Best James Blatch Podcasts (2025)

1
039 - How Many Authors Now Use AI? 48:15

1d ago48:15

48:15

In this week's episode James & Cara review BookBub's author survey on attitudes to AI. You can read the survey using the link below. We also discuss our current work-in-progress and reflect on last week's Patreon Live Q&A! Links: Patreon: https://www.indiewritersclub.com/support BookBub Author AI Survey: https://insights.bookbub.com/how-authors-are…

1
038 - GLADIATOR II: What a Mess! 53:37

9d ago53:37

53:37

In this episode we review and dissect Ridley's Scott's sequel to the incredible film Gladiator. Spoiler alert, we did not use the expression 'incredible' to describe it... LINKS: Support us via our Patreon and take part in a live monthly Q&A among other great perks: patreon.com/indiewritersclub Head to prowritingaid.com and use code IWC15 for 15% o…

1
037 - How to Get Your Book Made into a Hollywood Film! 56:29

16d ago56:29

56:29

In this special episode, James is joined by Hollywood scriptwriter Tom Donnelly. They discuss the chances of getting your book optioned and how to create a story that will grip your reader. Support the showBy James Blatch & Cara Clare

1
036 - Indie News Round Up 42:18

24d ago42:18

42:18

In this episode of the Indie Writers Club, James reports back from the Global Publishing Summit in Seville, they discuss the launch of a men only publishing house and they discuss James' venture into AI translations. Links: Join our Patreon: https://www.indiewritersclub.com/support Support the showBy James Blatch & Cara Clare

1
035 - Character First Writing 38:10

1M ago38:10

38:10

In this episode of the Indie Writers Club, James & Cara revisit the topic of Character. Story versus character is a debate we had in an earlier episode and we decided that the perfect outcome is when your characters lead the story and when the story changes your characters. As Sharon Horgan says...people remember the characters long after they've f…

1
034 - Selling Your Backlist 33:05

1M ago33:05

33:05

James reports from an author mastermind event in Aruba (not in Mexico, it turns out). They discuss various tips and ideas especially around selling your existing titles. Also - try out the Google Animation tool on your covers: https://aistudio.google.com/generate-video Support the showBy James Blatch & Cara Clare

1
033 - Self Publishing News & Trends 51:10

2M ago51:10

51:10

In this episode James & Cara discuss the week's developments in the indie world and James starts an experiment to see if AI translation service Scribeshadow can do a good enough job on his novels to launch them in France with no human intervention. Support the showBy James Blatch & Cara Clare

1
032 - Writing in a Series for Optimal Sales 44:06

2M ago44:06

44:06

In this episode James & Cara discuss the latest developments in the world of publishing and they discuss how to write in a series or serial to maximise book sales. Support the Show and get exclusive benefits by joining our Patreon: https://www.indiewritersclub.com/support Support the showBy James Blatch & Cara Clare

1
031 - Patreon Launch 46:31

2M ago46:31

46:31

It's your chance to become a part of the IWC and help us stay on air. Head to indiewritersclub.com/support to sign up. Support the showBy James Blatch & Cara Clare

1
030 - Did Meta Steal Your Book? 56:26

2M ago56:26

56:26

We discuss the use by Meta of pirated versions of books to build their AI. And we talk about our own action points from the fabulous Ireland's Publishing Show. Useful links: Check if your book has been pirated on LibGen: https://www.theatlantic.com/technology/archive/2025/03/search-libgen-data-set/682094/ Free PDF - Five Immediate Actions Indie Aut…

1
029 - Does AI Hate Your Novel? 35:50

2M ago35:50

35:50

In this episode Cara and James road test a new AI manuscript analysis tool from seasoned experts, ProWritingAid. The results were...unexpected. Try out the tool yourself: indiewritersclub.com/pwa Support the showBy James Blatch & Cara Clare

1
028 - Self Publishing's Public Image 52:26

3M ago52:26

52:26

In this episode of the Indie Writers Club, James & Cara discuss Bill Bryson's reported attack on self publishing and the wider perception of our industry. Links: One place left in the IWC Cambridge Writers Retreat: indiewritersclub.com/retreat Support the showBy James Blatch & Cara Clare

