If It Feels Not Normal, It’s Probably Not: Ask Beth & Lisa

Episode Summary: In this candid "Ask B&L" episode, Beth and Lisa answer a listener question about agent transparency, diving into the red flags of a rocky publishing relationship. They also unpack book coaching, revising habits, and finding sanity as a writer in uncertain times.Guest Bio: No guest this episode – just your favorite duo, Beth McMullen and Lisa Schmid, authors and co-hosts of Writers With Wrinkles.Key Discussion Points:The value of disconnecting: Beth shares her experience of mentally unplugging and how it relates to mindfulness and creativity.Book coaching launch: Beth introduces her new professional book coaching services and website BethMcMullenBooks.com, highlighting offerings like manuscript feedback and query letter Quick Wins.Listener Q&A: A writer asks if it's normal for an agent to never share a submission list—spoiler: it's not. Beth and Lisa stress the importance of communication, red flag awareness, and using organizations like SCBWI and Authors Guild for support.Agent dynamics: The hosts discuss how writers can (and should) advocate for themselves and treat agent relationships as business partnerships.Writing advice: The age-old “edit-as-you-go” dilemma resurfaces, with encouragement to push through messy first drafts instead of polishing prematurely.Podcast behind-the-scenes: From sunglasses in their logo to sound editing quirks, Beth and Lisa reflect on their origin story and podcast process.Podcast love: Lisa shouts out her appearance on Middle Grade Matters with Shannon Ballam—praised for her smooth delivery and sharp interviews. Listen here: Middle Grade Matters (link to be added in show notes).Conclusion: From industry tips to emotional honesty, this episode is a warm, funny, and information-packed check-in with Beth and Lisa. Writers like Luna—aspiring, overwhelmed, and determined—will find comfort and guidance in their down-to-earth advice and hard-won experience. Don’t forget to visit WritersWithWrinkles.net to support the show, explore past episodes, and join the writing community.Send us Fan Mail Support the showVisit the WebsiteFind Full Episodes on YouTube!Writers with Wrinkles Link Tree for socials and more!