x

75% of people globally want unbiased news (Pew Research) but are concerned they're not getting that.

Get balanced coverage with Symby. See how stories are covered across diverse outlets and spot when one side covers a story the other skips.

PODCAST

Pros Talking Prose

Stacey Smekofske

Writing a book is hard. Publishing it is even harder. Succeeding as an author? That’s practically wizardry. Good thing you don’t have to figure it all out alone. Pros Talking Prose is your backstage pass to the writing and publishing world, hosted by seasoned pros Stacey Smekofske and Troy Lambert. We’ll help you skip the mistakes, laugh through the chaos, and build the writing career you actually want without the smoke and mirrors. New episodes every week. Therapy not included — but highly

arts books

All Episodes

01:01:03

Ep 29: Stop Shouting "I Have a Gay Friend!" and Other...

Pros Talking Prose ·

2025/07/05

Diversity 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

en

01:10:21

Ep 27: Your Story Came to You in a Dream? SAME!: The...

Pros Talking Prose ·

2025/06/21

Ever 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

en

01:23:00

Your Characters Aren't Traumatized, They're Going...

Pros Talking Prose ·

2025/06/14

Tired 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

en

01:08:20

Ep 25: Chasing Bookstore Sales - The Truth About Book...

Pros Talking Prose ·

2025/06/07

Think 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

en

01:49:43

Ep 24: Publishing Math: The True Cost of Becoming an...

Pros Talking Prose ·

2025/05/31

Think 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

en

56:45

Ep 23: Book Marketing Shenanigans: Can Kickstarter...

Pros Talking Prose ·

2025/05/24

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

en

01:35:28

Ep 22: Nobody Knows What They’re Doing (And That’s...

Pros Talking Prose ·

2025/05/17

In 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

en

01:08:41

EP 21: How to Keep Time From Wrecking Your Novel: The...

Pros Talking Prose ·

2025/05/10

Think 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

en

01:03:58

Ep 20: Your Brain Called - It Wants a Day Off: How...

Pros Talking Prose ·

2025/05/03

Feeling 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

en

55:29

Ep 19: Pivot or Perish: Survival Skills for Every...

Pros Talking Prose ·

2025/05/01

In 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

en

01:12:39

Ep 18: What No One Tells You Until It’s Too Late: The...

Pros Talking Prose ·

2025/05/01

Think 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

en

49:19

Ep 17: Why Your Email List Is Ghosting You—And How to...

Pros Talking Prose ·

2025/05/01

You 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

en

01:09:49

Ep 16: From Lost to Found: Using Genre & Metadata to...

Pros Talking Prose ·

2025/05/01

From 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

en

46:54

Ep 15: Taxes for Authors: Don't Let the IRS Be Your...

Pros Talking Prose ·

2025/05/01

💸 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

en

01:29:32

Ep 14: Bad Advice for Authors: What Not To Do

Pros Talking Prose ·

2025/05/01

Buckle 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

en

01:09:16

Ep 13: ISBN Debate: Buy or Not to Buy, That is the...

Pros Talking Prose ·

2025/05/01

📚 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

en

01:17:11

Ep 12: Lit Fallout

Pros Talking Prose ·

2025/05/01

Strap 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

en

01:22:16

Ep 11: An Authors Purpose

Pros Talking Prose ·

2025/05/01

Troy & 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

en

01:15:30

Ep 10: Tools that Help Writers and Editors

Pros Talking Prose ·

2025/05/01

📚 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

en

01:03:58

Ep 9: Publishing Strategies for a Shifting Industry

Pros Talking Prose ·

2025/05/01

In 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

en

49 results

Similar Podcasts

Start The Breakthrough Full Audiobook Now, Thriller Fans!

thebookvoice.com

Get Hooked On The Life-Enhancing Full Audiobook Experience!

thebookvoice.com

西四五条

主播郑捕头

Podcast Patapoe

0d0a

On Mic Podcast

Jordan Rich