Buildwriting

How to Turn Everyday Life into Poetry—and a Creative Calling | With Wendie DonabieWhat if poetry wasn’t just for the page—but a path to healing, rediscovery, and purpose?In this episode of Buildwriting, Wendie Donabie shares exactly how she transformed retirement into a thriving creative life through poetry and painting. Whether you're writing your first poem or wondering if your art truly matters, Wendie’s story will show you how to reconnect with inspiration, write from emotion, and embrace the mess and meaning of creativity.You’ll learn:How to use art and nature to spark poetryWhat poetry marathons can teach you about writing under pressureHow to balance structure and spontaneity in your writing routineHow poetry helps process grief and deepen self-understandingWhy consistency is more important than perfectionIf you’ve ever doubted your voice, felt too late to start, or wanted to find meaning in your words—this episode is your invitation back to the page.Chapters:00:00 Meet Wendie Donabie: From Corporate Life to Creative Rebirth02:00 How to Use Art and Nature as Poetic Prompts05:00 Inside a Poetry Marathon: What It’s Like and What It Teaches08:00 Sustaining Creative Energy During Long Writing Sessions11:00 Writing Through Grief and Emotional Turning Points14:00 From Poetry to Mystery Novels: Trusting the Evolving Muse17:00 What Makes Poetry Powerful and Why It Still Matters20:00 Advice for Beginner Poets and What Wendie Wishes She Knew23:00 Where to Read More of Wendie’s WorkConnect with Wendie Donabie:🌿 Website (Poetry & Blog): https://wendiedonabie.ca🎨 Art Gallery: https://wendiedonabie.comJoin the Buildwriting Newsletter:📩 Want behind-the-scenes writing insights, poetry prompts, and creative tools? Subscribe here

In this episode of BuildWriting, host Onyemechi Nwakonam sits down with mathematician-turned-poet Shreya Suraj to explore how to find inspiration in the ordinary and craft poetry that truly connects. Shreya shares her journey from writing free verse during the pandemic to leading environmental art workshops and beach cleanups—and how all of it fuels her creative process.What You’ll LearnHow Shreya blends precision and playfulness to spot poetic moments in everyday lifeThe moment she discovered the freedom of free verse and let go of forced rhymesBehind the scenes of her “Cell Phone or Prison Cell?” poem and why it resonatesPractical prep tips for virtual poetry marathons—even when power cuts strikeWhy simplicity and emotional clarity are the hallmarks of accessible poetryShreya’s top advice for hosting welcoming, low-pressure open mic eventsCreative ways she recycles household materials into mandala artThoughts on the challenges of getting paid for poetry today—and alternative income ideasTimestamps00:00 – Welcome & episode overview01:18 – Meet Shreya Suraj: poet, mom, environmental activist04:19 – From rhymes to free verse: finding your voice06:53 – Reading “Cell Phone or Prison Cell?” poem09:01 – Preparing for a poetry marathon in low-power contexts11:47 – Sharing a kitchen-inspired poem on secret nibbles14:37 – The essence of poetry: touching another soul18:42 – How to run an inclusive, low-stress open mic21:02 – Making money (or not) as a poet and artist24:15 – Recycling art demo: turning question papers into mandalas28:26 – Final thoughts: success & next stepsResources & Links▶ Follow Shreya on Instagram: @shreyasurajabcd▶ Join our newsletter for writing prompts & behind-the-scenes: https://buildwriting.com/newsletterIf you enjoyed this conversation, please leave a rating or review and share with a fellow writer. Keep writing, keep building your craft—see you next week!

