Episode Description: Being an author means navigating an endless maze of decisions — creative decisions, business decisions, financial decisions, social decisions — and at some point, all of us hit a wall where everything feels murky. The next step isn’t clear. The “right” answer seems to flicker between yes and no. And the longer we sit in that limbo, the more everything stalls. In this episode, Claire explores the anatomy of doubt: why we freeze, why uncertainty feels so emotionally loaded, and why some types (hello, Loyalists) live close to doubt every day while others completely unravel the moment they encounter it. If you’re stuck in doubt about your writing, career, or next steps — this episode gives you tools to reclaim clarity and reconnect with your inner authority. In this episode, you’ll learn: Why doubt is a human condition, not a character flaw The difference between not having enough information and being afraid to act How impatience, overthinking, or rushing toward certainty can backfire What “polarity” conflicts are and why they make some decisions feel impossible How losing trust in your inner authority derails decision-making Why burnout makes even simple choices feel overwhelming How to check in with your head, heart, and body to get clear on your next step Key questions that help you break out of the doubt spiral and move forward Key Takeaway: Doubt isn’t always a stop sign — sometimes it’s a signal to slow down, sometimes a nudge to reevaluate your values, and sometimes a warning that your nervous system is overwhelmed. But no matter the cause, you can learn to disentangle the noise, reconnect with your inner authority, and make decisions that honor who you are now. Support the Show: If today’s episode helped you breathe a little easier in the face of uncertainty, share it with another writer who might need it too. You can explore Claire’s courses, coaching, and books at liberatedwriter.com, including her newest release, Write Iconic Characters, available now through major retailers. Access the transcript here. Happy writing!

Episode Description: In this episode of What If? For Authors, Claire unpacks the hidden dynamics behind creative inertia. She explores why we freeze at the starting line, how to tell if it’s a sign of fear, exhaustion, or wisdom, and what to do when you can’t seem to move forward—no matter how hard you try. You’ll learn how to distinguish between procrastination and protection, why shame and “tough love” don’t actually help, and how to use curiosity and compassion to get yourself unstuck. With insight from the Enneagram, Claire also explores how each type experiences this resistance differently—and how you can build gentle, practical structures to help yourself begin again. In this episode, you’ll learn: Why struggling to start isn’t laziness—it’s information How to tell if your resistance is a pattern or a novelty, and why that matters What “body doubling” is, and how it can help Enneagram Nines build momentum How each Enneagram type tends to resist getting started (and what to do about it) Why friction can be a good sign for naturally fast starters How to check whether your resistance is fear, intuition, or simply exhaustion A powerful exercise to check in with your head, heart, and body centers before beginning What it really means to act courageously—even when the fear doesn’t go away Takeaway Challenge:Next time you can’t seem to get started, pause the shame spiral and turn to curiosity. Ask: Is this fear? Fatigue? A sign to pause? Then, listen to what your head, heart, and body have to say. If it’s still something worth doing, plan for courage—don’t wait for the fear to disappear first. Support the Show: If this episode helped you see your resistance in a new light, please share it with another author who might need to hear it too. You can also support What If For Authors by leaving a review wherever you listen—it helps more writers find the show. Want to explore these ideas more deeply? Visit liberatedwriter.com for Claire’s courses, coaching, and books on building a sustainable author career in uncertain times. Access the transcript here. Happy writing!

