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Pen to Paycheck Authors

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Rating
★★★★★
4.6
from
8 reviews
Categories
Country
United States
This podcast has
148 episodes
Language
English
Explicit
No
Date created
2024/01/15
Latest episode
2026/11/11
Average duration
59 min.
Release period
8 days

Description

Welcome to pen to Paycheck Authors podcast. We’re two indie authors; Matilda Swift, author of quintessentially British Cozy Mysteries, and Sam Cummings, author of Young Adult books about magic, myths, and monsters. With over a dozen books between us, and still a long way to go towards the ‘quit the day job’ dream, we’re here to write our way to financial success. Listen along for our mastery through missteps journey

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How We’re Starting New Series
2026/11/11
Samantha and Matilda are both writing new series, and this week, they’re discussing everything that comes with that, including new processes, skill worries, and editorial planning. Next week, Sam and Matilda are talking about their new 30-day Social Media challenge. Support the podcast by buying us a coffee (and a slice of cake if you’re feeling generous): https://ko-fi.com/pentopaycheckauthorspodcast/ Join us for more mastery through missteps…en masse. Yes, we’ve got a DISCORD, and you’re invited: https://discord.gg/w7BjxmeXfF Where to find Sam and Matilda: SAM IG: @sammowrimo Website: www.samantha-cummings.com Substack: https://samwritesbooks.substack.com/ Book to start with: Curse of the Wild - https://books2read.com/curseofthewild   (Moons & Magic Book 1) Most recent book: The Arcane Curios - https://books2read.com/The-Arcane-Curios (Deighton Academy Book 3) MATILDA IG: @matildaswiftauthor Website: MatildaSwift.com Book to start with: https://books2read.com/TheSlayoftheLand (book #1 of The Heathervale Mysteries) Most recent book: https://books2read.com/TheTamingOfTheStew (book #7 of The Parchment Paper Mysteries) Mentioned on the show: Ines Johnson’s book club (read the info at the top): tinyurl.com/RLAWBC Th Dialogue Doctor podcast: https://dialoguedoctor.com/the-podcast/ The Serpent and the Wings of Night by Carissa Broadbent: https://www.amazon.com/dp/1250343186/ Vera Wong's Unsolicited Advice for Murderers by Jesse Q. Sutanto: https://www.amazon.com/dp/0593549228/ Other podcasts you can hear us on: Self Publishing Insiders (with Draft to Digital) Episode 274: Mastery Through Missteps: Demystifying the Quit the Day Job Dream Ink in Your Veins (with Rachael Herron) Episode 552: On Being Precious About Nothing Wish I’d Known Then for Writers (with Sara Rosett and Jami Albright) Episode 254: From Mastermind to Discord: The Power of Community with Samantha Cummings Episode 249: Matilda Swift on Overcoming Self-Doubt and Innovative Reader Magnets Write it Scared (with Stacy Frazer) Episode 119: The Power of the “Right” Writing Community: Find Your Folks and Keep Going
How We’re Growing Our Audacity
2026/11/04
Samantha and Matilda are building their audacity, looking at what they’re missing to have the confidence of other creators and how to add that to their brands. Next week, Sam and Matilda are reflecting on the new series they’re starting and discussing what’s going right and wrong so far. Support the podcast by buying us a coffee (and a slice of cake if you’re feeling generous): https://ko-fi.com/pentopaycheckauthorspodcast/ Join us for more mastery through missteps…en masse. Yes, we’ve got a DISCORD, and you’re invited: https://discord.gg/w7BjxmeXfF Where to find Sam and Matilda: SAM IG: @sammowrimo Website: www.samantha-cummings.com Substack: https://samwritesbooks.substack.com/ Book to start with: Curse of the Wild - https://books2read.com/curseofthewild   (Moons & Magic Book 1) Most recent book: The Arcane Curios- https://books2read.com/The-Arcane-Curios  (Deighton Academy Book 3) MATILDA IG: @matildaswiftauthor Website: MatildaSwift.com Book to start with: https://books2read.com/TheSlayoftheLand (book #1 of The Heathervale Mysteries) Most recent book: