The Page & Podium Podcast with Dr. Amanda Nell Edgar

After years of working with writers and crafting memoirs ourselves, we’ve learned what truly helps authors move from inspiration to a finished book. At Page & Podium Press, our goal is to demystify the writing process and make memoir feel possible for every writer who feels called to tell their story. This week, we’re breaking down the foundational philosophy behind our work and behind The Memoir Method™. 🔗 You've got the story. You've got the idea. You just don't know the steps in the process. If this is what's holding your memoir back, I have got the solution for you. The memoir method checklist is going to take you through every single step you need from idea to published marketable book. You can download it now at pageandpodium.com/checklist. 📅 New videos every Tuesday - subscribe and never miss an update! Timestamps: 0:00-Intro 2:35 Philosophical pairs 3:07 Art vs craft 8:23 Freedom vs constraint 11:36 Process vs product 16:08 Behind the scenes 16:40 Pillars of support 17:21 Education 22:45 Accountability 24:26 Community 29:11 What you can expect 👉 **Follow Us:** - **LinkedIn:** [Page and Podium Press](https://www.linkedin.com/company/page-and-podium-press/) - **Facebook:** [Page and Podium Press](https://www.facebook.com/pageandpodiumpress) - **Instagram:** [@pageandpodiumpress](https://www.instagram.com/pageandpodiumpress/) 🎵 Music I Use: Bensound License code: FZ3LM4DGUTQYKAES Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more writing tips and strategies. See you next Tuesday! Hashtags: #WritingTips #FirstTimeAuthors #ManuscriptRevision #BookWriting #AuthorAdvice #PageAndPodiumPress #memoirwriting #memoir #journal

So many writers feel like they’re slogging through mud—not because they lack ideas, but because they’re buried under decisions about structure, scope, and what a memoir is “supposed” to be. With endless advice available and no clear way to apply it, progress can feel impossible. Today we’re breaking down why writers get stuck, how to recognize whether you’re suffering from option overload or constraint scarcity, and the key question that brings clarity when everything feels murky. 🔗 You've got the story. You've got the idea. You just don't know the steps in the process. If this is what's holding your memoir back, I have got the solution for you. The memoir method checklist is going to take you through every single step you need from idea to published marketable book. You can download it now at pageandpodium.com/checklist. 📅 New videos every Tuesday - subscribe and never miss an update! Timestamps: 0:00-Intro 4:10 "Do I need more constraints? Or do I need more freedom?" 4:50 What we mean by constraints vs freedom 5:30 How constraints are useful 7:27 Freedom is crucial 15:05 Examples 👉 **Follow Us:** - **LinkedIn:** [Page and Podium Press](https://www.linkedin.com/company/page-and-podium-press/) - **Facebook:** [Page and Podium Press](https://www.facebook.com/pageandpodiumpress) - **Instagram:** [@pageandpodiumpress](https://www.instagram.com/pageandpodiumpress/) 🎵 Music I Use: Bensound License code: FZ3LM4DGUTQYKAES Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more writing tips and strategies. See you next Tuesday! Hashtags: #WritingTips #FirstTimeAuthors #ManuscriptRevision #BookWriting #AuthorAdvice #PageAndPodiumPress #memoirwriting #memoir #journal

Writing a memoir is a huge undertaking, and one of the earliest hurdles many first time authors face is figuring out how long the process should take. With flashy programs promising a finished book in weeks and horror stories of drafts dragging on for years, it’s easy to feel pressure from both directions. But rushing your memoir often slows you down — especially if you care about producing a thoughtful, high quality manuscript. In this episode, we’re breaking down ten reasons why giving yourself time is the smartest, most sustainable way to actually finish your book. 🔗 You've got the story. You've got the idea. You just don't know the steps in the process. If this is what's holding your memoir back, I have got the solution for you. The memoir method checklist is going to take you through every single step you need from idea to published marketable book. You can download it now at pageandpodium.com/checklist. 📅 New videos every Tuesday - subscribe and never miss an update! Timestamps: 0:00-Intro 5:00 - Creativity suffers 6:27 - Forced stops 9:19 - Problem-solving takes time 11:39 - Taking your time saves money (and time) 13:49 Writing is more than word production 16:19 Rushing undermines the reader's experience 18:09 safety, not speed, fuels writing 21:07 Deferring decisions makes them stack up 23:35 Rushing invites short cuts 25:23 Urgency closes the door on insight 👉 **Follow Us:** - **LinkedIn:** [Page and Podium Press](https://www.linkedin.com/company/page-and-podium-press/) - **Facebook:** [Page and Podium Press](https://www.facebook.com/pageandpodiumpress) - **Instagram:** [@pageandpodiumpress](https://www.instagram.com/pageandpodiumpress/) 🎵 Music I Use: Bensound License code: FZ3LM4DGUTQYKAES Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more writing tips and strategies. See you next Tuesday! Hashtags: #WritingTips #FirstTimeAuthors #ManuscriptRevision #BookWriting #AuthorAdvice #PageAndPodiumPress #memoirwriting #memoir #journal

Writers are often told, “It should be as long as it needs to be,” but that well meaning advice can leave first time authors wandering in the dark. How can you know what a book “needs” before you’ve written it, and what happens when you ignore the expectations of readers and the realities of publishing? In this episode, we’re breaking down why constraints are not the enemy of creativity—they’re the guiderails that help you move forward with confidence. We’ll explore how to think about target book length and share five practical tips for keeping word count in mind while drafting. 🔗 You've got the story. You've got the idea. You just don't know the steps in the process. If this is what's holding your memoir back, I have got the solution for you. The memoir method checklist is going to take you through every single step you need from idea to published marketable book. You can download it now at pageandpodium.com/checklist. 📅 New videos every Tuesday - subscribe and never miss an update! Timestamps: 0:00-Intro 11:31 Industry's Conventions 16:45 Ranges by genre 23:43 The Benefits of Helpful Constraints 👉 **Follow Us:** - **LinkedIn:** [Page and Podium Press](https://www.linkedin.com/company/page-and-podium-press/) - **Facebook:** [Page and Podium Press](https://www.facebook.com/pageandpodiumpress) - **Instagram:** [@pageandpodiumpress](https://www.instagram.com/pageandpodiumpress/) 🎵 Music I Use: Bensound License code: FZ3LM4DGUTQYKAES Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more writing tips and strategies. See you next Tuesday! Hashtags: #WritingTips #FirstTimeAuthors #ManuscriptRevision #BookWriting #AuthorAdvice #PageAndPodiumPress #memoirwriting #memoir #journal

If you’ve been with us for a while, you know we’re unapologetic structure queens—because a strong narrative spine is one of the most essential elements of a successful memoir. But structure doesn’t mean sameness. In this episode, we dig into how memoirists can honor the craft of clear, intentional structure while still bending expectations, experimenting with form, and weaving in creative twists that make a book unforgettable. Inside our Memoir Method program, we built flexibility right into the process, and today we’re showing you how to do the same in your own work. 🔗 You've got the story. You've got the idea. You just don't know the steps in the process. If this is what's holding your memoir back, I have got the solution for you. The memoir method checklist is going to take you through every single step you need from idea to published marketable book. You can download it now at pageandpodium.com/checklist. 📅 New videos every Tuesday - subscribe and never miss an update! Timestamps: 0:00-Intro 3:17 Epistolary 5:15 Narrative cookbook versus "memoir with recipes" 12:15 Visible versus invisible structures 13:02 "Memoir in Essays" 👉 **Follow Us:** - **LinkedIn:** [Page and Podium Press](https://www.linkedin.com/company/page-and-podium-press/) - **Facebook:** [Page and Podium Press](https://www.facebook.com/pageandpodiumpress) - **Instagram:** [@pageandpodiumpress](https://www.instagram.com/pageandpodiumpress/) 🎵 Music I Use: Bensound License code: FZ3LM4DGUTQYKAES Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more writing tips and strategies. See you next Tuesday! Hashtags: #WritingTips #FirstTimeAuthors #ManuscriptRevision #BookWriting #AuthorAdvice #PageAndPodiumPress #memoirwriting #memoir #journal

Writing a book isn’t a straight shot from idea to finished manuscript—it’s a long, creative journey filled with pauses, slowdowns, and moments that feel like a full stop. This episode breaks down why those pauses are not only normal but essential, how to recognize the different kinds of slowdowns, and how to return to your project with clarity instead of shame. If you’ve ever worried that a break meant you’d lost your momentum, this conversation will help you see pauses as part of the process—not the end of it. 🔗 You've got the story. You've got the idea. You just don't know the steps in the process. If this is what's holding your memoir back, I have got the solution for you. The memoir method checklist is going to take you through every single step you need from idea to published marketable book. You can download it now at pageandpodium.com/checklist. 📅 New videos every Tuesday - subscribe and never miss an update! Timestamps: 0:00-Intro 5:20- Three Kinds of Pauses 19:18- Pausing is normal and healthy 20:01 - Pauses can solve sticky problems 26:45 - Plan your next session before you stop 29:46 - Let your anger go outward 33:24 - Resist diverting to a new project 35:55 - Celebrate wins 👉 **Follow Us:** - **LinkedIn:** [Page and Podium Press](https://www.linkedin.com/company/page-and-podium-press/) - **Facebook:** [Page and Podium Press](https://www.facebook.com/pageandpodiumpress) - **Instagram:** [@pageandpodiumpress](https://www.instagram.com/pageandpodiumpress/) 🎵 Music I Use: Bensound License code: FZ3LM4DGUTQYKAES Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more writing tips and strategies. See you next Tuesday! Hashtags: #WritingTips #FirstTimeAuthors #ManuscriptRevision #BookWriting #AuthorAdvice #PageAndPodiumPress #memoirwriting #memoir #journal

Every writer knows the intoxicating feeling of a memoir idea that seems complete before a single word is written. But once you start drafting, the shine fades, the path blurs, and the story that felt so clear becomes slippery. It’s tempting to skip outlining altogether, convinced it will box in your creativity. Today we’re unpacking that myth, exploring why inspiration alone can’t carry a full manuscript, and answering the big question: does your memoir really need an outline to succeed? 🔗 You've got the story. You've got the idea. You just don't know the steps in the process. If this is what's holding your memoir back, I have got the solution for you. The memoir method checklist is going to take you through every single step you need from idea to published marketable book. You can download it now at pageandpodium.com/checklist. 📅 New videos every Tuesday - subscribe and never miss an update! Timestamps: 0:00-Intro 3:54 - First reason: You're not making steady progress 17:20 -Second reason: middles are hard 19:50 -Third reason: Your book is ballooning long or sketch-short 24:40 - Fourth reason: Aimless and without a clear point 👉 **Follow Us:** - **LinkedIn:** [Page and Podium Press](https://www.linkedin.com/company/page-and-podium-press/) - **Facebook:** [Page and Podium Press](https://www.facebook.com/pageandpodiumpress) - **Instagram:** [@pageandpodiumpress](https://www.instagram.com/pageandpodiumpress/) 🎵 Music I Use: Bensound License code: FZ3LM4DGUTQYKAES Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more writing tips and strategies. See you next Tuesday! Hashtags: #WritingTips #FirstTimeAuthors #ManuscriptRevision #BookWriting #AuthorAdvice #PageAndPodiumPress #memoirwriting #memoir #journal