Episode Description: In this episode of What If? For Authors, Claire explores the nuanced relationship between ambition, fear, and contentment. What if your ambition isn’t really gone… but simply changing shape? With insight, humor, and plenty of hard truths, Claire unpacks how ambition often gets tangled up with fear—fear of worthlessness, fear of missing out, fear of falling behind—and how that mislabeling can make us think we’re “losing” something essential. She offers a reframing that helps authors understand the difference between fear-fueled ambition and hope-fueled ambition, and how to build a healthier, more sustainable drive in your creative career. If you’ve ever thought, “I used to be so motivated—what happened to me?” this episode is for you. In this episode, you’ll learn: The surprising truth about how ambition and contentment actually support each other Why ambition doesn’t have to feel like a fire under your ass How fear disguises itself as ambition (especially for Enneagram Threes and Sevens) Why tying ambition to outcomes you can’t control leads to burnout How to distinguish between “fear-driven” and “hope-driven” ambition A practical way to reframe self-talk so ambition feels energizing, not punishing Why practicing contentment won’t kill your ambition—it may save it Takeaway Challenge:Ask yourself: What would I find deeply gratifying to create—even if no one praised me for it? Sit with that answer. Notice how different it feels from fear-driven goals. Then, practice shifting one piece of your ambition toward hope, curiosity, or joy, instead of fear. Support the Show: If this episode helped you reimagine ambition in a healthier way, share it with another author who might need it too. You can also support the show by leaving a review wherever you listen—it makes a big difference in helping other writers find this resource. Want more support? Visit liberatedwriter.com to explore Claire’s coaching, courses, workshops, and books for building a sustainable, liberated writing career. Access the transcript here. Happy writing!  

Episode Description: In this episode of What If For Authors, Claire asks the question: What if I’m a perfectionist? She breaks down the myth of “perfect,” explores how each Enneagram type approaches perfectionism differently, and offers practical ways to challenge the illusion of control that perfectionism creates. If you’ve ever stalled out because your draft “wasn’t good enough,” obsessed over tiny details at the expense of joy, or secretly feared that one mistake could ruin everything—you’ll find both relief and encouragement in this conversation. In this episode, you'll learn: Why the concept of “perfection” is made up—and how that realization can set you free How idealism (a beautiful quality) can twist into painful perfectionism The hidden childhood lessons that might have taught you mistakes weren’t safe Why perfectionism doesn’t produce perfect books—it produces stuck authors How each Enneagram type disguises perfectionism in its own way Why publishing a book will always feel vulnerable (and why that’s good news) A simple practice to start loosening perfectionism’s grip today Takeaway Challenge:Make one mistake on purpose this week—and leave it there. Whether it’s leaving a typo in a draft, breaking one of your own “rules,” or letting something slide without fixing it, notice what happens. Is it really the catastrophe your perfectionism promised? Or is it… nothing at all? Support the Show: If this episode gave you permission to breathe a little deeper, please share it with another author who could use the same relief. You can also support the show by leaving a review wherever you listen—it helps more perfectionist authors find their way here. Want to go deeper? Visit liberatedwriter.com to explore Claire’s coaching, courses, and books designed to help authors thrive without perfectionism weighing them down. Access the transcript here. Happy writing!

Episode Description: In this episode, Claire dives headfirst into a topic that feels especially timely in a chaotic world and unpredictable industry: the craving for certainty. What if you need to know how something will turn out before you take the risk? What if uncertainty keeps you frozen, anxious, or constantly second-guessing your choices? With equal parts humor and wisdom (and a little sleep deprivation), Claire explores how our brains seek certainty for safety, how this impulse shows up differently for each Enneagram type, and how clinging to certainty can actually keep us stuck. She offers a powerful mindset shift that helps authors stop grasping for guarantees and start building confidence in their own resilience. If you've ever thought, “If this doesn’t work, I don’t know what I’ll do,” this episode gives you practical tools to turn that fear into forward momentum. In this episode, you'll learn: Why certainty is so alluring—and how it tricks us into playing small How each Enneagram type tends to seek certainty in their creative work The danger of mistaking plans or perfectionism for actual security What a “toolbox” of internal resources is, and how to build yours How to shift your mindset from “I need this to work” to “I’ll figure it out either way” Why failure hurts—but doesn’t have to stop you How your rebounding process can become a source of self-respect Takeaway Challenge:Inventory your “toolbox.” What inner resources, skills, support systems, and past experiences remind you that you’ve handled hard things before? Add to it regularly. Confidence doesn’t come from knowing the future—it comes from trusting that you’ll know what to do when the future arrives. Support the Show: If this episode helped you see uncertainty in a new light, please consider leaving a review on your favorite podcast platform and sharing it with your author friends. Want more guidance? Visit liberatedwriter.com to explore Claire’s coaching, courses, and books for authors navigating the wild world of publishing with purpose. Access the transcript here. Happy writing—and yes, you can handle the bad parts.