https://books2read.com/TheTamingOfTheStew (book #7 of The Parchment Paper Mysteries) Mentioned on the show: Becca Syme’s patreon (Matilda is on the Microcoaching level) Becca Syme | Membership | Patreon Jericho Writers mentoring: https://jerichowriters.com/creative-writing-courses/novel-writing-mentors/ Other podcasts you can hear us on: Self Publishing Insiders (with Draft to Digital) Episode 274: Mastery Through Missteps: Demystifying the Quit the Day Job Dream Ink in Your Veins (with Rachael Herron) Episode 552: On Being Precious About Nothing Wish I’d Known Then for Writers (with Sara Rosett and Jami Albright) Episode 254: From Mastermind to Discord: The Power of Community with Samantha Cummings Episode 249: Matilda Swift on Overcoming Self-Doubt and Innovative Reader Magnets Write it Scared (with Stacy Frazer) Episode 119: The Power of the “Right” Writing Community: Find Your Folks and Keep Going
How To Learn From Your Comps
2026/10/28
Samantha and Matilda are closely looking at the comps for their new books, and they’re analysing what works in their craft and why. Next week, Sam and Matilda are returning to a favourite topic - audacity! How can they think bigger for their author careers? Support the podcast by buying us a coffee (and a slice of cake if you’re feeling generous): https://ko-fi.com/pentopaycheckauthorspodcast/ Join us for more mastery through missteps…en masse. Yes, we’ve got a DISCORD, and you’re invited: https://discord.gg/w7BjxmeXfF Where to find Sam and Matilda: SAM IG: @sammowrimo Website: www.samantha-cummings.com Substack: https://samwritesbooks.substack.com/ Book to start with: Curse of the Wild - https://books2read.com/curseofthewild   (Moons & Magic Book 1) Most recent book: Star Crossed Curses - https://books2read.com/Star-crossed-curses (Deighton Academy Book 2) MATILDA IG: @matildaswiftauthor Website: MatildaSwift.com Book to start with: https://books2read.com/TheSlayoftheLand (book #1 of The Heathervale Mysteries) Most recent book: https://books2read.com/TheTamingOfTheStew (book #7 of The Parchment Paper Mysteries) Mentioned on the show: Katabasis by RF Kuang: https://www.amazon.com/dp/006302148X/ Starchaser by RM Grey: https://www.amazon.com/dp/0316583391/ Nightweaver by RM Grey: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0D6DMR7G1/ Blood & Betrayals by Jeanette Rose and Alexis Rune: https://www.amazon.com/dp/1668230399/ Modern Divination by Isa Agajanian: https://www.amazon.com/dp/1035049988/ Boys with Sharp Teeth by Jenni Howell: https://www.amazon.com/dp/1250334594/ The Spellshop by Sarah Beth Durst: https://www.amazon.com/dp/1250324602/ There be Dragons Here by SL Rowland: https://www.amazon.com/dp/1964567289/ Fables of Finlestia series by ZS Diamanti: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DDJSHNGS Bookshops and Bonedust by Travis Baldree: https://www.amazon.com/dp/1250886104/ Audacious by Mark Schaefer: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DTNCH18Y BristolCon: https://www.bristolcon.org/ Buffy the Vampire Slayer: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Buffy_the_Vampire_Slayer Other podcasts you can hear us on: Self Publishing Insiders (with Draft to Digital) Episode 274: Mastery Through Missteps: Demystifying the Quit the Day Job Dream Ink in Your Veins (with Rachael Herron) Episode 552: On Being Precious About Nothing Wish I’d Known Then for Writers (with Sara Rosett and Jami Albright) Episode 254: From Mastermind to Discord: The Power of Community with Samantha Cummings Episode 249: Matilda Swift on Overcoming Self-Doubt and Innovative Reader Magnets Write it Scared (with Stacy Frazer) Episode 119: The Power of the “Right” Writing Community: Find Your Folks and Keep Going
How to Level Up Your POD Paperbacks
2026/10/21
