The Make Meaning Podcast

Brenda Meller is an entrepreneur, author and social media coach who helps people maximize their presence on LinkedIn. She is the author of Social Media Pie: How to enjoy a bigger slice of the LinkedIn Pie and host of the Enthusiastically Self-Employed podcast. In the latest episode of the Make Meaning Podcast, host Lynne Golodner interviews Brenda about her book and the evolution of her career. She talks about her writing process, including how she wrote the book in just 30 days, and why she opted to self-publish. They talk about the ever-evolving nature of social media, which demands periodic updates to the book along with plans for future books. In this episode, Lynne and Brenda discuss: The story behind the book title Her writing process and the power of writers conferences Committing to daily writing Creating a community-focused book with shoutouts to readers Self-publishing with help Creating an audiobook The benefits of multiple book formats Working past retirement age Links and Resources: Social Media Pie: How to Enjoy a Bigger Slice of the LinkedIn Pie Enthusiastically Self-Employed Rochester Writers How to write a book in 30 days by Don Staley NaNoWriMo Scotia Road Books Dave Stokes - audiobook coach Boot Camp with Brenda Find Brenda Meller: Website LinkedIn Instagram Facebook Twitter YouTube If you enjoyed this episode, you’ll like these other Make Meaning Podcast episodes: Episode 21 – Brenda Meller – All About Pie Episode 25 – Crosby Noricks – Perfect PR Moments Episode 117 – Steven Wingate – How to Find Your Voice Again & Again Episode 128 – Becky Robinson – Building Reach for Books Episode 142 – Announcing Scotia Road Books

Patrick Hicks is an Irish Catholic writer from Minnesota who has a deep fascination with the Holocaust. He has written three Holocaust novels and has conducted extensive research on the subject, visiting twelve different concentration camps and speaking with survivors. Patrick is also a professor at Augustana University in South Dakota, where he teaches writing and literature. In the latest episode of the Make Meaning Podcast, host Lynne Golodner interviews Patrick about his newest book, Across the Lake. In his second time on the Make Meaning Podcast, Patrick explains what inspired this novel, driven by research on gender and violence. He reflects on the impact of writing about such a dark period in human history and the importance of standing up to fascism at any time, especially today. The interview concludes with a discussion on topics that engage students today and a look at the future of writing. In this episode, Lynne and Patrick discuss: Inspiration for Across the Lake Braided narratives How to create compelling characters that are starkly different from the author Challenging yourself as an author Why it’s so important for an Irish Catholic novelist to write about the Holocaust Character development and story visioning The art of naming characters Gender differences in violence during the Holocaust The impact on the author of writing about the Holocaust The importance of addressing fascism and hatred in fiction Contemporary students' interest in equality and progressivism Links and Resources: Patrick’s first interview on the Make Meaning Podcast, episode 102 In the Shadow of Dora Ravensbrück concentration camp PBS: Public Broadcasting Service Hitler's Furies by Wendy Lower Aufseherin B17 bombers Augustana University Patriot Front Find Patrick Hicks: Website Facebook Twitter Blog If you enjoyed this episode, you’ll like these other Make Meaning Podcast episodes: Episode 127 – Ly Tran – Writing Unapologetically Episode 123 – Karen Gordon – On Surviving the Surviving Episode 117 – Steven Wingate – How to Find Your Voice Again & Again Episode 102 – Patrick Hicks – How to Write Historical Fiction Episode 68 – M.L. Liebler – H ow to Use Writing & Performance to be an Activist Episode 61 – Merle Saferstein – How to Leave a Legacy Through Journaling

Qin Sun Stubis is a Chinese-American author of the book Once Our Lives: A Memoir of Shanghai, Teahouses, and Three Generations of Family, which tells the story of four generations of Chinese women in Shanghai, China during the Great Famine, navigating war and revolution. In the latest episode of the Make Meaning Podcast, host Lynne Golodner interviews Qin about her early life, China’s Cultural Revolution and her love of words and storytelling. Qin explains how the loss of her parents inspired her to write a memoir that brings to life her family’s stories and a fascinating part of China’s history. She also discusses her writing process and the challenges she faced as a first-time author. Qin has received awards for this beautiful book and continues to write essays and short stories. In this episode, Lynne and Qin discuss: Growing up in poverty and how that influenced her writing A mother's influence on her love of words Early memories of writing – quoting Mao Zedong’s quotations Attending the Shanghai Institute of Foreign Languages Being a late-blooming writer A mission to preserve family stories and reputation Why history and humanity is the same around the world First-time author challenges along the publishing journey The importance of the first sentence and first chapter Forming a support group for older women writers Her column for the Santa Monica Star Links and Resources: Chinese Cultural Revolution Thomas Hardy Shakespeare’s Sonnets Louisa May Alcott Bessie Streeter Aldrich Tess of the d’Urbervilles F. Scott Fitzgerald The Great Gatsby Nonfiction Author Association Miami Book Fair PenCraft Book Awards Frank McCourt, Angela's Ashes Find Qin Sun Stubis: Website LinkedIn Instagram Facebook If you enjoyed this episode, you’ll like these other Make Meaning Podcast episodes: Episode 156 – Blair Fell – Original Storylines & Unique Characters Episode 149 – Anne-Marie Oomen – Writing through Family Episode 146 – Barbara Stark-Nemon – Tracing the Path of Historical Fiction Episode 139 – Desiree Cooper – Being “Genre Agnostic” Episode 131 – Weina Dai Randel – The Last Rose of Shanghai

