Ahem.
I almost didn’t post this video.
I watched it and cringed.
—Why didn’t I hold the camera higher?
—Why didn’t I speak more concisely?
—Why did I repeat myself in so many places?
WHATEVER.
This is me.
And this is my authentic encouragement to you:
Embrace the mess and keep going!
We’ve GOT this.
Donate to My Marathon Fundraising Effort!
https://donate.hakuapp.com/donations/new?fundraiser=1181661ec953b95553c9
UPCOMING EVENTS!
The SUSTAINABLE WRITING SUMMIT (Virtual, FREE!)
22 Speakers, September 10-13
On Sept 10-13, my friend Sloan is hosting the Sustainable Writing Summit, a free event aimed at helping writers keep the creative spark alive and keep showing up to the page — even in difficult times.
I hope you'll check out Sloan’s live interview with me on September 10th from 1-2pm Central for “WHO AM I TO WRITE MEMOIR?”
In this engaging 30-minute session, Sloan and I will share a candid conversation about the doubts, fears, and obstacles that keep so many aspiring memoirists from starting—or finishing—their stories.
Drawing on years of experience guiding first-time writers, I’ll unpack the most common questions I hear, including: Am I writing for myself or the public? What qualifies me to tell my story? Where do I start and end? How do I make readers care if I don’t have a big following?
Together, we’ll explore how to navigate imposter syndrome, stay accountable, and find supportive communities and resources. We’ll also touch on the “rules” of writing about others, plus what to do once a manuscript is complete.
Whether you’re just beginning to imagine your book or deep in the writing process, this session will offer practical insights and encouragement to help you finally claim your voice on the page.
It's free to sign up, and you'll also get access to 20+ more presentations and interviews that will help you make space for your art and figure out your next steps. Each session will have a replay available for 24 hours after it launches.
You can find more info here: https://sustainable-writing-summit.heysummit.com/?ac=BwPLpBLS
There's something at the summit for every creative writer — whether you're working in fiction, memoir, or poetry; a plotter or a pantser; whether you thrive with clear, analytical next steps or a more meditative, reflective approach — there's something in these presentations to help you find a clear path forward. And if you're interested in extra resources and accountability, there's an optional paid upgrade that includes extended access to all the sessions, as well as bonus resources and co-working sessions.
UPCOMING WORKSHOPS ON EXPRESSIVE WRITING FOR EMOTIONAL HEALING
Wednesday, October 1, 2025 — 6-7:30pm
1.5 hour in-person workshop
Chicago Public Library
Rogers Park Branch
6907 N. Clark Street, Chicago IL 60626
Register here
Saturday, October 25, 2025 — 1-4pm
3-hour in-person workshop
Northwestern’s Norris University Center
1999 Campus Dr, Evanston, IL 60208
Registration fee: NU $39, Public $49
Registration link
Saturday, November 1, 2025 — 2-5pm
3-hour in-person workshop
Northwestern’s Norris University Center
1999 Campus Dr, Evanston, IL 60208
Registration fee: NU $39, Public $49
Registration link