Episode Description: In this special bonus episode, Claire shares practical, story-focused advice for one of the most common (and frustrating) issues writers face: not knowing their protagonist. Whether your main character feels flat, unmotivated, or like a stranger you just can’t crack, this episode offers a clear path forward—with help from the Enneagram, of course. Claire explains how understanding your protagonist’s core fear and desire can unlock their behavior, clarify their voice, and get your story moving again. She also walks you through the process of choosing the right Enneagram type for your character, using concrete examples to show how motivation drives everything from plot to emotional depth. Plus, she shares an exciting update about her new book, Write Iconic Characters, and its currently-running Kickstarter campaign! In this episode, you'll learn: Why some protagonists “refuse” to follow the plot—and how to fix it How to use Enneagram types to shape character motivation What to do when you’ve blended multiple Enneagram types by accident The simplest way to start creating a protagonist who feels authentic Why writing your own Enneagram type can actually be a storytelling superpower How to reverse-engineer your protagonist based on your story world or theme What to do if your usual character-building methods aren’t working Back the Write Iconic Characters Kickstarter (ends Aug 8): https://liberatedwriter.com/kickstarter Support the Show: If you found this episode thought-provoking and helpful, please leave a review on your favorite podcast platform and share it with fellow authors. Every review helps more writers discover this resource. Access the transcript here. Happy Writing!  

Episode Description: In this episode, Claire explores why so many authors hate networking (hint: it’s not because you’re antisocial), how the Enneagram can reveal the hidden gifts you bring to any professional community, and why deep, meaningful connections—not surface-level ones—are the real magic behind sustainable author careers. Whether you’re a conference avoider, an online lurker, or someone who thinks they’re just bad at making friends, this episode is packed with practical advice, gentle encouragement, and some hard-won insights about what it takes to build a network that actually feeds you. In this episode, you'll learn: Why many authors resist networking—and how to gently shift that mindset How your Enneagram type may influence your relationship with connection The difference between transactional vs. transformational networks Tips for building relationships that don’t feel forced or fake What to do if you're socially anxious, neurodivergent, or easily overwhelmed Simple strategies to start (or deepen) meaningful author connections Takeaway Challenge:Reach out to one person in the writing industry you like but haven’t spoken to in a while. Just say hi. Ask how they’re doing. That’s it. That’s networking. Support the Show: If you found this episode thought-provoking and helpful, please leave a review on your favorite podcast platform and share it with fellow authors. Every review helps more writers discover this resource. Access the transcript here. Happy Writing!

Episode Description: In this episode, Claire dives into a pattern she knows all too well — the belief that she has to solve everything on her own. Sound familiar? If you’ve ever curled up in bed overwhelmed by the weight of being a one-person problem-solving machine, this episode is for you. Claire explores the roots of this pattern, tracing it back to childhood perceptions and our culture’s celebration of rugged individualism. She talks through the moment she realized that not only could she ask for help, but she might actually want to — even if it feels wildly uncomfortable at first. Using her signature blend of coaching insight, author empathy, and a bit of humor, Claire breaks down: What gets in the way of asking for help How fear narrows our options Why it’s so hard for authors (and humans) to even imagine what help might look like The different types of help we might need — physical, emotional, intellectual The critical difference between interdependence and codependence Whether you're burning out from doing it all yourself, feeling emotionally isolated, or simply wondering if there’s an easier way, this episode offers clarity, compassion, and a gentle nudge toward a more sustainable, connected writing life. Key Takeaways: Naming your self-reliance pattern is the first step toward choosing something different. Help can be practical or emotional — both are valid, needed, and deeply human. Interdependence is healthy and necessary; it’s not a weakness, it’s a strength. You don’t have to wait until you can’t to say I won’t. Support the Show: If you found this episode thought-provoking and helpful, please leave a review on your favorite podcast platform and share it with fellow authors. Every review helps more writers discover this resource. What’s Next?: If this episode hit home, take a few minutes to sit with the question: “What kind of help would I want, even if I don’t technically need it?” Then, try something wild… ask for it. Access the transcript here. Happy Writing!