Hey writers and creators, Mechi here! After a much-needed break, I’m back celebrating five years of the Buildwriting blog and podcast. I’ve realized the key to growth is showing up—even when it’s messy. That’s why I’m committing to weekly episodes, new guest interviews, and building a real community for writers of all backgrounds. We’re launching book clubs, spoken word sessions, and interactive workshops, all shaped by YOUR feedback. So, subscribe, share, and join us every Monday and Friday as we level up our writing journeys together!Stay inspired every week with fresh creative writing prompts, insider tips on crafting poetry and short prose, and personal stories from a fellow writer’s journey—delivered straight to your inbox. Join the BuildWriting newsletter : https://buildwriting.com/newsletter/Chapters00:00:00 - Five Years of Buildwriting: Reflections and Gratitude00:00:42 - The Break: Why I Stepped Away00:01:12 - Showing Up as a Writer and Building Community00:02:03 - The Challenge of Consistency and Quality in Writing00:02:28 - Missing the Podcast and Renewed Commitment00:03:07 - Community Impact and Listener Stories00:03:45 - Setting Accountability & Future Podcast Schedule00:04:43 - Episode Structure Moving Forward00:05:22 - Inviting Diverse Writing Voices00:06:32 - Invitations to All Forms of Literary Creators00:07:15 - Plans for a Book Club00:08:05 - Building a Spoken Word Community00:08:59 - Creating a Supportive Writer’s Group00:09:22 - Workshops and Other Creative Projects00:09:55 - How to Connect & Support the Podcast00:10:20 - Share Your Ideas and Stay Tuned00:10:38 - Closing and What’s Next

In this episode, I share my incredible experience participating in the Poetry Marathon last year and why you should join the 2025 Poetry Mountain. It’s a 24-hour challenge where you write one poem every hour (or 12 hours for the half marathon). No competition—just you, your creativity, and a supportive global community of poets.Key Takeaways:My Experience: Last year, I almost missed the marathon due to a test, but when it got postponed, I dove in. Writing 24 poems in 24 hours pushed me to explore new forms, themes, and ideas—I surprised myself with what I created!What Is the Poetry Marathon?Full Marathon: 24 poems in 24 hours.Half Marathon: 12 poems in 12 hours.It’s about testing your limits, not competing.Why Join?Challenge yourself and discover hidden creativity.Write more in one day than you might in a year.Be part of a global community of writers.Logistics:Date: May 17, 2025.Deadline to register: May 12, 2025.Completely free!Preparation Tips:Mark the date and check your time zone.Finish chores/tasks beforehand to focus on writing.Invite poet friends to join—it’s more fun together!Ready to push your creative boundaries? Sign up using the link in the description! Share this with fellow writers, and let’s make the 2025 Poetry Marathon unforgettable.Join here - https://thepoetrymarathon.com/blog/the-poetry-marathon-prompts/registration-is-open-2

Join the newsletter to get my lettershttps://buildwriting.com/newsletter/In this episode, I share my journey of writing poetry for six consecutive days and the lessons I learned along the way. As someone who loves writing but struggled to build a consistent habit, I made a commitment to write a poem every day with just one simple rule: it had to be a minimum of ten lines. I discuss the challenges, triumphs, and the surprising moments of inspiration that came with showing up daily to write.I also explore the importance of consistency and how just showing up can shift your mindset and identity as a writer. Writing isn't always about creating masterpieces — it's about the practice and discipline of putting words on paper, even when the inspiration feels absent. I read one of my poems, “Scribbled Piece,” and reflect on how writing without judgment helped me embrace imperfection and build confidence.Looking ahead, I share my plan to emulate the works of Carl Sandburg, using his poetry as inspiration to explore new creative styles and techniques. Join me as I continue this poetic journey, discovering what it truly means to be a writer and how imitation can be a powerful tool for growth. If you love writing or want to develop a creative habit, this episode offers inspiration and actionable insights.Let me know your thoughts or suggestions for poets I should study next. Happy writing!Chapters00:00 The Journey Begins: Writing Poetry Daily02:47 The Process of Writing: Showing Up06:11 Lessons Learned: Time, Money, and Passion09:07 The Importance of Identity: Feeling Like a Writer12:02 Next Steps: Imitating Great Writers

