Landing the agent isn’t the end of your journey—for many, it’s the beginning. Elizabeth Sumner Waffler joins today to enlighten us with her experience, nailing a hopeful agent match and then managing a contrasting struggle with market trends. Learn how she pressed forward with captivating prose, succeeding through hybrid publishing and now scheduled to launch a fifth publication!ResourcesWebsite: elizabethsumnerwafler.comInstagram: elizabeth_sumner_waflerFour Eyes Editorial: https://elizabethsumnerwafler.com/editorial-services/Save the Cat! BooksRomancing the Beat by Gwen HayesErica Bauermeister, AuthorAbout ElizabethThe author of four novels--and another on the way--Elizabeth writes evocative women’s fiction and romance fiction. She is an active member of the Women's Fiction Writers Association where she formerly served as Director of Craft Education. She enjoys working with other writers through her editorial side hustle Four Eyes Editorial.Elizabeth resides with her husband in South Carolina. She can be found reading, working at her blue desk, at a farmers market, poking through a bookstore, or enjoying a pretty cocktail on her back porch.NEW MERCH SHOP! Be a PROUD Word Wizard.https://www.etsy.com/shop/LlamaDoodle/

Aneesa Marufu joins host Sheridan Sharp to talk about her fresh-off-the-press book and her experience as an internationally-published author. Hear the unique story of how she found her agent, why she writes for young adults, and what she does to handle the pressure of deadlines on this episode of Am I Write.   Resourceshttps://aneesamarufu.com/https://www.instagram.com/aneesa.marufu/?hl=en-gbAnnesa's new release, An Emerald Sky: https://amzn.eu/d/01828Nf About AneesaAneesa Marufu lives in Manchester and was the winner of the Kimberley Chambers Kickstart Prize for underrepresented writers in 2019. Her debut novel, The Balloon Thief, is inspired by her South Asian heritage and her obsession with hot air balloons, though she is yet to fly in one!An Emerald Sky, the stunning sequel to The Balloon Thief  will hit shelves on November 9th 2023!NEW MERCH SHOP! Be a PROUD Word Wizard.https://www.etsy.com/shop/LlamaDoodle/

Debut author of a Jane Austen meets To All The Boys I've Loved Before tale, Priyanka Taslim joins us on Am I Write to talk about beloved retellings, keeping them fresh, and how she conquered those dark nights of doubt. Get some great resources and look forward to her upcoming projects!Resourcespriyankataslim.comhttps://linktr.ee/priyankataslimhttps://twitter.com/bhootbabehttps://www.instagram.com/bhootbabeAbout PriyankaPriyanka Taslim is a writer, educator, and lifelong New Jersey resident. Having grown up in a bustling Bangladeshi diaspora community, surrounded by her mother’s entire clan and many aunties of no relation, her writing often features families, communities, and all the drama therein.Priyanka tells all kinds of stories about Bangladeshi characters. Her writing usually stars spunky Bengali heroines finding their place in the world...and a little swoony romance, too. THE LOVE MATCH, out now from Salaam Reads, an imprint of Simon & Schuster, is her debut YA novel and has been praised in mediums such as Teen Vogue, USA Today, Pop Culturalist and more. It was a Junior Library Guild gold standard selection and one of Amazon’s best young adult novels of January 2023. Her adult debut, FROM MUMBAI, WITH LOVE, will be published by St. Martin’s Griffin in 2025, and she has future novels in the works with both publishers.NEW MERCH SHOP! Be a PROUD Word Wizard.https://www.etsy.com/shop/LlamaDoodle/

What is a beta reader? How can I determine I'm ready to give my manuscript to them? Should I consider family for beta readers? How can I prepare them to give good feedback? What should I expect from a batch of beta-reading?Having any of these questions or just want some new ideas for your next beta reading sesh? Host Sheridan Sharp is here with some resources and ideas!ResourcesAm I Write Episode with Annalisa Summea: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2031789/13796507Am I Write Episode with Laura Pence Atencio: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2031789/13384043NEW MERCH SHOP! Be a PROUD Word Wizard.https://www.etsy.com/shop/LlamaDoodle/

