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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.

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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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In this enlightening episode of Authors Who Lead, I sit down with Dr. Avanti Kumar Singh, a Western-trained physician who has reconnected with her South Asian roots to explore Ayurvedic principles. Dr. Singh's latest book, "The Longevity Formula," brings ancient Ayurvedic wisdom to modern readers, focusing on how harmonizing with nature can promote a longer, healthier life. Let's delve into the key insights from our conversation and how adopting Ayurvedic practices can transform your health.

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00:00 Ayurveda: living in harmony with nature.
04:41 Inflammation is linked to all chronic illnesses.
07:43 Modern stress mimics a constant fight-or-flight response.
10:52 Assess digestion and toxic load for health.
12:46 Health habits need adjusting based on symptoms.
17:26 Shifting to seasonal eating enhances personal health.
21:33 Activate longevity switches: remove toxins, and sync nature.
23:42 Sync with nature to optimize longevity and health.
27:14 Aging with vitality inspires Ayurvedic lifestyle reconsideration.
31:38 Personal experience deepened commitment to health-focused work.
35:28 Authentically wrote the second book, disregarding others' opinions.
39:23 Helping one person makes everything worth it.
40:36 Podcast promotes Avanti's book on longevity formula.

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