On the Write Track Podcast

Hosted by Sarah Mughal Rana, Emily Varga

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Oct 2026

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About the show

On the Write Track is a podcast from debut authors Sarah Mughal Rana and Emily Varga that address the little known secrets of traditional publishing and behind the scenes, from guests in different stages in the industry, to provide our listeners an insider's look. Guests include New York Times, International bestselling, and critically acclaimed authors, agents, Big 4 publishing editors, successful Tik Tok book influencers, marketers, and everything in between. Follow our socials and subscribe for the latest updates. Consider signing up to our Patreon page, even a small help goes a long way, to support the podcast, receive unique perks, and get exclusive Q&A access and writing advice from us!

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52 recent

October 1, 20261 hr 0 min

51: Penn Cole on Indie Grit and a Traditional Publishing Deal

In this episode of On the Write Track, Emily sits down with Penn Cole, New York Times and USA Today bestselling author of the Kindred's Curse Saga, to talk about the wild, unlikely road from self-publishing to a traditional deal with a Big 5 publisher. Penn opens up about leaving a career as an attorney to chase writing full time, and the leap of faith it took to bet on herself before anyone else would. We dig into the highs and lows of going indie first: what it actually took to self-publish Spark of the Everflame and Glow of the Everflame, build an audience from nothing, and turn a passion project into a series that would eventually sell in sixteen languages. Penn is candid about the grind behind the "overnight success" story, and what nobody tells you about the pressure that comes once readers start paying attention. We also get into her transition to traditional publishing, why she chose to bring her books to a Big 5 creating a hybrid career, after already building a loyal readership on her own, and how she's navigated keeping creative control while working within a traditional structure. Penn shares what surprised her most about the differences between indie and traditional, from marketing to timelines to expectations, and offers grounded advice for writers trying to decide which path, or which hybrid of both, is right for them. From a career change to global fantasy romance sensation, this episode is a candid, look at building a career on your own terms, and what it really takes to get there. Penn Cole Website Instagram TikTok Threads Dabble Books Mentioned - We strongly encourage that listeners purchase these titles from their favorite indie bookstore Spark of the Everflame by Penn Cole Glow of the Everflame by Penn Cole Heat of the Everflame by Penn Cole Burn of the Everflame by Penn Cole Daggermouth by H.M. Wolfe A Court of Thorns and Rose by Sarah Maas Ruby Dixon Emily Varga's books Sarah Mughal Rana's books Come back on the first Thursday of every month for a brand new episode of On the Write Track Pod. Make sure you hit the follow button to get notified, and like and subscribe to the podcast wherever you listen! Sign up to our Patreon where you can receive exclusive perks, some for as little as the cost of a coffee! Did you enjoy the episode? Please leave us a review! Follow the podcast @OntheWriteTrackPodcast on Instagram. Also connect with Sarah and Emily on Instagram or TikTok!

September 3, 202653 min

50: Jennifer Iacopelli on Netflix, Second Chances in Writing & the Staying Power of Sports Romance

On this episode of On the Write Track , Sarah and Emily sit down with bestselling author Jennifer Iacopelli to talk about the incredible journey of seeing her books find a whole new life through a Netflix adaptation. Jennifer shares what it’s like watching her work make the leap from page to screen, from her role in the adaptation and working alongside the cast to the experience of seeing readers rediscover her books years after they were first published. We also dive into the unique appeal of sports romance and why stories that combine competition, ambition, romance and high-stakes drama continue to resonate so strongly with romance readers. Jennifer opens up about building a long-lasting writing career, the importance of longevity in publishing, and why she made the decision not to quit her day job while pursuing writing. She shares lessons on balancing a career, creativity and the unpredictable nature of publishing; what aspiring authors can learn from her journey. Whether you’re an aspiring writer, a longtime romance reader or simply curious about what happens when a beloved book gets to go to the big screen, this is an episode about resilience and staying in the game. Jennifer Iacopelli Website Instagram Books Mentioned - We strongly encourage that listeners purchase these titles from their favorite indie bookstore Game, Set, Match by Jennifer Iacopelli Break the Fall by Jennifer Iacopelli Finding Her Edge by Jennifer Iacopelli Wildcard by Jennifer Iacopelli Emily Varga's books Sarah Mughal Rana's books Come back on the first Thursday of every month for a brand new episode of On the Write Track Pod. Make sure you hit the follow button to get notified, and like and subscribe to the podcast wherever you listen! Sign up to our Patreon where you can receive exclusive perks, some for as little as the cost of a coffee! Did you enjoy the episode? Please leave us a review! Follow the podcast @OntheWriteTrackPodcast on Instagram. Also connect with Sarah and Emily on Instagram or TikTok!