Elizabeth Conte is an author with a passion for bringing 19th-century literature to the 21st-century reader. She is the author of Finding Jane, a time travel historical novel, and Chosen Mistress, a scintillating story set in Victorian England. Elizabeth is the founder of Jane Writes Press, a hybrid publishing house for writers who don't fit into traditional publishing boxes. In the latest episode of the Make Meaning Podcast, host Lynne Golodner interviews Elizabeth about her debut novel, Finding Jane, her inspiration for the book and the challenges she faced while writing and editing it. Elizabeth also talks about her marketing strategies and the success she has achieved as an indie author. She introduces her next book, Chosen Mistress, which explores the dark side of Victorian life and women's roles during that time. She also explains her decision to self-publish and her vision for her imprint, Jane Writes Press. In this episode, Lynne and Elizabeth discuss: The story behind Finding Jane, an homage to Pride and Prejudice Making 19th century literature more accessible What it means to "do really well" with book sales Book marketing strategies The importance of consistent marketing efforts Pitching media outlets for author interviews The purpose of writing & target audience Perspectives on adverbs – listen to a fierce debate on adjectives & adverbs around the 10-minute mark! The indie author’s journey Frustrations with fitting into traditional publishing categories Starting a publishing house The importance of professional editing Creating a new category called Literary Romance What is the purpose of your writing & how do you want people to know you? Links and Resources: Pride and Prejudice Nathaniel Hawthorne Writing Coaching Woman of Valor The Los Angeles Times article about Elizabeth Conte Lynne’s class, Demystifying Show, Don’t Tell Find Elizabeth Conte: Website Facebook Twitter TikTok Blog LinkedIn Instagram If you enjoyed this episode, you’ll like these other Make Meaning Podcast episodes: Episode 152 – Ami Irmen – Character-Driven Narratives Episode 146 – Barbara Stark-Nemon – Tracing the Path of Historical Fiction Episode 136 – Tammy Pasterick – Writing & Publishing Your Way Episode 129 – Rosina Lippi – Author of the Wilderness Series Episode 128 – Becky Robinson – Building Reach for Books

Ana Veciana-Suarez is a journalist and author. She has written for various publications and has published several books, including her latest novel, Dulcinea, which was inspired by her reading of Don Quixote in high school. Known for her meticulous research and attention to detail, Anna spent many years digging up the information she needed to focus on the Spanish Inquisition. In the latest episode of the Make Meaning Podcast, host Lynne Golodner interviews Ana about her writing process, the challenges of researching historical fiction, her experiences with marketing her book, and her insights into the changing landscape of the writing community. In this episode, Lynne and Ana discuss: Juggling writing as a journalist and author Process of writing her novel, Dulcinea Marketing and response to the book Different challenges, writing fiction as opposed to journalism Balancing writing with life and work Advice for aspiring writers: read and have self-discipline Finding historians who are subject matter experts in the era you are writing about Focusing on the characters at the edges of a story Golden Age Spain Links and Resources: Don Quixote Miguel de Cervantes The Miami Herald Readers Digest O magazine Woman’s Day The Washington Post Magazine Goodreads Women's Fiction Writers Association Michigan Writers Catalonia Find Ana Veciana-Suarez: Website Facebook Twitter Instagram LinkedIn If you enjoyed this episode, you’ll like these other Make Meaning Podcast episodes: Episode 146 – Barbara Stark-Nemon – Tracing the Path of Historical Fiction Episode 136 – Tammy Pasterick – Writing & Publishing Your Way Episode 132 – Merryn Glover – Literary Fiction About Place Episode 127 – Ly Tran – Writing Unapologetically Episode 118 – Elizabeth Gowing – How to Know a Place by Living its Stories