Writing vivid scenes in memoir can feel like walking a tightrope: you want the immediacy and sensory richness of fiction, but you’re working with the famously unreliable material of human memory. Many writers panic over the details they can’t recall perfectly, worrying that anything less than total accuracy is a betrayal of the truth. In this episode, we unpack why perfect recall isn’t the goal, how to balance honesty with narrative vividness, and five practical strategies to help you write—and finish—your memoir with confidence. 🔗 You've got the story. You've got the idea. You just don't know the steps in the process. If this is what's holding your memoir back, I have got the solution for you. The memoir method checklist is going to take you through every single step you need from idea to published marketable book. You can download it now at pageandpodium.com/checklist. 📅 New videos every Tuesday - subscribe and never miss an update! Timestamps: 0:00-Intro 4:15- Readers care more about truth than facts 13:07- Smart research 17:07 - Brainstorm 19:13 -Free write 21:43- Consider if the scene needs to be a scene 👉 **Follow Us:** - **LinkedIn:** [Page and Podium Press](https://www.linkedin.com/company/page-and-podium-press/) - **Facebook:** [Page and Podium Press](https://www.facebook.com/pageandpodiumpress) - **Instagram:** [@pageandpodiumpress](https://www.instagram.com/pageandpodiumpress/) 🎵 Music I Use: Bensound License code: FZ3LM4DGUTQYKAES Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more writing tips and strategies. See you next Tuesday! Hashtags: #WritingTips #FirstTimeAuthors #ManuscriptRevision #BookWriting #AuthorAdvice #PageAndPodiumPress #memoirwriting #memoir #journal

Memoirists face a unique challenge: our lives offer endless beginnings, but endings can be elusive. Your memoir’s bookends aren’t determined by your lifespan—they’re defined by the arc of the topic you’re exploring and the transformation it brings. But what if you’re still living through the final chapters? Today’s conversation digs into how to choose your starting point, how to think about endings that haven’t arrived, and how to begin writing your memoir right now, even if the resolution is still ahead of you. 🔗 You've got the story. You've got the idea. You just don't know the steps in the process. If this is what's holding your memoir back, I have got the solution for you. The memoir method checklist is going to take you through every single step you need from idea to published marketable book. You can download it now at pageandpodium.com/checklist. 📅 New videos every Tuesday - subscribe and never miss an update! Timestamps: 0:00-Intro 4:00- Lean into Process 7:50- Honor the urge to start 11:00- Focus on message 15:30- Play with structure 19:00- Growth, not Victory 22:40- No drafting process is perfect 👉 **Follow Us:** - **LinkedIn:** [Page and Podium Press](https://www.linkedin.com/company/page-and-podium-press/) - **Facebook:** [Page and Podium Press](https://www.facebook.com/pageandpodiumpress) - **Instagram:** [@pageandpodiumpress](https://www.instagram.com/pageandpodiumpress/) 🎵 Music I Use: Bensound License code: FZ3LM4DGUTQYKAES Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more writing tips and strategies. See you next Tuesday! Hashtags: #WritingTips #FirstTimeAuthors #ManuscriptRevision #BookWriting #AuthorAdvice #PageAndPodiumPress #memoirwriting #memoir #journal

So many writers hesitate to start because they’re convinced everyone else knows the “real rules” of writing—rules they somehow missed. That fear often comes from school, where we were taught that mastery comes after learning a tidy list of dos and don’ts. But creative work doesn’t operate that way. In fact, many writing “rules” are oversimplified, outdated, or so broadly applied that they do more harm than good. In this episode, we’re breaking down five common writing rules that deserve a graceful retirement. 🔗 You've got the story. You've got the idea. You just don't know the steps in the process. If this is what's holding your memoir back, I have got the solution for you. The memoir method checklist is going to take you through every single step you need from idea to published marketable book. You can download it now at pageandpodium.com/checklist. 📅 New videos every Tuesday - subscribe and never miss an update! Timestamps: 0:00-Intro 8:47 - The Hero's Journey 12:28 - Wait for Inspiration 18:59 - Show, Don't Tell 24:07 - English-class Grammar 26:25 - Trad or bust 👉 **Follow Us:** - **LinkedIn:** [Page and Podium Press](https://www.linkedin.com/company/page-and-podium-press/) - **Facebook:** [Page and Podium Press](https://www.facebook.com/pageandpodiumpress) - **Instagram:** [@pageandpodiumpress](https://www.instagram.com/pageandpodiumpress/) 🎵 Music I Use: Bensound License code: FZ3LM4DGUTQYKAES Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more writing tips and strategies. See you next Tuesday! Hashtags: #WritingTips #FirstTimeAuthors #ManuscriptRevision #BookWriting #AuthorAdvice #PageAndPodiumPress #memoirwriting #memoir #journal

An outline isn’t a boring pre draft chore—it’s the backbone that keeps your memoir from collapsing under the weight of endless pages or endless restarts. In this episode, we dig into why outlining is the most powerful antidote to two of the biggest memoir killers: lack of structure and perpetual puttering. You’ll learn how a solid outline becomes both the spine of your book and the map that keeps you moving forward, no roman numerals required—just a clear understanding of what an outline is for and how it supports your writing momentum. 🔗 You've got the story. You've got the idea. You just don't know the steps in the process. If this is what's holding your memoir back, I have got the solution for you. The memoir method checklist is going to take you through every single step you need from idea to published marketable book. You can download it now at pageandpodium.com/checklist. 📅 New videos every Tuesday - subscribe and never miss an update! Timestamps: 0:00-Intro 6:26 - Working title 8:02 - Topic 9:53 - Message 12:18 - Skeleton outline 13:10 - Chapter Breakdown 21:01 - Getting feedback 👉 **Follow Us:** - **LinkedIn:** [Page and Podium Press](https://www.linkedin.com/company/page-and-podium-press/) - **Facebook:** [Page and Podium Press](https://www.facebook.com/pageandpodiumpress) - **Instagram:** [@pageandpodiumpress](https://www.instagram.com/pageandpodiumpress/) 🎵 Music I Use: Bensound License code: FZ3LM4DGUTQYKAES Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more writing tips and strategies. See you next Tuesday! Hashtags: #WritingTips #FirstTimeAuthors #ManuscriptRevision #BookWriting #AuthorAdvice #PageAndPodiumPress #memoirwriting #memoir #journal

A polished, professional book doesn’t happen by accident, but it doesn’t require a traditional publishing deal, either. As more authors bring their work to market independently, the old assumptions about what counts as “real” publishing are quickly fading. Today’s self published books can match the quality of major houses, and readers are responding with the same loyalty and excitement. In this conversation, we’re exploring the myths that keep writers from considering self publishing and walking through the essential steps to produce a book you can be proud of. 🔗 You've got the story. You've got the idea. You just don't know the steps in the process. If this is what's holding your memoir back, I have got the solution for you. The memoir method checklist is going to take you through every single step you need from idea to published marketable book. You can download it now at pageandpodium.com/checklist. 📅 New videos every Tuesday - subscribe and never miss an update! Timestamps: 0:00-Intro 1:30- Reaching for quality 4:00- Publishing Paths 5:30- Fears about self-publishing 12:10- Research components 17:34- Setting a plan with dates 21:20- Balance cohesion and the details 23:50- Form your own imprint 26:390 Publish across multiple platforms 👉 **Follow Us:** - **LinkedIn:** [Page and Podium Press](https://www.linkedin.com/company/page-and-podium-press/) - **Facebook:** [Page and Podium Press](https://www.facebook.com/pageandpodiumpress) - **Instagram:** [@pageandpodiumpress](https://www.instagram.com/pageandpodiumpress/) 🎵 Music I Use: Bensound License code: FZ3LM4DGUTQYKAES Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more writing tips and strategies. See you next Tuesday! Hashtags: #WritingTips #FirstTimeAuthors #ManuscriptRevision #BookWriting #AuthorAdvice #PageAndPodiumPress #memoirwriting #memoir #journal

We talk a lot about “gatekeepers” in publishing—agents, editors, critics, readers—but the most powerful one is often the person staring back at you in the mirror. In this episode, we explore how writers unintentionally block their own progress by judging their ideas, their voice, and their worthiness long before anyone else ever sees their work. If you’ve ever felt like you’re standing in your own way, this conversation offers four essential questions to help you recognize and dismantle your inner gatekeeper. 🔗 You've got the story. You've got the idea. You just don't know the steps in the process. If this is what's holding your memoir back, I have got the solution for you. The memoir method checklist is going to take you through every single step you need from idea to published marketable book. You can download it now at pageandpodium.com/checklist. 📅 New videos every Tuesday - subscribe and never miss an update! Timestamps: 0:00-Intro 7:19 - Are you comparing your first draft to someone's polished and published book? 9:43 - What scares you about publishing? 11:55- Are you jealous when others publish? 15:05 - Who will you be when the book is finished? 👉 **Follow Us:** - **LinkedIn:** [Page and Podium Press](https://www.linkedin.com/company/page-and-podium-press/) - **Facebook:** [Page and Podium Press](https://www.facebook.com/pageandpodiumpress) - **Instagram:** [@pageandpodiumpress](https://www.instagram.com/pageandpodiumpress/) 🎵 Music I Use: Bensound License code: FZ3LM4DGUTQYKAES Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more writing tips and strategies. See you next Tuesday! Hashtags: #WritingTips #FirstTimeAuthors #ManuscriptRevision #BookWriting #AuthorAdvice #PageAndPodiumPress #memoirwriting #memoir #journal