1
027 - Book Launch Strategies 45:24

3M ago45:24

45:24

In this episode of the Indie Writers Club, Cara and James discuss the tips and tricks for gaining maximum visibility for your book launch. Resources: Self Publishing Launchpad online course: learnselfpublishing.com/launchpad Five Must Do Actions for New Authors (free PDF): indiewritersclub.com/fiveactions Support the show…

1
026 - Do Facebook Ads Still Work? 33:28

3M ago33:28

33:28

Indie authors have used Facebook (Meta) ads since day one, but we need to be honest with ourselves - are they still performing? Cara and James discuss the changes that have happened, particularly since the privacy scandals. Support the showBy James Blatch & Cara Clare

1
025 - Translate Your Novel into German 38:21

3M ago38:21

38:21

Welcome to the Indie Writers Club, a place to chat about all things self publishing. In episode 025, James & Cara discuss different ways to get your novels translated into German. It's a fast growing market and it can be the different between profit and loss for some authors. Grab the final IWC Writing Retreat slots: indiewritersclub.com/retreat Su…

1
024 - Can You Copyright An AI Novel? 1:00:16

4M ago1:00:16

1:00:16

Join Cara & James as they discuss the latest developments in the ongoing saga of AI and copyright legalities. Join the waitlist for the inaugural IWC Writers' Retreat: indiewritersclub.com/retreat Support the showBy James Blatch & Cara Clare

1
023 How to Develop Your Main Character 1:12:34

4M ago1:12:34

1:12:34

They come for the story but stay for the characters... That's how important character development is. In this episode we explore why character is crucial, when it's good, when it's not so good and some practical tips on getting your development to help your plot. Useful links: Retreat waitlist: https://www.indiewritersclub.com/retreat Ireland's Pub…

1
022 - The 22 Rules of Storytelling 48:55

4M ago48:55

48:55

The 22 rules of storytelling from Emma Coats, a former Pixar writer, have been doing the rounds for years and for good reason. Although Emma herself now describes them as guidelines, rather than rules, they are seen as the foundation on which the best novels are built. Cara and James go through them one by one. Useful links: Retreat waitlist: https…

1
021 - How to Deal with Bad Reviews 48:55

4M ago48:55

48:55

We all get One Star reviews. But when should we take them seriously and when can they be safely ignored? In this episode we talk about our own hurtful reviews and talk about coping strategies. Useful links: The IWC Retreat: indiewritersclub.com/retreat Ireland's Publishing Show: indiewritersclub.com/ireland Support the show…

1
020 - Everyday Wisdom to Guide Your Decisions 51:20

5M ago51:20

51:20

In this episode of the Indie Writers Club, Cara Clare and James Blatch discuss various topics including the potential ban of TikTok in the US, the importance of diversifying social media presence, and the planning of an indie writers retreat. They delve into productivity techniques known as 'razors', exploring how these principles can simplify deci…

1
019 - How Much Did We Earn in 2024? 50:10

5M ago50:10

50:10

In this episode of the Indie Writers Club, James & Cara discuss their ad spend and book revenue for 2024. Support the showBy James Blatch & Cara Clare

1
018 - Self Publishing in 2025 50:05

5M ago50:05

50:05

Happy New Year from the Indie Writers Club. In the first episode of 2025, Cara and James discuss what's in store for indie authors in the next twelve months. They also set out their own goals for the year. Useful Links: SPS Live London 2025: https://www.learnselfpublishing.com/spslive WWM's Predictions for 2025: https://www.writtenwordmedia.com/the…

1
017 - Christmas Special from the Pub 18:33

5M ago18:33

18:33

James & Cara are down the pub with a couple of author friends to reflect on 2024. Many thanks to our friends at The Salisbury Arms in Cambridge! Support the showBy James Blatch & Cara Clare

1
016 - Get Your Writing Done! 49:42

5M ago49:42

49:42

James returns. Cara chats to Sacha Black about productivity tips. Our next episode will be a live recording from a pub, released on Christmas Day! Support the showBy James Blatch & Cara Clare

1
015 - What's Up With Facebook Ads? 54:36

6M ago54:36

54:36

In this episode James & Cara discuss the latest tips and tricks with Meta Ads (Facebook & Instagram). Join the discussion: https://indiewritersclub.com/discord Sign up for episode alerts: https://indiewritersclub.com Support the showBy James Blatch & Cara Clare

