troy crack open Ray Bradbury’s Fahrenheit 451 to show exactly why its opening pages are unforgettable and how you can steal those techniques for your own writing.
We’ll break down:
The blazing first line that hooks readers instantly
How to introduce a protagonist without info-dumping
Setting the tone, genre, and stakes in just a few pages
Why Bradbury’s worl...
2025-09-051h 45Pros Talking ProseBooks to Blockbusters in a Day?! Michael Evans on the AI Storytelling RevolutionWhat if your book could become a movie in less than 24 hours? In this explosive and possibly controversial episode of Pros Talking Prose, Stacey and Troy sit down with tech innovator and author Michael Evans to talk about The Movie Machine at Creatorwood—an AI-powered platform that turns novels and scripts into full-fledged films.
Is this the future of indie publishing and Hollywood… or the end of creativity as we know it? We dig into the controversy, the possibilities, and what this means for authors, screenwriters, and storytellers everywhere.
Topics we cover:
Can AI r...
2025-08-301h 11Pros Talking ProseSlow the $%^# Down: Quality Over Speed: Building an Author Life That LastsRushing to finish your draft? Racing to hit “publish” before your book is ready? Burning out trying to keep up with other authors? In this episode of Pros Talking Prose, Stacey Smekofske (editor and publishing coach) and Troy Lambert (author, editor, and plot doctor) unpack why the real secret to success in publishing is simple: time.
We break down three key areas where slowing down pays off big:
Writing Journey – Why drafts need to simmer, how beta readers strengthen your story, and why resting between revisions makes you sharper.
Publishing Process – Why editing, cover design, proofs...
2025-08-231h 31Pros Talking ProseStop Describing the Door and Just Leave Already!: How Show Don't Tell Really Works.If your readers know how to open a door, they don’t need three paragraphs explaining it. In this episode of Pros Talking Prose, Stacey and Troy tackle the infamous “show, don’t tell” debate, armed with examples from The Hunger Games, Twilight, Tolkien, Ernest Hemingway, A Quiet Place, and even Wheel of Time.
We dive deep into sensory writing, including how smell, taste, sound, touch, and sight can trigger powerful reader memories (yes, Jacob’s fur and sour milk included). We talk about why “and then” storytelling is killing modern fiction, how to make your setting a living, brea...
2025-08-161h 18Pros Talking ProseAuthors Beware: Audible’s New Plan Could Cost You BigAmazon Strikes Again: Audible’s New Plan Could Gut Your Audiobook Royalties
Amazon’s Audible just pulled a move that could quietly slash indie author earnings, and they’re selling it like it’s a gift to creators. Spoiler: it’s not.
In this episode of Pros Talking Prose, Stacey and Troy rip the shiny wrapping off Audible’s “Premium Plus” rollout to reveal the fine print that could leave authors earning less than ever. Think Kindle Unlimited for audiobooks… but with even more ways for Amazon to keep the cash.
We’re exposing:
How t...
2025-08-091h 05Pros Talking ProseCSI: Crap Scene Investigation - Write Crime RightTrue crime fans and thriller writers, beware: your story might be committing a felony. In this hilariously unfiltered episode, Stacey and Troy dive into the crime-writing crimes that make editors weep and readers rage-quit.
From interrogations without Miranda rights to chairs jammed under hospital doorknobs (yes, that happened), we dissect the rookie mistakes authors make when writing police procedurals, murder mysteries, and true crime-inspired fiction. Whether you're spinning a serial killer saga or just tossing in a body for tension, we’ll help you avoid turning your plot into a cautionary tale.
Topics we interrogate:
Why...
2025-08-021h 33Pros Talking ProseStop Chasing Algorithms: Write Like an ArtisanAre you writing for algorithms or for actual humans? In this refreshingly honest episode of Pros Talking Prose, we’re joined by indie author legend Johnny B. Truant to talk about his upcoming book, The Artisan Author, a rebellious, soul-restoring manifesto for authors who are done with burnout and ready to love writing again.