Jonathan Whitelaw is a Scottish author and journalist now living in Canada who wrote his first novel at the age of 17. He’s since published several books in the cozy crime genre, including Morbid Relations and the popular Bingo Hall Detectives series. In the latest episode of the Make Meaning Podcast, host Lynne Golodner interviews Jonathan about the cozy crime genre, why he’s drawn to it and the genre’s emphasis on humor, character, and setting. Plus, they discuss his publishing journey, from his first horrible book to being published by a small independent publisher to getting an agent and taking the plunge to become a full-time author. They also explore the differences and similarities between the publishing industry in the UK and Canada and how Jonathan has adapted his marketing to reach a North American audience while still appealing to his loyal UK readers. In this episode, Lynne and Jonathan discuss: Why you can write at any age Audience differences between Canada and the UK Genre talk The expansiveness of writing and publishing The popularity of cozy crime during times of crisis The challenge of writing humor Inspiration from in-law relationships The need for luck and endurance in the author journey Writing practice & daily routine Juggling writing, parenting and income-earning Importance of a supportive family and the "village" of the publishing industry Book cover differences between countries Lynne’s writing sabbatical in Nova Scotia Finding your audience in different geographical locations Links and Resources: The Hobbit Die Hard Lynne’s Writing Classes & Programs Nova Scotia Retreat When Words Collide Cozy Mystery Agatha Christie Terry Pratchett The Bingo Hall Detectives Ringwood Publishing Harper North Harper Collins The Village Hall Vendetta LJ Ross Indigo Colleen Hoover Find Jonathan Whitelaw: Website Facebook Twitter Instagram If you enjoyed this episode, you’ll like these other Make Meaning Podcast episodes: Episode 158 – Suzanne Nugent – On Character Development Episode 149 – Anne-Marie Oomen – Writing Through Family Episode 134 – Andrew McDiarmid – Simply Scottish Episode 132 – Merryn Glover – Literary Fiction about Place Episode 70 – Elena Reads – How to Stoke a Love of Reading in Kids

Finding an agent and publisher was easy for April Davila, an award-winning author who quit her job in 2016 to write full-time. Her debut novel, 142 Ostriches, won the WILLA Literary Awards for Women Writing the West. In this episode of the Make Meaning Podcast, host Lynne Golodner chats with April, a fourth-generation Californian who studied marine biology before being called to the written word. She honed her skills in marketing and technical writing jobs, dedicating early mornings to crafting fiction until she could finally make the transition to writing full-time. In this episode, Lynne and April discuss the lessons she learned along the way and why she pairs meditation with writing. In this episode, Lynne and April discuss: The inspiration behind 142 Ostriches Handling rejection Celebrating accolades Being a mindful writer Writing as a meditation How meditation helps writers Aligning entrepreneurship with writing Links and Resources: 142 Ostriches Kensington Books Mindfulness at Berkeley Write with Lynne Find April Davila: Website Instagram Facebook Twitter LinkedIn If you enjoyed this episode, you’ll like these other Make Meaning Podcast episodes: Episode 96 – Jim Rajan – How to Leave Everything Behind Episode 52 - Stacy Dockins - Journey to the Self Episode 50 - Gautam Jain - Strengthening Intellect Episode 47 - Linda Makowski - Quieting the Mind Episode 18 - Amy Haimerl - Shady Ladies & Detroit Hustle

Suzanne Nugent, author of Brunch and Other Obligations and host of the Character Development podcast, uses humor to confront life’s darkest moments. She navigates between various storytelling mediums, from novels to screenplays, finding the right narrative platform for each project. In the latest episode of the Make Meaning Podcast, host Lynne Golodner interviews Suzanne about her creative career and how writing has shaped her as a person. She shares her inspiration for her novel Brunch and Other Obligations and her journey to publishing. Suzanne also talks about her love for storytelling across platforms, including screenwriting and podcasting. In this episode, Lynne and Suzanne discuss: How writing helps Suzanne process her thoughts How to keep voice and focus consistent in writing How a first job writing obituaries sparked interest in finding humor in sad situations How to decide on a book publishing path How hiring a book coach motivated Suzanne to write her novel How to set long-term author career goals How to adapt novels to film How to create an audiobook Links and Resources: Lynne’s 2023 Nova Scotia Writers Retreat Ghost tour of Lunenberg Big Magic by Elizabeth Gilbert Scotia Road Books Woman of Valor Find Suzanne Nugent: Website Podcast If you enjoyed this episode, you’ll like these other Make Meaning Podcast episodes: Episode 151 – Rochelle Weinstein – Writing Best-Selling Novels Episode 150 – Lisa Peers – First Novels & Writing Friendships Episode 148 – Woman of Valor – Katie Scott interviews Lynne about her first novel! Episode 143 – Annie Cathryn – Dreams Come True: The Friendship Breakup Episode 135 – Camille Pagan – Making Writing Your Career