May 7, 202649 min

49: Tigest Girma on Perseverance, Black Vampires, and Using TikTok to Break Through

In this episode of On the Write Track, Emily and Sarah sit down with Tigest Girma to talk about what it really takes to keep going as a writer. Tigest opens up about perseverance, writing through rejection, self-doubt, and long stretches of uncertainty, and why continuing to write and show up on the page mattered. We dig into her relationship with prose: how she developed and edited, and how she learned to trust her instincts even when they didn’t fit trends. Tigest also shares how she used TikTok and social media intentionally, not just for visibility, but for connection—building an audience while still protecting her creative process. From staying consistent with writing, to navigating online spaces as an author, to believing in your work before the industry does, this conversation is a candid, motivating look at resilience, and making space for your voice. Tigest Girma Website Instagram TikTok Film Courage YouTube Channel Books Mentioned - We strongly encourage that listeners purchase these titles from their favorite indie bookstore Immortal Dark by Tigest Girma Eternal Ruin by Tigest Girma Children of Blood and Bone by Tomi Adeyemi The Anatomy of Story by John Truby The Emotional Craft of Fiction by Donald Maass Big Magic by Elizabeth Gilbert Emily Varga's books Sarah Mughal Rana's books Come back on the first Thursday of every month for a brand new episode of On the Write Track Pod. Make sure you hit the follow button to get notified, and like and subscribe to the podcast wherever you listen! Sign up to our Patreon where you can receive exclusive perks, some for as little as the cost of a coffee! Did you enjoy the episode? Please leave us a review! It really helps the podcast, especially since we're just getting started. Follow the podcast @OntheWriteTrackPodcast on Instagram. Also connect with Sarah and Emily on Instagram or TikTok! Come back on the first Thursday of every month for a brand new episode of On the Write Track Pod. Make sure you hit the follow button to get notified, and like and subscribe to the podcast wherever you listen! Sign up to our Patreon where you can receive exclusive perks, some for as little as the cost of a coffee! Did you enjoy the episode? Please leave us a review! Follow the podcast @OntheWriteTrackPodcast on Instagram. Also connect with Sarah and Emily on Instagram or TikTok!

April 2, 202645 min

48: Jill Tew: Dystopian Worlds & Bringing Business on Hustle, Romantasy, and Reinventing Dystopian Fiction

In this episode, Sarah and Emily sit down with author Jill Tew for an unfiltered conversation about the dystopian genre and the hustle of writing. Jill shares how she’s making space in dystopian fiction by challenging white washed narratives, tropes and championing BIPOC voices, while weaving in romantasy. We dive into the misconceptions about the dystopian genre, what’s still missing on the shelves, and how Jill’s business-school background and approach—including printing her own physical ARCs for readers—has set her apart. We talk about writing both middle grade and YA and adult SFF. If you’ve ever wondered how to blend business and writing with a growth mindset, this is the episode for you. Jill Tew Website Instagram Substack Books Mentioned - We strongly encourage that listeners purchase these titles from their favorite indie bookstore The Dividing Sky by Jill Tew Kaya Morgan's Crowning Achievement by Jill Tew An Ocean Apart by Jill Tew Climate of Chaos by Cassandra Newbould Chain-Gang All-Stars by Nana Kwame Adjei-Brenyah Lore of the Wilds series Legendborn by Tracy Deonn Blood over Brighthaven by M.L. Wang Sword of Kaigen by M.L. Wang Emily Varga's books Sarah Mughal Rana's books Come back on the first Thursday of every month for a brand new episode of On the Write Track Pod. Make sure you hit the follow button to get notified, and like and subscribe to the podcast wherever you listen! Sign up to our Patreon where you can receive exclusive perks, some for as little as the cost of a coffee! Did you enjoy the episode? Please leave us a review! Follow the podcast @OntheWriteTrackPodcast on Instagram. Also connect with Sarah and Emily on Instagram or TikTok!