We dive into:
The myth of rapid release
Why chasing bestseller lists is killing your creativity
How to attract 1,000 true fans (and why that’s enough)
The “Bookstore of You” philosophy
Bringing back the FUN in your author business...
2025-07-261h 10Pros Talking ProseAI Didn’t Kill the Author. You Did.Is AI the villain in the author’s downfall—or are readers, publishers, and even fellow writers part of the problem? In this fiery episode of Pros Talking Prose, Troy and Stacey unpack the emotional, ethical, and legal minefield of AI-generated content in publishing. From TikTok's “100% Human” trend to copyright battles and the philosophical death of the author, we ask the hard questions:
What is authorship in the age of machines?
Can a bot tell a human story—or just mimic one?
And what happens when you can’t tell the difference?
Prepare to get fired up...
2025-07-191h 38Pros Talking ProseScambaiting for Authors: Avoiding Those Inbox TrapsThink your book is getting picked up for a Netflix deal out of the blue? Think again. In this episode of Pros Talking Prose, Stacey and Troy dive headfirst into the glittery garbage fire of scams targeting indie authors. From fake PR packages and “guaranteed” bestsellers to shady Netflix pitches and vanity publishers masquerading as the real deal, we’re calling B.S. on the most common traps in your inbox.
What We Cover:
How scammers find your author info (hint: it’s not witchcraft, it’s public databases)
Why “Congratulations! You’ve been selected…” sho...
2025-07-121h 04Pros Talking ProseBad Reviews and Brutal Trolls - Surviving Negative Reviews Like a ProHaters gonna hate, and trolls gonna troll—but what does that mean for authors? In this episode of Pros Talking Prose, Stacey and Troy dive into the dark, weird, and sometimes hilarious world of negative reviews, trolls, hate mail, and DM drama. From a grandma’s unexpected 3-star critique to a one-star reviewer who can’t spell "plagiarism," they share real-life stories (some absurd, some serious) and offer seasoned advice on how to handle criticism without spiraling.
You’ll hear:
How to respond (or not!) to negative reviews
The difference between trolling and constructive criticism
Why...
2025-07-051h 17Pros Talking ProseStop Shouting "I Have a Gay Friend!" and Other Cringey Author MistakesDiversity in fiction doesn’t mean tossing in a rainbow cast like it’s a checklist. In this episode, Stacey and Troy tackle the awkward, over-the-top, and downright cringey ways authors attempt diversity—and how to actually write inclusive stories that don’t scream “I’m trying too hard.”
We break down:
When and why to include diverse characters
How to avoid stereotypes, soapbox moments, and tokenism
What makes representation authentic (vs. performative)
Real-world writing tips, research advice, and sensitivity reader hacks
Why your story—not your social agenda—should lead the way
Plus, w...
2025-07-051h 01Pros Talking ProseYour Story Came to You in a Dream? SAME!: The Mystical Side of Writing You Can’t ExplainEver woken up at 3 AM with a plot twist so good you were convinced it wasn’t entirely your idea? Yeah—same.
In this episode of Pros Talking Prose, Stacey and Troy go full woo (but keep it grounded) as they explore the mysterious, magical, and mildly unhinged side of the creative process. From dream downloads to possessed plotlines, sacred rituals to intuitive writing, we’re pulling back the veil on the stuff authors don’t always admit out loud. Is it the muse? Is it your subconscious? Or are you just finally letting your brain breathe for five...
2025-06-211h 10Pros Talking ProseYour Characters Aren't Traumatized, They're Going Through Some StuffTired of every protagonist having a tragic backstory, a clinical diagnosis, and a mountain of unresolved childhood trauma? SAME.
In this episode of Pros Talking Prose, Stacey and Troy sit down with licensed therapist and voracious reader Jeanne Anderson to dismantle the overuse of trauma tropes in fiction. We’re talking big T vs. little t trauma, emotional growth without catastrophe, and how to avoid turning your book into a DSM highlight reel.
What real emotional arcs look like
Why “research” means more than scrolling Instagram
How to write psychological depth without clinical crutch...
2025-06-141h 23Pros Talking ProseChasing Bookstore Sales - The Truth About Book Sales and How Authors Make MoneyThink getting your book "in bookstores" guarantees big sales? Think again.
