Wish I'd Known Then Podcast

Hosts

• Sarah Rosette
• Jamie Albright

Special Guest

• Theodora Taylor

Main Topics

Theodora Taylor's New Book on Universal Fantasy

• Discusses her book on universal fantasy and its application across genres.
• Universal fantasy elements make work more appealing by tapping into common human desires and fantasies.
• Examples include motifs from movies like "Beauty and the Beast", "Notting Hill", "Knives Out", and "Crazy Rich Asians".
• Universal fantasies differ from tropes; they are the underlying reason why certain tropes are loved.

Personal Journeys in Writing

• Theodora shares her journey from a music journalist, playwright, and radio writer to a romance novelist.
• Writing journey includes challenges and learning from early writing efforts.
• Importance of viewing writing as a continuous improvement journey.

Theodora's Advice for New Authors

• Writing in series can enhance backlist profitability.
• Consider series setup from the beginning for sustainable income.
• Don’t be afraid to explore different genres; it can diversify an author's portfolio and lead to unexpected success.

Marketing Insights

• Set up backlist to support new releases for sustained income generation.
• Importance of series starters in marketing strategy.

Personal Definitions of Success

• Success is evolving; initially about income, later about personal and professional goals.
• Important to onboard family into the business for better work-life balance.

Challenges of Indie Writing

• Misconceptions about writing one big book leading to permanent success.
• Realization that writing is a long-term career with ongoing learning.

Entertainment Recommendations

• Sarah recommends the Netflix movie "Red Notice" for light entertainment.
• Jamie talks about rewatching "The Matrix" in anticipation of the new release.

Personal Updates

• Sarah is busy with writing, translations, and holiday preparations.
• Jamie is preparing for Thanksgiving with family and recovering from a foot procedure.

Question of the Week

• What universal fantasy or trope draws you to a book or movie?

Final Thoughts

• Theodora provides insight into combining universal fantasies with storytelling.
• Listeners are encouraged to explore more about universal fantasies through Theodora's book and discussions.

Contact Information

• Theodora Taylor's works are available wherever books are sold.
• Join her Facebook group or visit her website for more insights on universal fantasies.

Notes for Further Study:

• Explore the concept of universal fantasy further by reading Theodora Taylor's book "Seven Figure Fiction".
• Consider how universal fantasies can be incorporated into your own writing to broaden appeal across genres.
• Reflect on personal writing and marketing strategies in light of advice from experienced authors like Theodora.