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Writing a book is hard. Publishing it is even harder. Succeeding as an author? That’s practically wizardry. Good thing you don’t have to figure it all out alone. Pros Talking Prose is your backstage pass to the writing and publishing world, hosted by seasoned pros Stacey Smekofske and Troy Lambert. We’ll help you skip the mistakes, laugh through the chaos, and build the writing career you actually want without the smoke and mirrors. New episodes every week. Therapy not included — but highly encouraged.
Episodes
Friday Dec 19, 2025
Friday Dec 19, 2025
Publishing didn’t explode in 2025.
It didn’t collapse either.
It… buffered.
In this gloriously chaotic year-in-review episode, Stacey and Troy talk through what a lot of authors are quietly feeling but rarely saying out loud: the industry hit a reset button, AI showed up like a spicy autocomplete with opinions, reader culture got meaner, expectations got louder, and everyone somehow ended the year exhausted and behind—even when they weren’t.
We unpack:
Why 2025 felt more like a recalibration than a breakout
How AI is actually fitting into the writing process (hint: it’s a tool, not your brain)
The rise of author hate, social pile-ons, and why engaging less might save your career
Why debut novels aren’t sacred cows and perfectionism stalls growth
Burnout, guilt, and why taking real time off might be the most professional move you make
The uncomfortable truth: being human is now a competitive advantage
This episode is part publishing industry analysis, part author survival guide, and part permission slip to stop apologizing for needing rest—especially during the holidays.
And because we apparently can’t stop ourselves, we’re taking this conversation live.
📅 Join us LIVE on the 27th for a real-time Q&A where we’ll talk 2026 goals, publishing strategy, AI realities, and whatever else authors want to throw at us. Come caffeinated. Or tired. Both are valid.
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