In this brutally honest episode of Pros Talking Prose, publishing coach Stacey Smekofske and author strategist Troy Lambert break down the myths about bookstore distribution, author royalties, and what really moves books. From Amazon algorithms to the truth about IngramSpark and KDP, we're exposing the industry's best-kept secrets—and saving you from strategies that drain your wallet and your will to write.
Whether you're self-publishing or traditionally published, you'll learn:
Why bookstore placement doesn’t equal book sales
Reasons Amazon buries your KDP listing
2025-06-071h 08Pros Talking ProsePublishing Math: The True Cost of Becoming an AuthorThink publishing is just writing a book and hitting “upload”? Think again. In this raw and real episode of Pros Talking Prose, Stacey and Troy break down the true financial equation of getting your book into the world, whether you’re self-publishing, hybrid publishing, or chasing that traditional dream.
This is a long one, and I am sort of sorry about that but there was a lot to cover.
We get into:
What trad publishing really covers (hint: not much)
Why hybrid publishers double dip and what it costs you
How self-publishing can eat your...
2025-05-311h 49Pros Talking ProseBook Marketing Shenanigans: Can Kickstarter Actually Work?Can Kickstarter actually help you market your book, or is it just a time-consuming gimmick wrapped in fancy rewards? In this episode of Pros Talking Prose, Stacey Smekofske and Troy Lambert wade into the wild world of book marketing to unpack what Kickstarter really offers authors.
They discuss:
The real definition of marketing (and why most authors hate it)
Whether Kickstarter is a marketing tool, a funding platform, or both
What kind of authors and books are a good fit for Kickstarter
Why ad campaigns and email lists still matter (even with a killer Kickstar...
2025-05-2456 minPros Talking ProseNobody Knows What They’re Doing (And That’s Okay); The Chaos of Building an Author BusinessIn this brutally honest and wildly relatable episode of Pros Talking Prose, Stacey Smekofske and Troy Lambert unpack everything from conference chaos to business pivots—and the surprising comfort in realizing that none of us have it all figured out.
Fresh from the Storymakers conference in Utah, Stacey shares real talk about fear of failure and why marketing still sends most authors into a full-body cringe. Troy chimes in with his signature snark and seasoned wisdom on why bad advice spreads like glitter, and what indie authors actually need to hear.
Why “nobody knows what they...
2025-05-171h 35Pros Talking ProseHow to Keep Time From Wrecking Your Novel: The Magic and Mayhem of Timelines RevealedThink writing a book with one timeline is hard? Try two. In this episode of Pros Talking Prose, Stacey Smekofske and Troy Lambert dive headfirst into the chaotic brilliance of dual timelines—the literary device that can elevate your story or leave your readers hopelessly confused.
They’ll spill all the tea on:
Why your timelines must be in sync (yes, even fantasy ones)
What genres love a layered timeline (thrillers, we’re looking at you)
Tools, tricks, and tech to keep your timelines from imploding
Revision tips for the brave—and why dual timelines a...
2025-05-101h 08Pros Talking ProseYour Brain Called - It Wants a Day Off: How Authors Can Protect their Mental HealthFeeling fried, frazzled, or just one rejection away from a creative meltdown? In this episode of Pros Talking Prose, Stacey and Troy dive into the mental health side of writing — the part no one talks about, but everyone struggles with.
From managing expectations and protecting your creative energy, to setting boundaries and celebrating small wins, this episode is your reminder that your brain deserves rest, respect, and maybe a snack or two.
Whether you're deep in edits, querying like a maniac, or just trying to remember why you started writing in the first place, this one's fo...
2025-05-031h 03Pros Talking ProsePivot or Perish: Survival Skills for Every Author: Navigate Market Shifts, Trends, & Personal PivotsIn Episode 19 of Pros Talking Prose, we dive deep into a crucial topic every author must face: pivoting in your author career. If you're feeling the shifting winds of the publishing world—declining sales, changing markets, new technologies—you’re not alone. Pivot or perish isn’t just a catchy phrase; it’s the survival skillset every serious author needs.
