The Self-Publishing Show enters a new era as James Blatch officially introduces his new co-host, romance author Cecilia “Cissy” Mecca. In this wide-ranging conversation, they explore Cissy’s indie journey, from mediaeval romance to paranormal and contemporary pivots, her decision to consolidate pen names, and the realities of building a sustainable author career. The episode also dives into the latest AI controversy in the romance world, discussing reader backlash, industry adaptation, and why platform-building may matter more than ever in an AI-powered marketplace.

Show notes:

• Official introduction of Cecilia “Cissy” Mecca as the new co-host and what she brings from the romance genre perspective.
  
  
• Cissy’s indie origin story: discovering self-publishing through conference connections and following the Learn Self Publishing LaunchPad roadmap to leave her teaching career.
  
  
• The pros and cons of genre pivoting, combining pen names, and choosing creative fulfilment over strict niche strategy.
  
  
• The New York Times article about Coral Heart and AI-written romance books and the strong reaction from romance readers and authors.
  
  
• Why adapting to AI, strengthening reader connection, and building direct platforms (mailing lists, community, in-person events) will be critical for authors moving forward.
  
  

Links & Resources Mentioned:
ProWritingAid (sponsor & discount code IWC15): https://prowritingaid.com
NotebookLM by Google (research & synthesis tool discussed): https://notebooklm.google.com
Learn Self Publishing - Launchpad course https://www.learnselfpublishing.com
The New York Times article with Coral Heart https://www.nytimes.com/2026/02/08/bu...

From learnselfpublishing.com

James Blatch returns after an 18-month hiatus to relaunch the Self-Publishing Show and outline its new direction. In this solo episode, he reflects on why the show paused, what changed during that time with the Indie Writers Club, and how the podcast will evolve going forward with a new co-host. James also shares his clear, pragmatic stance on AI in publishing, discusses AI translations for authors, and previews upcoming projects, courses, and live events for the indie publishing community.

Key Talking Points:

• Why the Self-Publishing Show went on hiatus and what’s changing to make it more sustainable and community-focused going forward.
  
  
• Lessons learned from the Indie Writers Club podcast, including community-building, industry discussion, and practical craft conversations.
  
  
• James’ position on AI in publishing: embracing AI as a tool while calling out unethical practices and adapting to industry change.
  
  
• A deep look at AI translations for authors, including why first-pass AI translations aren’t enough and how a multi-pass workflow improves quality.
  
  
• What’s coming next: a new co-host reveal, future guests, Self-Publishing Show Live updates, and expanded community offerings.
  
  

Links & Resources Mentioned
• ProWritingAid (sponsor & discount code IWC15): https://prowritingaid.com
• Indie Writers Club (podcast archive): https://indiewritersclub.com
• ProWritingAid Novel Beginnings competition: https://prowritingaid.com/novel-beginnings

• AI Translations for Authors waitlist: https://learnselfpublishing.com/aitranslations
• Self-Publishing Show Live (London conference): https://learnselfpublishing.com/spslive

From learnselfpublishing.com

In this heartfelt exit interview, Cara Clare reflects on her journey as a co-host of the Indie Writers Club alongside James Blatch. They discuss the significance of the podcast in their personal and professional growth, the exciting announcement of the Novel Beginnings contest aimed at supporting new writers, and the transition to the Self-Publishing Show. The conversation also delves into the nuances of writing spice, the complexity of emotions in storytelling, and the challenges of exploring different genres. As they wrap up, both express gratitude for their time together and the friendships formed through the podcast.

USEFUL LINKS:

PWA Novel Beginnings: https://prowritingaid.com/novel-beginnings

Get 15% of annual plans at our sponsor ProWritingAid by using code IWC15

https://www.prowritingaid.com

Join our Patreon for exclusive access including Live Q&As with James & Cara and your chance to discuss your writing career.

https://www.indiewritersclub.com/support

Takeaways

The Indie Writers Club has reached its final episode after 73 episodes.
Novel Beginnings contest offers significant funding for new writers.
AI struggles with writing spice, leaving room for human creativity.
Emotions in writing should reflect complexity, not just surface feelings.
Navigating genre challenges can be daunting for writers.
The podcast has been a journey of personal growth for Cara.
Writing requires balancing showing and telling emotions effectively.
Friendships formed through the podcast have been invaluable.
Transitioning to the Self-Publishing Show marks a new chapter.
The importance of investing in craft alongside business in writing.



Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Exit Interview Context
02:59 Novel Beginnings Contest Announcement
05:39 Transition to Self-Publishing Show
08:41 Writing Spice and Emotional Depth
11:33 Show vs. Tell in Writing
17:25 Balancing Emotion and Plot
17:41 The Nature of Writing Questions
18:40 Exploring Genre Preferences
19:55 Challenges in Writing Crime Thrillers
21:22 Creating Your Own Rules in Fiction
22:57 The Role of AI in Writing
24:11 Reflections on Personal Growth and Writing
26:14 The Impact of Podcasting on Confidence
28:11 Feedback and Future Directions
29:26 Closing Thoughts and Farewell