Blake Kimzey is the founder of writingworkshops.com, a global community offering writing classes taught by experienced instructors, like Make Meaning Podcast host Lynne Golodner. Blake is also an author, screenwriter and hands-on dad of three. In this episode, Blake recalls a pivotal moment in sixth grade when he wrote a King Arthur rip-off. He and Make Meaning Podcast host Lynne Golodner also talk about his journey as an author, the inspiration behind WritingWorkshops.com and the surprising and very winding journey of becoming an author. In this episode, Lynne and Blake discuss: Going from short stories to writing a novel Submitting novels and receiving rejections Transitioning to screenwriting Writing a novel while working at an engineering firm Embracing the long-term nature of a writing career The importance of supporting women authors over 40 WritingWorkshops.com's explosive growth Offering online classes during the pandemic and beyond Being in it for the long haul and why “first” novels are often third, fourth or tenth projects Publishing later in life Coming into your voice Creating stakes, tension and care for characters Links and Resources: King Arthur MFA George Saunders Austin Film Festival David Benioff Liz Hannah D.B. Weiss “A professional writer is an amateur who didn't quit.”– Richard Bach Elizabeth George Foundation Carrie by Stephen King On Writing, Stephen King ASJA Virtual Annual Conference Scotia Road Books Edan Lepucki Writing Coaching Lynne’s Writers Retreats Sackett Street Writers Find Blake Kimzey: Website Twitter Instagram LinkedIn Find writingworkshops.com: Website Facebook Twitter Instagram Blog If you enjoyed this episode, you’ll like these other Make Meaning Podcast episodes: Episode 144 – Danny Hankner – Founding Story Unlikely Episode 142 – Announcing Scotia Road Books Episode 79 – Laura Munson – How to Find Refuge in Writing Episode 73 – Jim Reese – Why Teaching Writing in Prisons Helps Everyone Episode 1 – Norman Cohn – the Best Business Advisor

While fiction is born from imagination and creativity, many authors explain how they came to the stories they create through lived experiences. This is definitely true for Blair Fell, author of The Sign for Home, whose work in the deafblind community taught him about nuances, details and issues facing that community. This debut novel takes readers on a journey through a fascinating community and the lives of compelling characters. In the latest episode of the Make Meaning Podcast, host Lynne Golodner interviews Blair about his writing process, the importance of research and the value of participating in a writing group. He discusses his background as a playwright and television writer, and how he transitioned into writing novels. Plus, Blair offers advice for writers, emphasizing the need to just write, join a writing group, and prioritize writing amid perpetual other commitments. In this episode, Lynne and Blair discuss: Finding inspiration in your work and relationships Researching and interviewing deafblind individuals Finding an agent and a publisher Writing a second book after a celebrated first book Working through a horrible first draft Motivation from setting deadlines and fear of disappointing others Building a successful writing career Why so many writers have a day job Authors who find success later in life Audiobook opportunities Links and Resources: John Lee Clark Protactile movement James Hannaham Didn't Nobody Give a Shit What Happened to Carlotta Doug Stewart Sterling Lord Literistic Cloud Atlas The Silver Linings Playbook American Dirt “Take care of the sense, the sounds will take care of themselves” - Alice in Wonderland Writing group with Marian Fontana & Louise Crawford David Groff PEN/Faulkner Delicious Foods Simon & Schuster Where the Crawdads Sing The City College of New York Woman of Valor by Lynne Golodner Find Blair Fell: Website Facebook TikTok Instagram If you enjoyed this episode, you’ll like these other Make Meaning Podcast episodes: Episode 152 – Ami Irmen – Character-Driven Narratives Episode 150 – Lisa Peers – First Novels & Writing Friendships Episode 145 – CL Walters – Young Adult & New Adult Fiction from Hawaii Episode 143 – Annie Cathryn – Dreams Come True: The Friendship Breakup Episode 139 – Desiree Cooper – Being “Genre Agnostic”