Join Stacey Smekofske of Edits by Stacey and Print to Pro along with Troy Lambert, The Plot Dude, as they walk you through how to recognize when it’s time to pivot, how to plan your next move without...
2025-05-0155 minPros Talking ProseWhat No One Tells You Until It’s Too Late: The Unspoken Rules of PublishingThink publishing is all about getting that book deal and watching the royalties roll in? Think again. In this episode of Pros Talking Prose, Stacey Smekofske and Troy Lambert are pulling back the curtain on the unspoken (and often uncomfortable) truths about traditional, hybrid, and self-publishing.
We’re talking:
The real reason your book might never get picked up 📉
Why publishers aren’t your fairy godmothers 🧚♀️
The “advance” trap (spoiler: it’s not free money) 💸
What actually happens after you hit "publish" 🚨
And why nobody will ever care about your book as much as you do ❤️🔥
This episod...
2025-05-011h 12Pros Talking ProseWhy Your Email List Is Ghosting You—And How to Get Them BackYou finally sent out that email. You were clever. You added a GIF. You even used your best subject line.
And then… crickets. 🦗
Is your email list giving you the silent treatment? Ghosting you like a bad Tinder date? We’ve been there—and in this episode, we’re bringing the list back to life.
Join publishing pros Stacey Smekofske (of Edits by Stacey) and Troy Lambert (The Plot Dude) as we unpack all the non-boring, effective ways authors can re-engage their email subscribers and turn inbox tumbleweeds into raving fans.
We’re talking:
What’s trending...
2025-05-0149 minPros Talking ProseFrom Lost to Found: Using Genre & Metadata to Skyrocket Book SalesFrom Lost to Found: Using Genre & Metadata to Skyrocket Book Sales
with Stacey Smekofske & Troy Lambert "The Plot Dude”
Ever feel like you picked the wrong genre and now your book is in the witness protection program on Amazon? 😅 You're not alone—and we've got answers.
In this episode of Pros Talking Prose, Stacey and Troy dish on the spicy world of genre and subgenre trends. We’re talking Amazon metadata, BISAC codes, category updates, and how to position your book so it doesn’t end up buried under a pile of vampire cowboys and spicy mermaid thr...
2025-05-011h 09Pros Talking ProseTaxes for Authors: Don't Let the IRS Be Your Plot Twist💸 Taxes for Authors? Don’t Panic — We’ve Got You Covered!
Cue the dramatic music—it's tax season, and authors everywhere are asking the big questions:
🧾 What can I deduct?
📦 Do I need to save these Amazon royalty statements?
💰 Why does the IRS feel like the ultimate plot twist?
In this laugh-so-you-don’t-cry episode of Pros Talking Prose, Stacey and Troy tackle the not-so-glamorous but totally necessary world of taxes for authors. Whether you're self-published, indie, hybrid, or traditionally published, if you're earning income from your writing, this episode is for YOU.
We dive into:...
2025-05-0146 minPros Talking ProseBad Advice for Authors: What Not To DoBuckle up, writers! In this episode of Pros Talking Prose, Stacey Smekofske (Edits by Stacey) and Troy Lambert the Plot Dude spill the literary tea on the worst advice authors keep hearing—and believing. From publishing myths to marketing mayhem and writing rules gone rogue, we’re calling out the cringe, so you don’t have to learn the hard way. 🙈
Do you think:
– “Your book will sell itself!”
– “You don’t need an editor!”
– “Write every day or else!”
Yeah… no.
Whether you're indie, trad, or somewhere in between, this episode is your official permission slip t...
2025-05-011h 29Pros Talking ProseISBN Debate: Buy or Not to Buy, That is the Question📚 FREE vs. PAID ISBNs: To buy or not to buy. That is the question 🤺
Pros Talking Prose Podcast
🔥 Self-publishing authors, LISTEN UP! Are free ISBNs a sneaky trap? Or are purchased ISBNs just a money grab from the publishing overlords? Troy Lambert (The Plot Dude) and Stacey Smekofske (Edits by Stacey) go head-to-head in this spicy debate over one of indie publishing’s most controversial questions. 🤯
💥 Spoiler Alert: The right answer depends on YOUR author goals! Whether you're an indie rebel or a control freak about your publishing empire, we break down the pros, cons, and hidden costs of IS...
