In this episode of the Books & Such Literary Podcast, host Jen Babakhan sits down with agency founder and publishing veteran Janet Grant to talk about where publishing is headed in 2026. With decades of experience as an editor, agent, and industry innovator, Janet shares insights on emerging trends, shifting market realities, and the opportunities authors should be paying attention to now.

From the rise of Bible-centered publishing and creative genre mashups to bookstore growth, AI concerns, and career strategy, this conversation offers wisdom and clarity for both aspiring and established authors navigating a rapidly changing publishing landscape.

Whether you're an aspiring writer, a multi-book author, or simply curious about the future of publishing, this episode offers thoughtful perspective, practical wisdom, and a hopeful vision for what's ahead.

Books & Such Writing Intensive | February 10-12, 2026 - click here for more information.

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New episodes release the first Wednesday of each month. Find our full archive at booksandsuch.com/podcast under the Resources tab.

In this episode of the Books & Such podcast, our agents dive into a question almost every writer wrestles with: What should I actually spend money on as an author?

Should you hire an editor? When should you get help with your social media? What does your website truly need—and what's a waste of money? And is attending a writers conference a valuable investment or a drain on your time and resources? We're giving you the inside scoop on all of it.

Whether you're unpublished, contracting your next book, or maintaining a multi-book career, this episode will help you make wise, strategic, and sustainable decisions as you steward both your calling and your resources.

In This Episode:

• When hiring social media help makes sense (and why buying followers never does)
  
  

• When to invest in a freelance editor (and when to might harm your career)
  
  

• What every author needs on their website (and why simple beats flashy)
  
  

• How to know if a writers conference is worth your money this year

Mentioned in This Episode

• Books & Such Literary Management: booksandsuch.com
  
  

• Follow us on Instagram: @booksandsuch
  
  

• Listen on: Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Audible | iHeartRadio
  
  

New episodes release the first Wednesday of each month.
Find our full archive at booksandsuch.com/podcast under the Resources tab.

• Why venting about editors, authors, or agents can hurt your reputation

• How to respond to publishing frustrations with maturity and grace

• What editors and publishers look for on your social media

• Why quoting others without permission can cause serious problems

• How to protect your credibility and future writing relationships

• Books & Such Literary Management: booksandsuch.com

• Follow us on Instagram: @booksandsuch

• Listen on: Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Audible | iHeartRadio

New episodes release the first Wednesday of each month.
Find our full archive at booksandsuch.com/podcast under the Resources tab.