The Confident Fiction Author
Hey there my fellow author, I’m Sarah Elisabeth Sawyer, an old soul kind of writer living my dream as a full-time author and authorprenuer.
But I didn’t start out living a confident creative lifestyle. I struggled with the fears and the mental and emotional barriers that so often plague writers at all stages of their author career.
But the truth is that, with the right knowledge, tools, and training, you can overcome those barriers. I’m here to teach you how I’ve developed a lifestyle that’s allowed me to publish 19 books (and counting).
Each week as you tune into the Confident Fiction Author podcast, you’ll get clarity on the steps you need to take to advance your writing career. Whether it’s developing your ideal writing routine, tackling new skills like dictating your fiction, or overcoming the obstacles life throws your way, this podcast will help you live a more confident, creative lifestyle.
Free resources for you:
The Confident Fiction Author Toolkit: https://www.fictioncourses.com/toolkit
Dictation + Scrivener Power Combo: https://www.fictioncourses.com/dictation
Dictation for Authors: Tools and Tips of the Trade: https://www.fictioncourses.com/dictation
5 Stereotypes to Avoid When Writing about Native Americans: https://www.fictioncourses.com/stereotypes
The Confident Fiction Author
#45: Exploring Another Culture — Research Tips to Get Started and to Avoid Pitfalls
As fiction authors, we’re natural explorers—we chase stories into new eras, new worlds, and yes, new cultures. But when you’re researching a culture that isn’t your own, it can feel like you’re holding a map written in a foreign language.
In this week’s episode of The Confident Fiction Author podcast, I share practical, no-drama tips for researching another culture with accuracy, respect, and confidence—so you can build story worlds readers trust (and love).
Here’s what you’ll learn:
- Why accuracy builds trust (even in fantasy) and how it strengthens your confidence as an author
- Where to start: books, primary sources, oral histories, and works by members of the culture
- How to go “beneath the glass” at museums, archives, and cultural centers (and build real relationships)
- Bias checks & cross-checks: balancing sources inside and outside the culture
Want to go deeper specifically with Native American characters? My course Fiction Writing American Indians walks you step-by-step through authentic research and portrayal—without stereotypes or misrepresentation.
You don’t have to research alone—or feel lost. With the right approach, research will energize your writing and spark your best plot twists.
***
Free resources for you:
The Confident Fiction Author Toolkit: fictioncourses.com/toolkit
Dictation + Scrivener Power Combo Mini Course: fictioncourses.com/dictation
Dictation for Authors: Tools and Tips of the Trade: fictioncourses.com/dictationguide
5 Stereotypes to Avoid When Writing about Native Americans: fictioncourses.com/stereotypes