Samantha and Matilda are exploring all the options they can add to Amazon POD books to make them look as fancy as a special edition. Next week, Sam and Matilda are examining the comps for their new books and picking out some useful craft tips. Support the podcast by buying us a coffee (and a slice of cake if you’re feeling generous): https://ko-fi.com/pentopaycheckauthorspodcast/ Join us for more mastery through missteps…en masse. Yes, we’ve got a DISCORD, and you’re invited: https://discord.gg/w7BjxmeXfF Where to find Sam and Matilda: SAM IG: @sammowrimo Website: www.samantha-cummings.com Substack: https://samwritesbooks.substack.com/ Book to start with: Curse of the Wild - https://books2read.com/curseofthewild   (Moons & Magic Book 1) Most recent book: Star Crossed Curses - https://books2read.com/Star-crossed-curses (Deighton Academy Book 2) MATILDA IG: @matildaswiftauthor Website: MatildaSwift.com Book to start with: https://books2read.com/TheSlayoftheLand (book #1 of The Heathervale Mysteries) Most recent book: https://books2read.com/TheTamingOfTheStew (book #7 of The Parchment Paper Mysteries) Mentioned on the show: Ninth House by Leigh Bardugo: https://www.amazon.com/dp/1250751365/- The Fellowship of Bakers and Magic by J Penner: https://www.amazon.com/dp/1464243751/ The Hedgewitch series by Skye McKenna: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09QPYN5TS Tiffany Aching series by Terry Pratchett: https://www.amazon.com/dp/0063444291/ Don’t Let the Forest In by CG Drew: https://www.amazon.com/dp/1250895642/ The Serpent and the Wings of Night by Carissa Broadbent: https://www.amazon.com/dp/1250343186/ Other podcasts you can hear us on: Self Publishing Insiders (with Draft to Digital) Episode 274: Mastery Through Missteps: Demystifying the Quit the Day Job Dream Ink in Your Veins (with Rachael Herron) Episode 552: On Being Precious About Nothing Wish I’d Known Then for Writers (with Sara Rosett and Jami Albright) Episode 254: From Mastermind to Discord: The Power of Community with Samantha Cummings Episode 249: Matilda Swift on Overcoming Self-Doubt and Innovative Reader Magnets
How We Learn from Mistakes
2026/10/14
Samantha and Matilda are looking back on their most recent series and learning from the mistakes they made (and making sure to keep the good parts too). Next week, Sam and Matilda are talking about Amazon POD paperbacks and how to upgrade them to something special. Support the podcast by buying us a coffee (and a slice of cake if you’re feeling generous): https://ko-fi.com/pentopaycheckauthorspodcast/ Join us for more mastery through missteps…en masse. Yes, we’ve got a DISCORD, and you’re invited: https://discord.gg/w7BjxmeXfF Where to find Sam and Matilda: SAM IG: @sammowrimo Website: www.samantha-cummings.com Substack: https://samwritesbooks.substack.com/ Book to start with: Curse of the Wild - https://books2read.com/curseofthewild   (Moons & Magic Book 1) Most recent book: Star Crossed Curses - https://books2read.com/Star-crossed-curses (Deighton Academy Book 2) MATILDA IG: @matildaswiftauthor Website: MatildaSwift.com Book to start with: https://books2read.com/TheSlayoftheLand (book #1 of The Heathervale Mysteries) Most recent book: https://books2read.com/TheTamingOfTheStew (book #7 of The Parchment Paper Mysteries) Mentioned on the show: Ines Johnson’s book club (read the info at the top): tinyurl.com/RLAWBC The House in the Cerulean Sea by TJ Klune: https://www.amazon.com/dp/1250394546/ Kindle Storyteller Award: https://www.amazon.co.uk/b?ie=UTF8&node=12061299031 Seurat (the dot painting artist Sam mentioned): https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Georges_Seurat Olivie Blake: https://www.amazon.com/stores/Olivie-Blake/author/B01MS0CF5G T Kingfisher: https://www.amazon.com/stores/T-Kingfisher/author/B00LBKVU3E Michael Evans: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mevansinked Other podcasts you can hear us on: Self Publishing Insiders (with Draft to Digital) Episode 274: Mastery Through Missteps: Demystifying the Quit the Day Job Dream Ink in Your Veins (with Rachael Herron) Episode 552: On Being Precious About Nothing Wish I’d Known Then for Writers (with Sara Rosett and Jami Albright) Episode 254: From Mastermind to Discord: The Power of Community with Samantha Cummings Episode 249: Matilda Swift on Overcoming Self-Doubt and Innovative Reader Magnets
How We Keep Life and Writing Organised
