255: Rewriting History: Jeanne Blasberg's Modern Biblical Tales

In this episode, Massiel interviews Jean Blasberg, a novelist known for her modern retellings of biblical stories. Jean discusses the insights and challenges involved in adapting ancient stories to contemporary settings, particularly focusing on her latest novel, 'Daughter of a Promise,' a modern retelling of the biblical love story of David and Bathsheba. She explains her creative process, including how she draws from her own experiences and visual storytelling techniques. Jean also elaborates on her journey from writing personal essays to fiction, emphasizing the importance of writing groups and feedback in developing her work. 

Jean Blasberg, the author guest, talks about her writing journey, starting with her first novel published at the age of 50. She shares how her background, including her time as a case writer at Harvard Business School, influenced her writing style. Jean also delves into her experience with hybrid publishing through She Writes Press, highlighting the control and satisfaction it offers her. She reveals her fascination with small domestic dramas, her iterative writing process, and the inspiration she draws from her personal life and biblical stories. 

Topics mentioned in this episode: 

- Jean Blasberg's modern retellings of biblical stories 

- The importance of feedback and writing groups 

- Hybrid publishing and its benefits

02:57 Introduction and Greetings

03:11 Jeanne's Current Life and Farming

03:51 Discussing Jeanne's Books

09:01 Retelling the Story of David and Bathsheba

13:31 Jeanne's Writing Journey

20:36 Writing Process and Techniques

33:47 Publishing Journey with She Writes Press

41:24 Final Thoughts and Contact Information

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Author Links:

https://jeanneblasberg.com/

https://www.instagram.com/jeanneblasbergauthor/

https://www.facebook.com/jeanneblasbergauthor/

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Resources

Podcast site: www.howtowriteabookpodcast.com

Studios Website - www.blackheartedstudios.com

Free ebook link - https://bit.ly/h2bebook

Massiel's Email - [email protected]

Massiel's Coach.Me site - https://www.coach.me/massielwrites

Instagram - www.instagram.com/massielwrites

____________________________________________________________________________

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Guest: Chris Donaldson

Episode Name: Chris Donaldson: Adventures and Memoirs from a Life on the Road

Episode Number: 254

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About the guest

After returning from South America, Chris Donaldson expanded his family’s furniture business in Belfast to London and Dublin. He became the UK Master Franchisor for a fitness company, developed a health and fitness franchise, and started a mobile app company in Dubai, where he lived on a 47ft yacht. An avid sailor and pilot, Chris built his airplane and continues to ride his Moto Guzzi Le Mans. His epic journey, which began in 1979, concluded in 2023 when he reached Australia on the same bike. Now residing in Belfast, Chris works with Jeff Arditti selling furniture and is the father of two daughters. His journey still influences his life, and rumors of him writing a book have even reached the afterlife.

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In this episode, Massiel chats with Chris Donaldson, an adventurer and author of the memoir "Going the Wrong Way." Chris shares his incredible journey of traveling around the world on a motorbike, a dream sparked by a magazine article he read as a teenager. From the tumultuous streets of 1970s Belfast to the vast expanses of Australia, Chris recounts his experiences and the challenges of self-publishing his book after numerous rejections from traditional publishers. The conversation delves into the emotional highs and lows of his travels, the writing process, and the personal growth he experienced over the 40 years it took to complete his memoir.

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Additional Resources

Website - www.blackheartedstudios.com

Freebie link - https://bit.ly/h2bebook

Massiel's Email - [email protected]

Massiel's Coach.Me site - https://www.coach.me/massielwrites

Instagram - www.instagram.com/massielwrites

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/massiel-valenzuela-castaneda/

Facebook  - www.facebook.com/howtowriteabookpodcast

___________________________________________________________________________________________________

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_______________________________________________________________________________________________________

Follow Chris

Chris Donaldson's website - http://chrisdonaldson.world/

Chris Donaldson's Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/goingthewrongway_book