Episode Description: In this episode of What If? For Authors, Claire completes her exploration of writer orientations by diving into the world of emotion-oriented authors. If you lead with the heart when writing, this episode is for you. Claire explores how the emotional orientation manifests in different Enneagram types (especially 2s, 3s, and 4s), the unique strengths and challenges this style brings, and how emotion-driven writing can both elevate your work and stall your process if you’re not careful. Plus, get insights on how to balance emotion with action and logic to bring your stories to life with impact and clarity. In This Episode: What makes someone an emotion-oriented writer How the Enneagram heart types (2, 3, 4) each engage with emotion in the creative process Why 3s avoid emotion—and what happens when they slow down enough to feel How 2s' people-pleasing tendencies can derail their writing The way 4s can get stuck in emotional complexity and how to access universality through others What to watch out for if your emotion center is strong but action or thinking is underdeveloped Tips for managing overwhelming emotions that block progress How to differentiate between emotions that need to be observed vs. acted on The importance of emotional discernment for creative sustainability Practical Takeaway: Emotion-oriented writers don’t need to tone down their feelings—but they do need to balance them with thoughtful structure and forward momentum. Learn to discern which emotions are fuel for your writing and which are simply data to be acknowledged and released. Support the Show: If you found this episode thought-provoking and helpful, please leave a review on your favorite podcast platform and share it with fellow authors. Every review helps more writers discover this resource. Join the Conversation: Are you an emotion-oriented writer? What challenges or strengths have you noticed in your process? Share your experience by replying to this episode post or tagging Claire on social media. Access the transcript here. Happy Writing!

Episode Description: In this episode of What If? For Authors, Claire tackles one of the most quietly powerful questions lurking beneath so many of our writing blocks: What if I don’t feel safe? Safety isn’t just about locked doors and quiet neighborhoods. It shows up in four key forms: Physical safety (Is your body secure — and does it know it’s secure?) Emotional safety (Can you express your true feelings with yourself and others without fear of rejection or judgment?) Intellectual safety (Do you feel free to say “I don’t know,” stay curious, and risk being wrong?) Spiritual safety (Are you able to explore beliefs, questions, and doubts without being cast out or silenced — by others or by yourself?) Claire explores how lacking safety in any of these areas can quietly suffocate creativity, lead to writer’s block, and keep us from fully connecting to the stories we want to tell. She also shares: Why your nervous system sometimes can't tell the difference between being safe and feeling safe. How trauma, people-pleasing, perfectionism, and even the relationships around you can subtly limit your creative freedom. The difference between real danger and perceived danger, and why naming the fear can shrink it. Why discomfort isn’t always a sign to stop — and why it’s essential to learn how to move forward even when you’re uncomfortable. Why becoming a “safe person” for yourself and others will make you a stronger and more fearless creator. Why You Should Listen: This episode offers a thoughtful, compassionate look at why the modern world can feel increasingly unsafe, how to sort through those feelings, and how building practices for emotional, intellectual, physical, and spiritual safety can liberate both your writing and your life. Support the Show: If you found this episode thought-provoking and helpful, please leave a review on your favorite podcast platform and share it with fellow authors. Every review helps more writers discover this resource. Join the Conversation: Share your insights with Claire by emailing contact@ffs.media or connecting on social media. Access the transcript here. Happy Writing!