Writing a memoir isn’t about waiting for the perfect stretch of free time. It’s about building a writing rhythm that fits your real life. In this episode, we dig into why “write every day” is often unrealistic, why relying on rare big blocks of time keeps you stuck, and how to create a sustainable routine that actually supports finishing your book. If you’ve struggled to stay consistent, this conversation will help you rethink what a writing practice can look like. 🔗 You've got the story. You've got the idea. You just don't know the steps in the process. If this is what's holding your memoir back, I have got the solution for you. The memoir method checklist is going to take you through every single step you need from idea to published marketable book. You can download it now at pageandpodium.com/checklist. 📅 New videos every Tuesday - subscribe and never miss an update! Timestamps: 0:00-Intro 6:45- Connect Writing with something already in your routine 12:43- Don't copy other timetables 15:37- Create a chain effect 19:40- Make a full book plan 22:31- Do not punish yourself 👉 **Follow Us:** - **LinkedIn:** [Page and Podium Press](https://www.linkedin.com/company/page-and-podium-press/) - **Facebook:** [Page and Podium Press](https://www.facebook.com/pageandpodiumpress) - **Instagram:** [@pageandpodiumpress](https://www.instagram.com/pageandpodiumpress/) 🎵 Music I Use: Bensound License code: FZ3LM4DGUTQYKAES Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more writing tips and strategies. See you next Tuesday! Hashtags: #WritingTips #FirstTimeAuthors #ManuscriptRevision #BookWriting #AuthorAdvice #PageAndPodiumPress #memoirwriting #memoir #journal

If you’ve ever stumbled through the question “What’s your memoir about?” you’re not alone. Even though memoir springs from lived experience, you can’t—and shouldn’t—try to fit your whole life into one book. Instead, choosing a clear central topic helps you focus, refine your message, and create a more powerful reading experience. Today’s conversation explores three essential reasons to define your memoir’s topic early and how that clarity transforms your writing process. Part of the process of becoming a writer is learning how to read like a writer--to see the bones of structure and past the words to what choices the author is making and why they are (or aren't) working in the interest of the story. That's why Page and Podium is excited to announce our upcoming new Memoir Method Book Club, where each month we will be reading and examining a memoir with a writer's eye to learn more about what we can apply (or avoid) in our own work. 📅 New videos every Tuesday - subscribe and never miss an update! Timestamps: 2:00- The difference between message and topic 14:17- Topic reins you in 14:06- Topic defines your audience 19:41- Topic helps choose your starting point 👉 **Follow Us:** - **LinkedIn:** [Page and Podium Press](https://www.linkedin.com/company/page-and-podium-press/) - **Facebook:** [Page and Podium Press](https://www.facebook.com/pageandpodiumpress) - **Instagram:** [@pageandpodiumpress](https://www.instagram.com/pageandpodiumpress/) 🎵 Music I Use: Bensound License code: FZ3LM4DGUTQYKAES Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more writing tips and strategies. See you next Tuesday! Hashtags: #WritingTips #FirstTimeAuthors #ManuscriptRevision #BookWriting #AuthorAdvice #PageAndPodiumPress #memoirwriting #memoir #journal

Writing a memoir stirs up a whole mix of emotions—excitement, fear, anticipation, and the quiet urge to wait “just a little longer.” Many writers worry about starting too soon, but waiting too long carries its own risks. Memoir is deeply personal, year long work, and stepping into it can feel vulnerable. In this video, we’re breaking down the four foundational steps that help transform early anxieties into creative momentum. These are the same shifts we see again and again in our group program—where writers discover that once they move past the initial hurdle, the process becomes clearer, steadier, and far less intimidating. If you’ve been imagining your book but hesitating to begin, this episode will help you understand why those feelings might actually be signs that you’re ready. Part of the process of becoming a writer is learning how to read like a writer--to see the bones of structure and past the words to what choices the author is making and why they are (or aren't) working in the interest of the story. That's why Page and Podium is excited to announce our upcoming new Memoir Method Book Club, where each month we will be reading and examining a memoir with a writer's eye to learn more about what we can apply (or avoid) in our own work. 📅 New videos every Tuesday - subscribe and never miss an update! Timestamps: 1:30- Where the fear of starting comes from 4:30- Tell your story! 9:00- Speak to professionals 14:30- Make a budget for your support 17:30- Establish a support system 👉 **Follow Us:** - **LinkedIn:** [Page and Podium Press](https://www.linkedin.com/company/page-and-podium-press/) - **Facebook:** [Page and Podium Press](https://www.facebook.com/pageandpodiumpress) - **Instagram:** [@pageandpodiumpress](https://www.instagram.com/pageandpodiumpress/) 🎵 Music I Use: Bensound License code: FZ3LM4DGUTQYKAES Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more writing tips and strategies. See you next Tuesday! Hashtags: #WritingTips #FirstTimeAuthors #ManuscriptRevision #BookWriting #AuthorAdvice #PageAndPodiumPress #memoirwriting #memoir #journal

Unlock the craft behind the memoirs you love. Last week, we explored why reading like a writer matters: how it sharpens your instincts, deepens your craft, and reveals the invisible architecture that makes a story work. This week, we’re going behind the curtain. Whether you’re drafting your first chapter or revising a full manuscript, reading like a writer is your most reliable training ground. We'll explore how you can shift the way you read to analyze what you love--and don't love--about what you read and apply that to your own writing. Part of the process of becoming a writer is learning how to read like a writer--to see the bones of structure and past the words to what choices the author is making and why they are (or aren't) working in the interest of the story. That's why Page and Podium is excited to announce our upcoming new Memoir Method Book Club, where each month we will be reading and examining a memoir with a writer's eye to learn more about what we can apply (or avoid) in our own work. 📅 New videos every Tuesday - subscribe and never miss an update! Timestamps: 3:00-Decisions 4:00- There is no "right" way 6:00- Examining structure 9:00- Using reverse outlines 14:25- Considering yourself as an audience 15:15- Recognizing show versus tell 16:30- Understanding scene versus exposition 21:30- Reading for details and style 23:00- Guessing at the author's why 👉 **Follow Us:** - **LinkedIn:** [Page and Podium Press](https://www.linkedin.com/company/page-and-podium-press/) - **Facebook:** [Page and Podium Press](https://www.facebook.com/pageandpodiumpress) - **Instagram:** [@pageandpodiumpress](https://www.instagram.com/pageandpodiumpress/) 🎵 Music I Use: Bensound License code: FZ3LM4DGUTQYKAES Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more writing tips and strategies. See you next Tuesday! Hashtags: #WritingTips #FirstTimeAuthors #ManuscriptRevision #BookWriting #AuthorAdvice #PageAndPodiumPress #memoirwriting #memoir #journal

If you’re writing a memoir, here’s something essential to remember: you can’t write well if you’re not also reading well. And I don’t mean reading more — I mean reading with intention. Reading with your writer brain awake. It’s easy to fall into a book and assume it arrived in the world fully formed, but every memoir you love is the product of choices, structure, and revision. When you read like a writer, you start to see the scaffolding behind the story: how tension is built, how timelines are woven, how meaning is revealed without ever being spelled out. Over the next two weeks, we’re diving into why this practice matters so much for memoirists and how to use it to strengthen your own manuscript. No matter where you are in your draft, learning to read like a writer will change the way you write. Part of the process of becoming a writer is learning how to read like a writer--to see the bones of structure and past the words to what choices the author is making and why they are (or aren't) working in the interest of the story. That's why Page and Podium is excited to announce our upcoming new Memoir Method Book Club, where each month we will be reading and examining a memoir with a writer's eye to learn more about what we can apply (or avoid) in our own work. 📅 New videos every Tuesday - subscribe and never miss an update! Timestamps: 1:30- Why we read 3:00- News about our book club 4:00- How reading like a writer is different 7:30- Reading won't stifle your unique voice 10:00- Reading doesn't take away time from writing 13:20-- Identifying writer's choices 15:07- Trust yourself 👉 **Follow Us:** - **LinkedIn:** [Page and Podium Press](https://www.linkedin.com/company/page-and-podium-press/) - **Facebook:** [Page and Podium Press](https://www.facebook.com/pageandpodiumpress) - **Instagram:** [@pageandpodiumpress](https://www.instagram.com/pageandpodiumpress/) 🎵 Music I Use: Bensound License code: FZ3LM4DGUTQYKAES Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more writing tips and strategies. See you next Tuesday! Hashtags: #WritingTips #FirstTimeAuthors #ManuscriptRevision #BookWriting #AuthorAdvice #PageAndPodiumPress #memoirwriting #memoir #journal

The New Year always brings a wave of reflection and big promises — and 2026 is no exception. If writing (or finally finishing) your memoir is on your heart this year, you’re not alone. The trouble is, most of us focus so much on the distant finish line that we burn out before we ever build momentum. In this video, I’m breaking down five simple, repeatable habits that will help you make real, steady progress — and finally finish your book in 2026. Part of the process of becoming a writer is learning how to read like a writer--to see the bones of structure and past the words to what choices the author is making and why they are (or aren't) working in the interest of the story. That's why Page and Podium is excited to announce our upcoming new Memoir Method Book Club, where each month we will be reading and examining a memoir with a writer's eye to learn more about what we can apply (or avoid) in our own work. 📅 New videos every Tuesday - subscribe and never miss an update! Timestamps: 3:14--First Habit: Block off writing time 8:50--Second Habit: Read other memoirs 13:23-- Third Habit: Think about journaling practice 16:59-- Fourth Habit: Plan your next writing session before ending one 19:38-- Fifth Habit: Talk about your book 👉 **Follow Us:** - **LinkedIn:** [Page and Podium Press](https://www.linkedin.com/company/page-and-podium-press/) - **Facebook:** [Page and Podium Press](https://www.facebook.com/pageandpodiumpress) - **Instagram:** [@pageandpodiumpress](https://www.instagram.com/pageandpodiumpress/) 🎵 Music I Use: Bensound License code: FZ3LM4DGUTQYKAES Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more writing tips and strategies. See you next Tuesday! Hashtags: #WritingTips #FirstTimeAuthors #ManuscriptRevision #BookWriting #AuthorAdvice #PageAndPodiumPress #memoirwriting #memoir #journal

For our last video and podcast of 2025, we are reflecting on the biggest mistakes we've seen (and made) over this year, often over and over again. These aren't mistakes like putting a comma before every "and" regardless of whether there's a second clause, but the kind of mistake that drags down your progress, gets your whole project off track, or just sucks the fun out of writing itself. Watch now to avoid carrying these six mistakes into 2026! Part of the process of becoming a writer is learning how to read like a writer--to see the bones of structure and past the words to what choices the author is making and why they are (or aren't) working in the interest of the story. That's why Page and Podium is excited to announce our upcoming new Memoir Method Book Club, where each month we will be reading and examining a memoir with a writer's eye to learn more about what we can apply (or avoid) in our own work. 📅 New videos every Tuesday - subscribe and never miss an update! Timestamps: 0:00-Intro 4:51 First mistake: Rushing 9:10 Second mistake: Clinging to what you've already written 15:15 Third mistake: Getting stuck on right vs wrong 19:19 Fourth mistake: Not trusting your intuition 23:12 Fifth mistake: Getting stuck in your audience's head 27:37 Final mistake: Not celebrating all your wins 👉 **Follow Us:** - **LinkedIn:** [Page and Podium Press](https://www.linkedin.com/company/page-and-podium-press/) - **Facebook:** [Page and Podium Press](https://www.facebook.com/pageandpodiumpress) - **Instagram:** [@pageandpodiumpress](https://www.instagram.com/pageandpodiumpress/) 🎵 Music I Use: Bensound License code: FZ3LM4DGUTQYKAES Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more writing tips and strategies. See you next Tuesday! Hashtags: #WritingTips #FirstTimeAuthors #ManuscriptRevision #BookWriting #AuthorAdvice #PageAndPodiumPress #memoirwriting #memoir #journal