________________________________________________________________________________________________________

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Guest: Guy Morris

Episode Name: From Homeless Runaway to Acclaimed Author: Guy Morris on Blending History, Technology, and Thrills in Writing

Episode Number: 253

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About the guest

Guy Morris, a retired executive with a 38-year career in Fortune 100 companies in software, high-tech, and global energy, has also been a published songwriter for Disney Records, a patented inventor, a Coast Guard charter captain, and an adventurer. Now a self-published author of thrillers, Guy draws from his diverse experiences—from cartel death threats in Latin America to shark diving in Moorea, and from homelessness to corporate jets—to write books that thrill, educate, and inspire. Since his 2021 debut, he has released three acclaimed thrillers inspired by true stories, earning accolades like BookTrib’s Best 25 Books of 2021 and Reader’s Favorite Gold and Silver Awards. His articles have been featured in SD Voyager and Mystery & Suspense magazines. In early 2022, he founded the Author Event Network, a non-profit association where local authors collaborate to engage readers and sell books at community events and festivals.

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In this episode, Massiel interviews Guy Morris, an accomplished author known for his intelligent action thrillers. Guy shares his remarkable journey from being a homeless runaway to a successful Fortune 500 executive and acclaimed writer. They discuss the depth and intrigue of his books, such as "The Curse of Cortez" and "SWARM," which blend real history, technology, and thrilling narratives. Guy emphasizes the importance of research in his writing process, creating compelling stories that captivate and educate readers, making them both entertaining and thought-provoking.

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Additional Resources

Website - www.blackheartedstudios.com

Freebie link - https://bit.ly/h2bebook

Massiel's Email - [email protected]

Massiel's Coach.Me site - https://www.coach.me/massielwrites

Instagram - www.instagram.com/massielwrites

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/massiel-valenzuela-castaneda/

Facebook  - www.facebook.com/howtowriteabookpodcast

___________________________________________________________________________________________________

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_______________________________________________________________________________________________________

Follow Guy

Guy Morris' website - https://www.guymorrisbooks.com/

Guy Morris' Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/authorguymorris/

________________________________________________________________________________________________________

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Guest: Kirsten Rudberg

Episode Name: From Seminary to Storytelling: Kirsten Rudberg's Creative Journey

Episode Number: 252

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About the guest

Kirsten Rudberg is an author and ordained clergy in the Church of Universal Interfaith, holding a Master's of Divinity. A panentheist with a diverse background, having lived in countries like Guyana and Pakistan, Kirsten's worldview is shaped by her global experiences and deep interest in how people create meaning through myths, fairy tales, and religious texts. She is the author of a socially conscious rewrite of the Peter Rabbit series, addressing issues such as environmental degradation and human trafficking. Kirsten's creative process is deeply spiritual, viewing herself as a vessel for higher creative energies.

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In this episode, Massiel's guest, Kirsten Rudberg, who holds a Master’s of Divinity and identifies as a panentheist, discussed her unique background living overseas and how it shaped her views on the world and her writing. She introduced her book series, a modern and socially conscious take on Beatrix Potter's tales, tackling issues like environmental degradation and human trafficking. Kirsten emphasized the importance of timing in the creative process and shared insights on how the pandemic provided her the space to bring these long-held ideas to fruition. She also touched on her unconventional yet deeply spiritual writing process, describing it as a partnership with a higher creative force.

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Additional Resources

Website - www.blackheartedstudios.com

Freebie link - https://bit.ly/h2bebook

Massiel's Email - [email protected]

Massiel's Coach.Me site - https://www.coach.me/massielwrites

Instagram - www.instagram.com/massielwrites

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/massiel-valenzuela-castaneda/

Facebook  - www.facebook.com/howtowriteabookpodcast

___________________________________________________________________________________________________

Are you feeling overwhelmed by your never-ending to-do list?