Episode Description: In this episode of What If? For Authors, Claire dives into a deeply personal question: What if I'm a private person? If you feel more comfortable keeping parts of your life under wraps and struggle with the pressure to overshare, this conversation is for you. Claire explores the right to privacy as a basic human need and examines how personal boundaries can be both a shield and a source of strength in your writing career. Drawing on her own experiences and insights from the Enneagram, she discusses how embracing your privacy can empower your creative voice while still allowing meaningful connections with your audience. Tune in to discover strategies for balancing what you share with the world and what you keep for yourself—and learn how being a private person can be a powerful asset in your author journey. Key Takeaways: Interwoven Rights: Discover how free speech and privacy are intertwined pillars of creative and personal freedom, and why protecting one often means defending the other. Legal Protections: Understand the scope and limitations of the First Amendment—not only as a guardian of free expression but also as a shield for your private life. Erosion of Privacy: Learn about the subtle ways in which political maneuvers and legal gray areas may gradually undermine your privacy and the implications for authors. Staying Grounded: Explore strategies to remain mindful and resilient amid external chaos, focusing on what you can control: your thoughts, actions, and personal narrative. Empowered Expression: Embrace the power of choosing what to share and what to keep private, and how this balance can liberate your creative voice. Why You Should Listen: If you’re an author or creative concerned about maintaining your personal privacy while exercising your right to free expression, this episode is for you. Claire blends snark, insight, and personal anecdotes to help you navigate these complex issues in a rapidly changing world. Whether you’re worried about government overreach, digital surveillance, or just the erosion of personal boundaries, you’ll gain practical perspectives on how to protect your privacy and empower your writing. Support the Show: If you found this episode thought-provoking and helpful, please leave a review on your favorite podcast platform and share it with fellow authors. Every review helps more writers discover this resource. Join the Conversation: How do you balance your need for privacy with the demands of building an audience? What are your thoughts on the current state of free speech and personal privacy? Share your insights with Claire by emailing contact@ffs.media or connecting on social media. Happy Writing!

Episode Description: In this episode of What If for Authors, Claire explores the challenges and benefits of being an action-oriented writer. Drawing on her Enneagram expertise, Claire delves into what it means to lead with action in your writing process—balancing the need to move forward with moments of pause for reflection and emotional connection. She shares personal insights on managing overwhelming schedules, the importance of intentional pauses, and how to leverage your innate action-oriented strengths without burning out. Key Takeaways: Understanding Action Orientation: Discover what it means to be an action-oriented writer and how it may manifest differently based on your Enneagram type and subtype. Recognize that being action oriented doesn’t preclude using planning or intuition—it's about finding your unique balance. The Power of Pausing: Learn why even action oriented writers benefit from occasional pauses to check in with their emotions and thoughts. Explore strategies to avoid unproductive action that arises from trying to outrun negative feelings. Balancing Productivity with Self-Care: Understand the pitfalls of overloading your schedule with responsibilities as a misguided attempt to maintain control. Embrace the idea that taking time to pause, reflect, and even connect with loved ones can ultimately enhance your writing. Practical Strategies: Consider setting up realistic, sustainable work habits and allowing room for flexibility in your creative process. Use techniques like mindfulness to refocus and reclaim your energy when your schedule feels overwhelming. Why You Should Listen: If you’re an author who thrives on action but finds yourself occasionally overwhelmed by your own pace or the pressure to always be moving forward, this episode is for you. Claire offers a refreshing perspective on how to harness your action-oriented strengths while incorporating essential pauses for growth and self-reflection. Whether you're struggling to maintain balance or looking for ways to optimize your creative process, you'll gain valuable insights to empower your author journey. Support the Show: If you enjoyed this episode, please consider leaving a review on your favorite podcast platform and sharing the show with fellow authors. Every review helps more writers discover these insights and join our community. Join the Conversation: We’d love to hear your thoughts! How do you balance action and reflection in your writing process? What strategies have helped you avoid burnout while staying productive? Share your insights with Claire by emailing contact@ffs.media or connect on social media. Transition Announcement: As a quick update, Claire announces that the podcast will be transitioning from a weekly to a monthly schedule. This change will help ensure the quality and sustainability of the show and protect Claire’s sanity, so be sure to stay tuned for the next episode! Happy Writing!

