About this episode

In this episode, Liz Fiedler Mergen discusses actionable advice on writing and publishing with fellow authors at Podfest 2026.

In this inspiring episode of Rooted Agritourism , host Dr. Liz Fiedler Mergen shares the mic with publishing veterans and fellow authors during the Future Proof Author panel at Podfest 2026 . Whether you're dreaming of writing your first book or looking to scale your author platform, this panel is packed with actionable advice on storytelling, publishing, platform-building, and book marketing for rural entrepreneurs and creative business owners. Liz opens up about her personal journey—from flower farmer and podcast host to memoir author—and how grief, growth, and entrepreneurship collided to shape her book. Joined by experts from Morgan James Publishing and other successful authors, this conversation dives into the real stories and smart strategies that help authors not only publish but thrive. Key Topics Covered: How to decide what book to write (and why it matters for your future) Marketing your book before it’s even finished Why your personal story is your strongest brand asset Self-publishing vs traditional publishing insights Building an engaged audience with pre-orders and waitlists Social media and email strategy tips for first-time authors Creating a sustainable content…

People in this episode

Host: Liz Fiedler Mergen

Topics covered

• writing
• publishing
• storytelling
• book marketing
• entrepreneurship
• personal branding

Keywords

• book writing
• self-publishing
• traditional publishing
• author platform
• marketing strategies
• content promotion
• rural entrepreneurship

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: Morgan James Publishing

Books & works: Flowers Bloom Anyway

More episodes of Rooted Agritourism

• Heated High Tunnel Lessons: What I Learned My First Year Growing Flowers in Zone 4B · June 1, 2026 · 13 min
• How I Run Multiple Businesses With Zero Employees and Still Grow · May 22, 2026 · 24 min
• What Is Value-Added Agriculture? How Farmers Create More Income Without More Land · May 13, 2026 · 8 min
• How Liz Fiedler Mergen Built a Value-Added Farm Business from Grief and Grit · April 15, 2026 · 5 min
• Crop Planning for a Flower Farm that Actually Works · January 27, 2026 · 14 min
• Flowers Bloom Anyway: Building Better Relationships in Life with Mark Hicks · January 19, 2026 · 12 min

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