Episode 155 - Martha Anne Toll - Finely Crafted, Award-Winning Fiction Martha Anne Toll is an author and former lawyer who has always been passionate about writing. She grew up in a secular Jewish family and was deeply influenced by the stories of Holocaust survivors. Martha's debut novel, Three Muses, is a beautifully crafted story that combines her love for ballet and her exploration of the impact of the Holocaust on her own Jewish identity. She is currently working on her second novel, Duet for One, which delves into the world of classical music in Philadelphia. In the latest episode of the Make Meaning Podcast, host Lynne Golodner interviews Martha about her writing process, her publishing journey, marketing efforts, and the value of attending book events to learn from other authors. They also discuss how the Holocaust factors into Jewish identity, especially for 20th century American Jews. In this episode, Lynne and Martha discuss: The inspiration behind the novel Three Muses Martha's introduction to Judaism through the Holocaust Martha's next novel Developing characters & the love story in Three Muses Writing process and revision Research for writing a book How to find a publisher Marketing & speaking engagements The power of 100 rejections Writing routines & book events Why beginnings & endings are so difficult Writing novels with no formal writing training – why you don’t need a degree to write a great book! Being a ruthless self-editor Links and Resources: The Holocaust Auschwitz Classic music in Philadelphia Woman of Valor Viola Writing Coaching Swan Lake Developmental Editing Writing Retreats Regal House Publishing Petrichor Prize Lynne’s Substack Find Martha Anne Toll: Website Facebook Twitter Instagram LinkedIn Substack If you enjoyed this episode, you’ll like these other Make Meaning Podcast episodes: Episode 146 – Barbara Stark-Nemon – Tracing the Path of Historical Fiction Episode 142 – Announcing Scotia Road Books Episode 131 -Weina Dai Randel – The Last Rose of Shanghai Episode 129 – Rosina Lippi – Author of the Wilderness Series Episode 128 – Becky Robinson – Building Reach for Books

Episode 154 - Dawn Chalker - Writing What You Know Dawn Chalker wrote her first novel in fifth grade, finding inspiration from real life. That curiosity, creativity and imagination has continued throughout her life, drawing stories from journeys in nature. The northern Michigan-based writer based her recent novel, Bear Me in Mind, on a real-life encounter with a bear in Alaska and also her love for British detective shows. She also writes children’s books. In the latest episode of the Make Meaning Podcast, host Lynne Golodner interviews Dawn about the joys of writing, the importance of writing what you know, her publishing choices, and how she promotes her books. In this episode, Lynne and Dawn discuss: Writing a first novel in fifth grade before YA was a genre Writing as mindfulness Finding inspiration for books and diving into research to build a story Writing what you know and doing research Basing characters on people Finding the best beta readers Respecting the writer and understanding their goals The importance of doing your own book marketing Being more creative when writing by hand Links and Resources: Hepatica Books Mendenhall Glacier Society of Children's Book Writers and Illustrators Amazon KDP IngramSpark The Nature Conservancy Grass River Conservancy Author Brand Marketing Mastermind Where’s the Vacation? Bear Me In Mind Northwestern Michigan College Leelanau Peninsula Michigan Writers Traverse City Area District Library Find Dawn Chalker: Website LinkedIn If you enjoyed this episode, you’ll like these other Make Meaning Podcast episodes: Episode 138 – Sara Bennett Wealer – Connecting with YA Readers Episode 129 – Rosina Lippi – Author of the Wilderness Series Episode 122 – Valoree Gagnon & Karena Schmidt – On the Food & Culture of Indigenous Gardens Episode 105 – Helen Taylor & Gina Nicholas – How to Really Protect the Environment by Being a True Part of it Episode 49 – Dennis van Englesdorp, Nicole Lindsey & DeAndra LeMelle – Saving the Bees