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Discover the ultimate solution for regaining control with Paula, your dedicated virtual assistant. She'll help you manage your calendar, handle email, conduct research, social media management, and even mix and stitch together your podcast episodes. Don't let your to-do list overwhelm you any longer. Get started today!

______________________________________________________________________________________________________

About Kirsten

Kirsten Rudberg's website - https://bytesizedblessings.com/

Kirsten Rudberg's Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/bytesizedblessingspod

Kirsten Rudberg's Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/bytesizedblessings

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Guest: S.G. Blaise

Episode Name: S.G. Blaise on Awards, Inspiration, and Independent Publishing

Episode Number: 251

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About the guest

S.G. Blaise was born and raised in Europe, where she wrote her first short story at the age of ten, inspired by a nightmare. Although she didn’t initially see herself as a writer and wasn’t fond of reading, her passion for books ignited at thirteen when she finally read a book recommended by her father. In 2012, a transformative road trip across Europe sparked an idea for a story. Despite English not being her first language, Blaise was determined to write her first book. Encouraged by her husband, she dedicated herself to writing and refining her craft. After attending workshops and joining critique groups, she spent years perfecting her manuscript, resulting in the successful launch of her writing career.

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In this episode, Massiel interviews S.G. Blaise, an award-winning author of the Last Lumenian series. Blaise shares her journey from writing her first story in Hungarian to becoming a successful independent author in English. She discusses the challenges and rewards of self-publishing, the importance of finding your author voice, and the dedication required to maintain a writing and publishing schedule. Blaise also offers valuable insights into engaging with readers and navigating the indie publishing landscape.

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Additional Resources

Website - www.blackheartedstudios.com

Freebie link - https://bit.ly/h2bebook

Massiel's Email - [email protected]

Massiel's Coach.Me site - https://www.coach.me/massielwrites

Instagram - www.instagram.com/massielwrites

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/massiel-valenzuela-castaneda/

Facebook  - www.facebook.com/howtowriteabookpodcast

___________________________________________________________________________________________________

Are you feeling overwhelmed by your never-ending to-do list?

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Discover the ultimate solution for regaining control with Paula, your dedicated virtual assistant. She'll help you manage your calendar, handle email, conduct research, social media management, and even mix and stitch together your podcast episodes. Don't let your to-do list overwhelm you any longer. Get started today!

__________________________________________________________________________________________________

Follow S.G. Blaise

S.G. Blaise website - https://sgblaise.com/

S.G. Blaise Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/sgblaiseofficial

___________________________________________________________________________________________________

Like, share, or leave a review on Apple Podcasts and subscribe to our YouTube channel (Blackhearted Studios)   

Guest: Richard Lowe

Episode Name: Mastering the Business and Craft of Ghostwriting: An Interview with Richard Lowe

Episode Number: 250

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About the guest

After over 33 years in the computer and IT industry, Richard transitioned from his role as Director of Computer Operations at Trader Joe’s to become a professional writer and ghostwriter. Richard has authored numerous articles and ghostwritten books on diverse subjects such as memoirs, business, and computer security. He has also published his books, including *Safe Computing is Like Safe Sex* and *Real World Survival Tips and Survival Guide*. An avid photographer and adventurer, Richard has captured various events and festivals, including the Tournament of Roses parade. Currently, he is working on a series of short Kindle eBooks and a ten-volume science fiction series. Richard is passionate about human rights and aims to educate and inspire through his writing.

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In this insightful episode, Massiel interviews Richard Lowe, an experienced ghostwriter and freelancer. Lowe shares valuable advice on managing the business aspects of freelancing, such as handling taxes, acquiring necessary licenses, and considering incorporation for financial benefits. He emphasizes the importance of accurately capturing a client's voice through detailed interviews and recording conversations to avoid disputes and ensure proper compensation for revisions. Lowe also discusses the significance of maintaining project control and managing client relationships effectively. The episode concludes with Lowe's future plans, including writing a ghostwriting book and delivering a TED talk, offering inspiration and practical tips for aspiring writers.