I'm exploring the paradox of aspiring writers who avoid writing, trapped between perfectionism and fear. I discuss how waiting for the "perfect moment" or more experience prevents growth, while professional writers simply write regardless of circumstances. Join the newsletter https://buildwriting.com/newsletter/ Chapters: 00:00 - Introduction to Writing Trap 00:41 - Experience vs Action 01:41 - Historical Fiction Example 02:30 - Writing Advice Reality 03:43 - The Core Problem 04:30 - Fear of Criticism 05:37 - Professional Writer's Life 07:20 - Accountability Discussion 09:35 - Accessibility of Writing 11:46 - Ideas and Expansion 13:11 - Identity vs Work 14:15 - Finding Your Process 15:20 - Breaking Free from Excuses

Join The Newsletter https://buildwriting.com/newsletter/ Chapters 00:00 Podcast Relaunch and New Format 03:07 Overcoming Writing Challenges and Building Consistency 05:58 Engagement and Future Plans for the Podcast

In this episode, I emphasize that there’s no perfect time to start writing—so stop waiting for the right circumstances. I use J.K. Rowling as an example of someone who wrote Harry Potter during tough times, showing the importance of using what you have and working with your current skills. I suggest setting small, achievable daily writing goals and making use of inconvenient times and places to write. Challenges can be inspiration, and creating a minimal writing space can help you get started. Remember, the right time to start writing is right now. Join My Newsletter Love what you're hearing? Stay connected and never miss an update by joining my newsletter! Get exclusive insights, tips, and behind-the-scenes content delivered straight to your inbox. Just head over to https://buildwriting.com/newsletter/ and sign up today! Send an Audio Message Got something to say? I want to hear from you! Send me an audio message with your thoughts, questions, or stories, and you might just hear your voice on the next episode. Visit https://buildwriting.com/speak/ to record your message now! Takeaways There is no perfect time to start writing, so start now. Use what you have and work with your current skill level. Set small achievable daily writing goals. See challenges as inspiration and overcome them. Create a minimal writing space that works for your current situation. Chapters 00:00 Stop Waiting for the Right Circumstances 01:11 Use What You Have to Create What You Want 02:15 Waiting Leads to Regret and Missed Opportunities 03:15 Challenges as Inspiration 04:11 Use What You Have to Give Permission to Others to Shine 05:05 Create a Minimal Writing Space

In this episode, we dive deep into the question, "Can writing really be more than just a hobby?" Explore the vast career potential that writing offers beyond just novels and books. From screenwriting and poetry to content creation and technical writing, discover how you can turn your passion for writing into a full-time career. We discuss the importance of building a portfolio, establishing an online presence, and networking with industry professionals. Whether you're just starting out or looking to make a career shift, this episode provides valuable insights and actionable tips to help you on your journey. Plus, take on the writing challenge to explore different writing careers that might be your perfect fit. Don't forget to join the BuildWriting newsletter for more updates on my creative writing progress! Join My Newsletter Love what you're hearing? Stay connected and never miss an update by joining my newsletter! Get exclusive insights, tips, and behind-the-scenes content delivered straight to your inbox. Just head over to https://buildwriting.com/newsletter/ and sign up today! Send an Audio Message Got something to say? I want to hear from you! Send me an audio message with your thoughts, questions, or stories, and you might just hear your voice on the next episode. Visit https://buildwriting.com/speak/ to record your message now!

In this episode, I focus on how not knowing how to market shouldn’t stop you from writing. I emphasize that writing and marketing are separate skills, and the key to successful marketing is having a good product. I encourage you to focus on improving your craft and not let marketing distract you. I also mention that professionals in the publishing industry can help with marketing. I wrap up with a writing challenge and an invitation to join the newsletter. Join My Newsletter Love what you're hearing? Stay connected and never miss an update by joining my newsletter! Get exclusive insights, tips, and behind-the-scenes content delivered straight to your inbox. Just head over to https://buildwriting.com/newsletter/ and sign up today! Send an Audio Message Got something to say? I want to hear from you! Send me an audio message with your thoughts, questions, or stories, and you might just hear your voice on the next episode. Visit https://buildwriting.com/speak/ to record your message now! Takeaways Not knowing how to market should not stop writers from writing. Writing and marketing are separate skills. Having a good product is essential for successful marketing. Focus on improving your craft and let professionals in the publishing industry handle marketing. Take time to write without thinking about marketing. Collaborate with other writers and consider free online courses to learn the basics of marketing. Chapters 00:00 The Relationship Between Writing and Marketing 01:27 The Importance of Having a Good Product 02:59 Focusing on Writing and Not Letting Marketing Interfere 05:47 Collaborating with Other Writers and Personal Branding 05:58 Don't Let a Lack of Marketing Knowledge Stop You

