Author Series
In today’s episode, I talk with Kerrie Droban, an award-winning true crime author and criminal & family attorney. With numerous appearances and interviews on national television and radio shows, she has established herself as an expert on the pathology of the criminal mind, motorcycle gangs, and a mentor to new and aspiring true crime writers.
Today’s episode discusses how Kerrie has grown a successful writing career.
Some top tips …
Writers and aspiring writers should say yes to opportunities when they come your way.
When conducting research for a book, Kerrie recommends getting your information as quickly as possible because you don’t know if sources will continue to be available the entire time you’re writing your book.
Don’t wait to start until you know your exact mission, purpose, etc. You will discover that along the way and it will make sense in hindsight.
Value the story that you’re telling. It should come from the soul, that you’re passionate about, that you want to tell, and feel like there’s value in telling that story.
Make sure you love the subject matter of your book because you’ll spend a ton of time immersed in what you’re writing and researching because it will consume you.
Never, ever, ever rely on your publisher to do your promotion for you. This is your business and it’s up to you to promote it. Promotion starts nine months in advance of your book release.
This episode at glance …
>> (3:35-7:20) How Kerrie switched from writing fiction & poetry to true crime
>> (7:25-26:00) How she found her first agent and publisher
>> (9:05-11:20) Tips on building your platform as a writer
>> (11:30-13:05) The most effective way Kerrie has found to do her research for her books
>> (18:55-26:15) Don’t get caught up in having everything in advance. Let the book take you on the journey to learn, develop your expertise, and only tell stories you believe are worth telling.
>> (26:30-27:00) Know the takeaways you want to communicate to frame the story. That makes the difference between sharing something that reads like a journalistic piece or police report vs. a compelling story that leads people to act.
>> (28:50-34:30) How to write consistently when you are a mom, have another career, and have a deadline.
>> (35:00-42:00) Tips to promote your books and your brand.
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Links to reach Kerrie Droban & Christie Bilbrey
Kerrie’s books on Amazon
Kerrie’s writing workshop : https://www.kerriedroban.com/true-crime-writing-workshop/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kerrie-droban/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kerrie_droban
Download my free guide: 10 Tips to Grow Your Business as a Podcast Guest
Instagram: https://instagram.com/christiebilbrey