2026/10/07
Samantha and Matilda plan life and their writing in VERY different ways, but each way works. Listen in on their different tactics. Next week, Sam and Matilda are reflecting on their most recent series, making sure they learn lessons before moving on. Support the podcast by buying us a coffee (and a slice of cake if you’re feeling generous): https://ko-fi.com/pentopaycheckauthorspodcast/ Join us for more mastery through missteps…en masse. Yes, we’ve got a DISCORD, and you’re invited: https://discord.gg/w7BjxmeXfF Where to find Sam and Matilda: SAM IG: @sammowrimo Website: www.samantha-cummings.com Substack: https://samwritesbooks.substack.com/ Book to start with: Curse of the Wild - https://books2read.com/curseofthewild   (Moons & Magic Book 1) Most recent book: Star Crossed Curses - https://books2read.com/Star-crossed-curses (Deighton Academy Book 2) MATILDA IG: @matildaswiftauthor Website: MatildaSwift.com Book to start with: https://books2read.com/TheSlayoftheLand (book #1 of The Heathervale Mysteries) Most recent book: https://books2read.com/TheTamingOfTheStew (book #7 of The Parchment Paper Mysteries) Mentioned on the show: Bluemoose Books: https://bluemoosebooks.com/ Haworth: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Haworth Plum Paper: https://www.plumpaper.com/ Good Tuesday Year Planner: https://goodtuesday.com/collections/wall-planners/products/2026-2027-academic-year-wall-planner-landscape-boho-arches Wordle: https://www.nytimes.com/games/wordle/index.html Framed: https://framed.wtf/ Martin Lewis: https://www.moneysavingexpert.com/ Other podcasts you can hear us on: Self Publishing Insiders (with Draft to Digital) Episode 274: Mastery Through Missteps: Demystifying the Quit the Day Job Dream Ink in Your Veins (with Rachael Herron) Episode 552: On Being Precious About Nothing Wish I’d Known Then for Writers (with Sara Rosett and Jami Albright) Episode 254: From Mastermind to Discord: The Power of Community with Samantha Cummings Episode 249: Matilda Swift on Overcoming Self-Doubt and Innovative Reader Magnets
How We’ve Achieved All in Q3
2026/09/30
Samantha and Matilda are looking back on Q3 and all that they’ve achieved. Next week, Sam and Matilda are talking about the many different types of planning they do and the tools they use for this. Support the podcast by buying us a coffee (and a slice of cake if you’re feeling generous): https://ko-fi.com/pentopaycheckauthorspodcast/ Join us for more mastery through missteps…en masse. Yes, we’ve got a DISCORD, and you’re invited: https://discord.gg/w7BjxmeXfF Where to find Sam and Matilda: SAM IG: @sammowrimo Website: www.samantha-cummings.com Substack: https://samwritesbooks.substack.com/ Book to start with: Curse of the Wild - https://books2read.com/curseofthewild   (Moons & Magic Book 1) Most recent book: Star Crossed Curses - https://books2read.com/Star-crossed-curses (Deighton Academy Book 2) MATILDA IG: @matildaswiftauthor Website: MatildaSwift.com Book to start with: https://books2read.com/TheSlayoftheLand (book #1 of The Heathervale Mysteries) Most recent book: https://books2read.com/TheTamingOfTheStew (book #7 of The Parchment Paper Mysteries) Other podcasts you can hear us on: Self Publishing Insiders (with Draft to Digital) Episode 274: Mastery Through Missteps: Demystifying the Quit the Day Job Dream Ink in Your Veins (with Rachael Herron) Episode 552: On Being Precious About Nothing Wish I’d Known Then for Writers (with Sara Rosett and Jami Albright) Episode 254: From Mastermind to Discord: The Power of Community with Samantha Cummings Episode 249: Matilda Swift on Overcoming Self-Doubt and Innovative Reader Magnets
How to Fight Mindset Blocks
2026/09/23
