The Fun with Friends Podcast

S4E7: So Long, But Not Goodbye - A Podcast Host’s Farewell

As your host, Arden Coutts, I'm taking a moment to reflect and possibly bid goodbye to the Fun with Friends podcast. After four years of podcasting, I find myself at a crossroads, weighing the joy of the past and the struggle of the present. It's been an incredible journey that started as a means to pull myself out of mental turmoil, eventually leading to starting my own business, meeting amazing people, and fostering a community of listeners. Yet lately, the inspiration has waned, and the once exciting activity feels more like a chore.This isn't the end, though, as I invite you to join me on my new journey of writing and book publishing, which has recently been my primary focus. I'll keep you updated through my social media @ArdenCoutts, where you'll find everything from the mundane adulting struggles to the exciting news about my upcoming book, now available for pre-order. While I'm stepping away from the podcast, I'm not ruling out a return in the future with a fresh format, possibly including a co-host and fewer interviews. It's not a goodbye but a sweet see you later, as I share some final reflections, experiences, and even a few podcast recommendations. Let's go on this ride together, and as always, let's have some fun!Support the show

S4E6: Inside the Writing Process with Indie Author K. Sterling: From Imposter Syndrome to Genre-Switching

Prepare for an enlightening journey as we sit down with the incredibly talented indie author, K. Sterling, who has captivated readers with her successful 'Nannies of New York series. This episode is packed with invaluable insights into K's unique process of story creation, starting with a mere vibe and masterfully crafting scenes to induce chemistry between characters. We dive deep into reading craft books and K's golden advice for emerging authors. We then navigate the often turbulent waters of genre-switching and the associated challenges and rewards. K offers an unfiltered account of her departure from one series to the next, which entailed a change in her writing style, a publishing house setback, and the daunting task of rebuilding her brand. We also get an exclusive preview into K's upcoming projects, including the sapphic cottage summer bonanza, 'The Enchanting Nanny,' and a gripping FBI trilogy tainted with a hint of witchcraft.As we prepare to wrap up, we delve into the emotional challenge of releasing personal work into the public sphere and the vital role self-belief plays in a writer's journey. K candidly shares her struggles with imposter syndrome and provides practical advice on how to overcome it. So, come on board for an inspiring journey into the captivating world of writing with the remarkable K Sterling.Connect with K:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/_ksterling_/Website: https://www.ksterlingbooks.com/Follow the Fun with Friends Podcast!Instagram: @funwithfriendspodcastInstagram: @ardencouttswww.ardencoutts.comBe sure to like, subscribe, rate, and review!Support the show

S4E5: Writing Fall Into Midnight with host, Arden Coutts

In this week's episode, host Arden Coutts discusses the writing process for their debut novel, Fall Into Midnight. Arden talks about the writing process, editing, and finding a cover artist for Fall Into Midnight. Arden's novella, Before We Fall, is currently available for FREE on their website. Pick up your copy today!Follow the Fun with Friends Podcast!Instagram: @funwithfriendspodcastInstagram: @ardencouttswww.ardencoutts.comBe sure to like, subscribe, rate, and review!Support the show

S4E4: Angsty Queer Romance with Author Jay Leigh

In this week's episode, host Arden Coutts is joined by author Jay Leigh!Jay talks about their writing process and debut novel, Whisper Into the Night. We also get the inside scoop on Jay's upcoming book releases! Jay Leigh is an author as well as a voracious reader of primarily M/M romance novels filled with all sorts of goodies like action, suspense, emotions, and spice. Lots of spice...Connect with Jay LeighInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/jayelle_m/Website: https://authorjayleigh.comFollow the Fun with Friends Podcast!Instagram: @funwithfriendspodcastInstagram: @ardencouttswww.ardencoutts.comBe sure to like, subscribe, rate, and review!Support the show

S4E3: Steamy Queer Rom-Coms with Author M.A. Wardell

In this week's episode, host Arden Coutts is joined by author M.A. Wardell!Matt talks about his writing process and his debut novel, Teacher of the Year, and he shares tons of amazing tips!Matt writes steamy queer rom-coms, and his goal is to tell adult gay love stories with a diverse representation of flawed and damaged characters who find healing through love.Connect with M.A. WardellInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/mawardellauthor/Website: https://www.mawardell.com/Follow the Fun with Friends Podcast!Instagram: @funwithfriendspodcastInstagram: @ardencouttswww.ardencoutts.comBe sure to like, subscribe, rate, and review!Support the show