"Building Platform" can feel like a dreaded, insurmountable task for writers (especially ones that tend towards introversion or hate social media) but it doesn't have to be. The concept and process of building a platform is often misunderstood. It's not just social media statistics! This week, we're breaking down how to shift your mindset regarding building your platform away from imagined benchmarks and uncomfortable exposure to finding genuine ways to form real connections with your audience centered on your story, expertise, and message. Part of the process of becoming a writer is learning how to read like a writer--to see the bones of structure and past the words to what choices the author is making and why they are (or aren't) working in the interest of the story. That's why Page and Podium is excited to announce our upcoming new Memoir Method Book Club, where each month we will be reading and examining a memoir with a writer's eye to learn more about what we can apply (or avoid) in our own work. 📅 New videos every Tuesday - subscribe and never miss an update! Timestamps: 0:00-Intro 4:08 - What do we mean by platform? 7:51 - 3 Different Examples of Successfully Leveraging Platform 16:01 - Platform as Message 18:19 - What can building a platform do? 20:12 - Building direct connection with audience 28:06 - First tip: Own your Unique Expertise 31:48 - Second tip: Embrace Growth 33:42 - Third tip: Name and Face Your Fear 👉 **Follow Us:** - **LinkedIn:** [Page and Podium Press](https://www.linkedin.com/company/page-and-podium-press/) - **Facebook:** [Page and Podium Press](https://www.facebook.com/pageandpodiumpress) - **Instagram:** [@pageandpodiumpress](https://www.instagram.com/pageandpodiumpress/) 🎵 Music I Use: Bensound License code: FZ3LM4DGUTQYKAES Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more writing tips and strategies. See you next Tuesday! Hashtags: #WritingTips #FirstTimeAuthors #ManuscriptRevision #BookWriting #AuthorAdvice #PageAndPodiumPress #memoirwriting #memoir #journal

Landing a traditional book deal with a large publishing house is a dream for many writers. While we've said many times on this channel that all publishing paths are valid, we also want to encourage anyone aiming at that Big-5 Book Deal to go for it. Landing one of those deals is a long process (and comes with no guarantees), but this week we break down the process into five milestone steps to set your expectations and ensure you've given your book project its best shot at getting that deal. Part of the process of becoming a writer is learning how to read like a writer--to see the bones of structure and past the words to what choices the author is making and why they are (or aren't) working in the interest of the story. That's why Page and Podium is excited to announce our upcoming new Memoir Method Book Club, where each month we will be reading and examining a memoir with a writer's eye to learn more about what we can apply (or avoid) in our own work. 📅 New videos every Tuesday - subscribe and never miss an update! Timestamps: 0:00-Intro 5:16 - All Publishing Paths are valid 5:22 - What constitutes a "book deal"? 15:10 - First step: Build a Platform 19:25 - Second Step: Write the Book 22:18 - Third step: Prepare your Pitch 29:15 - Fourth step: Query Agents 34:57- Fifth step: Go out on sub 👉 **Follow Us:** - **LinkedIn:** [Page and Podium Press](https://www.linkedin.com/company/page-and-podium-press/) - **Facebook:** [Page and Podium Press](https://www.facebook.com/pageandpodiumpress) - **Instagram:** [@pageandpodiumpress](https://www.instagram.com/pageandpodiumpress/) 🎵 Music I Use: Bensound License code: FZ3LM4DGUTQYKAES Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more writing tips and strategies. See you next Tuesday! Hashtags: #WritingTips #FirstTimeAuthors #ManuscriptRevision #BookWriting #AuthorAdvice #PageAndPodiumPress #memoirwriting #memoir #journal

Many times on this channel we've talked about the importance of the often-underestimated development or "prewriting" step, which includes brainstorming and outlining the structure and key focus points of your narrative. However, that process can be difficult to dive into when you're not ready. How do you know you're ready? This week, we're reviewing four questions to ask yourself and tips for that stage even before prewriting begins. Part of the process of becoming a writer is learning how to read like a writer--to see the bones of structure and past the words to what choices the author is making and why they are (or aren't) working in the interest of the story. That's why Page and Podium is excited to announce our upcoming new Memoir Method Book Club, where each month we will be reading and examining a memoir with a writer's eye to learn more about what we can apply (or avoid) in our own work. 📅 New videos every Tuesday - subscribe and never miss an update! Timestamps: 0:00-Intro 4:11- Find your ONE story 9:56- Secure your mental health support 11:14- Find the "end" of your story 19:37- Honestly reflect on whether you can present the events fairly 👉 **Follow Us:** - **LinkedIn:** [Page and Podium Press](https://www.linkedin.com/company/page-and-podium-press/) - **Facebook:** [Page and Podium Press](https://www.facebook.com/pageandpodiumpress) - **Instagram:** [@pageandpodiumpress](https://www.instagram.com/pageandpodiumpress/) 🎵 Music I Use: Bensound License code: FZ3LM4DGUTQYKAES Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more writing tips and strategies. See you next Tuesday! Hashtags: #WritingTips #FirstTimeAuthors #ManuscriptRevision #BookWriting #AuthorAdvice #PageAndPodiumPress #memoirwriting #memoir #journal

We want to stay informed and be aware of all that is happening in the world, but these days that can become overwhelming fast. That constant intake of bad news and conflict can fill our minds and make us feel many things—angry, hopeless, even guilty about our limited ability to help—but our creative impulses are drowning. Putting aside your creativity when the world feels like it’s on fire is not the way to help others or ourselves. Today we’re talking about why protecting your creativity is so important, especially when times are dark. Part of the process of becoming a writer is learning how to read like a writer--to see the bones of structure and past the words to what choices the author is making and why they are (or aren't) working in the interest of the story. That's why Page and Podium is excited to announce our upcoming new Memoir Method Book Club, where each month we will be reading and examining a memoir with a writer's eye to learn more about what we can apply (or avoid) in our own work. 📅 New videos every Tuesday - subscribe and never miss an update! Timestamps: 0:00 Doomscrolling 13:29- What Overconsumption of Media does to your brain 19:40- Creating without pressure 20:58- Creating with joy 23:00- Create with purpose 👉 **Follow Us:** - **LinkedIn:** [Page and Podium Press](https://www.linkedin.com/company/page-and-podium-press/) - **Facebook:** [Page and Podium Press](https://www.facebook.com/pageandpodiumpress) - **Instagram:** [@pageandpodiumpress](https://www.instagram.com/pageandpodiumpress/) 🎵 Music I Use: Bensound License code: FZ3LM4DGUTQYKAES Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more writing tips and strategies. See you next Tuesday! Hashtags: #WritingTips #FirstTimeAuthors #ManuscriptRevision #BookWriting #AuthorAdvice #PageAndPodiumPress #memoirwriting #memoir #journal

We're coming up on the season where our desire to make progress on our books rises...exactly as the time we have to write it somehow goes up in smoke. Planning a writing retreat, either during the holidays or sometime in in early 2026, can be an amazing chance to make headway on your book and be energized for the coming year. Watch for our we at Page & Podium set up our writing retreat to be a success. Part of the process of becoming a writer is learning how to read like a writer--to see the bones of structure and past the words to what choices the author is making and why they are (or aren't) working in the interest of the story. That's why Page and Podium is excited to announce our upcoming new Memoir Method Book Club, where each month we will be reading and examining a memoir with a writer's eye to learn more about what we can apply (or avoid) in our own work. 📅 New videos every Tuesday - subscribe and never miss an update! Timestamps: 2:00- The value of a retreat 6:00-Logistics 12:00- Itinerary 18:45- Goals & Celebration 👉 **Follow Us:** - **LinkedIn:** [Page and Podium Press](https://www.linkedin.com/company/page-and-podium-press/) - **Facebook:** [Page and Podium Press](https://www.facebook.com/pageandpodiumpress) - **Instagram:** [@pageandpodiumpress](https://www.instagram.com/pageandpodiumpress/) 🎵 Music I Use: Bensound License code: FZ3LM4DGUTQYKAES Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more writing tips and strategies. See you next Tuesday! Hashtags: #WritingTips #FirstTimeAuthors #ManuscriptRevision #BookWriting #AuthorAdvice #PageAndPodiumPress #memoirwriting #memoir #journal

After years of ghostwriting and coaching others through crafting their memoirs and non-fiction books, it's time for me to dive into a more personal project. In doing so, I am reminded of the challenges of applying the elements of craft to very personal content and how freeing and transformative working through that process can be. This week, I'm sharing what I've learned from applying the methods and process we've developed for helping others through ghostwriting, one-on-one coaching and our Memoir Method group program to tell my personal story of leaving the academy. Part of the process of becoming a writer is learning how to read like a writer--to see the bones of structure and past the words to what choices the author is making and why they are (or aren't) working in the interest of the story. That's why Page and Podium is excited to announce our upcoming new Memoir Method Book Club, where each month we will be reading and examining a memoir with a writer's eye to learn more about what we can apply (or avoid) in our own work. 📅 New videos every Tuesday - subscribe and never miss an update! Timestamps: Intro: 0:00 3:00- Moving from Ghosting writing to personal writing 6:30- Navigating Tension between audience and the self 9:00- Using message as guidance 10:30- Worrying about reactions 14:30- The personal and first person 17:00- Honestly presenting negative experiences 19:30- Outlining thinner and thicker chapters 21:30- Emotional distance 25:00- Structure is freeing 26:30- Outlining takes time 29:30- Process is supportive 👉 **Follow Us:** - **LinkedIn:** [Page and Podium Press](https://www.linkedin.com/company/page-and-podium-press/) - **Facebook:** [Page and Podium Press](https://www.facebook.com/pageandpodiumpress) - **Instagram:** [@pageandpodiumpress](https://www.instagram.com/pageandpodiumpress/) 🎵 Music I Use: Bensound License code: FZ3LM4DGUTQYKAES Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more writing tips and strategies. See you next Tuesday! Hashtags: #WritingTips #FirstTimeAuthors #ManuscriptRevision #BookWriting #AuthorAdvice #PageAndPodiumPress #memoirwriting #memoir #journal

