42: From Side Hustle to CEO: How Katie Lane Dei Empowers Writers Through Bibliophage Press
Starting a business can feel like stepping into the unknown, especially in the creative field. For Katie Lane Dei, founder of Bibliophage Press, that leap came with both challenges and fulfillment. Her company provides editorial and productivity services to empower queer and women writers, helping them honor their writing identity and embrace their creativity.
In this episode of the Accidental CEO Podcast, Katie shares her journey, struggles, and the mindset shifts that helped her transition from nannying and education to running her own business. She also dives into the unique ways she supports her clients in overcoming writer’s block and finding their creative voice.
The Journey to Entrepreneurship
Katie’s journey began with a love for community and collaboration. While working in education, she realized that the joy she found in editing and writing was more than a hobby—it was a calling. She started small, offering services to friends and testing the waters with side projects.
“People were already coming to me for help with editing and writing. When I saw the need and realized they were willing to pay for it, I knew this could be something more,” Katie explained.
The transition wasn’t without challenges. Katie faced the uncertainty of leaving stability behind and taking on the various roles of a solopreneur. From managing her social media to handling the business side of things, she learned to lean on her support network and embrace the learning curve.
Empowering Queer and Women Writers
As a queer woman herself, Katie’s mission was clear: to serve the communities she felt most connected to. “Empowering others is where I find my joy,” she said. She tailors her services to help clients navigate societal pressures and tell the stories that resonate most deeply with them.
Katie’s approach is rooted in empathy and understanding. “What is the story that lights your heart on fire?” she asks her clients, encouraging them to pursue their authentic voice rather than conforming to industry norms.
Overcoming Writer’s Block
One of the core challenges Katie addresses with her clients is writer’s block. Her strategy? Viewing life as data. She helps writers understand their energy levels and creative processes to overcome mental hurdles and maintain momentum.
“Every project needs something different from you,” Katie explained. “Understanding your process and recognizing when writer’s block is creeping up can make all the difference.”
Her Effortlessly Productive Writers Program is a 12-week course designed to take writers from stuck to finished drafts by focusing on mindset, productivity, and tailored writing systems.
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Claiming Your Identity as a Creative
Katie emphasizes the importance of embracing your creative identity. “Once I started calling myself a writer, I began making space for it in my life,” she said. Whether you’re a writer, photographer, or designer, owning your title helps you take actionable steps toward success.
Key Lessons from Katie’s Story
Katie’s journey offers valuable takeaways for aspiring entrepreneurs and creatives:
- Start small and take baby steps to transition from a stable job to a creative career.
- Empower your community by understanding their unique needs and challenges.
- Embrace flexibility and data-driven insights to overcome creative blocks and manage energy levels.
- Claim your identity and take pride in your creative work—it’s the foundation for growth.
Katie Lane Dei’s Bibliophage Press is more than a business; it’s a testament to the power of pursuing your passion and empowering others along the way. To learn more about Katie and her services, visit her at Bibliophage Press on social media or BibliophagePress.com.
If you’re ready to dive into your writing journey, don’t miss Katie’s free Find Your Writing Process Webinar to unlock your creative potential.