In this episode, I explore the idea of whether we really need to travel more to find inspiration for our writing. We often hear that travel broadens the mind and enriches our experiences, but is it essential for crafting compelling stories? I discuss how many acclaimed works are set in ordinary places, and how our depth of observation can matter more than the breadth of our experiences. I also share practical tips on finding inspiration close to home, observing your surroundings with fresh eyes, and using research and imagination to fuel your writing. Tune in to discover how you can create extraordinary stories without ever leaving your own backyard. Join My Newsletter Love what you're hearing? Stay connected and never miss an update by joining my newsletter! Get exclusive insights, tips, and behind-the-scenes content delivered straight to your inbox. Just head over to https://buildwriting.com/newsletter/ and sign up today! Send an Audio Message Got something to say? I want to hear from you! Send me an audio message with your thoughts, questions, or stories, and you might just hear your voice on the next episode. Visit https://buildwriting.com/speak/ to record your message now! Timestamped Chapters: [00:00] - Introduction [00:05] - The Travel Myth [00:40] - Stories Close to Home [01:10] - The Search for Inspiration [01:49] - Ordinary Places, Extraordinary Stories [02:45] - The Skill of Observation [03:30] - Universal Themes in Any Setting [04:09] - Practical Advice for Writers [06:00] - The Value of Familiarity [07:00] - Research and Imagination [07:58] - Childhood as a Source of Inspiration [08:52] - Focus on What You Have [09:30] - Writing Challenge [10:00] - Conclusion

In this episode, I discuss the challenge of finding time to write while juggling a demanding day job. I suggest doing a time audit to see where your time goes and finding ways to optimize small pockets for writing. Strategies include waking up earlier, using lunch breaks, optimizing commute time for brainstorming, and scheduling sessions through time blocking. Weekends can be great for longer writing sessions. I emphasize the importance of making writing a priority and finding what works best for you. Join My Newsletter Love what you're hearing? Stay connected and never miss an update by joining my newsletter! Get exclusive insights, tips, and behind-the-scenes content delivered straight to your inbox. Just head over to https://buildwriting.com/newsletter/ and sign up today! Send an Audio Message Got something to say? I want to hear from you! Send me an audio message with your thoughts, questions, or stories, and you might just hear your voice on the next episode. Visit https://buildwriting.com/speak/ to record your message now! Takeaways Many writers have day jobs and need to find time to write Doing a time audit can help identify how time is currently being spent Optimizing small pockets of time, such as waking up earlier or using lunch breaks, can allow for writing Using commute time for brainstorming and meditation can help generate ideas Time blocking techniques can help schedule dedicated writing sessions Weekends can be leveraged for longer writing sessions Making writing a priority and finding what works best for each individual is key Chapters 00:00 Introduction: Is your day job really too demanding for writing? 00:46 Chapter 1: Doing a time audit 01:58 Chapter 2: Making the most of short writing sessions 04:00 Chapter 3: Leveraging a day job for structure and inspiration 04:35 Chapter 4: Practical advice for finding time to write 08:01 Conclusion: Writing challenge and closing remarks