Episode 153 – Jewish Books, Jewish Authors In a special two-part episode, Lynne Golodner interviews people who curate and promote Jewish books and Jewish authors. The first part features representatives from America's longest-running Jewish Book Fair -- Lauren Johnson, a librarian and consultant at the J-Detroit, and Brenda Brook, the 2023 chair of the Detroit Jewish Book Fair. The second part is a conversation with Naomi Firestone-Teeter, executive director of the Jewish Book Council. Learn why Detroit is a hub for Jewish literature, and consider the role of Jewish books in shaping identity of and for diverse audiences. In the latest episode of the Make Meaning Podcast, host Lynne Golodner interviews Brenda, Lauren, and Naomi about the legacy of Jewish book fairs and trends in the Jewish book world, including an increase in Holocaust-related writings and the growth of children's publishing. They also touch on the responsibility of Jewish authors in representing the community and how virtual events are attracting a global audience. In this episode, Lynne, Lauren, Brenda and Naomi discuss: The long history of the Detroit Jewish Book Fair Being the "People of the Book" Gentile authors writing for a Jewish audience Criteria for selecting books for the book fair Communicating Jewish identity to global audiences Jewish book fairs compared to other book events The importance of featuring authors who are not bestsellers The value of community engagement Growth and diversity in Jewish children's literature Personal journeys and passions for Jewish culture Changing conversations in the Jewish book world Trends in graphic narratives and genre fiction Intergenerational growth in the Jewish genre Fascination with the Orthodox community in Jewish literature Jewish books inspire conversations about identity and culture How books reflect the multifaceted Jewish experience and promote diversity Portraying Jews responsibly Jewish Book Month Accessibility and opportunities for smaller communities The JBC’s writers’ conference Links and Resources: Detroit Jewish Book Fair Woman of Valor The Holocaust Martha Ann Toll (who will be on the Make Meaning Podcast Dec. 1, 2023) Lynne’s Writing Classes Jewish Book Week PJ Library Jewish Publication Society The Paper Brigade JBC Network Global Jewish Literary Alliance JBC writers conference Irwin Shaw Maimonides Torah Elie Wiesel Jim Lehrer Peter Max Jeffrey Toobin Chaim Potok Jennifer Weiner Belva Plain Daniel Silva Pam Jenoff Karen Tintori Katz Jill Gregory Donald Levin Kristin Harmel Fanny Goldstein If you enjoyed this episode, you’ll like these other Make Meaning Podcast episodes: Episode 148 – Woman of Valor – Katie Scott interviews Lynne about her debut novel Episode 146 – Barbara Stark-Nemon – Tracing the Path of Historical Fiction Episode 130 – Merle Saferstein – Journaling & Legacy Episode 123 – Karen Gordon – On Surviving the Surviving Episode 39 – Rabbis Who Rock

Ami Irmen’s favorite storyteller was her grandfather, who set her on the path to becoming an educator and a writer. Her first traditionally-published novel is coming soon from Scarsdale Publishing, while she self-published another novel, Wherever Would I Be. Her short stories and poems have appeared in Sinister Wisdom, The Copperfield Review, and Glass: A Journal of Poetry. Ami teaches writing at Kishwaukee College. In the latest episode of the Make Meaning Podcast, host Lynne Golodner interviews Ami Irmen about her creative process, how to turn an idea into a book, which publishing route to take and how to fund a book on Kickstarter. In this episode, Lynne and Ami discuss: Teaching writing at the university level The writing process Finding a publisher without an agent Finding time to write when you work another job Jane Adeny Memorial School for Girls in Kenya Traditional publishing vs. self-publishing Finding a cover designer The teachers who inspire us to write Finding community with other writers Period Poverty Why having a good editor is so important Links and Resources: Peaker Writers My Peak Challenge University of Wisconsin-Green Bay Friends of JAMS Northern Illinois University Artist Pascal Campion Revise & Resub University of Detroit-Mercy Outlander by Diana Gabaldon Find Ami Irmen: Website Twitter LinkedIn Instagram Blog If you enjoyed this episode, you’ll like these other Make Meaning Podcast episodes: Episode 145- CL Walters - Young Adult & New Adult Fiction from Hawai’i Episode 142 – Announcing Scotia Road Books Episode 136 - Tammy Pasterick - Writing & Publishing Your Way Episode 113 – Ramona Pintea – How to Make Art a Path for Serving Others Episode 107 – The Hon. Jan Tinetti – How to Eliminate Period Poverty

