In this episode, we’re raising a glass (literally) to indie author success with bestselling author Jourdana Webber, whose debut novel Unconventionally, Elle has taken the indie publishing world by storm.

Jourdana joins us to talk about her journey from corporate life to writing swoony, heartfelt contemporary romance, and how she built her author career by learning the business side of publishing. From producing her own audiobook to cold-emailing bookstores and building industry relationships, Jourdana shares the strategies that helped her break through as an independent author.

We also celebrate a massive milestone: Unconventionally, Elle appearing in Times Square, proving that indie authors absolutely belong on the biggest stages in publishing.

To celebrate the moment, Jourdana is releasing a limited Times Square special edition with sprayed edges, available now in an extremely limited run.

👉 Order the Times Square Special Edition:
https://jourdanawebber.com/products/times-square-special-edition-sprayed-edges-unconventionally-elle

If you’re an aspiring author—or just love behind-the-scenes conversations about the publishing world—this episode is packed with honest advice, hilarious moments, and plenty of margarita-fueled encouragement.

In This Episode

• How Jourdana went from corporate burnout to bestselling author
• The truth about indie vs traditional publishing
• Why audiobooks can be a game changer for indie authors
• How asking the right questions (and sending cold emails) can open doors
• What it actually takes to market your book outside of social media
• Why building your own publishing company and retaining rights matters
• The mindset shift that helps authors keep going after rejection
• Celebrating Jourdana’s Times Square feature for Unconventionally, Elle

About Jourdana Webber

Jourdana Webber is the bestselling author of Unconventionally, Elle, a heartfelt contemporary romance about ambition, love, and redefining success. Her stories blend humor, vulnerability, and the messy magic of real relationships while celebrating women’s voices, resilience, and found family. 

She lives in New Orleans with her husband and four dogs and is known for crafting emotionally resonant romances that remind readers happily-ever-afters still exist—even when life doesn’t go as planned. 

About the Book

Unconventionally, Elle

Elle Watson climbed the corporate ladder and achieved everything she thought she wanted—until burnout and betrayal force her to rethink everything. As she leaves the corporate world behind to pursue her dream of becoming a writer, Elle finds herself caught between a new love and the past she thought she left behind. 

Perfect for fans of Emily Henry, Carley Fortune, Abby Jimenez, and Sophie Kinsella, the novel blends romance, humor, and emotional depth with themes of ambition, love, and building an unconventional life. 

Follow Jourdana

Instagram: @authorjourdanawebber
Website: https://jourdanawebber.com

Follow Margs & Manuscripts

Instagram: @margsandmanuscripts

Listen If You Love

• Emily Henry
• Abby Jimenez
• Carley Fortune
• Sophie Kinsella
• Contemporary romance with humor, heart, and real-life chaos 

If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to follow, rate, and share the podcast with a fellow writer or book lover.