Jessica Powers

On this episode of Words on a Wire, host Daniel Chacón speaks with Jessica Powers—publisher at Catalyst Press, author, and editor—about the hard truths and hopeful possibilities of a writing life. Jessica, who also writes under the name J.L. Powers, reflects on why so few books sell beyond a hundred copies, what creative writing students need to thrive, and how authors must learn to think like entrepreneurs as much as artists. She also discusses the evolution of publishing models, including hybrid approaches, and shares why she remains committed to championing human-driven stories at Catalyst Press. Together, Daniel and Jessica explore the shifting landscape of literature, creativity, and business in an era of AI, self-publishing, and new definitions of success for writers.