Over and over on this channel, we have emphasized that the whole concept of "the lone author" is a widely held myth. Most books are written with some form of support, whether its technical, editorial, or just moral. In the past several years, the term "book coach" has emerged more on the publishing scene. But what exactly is a book coach, who needs one, and what benefits can you really expect? Part of the process of becoming a writer is learning how to read like a writer--to see the bones of structure and past the words to what choices the author is making and why they are (or aren't) working in the interest of the story. That's why Page and Podium is excited to announce our upcoming new Memoir Method Book Club, where each month we will be reading and examining a memoir with a writer's eye to learn more about what we can apply (or avoid) in our own work. 📅 New videos every Tuesday - subscribe and never miss an update! Timestamps: Intro:1:05 2:47 5 things book coaches do 3:02 What a book coaching session is like 9:05 1st benefit --(accountability) 13:18 2nd benefit-- training and education 20:00 3rd benefit-- community 23:07 4th benefit-- clarity 28:39: last benefit--sense of encouragement and support 👉 **Follow Us:** - **LinkedIn:** [Page and Podium Press](https://www.linkedin.com/company/page-and-podium-press/) - **Facebook:** [Page and Podium Press](https://www.facebook.com/pageandpodiumpress) - **Instagram:** [@pageandpodiumpress](https://www.instagram.com/pageandpodiumpress/) 🎵 Music I Use: Bensound License code: FZ3LM4DGUTQYKAES Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more writing tips and strategies. See you next Tuesday! Hashtags: #WritingTips #FirstTimeAuthors #ManuscriptRevision #BookWriting #AuthorAdvice #PageAndPodiumPress #memoirwriting #memoir #journal

The term "vanity press" is generally used as an insult or by authors to describe what they for sure don't want to do. The image of a "vanity" press is one that will slap a cover on every manuscript that crosses their desk without regard to quality or content at the direct cost of the author. A traditional publisher, in contrast, is one that pays author for their work and takes on all the funds the costs of publishing. But this binary black-and-white thinking isn't an accurate reflection of the current market and the options available. While endeavoring to avoid a "vanity press" at all costs, you might be thumbing your nose at genuine opportunities through other publishing paths. Part of the process of becoming a writer is learning how to read like a writer--to see the bones of structure and past the words to what choices the author is making and why they are (or aren't) working in the interest of the story. That's why Page and Podium is excited to announce our upcoming new Memoir Method Book Club, where each month we will be reading and examining a memoir with a writer's eye to learn more about what we can apply (or avoid) in our own work. 📅 New videos every Tuesday - subscribe and never miss an update! 👉 **Follow Us:** - **LinkedIn:** [Page and Podium Press](https://www.linkedin.com/company/page-and-podium-press/) - **Facebook:** [Page and Podium Press](https://www.facebook.com/pageandpodiumpress) - **Instagram:** [@pageandpodiumpress](https://www.instagram.com/pageandpodiumpress/) 🎵 Music I Use: Bensound License code: FZ3LM4DGUTQYKAES Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more writing tips and strategies. See you next Tuesday! Hashtags: #WritingTips #FirstTimeAuthors #ManuscriptRevision #BookWriting #AuthorAdvice #PageAndPodiumPress #memoirwriting #memoir #journal

So many--so, so many--deserving stories go unfinished. It's understandable, as this writing process isn't easy and it's often not straightforward. We hear every week from authors who are trying to revitalize stories that they've shoved in a drawer five, ten, even thirty years ago. From working with these women, we see a clear pattern--there are five main reasons women abandon their memoirs. The good news? Every single one of them is something you can overcome. Part of the process of becoming a writer is learning how to read like a writer--to see the bones of structure and past the words to what choices the author is making and why they are (or aren't) working in the interest of the story. That's why Page and Podium is excited to announce our upcoming new Memoir Method Book Club, where each month we will be reading and examining a memoir with a writer's eye to learn more about what we can apply (or avoid) in our own work. 📅 New videos every Tuesday - subscribe and never miss an update! Timestamps: 1:08 intro 2:07 The Real Problem 11:32 First reason- No plan or structure 11:41 2nd reason- Rigidity in thinking and process 18:28 third reason- Lack of investment 24:05 4th reason -Externalization of writing pressure 26:43 5th reason- Skill set not up to their own standards 👉 **Follow Us:** - **LinkedIn:** [Page and Podium Press](https://www.linkedin.com/company/page-and-podium-press/) - **Facebook:** [Page and Podium Press](https://www.facebook.com/pageandpodiumpress) - **Instagram:** [@pageandpodiumpress](https://www.instagram.com/pageandpodiumpress/) 🎵 Music I Use: Bensound License code: FZ3LM4DGUTQYKAES Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more writing tips and strategies. See you next Tuesday! Hashtags: #WritingTips #FirstTimeAuthors #ManuscriptRevision #BookWriting #AuthorAdvice #PageAndPodiumPress #memoirwriting #memoir #journal

Writers love a writerly accessory or two, but we all know deep down that having exactly the right notebook, keyboard, glasses chain, tea mug, color-coded post-its (I'm now just naming things on my desk, but you get the idea.) doesn't actually make or break your writing project. In fact, the real things you really must have for to make your writing project successful aren't things you add-to-cart. Today we talk about the five things we find essential for finishing that memoir. Part of the process of becoming a writer is learning how to read like a writer--to see the bones of structure and past the words to what choices the author is making and why they are (or aren't) working in the interest of the story. That's why Page and Podium is excited to announce our upcoming new Memoir Method Book Club, where each month we will be reading and examining a memoir with a writer's eye to learn more about what we can apply (or avoid) in our own work. 📅 New videos every Tuesday - subscribe and never miss an update! Timestamps: Intro - 1:07 2:12: 1st memoir must have- clear message 3:05 Topic vs message 6:34- A defined audience 11:29- A working outline 16:22- Accountability 19:53- Community 👉 **Follow Us:** - **LinkedIn:** [Page and Podium Press](https://www.linkedin.com/company/page-and-podium-press/) - **Facebook:** [Page and Podium Press](https://www.facebook.com/pageandpodiumpress) - **Instagram:** [@pageandpodiumpress](https://www.instagram.com/pageandpodiumpress/) 🎵 Music I Use: Bensound License code: FZ3LM4DGUTQYKAES Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more writing tips and strategies. See you next Tuesday! Hashtags: #WritingTips #FirstTimeAuthors #ManuscriptRevision #BookWriting #AuthorAdvice #PageAndPodiumPress #memoirwriting #memoir #journal

We often refer to the drafting stage of the process "the chapter train"--especially when it's going well. If you set yourself up in development, you can get on the chapter train and chug-chug along to the end. But of course, having a plan doesn't mean something won't throw a problem on the tracks. This week, we're looking at five ways your chapters can go off the rails and how to stop and correct the issue and get back on the chapter train. (And two ways where your self doubt might tell you you're off track, but you really just need to keep going.) Part of the process of becoming a writer is learning how to read like a writer--to see the bones of structure and past the words to what choices the author is making and why they are (or aren't) working in the interest of the story. That's why Page and Podium is excited to announce our upcoming new Memoir Method Book Club, where each month we will be reading and examining a memoir with a writer's eye to learn more about what we can apply (or avoid) in our own work. 📅 New videos every Tuesday - subscribe and never miss an update! Timestamps: 0:00 What does "off the rails" mean? 2:00- Self-doubt can derail your progress 4:14- You can't be "off the rails" if you never put the rails down 8:10- Being stuck in the "and thens" 13:00-Drifting into the clouds 16:50- Hopscotching 19:20- Rewriting spin cycle 23:10- You're not off the rails if you're making discoveries 27:00- Feeling like you're "too {fill in the blank}" is nearly always a second draft problem. 👉 **Follow Us:** - **LinkedIn:** [Page and Podium Press](https://www.linkedin.com/company/page-and-podium-press/) - **Facebook:** [Page and Podium Press](https://www.facebook.com/pageandpodiumpress) - **Instagram:** [@pageandpodiumpress](https://www.instagram.com/pageandpodiumpress/) 🎵 Music I Use: Bensound License code: FZ3LM4DGUTQYKAES Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more writing tips and strategies. See you next Tuesday! Hashtags: #WritingTips #FirstTimeAuthors #ManuscriptRevision #BookWriting #AuthorAdvice #PageAndPodiumPress #memoirwriting #memoir #journal

We often talk about a memoir's central message and how important it is for a strong and focused narrative. Many starting and even experienced authors struggle with this focus because sometimes it can tip over into preachiness, which is a put-off to readers and goes against what many writers really want for their book. You're not here to be judgmental or tell people how live; you're here to share something you deeply feel is true, important, and may help others. This balance can be tricky to achieve, but we have four steps to ensure your message is clear and delivered in your narrative in a way that reads naturally and pleasantly, without veering into preachiness. Part of the process of becoming a writer is learning how to read like a writer--to see the bones of structure and past the words to what choices the author is making and why they are (or aren't) working in the interest of the story. That's why Page and Podium is excited to announce our upcoming new Memoir Method Book Club, where each month we will be reading and examining a memoir with a writer's eye to learn more about what we can apply (or avoid) in our own work. 📅 New videos every Tuesday - subscribe and never miss an update! Timestamps: 0:00-Intro 2:15- Balancing narrative and message can be technically difficult 3:55- Step 1: Find your story, make it narrow 6:10- Your topic and message are not the same 7:30- Step 2: Refine your message for your audience 10:30- Step 3: Define your turning points 12:40- Step 4: Ensure your outline focuses on change 14:00- Change and development helps avoid repetition and preachiness 👉 **Follow Us:** - **LinkedIn:** [Page and Podium Press](https://www.linkedin.com/company/page-and-podium-press/) - **Facebook:** [Page and Podium Press](https://www.facebook.com/pageandpodiumpress) - **Instagram:** [@pageandpodiumpress](https://www.instagram.com/pageandpodiumpress/) 🎵 Music I Use: Bensound License code: FZ3LM4DGUTQYKAES Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more writing tips and strategies. See you next Tuesday! Hashtags: #WritingTips #FirstTimeAuthors #ManuscriptRevision #BookWriting #AuthorAdvice #PageAndPodiumPress #memoirwriting #memoir #journal

