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The art of writing is much more than crafting sentences or perfecting grammar. It’s a bridge connecting your inner world to the outside, bearing stories untold and messages unsaid. In this episode of the Authors Who Lead, I share a heartfelt reflection on how writing is intertwined with living fully, urging aspiring authors to delve deeper than the superficial act of writing to uncover a more profound personal revelation.

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00:00 Living Fully Through Writing
04:59 Writing What Truly Matters
06:31 Write for Yourself First
11:56 Embrace Vulnerability to Shape Your Story
14:45 Books Should Transform and Inspire
16:57 Live Boldly, Inspired by Nature
20:11 Join the Author’s Journey

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In this episode of Authors Who Lead, I converse with Dennis James Sweeney, author of "How to Submit: Getting Your Writing Published with Literary Magazines and Small Presses" and recipient of the Autumn House Rising Writer prize. Our discussion offers valuable insights into a writer's journey, the perseverance needed in the face of rejection, and the power of authenticity in one's writing.

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00:00 Finding My Way Back to Writing
04:37 First Big Publishing Win
08:37 Finding My Groove in Academic Circles
10:15 Surprising Career Turns After MFA
14:07 Students Finding Their Voice
18:44 Submit to Places You Enjoy
20:48 Writers' Worries vs. Rules
23:07 Teaching Without Textbooks or Tests
25:54 Writing and Community Vibes

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Starting a piece of writing can always be intimidating. Whether you've written a book before or are venturing into writing for the first time, the blank page can seem overwhelming. In this episode of Authors Who Lead, I delve into the various aspects of writing challenges and how they can serve as a catalyst to kickstart your writing journey.

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00:00 Unlock Writing Potential with Challenges
04:28 Mindset: Key to Overcoming Writer's Doubts
09:31 Overcome Fear: Write and Publish
12:44 Overcoming Self-Doubt in Writing
14:24 Join Our Writing Challenge

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In this episode of Authors Who Lead, Denise Cecilia Frost and I delve into the grueling yet rewarding process of writing a novel. The takeaway is clear: the first draft is not about perfection but capturing a great story's essence. Drawing inspiration from Kurt Vonnegut, Denise emphasizes that every character must have a desire or goal to propel the narrative forward. It’s a stage where messiness is not just tolerated but encouraged. Resonating from my experience as a co-writer, I added that revisiting drafts can later refine these raw beginnings into something coherent and compelling.

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00:00 Interviewing DC Frost, debuting novel with the detective.
03:33 Mysteries capture local essence and offer immersive experiences.
07:46 Books create intriguing, atmospheric worlds and loneliness.
11:39 Commit, stay excited, and seek trusted feedback.
15:44 Storytelling involves relationship-building and deep listening.
19:21 Struggling with vulnerability in character choices.
22:12 First drafts reveal key story elements.
25:34 Write, and rewrite frequently; the husband's critique improves specificity.
27:58 Female strength, vulnerability, and personal empowerment explored.
30:22 Book explores cultural differences, education, and groupthink issues.
33:58 Writing fiction allows the sharing of diverse, untold stories.
37:20 Stories are vital; writers can revise freely.

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Every author faces challenges when writing a book—whether it's finding the right idea, battling imposter syndrome, or simply staring at a blank screen. You are not alone in this.

In this episode of Authors Who Lead, I emphasize that writing isn't a solitary endeavor but a community activity. Let’s dive into the key topics discussed in the podcast episode, exploring how a structured approach, inspired by Japanese Kaizen philosophy, can help you kickstart your writing journey through a 5-day challenge.

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00:00 Jumpstart Writing with Kaizen Challenges
04:44 Balancing Emotion and Logic in Writing
09:02 Overcoming Writing Resistance
12:39 Encouragement Through Community Publishing
14:53 Five-Day Writing Challenge Overview
16:45 Join the Authors' Challenge

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In this episode of Authors Who Lead, I sit down with Shelby Leigh, a best-selling author and mental health advocate, to discuss the nuances of mastering organic reach in book marketing, the daily writing habit, and the importance of viewing oneself as a brand. With over 500,000 readers and a successful transition from self-publishing to traditional publishing, Shelby Leigh’s journey is filled with valuable lessons for aspiring and established authors alike.

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00:00 College poetry helped ease my anxiety struggles.
06:05 Books explore mental health, societal pressure, and anxiety.
09:12 How did you overcome book marketing shyness?
11:38 Treat books as a business; highlight personal connections.
15:15 Separate personal and professional social media accounts.
19:16 Success requires time, strategy, and valuable content.
21:24 Focus on organic growth; address messaging issues.
24:28 Creating a poetry book reveals a self-love journey.
28:36 Beginner programs and Creative Content Club offerings.
31:45 Evolving commerce through TikTok and authentic content.
35:58 Teaching finance involves understanding consistent consumer psychology.
38:43 Research audience interests; use storytelling for engagement.
41:48 Confidence is key; comparison hinders creativity.

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In this episode of the Authors Who Lead podcast, I sit down with Kristen Van Nest. Kristen, a talented comedian, author, and business owner, sheds light on her unique writing process, the cultural nuances of living abroad, and her transition from a corporate career to creative pursuits. This episode dives deep into the intricacies of creativity, the challenges of expatriate life, and the transformative power of travel.

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00:00 Kristen Van Nest: World-traveling comedian, writer, business owner.
06:07 Travel broadens perspectives and challenges personal happiness.
07:10 Designed life for happiness through travel independence.
11:10 Charna Halpern taught improv in Shanghai, transformative.
14:38 Self-discovery through questioning values and experiences.
19:05 Learning cultural roots of East Asian countries.
21:51 Learning the language offers unique cultural insight.
25:45 Portuguese pronunciation impresses locals and enhances the experience.
29:50 Writing involves phases: Reflection, research, ritual, and closure.
30:57 Write 500 words daily; create a book.
34:54 Stop editing while writing; just write.
37:40 Subscribe for weekly episodes and show updates.

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If you’re an author wondering whether attending a book fair is a good idea, you’re in the right place. In this episode, I dive into the unique opportunities book fairs offer to showcase your work, engage with readers, network with industry professionals, and more. Whether you’re a new author or an experienced one, participating in a book fair can provide invaluable experiences and help elevate your writing career.

Timestamp:

00:00 Consider book fairs for promotion and speaking opportunities.
03:53 Start an email list using ConvertKit today.
06:48 Miami Book Fair: Renowned, extensive, diverse literary event.
13:16 Engage locals, encourage attendance, and connect with attendees.
15:49 Book sales allowed; additional costs apply. Varies.
18:04 Leverage book sales for long-term marketing growth.

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COMMUNITY PROGRAMS
📚 Write and Publish your book

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