2025-05-011h 09Pros Talking ProseLit FalloutStrap in, book nerds—this episode of Pros Talking Prose is bringing the tea, the shade, and the swivel chairs. Stacey Smekofske and Troy Lambert wade into the latest literary landmines: the Romance Writers of America’s bankruptcy spiral, Neil Gaiman’s headline-making drama, the ousting of Ream’s CEO, and more industry shenanigans you didn’t know you needed to know.
But it’s not all gossip and giggles—we’re also dishing out real talk about professionalism, cancel culture, and why being decent still matters (even when everyone’s losing their minds online).
Expect:
🔥 Hot...
2025-05-011h 17Pros Talking ProseAn Authors PurposeTroy & Stacey have an Epic Rant on AI, Authors, and Art!
Welcome to Pros Talking Prose, where Troy Lambert and Stacey Smekofske dive headfirst into the wild world of writing, editing, and publishing! In this episode, they tackle the hot topic of AI and its role in the literary universe, among other things.
Troy, the plot dude extraordinaire, is armed with his trusty manuscript-polishing skills, ready to take on any plot twist thrown his way. Meanwhile, Stacey, the publishing guru, is here to guide authors through the publishing maze faster than you can say "bestseller."
2025-05-011h 22Pros Talking ProseTools that Help Writers and Editors📚 Calling all writers! If you're looking to enhance your writing experience, boost productivity, and create exceptional content, Troy and Stacey got your number. In this video, we explore a curated list of must-have tools that every writer should consider incorporating into their creative arsenal. From brainstorming to polishing your final draft, these resources are designed to make your writing journey smoother and more enjoyable.
Ready to conquer the ever-changing landscape of authorship and find a trusty companion for the adventure? Look no more! Meet Stacey Smekofske, your committed literary guide. As a dynamic freelance full-service editor and an...
2025-05-011h 15Pros Talking ProsePublishing Strategies for a Shifting IndustryIn this episode of Pros Talking Prose, Stacey and Troy don't mince words when they discuss the latest tea in the industry. FindawayVoices ticked off everyone when they changed their contract and were caught red-handed. Amazon keeps changing their algorithm and short-sheeting the self-published author. What does this mean for you?
Listen as Troy and Stacey talk about the ways authors should pivot in this latest tweak to the publishing industry. PIVOT - PIVOT - PIIIIVOOOOOOTTTTT! IYKYK
Listen to these two friends talk shop and you can learn about changing direction, selling your books directly, bestseller lists...
2025-05-011h 03Pros Talking ProseThe Author MindsetIn this episode of Pros Talking Prose, you can be the fly on the wall of a thought-provoking discussion. Listen as Troy and Stacey take a side road and discuss the eternal struggle of writers to finish what they start. In this video, we delve into the mindset shift required to transition from a writer to a successful author. Are you ready to take the leap and commit to making writing a part of your everyday life? By the end of this video, you'll have a clearer understanding of what it takes to embrace the determination and discipline needed...
2025-05-0115 minPros Talking ProseGood vs Bad Advice for AuthorsIn this no-holds-barred edition of Pros Talking Prose, the illustrious Troy Lambert and publishing guru, Stacey from Edits by Stacey, rip apart the laughably outdated advice peddled to unsuspecting authors. They're ripping the curtain down from around the wizard and telling you what actually works. It's 2024, folks, and these relics have no place in the arsenal of a modern author. If you're fishing for the secret sauce to book-selling riches, perk up your ears because they're spilling the beans on how to be an author in the know. Miss this episode, and you might as well be writing by c...
