I just heard you mention this podcast on a previous episode of Scriptnotes and I haven’t read the books yet but this series is just so sweet and fun and interesting. I binged it all in one day!

John August is once again fantastic. Great podcast!

We found the free audiobook on a pre-COVID drive back from a cabin in CO. The whole family was immediately drawn in. We loved it so much that we wanted to learn more about its creation.

Well I’ll give you one star for a creative title. Frustrating for me, but creative and smart. Frustrating for me because when I tell Siri I to launch podcast it starts playing this .... which I don’t want. Good luck. Maybe one day I’ll listen

I binged the whole thing in one day! I was entertained by the humor, educated on the ways of getting published and all the steps from the idea in your mind to holding the physical book in your hands. Very well done and thorough. Also creative with all of the side trips to interview bookstore owners and what they do to help you keep your books selling. I especially enjoyed the printing and bindery portion as I’ve been working in small print shops and watched paper being made etc documentaries and newspapers are printed similarly. I’m more graphic designer (not artist or college training, I helped get through the first moving from physical art to digital, but I digress), it was actually really exciting to hear that portion as I could see exactly what you were describing. If anything about writing a book interests you then you will enjoy this one!

John, The journey you took me on through Launch gave me the sparkly electric feeling. I just finished the podcast today and bought the book. I just can’t wait to meet Arlo Finch. Thank you for sharing the process you went through writing your first book. I absolutely love the piano tune during your last monologue (also played throughout the podcast). Not sure why but it strikes me somewhere special. It wildly reminds me of my father I lost 12 years ago! Again thanks for the journey! Heath

This is a really interesting behind the scenes exploration of the process of getting a book published.

There’s some good info here, some just generally interesting stuff. But generally I find this show annoying. They mention that a lot of people would like to publish a book. But the majority of them don’t have the advantages this guy has. They’re not successful screen writers who just have to ask and they get an agent dropped in their lap. Also, after the end of the first episode of he had said “I’m still that boy in the woods” one more time I would have stopped listening entirely. But as he talks about his search for the perfect font and even commissioning his own font, it just feels like a guy oblivious to his own privilege and under the false impression that people are interested in hearing about it. And all this for a book that is basically the exact same plot as Lumberjanes.

I really enjoyed this series. Interesting, well written, and wonderfully narrated. 5 stars to John August!

John August knows how to write, he knows how to podcast. He also knows how to make me cry describing the first time he held his book in his hand. Love it!

Listened to episode 1 and was not hooked. Was a bit thrown off from the beginning with the ad in the second minute. This guy seems more interested in the commercial viability of his writing rather than any love for the craft. Also nothing compelling about his time in the woods, not sure why his references to that memory is expected to stir any emotion from his audience. I would love to hear the trials and tribulations of a brand new author trying to break onto the scene, than a successful screenwriter with a strong portfolio moving into a tangential medium. That would make a great podcast!

Great podcast.

This podcast is sometimes genuinely useful to writers, but mostly just feels like a pre-release marketing push for a book that the author hopes will be a huge success. It’s fairly self-indulgent and self-aggrandizing. Most of the people who reviewed it seem to have left reviews based on the preview.

As a screenwriter who recently starting writing middle-grade, this podcast is a godsend. Answers so many questions I had, even the little things I thought no one else cared about.

I lost myself in Launch. Love all the interviews with other authors. Publishing seems so huge, but Launch makes it tangible and comprehensible. Its like Jonah talking you into the belly of the whale.

As a published author and occasional writing teacher, I frequently get questions from students and friends about the logistics of publishing. Will I need an agent? How do I find one? Can I get a contract without a full manuscript? Though these questions are super important, because they have little to do with the creative process of writing, the answers can sometimes feel a little boring: "Well, there's this website called Publishers Marketplace and what you do is...."Having said that, August manages to provide all of the answers I've ever heard about publishing and then some, and--importantly--to create a story that's really fun to listen to. Next time I get a question about publishing, I'll certainly be mentioning launch!

I will not listen to any Wondery podcasts as long as they are associated with Mike Boudet.

As an aspiring author; this gave me a window into the publishing world and got me back into writing after a long haitus from crafting a story.

But I am going to have to unsubscribe from all Wondery podcasts until something is done about the host of Sword & Scale.

I feel like John created this podcast just for me. If you’re writing a book (or a series), you owe it to yourself to listen to this well-crafted journey on how John birthed his YA series “Arlo Finch” into existence.

I really wanted to love and get a ton out of this podcast, not because I am a fan of August, but because I am an author trying to make it in the publishing world. Unfortunately I find this podcast only OK. August says it more than one that he realizes his story isn't typical and it isn't. It is FAR from the typical author story. He has connections already, he "knows people" in industry's that are helpful to an author. So no, his story is not typical. Especially when he talks about the potential bidding war for the film rights of his not even completed book. Do I sound bitter? Maybe I am, it's extremely hard to get an agents attention in the book world to get published, so many of us self-publish and slog our way through. I'd love to hear a podcast dedicated to people like me - self-published, local authors who need help finding their way to agents and publishing houses. That would be awesome. This is not that. Though this is a well-done podcast that occasionally verges on tedium with the font discussion and other obsessive moments, but August has a good story and is fun to listen to. Worth your time for sure, but not helpful if you are an aspiring writer.

