Writers are often told that publishing success comes from following the rules, but real progress happens when writers understand how the system actually works. In this practical, eye-opening session, Clay Stafford reframes publishing as a game of strategy rather than a rigid checklist. Attendees will learn the difference between playing the game and understanding it, why many careers stall because of positioning rather than craft, and how long-term thinking and thoughtful innovation can create real opportunity. Participants will leave with a clearer sense of how publishing operates behind the scenes and how strategic decisions can turn uncertainty into forward momentum.

Have you ever dreamed of seeing your name on the cover of a book but wondered how authors actually get there? Whether you’re still filling notebooks with ideas, polishing your first manuscript, or preparing to publish, this dynamic panel offers an insider’s look at the many paths to becoming a published author.

Join a diverse group of writers who represent different genres, publishing models, and career journeys. They’ll share the successes, setbacks, surprises, and lessons that transformed them from aspiring writers into working authors.

This fast-paced discussion goes far beyond the craft of writing. Discover how to edit like a professional, create news releases that attract attention, leverage podcasts and media appearances, build an audience, and explore marketing strategies ranging from practical to delightfully outrageous. Learn what works, what doesn’t, and what every aspiring author should know before taking the next step.

Bring your questions and your publishing dreams. You’ll leave with actionable ideas, fresh inspiration, and a clearer roadmap for turning “someday” into “published author.” 

If you’ve ever wondered whether you have what it takes to publish a book, this is the session you won’t want to miss.

12-12:25 PM Break

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Authors in the crime writing genre are often eager to learn more in-depth realities within the justice system and, along with it, the criminology and forensic fields. No matter your background, there is always so much more to learn. A panel of varied professionals within these fields will discuss scenarios and answer questions about realities, behaviors, and causation to assist writers in creating clarity, creativity, and authenticity in their fiction.

Panelists: Leslie Budewitz, Susan Magestro, and Margaret C. Morse

AI in the creative arts is a major concern these days. AI-assisted and AI-generative are key terms authors should understand so they can use AI without crossing an ethical boundary.

You write it. AI can provide a world of assistance, from checking grammar, spelling, and punctuation to discovering your comps, selecting appropriate keywords and metadata, production scheduling, audio recording, and more. (But be careful; even AI research must be verified!)
Our panel of an agent, a small publisher, and two authors using AI for production (not writing) will identify the difference between AI-assisted and AI-generative and discuss when and where AI assistance would or would not be appropriate.

Moderator: Sarah Smith

Panelists: Elizabeth Guthrie, Lara Helmling, Neil Plakcy

Author Branding
with Jeniffer ThompsonAuthors — Build a sustainable author brand that grows with you.Book marketing isn’t just about selling books—it’s about building an audience of loyal readers and being known. In this workshop, Jeniffer Thompson shows you how to elevate your authority, design your personal brand, and increase your online visibility. You’ll leave with practical tools and a three-year roadmap to guide your publishing career.

Recap
with Christina Estes

View all Saturday faculty here.

Please note: Registration for CraftNOW!, EditNOW!, PitchNOW! and the Networking Social closes on September 16, 2026 at 11:59 p.m.

Save the Dates:  September 18-19, 2026