Episode Description: In this episode of What If? For Authors, Claire tackles a provocative and timely topic: the potential loss of free speech. Drawing on the historical significance of the First Amendment, Claire explores how these protections have empowered authors—especially satire writers—to express themselves without fear. She delves into the evolving political landscape and the implications for authors in the United States and beyond. Expect a mix of humor, snark, and deep insight as Claire challenges us to examine our own beliefs and the power dynamics at play in our society. Key Takeaways: Understanding Free Speech: Learn what the First Amendment truly guarantees for writers and how it supports creative expression, including satire and critique. The Erosion of Rights: Reflect on the historical context of free speech in America and the ongoing threats posed by authoritarian tendencies. Navigating the Debate: Consider how differing interpretations of free speech fuel polarizing debates, from the use of hate speech to the protection of controversial ideas. Empowerment Through Expression: Realize that exercising free speech is not only a personal right but a collective responsibility to foster liberation rather than oppression. Maintaining Balance: Learn to ground yourself in truth and facts, even when facing external pressures that aim to sow confusion and doubt. Why You Should Listen: If you're an author who values the freedom to express your ideas and critiques, or if you're concerned about the subtle shifts in free speech rights under current political pressures, this episode is essential listening. Claire offers a thoughtful, unfiltered exploration of how our legal and cultural landscape is changing—and what that means for your voice as a writer. Whether you’re a staunch defender of free expression or just looking for reassurance amid uncertainty, you’ll find valuable insights and a healthy dose of perspective in today’s discussion. Support the Show: If you found this episode thought-provoking, please leave a review on your favorite podcast platform and share it with fellow authors. Every review helps us reach more writers and fuels this ongoing conversation about creativity, freedom, and responsibility. Join the Conversation: What are your thoughts on the current state of free speech in our society? Have you noticed any changes that affect your work as an author? Share your insights and experiences by reaching out to Claire at contact@ffs.media or connect with her on social media. Access the transcript here. Happy Writing!

Episode Description: Welcome back to What If? For Authors! In this episode, Claire tackles the often-preached but rarely questioned idea of consistency in the writing world. If you've ever felt stressed about not maintaining a perfect daily writing habit or worried that inconsistency might ruin your career, this episode is for you. Key Highlights: Why Consistency Gets Overhyped: Many authors are told that success depends on consistent daily output, but is that really true? Claire shares her frustrations with the industry’s obsession over this idea and why it may not be the golden rule we think it is. The Problem with the "One Size Fits All" Approach: Some writers thrive on daily word counts; others don’t. The myth that consistency guarantees success vs. the reality of different creative rhythms. The Hidden Truth: You’re Already Consistent in Important Ways Everyone has consistent patterns in how they think, feel, and act. From how you handle plot holes to how you react to surprise opportunities—your personality is already shaping your writing patterns. The Enneagram perspective: different types naturally approach consistency differently, and that’s okay. Support the Show: If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review on your favorite podcast platform and share it with your fellow authors. Join the Conversation:Share your thoughts and questions by reaching out to Claire at contact@ffs.media. Access the transcript here. Happy Writing!

Episode Description: Welcome to another episode of What If? For Authors! This week, Claire dives into the topic of thinking-oriented writers and explores how leading from the head center can shape your writing process. Key Takeaways: Understanding the Centers of Intelligence: The Enneagram divides personality patterns into three centers—thinking (head), feeling (heart), and action (body/gut). Learn what it means to lead from the head center as a writer. How Thinking-Oriented Writers Approach Writing: Fives: Intellectual problem solvers who thrive on discovery writing but may struggle with revisions. Sixes: Planners who sometimes over-rely on outside validation but have incredible gut instincts when they trust themselves. Sevens: Action-driven writers who crave mental stimulation and often benefit from keeping surprises in their drafts. Balancing Your Strengths and Blind Spots: Discover how thinking-oriented writers can navigate challenges in their writing, whether that means adding emotional depth or pacing up their narratives. Practical Tips for Thinking-Oriented Writers: Don’t overthink your process—sometimes the best way to solve a plot issue is to dive in and write through it. Revisions can address areas like pacing, emotion, or over-explanation without compromising your unique style. Support the Show: If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review on your favorite podcast platform and share it with your fellow authors. Join the Conversation:Share your thoughts and questions by reaching out to Claire at contact@ffs.media. Access the transcript here. Happy Writing!

