Holly Kolb: The Courage to Be Vulnerable in Writing

Podcast: Verses & Visions: Creative ConversationsHolly Kolb: The Courage to Be Vulnerable in WritingWhat does it really take to share your writing with the world? In this episode of Verses & Visions: Creative Conversations, host Cassidy Beck sits down with editor, writing coach, and co-owner of Merry Robin Publishing, Holly Kolb. Holly works closely with authors to help shape their manuscripts into meaningful stories, and through that work, she has gained a deep appreciation for the courage and vulnerability required to write honestly.Holly shares her journey from studying English literature and book history to living internationally in the United Kingdom and Germany, experiences that reshaped her understanding of identity, empathy, and creativity. She reflects on the challenges of navigating life in a different language and culture and how those experiences have deepened her ability to connect with others.Together, Cassidy and Holly explore the role of editors as facilitators of creative vision, the courage it takes for writers to share unfinished work, and why vulnerability is often the very thing that makes writing powerful. Holly also discusses how balancing multiple roles—as a mother, teacher, conference manager, and editor—has taught her to trust that each season of life brings different priorities and opportunities to serve.Key Topics DiscussedHolly’s path from English literature student to editor, writing coach, and co-owner of Merry Robin PublishingHow living internationally shaped her perspective on identity, empathy, and creativityThe emotional and vulnerable nature of sharing writing with othersWhy editors play an essential role in shaping and strengthening a manuscriptThe courage required for writers to share their authentic voiceBalancing multiple roles and responsibilities while pursuing meaningful workTrusting that different seasons of life require different prioritiesPersonal TakeawayOne of the most powerful insights from this conversation is Holly’s reminder that vulnerability and courage go hand in hand. Writing honestly—whether in fiction, essays, or personal storytelling—requires authors to put something deeply personal on the page. Yet that vulnerability is often what allows readers to connect most deeply with a story.Holly’s perspective as an editor highlights how collaboration can strengthen creative work. When writers are willing to share their imperfect drafts and trust the process, their stories often become stronger, clearer, and more impactful.Resources & LinksMerry Robin PublishingLDSPMA (Latter-day Saint Publishing, Media & the Arts)Books mentioned in the episode: Theo of Golden by Allen LeviSponsor ShoutoutThis episode is sponsored by Sheep Chronicles: Baptism, a children’s book written by Cassidy Beck.In this heartwarming story, a curious boy named Joshua learns about baptism through the parable of a sheep named Shannon shared by his wise grandfather. Sheep Chronicles: Baptism invites families to explore gospel principles together through storytelling and meaningful conversation.SodaBeers – Premium, craft sodas made with love. Whether you’re celebrating a moment or enjoying a quiet afternoon, SodaBeers delivers naturally crafted, flavorful sodas that refresh your body and spirit. Support this family-owned brand and sip with joy!Connect with the GuestHolly KolbCo-owner, Merry Robin PublishingConference Manager for LDSPMAInstructor at BYU and UVUConnect with the HostCassidy BeckHost of Verses & Visions: Creative ConversationsWebsite: Sage Verse Publishing