March 5, 202653 min

47: Rebecca Ross: on Writing Her Book of the Heart, Perseverance, Health, and Longevity

In this episode of On the Write Track, Sarah and Emily sit down with Rebecca Ross, #1 New York Times bestselling author of Divine Rivals, to talk about the journey behind her long career and “book of the heart.” Rebecca shares candidly about the perseverance it took to keep going through the ups and downs of publishing, changing teams, and even the health struggles of constantly being on deadline. We also explore Rebecca’s works—from her YA fantasies The Queen’s Rising to her adult, A River Enchanted and its sequel A Fire Endless, and her latest viral phenomenon Divine Rivals and now Wild Reverence, and the inspiration behind the spin off. We go into the reaction when Divine Rivals went viral, and what it’s been like to see her work picked up for a television adaptation; Rebecca’s craft, exploring how she balances lyrical prose with storytelling, and the lessons she’s learned about building a career with both resilience and perseverance. This episode is a celebration of longevity, staying true to your vision, and creating stories that endure, while avoiding burn out. Rebecca Ross Website Instagram Books Mentioned - We strongly encourage that listeners purchase these titles from their favorite indie bookstore Divine Rivals by Rebecca Ross Ruthless Vows by Rebecca Ross Wild Reverence by Rebecca Ross A River Enchanted by Rebecca Ross A Fire Endless by Rebecca Ross Dreams Lie Beneath by Rebecca Ross The Queen's Rising by Rebecca Ross The Queen's Resistance by Rebecca Ross Sisters of Sword and Song by Rebecca Ross An Enchantment of Ravens by Margaret Rogerson Jane Eyre by Charlotte Bronte Persuasion by Jane Austen Break Wide the Sea by Sarah Holland Emily Varga's books Sarah Mughal Rana's books Come back on the first Thursday of every month for a brand new episode of On the Write Track Pod. Make sure you hit the follow button to get notified, and like and subscribe to the podcast wherever you listen! Sign up to our Patreon where you can receive exclusive perks, some for as little as the cost of a coffee! Did you enjoy the episode? Please leave us a review! Follow the podcast @OntheWriteTrackPodcast on Instagram. Also connect with Sarah and Emily on Instagram or TikTok!

February 5, 202658 min

46: Ken Liu: Imagination, Invention, and the Future of Fantasy

Join Emily and Sarah for a conversation with award-winning author Ken Liu — the Hugo, Nebula, and World Fantasy Award–winning writer behind The Paper Menagerie and The Grace of Kings, whose work include both riveting short stories and novels. In this episode we dive into his journey, from making the leap to full-time writing, to navigating film and book industry opportunities, and explore how he builds stories that operate not just as narratives but as metaphors for identity, culture, and technology. Ken discusses his newest novel, All That We See or Seem, a near-future thriller where art, AI, and human yearning intersect, and the conversations talks about the evolving fantasy and sci-fi market. We cover, the moment he decided to write full time, and how that opened doors beyond publishing. His method of embedding metaphor in every short story from a craft angle to ground it in deeper themes. His take on fantasy and science fiction today: how the genre is changing in a bigger romantasy market, what readers are looking for, and where he sees it headed. And a thoughtful discussion on AI and art: what it means for creators, for originality, for the future of storytelling. Whether you’re a writer, a sci-fi fan, or simply curious about how an author thinks about art in tech-driven times, this episode offers a thoughtful, dive into the craft and the future from one of the best and celebrated writers of our generation. Ken Liu Website Books Mentioned - We strongly encourage that listeners purchase these titles from their favorite indie bookstore All That We See or Seem by Ken Liu The Paper Menagerie and Other Stories by Ken Liu The Grace of Kings by Ken Liu Paradise Lost by John Milton Percy Jackson series Emily Varga's books Sarah Mughal Rana's books Come back on the first Thursday of every month for a brand new episode of On the Write Track Pod. Make sure you hit the follow button to get notified, and like and subscribe to the podcast wherever you listen! Sign up to our Patreon where you can receive exclusive perks, some for as little as the cost of a coffee! Did you enjoy the episode? Please leave us a review! Follow the podcast @OntheWriteTrackPodcast on Instagram. Also connect with Sarah and Emily on Instagram or TikTok!