In this episode, I tackle the challenge of staying consistent with writing and share tips on building discipline. Discipline is a skill you can develop, and I emphasize setting achievable daily writing goals and establishing a routine. I suggest habit stacking to weave writing into your daily life and recommend accountability measures like writing groups and public commitments. I encourage you to start a daily writing streak and challenge you to write for at least 10 minutes every day for the next week. Join My Newsletter Love what you're hearing? Stay connected and never miss an update by joining my newsletter! Get exclusive insights, tips, and behind-the-scenes content delivered straight to your inbox. Just head over to https://buildwriting.com/newsletter/ and sign up today! Send an Audio Message Got something to say? I want to hear from you! Send me an audio message with your thoughts, questions, or stories, and you might just hear your voice on the next episode. Visit https://buildwriting.com/speak/ to record your message now! Takeaways Discipline is a skill that can be learned and developed. Set achievable daily writing goals to maintain consistency. Create a writing routine and integrate writing into daily activities using habit stacking techniques. Accountability measures like writing groups and public commitments can help maintain discipline. Establish a daily writing streak to build consistency. Chapters 00:00 Introduction: The Challenge of Consistent Writing 02:11 Creating a Writing Habit 03:00 Integrating Writing into Your Routine 04:34 Staying Motivated and Accountable 05:44 Establishing a Daily Writing Streak 06:40 Conclusion

In this episode, I discuss why you don’t need an agent before you start writing. Agents want to see your writing skills and potential, so it’s crucial to practice and improve first. With options like self-publishing and hybrid publishing, the landscape has changed. Agents look for quality, marketable work, so having a solid body of work is essential. Starting with smaller publications or contests can help you build your resume and get feedback. Ultimately, the best way to attract an agent is to write an amazing book. Join My Newsletter Love what you're hearing? Stay connected and never miss an update by joining my newsletter! Get exclusive insights, tips, and behind-the-scenes content delivered straight to your inbox. Just head over to https://buildwriting.com/newsletter/ and sign up today! Send an Audio Message Got something to say? I want to hear from you! Send me an audio message with your thoughts, questions, or stories, and you might just hear your voice on the next episode. Visit https://buildwriting.com/speak/ to record your message now! Takeaways You don't need an agent before you start writing, but it is important to have evidence of your writing skills and potential. The publishing landscape has changed, offering options like self-publishing and hybrid publishing. Agents typically look for quality and marketable works, so it is important to have a body of work to show them. Starting with smaller publications or contests can help build your resume and receive feedback. The best way to attract an agent is to write an amazing book. Chapters 00:00 Introduction: Do I Need an Agent Before Starting to Write Seriously? 01:00 Chapter 1: The Changing Publishing Landscape 02:10 Chapter 2: Many Writers Started Without an Agent 02:57 Chapter 3: The Importance of Showing Your Work 04:24 Chapter 4: Focus on Writing Skills and Creating a Body of Work 06:34 Conclusion: The Best Way to Get an Agent

In this episode, I dive into how writer's block is often rooted in perfectionism, fear, and a lack of confidence. I stress the importance of prioritizing the act of writing over worrying about quality. Setting small, achievable goals and embracing bad writing as part of the process can help you push through. I also suggest strategies like free writing, changing your environment, and exploring different styles. The key is to keep trying and stay active to overcome that blocked feeling. Join My Newsletter Love what you're hearing? Stay connected and never miss an update by joining my newsletter! Get exclusive insights, tips, and behind-the-scenes content delivered straight to your inbox. Just head over to https://buildwriting.com/newsletter/ and sign up today! Send an Audio Message Got something to say? I want to hear from you! Send me an audio message with your thoughts, questions, or stories, and you might just hear your voice on the next episode. Visit https://buildwriting.com/speak/ to record your message now! Takeaways Writer's block is often caused by perfectionism, fear, and a lack of confidence. Prioritize the act of writing itself, rather than focusing on the quality of the output. Set small achievable writing goals to make progress. Embrace bad writing as part of the process and keep trying. Use strategies like free writing, changing the writing environment, and exploring different writing styles. Chapters 00:00 Understanding Writer's Block and Its Causes 01:04 The Goal of Writing: The Act Itself 03:11 Setting Achievable Writing Goals 04:29 Embracing Bad Writing as Part of the Process 08:24 Techniques to Get Started: Free Writing and Stream of Consciousness 09:32 Separating Emotions from the Writing Process 10:24 Consistently Showing Up and Writing