Samantha and Matilda are fending off the mindset blocks that might hold back their new series’ success. Next week, Sam and Matilda are doing their Q3 review! Support the podcast by buying us a coffee (and a slice of cake if you’re feeling generous): https://ko-fi.com/pentopaycheckauthorspodcast/ Join us for more mastery through missteps…en masse. Yes, we’ve got a DISCORD, and you’re invited: https://discord.gg/w7BjxmeXfF Where to find Sam and Matilda: SAM IG: @sammowrimo Website: www.samantha-cummings.com Substack: https://samwritesbooks.substack.com/ Book to start with: Curse of the Wild - https://books2read.com/curseofthewild   (Moons & Magic Book 1) Most recent book: Star Crossed Curses - https://books2read.com/Star-crossed-curses (Deighton Academy Book 2) MATILDA IG: @matildaswiftauthor Website: MatildaSwift.com Book to start with: https://books2read.com/TheSlayoftheLand (book #1 of The Heathervale Mysteries) Most recent book: https://books2read.com/TheTamingOfTheStew (book #7 of The Parchment Paper Mysteries) Mentioned on the show: K-lytics: https://k-lytics.com/ Tempest by Victoria Aveyard: https://www.amazon.com/dp/0063451360/ Matt Dinniman: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Matt_Dinniman Other podcasts you can hear us on: Self Publishing Insiders (with Draft to Digital) Episode 274: Mastery Through Missteps: Demystifying the Quit the Day Job Dream Ink in Your Veins (with Rachael Herron) Episode 552: On Being Precious About Nothing Wish I’d Known Then for Writers (with Sara Rosett and Jami Albright) Episode 254: From Mastermind to Discord: The Power of Community with Samantha Cummings Episode 249: Matilda Swift on Overcoming Self-Doubt and Innovative Reader Magnets
How We Succeed at Preparation
2026/09/16
It’s challenge week! Find out if Samantha and Matilda succeeded in their tasks to prepare for their new series. Next week, Sam and Matilda continue getting ready for their new series by fending off the mindset issues around them. Support the podcast by buying us a coffee (and a slice of cake if you’re feeling generous): https://ko-fi.com/pentopaycheckauthorspodcast/ Join us for more mastery through missteps…en masse. Yes, we’ve got a DISCORD, and you’re invited: https://discord.gg/w7BjxmeXfF Where to find Sam and Matilda: SAM IG: @sammowrimo Website: www.samantha-cummings.com Substack: https://samwritesbooks.substack.com/ Book to start with: Curse of the Wild - https://books2read.com/curseofthewild   (Moons & Magic Book 1) Most recent book: Star Crossed Curses - https://books2read.com/Star-crossed-curses (Deighton Academy Book 2) MATILDA IG: @matildaswiftauthor Website: MatildaSwift.com Book to start with: https://books2read.com/TheSlayoftheLand (book #1 of The Heathervale Mysteries) Most recent book: https://books2read.com/TheTamingOfTheStew (book #7 of The Parchment Paper Mysteries) Mentioned on the show: Obsidian: https://obsidian.md/ K-lytics: https://k-lytics.com/ The Honest Authors Podcast: http://hollyseddon.com/about-me/the-honest-authors-podcast/ Plot Twist Podcast: https://feeds.acast.com/public/shows/plot-twist-podcast Other podcasts you can hear us on: Self Publishing Insiders (with Draft to Digital) Episode 274: Mastery Through Missteps: Demystifying the Quit the Day Job Dream Ink in Your Veins (with Rachael Herron) Episode 552: On Being Precious About Nothing Wish I’d Known Then for Writers (with Sara Rosett and Jami Albright) Episode 254: From Mastermind to Discord: The Power of Community with Samantha Cummings Episode 249: Matilda Swift on Overcoming Self-Doubt and Innovative Reader Magnets
How Craft Exercises Cure Creative Blocks
2026/09/09
Samantha and Matilda are challenging each other to stretch their creative muscles with craft exercises. Next week, it’s challenge week. Join Matilda and Sam to strike down the least inviting items on their to-do lists. Support the podcast by buying us a coffee (and a slice of cake if you’re feeling generous): https://ko-fi.com/pentopaycheckauthorspodcast/ Join us for more mastery through missteps…en masse. Yes, we’ve got a DISCORD, and you’re invited: https://discord.gg/w7BjxmeXfF Where to find Sam and Matilda: SAM IG: @sammowrimo Website: www.samantha-cummings.com Substack: https://samwritesbooks.substack.com/ Book to start with: Curse of the Wild - https://books2read.com/curseofthewild   (Moons & Magic Book 1) Most recent book: Star Crossed Curses - https://books2read.com/Star-crossed-curses (Deighton Academy Book 