1
014 Big News Episode 48:20

6M ago48:20

48:20

There's so much news about in indie publishing, James & Cara take time to digest and analyse: A new deal for Audio Books from ACX A new Publishing Assistant from publishdrive.com Trad moving in on indie direct selling special editions technique A misleading headline about 8,000 AI books/year from a publisher A new way to work with ChatGPT Check out…

1
013 - Is it legal for AI to learn from our books? 1:02:46

6M ago1:02:46

1:02:46

James is back from AuthorNation in Las Vegas. During this week's Indie Writers Club episode James discusses the legal presentation from Alicia Wright regarding the law, ethics and AI. If you want to sign up for AuthorNation 2025 click here: https://claymore.krtra.com/t/YCtI1A27yXCp And join the Indie Writers Club mailing list to be first to hear ab…

1
012 - That First Draft Mountain 34:51

7M ago34:51

34:51

Get episode alerts at indiewritersclub.com Join the discussion at indiewritersclub.com/discord Summary In this episode of the Indie Writers Club, Cara Clare and James Blatch discuss their experiences at a recent writers' conference in Las Vegas. They share insights on the conference's attendance, the quality of sessions, and the importance of netwo…

1
011 - Which Author Show Should I Go To? 52:27

7M ago52:27

52:27

It's the Indie Writers Club! Links: The Self Publishing Show Live! https://learnselfpublishing.com/spslive Author Nation (Vegas): https://www.authornation.live/ Ireland's Publishing Show (March): https://irelandspublishingshow.com/ NINC (Florida, September): https://ninc.com/ In this episode, James and Cara progress during NaNoWriMo, the importance…

1
010 - How Much do Indie Authors Earn? 1:21:09

7M ago1:21:09

1:21:09

Useful links: WWM Survey: indiewritersclub.com/survey Publish Drive Offer: indiewritersclub.com/publishdrive Join the Discord Discussion: indiewritersclub.com/discord In this episode of the Indie Writers Club, Cara and James discuss their personal updates, including writing progress and the upcoming NaNoWriMo challenge. The conversation shifts to t…

1
009 - How to Get Reviews (and deal with bad ones) 1:02:58

7M ago1:02:58

1:02:58

James and Cara discuss the importance of book reviews in building an author's reputation. The conversation delves into strategies for obtaining reviews, the significance of targeting the right audience, and how to handle negative feedback with resilience and perspective. Links: Publish Drive offer: indiewritersclub.com/publishdrive Discord Server: …

1
008 - Why Your Books Don't Sell - Part 2 1:06:22

8M ago1:06:22

1:06:22

In episode 008, James & Cara continue to analyse the key ingredients that maybe missing from your book, for your ads to generate sales. Check out the amazing offer from Publish Drive, 50% off annual subscription plans! https://publishdrive.com/50-off-all-yearly-plans Learn Self Publishing's Ads for Authors course is open: https://learnselfpublishin…

1
007 - Why Your Books Don't Sell - Part 1 1:08:59

8M ago1:08:59

1:08:59

In this episode of the Indie Writers Club, hosts James and Cara discuss the importance of having a well-prepared book package for successful advertising, the impact of AI on the publishing industry, and the significance of understanding genre expectations. They also share personal updates, insights on social media dynamics for authors, and the nece…

1
006 - What else can you do as a writer? 41:20

8M ago41:20

41:20

Summary In this episode of the Indie Writers Club, hosts Cara Clare and James Blatch discuss alternative income streams for writers, focusing on ghostwriting and non-fiction opportunities. They explore the benefits of ghostwriting, including collaborative writing processes and reliable income, while also emphasizing the importance of diversifying i…

1
005 - Can TikTok Still Sell Books? 47:30

8M ago47:30

47:30

James & Cara discuss TikTok and it's impact on the book market and whether it's still a place where authors can find new readers. Useful links: Our TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@indie.writers.clu The Discord Server: indiewritersclub.com/discord PublishDrive: publishdrive.com Summary In this episode of the Indie Writers Club, hosts Cara Clare and …

1
004 - Author Scams 31:04

8M ago31:04

31:04

Cara & James discuss the many scams awaiting the unwary indie author. Sign up for alerts and never miss an episode: indiewritersclub.com Join the discussion: indiewritersclub.com/discord Shownotes for 004 Links: https://www.alamy.com/ - Huge library of archive photographs, including publicity and news. https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/rubyroe/n…