In this episode, I explore how writers often rely too much on software and tools, expecting them to improve their work. I share my own story of buying a typewriter, thinking it would make me a better writer, only to realize the issue wasn’t the tool—it was me. I emphasize that writing is a low-cost skill you can practice with just pen and paper, and expensive software doesn’t guarantee better writing. I offer practical advice on using free tools, focusing on your specific needs, and testing software before making a commitment. Join My Newsletter Love what you're hearing? Stay connected and never miss an update by joining my newsletter! Get exclusive insights, tips, and behind-the-scenes content delivered straight to your inbox. Just head over to https://buildwriting.com/newsletter/ and sign up today! Send an Audio Message Got something to say? I want to hear from you! Send me an audio message with your thoughts, questions, or stories, and you might just hear your voice on the next episode. Visit https://buildwriting.com/speak/ to record your message now! Takeaways Don't rely too heavily on software and tools for your writing success; take responsibility for the quality of your work. Expensive software does not guarantee better writing; focus on using what you have and upgrading only when necessary. Writing is a low-cost skill that can be practiced with just pen and paper; don't let the lack of fancy tools hold you back. Use free tools and consider open-source alternatives before investing in expensive software. Test and try different tools to find what works best for you; don't blame your tools for your writing challenges. Chapters 00:00 Introduction: Do You Really Need Expensive Software and Tools? 01:02 The Responsibility for the Quality of Work Lies with the Writer 03:04 Writing is a Low-Cost Skill that Can be Started with Pen and Paper 04:29 Focus on Using What You Have and Only Upgrade When Necessary 06:42 Explore Free Tools as Alternatives to Expensive Software 07:55 Expand Your Creativity by Writing with Different Tools 11:25 Conclusion: Follow and Review the Podcast

In this episode, I tackle the feeling of inadequacy when comparing ourselves to famous authors. I emphasize that their success should inspire, not intimidate, and remind you that the act of writing itself defines you as a writer—not the number of readers or awards. I share practical tips on developing your unique voice, setting realistic goals, studying the greats, embracing learning, and celebrating small wins. Remember, every writer has a unique story and perspective to share. Takeaways Don't let the excellence of famous authors discourage you from writing; be inspired by their success instead. The process of writing makes you a writer, not the number of readers or accolades. Focus on developing your own unique voice and perspective. Set realistic goals based on your current skill level and strive to improve over time. Study famous authors for inspiration and learn from their techniques. Embrace the learning process and celebrate small wins along the way. Chapters 00:00 Overcoming the Feeling of Inadequacy 03:29 Developing Your Unique Writing Voice 05:35 Setting Realistic Goals for Skill Improvement 07:43 Finding Inspiration in Famous Authors 09:27 Embracing the Learning Process 11:04 Celebrating Small Wins 12:21 Staying Committed to Writing Join My Newsletter"Love what you're hearing? Stay connected and never miss an update by joining my newsletter! Get exclusive insights, tips, and behind-the-scenes content delivered straight to your inbox. Just head over to https://buildwriting.com/newsletter/ and sign up today!" Send an Audio Message"Got something to say? I want to hear from you! Send me an audio message with your thoughts, questions, or stories, and you might just hear your voice on the next episode. Visit https://buildwriting.com/speak/ to record your message now!"