Rochelle Weinstein is a successful and talented author known for her emotionally charged novels. After leaving a career in the music industry in 2000, she started writing and has produced eight novels, with the latest coming out on Oct. 20th. Rochelle's writing explores topical issues and draws inspiration from her own experiences and emotions. What’s more, she is a leading example of generosity, camaraderie and community in the world of women’s fiction! In the latest episode of the Make Meaning Podcast, host Lynne Golodner interviews Rochelle about how and why, after two wildly successful self-published books, she landed an agent and publishing contract that is still going strong. They discuss hitting bestseller status by trusting instincts, Rochelle’s writing process, where she finds inspiration (real-life emotions, timely, topical subjects, and places she loves) and the impact of platforms like TikTok. In this episode, Lynne and Rochelle discuss: Why being a voracious reader makes you a better writer Launching a writing career while raising twin sons Why every book publishing story is unique The importance of a strong, professionally-edited self-published book The shift from self-publishing to finding an agent Inspiration for book ideas Plotter vs. Pantser Rochelle's role as a book influencer Changes in the publishing industry The importance of supporting other authors How AI is affecting authors The importance of having a writing community & support system Rochelle's vision for her writing future Advice for aspiring writers Links and Resources: Danielle Steele Sidney Sheldon Judy Blume What We Leave Behind The Mourning After Merle Saferstein Where We Fall Lake Union Publishing Somebody's Daughter Publishers Marketplace USA Today Bestseller List GSD - Glycogen storage diseases What You Do To Me Woman of Valor NBC 6 South Florida Barbara Bos, Women Writers, Women’s Books Jen Herrera Lauren Margolin, Good Book Fairy Jamie Rosenblit Renee's Reading Club Zibby Owens Connie Ogle Edinburgh Writers Museum Miami Book Fair Colleen Hoover BookTok Camille Di Maio Samantha Greene Woodruff Lisa Barr Find Rochelle Weinstein: Website Facebook Twitter Instagram If you enjoyed this episode, you’ll like these other Make Meaning Podcast episodes: Episode 135 – Camille Pagan – Making Writing Your Career Episode 131 – Weina Randel – The Last Rose of Shanghai Episode 130 – Merle Saferstein – Journaling & Legacy Episode 128 – Becky Robinson – Building Reach for Books Episode 127 – Ly Tran – Writing Unapologetically

As a child in Richmond, Virginia, Lisa Peers was introduced to writing by her mother, who was also a writer who invited her young daughter to play with her typewriter. Still, Lisa began her career in theater and only later pursued writing in a professional capacity. She shares how acting shapes her writing process and helps her build authentic dialogue, which is a strength of Lisa’s new novel, Love at 350°. This gorgeous story features 40something characters challenging the norms of the romantic comedy genre. In the latest episode of the Make Meaning Podcast, host Lynne Golodner interviews Lisa about her journey from acting to writing, the process of finding an agent and publisher, and the importance of writing books you want to read. In this episode, Lynne and Lisa discuss: Building a body of work People who inspire us to write How other passions/hobbies influence writing Finding the right writer’s group for you No one way for a book to come to life Creating compelling characters The power of manifestation Finding agents - right time + right place Publishers looking for diverse stories (plus-size, LGBTQ, etc.) How to weather shifting editors and their changing perspectives Publishing trends Links and Resources: True Romance Love and Other B-Sides Irving Berlin Cole Porter George Gershwin The Golden Oldies Punk Era The myth of Psyche and Eros Eros & Psyche Love at 350° Woman of Valor Tracy Gardner Beno Hallmark The Dial Press Find Lisa Peers: Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Instagram If you enjoyed this episode, you’ll like these other Make Meaning Podcast episodes: Episode 143 – Annie Cathryn – Dreams Come True: The Friendship Breakup Episode 136 – Tammy Pasterick – Writing & Publishing Your Way Episode 118 – Elizabeth Gowing – How to Know a Place by Living its Stories Episode 14 – Heather Leavitt – An Artful Path

Lynne Golodner first met Anne-Marie Oomen at Goddard College, where Lynne was beginning her MFA in Writing and Anne-Marie was graduating. A fellow Michigan resident who calls the forests and hills of the Lake Michigan shores her home, Anne-Marie serves on the board of Michigan Writers where Lynne is now in charge of Marketing. In this episode of the Make Meaning Podcast, host Lynne Golodner chats with Anne-Marie about teaching in the Solstice MFA program at LaSalle University and at Interlochen Center for the Arts, the backstory for As Long as I Know You: the Mom Book - which won the Sue William Silverman Prize for Creative Nonfiction - and honing your own voice. In this episode, Lynne and Anne-Marie discuss: Family relationships The power of observation and journaling Writing routine Imitating to find your voice Writing communities The Old Testament Links and Resources: Grimm’s Fairy Tales Big Magic by Elizabeth Gilbert Michigan Humanities Council Pulling Down the Barn Wayne State University Press Michigan Notable Book Award Michigan Writers Dunes Review Chapbook Content Submittable AWP Award Find Anne-Marie Oomen: Website Facebook Twitter Instagram Blog If you enjoyed this episode, you’ll like these other Make Meaning Podcast episodes: Episode 141 - Tom Sleigh - a Lifetime of Poetry Episode 137 - Christopher P. Locke - Breathtaking Essays & Stories Episode 133 - Sara Henning - Poetry about Loss and Redemption Episode 129 - Rosina Lippi - Author of the Wilderness Series Episode 122 - Valoree Gagnon and Karena Schmidt - on the Food & Culture of Indigenous Gardens