January 1, 202646 min

45: James Islington on Craft, Career, and Creating The Will of the Many

From a tech startup to bestselling fantasy author, James Islington joins hosts Sarah and Emily for an episode of On the Write Track for a deep dive into the discipline, worldbuilding, and creative instincts behind his craft and fantasy books. We explore how James made the leap from a tech career to full-time writing, how his indie beginnings shaped his career, and what changed when he transitioned to traditional publishing. James shares the many rejections early in his career; how he treats writing like a 9-to-5 job, the routines that keep him grounded, and the lessons he’s learned while building massive fantasy worlds. We get into the inspirations behind The Will of the Many—from Celtic lore to Egyptian mythology—and how he balances research, hard magic systems, mystery, and emotional stakes across a long series arc. James also answers questions on spoilers in his books; the length of the Hierarchy series, the ending, and offers invaluable advice for emerging fantasy writers on process, persistence, and trusting the story you’re meant to tell. SPOILER NOTE! - 16:58 → 20:53 James Islington's Website Books Mentioned - We strongly encourage that listeners purchase these titles from their favorite indie bookstore The Licanius Trilogy by James Islington The Will of the Many by James Islington The Strength of a Few by James Islington The Wheel of Time by Robert Jordan The Name of the Wind by Patrick Rothfruss Demon Copperhead by Barbara Kingsolver Brandon Sanderson Emily Varga's books Sarah Mughal Rana's books Come back on the first Thursday of every month for a brand new episode of On the Write Track Pod. Make sure you hit the follow button to get notified, and like and subscribe to the podcast wherever you listen! Sign up to our Patreon where you can receive exclusive perks, some for as little as the cost of a coffee! Did you enjoy the episode? Please leave us a review! Follow the podcast @OntheWriteTrackPodcast on Instagram. Also connect with Sarah and Emily on Instagram or TikTok!

December 4, 202545 min

44: Tina Mars: Following the Energy

In this episode of On the Write Track, Emily and Sarah sit down with Tina Mars, one of Bookstagram’s breakout stars turned debut fantasy author. Tina shares how a simple love for reading grew into a thriving online community, what inspired her to start posting in the first place, and the journey to full-time content creator. She opens up about the ups and downs of growing her platform and business, the lessons she’s learned about consistency and authenticity, and how she leveraged her audience to find an agent and secure a book deal for her upcoming fantasy novel. Tina also offers practical, heartfelt advice for aspiring creators, from building your personal brand to managing burnout and staying true to your voice online. Whether you’re a writer hoping to build your platform or a Bookstagrammer, or a writer aiming to have your own book deal, this episode is a motivating deep dive! Tina Mars Website Instagram Youtube Dabble Timer Books Mentioned - We strongly encourage that listeners purchase these titles from their favorite indie bookstore The Book of Azrael by Amber V Nicole The Hurricane Wars by Thea Guanzon Trial of the Sun Queen by Nisha Tuli A Cruel Thirst by Angela Montoya Carnival Fantástico by Angela Montoya Emily Varga's books Sarah Mughal Rana's books Come back on the first Thursday of every month for a brand new episode of On the Write Track Pod. Make sure you hit the follow button to get notified, and like and subscribe to the podcast wherever you listen! Sign up to our Patreon where you can receive exclusive perks, some for as little as the cost of a coffee! Did you enjoy the episode? Please leave us a review! It really helps the podcast, especially since we're just getting started. Follow the podcast @OntheWriteTrackPodcast on Instagram. Also connect with Sarah and Emily on Instagram or TikTok! Come back on the first Thursday of every month for a brand new episode of On the Write Track Pod. Make sure you hit the follow button to get notified, and like and subscribe to the podcast wherever you listen! Sign up to our Patreon where you can receive exclusive perks, some for as little as the cost of a coffee! Did you enjoy the episode? Please leave us a review! Follow the podcast @OntheWriteTrackPodcast on Instagram. Also connect with Sarah and Emily on Instagram or TikTok!

November 6, 202553 min

43: Nisha Tuli: Crowning Your Own Success on Romantasy, and Owning Your Author Journey