Perfectionism is a species of black and white thinking that can kill your book. We've seen passionate people with amazing stories to tell stopped at every stage of the process: unable to start without the perfect plan, unable to keep going unless every chapter is perfect, unable to revise without assurance that the fix is perfect, and unable to move into the publishing process without assurance that it's perfect. Perfect is not an unachievable benchmark. It's not even a desirable one. This week we're looking at five questions to ask yourself to end your perfectionism and finish your book! Part of the process of becoming a writer is learning how to read like a writer--to see the bones of structure and past the words to what choices the author is making and why they are (or aren't) working in the interest of the story. That's why Page and Podium is excited to announce our upcoming new Memoir Method Book Club, where each month we will be reading and examining a memoir with a writer's eye to learn more about what we can apply (or avoid) in our own work. 📅 New videos every Tuesday - subscribe and never miss an update! Timestamps: 0:00-It won't be perfect 4:29- Question 1: What does perfect mean? 7:30- Question 2: Which version of you will be the judge of "perfect"? 9:30- Question 3: Are you actually just procrastinating? 13:20- Question 4: Why do you think is perfect even desirable? 15:10: Question 5: Can memoir ever be perfect? Would you even read a "perfect" memoir? 👉 **Follow Us:** - **LinkedIn:** [Page and Podium Press](https://www.linkedin.com/company/page-and-podium-press/) - **Facebook:** [Page and Podium Press](https://www.facebook.com/pageandpodiumpress) - **Instagram:** [@pageandpodiumpress](https://www.instagram.com/pageandpodiumpress/) 🎵 Music I Use: Bensound License code: FZ3LM4DGUTQYKAES Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more writing tips and strategies. See you next Tuesday! Hashtags: #WritingTips #FirstTimeAuthors #ManuscriptRevision #BookWriting #AuthorAdvice #PageAndPodiumPress #memoirwriting #memoir #journal

This week we are thrilled to have guest author Lisa Katona Smith on the day of the debut of Parallel Recovery: A guide for those who love someone with substance use disorder. Among other topics, Lisa discusses how she knew she was ready to write her book and expand the audience of her message. Lisa Katona Smith is the founder of Parallel Recovery-Family Recovery Services, and a nationally recognized advocate for families impacted by Substance Use Disorder (SUD). Drawing from her personal journey and over 20 years as a masters level educator, Lisa developed Parallel Recovery®, an innovative approach to fostering healing, sustainability, and connection. A TEDx speaker and trusted guide, she empowers families with compassionate tools to navigate recovery together. In Parallel Recovery, Lisa shares her transformative insights to help families thrive, one step at a time. She resides in Colorado with her family. Part of the process of becoming a writer is learning how to read like a writer--to see the bones of structure and past the words to what choices the author is making and why they are (or aren't) working in the interest of the story. That's why Page and Podium is excited to announce our upcoming new Memoir Method Book Club, where each month we will be reading and examining a memoir with a writer's eye to learn more about what we can apply (or avoid) in our own work. 📅 New videos every Tuesday - subscribe and never miss an update! Timestamps: 0:00-Intro 1:40 Introducing Lisa 2:45- What Parallel Recovery is about 5:18- Who is the book for? Choosing audience 7:45- Working one person at a time 9:00- Owning your expertise in a larger field 10:20- Including other's experiences 12:40- Addressing other professionals 14:50- Vulnerability resonates 16:30- Voice and terminology 21:50- Considering the weeks after launch 23:30- Advice for authors 25:49- How to connect with Lisa 👉 **Follow Us:** - **LinkedIn:** [Page and Podium Press](https://www.linkedin.com/company/page-and-podium-press/) - **Facebook:** [Page and Podium Press](https://www.facebook.com/pageandpodiumpress) - **Instagram:** [@pageandpodiumpress](https://www.instagram.com/pageandpodiumpress/) 🎵 Music I Use: Bensound License code: FZ3LM4DGUTQYKAES Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more writing tips and strategies. See you next Tuesday! Hashtags: #WritingTips #FirstTimeAuthors #ManuscriptRevision #BookWriting #AuthorAdvice #PageAndPodiumPress #memoirwriting #memoir #journal

AI is here, and many writers are turning to it. It can produce words much faster than any human can--but does that mean it's actually helping? Is producing your work faster than you can read and evaluate it carefully actually saving you time? Over the past year, we've been taking careful stock of how LLMs--ChatGPT in particular--works and its effects on writing and writers. We are not impressed. AI isn't really helping you become a stronger writer; in fact, it's killing your writing. Part of the process of becoming a writer is learning how to read like a writer--to see the bones of structure and past the words to what choices the author is making and why they are (or aren't) working in the interest of the story. That's why Page and Podium is excited to announce our upcoming new Memoir Method Book Club, where each month we will be reading and examining a memoir with a writer's eye to learn more about what we can apply (or avoid) in our own work. 📅 New videos every Tuesday - subscribe and never miss an update! Timestamps: 0:00-Intro 1:27- Ethical Questions of AI 3:25- It will hurt your ability to write 4:00- MIT study 7:00- Leaning on AI hurts your skill 8:20- It doesn't actually save you time 9:50- It can change your preferences 11:45- It can push out nuance 14:00- It's a Yes Man 17:40- It overrides your developing instincts 22:00- Where writers should put their energy 23:45- Copyright and the future 24:50-Ask yourself why you're using it 👉 **Follow Us:** - **LinkedIn:** [Page and Podium Press](https://www.linkedin.com/company/page-and-podium-press/) - **Facebook:** [Page and Podium Press](https://www.facebook.com/pageandpodiumpress) - **Instagram:** [@pageandpodiumpress](https://www.instagram.com/pageandpodiumpress/) 🎵 Music I Use: Bensound License code: FZ3LM4DGUTQYKAES Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more writing tips and strategies. See you next Tuesday! Hashtags: #WritingTips #FirstTimeAuthors #ManuscriptRevision #BookWriting #AuthorAdvice #PageAndPodiumPress #memoirwriting #memoir #journal

Writers often think that the best way to sell a book is to have the best book. However, what makes a book "good" and what makes a book "marketable" are not the same thing. We know that many excellent books tragically never find an audience. (And some books that are just pretty okay do.) We talked last month about what makes a memoir good--but what makes it actually marketable? When you get into the final stages of drafting, it's time to start thinking about these things, so today we're talking about the six essential components of marketable memoir. Part of the process of becoming a writer is learning how to read like a writer--to see the bones of structure and past the words to what choices the author is making and why they are (or aren't) working in the interest of the story. That's why Page and Podium is excited to share our new Memoir Method Book Club, where each month we will be reading and examining a memoir with a writer's eye to learn more about what we can apply (or avoid) in our own work. 📅 New videos every Tuesday - subscribe and never miss an update! Timestamps: 0:00- Why the answer is usually "It depends" 1:00- The difference between "good" and "marketable" 4:50- Who cares most about "marketable" 6:10- Don't change how you write 6:50- How to think about your book as a product 7:55- #1 An Identifiable Audience 17:15- #2 Are you timely, evergreen, or both? 24:00- #3 Comps! What are you like and how are you different? 30:00- #4 Author Credibility and Expertise 34:00- #5 Promotional Strategy 38:00- #6 Good Writing 👉 **Follow Us:** - **LinkedIn:** [Page and Podium Press](https://www.linkedin.com/company/page-and-podium-press/) - **Facebook:** [Page and Podium Press](https://www.facebook.com/pageandpodiumpress) - **Instagram:** [@pageandpodiumpress](https://www.instagram.com/pageandpodiumpress/) 🎵 Music I Use: Bensound License code: FZ3LM4DGUTQYKAES Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more writing tips and strategies. See you next Tuesday! Hashtags: #WritingTips #FirstTimeAuthors #ManuscriptRevision #BookWriting #AuthorAdvice #PageAndPodiumPress #memoirwriting #memoir #journal

Being a writer often comes hand in hand with being a school supply/office supply nerd. We love to see August roll around because it means those amazing walls of school supplies for the coming year--new pens, notepads, ink colors, and all that. These accessories can become distracting toys, but if you a setting yourself up to write your memoir, you do need a few of these things! For our fun video this week, we are discussing the things you really do need to have in order to set yourself up for a successful writing journey. (The list may be shorter than you think, and not all of them are things you can buy on a target endcap!) Part of the process of becoming a writer is learning how to read like a writer--to see the bones of structure and past the words to what choices the author is making and why they are (or aren't) working in the interest of the story. That's why Page and Podium is excited to share our new Memoir Method Book Club, where each month we will be reading and examining a memoir with a writer's eye to learn more about what we can apply (or avoid) in our own work. 📅 New videos every Tuesday - subscribe and never miss an update! Timestamps: 0:00- Back to school! 2:15-Buy a journal! 4:30- Why a journal is truly helpful, not just quaint 8:20- Notecards, either physical or digital 11:00- Scrivener writing program 12:14- Beware of procrastination with toys 13:34- Microsoft Word 15:30- Designated digital spaces 17:21- File naming conventions 20:10- Find your favorite source for information 21:15- Accountability 24:00- The Memoir Method 👉 **Follow Us:** - **LinkedIn:** [Page and Podium Press](https://www.linkedin.com/company/page-and-podium-press/) - **Facebook:** [Page and Podium Press](https://www.facebook.com/pageandpodiumpress) - **Instagram:** [@pageandpodiumpress](https://www.instagram.com/pageandpodiumpress/) 🎵 Music I Use: Bensound License code: FZ3LM4DGUTQYKAES Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more writing tips and strategies. See you next Tuesday! Hashtags: #WritingTips #FirstTimeAuthors #ManuscriptRevision #BookWriting #AuthorAdvice #PageAndPodiumPress #memoirwriting #memoir #journal

"If I could only just sit down, focus, and knock this out..." How many times have you said this to yourself about your writing? I certainly have, far too many times. Since when do we want to "knock out" things that we love? Truth we want to share? Connections we want to make? When we start thinking about our writing like a job at a word factory, our connection with it suffers. We struggle to see the big picture of why we want to write it in the first place, and we develop an antagonistic relationship with it. This will happen for so many writers, often many times in their careers, but you don't have to get stuck there. Do you have a plan for actually finishing your memoir? If not, we know you aren’t making the progress you hoped for. That’s why we developed The Memoir Method Checklist. This free guide (and video training!) will take you through every single step you need from idea to published marketable book. Grab it now at https://pageandpodium.com/checklist 📅 New videos every Tuesday - subscribe and never miss an update! Timestamps: 0:00- Intro 1:45- Productivity in contemporary society 2:50- Productivity versus creativity 5:50- Factory production versus craftsmen 8:12- Creating like children 11:30-Value in the Process 12:30- Creating Page and Podium 14:20- Personal burnout example 18:40- Stop Shaming Ourselves 20:00- The problem with "Knocking it out" 24:30- Planning creative work like a vacation 29:00- Learning to love the process 👉 **Follow Us:** - **LinkedIn:** [Page and Podium Press](https://www.linkedin.com/company/page-and-podium-press/) - **Facebook:** [Page and Podium Press](https://www.facebook.com/pageandpodiumpress) - **Instagram:** [@pageandpodiumpress](https://www.instagram.com/pageandpodiumpress/) 🎵 Music I Use: Bensound License code: FZ3LM4DGUTQYKAES Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more writing tips and strategies. See you next Tuesday! Hashtags: #WritingTips #FirstTimeAuthors #ManuscriptRevision #BookWriting #AuthorAdvice #PageAndPodiumPress #memoirwriting #memoir #journal