You've been tirelessly working on your writing, pouring your heart and soul into your stories, but when it comes to getting published, you're hitting a brick wall. You've been told to simply keep submitting your work, but the rejections keep piling up, leaving you frustrated and demoralized. Guest, Annalisa Summea reveals the her individualized program to help you accomplish your writing goals. Get some freebees straight from the publishers and more on this episode of Am I Write!Resourceshttps://datewiththemuse.com/freeagentguide/www.StorytellingForPantsers.comwww.DateWithTheMuse.comwww.writing-gym.comFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/AnnalisaCParent/Facebook Group: facebook.com/groups/1767454483477408/Twitter @annalisaparentStage Whispers, by Annalisa: https://a.co/d/8mNNlFYAcross the Universe Series by Beth Revis: https://www.goodreads.com/series/56124-across-the-universe About AnnalisaAnnalisa Summea helps writers to finish novels, publish traditionally and live the author lifestyle. She writes for many local, national, and international publications, has written and produced sketches for a Telly-Award winning CBS television show. She and her work have been featured on Huffington Post Live, PBS, The New York Times, and The Associated Press, as well as many podcasts, radio and television programs.Her book Storytelling for Pantsers: How to Outline and Revise your Novel without an Outline is a recipient of a CIPA EVVY Silver award for Best Business Book, and a finalist in the humor category. Her newest title is Stage Whispers: A Living History, Retold.Annalisa has taught writing around the world, spoken at writing conferences in New York, London, Paris, Boston, and beyond. When she’s not writing, you can find her walking her dog, camping with her Girl Scout troop, or volunteering with the Rotary Club.NEW MERCH SHOP! Be a PROUD Word Wizard.https://www.etsy.com/shop/LlamaDoodle/

Monica Miller returns to the show to share how to captivate readers and build a loyal following through the power of personal connection and storytelling. Monica emphasizes the importance of weaving your gold thread by starting in the middle of your story. Make a lasting impact with personal experiences and perspectives in both your books and marketing efforts.Resourceswww.monicawrites.com/Calendarhttps://www.facebook.com/monika.lynn17www.monicawrites.comwww.monicawrites.com/Labwww.monicawrites.com/Templateshttps://www.subscribepage.com/savvyauthorThe first episode with Monica: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2031789/13205165 About MonicaMonica Miller helps authors market their books and receive more visibility by being Your Content Guide. Monica inspires authors through her monthly membership participants to share themselves, their stories, and their works with the world through marketing. She is a four-time published author, International Speaker, and Writer, and she owns her business, Monica Writes while living life in Northern Indiana with her husband and two boys where she spends her days homeschooling her oldest son, drinking coffee, reading fantasy, going on walks, and keeping up with her boys.NEW MERCH SHOP! Be a PROUD Word Wizard.https://www.etsy.com/shop/LlamaDoodle/

I have an idea, but I don't know if it will stand the test of time. How do I know it's good? Should I share my work with others? What if I'm really excited about it?Does it need to be outlined before I dive in? If you're looking for answers to these questions, let's have a candid conversation and see if we can get you somewhere today on Am I Write! Plus, tune in for some resources and quotes from famous authors that might get you back into the zone. Resources  Watch for upcoming episode on coaching/mentorship, querying, and storytelling for PANTSERS: Annalisa Summeya! Episode ONE [!] with Author Josh Allen: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2031789/11150970  SURRENDER your control over everything and just write: Brent Perkinshttps://www.buzzsprout.com/2031789/13484118  A writing community, accountability, and coaching: Monica Millerhttps://www.buzzsprout.com/2031789/13205165   Entering the writing scene WITHOUTOUT a background/the query/publishing journey reality: Kiana Krystlehttps://www.buzzsprout.com/2031789/12773653  Writing solo versus writing collaboratively (and advice for newbies): Gina Buonagurohttps://www.buzzsprout.com/2031789/12156817  Face Rejection, Be Persistent, and Don’t Fear the Pivot: Heather Carter https://www.buzzsprout.com/2031789/11827662  Getting to know YOURSELF as a writer & when to push through the hardships for the story: Lilian Hornhttps://www.buzzsprout.com/2031789/11707249  Gut instincts and taking yourself seriously as a writer: Maggie Gileshttps://www.buzzsprout.com/2031789/11658064  Disaster Characters, Disaster Queries, and Disaster Drafts: You Need Them ALL: JC Petersonhttps://www.buzzsprout.com/2031789/11611125NEW MERCH SHOP! Be a PROUD Word Wizard.https://www.etsy.com/shop/LlamaDoodle/