1
003 - To Plot Or Pants 40:36

9M ago40:36

40:36

Summary In this episode, Cara Clare and James Blatch discuss their writing progress and strategies. They talk about their word count goals and the challenges of writing during the summer holidays. They also discuss the benefits of accountability and writing sprints. The conversation then shifts to the topic of plotting and pantsing. Cara shares her…

1
002 - Character vs Plot. 44:41

9M ago44:41

44:41

Summary In this episode, James and Cara discuss the balance between character and plot in writing. They share their own writing projects and word count goals, and explore how different genres prioritize character development and plot progression. They also discuss the importance of finding the right balance between character and plot to create a sa…

1
001 - What is the Indie Writers Club? 18:48

9M ago18:48

18:48

Summary In this episode, hosts Cara Clare and James Blatch introduce themselves and the purpose of the podcast. They discuss their backgrounds as authors and their experiences in the publishing industry. They also explain how listeners can get involved in the podcast through the Discord server and Facebook group. The hosts emphasize that the podcas…

1
The Indie Writers Club is coming... 1:00

9M ago1:00

1:00

News of a new podcast for writers from James Blatch. Join the alerts list at indiewritersclub.com Support the showBy James Blatch & Cara Thurlbourn

1
SPS- 432: The Final Cut with James Blatch, Joe Solari from Author Nation, and Darren Hardy from Amazon KDP. 1:16:58

10M ago1:16:58

1:16:58

James talks to Joe Solari, the man responsible for the world’s largest gathering of indie authors and Darren Hardy, from Amazon KDP, who is the most listened to guest we’ve ever had on the show.By Learn Self Publishing

1
SPS-431: Support for Self Publishing with Draft2Digital 31:10

12M ago31:10

31:10

Nick Thacker VP of Author Success at Draft2Digital joins James to dive into what's new and what D2D can offer the self publishing world.By Learn Self Publishing

1
SPS-430: The New Content Creation Place with Marco Moutinho from Dibbly 35:47

12M ago35:47

35:47

James talks to Marco Moutinho from Dibbly, a content creation platform, which can help you with freelance services. Dibbly also offers an AI tool ‘Kip’ that has some fantastic features to offer the indie author.By Learn Self Publishing

1
SPS-429: How do you strategise and what is the best way to invest in editing? 43:38

12M ago43:38

43:38

This week James talks to bestseller Suzy K Quinn and editor Adam Strange from Kevin Anderson & Associates, who brings a wealth of knowledge and experience on editing to the show.By Learn Self Publishing

1
SPS-428: The BookBub new release - Rocket boost 24:20

1y ago24:20

24:20

Join James and Carlyn Robertson from BookBub talking about what's new at BookBub and what BookBub can offer.By Learn Self Publishing

1
SPS-427: Direct Selling FTW with Alex Smith from Bookvault 25:05

1y ago25:05

25:05

A fast emerging aspect of indie marketing is direct selling. Bookvault have risen quickly to the top of many authors go-to suppliers for print-on-demand, especially for those special editions that can be extremely good for your bottom line. This week’s show features a chat with Bookvault’s Alex Smith.…

1
SPS-426: Format your book in style with Vellum 33:20

1y ago33:20

33:20

Vellum is the gold standard for editing your book ready for publication. Listen as James Blatch talks to Brad West about tips for preparing your bookBy Learn Self Publishing

1
SPS-425: Which Book Promo is Right For Me? with Mike Hourigan 33:16

1y ago33:16

33:16

Listen as James talks to Mike Hourigan who is the Vice President of Marketing at Written Word Media, where he brings more than 15 years of digital marketing expertise to the table.By Learn Self Publishing

1
SPS-424: What’s the big deal about Romantasy? With Alex Newton 41:37

1y ago41:37

41:37

Join James and the numbers man, Alex Newton from K-lytics who digs beneath the Romantasy data and explains current trendsBy Learn Self Publishing

1
SPS-423: Create a Killer Author Website – with Stuart Grant from Digital Authors Toolkit 34:38

1y ago34:38

34:38

Join James Blatch and Stuart Grant from Digital Authors Toolkit and also the highest rated web designer on Reedsy, as they discuss the future of Author websites, direct selling, and how you can make your website stand out.By Learn Self Publishing

Podcasts Worth a Listen

James Blatch Podcasts

Podcasts Worth a Listen