In part four of our book sales series, we want to address an obstacle we see many of our authors face as they begin to promote their published book, especially authors of memoirs or hybrid memoirs. These authors have important experiences to share, have done the work of thinking through them and deeply considering their meaning and relevance, and have written the book on the subject—but still don’t feel like an “expert.” Expert is a word we use a lot in discussing book promotion and marketing, but it can be loaded for many writers, triggering self-doubt and sometimes even stopping their progress. Today, we explore how you can get out and promote your book with confidence. Do you have a plan for actually finishing your memoir? If not, we know you aren’t making the progress you hoped for. That’s why we developed The Memoir Method Checklist. This free guide (and video training!) will take you through every single step you need from idea to published marketable book. Grab it now at https://pageandpodium.com/checklist 📅 New videos every Tuesday - subscribe and never miss an update! Timestamps: 0:00- Intro 2:00- Why expertise is essential in non-fiction book promotion 5:00- Gaining expertise is a process, not a finish line 9:40- You message, not story, is how you connect with audiences 13:50- Heartland example 16:10-Niching down 22:50- The real meaning of the Dunning-Kruger Effect 25:00- Hold on tight to your message 👉 **Follow Us:** - **LinkedIn:** [Page and Podium Press](https://www.linkedin.com/company/page-and-podium-press/) - **Facebook:** [Page and Podium Press](https://www.facebook.com/pageandpodiumpress) - **Instagram:** [@pageandpodiumpress](https://www.instagram.com/pageandpodiumpress/) 🎵 Music I Use: Bensound License code: FZ3LM4DGUTQYKAES Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more writing tips and strategies. See you next Tuesday! Hashtags: #WritingTips #FirstTimeAuthors #ManuscriptRevision #BookWriting #AuthorAdvice #PageAndPodiumPress #memoirwriting #memoir #journal

The launch of your book is a wonderfully exciting time. In this third episode of our series on sales, Amanda explores the different way your mindset can set you up for a successful book launch and continuing that into the months or years after your initial book launch. There are elements of our psychology behind both writing the memoir and trying to launch it into the market that can cause a lot of distress for authors, and being mentally prepared for these steps will not only make the process go more smoothly, but will also ground you so you can enjoy every step of the way. Do you have a plan for actually finishing your memoir? If not, we know you aren’t making the progress you hoped for. That’s why we developed The Memoir Method Checklist. This free guide (and video training!) will take you through every single step you need from idea to published marketable book. Grab it now at https://pageandpodium.com/checklist 📅 New videos every Tuesday - subscribe and never miss an update! Timestamps: 4:30- Dealing with exposure and vulnerability 5:00- Physical symptoms of nervous dysregulation 6:25- Sympathetic and Parasympathetic responses 7:30- Flight, Fight, Freeze, and Fawn as it pertains to book sales 9:40- Memoirs require revisiting nervous states 12:36- Desperation in authors 16:00- Recognizing scammers 17:00- Recognizing good and successful strategies 22:00- Dysregulation will keep you from launching even when you're ready 26:15- Somatic movement 28:00- EFT Practices 29:00 Deep breathing 30:15- Support your health with regular sleep and eating 👉 **Follow Us:** - **LinkedIn:** [Page and Podium Press](https://www.linkedin.com/company/page-and-podium-press/) - **Facebook:** [Page and Podium Press](https://www.facebook.com/pageandpodiumpress) - **Instagram:** [@pageandpodiumpress](https://www.instagram.com/pageandpodiumpress/) 🎵 Music I Use: Bensound License code: FZ3LM4DGUTQYKAES Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more writing tips and strategies. See you next Tuesday! Hashtags: #WritingTips #FirstTimeAuthors #ManuscriptRevision #BookWriting #AuthorAdvice #PageAndPodiumPress #memoirwriting #memoir #journal

There is one question that haunts so many aspiring authors--"Will this book sell?" It's a fair question, but it's not one that anyone can easily answer with a simple yes or no for many reasons. And they certainly can't assure you of sales before the book is even started. There are many misconceptions and misunderstandings about how book sales actually work, so today, in part two of our series about books sales and successful publishing, we're discussing five important misconceptions about books sales. Do you have a plan for actually finishing your memoir? If not, we know you aren’t making the progress you hoped for. That’s why we developed The Memoir Method Checklist. This free guide (and video training!) will take you through every single step you need from idea to published marketable book. Grab it now at https://pageandpodium.com/checklist 📅 New videos every Tuesday - subscribe and never miss an update! Timestamps: 0:00- "Will this book sell?" 1:36- There are no black and white answers 3:40- The common issue is assuming others will do things for you rather than with you 4:00- -Amazon's role 11:00- NYT bestseller list is not something you can control the way you want 15:51- Your success is a journey 17:00- Don't let the fear that your book won't sell stop you from writing it 19:25- What if your book only sold 100 copies? 22:08: You are the messenger 23:51- Publishers will not cover your main promotion for you 27:00- The difference between marketing and promotion 29:41- There is no "right" way to sell books 👉 **Follow Us:** - **LinkedIn:** [Page and Podium Press](https://www.linkedin.com/company/page-and-podium-press/) - **Facebook:** [Page and Podium Press](https://www.facebook.com/pageandpodiumpress) - **Instagram:** [@pageandpodiumpress](https://www.instagram.com/pageandpodiumpress/) 🎵 Music I Use: Bensound License code: FZ3LM4DGUTQYKAES Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more writing tips and strategies. See you next Tuesday! Hashtags: #WritingTips #FirstTimeAuthors #ManuscriptRevision #BookWriting #AuthorAdvice #PageAndPodiumPress #memoirwriting #memoir #journal

Every author wants their book to be a success. But what does it really mean for a book to be successful? Is it winning awards? Finding devoted readers? Helping others face their own lives with bravery? Sales? There is a distinct transition between the creative process and business, industry process of trying to publish, market, and sell your book. Making that transition can come with psychological traps that get in the way. This doesn't mean you can't dream big for your book. Rather, it means you are understanding that the book industry is just that--an industry. Your strategy will be very dependent on your specific goals and target audiences. Do you have a plan for actually finishing your memoir? If not, we know you aren’t making the progress you hoped for. That’s why we developed The Memoir Method Checklist. This free guide (and video training!) will take you through every single step you need from idea to published marketable book. Grab it now at https://pageandpodium.com/checklist 📅 New videos every Tuesday - subscribe and never miss an update! Timestamps: 0:00- Why this question matters 3:00- The importance of clear goals 9:30- Self-doubt 12:25- Two sneaky causes of self-doubt 18:20- Memoirs trend towards the niche 20:18- Finding your specific audience 21:18- Understanding targeted book ads 22:41- "Midlist" books 25:00- Define what you want from your book launch 27:00- Include numerical and intangible goals 👉 **Follow Us:** - **LinkedIn:** [Page and Podium Press](https://www.linkedin.com/company/page-and-podium-press/) - **Facebook:** [Page and Podium Press](https://www.facebook.com/pageandpodiumpress) - **Instagram:** [@pageandpodiumpress](https://www.instagram.com/pageandpodiumpress/) 🎵 Music I Use: Bensound License code: FZ3LM4DGUTQYKAES Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more writing tips and strategies. See you next Tuesday! Hashtags: #WritingTips #FirstTimeAuthors #ManuscriptRevision #BookWriting #AuthorAdvice #PageAndPodiumPress #memoirwriting #memoir #journal

Hope Fabillar is one of our Memoir Method graduates. In this video, Hope and Amanda discuss how to write a deeply personal family story, being vulnerable through story telling, how to find the support and process that will work for you , and how to share and talk about that process with family. Do you have a plan for actually finishing your memoir? If not, we know you aren’t making the progress you hoped for. That’s why we developed The Memoir Method Checklist. This free guide (and video training!) will take you through every single step you need from idea to published marketable book. Grab it now at https://pageandpodium.com/checklist 📅 New videos every Tuesday - subscribe and never miss an update! Timestamps: 2:00- Introducing Hope 4:50- Starting the process 5:40- "Shelving" your memoir 9:30- Ups and downs of the drafting process 12:30- Living through your narrative 18:00- The importance of being vulnerable 22:00- Writing against type 26:00- The importance of support 28:00- The learning curve of different styles of writing 32:00- The revision process 35:45- The Memoir Method support You can find Hope's Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/hopefabillar/ 👉 **Follow Us:** - **LinkedIn:** [Page and Podium Press](https://www.linkedin.com/company/page-and-podium-press/) - **Facebook:** [Page and Podium Press](https://www.facebook.com/pageandpodiumpress) - **Instagram:** [@pageandpodiumpress](https://www.instagram.com/pageandpodiumpress/) 🎵 Music I Use: Bensound License code: FZ3LM4DGUTQYKAES Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more writing tips and strategies. See you next Tuesday! Hashtags: #WritingTips #FirstTimeAuthors #ManuscriptRevision #BookWriting #AuthorAdvice #PageAndPodiumPress #memoirwriting #memoir #journal

In our fourth and final part of our revision series, Amanda discusses how revision is a process, and how many authors hold many misconceptions about that process. Revision is not the linear process of going through your draft page by page. That's editing. Revision is a out-in process, starting with reconsidering the work as a whole and then working down into the details. It's crucial to remember this about revision so you're not spending hours and hours painting that sandcastle. Do you have a plan for actually finishing your memoir? If not, we know you aren’t making the progress you hoped for. That’s why we developed The Memoir Method Checklist. This free guide (and video training!) will take you through every single step you need from idea to published marketable book. Grab it now at https://pageandpodium.com/checklist 📅 New videos every Tuesday - subscribe and never miss an update! Timestamps: 1:15- Revision is the most important stage of the process 2:30- The difference between revision and editing 5:11- The stages of revision 6:24- The importance of a reverse outline 10:00- Stay out of the weeds 11:15- Manuscript Review 14:00- Writing is a craft 15:00- Don't skip grits 19:00- Avoid the sunk cost fallacy 20:30- You will feel things lock in 21:50- Ask: Is this worth it to you? 👉 **Follow Us:** - **LinkedIn:** [Page and Podium Press](https://www.linkedin.com/company/page-and-podium-press/) - **Facebook:** [Page and Podium Press](https://www.facebook.com/pageandpodiumpress) - **Instagram:** [@pageandpodiumpress](https://www.instagram.com/pageandpodiumpress/) 🎵 Music I Use: Bensound License code: FZ3LM4DGUTQYKAES Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more writing tips and strategies. See you next Tuesday! Hashtags: #WritingTips #FirstTimeAuthors #ManuscriptRevision #BookWriting #AuthorAdvice #PageAndPodiumPress #memoirwriting #memoir #journal