A single offhand remark from a loved one ignited something in her soul; join bestselling author Sarah M. Eden as she reveals tips from her unexpected journey into authorship that has grown into a many years - and many books - strong career. Stay tuned until the end for her EPIC announcement, newly released!Key Takeaways: Find plot inspiration from history and personal experiences.Learn to effectively manage the leap from manuscript to published work while protecting reader and publisher interests.The necessity of treating writing as a regular job amalgamating both creative and business aspects.Resourceswww.SarahMEden.comInstagram.com/sarah_m_edenFacebook.com/SarahMEdenhttps://www.youtube.com/@betweenthelinespodcast1415About SarahSarah M. Eden is a USA Today best-selling author of witty and charming historical romances, including 2020’s Foreword Reviews INDIE Awards Gold Winner for Romance, "Forget Me Not," and 2020 Holt Medallion finalist, "Healing Hearts." She is a three-time “Best of State” Gold Medal winner for fiction and a three-time Whitney Award winner. Combining her obsession with history and her affinity for tender love stories, Sarah loves crafting deep characters and heartfelt romances set against rich historical backdrops. She holds a bachelor’s degree in research and happily spends hours perusing the reference shelves of her local library.Sarah is represented by Pam Pho at Steven Literary Agency.​NEW MERCH SHOP! Be a PROUD Word Wizard.https://www.etsy.com/shop/LlamaDoodle/

Let go of control and surrender to the transformative power of writing as guest Brent Perkins shares his journey from a corporate career to embracing his passion, inspiring aspiring writers to find fulfillment in the unpredictable world of publishing."Just be happy with the fulfillment that you get from [writing]."  - Brent PerkinsResourceswww.3xBold.comwww.PapercutsSuck.comNo More Mister Nice Guy by Robert GloverThe Kin of ATA are Waiting For You by Dorothy BryantAbout Brent "I spent the first half of life building a career around achievement, reaching C-Suite status, traveling the world, speaking, launching new technologies, and building businesses. After a 7 year journey that led through some dark places, plant medicine journeys, and eye-opening realizations, it became evident that nothing external was ever going to fill the void. As the reality of divorce after 18 years of marriage sunk in, I began to see the grind for what it truly was, bringing clarity to what really matters in life. Beginning with a divine 'tap on the shoulder', I stepped out of corporate America, put everything else on hold, and wrote my first book.'Papercuts: The Art of Self Delusion,' set to launch in the summer of 2023, paves the road for others to break free from victimhood and embrace a life of integrity. It has allowed me to bring my passion for a life well-lived, and well-traveled, to help others integrate and build healthy rituals around being bold in body, mind, and spirit. My home base is in Phoenix, AZ, I am the father of two amazing teenage daughters and am an active member of Front Row Dads - a mastermind and charitable community that prioritizes a family first, business second mindset."NEW MERCH SHOP! Be a PROUD Word Wizard.https://www.etsy.com/shop/LlamaDoodle/

Get ready to supercharge your content creation process with the help of AI. Guest Laura Pence Atencio, a digital marketing expert and founder of Social Savvy Geek, understands the frustrations and challenges writers face when it comes to idea development. With AI by your side, you can organize your thoughts, generate content ideas, and save precious time in the process (no more staring at a blank page).ResourcesWebsite: https://linktr.ee/socialsavvygeekAbout LauraThis year, Laura Pence Atencio has made a bold decision to go all-in on authors. 📚 After taking a deep look back at her work over the past 13 years of working with clients, she found a pattern among her favorite clients - nearly all of them had written books. In fact, her favorite projects were book promotion and funnels built around books.With this realization, Laura is now focusing her expertise on working with coaches who are launching a book or using their book to open doors to get on stages, do podcast tours, or simply to bring more qualified clients into their business. As a leading authority on digital marketing and business growth, Laura is excited to help authors achieve their goals and reach their target audience through her proven strategies and customer journey expertise. So if you're an author looking to make a big impact this year, Laura Pence Atencio is the expert you need on your team.NEW MERCH SHOP! Be a PROUD Word Wizard.https://www.etsy.com/shop/LlamaDoodle/

Guest Monica Miller shares her writing story that began in her teens,  where she curated engaging stories which later traversed the publishing world, journalism, and even the college lecture halls. Today, she integrates her robust experience and her discovered enthusiasm for marketing to guide budding authors. Her forte lies in leveraging fun, transparency, and creativity to extend a writer's reach while preserving the essence of their brand and their love for writing.ResourcesWebsite: www.monicawrites.comProfile: https://www.facebook.com/monika.lynn17Page: https://www.facebook.com/MonicaWrites4You/Instagram: instagram.com/yourcontentguideHigh Performing Storytelling Content Templates for $7: www.monicawrites.com/TemplatesAbout MonicaMonica Miller is Your Content Guide where she takes the stories from your heart, the expertise from your head, and creates a meaningful marketing message so that your audience is captivated and converted into raving clients. Monica helps you be seen, heard, and felt with every word you write so that you can build an audience that is ready to learn and buy from you. She is a three-time published author, International Speaker and Writer, and owns her business, Monica Writes, while raising her two little boys in northern Indiana along with her husband.NEW MERCH SHOP! Be a PROUD Word Wizard.https://www.etsy.com/shop/LlamaDoodle/