This week, Sarah and Emily welcome bestselling romantasy author Nisha Tuli for an inspiring dive into building an authentic, sustainable career from indie to traditional publishing. Nisha opens up about her experience as an Indie author who has a South Asian heritage but also the fears of being boxed in, and how she hustled to grow her audience. We explore how she’s navigated the explosion of romantasy, the pressures and perks of genre labels, and the business mindset that helps her stay focused amid the noise, including switching agents and taking on multiple projects to grow. From having a loyal readership to branching out in adult, and now YA, as well as multi-genre stories that blend romance, magic, and diverse FMC’s, Nisha shares really valuable wisdom for any writer ready to grow. Nisha Tuli Website Instagram TikTok Becca Syme: Strengths For Writers 101 Books Mentioned - We strongly encourage that listeners purchase these titles from their favorite indie bookstore Not Safe for Work by Nisha Tuli Trial of the Sun Queen by Nisha Tuli Heart of Night and Fire by Nisha Tuli Wicked is the Reaper by Nisha Tuli Love is a War Song by Danica Nava Emily Varga's books Sarah Mughal Rana's books Come back on the first Thursday of every month for a brand new episode of On the Write Track Pod. Make sure you hit the follow button to get notified, and like and subscribe to the podcast wherever you listen! Sign up to our Patreon where you can receive exclusive perks, some for as little as the cost of a coffee! Did you enjoy the episode? Please leave us a review! It really helps the podcast, especially since we're just getting started. Follow the podcast @OntheWriteTrackPodcast on Instagram. Also connect with Sarah and Emily on Instagram or TikTok! Come back on the first Thursday of every month for a brand new episode of On the Write Track Pod. Make sure you hit the follow button to get notified, and like and subscribe to the podcast wherever you listen! Sign up to our Patreon where you can receive exclusive perks, some for as little as the cost of a coffee! Did you enjoy the episode? Please leave us a review! Follow the podcast @OntheWriteTrackPodcast on Instagram. Also connect with Sarah and Emily on Instagram or TikTok!

October 2, 202555 min

42: Melissa de la Cruz & Margaret Stohl on Writing, Reinvention, and Building Creative Worlds

Sarah and Emily sit down to discuss what does it take to not only survive but thrive across decades in publishing? In this episode of On the Write Track , we’re joined by literary powerhouses Melissa de la Cruz and Margaret Stohl: bestselling authors, and co-founders of YALLFest and YALLWest, two of the largest youth literature festivals in the country. We dive deep into their journeys through the evolving landscape of publishing: from writing bestselling YA series, to crafting graphic novels, developing games, and even adapting their work for film and television. Melissa and Margaret share how working across mediums has challenged and expanded their creative lives, and what it takes to stay adaptable in an industry that’s constantly shifting especially in the era of romantasy. But at the heart of this episode is a rich conversation about community; how festivals like YALLWest grew out of a desire to democratize the author-reader connection, how mentorship and collaboration have shaped their own careers, and why building supportive literary communities is crucial for both writers and readers to survive. We also get candid about the behind-the-scenes of adaptations, juggling commercial pressures with creative vision, and why saying yes to new opportunities and formats—from prose to scripts—has kept their careers thriving. If you're a writer wondering how to build lasting community, or explore new storytelling mediums, this episode is packed with wisdom, blunt hard-earned advice from two women who’ve truly done it all. Yall Fest Yall West Melissa de la Cruz Margaret Stohl Episode 06: G Willow Wilson: Co-creating Ms. Marvel, Writing for Comics & Having to Write your Marginalization Books Mentioned - We strongly encourage that listeners purchase these titles from their favorite indie bookstore Margaret Stohl's books Melissa de la Cruz's books Jo and Laurie by Margaret Stohl and Melissa de la Cruz Beautiful Creatures by Margaret Stohl Super Visible: The Story of the Women of Marvel Comics by Margaret Stohl War and Peace by Leo Tolstoy The Dark is Rising by Susan Cooper Legends and Lattes by Travis Baldtree The Doorman by Chris Pavone Emily Varga's books Sarah Mughal Rana's books Come back on the first Thursday of every month for a brand new episode of On the Write Track Pod. Make sure you hit the follow button to get notified, and like and subscribe to the podcast wherever you listen! Sign up to our Patreon where you can receive exclusive perks, some for as little as the cost of a coffee! Did you enjoy the episode? Please leave us a review! Follow the podcast @OntheWriteTrackPodcast on Instagram. Also connect with Sarah and Emily on Instagram or TikTok! Come back on the first Thursday of every month for a brand new episode of On the Write Track Pod. Make sure you hit the follow button to get notified, and like and subscribe to the podcast wherever you listen! Sign up to our Patreon where you can receive exclusive perks, some for as little as the cost of a coffee! Did you enjoy the episode? Please leave us a review! Follow the podcast @OntheWriteTrackPodcast on Instagram. Also connect with Sarah and Emily on Instagram or TikTok!