I’ve listen to all of the episodes and loved them all! What a sweet story. I just received an ARC copy of the book and am excited to start it. Haven’t been able to yet but listening to the podcast will enhance the experience.

I heard this show advertised on The Good Life Project podcast and it sounded interesting. I love how John August takes us on a tour of not only his creative process, but the entire book lifecycle, showing a glimpse of so many pieces of the journey that we might never think about. As a wanna-be author with a complete lack of formal training, it’s helpful that he’s very straightforward about how his experience is not typical for most first time authors and how his screenwriting credentials may help influence other’s tendency to pay attention when they might not otherwise. The singular “failing” of this podcast: I want more!! I love the podcast so much, I bought the book under the guise of giving it to my 13 year old son, but mostly because I feel like I’m now invested in John’s incubation of Arlo. Give this a listen!

Thanks John, whom I have just discovered in this excellent podcast! I love learning. About everything, and teaching. So the approach of the Launch podcast is perfect for me. I am also hooked up for reading Arlos Finch :) For dreamers, who still want to stay real! I just finished episode 4. So far it is kind, truthful, funny and insightful. Thanks a lot !

This podcast is much more scripted than what I usually prefer. I listen to I Was There Too and James Bonding and Star Trek TNC and those seem anything but scripted! But listening to the story of how a book comes to book stores is fascinating and I was moved to tears as if I had written Arlo Finch myself. I love my Kindle so much but for this book, well... I haven’t read it yet, but when I do... it’ll be in print.

I'm a sucker for process stories, so the episode at the book factory is an all-timer for me

so interesting!! Cannot wait to see where the book and podcast go from here!

John August is a good guy. You can tell. So getting to follow him around and watch the process of creating a new book unfold was a lot of fun and very inspiring. It’s very well produced.

I loved this is so many ways...as a writer, as a reader, as someone who loves booksheleves filled with books, and as someone who loves to know how art gets made. This is a beautiful podcast and I hope there are more seasons with more cool stuff being launched.

This podcast ranks in my top 5, and for a few great reasons: John is the most emotionally involved host of a Podcast that I have ever listened to. Also, living in Fort Collins, CO, just 45 min from where John August grew up, and getting to spend each day exploring the Front Range of Colorado, his story and the book give this weird personal connection to the whole process!! It has also motivated me to start writing, again. I also really appreciated John’s upfront opinions on how the advertising and sponsorship of the podcast, works. Transparency is one of the most important attributes of a brand/company etc... that I look and hope for in something that I want to support or follow. Thanks, John, for a wonderfully enlightening podcast; one that helped me remember the curiosity and wonder of my childhood. The book is pretty awesome, too 😉

I liked it when it was about the process of writing and publishing a book but then the announcement came that it would be about the launching of all sorts of other things. I came to the podcast because I dream of publishing a book, not launching another idea. If I want to launch another idea I could listen to plenty of other business oriented podcasts (one of which John lists as an inspiration). I didn’t want another StartUp, I wanted a podcast about getting a book published and being an author.

Love this podcast, John. Kudos to you and your production team on this one. Thanks for putting this out there. You're making me want to be a writer, although I know this podcast makes it sound deceptively easy. Regardless, thanks for shining a light on some of the less-considered aspects of the process.

Seeked out Scriptnotes for the Craig, stayed for the John & Launch (and Craig). Launch is the companion I am always happy to have arrive unannounced at my door. The behind-the-scenes access that John gives us into the book writing and publishing process is so interesting and appreciated. I love everything from the disclosure that a blustery winter score was vital to the writing mindspace in the heat of Paris to that first phone call with the lucky girl who got 1 of 5 stickers in her book. I feel very fortunate to have been able to witness your journey. Thank you.

Who hasn't dreamt of writing a book? This behind-the-scenes of publishing your first novel feels more like a good coffee date with an old friend. It's personal and sweet. I was just as excited as John August when he saw the first copy of Arlo Finch on the printing press. The inner design nerd in me was fascinated to learn abut the nitty gritty publishing details like paper choices and font options. The Q & A episode helped answer, "So if I'm not a well known writer like John August, how do I get a book published?" I want to learn more. How can you end something called Launch? It's just the beginning!

I thoroughly enjoyed Launch. As a yet unpublished middle grade author, it was fascinating to hear the inside scoop of the process from start to finish. While most writing podcasts focus on craft (which I enjoy), Launch gets into the nitty gritty of the actual ins and outs of becoming a first time author. John August is a wonderful host. He's very down to earth and self aware enough to understand that his experience (signing with the #1 agent in kids lit with just a few chapters) is not the norm.