Get new book suggestions from a fellow writer and bookie whose spoken with many of the authors in real time and reads YA books by the hundreds - and counting! Join host Sheridan Sharp for short clips where she spiels how their plots, common themes, and important characterizations recommend them (without the spoilers) on YouTube. Most of all, tune in to kick back with a book and have a good time!ResourcesBook Spiels with Sheridan Playlist (stay tuned for new upcoming releases!):https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLWEB1WvIm3OhmwRSxnL8qBn1GlTzmNG8kSheridan's GoodReads: https://www.goodreads.com/sheridansharpNEW MERCH SHOP! Be a PROUD Word Wizard.https://www.etsy.com/shop/LlamaDoodle/

Samantha shares her insights on how to develop the skills required for copywriting, including researching, understanding the target audience, and effective communication. Drawing from her experience as a creative writer and copywriter, she highlights how copywriting can be an exciting AND fulfilling career path. Tune in today to learn actionable insights on how to improve your writing skills and translate them into a successful career. Don't let your uncertainty hold you back!ResourcesWebsite: cultofpersonality.co Instagram: cultofpersonality.coMedium Email: sam@cultofpersonlaity.co About SamanthaSamantha Pollack is a Creative Director & Humanist Copywriter who creates powerful brand identities and compelling marketing copy for founders, visionaries, service providers, and activists. Sam’s clients include high-profile thought leaders, ethical clothing companies, intersectional therapists, and the company that makes those RBG action figures. She developed the creative direction, messaging, and sitewide copy for an inclusive athleisure company that ended up on Oprah’s Favorite Things(!).NEW MERCH SHOP! Be a PROUD Word Wizard.https://www.etsy.com/shop/LlamaDoodle/

Ready to learn the key to unlocking greater productivity and creativity? Guest Kathy Davis has the solution for achieving optimal writing performance through prioritizing self-care.  Learn to master self-care techniques to boost your productivity and unlock your creative potential. Discover how the right food choices can elevate your cognitive performance and overall well-being. And learn valuable insights into crafting compelling narratives across various formats. Unlock your full potential as a writer by taking care of yourself, starting with today’s episode on Am I Write.  Resources Instagram: @veginspired (Let her know you found her on Am I Write!)Facebook: VegInspired - Plant-Based LivingYouTube: VeginspiredWebsite: veginspired.com Check out Kathy's books: 30 Minute Whole Food Plant-Based Cookbook, Super Easy Plant-Based Cookbook, Budget-Friendly Plant-Based Cookbook, and Visioning: Creating the Life of Your Dreams in the Age of Intention.NEW MERCH SHOP! Be a PROUD Word Wizard.https://www.etsy.com/shop/LlamaDoodle/

“It's a lot to present yourself every day as a brand and try to keep the marketing going and keep all the wheels in alignment.”If you're feeling frustrated and defeated because, despite your efforts to shift your mindset towards evolution and self-discovery, you're not seeing any significant progress, then you are not alone!As guest Stephanie Hayes explains: this mindset is often a result of a creative misalignment. Join host Sheridan Sharp to hear Stephanie teach how to identify if you’re pursuing something that doesn't serve you any longer, or it's time for a little bit of a refresh. Take the first step to build a brand that is in alignment with YOU and become inspired again. ResourcesWebsite: stephaniehayes.bizPodcast, Real People, Real Business: podcast.stephaniehayes.bizNEW MERCH SHOP! Be a PROUD Word Wizard.https://www.etsy.com/shop/LlamaDoodle/

Branding Expert Yamilca Rodriguez has a passion for entrepreneurs who can do anything in this world and is here to help listeners attract the right individual by selling your brand (you) through the lens of human behavior. She also breaks down the difference between theories of Freud and Young’s 12 different archetypes (GOLD for characterization!). Though shorter, this episode is packed with essential visualization of your TRUE audience and brand. Tune in!ResourcesBrand Therapist by Yamilca Rodriguez:Jerry Campbell’s 12 Steps of Story Theory Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/louisvillebespoke/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/yamilcarodriguez/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/yamilca.rodriguez.71NEW MERCH SHOP! Be a PROUD Word Wizard.https://www.etsy.com/shop/LlamaDoodle/

