Everyone should be able to share their story. Whether you write for yourself, for your family, or for the world, you can get immense joy and fulfillment from writing about your life. Everyone should be able to experience that. But traditionally, the publishing industry has truly sucked at supporting writers who are Black, Indigenous, people of color, and LGBTQIA+ people. It’s not okay. Read more…
This summer, I wrote, swam, edited, paddle boarded, coached writers, ate, edited, wrote, and ate lots more. I drank beer, margaritas, gin, wine, and I think a Smirnoff Ice slipped in there somewhere. I splurged on variety, in work, and in life. And I became inspired. Variety fuels inspiration, which ignites great writing. How will you add variety to your writing life? Read more…
As a big ol' word nerd, I turn to books to learn about important issues. I've found some good lists of books to learn about racism and help me become a more vocal anti-racist. I'm sharing them with you in this post. Read more…
Today I’m asking for your podcast recommendations and giving you the lowdown on MY favorite podcasts! They run the gamut across business, writing, cooking, Harry Potter, The Office, DIY, and feminism. I hope you’ll find something to inspire your writing, reignite your creativity, or whatever else you need during lockdown life and beyond. Read more…
Have you ever wondered how to publish an audiobook? Or if it’s even possible to self-publish audiobooks? Do you hold secret dreams of narrating your own audiobook one day? (I do!) Maybe you’re wondering how to record high-quality audio to appear on podcasts and promote your book. Well, good news. I’ve found the perfect book for you! It’s Audio for Authors by Joanna Penn. Here’s what you need to know. Read more…
Are you sitting comfortably? I want to tell you a story about Penny, who found a way to finally get the words flowing on her book. She learned that it doesn't matter how long you've been stuck—one lightbulb moment can get you moving. Here’s her story…. Read more…
When I talk to people about what the best writing software is, I always get the same question. “What is Scrivener and should I use it?” Scrivener is, in my opinion, the best software for planning, organizing, and writing a book, and yes, you should use it—but only if you’ve already written a lot of words. Read on to find out why Scrivener is such a good writing tool and why I have such a strong caveat to recommending it. Read more…
Today, a woman asked me, “What’s the best writing software to write my book?” She’s not alone in wondering about what to use to write a book. I get asked this question a lot. So, here’s the answer: The best writing software is the one you’re already comfortable with. Read on for what this means, and why it ISN’T a lame answer! Read more…
Want to start writing a memoir but not sure where to start? I’ve got your back! Here are three tips to help you finally start writing your memoir without feeling overwhelmed or confused. Read more…
Feeling like crap? Bored out of your big, beautiful brain? Run so ragged you can't remember what it feels like to just do something you enjoy? Me too. But a good book is really helping. If you're in need of a recommended read to give you an escape, some perspective, or excitement, here are my favorite memoir books. Read more…
When the world is in crisis, it makes me reexamine what's really important. This week, stuck at home, I've been thinking about whether stories matter in times of crisis. And I’ve had a few realizations about this and my life as a book coach. Read more…
What do you do when life, concussions, pandemics, homeschooling kiddos, lousy work-from-home "solutions," and toilet paper hoarding gets in the way of your writing goals, business, or other life dreams? Here are the lessons I learned from my little vacay in Concussion-Ville (yes, I smacked my head), which I'm applying to the extended staycation on Corona Island. Read more…
What’s it actually like to write a book, get a book deal, and get published with a major publisher? In an exclusive interview, I asked Ash Ambirge, whose debut book launched today with Penguin Random House! I told Ash that you, dear friend, are thinking of writing a non-fiction book but aren’t sure if it’s worth the time and effort. What does she want you to know? Check it out… Read more…
If you think your writing isn’t good enough to write a book, if you’re worried you don’t have good enough grammar, or if you’re not a real writer, listen up. Because your writing doesn’t have to be as good as you think to write a great book. Seriously. Here’s why. Read more…
If you're considering joining Make It Work Online, the business coaching program that I owe all MY success to (!), applications close at 6 p.m. Pacific on Thursday, January 30. So, if your business isn't making a consistent income as you'd like, if you wish you could find a steady stream of clients, if you're ready for a clear plan to finally make a full-time income doing work you love.… Read more…
“Hey Liz, I see your business is doing well, so I wanted to ask: How do you find clients? I’ve enrolled in so many business courses, but I can’t seem to get anywhere. I just want to help people and make money doing what I love.” This was the email I got from Abby last week. And here’s my answer, which hasn’t changed since summer 2018. Read more…
I’m so excited to announce that I’m being interviewed by Darlene Hawley for the Attract & Stand Out Brand Building Virtual Summit 2020. I’m sharing an exclusive interview on How to Know If You’re Ready to Write Your Book (and what to do, whether you are or aren’t). Check out the short video below to learn about the free summit, which goes live NEXT WEEK! Read on to find out if it’s for you. Read more…
Let's start with what should be obvious but needs saying anyway, for the sake of all the puppies around the world (and so no one tries to sue my ass). "Kill the puppy" is JUST WRITING ADVICE. No puppies should be harmed in the reading of this post. It’s writing advice that willl make sure all your writing means something. Killing puppies will give your writing focus, impact, and purpose. Here’s how. Read more…
Last week, a client asked if I could edit her book after she’s finished the first draft. You might also be asking, “Do I need an editor?” and, “When do I need an editor for my book?” I didn’t handle my client’s question very well, so this post is my lame-ass way of making up for it. I’ll tell you why you don’t need an editor (probably), and why I’m going back on my word to this client. Read more…
Man, I hate social media in November. It’s all, “What’s your goal for 2020?” or, “Who’s ready to make next year the best one yet?!” I want to shout, “SLOW THE EFF DOWN!” It’s not too late to start your book this year. Here’s one small step you can take to show the universe, the gods, the family, and yourself that you’re really doing this. Read more…