At times, Launch has offered an open and in-depth look at a first time author's journey to getting published. I appreciated hearing the origins of Arlo Finch, John's writing process, and the episode focusing on the audiobook was truly fascinating. Here's the big caveat (and one that August acknowledges): this is not a normal first-time author. This is a highly accomplished screenwriter whose path to getting published is accelerated by a factor of 1,000. Granted, if John doesn't score an agent and a book deal this podcast never happens, but there are little to no conflicts that seem to hinder this quest. He painstakingly waits for DAYS to hear back from agents (after only submitting six chapters). The notes? Not too invasive. The reviews? Stellar. When he asks children for feedback? They think it's the best book they've ever read. When he's worried that his protagonist is too similar to Hermione? Nope. Not at all. She's unique. Phew! John remains very humble, but the show comes off as unintentionally self-congratulatory. Also, the podcast tends to get very self-referential (e.g. spending ten minutes explaining that John was concerned and nervous about recording advertising reads, and then hearing said ads later on).

Admittedly when I listened to the first episode I thought, nice humble brag. The thing is, this guy is really smart, and really good at what he does. Very entertaining, very creative, he has a gift that I certainly wish I had. (maybe why I was put off on the initial episode...ohh no too self aware can't be that). Seriously worth the listen. Very well done story, and insightful in an industry that for a reader like myself is a bit mysterious. Pulled back the curtain as it were. My wife is now listening to the podcast and ordered the book to screen for her 6th graders. I could go on all night!!

I’ve been listening to Scriptnotes for years, so when John announced Launch, I was obviously going to subscribe. However, this is a whole other side of him as a novelist, so it’s very different — in a great way! All aspiring writers should listen to this podcast. This is very polished and professionally done. I love the interviews, especially the ones with children. He asks such great questions. Following his journey as a new published author is a delight. I’m sad that this is a miniseries because I would love this to continue for so much longer.

A fantastic podcast for writers, as John August walks listeners through the steps of creating his first middle grade book.

I enjoy programs that explore the creative process. John August starts documenting the creative process of writing a novel then goes beyond. The podcast takes us on a tour of the physical creation of book, from editing, copy editing, art choices, font selection to placing the book on the store shelves, publicity tours and the final judgement of sales figures. Great interviews all along the way. A really great podcast that is certainly informative but funny and suprisingly emotional too. (And his book is great too!)

Such a well produced, genuinely transparent, and inspiring recounting of a two year book writing journey. John shares his story in an honest way that makes you feel like you could do the same, eventhough his screenwriting connections and pedigree certainly helped pave his way. He still had to write and finish a book that caught so many eyes, so that's definitely to his credit. I'll be reading about Arlo Finch shortly as the book is on it's way to my home. I hope I get a gold sticker!!!

super charismatic and informative.

I’m so happy to be on this fascinating, firsthand journey of an author writing and publishing his first book...which came out today! I especially loved the deep dive into the printing process because…who knew? I can’t wait for Amazon to deliver my copy and to be along for the rest of the ride.

Launch is a must for anyone who writes or aspires to publish. John August and the whole Launch production team provide listeners with an incredibly polished, realistic, and even humorous look into every facet of publishing, from first draft page length to landing an agent to the publishers’ editorial process. Simply, the best. Greg

An entertaining podcast as long as you keep in mind that this is how an extremely privileged white male writes and sells his first book.

As a longtime listener of Scriptnotes and fan of John August’s work, it’s been thrilling to follow his journey as he enters the new world of writing novels - and professional podcasts! Launch is fascinating for any working or aspiring writer, and also a much more personal insight into John’s creative process. Highly recommended.

Oh man. I hope my creative writing students don’t listen to this! Getting an agent is nearly impossible for novices and writers who don’t already have a name. (Dude, of COURSE it mattered to the agent and editor that you’re a known screenwriter! Your excellent track record got you in the door. And that’s fine—just don’t pretend otherwise. It’s kind of insulting, and may give naive aspiring authors false hope.) It’s an interesting enough podcast (though the delivery is a little flat) if you don’t know anything about the publishing world. But 1.5 episodes was enough for me.

Like John’s other podcast and screenwriting tools; this well designed story of how a book is made has the fit and finish of a handcrafted watch that you would hand down to your kids someday; or, recommend to other writers.

It seems there’s not much that John August can’t do. I’ve enjoyed the films that he’s scripted. I gleaned a lot of valuable info from his Scriptnotes podcast with Craig Maxim and now I’m getting even more from Launch and looking very much forward to reading about the adventures of young Mister Finch. If I had half his talent...

As an unknown author currently on submission, I just couldn’t handle the podcaster fretting and complaining about spending “days” waiting to hear if a publisher would make an offer. On 6 chapters! And don’t get me started on how he got an agent. If you know nothing about publishing and you’re just curious, this would probably be a great podcast. But if you’re a struggling author yourself, this will probably be as demoralizing as it was for me. There are many other podcasts that get into the nuts and bolts of publishing, so just skip this one.