2) MATILDA IG: @matildaswiftauthor Website: MatildaSwift.com Book to start with: https://books2read.com/TheSlayoftheLand (book #1 of The Heathervale Mysteries) Most recent book: https://books2read.com/TheTamingOfTheStew (book #7 of The Parchment Paper Mysteries) Mentioned on the show: The Five-Minute Writer by Margret Geraghty: https://www.amazon.com/dp/1845283392/ CAConrad’s [Soma]tics: https://www.caconrad.com/somatic The Beekeeper’s Apprentice by Laurie R King: https://www.amazon.com/dp/1250055709/ Modern Divination by Isa Agajanian: https://www.amazon.com/dp/1035049988/ Other podcasts you can hear us on: Self Publishing Insiders (with Draft to Digital) Episode 274: Mastery Through Missteps: Demystifying the Quit the Day Job Dream Ink in Your Veins (with Rachael Herron) Episode 552: On Being Precious About Nothing Wish I’d Known Then for Writers (with Sara Rosett and Jami Albright) Episode 254: From Mastermind to Discord: The Power of Community with Samantha Cummings Episode 249: Matilda Swift on Overcoming Self-Doubt and Innovative Reader Magnets
How We Plan Books and Series
2026/09/02
Samantha and Matilda are still focusing on their craft, talking through their process for planning whole series and books, from the biggest arc to the smallest word. Next week, Matilda and Sam are sharing the results of a day of craft exercises. Support the podcast by buying us a coffee (and a slice of cake if you’re feeling generous): https://ko-fi.com/pentopaycheckauthorspodcast/ Join us for more mastery through missteps…en masse. Yes, we’ve got a DISCORD, and you’re invited: https://discord.gg/w7BjxmeXfF Where to find Sam and Matilda: SAM IG: @sammowrimo Website: www.samantha-cummings.com Substack: https://samwritesbooks.substack.com/ Book to start with: Curse of the Wild - https://books2read.com/curseofthewild   (Moons & Magic Book 1) Most recent book: Star Crossed Curses - https://books2read.com/Star-crossed-curses (Deighton Academy Book 2) MATILDA IG: @matildaswiftauthor Website: MatildaSwift.com Book to start with: https://books2read.com/TheSlayoftheLand (book #1 of The Heathervale Mysteries) Most recent book: https://books2read.com/TheTamingOfTheStew (book #7 of The Parchment Paper Mysteries) Mentioned on the show: Save the Cat by Blake Snyder: https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B00340ESIS/ Save the Cat Writes a Novel by Jessica Brody: https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B078VWDNKT Shonda Rhimes Masterclass: https://www.masterclass.com/classes/shonda-rhimes-teaches-writing-for-television Kim Boo York podcast episode example: https://www.thecreativepenn.com/2024/07/15/intuitive-discovery-writing-and-serial-fiction-with-kimboo-york/ The Heroine’s Journey by Gail Carriger: https://www.amazon.com/dp/1944751343/ Holly Black podcast example: https://open.spotify.com/episode/3VItEPB1gyQeKfaCFySgwy Romancing the Beat by Gwen Hayes: https://www.amazon.com/Romancing-Beat-Structure-Romance-Kissing/dp/1530838614/ Jennifer Lynn Barnes Id List podcast example: https://www.spreaker.com/episode/using-the-id-list-to-enhance-fiction-with-jennifer-lynn-barnes--16495640 Other podcasts you can hear us on: Self Publishing Insiders (with Draft to Digital) Episode 274: Mastery Through Missteps: Demystifying the Quit the Day Job Dream Ink in Your Veins (with Rachael Herron) Episode 552: On Being Precious About Nothing Wish I’d Known Then for Writers (with Sara Rosett and Jami Albright) Episode 254: From Mastermind to Discord: The Power of Community with Samantha Cummings Episode 249: Matilda Swift on Overcoming Self-Doubt and Innovative Reader Magnets
How We Critique for Success
2026/08/26