In this episode, I dive into a common concern among writers: Do you really need to master grammar before you start writing? I share my thoughts on how focusing too much on grammar can actually hold you back and discuss practical ways to improve your grammar skills as you write. If you've ever felt like your grammar isn't good enough, this episode is for you. Let's explore how you can build your writing skills without letting grammar get in the way.  Key Takeaways: 1. Grammar Mastery Isn't Required: You don't need perfect grammar to start writing; focus on storytelling and let editors or tools help with grammar. 2. Feedback Is Crucial: Writing and receiving feedback is essential for improving grammar and overall writing skills. 3. Use Tools: Utilize grammarchecking tools like Grammarly and ProWritingAid to catch mistakes and learn from them. 4. Join Writing Groups: Collaborate with others to give and receive feedback, which will improve your writing objectively. 5. Practice Over Perfection: Writing consistently and learning from your mistakes will naturally improve your grammar over time.  Timestamped Chapters:  [00:06] Introduction & Common Grammar Concerns    [02:31] The Role of Feedback in Improvement    [04:25] Writing Tools & Apps    [06:56] Separating Writing from Editing     [08:45] Practical Tips for Grammar Improvement    [10:53] The Listener Challenge & Wrapup       Join My Newsletter"Love what you're hearing? Stay connected and never miss an update by joining my newsletter! Get exclusive insights, tips, and behind-the-scenes content delivered straight to your inbox. Just head over to https://buildwriting.com/newsletter/ and sign up today!" Send an Audio Message"Got something to say? I want to hear from you! Send me an audio message with your thoughts, questions, or stories, and you might just hear your voice on the next episode. Visit https://buildwriting.com/speak/ to record your message now!"

In this episode, I dive into whether writing is too solitary for social people. Yes, writing is often a solo activity, but I stress the importance of seeking out connections and feedback. I suggest joining events, conferences, online communities, or a writing group. Collaboration with other creatives is key, and I wrap up by highlighting the perks of connecting with like-minded folks. Join My Newsletter"Love what you're hearing? Stay connected and never miss an update by joining my newsletter! Get exclusive insights, tips, and behind-the-scenes content delivered straight to your inbox. Just head over to https://buildwriting.com/newsletter/ and sign up today!" Send an Audio Message"Got something to say? I want to hear from you! Send me an audio message with your thoughts, questions, or stories, and you might just hear your voice on the next episode. Visit https://buildwriting.com/speak/ to record your message now!" Takeaways Writing is often a solitary activity, but it is important for writers to find connections and feedback from others. Joining events, conferences, and online communities can provide opportunities to connect with fellow writers and receive valuable feedback. Starting or joining a writing group allows for collaboration and support from like-minded individuals. Collaborating on writing projects with other creatives in adjacent industries can lead to the creation of unique and impactful works of art. Putting oneself out there and connecting with others who share the same passion and vision can lead to meaningful connections and opportunities. Chapters 00:00 Is writing too solitary for social people? 01:11 Finding connection through workshops and conferences 01:57 Engaging in online writing communities 02:59 Building supportive writing groups 04:35 Collaborating with creatives for unique projects 05:52 Putting yourself out there to connect

In this episode, I explore the idea that even ordinary lives hold interesting stories. As writers, our job is to transform the ordinary into the extraordinary. I emphasize that everyday stories can still be compelling and valuable. I provide practical advice for finding and creating stories, including keeping a journal, practicing people-watching, exploring family history, and analyzing emotional responses. Your challenge is to write a 100-word story about the secret life or hidden history of the most boring object in your room. Join the Newsletter https://buildwriting.com/newsletter/ Takeaways Even though our lives may seem ordinary, there are still interesting stories to be found. The job of a writer is to make the extraordinary out of the ordinary. Ordinary stories can still be compelling and valuable. Practical advice for finding and creating stories includes keeping a journal, practicing people watching, exploring family history, and analyzing emotional responses. The listener challenge is to write a 100-word story about the secret life or hidden history of the most boring object in their room. Sound Bites "Is your life really not interesting enough to write about?" "The job of the writer is to make the extraordinary." "Great stories often come from ordinary lives." Chapters 00:00 Is Your Life Interesting Enough to Write About? 01:15 Finding the Extraordinary in the Ordinary 03:15 Practicing People Watching and Imagining Stories 03:39 Exploring Family History and Cultural Background 04:30 Changing Perspectives: Discovering the Unique in Your Experiences 05:35 Practical Advice for Finding and Creating Stories