Jump back in to the conversation between host Sheridan Sharp and Kiana Krystle, a resilient and talented writer who shares her captivating story:  The world of publishing can be a rollercoaster, as Kiana discovered during her journey to bring her debut novel to life. Beset by delays and an emotionally taxing revision process, Kiana's tenacity and passion for her story became her driving force. She learned to stay humble, trust her editors, and always seek the heart of her story. Kiana has immense experience in refining her manuscript, learning the importance of staying present and mentally prepared throughout the revision process. Her determination and unique experience with the publishing industry make her an excellent source of guidance for young adult writers looking for support and advice. About KianaKiana Krystle is an Asian American author with a love for lush, whimsical prose and fairytales. She is a previous editorial intern at North Star Editions, former literary fellow at BookEnds Literary, and a Pitch Wars Mentor for the Class of 2021. When she’s not writing, Kiana is either at the beach, performing moon rituals, or obsessing over Taylor Swift and Lana Del Rey. She loves all things cottagecore, sea themed, and romance. Kiana’s debut novel DANCE OF THE STARLIT SEA is scheduled for publication in Summer 2024 by Peachtree Teen, and she is represented by Naomi Davis. You can connect with Kiana on social media @kiana_krystle on Instagram and Twitter.  Resources@kiana_krystleTikTok: kianakrystleWicked Like a Wildfire by Lana PopovicPreorder her book, Dance of the Starlit Sea! NEW MERCH SHOP! Be a PROUD Word Wizard.https://www.etsy.com/shop/LlamaDoodle/

Newly debuting author Kiana Krystle takes a seat with host Sheridan Sharp to open up about her amazing but at times deeply daunting journey, from self-teaching herself the query process to an unexpected 9 offers even though her story was still in the “on proposal” stage. Gain a wealth of insights from her story, like how persistence and self-belief are key to achieving your goals. Writing is a tough industry, and it's easy to get discouraged when things don't go as planned. As Kiana illustrates, with grit and determination, anything is possible. And stay tuned for next week with more wisdom from Kiana in part 2!  About KianaKiana Krystle is an Asian American author with a love for lush, whimsical prose and fairytales. She is a previous editorial intern at North Star Editions, former literary fellow at BookEnds Literary, and a Pitch Wars Mentor for the Class of 2021. When she’s not writing, Kiana is either at the beach, performing moon rituals, or obsessing over Taylor Swift and Lana Del Rey. She loves all things cottagecore, sea themed, and romance. Kiana’s debut novel DANCE OF THE STARLIT SEA is scheduled for publication in Summer 2024 by Peachtree Teen, and she is represented by Naomi Davis. You can connect with Kiana on social media @kiana_krystle on Instagram and Twitter.  Resources@kiana_krystleTikTok: kianakrystleWicked Like a Wildfire by Lana PopovicPreorder her book, Dance of the Starlit Sea! NEW MERCH SHOP! Be a PROUD Word Wizard.https://www.etsy.com/shop/LlamaDoodle/

Today, podcasting expert Lyndsay Phillips joins host Sheridan Sharp to talk to the creative writers AND business writers looking to expand their presence and spread the word about their new and upcoming projects.  The best way to build relationships with potential fans? Podcasts! Let’s talk about how you can promote your brand—YOU—by making appearances, creating easy but invaluable assets, and building authority without condescending.  Welcome back to season 2, Word Wizards!ResourcesSmoothbusiness.com/writeNEW MERCH SHOP! Be a PROUD Word Wizard.https://www.etsy.com/shop/LlamaDoodle/

Guest Gina Buonaguro brings her unique experience as a multi-published historical fiction writer, both as a coauthor and solo author. She compares and contrasts these two roles and offers advice for where you can find inspiration for historical fiction. Talk about the merits of holding control over your self-published work versus the help provided from traditional publishing houses—and be prepared to do your own networking either way! As a bonus, get the scoop from her latest book, newly released in 2023! ResourcesWebsiteFacebookAbout GinaGina Buonaguro’s latest novel (and her first solo) is The Virgins of Venice, released on December 13, 2022 by HarperCollins. She has coauthored three historical novels: The Sidewalk Artist, a dual-timeline story about the Renaissance master Raphael; Ciao Bella, which takes place in Northern Italy in the summer after World War II; and The Wolves of St. Peter’s, a murder mystery set at the time Michelangelo was painting the Sistine Chapel ceiling in Rome.NEW MERCH SHOP! Be a PROUD Word Wizard.https://www.etsy.com/shop/LlamaDoodle/