A Super Special Episode: Lynne Golodner discusses her debut novel! Writer, Washtenaw County Commissioner, Nurse and Friend Extraordinaire Katie Scott takes the mic on this episode to interview Make Meaning host Lynne Golodner about the release of her ninth book and debut novel, Woman of Valor. Lynne and Katie met in a writing course in the 1990s and are more like sisters than friends. In this episode of the Make Meaning Podcast, host Lynne Golodner finds herself on the other side of the interview as Katie asks about the journey behind Woman of Valor, which releases September 26, 2023. In this episode, Lynne and Katie discuss: Building the main character, Sally Deciding on POV The role of cooking and food in the book The process of writing a novel Plotters vs Pantsers Jewish traditions and tensions within the story Choosing critique partners Finding a writers community The creation of Scotia Road Books Links and Resources: Woman of Valor Gefilte Fish Save the Cat Beat Sheets Book Coaching Writer Retreats Women of Valor Virtual Book Launch Find Lynne Golodner: Website Instagram Facebook LinkedIn Twitter If you enjoyed this episode, you’ll like these other Make Meaning Podcast episodes: Episode 132 - Merryn Glover - Literary Fiction About Place Episode 82 - Jessica McCormick - Envisioning a New Type of Jewish Community Episode 48 - the NFHS Reunion Episode Episode 40 - Lynne Golodner - The Message Matters Episode 1 - Norman Cohn - the Best Business Advisor

Diane Gottlieb champions midlife women while telling her own provocative, riveting stories for publications like River Teeth, HuffPost, and SmokeLong Quarterly. Winner of the Tiferet 2021 Writing Contest and a finalist in SmokeLong Grand Micro Contest 2022, Diane has three master’s degrees and serves as editor of Awakenings: Stories of Body and Consciousness and prose/creative nonfiction editor of Emerge Literary Journal. In this episode of the Make Meaning Podcast, host Lynne Golodner chats with Diane about her passion for writing, her dedication to empowering the voices of midlife women and her journey to becoming known in the literary community. In this episode, Lynne and Diane discuss: Creating community Winning writing awards How editing helps your own writing Curating content How writing styles change over time Diane’s book projects The power of revision How to know when a piece is finished Social Media Marketing Links and Resources: Woman Pause Author Brand Marketing Mastermind ​​Lunch Ticket Literary Journal Christopher P. Locke Scotia Road Books Writing Coaching Find Diane Gottlieb: Website Facebook Twitter Instagram LinkedIn Blog If you enjoyed this episode, you’ll like these other Make Meaning Podcast episodes: Episode 137 - Christopher P. Locke - Breathtaking Stories & Essays Episode 127 - Ly Tran - Writing Unapologetically Episode 117 - Steve Wingate - How to Find Your Voice Again and Again Episode 107 - The Hon. Jan Tinetti - How to Eliminate Period Poverty Episode 73 - Jim Reese - Why Teaching Writing in Prisons Helps Everybody

Barbara Stark-Nemon takes her time writing historical fiction, tracing the paths her characters walked and lived. The author of award-winning novels, Barbara turned to writing after retiring from a successful career. In this episode of the Make Meaning Podcast, host Lynne Golodner chats with Barbara about her passion for writing and her experiences speaking at conferences, literary events, libraries and book clubs. A University of Michigan alumnus, Barbara has two published novels - Even in Darkness and Hard Cider - and is at work on a coming-of-age refugee story set in the aftermath of the Inquisition. In this episode, Lynne and Barbara discuss: How to build ideas into books Hybrid publishing How many books you need to sell to be “successful” Whether to invest in publicity Finding writer friends and critique groups Links and Resources: The Women’s Fiction Writers Association Lynne’s Classes She Writes Press Brooke Warner Scotia Road Books Find Barbara Stark-Nemon: Website Twitter Instagram Facebook LinkedIn Blog If you enjoyed this episode, you’ll like these other Make Meaning Podcast episodes: Episode 129 - Rosina Lippi - Author of the Wilderness Series Episode 102 - Patrick Hicks - How to Write Historical Fiction Episode 80- Iris Lee Underwood, Lavender Farmer, Author, Descendant of the McCoys of Appalachia Episode 48 - Arthur, Ross, Jason, Steve, Shelli & Jeffrey - the NFHS Reunion Episode, 30 Years after Graduation Episode 44 - Kirstin Karoub, Lynne Golodner & Norman Cohn - Celebrating One Year of the Make Meaning Podcast