new episode: Episode 32: How a Viral Comedy Character Sold Out Her Debut Novel (Without Bookstore Gatekeepers).

New episode! I sat down with Jelena Curic for Episode 32: How a Viral Comedy Character Sold Out Her Debut Novel (Without Bookstore Gatekeepers).

Jelena is a lifelong performer and singer who started making reels to promote her debut novel, Sing to Me, and ended up creating Teta Jela — everyone's favourite Balkan aunt. Her social media has gone viral as she explores Teta Jela's takes on life, and my favourite sketches are the contrast between Teta Jela's parenting style and Summer Breeze's mum.

In this episode, we unpack Jelena's multifaceted artistic journey as a writer, comedian, singer, and cultural representative — from creating Teta Jela to the challenges of cultural representation in writing, the realities of the publishing industry, and what it takes to protect your creative freedom.

We also get into midlife challenges, coping with anxiety and vulnerability, embracing confidence and authenticity, the risks of content creation, navigating online identities, and the emotional impact of menopause on relationships and storytelling.

🎥 Watch on YouTube or Substack
🎧 Listen on your favourite audio platform

🔗 https://www.amrapajalic.com/podcast.html