Samantha and Matilda are still focusing on their craft, turning a critical eye to our own writing and that of others. Next week, Matilda and Sam are talking about how they plan all elements of a new series and its books, down to the craft level. Support the podcast by buying us a coffee (and a slice of cake if you’re feeling generous): https://ko-fi.com/pentopaycheckauthorspodcast/ Join us for more mastery through missteps…en masse. Yes, we’ve got a DISCORD, and you’re invited: https://discord.gg/w7BjxmeXfF Where to find Sam and Matilda: SAM IG: @sammowrimo Website: www.samantha-cummings.com Substack: https://samwritesbooks.substack.com/ Book to start with: Curse of the Wild - https://books2read.com/curseofthewild   (Moons & Magic Book 1) Most recent book: Star Crossed Curses - https://books2read.com/Star-crossed-curses (Deighton Academy Book 2) MATILDA IG: @matildaswiftauthor Website: MatildaSwift.com Book to start with: https://books2read.com/TheSlayoftheLand (book #1 of The Heathervale Mysteries) Most recent book: https://books2read.com/TheTamingOfTheStew (book #7 of The Parchment Paper Mysteries) Mentioned on the show: The Invisible Life of Addie LaRue by VE Schwab: https://www.amazon.com/dp/0765387573/ Katabasis by RF Kuang: https://www.amazon.com/dp/006302148X/ Gothikana by RuNyx: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0H6XMCCG2 The Beekeeper’s Apprentice by Laurie R King: https://www.amazon.com/dp/1250055709/ Bookshops and Bonedust by Travis Baldree: https://www.amazon.com/dp/1250886104/ Guards! Guards! by Terry Pratchett: https://www.amazon.com/Guards-Discworld-Novel-ebook/dp/B00354YA5E/ Perdido Street Station by China Mieville: https://www.amazon.com/dp/0345443020/ Cargoes by John Masefield: https://www.poetrybyheart.org.uk/poems/cargoes The Princess Bride: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0093779/ Columbo: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt1466074/ Other podcasts you can hear us on: Self Publishing Insiders (with Draft to Digital) Episode 274: Mastery Through Missteps: Demystifying the Quit the Day Job Dream Ink in Your Veins (with Rachael Herron) Episode 552: On Being Precious About Nothing Wish I’d Known Then for Writers (with Sara Rosett and Jami Albright) Episode 254: From Mastermind to Discord: The Power of Community with Samantha Cummings Episode 249: Matilda Swift on Overcoming Self-Doubt and Innovative Reader Magnets
How We Build Bestselling Craft Skills
2026/08/19
Samantha and Matilda are working on their craft, sharing their tactics for improvement and the resources they use. Next week, Matilda and Sam are doing a craft critique of their own and other writing. Support the podcast by buying us a coffee (and a slice of cake if you’re feeling generous): https://ko-fi.com/pentopaycheckauthorspodcast/ Join us for more mastery through missteps…en masse. Yes, we’ve got a DISCORD, and you’re invited: https://discord.gg/w7BjxmeXfF Where to find Sam and Matilda: SAM IG: @sammowrimo Website: www.samantha-cummings.com Book to start with: Curse of the Wild - https://books2read.com/curseofthewild   (Moons & Magic Book 1) Most recent book: Star Crossed Curses - https://books2read.com/Star-crossed-curses (Deighton Academy Book 2) MATILDA IG: @matildaswiftauthor Website: MatildaSwift.com Book to start with: https://books2read.com/TheSlayoftheLand (book #1 of The Heathervale Mysteries) Most recent book: https://books2read.com/TheTamingOfTheStew (book #7 of The Parchment Paper Mysteries) Mentioned on the show: The Descent: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0435625/ Jennifer Lynn Barnes: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jennifer_Lynn_Barnes Other podcasts you can hear us on: Self Publishing Insiders (with Draft to Digital) Episode 274: Mastery Through Missteps: Demystifying the Quit the Day Job Dream Ink in Your Veins (with Rachael Herron) Episode 552: On Being Precious About Nothing Wish I’d Known Then for Writers (with Sara Rosett and Jami Albright) Episode 254: From Mastermind to Discord: The Power of Community with Samantha Cummings Episode 249: Matilda Swift on Overcoming Self-Doubt and Innovative Reader Magnets
How Our Genre Networks Grow
2026/08/12
