Episode 18

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Published on:

27th May 2025

What is a Ghostwriter and When Should You Hire One?

Publishing for Professionals

Episode 18

What is a Ghostwriter and When Should You Hire One?

In this episode, we demystify the world of ghostwriting and explore when it makes sense to bring in professional writing support. A ghostwriter is a professional writer who creates content under your name, capturing your voice, expertise, and unique perspective while remaining invisible to your audience. Unlike traditional content creators who build their own brands, ghostwriters are skilled chameleons who adapt their writing style to match yours perfectly, becoming an extension of your thought leadership rather than replacing it.


The decision to hire a ghostwriter typically stems from a common dilemma: you have valuable insights to share and a personal brand to build, but lack the time or writing expertise to consistently produce high-quality content. This situation is particularly common among busy executives, entrepreneurs, consultants, and subject matter experts who understand the importance of content marketing but struggle to maintain a regular publishing schedule. Other scenarios include preparing for major speaking engagements, launching thought leadership campaigns, or scaling content production across multiple platforms while maintaining consistency.


We dive deep into the key indicators that suggest you're ready for ghostwriting support, including having clear expertise and opinions to share, a defined target audience, and the budget to invest in professional writing services. The episode explores different types of ghostwriting arrangements, from occasional article support to comprehensive content strategies, and discusses how to evaluate whether you have enough material and perspective to sustain ongoing ghostwritten content. We also address common concerns about authenticity and how the best ghostwriting relationships actually help amplify your genuine voice rather than replace it.


Podcast Resources


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Disclaimer: The information in this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only. The content shared by the host, guests, and any affiliates is not intended to substitute for professional legal or financial advice or any professional advice specific to your situation. Always seek the advice of a qualified professional with any questions you may have.


The opinions expressed on the show by the host or guests are those of the individuals and do not necessarily reflect the views of Unicorn Publishing Company. Unicorn Publishing Company, the host, guests, and affiliates are not responsible or liable for any decisions made by listeners or actions taken hereto based on the information discussed in this podcast. By listening to this podcast, you acknowledge and agree to release Unicorn Publishing Company, the host, affiliates, and guests from any liability.

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About the Podcast

Publishing for Professionals
Writing and Self-Publishing for Thought Leaders who are writing a book to self-publish
Are you an executive with methodologies to share, a professional speaker ready to expand your reach, or a thought leader ready to cement your legacy? This isn't just another "how to write" podcast—it's a comprehensive guide to navigating your entire publishing journey.

Each episode delivers actionable advice on everything from finding the right ghostwriter and understanding hybrid publishing to effective time management for busy executives, marketing techniques for thought leaders, and avoiding the vanity press trap while maintaining professional credibility.

Turn your big ideas into a published book without the traditional publishing headaches or costly mistakes that plague first-time authors. Join multi-published author and ghostwriter Lynn "Elikqitie" Smargis of Unicorn Publishing Company as she pulls back the curtain on modern publishing, showing professional speakers, executives, and thought leaders how to transform their expertise into compelling books that build their brand and legacy.

Whether you're struggling with impostor syndrome, overwhelmed by publishing options, or worried about maintaining your professional reputation, Lynn tackles these fears head-on with practical solutions and proven strategies.

Lynn doesn't just share successes—she dives into failures and missteps so you don't have to learn the hard way. No more wondering if your book will ever see the light of day or worrying about damaging your professional reputation with a sub-par publication. "Write, Edit, and Publish" gives you the blueprint for becoming a published author on your own terms, with your credibility intact and enhanced. New episodes drop every week on your favorite podcast player and YouTube!

About your host

Profile picture for Lynn Smargis

Lynn Smargis

Lynn is a ghostwriter, author, writer, podcast producer, artist, all around creative and ideator and is the founder of Unicorn 🦄 Publishing Company.

On a typical day of content creation, she can produce 2,000 to 8,000 words. She started her creative journey at the age of five, creating and performing dance routines at Ms. Ruth’s dance studio in her home town of Philadelphia. She discovered the world of recording audio in middle school creating mixtapes in the 80s and videos in the 90s. As an adult, podcasting is her new creative medium that is second only to writing and publishing.

As a professional, Lynn works closely with leaders, executives, and consultants to elevate their platforms through ghostwriting their non-fiction books. In addition to publishing client books (and her own books) Lynn works on collaborative book projects with podcast industry leaders. She is also the author and co-author of several books, including The Guide To Traveling Gluten Free, Senior Solutions, and How to Repurpose Your Podcast into a Book. In addition to writing books for herself and her clients, Lynn hosts and produces the podcasts Caring for Your Aging Parents, and Travel Gluten Free, which are available on all major podcast players.

Lynn enjoys spending time on her olive farm in McMinnville, Oregon. When she isn't writing or farming, Lynn enjoys gardening, studying astronomy, playing with her two dogs, Minnow and Lily, snuggling her two cats, Hemingway and Jack, traveling, painting, reading tarot, studying Buddhism, and experiencing the outdoors.