"The editor ghosted me."

I hear this a lot and though "ghosted" is just one seemingly innocuous word, it can really screw up your attitude. So today, I talk about why editors aren't ghosting you and a phrase to use instead that makes future pitches easier.

If you want to write even more, come to one of my two free workshops! I'm doing Write Your Pitch in 60 Minutes and Start Writing Now & Get Your Next Byline.

To see more and sign up (for both, if you want!) go to:

https://www.amberpetty.com/classes

Have a question you'd like answered on the podcast?

Email [email protected]

Cover Art by Jené Hernandez of Mixology Marketing

In today's reframe, I'm giving you a question: Why not you?

We ask ourselves "why should you write this," "why do you deserve this," "why would someone want to hear from you," but we don't often ask the question "why not?"

This relaxing reframe will give you lessons on how to combat that inner negativity and use E.L James' tome as inspiration.

If you want to write even more, come to one of my two free workshops! I'm doing Write Your Pitch in 60 Minutes and Start Writing Now & Get Your Next Byline.

To see more and sign up (for both, if you want!) go to:

https://www.amberpetty.com/classes

Have a question you'd like answered on the podcast?

Email [email protected]

Did you do the exercise? Take a screenshot or photo of your writing and tag me @ambernpetty on Instagram!

Cover Art by Jené Hernandez of Mixology Marketing

It's Labor Day! Woo?

In today's 5-minute exercise, you're going to write about dumb holidays or dumb holiday experiences. This could be anything from having to celebrate National Hot Dog Day at work to a very disappointing New Years Eve where you spent the night writing a play report for theatre history class (perhaps that's just me).

You'll get your prompt, 5 minutes to write (with soothing ocean sounds), and some very fun ideas from our holiday prompt.

If you want to write even more, come to one of my two free workshops! I'm doing Write Your Pitch in 60 Minutes and Start Writing Now & Get Your Next Byline.

To see more and sign up (for both, if you want!) go to:

https://www.amberpetty.com/classes

Have a question you'd like answered on the podcast?

Email [email protected]

Did you do the exercise? Take a screenshot or photo of your writing and tag me @ambernpetty on Instagram!

Cover Art by Jené Hernandez of Mixology Marketing

As a writer, you will encounter trolls. It's a sad fact of the internet and I wish it wasn't true.

In this episode, I share why they aren't as scary as they seem, 3 things to do to reduce the crappiness of trolls, and why trolling is sometimes a good thing. Plus, you'll find out that you don't ever have to go viral to have a writing career and that I'm always here to listen if you ever get negative feedback (and I'll write you a bunch of petty things about whoever insulted you).

Have a question you'd like answered on the podcast?

Email [email protected]

Want to say F you to trolls and keep writing? Find out where to pitch with my 250 Places That Pay Writers. Get that at AmberPetty.com/250

If someone trolled you and you want to vent (or get support), DM me on Instagram @Ambernpetty

Cover Art by Jené Hernandez of Mixology Marketing

Today, you're going to take a compliment!

Deflecting compliments or undercutting yourself is something I'm an absolute master of. But it's not great! When you can't take a compliment to heart, it sends a little message to yourself that you're not really deserving of praise and good Lord is that not true.

In this relaxing reframe, I'm going to give you a bunch of compliments and you'll say thank you. It might feel a little weird, but it helps a lot.

Also, this topic was inspired by my own recent hypocrisy, so please know that I'm still working on this just as much as anyone. But maybe you can try to get better right along with me.

Have a question you'd like answered on the podcast?

Email [email protected]

Want to find out about open writing jobs and get even more freelance advice? Sign up for Amber’s free newsletter at Amberpetty.com/signup

Want practice taking a compliment? Email me or DM me @ambernpetty on Instagram and I will give you a compliment! It's fun and who doesn't like hearing nice things from time to time? 

Cover Art by Jené Hernandez of Mixology Marketing

Today, we're using a simple prompt to bring about fun (or maybe not so fun) memories of your first crush. You'll get the prompt, 5 minutes of soothing ocean sounds while you write, and a little wrap up at the end.

If you want to write a list of ideas or the start of a story - great! Do whatever feels good to you, use keep the pen moving (or keys typing) for 5 minutes. I bet you'll be surprised at how much you get done.

Have a question you'd like answered on the podcast?

Email [email protected]

Want to find out about open writing jobs and get even more freelance advice? Sign up for Amber’s free newsletter at Amberpetty.com/signup

Did you do the exercise? Take a screenshot or photo of your writing and tag me @ambernpetty on Instagram!

Cover Art by Jené Hernandez of Mixology Marketing

Today, it's all about pitching, aka stuff I wish I knew when I started freelance writing.

You'll find out how pitches work, why you shouldn't be scared to pitch, and what to put in your pitch email to give your story the best chance of a yes.

If you want to make money with your writing, this is the skill to know. Put aside 19 minutes and learn how to get bylines you can brag about.

Also, I highly recommend subscribing to Sonia Weiser's Opportunities of the Week for many pitch requests directly from editors. You can subscribe here:

https://soniaweiser.wordpress.com/opportunities-of-the-week-newsletter/

Have a question you'd like answered on the podcast?

Email [email protected]

If you want to know where to pitch your pitches, get my guide to 250 Places That Pay for Your Writing at AmberPetty.com/250

Cover Art by Jené Hernandez of Mixology Marketing

Today, we're doing a more traditional visualization (don't worry, references to musical theater and late 90s pop songs will surely make a return). If you feel like you don't belong or that other writers are impossibly far above you, listen to this relaxing visualization to find your seat at the table.

Have a question you'd like answered on the podcast?

Email [email protected]

Visit AmberPetty.com/signup to get Amber's free writing job newsletter

Did you do the exercise? Take a screenshot or photo of your writing and tag me @ambernpetty on Instagram!

Cover Art by Jené Hernandez of Mixology Marketing

In today's 5-Minute Writing Exercise, you're going to focus on something you don't care about. "Why would I do that, what a dumb idea?" you might ask. Well, there's a point to my madness, so just give it a try.

Have a question you'd like answered on the podcast?

Email [email protected]

Visit AmberPetty.com/signup to get Amber's free writing job newsletter

Did you do the exercise? Take a screenshot or photo of your writing and tag me @ambernpetty on Instagram!

Cover Art by Jené Hernandez of Mixology Marketing

"How do I get started?" is the question I hear most often about freelance writing. So, I'm answering it. Spoiler: It's not as hard as you think.

Bonus: If you know what musical theater song I'm referencing in the title (Just One Spec), email me at [email protected] and the first to get it wins a prize!

Or if you have a question you'd like answered on the podcast, also email: [email protected]

Visit AmberPetty.com/signup to get Amber's free writing job newsletter

Cover Art by Jené Hernandez of Mixology Marketing