29. From Angus Kid to Managing Editor: Building a Writing Career in Agriculture with Megan Silveira

She knew she wanted to go to Oklahoma State University when she was seven years old. She applied nowhere else. And somehow, the girl from Turlock, California who loved English class and Angus cattle ended up exactly where she was supposed to be - managing editor of the Angus Journal in St. Joseph, Missouri, six years and counting. Megan Silveira is one of those people who makes it look easy, but this episode pulls back the curtain on what it actually takes to build a career in agricultural journalism including: the interview prep, the unglamorous office work, the AP style rules she once resented and now swears by, and the secret novel series she published on Amazon without telling a single soul, including her mom. Whether you're an aspiring writer, a creative trying to find your lane, or someone who just wants to hear how one of ag's best storytellers thinks — this one's for you. In this episode, we cover: Growing up in Turlock, California as an Angus kid and knowing OSU was the only option Taking the leap to move across the country at 17 — and what convinced her parents it would be okay Applying to every summer internship and hearing back from exactly one: Angus Media Why the worst they can say is no — and how to get comfortable with that What Megan looks for when interviewing interns for the Angus Media editorial position The interview process from start to finish: prep, field time, the formal sit-down, and when to call back How she knows when she's actually getting a good story versus when to change tactics Adding video to editorial work — how it changes the interview game Her photography philosophy and what makes a great Angus Journal cover The difference between writing a feature story and a technical story — and why both matter Learning AP style, resenting it, and then realizing it made her a better, more creative writer The most monotonous part of her job — and why she shows up for it anyway Her surprise novel series, the Jaded Hearts, that she published on Amazon without telling anyone Why self-publishing on Kindle Direct is shockingly simple and why more people should try it Finding the one thing you care about most and never stopping chasing it Connect with Megan: Instagram & socials: Megan Silveira Work portfolio: angusjournal.net Books: Search Jaded Hearts series on Amazon & Kindle Work email: Available via angusjournal.net Books & Resources Mentioned: Anxious People by Fredrik Backman (recommended by Anna Miller) We Do Have the Angus Conversation Podcast Kindle Direct Publishing (for aspiring authors) AP Stylebook