Tools & Tech
In addition to my affiliate products, below are other tools and tech I use as part of my writing craft and publishing voyage (including podcasting):
For In-Person Author Events
Wheeled cart for author events - I use two cardboard fruit boxes stacked in the bottom box to hold books--the perfect number for an in-person book sales event--and the top box to hold all the miscellaneous items it's useful to have--business cards, tablecloth, swag, name badges, etc., etc. Plus, it's waterproof, so you're set even for rainy-day events!
Acrylic bookstands - I like these better than the foldable, rubber-covered wire stands because they are more stable and stack better for storage. That said, I'd love ones that stack more compactly--if you know of any, let me know!
Equipping Your Author Space
Here are some piece of equipment that have made my author life better. (Links to Amazon are affiliate links, but these product are likely available elsewhere as well.) Also not that my computer equipment is Mac-centric, so you may need to look for the PC equivalent if that's what you're using.
MacBook Air - I'm a big fan of Apple hardware, and have used a MacBook Air for years. In early 2021, I got one with the M1 chip which is much faster that my old Air, and features a fanless design, which is perfect for podcast and audiobook recording. (With my old Air, I had to take all kinds of awkward measures to enable me to have my laptop in a separate room because of the incredible amount of noise the fan made.)
Docking station - I use a docking station to attach a larger monitor, webcam, split design keyboard, and ergonomic mouse to my MacBook Air. (You'll want to look for the PC equivalent if that's what you're using.)
Monitor - Much of the computer work I do--such as working with large spreadsheets or editing podcast audio and video--are easier to do with a larger monitor than I have on my MacBook Air, so I got this monitor, which I love.
Split design keyboard - This keyboard has saved my wrists because it enables me to have my hands in alignment with my arms when typing. Available in Mac (add the wrist rest and lifter option) and PC configurations.
Webcam - Because my auxiliary monitor didn't have a webcam, I got this one. I wouldn't recommend it. Although the video is fine, I have yet to be able to figure out how to use the microphone, and I now see reviewers have complained about the mic as well. The attachment mechanism is also a bit awkward. Providing a link only so you know which webcam to avoid. <: )
Under desk treadmill - I use this under an adjustable-height desk in my office (where I record The Indy Author Podcast). I can get some exercise while watching educational videos or movies!
Compact elliptical exercise machine - I have this in the den, where I do most of my writing. It's very sturdy, the motion is smooth, and it takes up very little space! If I'm pondering what will happen next in a story, I can hop on this for a few minutes.
Rolling storage racks - These racks are great for storing your authors supplies, including books (they're very heavy-duty)--the wheels means you can scoot them out of the way when not needed. Each shelf accommodates two copier-paper-box-sized boxes.
If you hate typing on your phone, check out the Samsers foldable Bluetooth keyboard with touchpad!
The Popl Digital Smart NFC Networking Business Card for iPhone & Android - tap-to-share device is a great way to share your contact information via your phone, and the recipient does NOT need Popl to receive your information! It's much easier (and cheaper) to keep your information current with Popl than with physical business cards.
Matty's RedBubble Merch
The Indy Author - Sea blue logo
The Indy Author - Sky blue logo
the Indy Author - Sand logo
Books
THE RELAXED AUTHOR: TAKE THE PRESSURE OFF YOUR ART AND ENJOY THE CREATIVE JOURNEY by Joanna Penn and Mark Leslie Lefebvre (discussed in Episode 100 - Becoming the Relaxed Author with Mark Leslie Lefebvre)
INTUITIVE EDITING: A CREATIVE AND PRACTICAL GUIDE TO REVISING YOUR WRITING by Tiffany Yates Martin