Have you ever wanted to sit down with an author several steps ahead of you down the writing journey and ask her all the questions? I think that’s what you’ll find in this week’s episode. We talk about…

* self-publishing vs traditional publishing

* self-published books getting picked up by traditional publishers

* the importance of writing conferences and making connections with agents and publishers

* the importance of having author friends

* social media for writers

* processing our difficult life events before publishing about them

It was a wonderfully eclectic conversation full of helpful insight.

Kathy Izard is the author of five books who has helped raise over $75 million for innovations in housing and mental health in Charlotte. As the mom of four daughters and grandmother to two grandsons, Kathy believes in the power of intergenerational reading to discuss big topics. Her new titles Grace Heard a Whisper and Trust the Whisper (June 2024) can be read together to explore the idea of living a purpose-filled life. Through her book coaching, retreats, and workshops, Kathy loves helping women find what’s calling them. Kathy’s work has been featured on NPR and the Today Show inspiring people to be change makers in their communities. www.kathyizard.com

The Purposeful Pen is a weekly podcast for Christian writers designed to help you build a writing life with eternal impact. Each week you’ll hear practical tips and Biblical truth on topics such as improving your writing, honing your message, and managing your time. I always respond to listener emails, and I love to hear from you! [email protected]

Disclaimer: I believe in and approach life (and writing) from a distinctly evangelical Christian perspective, but some of my guests may not. When I interview a guest on a specifically spiritual topic, I try to know in advance that I can support their theological stances on the topics relating to our interview. When the topic is not particularly spiritual, our theological views may differ. My interviewing of guests and providing links to their work does not necessarily indicate my complete theological endorsement of all their written work.

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit amylynnsimon.substack.com