Episode Description: Welcome back to What If? For Authors! In this thought-provoking episode, Claire dives into a topic that resonates deeply with many authors: the fear of losing control when juggling life's many responsibilities. Fresh off a much-needed vacation, Claire reflects on the importance of stepping back, questioning the pressures we put on ourselves, and identifying patterns that lead to unnecessary stress. She explores why we take on so much responsibility, how our desire for control drives this behavior, and the toll it takes on our mental and physical well-being. Through relatable anecdotes, actionable insights, and a compassionate approach, Claire challenges listeners to reconsider what they're truly responsible for and where they can let go. What You'll Learn in This Episode: Why many authors fall into the trap of being "responsibility addicts" How taking responsibility can create a false sense of control over unpredictable outcomes The impact of excessive responsibility on your mental and physical health How perfectionism and over-commitment often mask deeper fears Practical strategies to identify and release unnecessary responsibilities Why focusing on what you can control—your thoughts, feelings, and actions—leads to freedom and meaningful influence Key Takeaways: Let go of the reins: You’re not holding as much together as you think, and that’s liberating. Challenge your thoughts: Not every thought you have is a fact. Question the stories your brain tells you. Spot the lies: If you're taking on tasks for a sense of control rather than measurable results, it might be time to reassess. Focus on influence, not control: Shift your attention inward to the things you can control, like your mindset and actions, and let the ripple effects unfold naturally. Embrace imperfection: Perfectionism is an anxiety response, not a badge of honor. Free yourself from its grip. Support the Show: If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review on your favorite podcast platform and share it with your fellow authors. Join the Conversation:Share your thoughts and questions by reaching out to Claire at contact@ffs.media. Happy Writing!

Episode Description: In this episode of What If? For Authors, Claire dives into a common fear among authors: what to do when your ads stop working. Whether you're an indie author relying on ads to sell your books or just starting to explore ad platforms like Amazon or Facebook, Claire offers practical advice and mindset strategies to help you navigate this challenge. With insights from her own experience running ads since 2015, Claire breaks down why ads can stop performing, how to analyze their effectiveness, and what steps to take when you're frustrated or burned out by the process. This episode is a mix of actionable tactics and emotional support for authors who feel stuck with their ad strategies. Key Takeaways Why Ads Are Essential for Authors: Paid ads are a key tool for reaching readers, especially for indie and hybrid authors. Most six- and seven-figure authors rely on ads, though profitability varies. The Reality of Ad Platforms: Platforms like Amazon and Facebook prioritize their own profits, not yours. Algorithms and rules are constantly changing—authors must adapt. Analyzing Ad Performance: Define what "working" means for your ads—are they profitable, or just underperforming? Run the numbers to get clear on ROI (return on investment). Don’t rely solely on ad dashboards, as their data can be unreliable. Mindset Shifts for Success: Accept that some ads stop working and let go when necessary. Practice emotional resilience and avoid chasing sunk costs. Strategies When Ads Stop Working: Lower budgets on underperforming ads rather than turning them off completely. Seek advice or refresh your knowledge about ad platforms. Consider outsourcing your ad management if the process is too overwhelming. Emotional Awareness: Acknowledge the emotions behind your frustration—fear, insecurity, or past negative experiences with data and numbers. Approach your ad strategy with curiosity and clarity, keeping emotions in check. Support the Show: If you found this episode helpful, please leave a review on your favorite podcast platform and share the show with your fellow authors. Every review helps more writers discover this resource. Join the Conversation:Share your thoughts and questions by reaching out to Claire at contact@ffs.media. Happy Writing!