In part three of our four-part revision series, we talk about a necessary, but often fraught and scary, step of the revision process: getting feedback. Most writers know that feedback is necessary for making polished final drafts, but beginning writers don't always know how and when to seek it out. It can be very exciting to have accomplished enough writing to getting feedback. But not all feedback is helpful--either it's too early, too focused on the reader's personal preferences, or diverting you from what you really need to be working on at this point in your process. In this video, Amanda reviews when to get feedback on your memoir--and when not to. Do you have a plan for actually finishing your memoir? If not, we know you aren’t making the progress you hoped for. That’s why we developed The Memoir Method Checklist. This free guide (and video training!) will take you through every single step you need from idea to published marketable book. Grab it now at https://pageandpodium.com/checklist 📅 New videos every Tuesday - subscribe and never miss an update! Timestamps: 3:10- Do you need feedback, or do you need affirmation? 8:20- Determine the type of draft you think you have 10:16- Getting feedback on your outline 15:46- Revise before you seek more feedback 17:16- Give your feedback readers guidance of what feedback you need 19:14- Your readers should be able to tell you your message clearly 21:15- Take time to process that feedback 24:15- Accept that not all feedback needs to be "obeyed" 26:45- You can often address feedback in multiple ways 28:00- Recruit support that is not feedback based 31:00- The feedback cycle can go on forever if you let it 👉 **Follow Us:** - **LinkedIn:** [Page and Podium Press](https://www.linkedin.com/company/page-and-podium-press/) - **Facebook:** [Page and Podium Press](https://www.facebook.com/pageandpodiumpress) - **Instagram:** [@pageandpodiumpress](https://www.instagram.com/pageandpodiumpress/) 🎵 Music I Use: Bensound License code: FZ3LM4DGUTQYKAES Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more writing tips and strategies. See you next Tuesday! Hashtags: #WritingTips #FirstTimeAuthors #ManuscriptRevision #BookWriting #AuthorAdvice #PageAndPodiumPress #memoirwriting #memoir #journal

In our second part of our four-part revision series, we ask a fundamental question: what makes a memoir good? So many writers avoid even starting their book because they're afraid it won't be good. They want assurance that it will be good before they start. We're sorry to say that no one can really give you that assurance because the basics of the story isn't what makes a book good--it's the work that you put in to it. What makes a memoir good is quite subjective, but there are several important key elements you can ensure are in place to make your book much more likely to engage and delight readers. In this video, we talk through four key elements that all good memoirs share. Do you have a plan for actually finishing your memoir? If not, we know you aren’t making the progress you hoped for. That’s why we developed The Memoir Method Checklist. This free guide (and video training!) will take you through every single step you need from idea to published marketable book. Grab it now at https://pageandpodium.com/checklist 📅 New videos every Tuesday - subscribe and never miss an update! Timestamps: 2:00-Why no one can assure you your book is good before you write it 3:00- The best stories aren't always the most exciting 4:00- When a company promises you a best seller--that's a scam 6:00- Memoir Method Program open to now open to revisions 8:00- Four necessities for a good memoir 8:14- Good memoirs have a cohesive key message and purpose 12:27- The importance of letting go 17:10- Good memoirs engage the reader's curiosity 22:43- The pace moves forward with conflict and change 28:51- Clear and consistent writing 👉 **Follow Us:** - **LinkedIn:** [Page and Podium Press](https://www.linkedin.com/company/page-and-podium-press/) - **Facebook:** [Page and Podium Press](https://www.facebook.com/pageandpodiumpress) - **Instagram:** [@pageandpodiumpress](https://www.instagram.com/pageandpodiumpress/) 🎵 Music I Use: Bensound License code: FZ3LM4DGUTQYKAES Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more writing tips and strategies. See you next Tuesday! Hashtags: #WritingTips #FirstTimeAuthors #ManuscriptRevision #BookWriting #AuthorAdvice #PageAndPodiumPress #memoirwriting #memoir #journal

Drafting can be a heady, dizzying experience, especially for first-time writers. Many different approaches bring us to the page, and after months or even years of work, we have something that kind of resembles a book. It's book-shaped, if you will. There is a bookish amount of words in the document. But how close is it to be a finished book? How do you start to take what you have done so far and bring it that last few miles to something that feels genuinely finished and polished? Well, the first step is figuring out exactly what kind of draft you have. This week, we are reviewing five types of draft and talk through first steps on how to get started on revisions. This is part one of a four-part revision series. Do you have a plan for actually finishing your memoir? If not, we know you aren’t making the progress you hoped for. That’s why we developed The Memoir Method Checklist. This free guide (and video training!) will take you through every single step you need from idea to published marketable book. Grab it now at https://pageandpodium.com/checklist 📅 New videos every Tuesday - subscribe and never miss an update! Timestamps: 0:00- House metaphors 8:42- Chaos House 13:58- Skeletal frame 19:43- Lopsided house 27:05- Painted sandcastle 30:33- Messy house 👉 **Follow Us:** - **LinkedIn:** [Page and Podium Press](https://www.linkedin.com/company/page-and-podium-press/) - **Facebook:** [Page and Podium Press](https://www.facebook.com/pageandpodiumpress) - **Instagram:** [@pageandpodiumpress](https://www.instagram.com/pageandpodiumpress/) 🎵 Music I Use: Bensound License code: FZ3LM4DGUTQYKAES Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more writing tips and strategies. See you next Tuesday! Hashtags: #WritingTips #FirstTimeAuthors #ManuscriptRevision #BookWriting #AuthorAdvice #PageAndPodiumPress #memoirwriting #memoir #journal

If you're here, you have probably had an itch to tell your story. Your life is unique and what you've learned through your experiences feels powerful to you. We hear from authors so often who want to tell their story--but aren't sure anyone wants to read it. We hear the question all the time--is this story even worth writing? The only one that can really answer that question is you, but there are things that may be standing in the way of finding a clear answer. Our culture has very powerful--and often harmful--concepts of "worth" that hurt our understanding of what is valuable and how we determine value. Do you have a plan for actually finishing your memoir? If not, we know you aren’t making the progress you hoped for. That’s why we developed The Memoir Method Checklist. This free guide (and video training!) will take you through every single step you need from idea to published marketable book. Grab it now at https://pageandpodium.com/checklist 📅 New videos every Tuesday - subscribe and never miss an update! Timestamps: 0:00- Why this question matters 1:38-Advice from business coach 4:15-- You can't know or predict whether your work will resonate with an audience 6:55- Self-expression is never wasted 9:00- You choose how your expression should be valued 13:55- We often don't feel "worthy" in ourselves 15:25- Writing a memoir is hard when we're taught not to value ourselves 18:50- Writing without assurance feels vulnerable 20:17- Creativity is your birthright 25:19- We are here to have experiences 26:50- You deserve to experience the things you want to experience 👉 **Follow Us:** - **LinkedIn:** [Page and Podium Press](https://www.linkedin.com/company/page-and-podium-press/) - **Facebook:** [Page and Podium Press](https://www.facebook.com/pageandpodiumpress) - **Instagram:** [@pageandpodiumpress](https://www.instagram.com/pageandpodiumpress/) 🎵 Music I Use: Bensound License code: FZ3LM4DGUTQYKAES Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more writing tips and strategies. See you next Tuesday! Hashtags: #WritingTips #FirstTimeAuthors #ManuscriptRevision #BookWriting #AuthorAdvice #PageAndPodiumPress #memoirwriting #memoir #journal

Anything that feels like a slog is going to be put last on our to do list, which is a death knell to creative projects. While there's no short cut that makes it lightning fast or painlessly easy, this week we have ten tips to keep your momentum forward and accelerate the writing process. An unfinished book is a tragedy, so these tips can help you keep moving forward until you have a complete draft and are ready for those important next steps. Do you have a plan for actually finishing your memoir? If not, we know you aren’t making the progress you hoped for. That’s why we developed The Memoir Method Checklist. This free guide (and video training!) will take you through every single step you need from idea to published marketable book. Grab it now at https://pageandpodium.com/checklist 📅 New videos every Tuesday - subscribe and never miss an update! Timestamps: First tip 1:44- Make a Plan Second tip 3:27- Make an Outline Third tip 5:45- Find one favorite source for information Fourth tip 7:30- Determine whether your chapter lengths are working for you Fifth tip 10:06- Let go of perfection Sixth tip 11:25- Stop and brainstorm when you need to Seventh tip 13:43- Sit on your hands Eighth tip 15:24- Expect and plan on slow progress Ninth tip 17:22- Share your book progress Tenth tip 19:14- Trust yourself 👉 **Follow Us:** - **LinkedIn:** [Page and Podium Press](https://www.linkedin.com/company/page-and-podium-press/) - **Facebook:** [Page and Podium Press](https://www.facebook.com/pageandpodiumpress) - **Instagram:** [@pageandpodiumpress](https://www.instagram.com/pageandpodiumpress/) 🎵 Music I Use: Bensound License code: FZ3LM4DGUTQYKAES Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more writing tips and strategies. See you next Tuesday! Hashtags: #WritingTips #FirstTimeAuthors #ManuscriptRevision #BookWriting #AuthorAdvice #PageAndPodiumPress #memoirwriting #memoir #journal

Having a strong outline is important because the underlying structure is what makes or breaks so many narratives. But how do you know your outline is "right"? There are so many forms and approaches to outlines out there, and the majority of them do not have memoirs in mind. Memoirs are their own form of writing, and they deserve to have their own considerations when it comes to outlining them. Structures used to describe fiction--like the Hero's Journey or Save the Cat--might feel overly prescriptive, especially when the facts of your life story don't really seem to fit. This week, we review four mistakes you can make while outlining your memoir and how to avoid them. Do you have a plan for actually finishing your memoir? If not, we know you aren’t making the progress you hoped for. That’s why we developed The Memoir Method Checklist. This free guide (and video training!) will take you through every single step you need from idea to published marketable book. Grab it now at https://pageandpodium.com/checklist 📅 New videos every Tuesday - subscribe and never miss an update! Timestamps: 6:00- You can use too much or too little guidance Mistakes: 12:13-Using a descriptive form as a prescription 14:40- Just writing and see how it comes out 18:54- Relying heavily on an "alternative" structure 20:53- Relying on an "internal" or bare-bones outline 👉 **Follow Us:** - **LinkedIn:** [Page and Podium Press](https://www.linkedin.com/company/page-and-podium-press/) - **Facebook:** [Page and Podium Press](https://www.facebook.com/pageandpodiumpress) - **Instagram:** [@pageandpodiumpress](https://www.instagram.com/pageandpodiumpress/) 🎵 Music I Use: Bensound License code: FZ3LM4DGUTQYKAES Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more writing tips and strategies. See you next Tuesday! Hashtags: #WritingTips #FirstTimeAuthors #ManuscriptRevision #BookWriting #AuthorAdvice #PageAndPodiumPress #memoirwriting #memoir #journal