2025-05-011h 19Pros Talking ProseYes, You Can Write HumorEvery scribbler, scribe, and pen-wielder on a quest to jazz up their writings knows that crafting a chuckle is no cakewalk. After all, humor's a slippery eel in the toolbox of literary gizmos – you can't just waggle your eyebrows or nudge your reader in the ribs through the page. Instead, you've got to be a timekeeper and a mind-reader, dishing out giggles with pinpoint precision. Let's face it, when you're aiming for laughter in your magnum opus, you can't afford to have the whoopee cushion go off at the wrong moment.
Looking for a guide as you jo...
2025-05-011h 10Pros Talking ProseShake Off Writers BlockEpisode 5 of Pros Talking Prose. Troy and Stacey discuss the triggers and possible causes of writer's block. They also will talk to you about how imposter syndrome and perfectionism may lead to your inability to write what you want. These two professional editors and writers will discuss the tips and tricks from other professionals, scientists, and therapists that can help a writer overcome writer's block. It is important that you get the information you need to combat this debilitating obstacle.
Troy and Stacey will help you get your writing game back on.
Your Pros are Stacey...
2025-05-0147 minPros Talking ProseHow Pros Define Quality WritingGet the skinny on writing a book that will make readers laugh, cry, or reach for the fireplace poker and hide under their blanket. Editors, agents, publishers, and the paying public are looking to be entertained and/or informed. Not only is it important to provide quality content that doesn't ramble like your father on a tirade, but it is vital to write clearly so that you can hold interest. Your job as the writer is to fulfill the job of feeding the information hole, thereby making wishes come true. Maybe that is a bit dramatic, but you get...
2025-05-011h 05Pros Talking ProseHow to Avoid Bad Publishing DealsNot all publishing paths are created equal—and some will cost you way more than just money. In this episode of Pros Talking Prose, industry veterans Stacey Smekofske and Troy Lambert break down the red flags of vanity and overpriced hybrid publishers.
🚨 Learn what shady contracts look like
📉 Avoid the promises that sound too good to be true
🛠️ Discover how to protect your rights, your wallet, and your future
If you're an author navigating publishing options, don’t sign anything until you listen to this episode. Stacey and Troy will arm you with the knowledge t...
2025-05-0148 minPros Talking Prose9 Tips for Success As an AuthorThink writing a book is the hard part? Try turning it into a full-time gig. In this no-fluff episode of Pros Talking Prose, publishing pros Stacey Smekofske and Troy Lambert break down the real work of running an author business. These 9 essential tips go beyond the basics, covering mindset, marketing, money, and more. If you're serious about building a lasting author career (and not just hoping your book goes viral), this is the episode you can't afford to skip. What it really takes to go pro Why it’s a business, not a lottery ticket How to make your au...
2025-05-011h 09Pros Talking ProseAI Friend or FoeAI isn’t coming for authors — it’s already here, typing away with suspiciously good grammar. In this episode, Stacey Smekofske and resident AI wrangler Troy Lambert pull back the curtain on how artificial intelligence is reshaping the writing world faster than you can say "Ctrl+Z."
Is it time to welcome your new robot coauthor with a high five? Or start hoarding canned goods and sharpening pencils like medieval weapons? Either way, you need to know what's happening — and how to ride the AI wave without wiping out.
Join us for an honest, hilarious, and slig...
2025-04-281h 32
Pros Talking ProsePros Talking Pros TrailerReady for real talk about writing, publishing, and building a sustainable author career?
Pros Talking Prose brings you unfiltered advice, honest conversations, and plenty of laughs from industry pros Stacey Smekofske and Troy Lambert.
We cover the writing craft, the business side of books, and all the messy realities they don’t tell you about — with practical tips to help you thrive at every stage of your journey.
Hit subscribe and join us for weekly episodes that will fuel your creativity, sharpen your strategy, and remind you why you started this crazy writing adventure in the...
2025-04-2800 min
The Tyler Wagner ShowStacey Smekofske: Editor & Coach for Independent AuthorsStacey Smekofske joins us on The Authors Unite Show!
This episode is brought to you by Authors Unite.
Authors Unite provides you with all the resources you need to become a successful author. You can learn more about Authors Unite here: https://authorsunite.com/
Thank you for listening to The Authors Unite Show!
Tyler
2019-09-2721 min