Episode Description: In this episode of What If for Authors, Claire dives into the deeply ingrained habit of comparing ourselves to others—why we do it, how it affects us, and how we can learn to shift from harmful patterns of comparison toward curiosity and growth. Whether you're a writer struggling with self-doubt or simply a human navigating the complexities of social dynamics, this episode is packed with insights and actionable advice. Key Takeaways Why We Compare Ourselves to OthersEvolutionary roots of comparison and its role in social survival. How Comparison Impacts WritersFrom comparing your books to others in your genre to the challenges of writing to market. The Enneagram and ComparisonHow each type’s core fear influences the way we compare and react. Shifting from Judgment to CuriosityPractical tips for recognizing harmful patterns of comparison and replacing them with curiosity. When to Take a BreakWhy stepping back from comp authors or genre-specific reading may help reset your mindset. Why Listen: If you’ve ever felt bogged down by comparisons and self-doubt, this episode will help you take the first steps toward freeing yourself from the cycle. Tune in and start embracing your unique path as an author. Support the Show: If you found this episode helpful, please leave a review on your favorite podcast platform and share the show with your fellow authors. Every review helps more writers discover this resource. Join the Conversation:Share your thoughts and questions by reaching out to Claire at contact@ffs.media. Happy Writing!

Episode Description: In this candid and thought-provoking episode of What If? For Authors, Claire tackles one of the most polarizing topics in the writing world today: artificial intelligence. As authors grapple with the rise of AI, Claire delves into the underlying fears, anger, and ethical dilemmas shaping the debate. Claire begins by addressing the elephant in the room: the pervasive fear of AI and its potential to replace or harm authors. From the "original sin" of AI training on copyrighted material to the polarized stances authors take, this episode seeks to explore the emotional and psychological roots of these perspectives rather than taking a definitive stance. Whether you're staunchly anti-AI, an advocate for integrating technology into your writing process, or somewhere in between, Claire invites you to approach this topic with intellectual humility. She examines how fear manifests in our behavior, discusses the scapegoating and witch-hunting tendencies emerging in the author community, and offers insights into how we can navigate this uncertain terrain without losing ourselves in the extremes. Key Takeaways The fear response triggered by AI and how it affects authors. The "original sin" of AI: ethical concerns surrounding copyright and justice. Intellectual humility and the pitfalls of entrenched positions. The tyranny of extremes in the AI debate. Enneagram insights: How each type might engage with the AI discussion. Support the Show: If you found this episode helpful, please leave a review on your favorite podcast platform and share the show with your fellow authors. Every review helps more writers discover this resource. Join the Conversation:Where do you fall on this debate? Share your thoughts and questions by reaching out to Claire at contact@ffs.media. Access the transcript here. Happy Writing!

Episode Description: In this thought-provoking episode of What If for Authors, Claire explores the topic of career pivots and how they relate to the ever-evolving world of writing and publishing. Drawing from her personal experience, Enneagram insights, and industry knowledge, Claire helps authors reflect on when it might be time to make a change and how to approach that transition with clarity and courage. Claire also shares candid updates about her own journey, including navigating energy shifts, health challenges, and a pivot point in her career. This episode is packed with actionable advice, Enneagram wisdom, and encouragement for authors grappling with the question: What if it’s time for a pivot? Key Takeaways What is a pivot?: A career change that arises when the old path no longer serves your goals, values, or circumstances. Recognizing the right time: How to identify when staying on the current course creates more friction than moving toward a new direction. Enneagram insights: Each Enneagram type’s tendencies and challenges when it comes to making or resisting career pivots. Overcoming fear: How core fears and social connections influence your ability to make changes and how to build resilience against them. The value of outside perspective: Why sharing your pivot idea with a supportive and unbiased group can help shatter limited perspectives and make better decisions. Support the Show: If you found this episode helpful, please leave a review on your favorite podcast platform and share the show with your fellow authors. Every review helps more writers discover this resource. Join the Conversation:Is it time for a pivot in your author career? Share your thoughts and questions by reaching out to Claire at contact@ffs.media. Access the transcript here. Happy Writing!