Samantha and Matilda are reaching out to authors and readers in new genres…yes, it feels uncomfortable, but they’re doing it anyway! Next week, Matilda and Sam start a mini-series on craft, sharing what they’ve been focused on and their favourite resources. Support the podcast by buying us a coffee (and a slice of cake if you’re feeling generous): https://ko-fi.com/pentopaycheckauthorspodcast/ Join us for more mastery through missteps…en masse. Yes, we’ve got a DISCORD, and you’re invited: https://discord.gg/w7BjxmeXfF Where to find Sam and Matilda: SAM IG: @sammowrimo Website: www.samantha-cummings.com Book to start with: Curse of the Wild - https://books2read.com/curseofthewild   (Moons & Magic Book 1) Most recent book: Star Crossed Curses - https://books2read.com/Star-crossed-curses (Deighton Academy Book 2) MATILDA IG: @matildaswiftauthor Website: MatildaSwift.com Book to start with: https://books2read.com/TheSlayoftheLand (book #1 of The Heathervale Mysteries) Most recent book: https://books2read.com/TheTamingOfTheStew (book #7 of The Parchment Paper Mysteries) Mentioned on the show: Terry Pratchett: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Terry_Pratchett Matt Dinniman: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Matt_Dinniman Hearthcon: https://www.lazydragonbooks.com/hearthcon-2026 Crystal Johnson’s Marketing Q&A: https://www.patreon.com/crystaljohnston/posts/august-be-sure-q-165662796 Nathan C Ashford’s threads account: https://www.threads.com/@nathancashford Other podcasts you can hear us on: Self Publishing Insiders (with Draft to Digital) Episode 274: Mastery Through Missteps: Demystifying the Quit the Day Job Dream Ink in Your Veins (with Rachael Herron) Episode 552: On Being Precious About Nothing Wish I’d Known Then for Writers (with Sara Rosett and Jami Albright) Episode 254: From Mastermind to Discord: The Power of Community with Samantha Cummings Episode 249: Matilda Swift on Overcoming Self-Doubt and Innovative Reader Magnets
How We Get Help
2026/08/05
Samantha and Matilda are getting better at asking for help, and they’re making plans to improve even more. Next week, Matilda and Sam are finding ways to build contacts in new genres. Support the podcast by buying us a coffee (and a slice of cake if you’re feeling generous): https://ko-fi.com/pentopaycheckauthorspodcast/ Join us for more mastery through missteps…en masse. Yes, we’ve got a DISCORD, and you’re invited: https://discord.gg/w7BjxmeXfF Where to find Sam and Matilda: SAM IG: @sammowrimo Website: www.samantha-cummings.com Book to start with: Curse of the Wild - https://books2read.com/curseofthewild   (Moons & Magic Book 1) Most recent book: Star Crossed Curses - https://books2read.com/Star-crossed-curses (Deighton Academy Book 2) MATILDA IG: @matildaswiftauthor Website: MatildaSwift.com Book to start with: https://books2read.com/TheSlayoftheLand (book #1 of The Heathervale Mysteries) Most recent book: https://books2read.com/TheTamingOfTheStew (book #7 of The Parchment Paper Mysteries) Other podcasts you can hear us on: Self Publishing Insiders (with Draft to Digital) Episode 274: Mastery Through Missteps: Demystifying the Quit the Day Job Dream Ink in Your Veins (with Rachael Herron) Episode 552: On Being Precious About Nothing Wish I’d Known Then for Writers (with Sara Rosett and Jami Albright) Episode 254: From Mastermind to Discord: The Power of Community with Samantha Cummings Episode 249: Matilda Swift on Overcoming Self-Doubt and Innovative Reader Magnets

Podcast reviews

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4.6 out of 5
8 reviews
★★★★★
TarahBenzy 2025/05/31
My favorite author podcast
I’ve been publishing for 11 years, and I’ve seen a lot of podcasts for indie authors come and go. Because I have a lot of experience in the industry, ...
★★☆☆☆
beevy hive 2025/04/24
AI.
always upsetting to see artists using or promoting AI, especially after seeming to take a recent stand against it. really disappointed and hope this w...
★★★★★
ChanaYael 2025/04/22
Would give 10 stars if I could
The only writing podcast I NEVER miss an episode of. Finally I feel like I’ve found my community!
★★★★★
SamanthaRDU 2024/02/22
Loving it!
I’m not a writer myself, but I absolutely love to read, so I’m really enjoying this “behind the scenes” of how books are created. The podcasters discu...
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