Encore: The Launch Reality — What Book Launches Are Really Like

I've noted that Elizabeth Gilbert is everywhere this week with the launch of her new book, All the Way to the River. It reminded me of two episodes of The Download. In my very first episode, I spoke about the influence of her brilliant book on creativity, Big Magic, on my creative path. And in this episode — one of my most listened-to — I explored the reality of launches.

Because let’s be honest: most of our launches don’t look like Liz Gilbert high-fiving with Oprah. They’re smaller, messier, and often not what we expect.

And yet they’re no less powerful for that.

So this week I’m resurfacing Uploading the Download Back into Space – The Launch Reality. Whether you’re launching a book, a business (like my fiction editor mentees!), or a new version of yourself, I hope it helps you see the beauty in your own process.

👉 Want to hear my first-ever episode, Harnessing the Power of Downloads in Your Creative Journey, where I talk about Big Magic and creativity? Listen here: Episode One of The Download
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The Launch Reality: Beyond the Glitz

In this encore episode, I revisit the theme of launches, inspired by Elizabeth Gilbert’s latest release. Drawing from my own experiences with book launches and other creative endeavours, I contrast the glossy portrayals in media with the far less glamorous reality. Launches, I suggest, are less about instant commercial success and more about celebrating the creative process and the people involved.

⏱️ Episode Timestamps

00:00 Welcome and Introduction
00:53 The Reality of Launches
02:11 Personal Experiences with Book Launches
03:08 Misconceptions from TV and Film
04:43 A Memorable Launch Event
07:24 The True Purpose of a Launch
08:03 Conclusion and Farewell

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