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Additional Resources

Website - www.blackheartedstudios.com

Freebie link - https://bit.ly/h2bebook

Massiel's Email - [email protected]

Massiel's Coach.Me site - https://www.coach.me/massielwrites

Instagram - www.instagram.com/massielwrites

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/massiel-valenzuela-castaneda/

Facebook  - www.facebook.com/howtowriteabookpodcast

___________________________________________________________________________________________________

Are you feeling overwhelmed by your never-ending to-do list?

Check out Paula, the Ultimate VA! https://pearlzconsulting11.wixsite.com/pearlz-va-services

Discover the ultimate solution for regaining control with Paula, your dedicated virtual assistant. She'll help you manage your calendar, handle email, conduct research, social media management, and even mix and stitch together your podcast episodes. Don't let your to-do list overwhelm you any longer. Get started today!

________________________________________________________________________________________________

Follow Richard 

Richard Lowe's website - https://thewritingking.com/

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Like, share, or leave a review on Apple Podcasts and subscribe to our YouTube channel (Blackhearted Studios)   

Guest: Tyler Schwanke

Episode Name: Resilience and Innovation: Overcoming Challenges with Tyler Schwanke 

Episode Number: 249

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About guest

Tyler Schwanke is a writer and a filmmaker. He holds an MFA from Hamline University, and his short stories have been widely published in online journals and literary magazines including CHAOTIC MERGE, HAVIK, and FICTION SOUTHEAST. He is also a graduate of the New York Film Academy and Minnesota State University Moorhead, where he was awarded a Minnesota Film and TV Grant. Several of his award-winning short films have played at festivals across the country. Tyler lives in Minneapolis with his wife and their dog. BREAKING IN is his debut novel.

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In this insightful podcast interview, Massiel delves into the inspiring journey of a visionary who transformed challenges into triumphs. The conversation highlights the guest's unique approach to overcoming obstacles, the importance of perseverance, and the pivotal moments that shaped their path to success. Through engaging anecdotes and practical advice, listeners are offered valuable lessons on resilience, innovation, and the power of a positive mindset. This episode is a must-listen for anyone seeking motivation and actionable strategies to navigate their own personal and professional hurdles.

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Additional Resources

Website - www.blackheartedstudios.com

Freebie link - https://bit.ly/h2bebook

Massiel's Email - [email protected]

Massiel's Coach.Me site - https://www.coach.me/massielwrites

Instagram - www.instagram.com/massielwrites

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/massiel-valenzuela-castaneda/

Facebook  - www.facebook.com/howtowriteabookpodcast

___________________________________________________________________________________________________

Are you feeling overwhelmed by your never-ending to-do list?

Check out Paula, the Ultimate VA! https://pearlzconsulting11.wixsite.com/pearlz-va-services

Discover the ultimate solution for regaining control with Paula, your dedicated virtual assistant. She'll help you manage your calendar, handle email, conduct research, social media management, and even mix and stitch together your podcast episodes. Don't let your to-do list overwhelm you any longer. Get started today!

________________________________________________________________________________________________

Follow Tyler

Tyler Schwanke's website - www.tylerschwanke.com

Tyler Schwanke's Instagram - www.instagram.com/tschwankes

__________________________________________________________________________________________________

Like, share, or leave a review on Apple Podcasts and subscribe to our YouTube channel (Blackhearted Studios)   

Guest: Michelle Glogovac

Episode Name: Empowering Authors: Navigating Publishing Challenges and Podcast Pitching with Michelle Glogovac

Episode Number: 248

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About the guest

Michelle Glogovac (San Jose, California), aka THE Podcast Matchmaker™, is an award-winning podcast publicist and host of the My Simplified Life podcast. She matches her clients with the perfect podcast hosts and teaches them how to share their story, vision, and expertise in ways that generate new business opportunities. Michelle speaks on a variety of topics, including PR, entrepreneurship, and life lessons and has interviewed and worked with Emmy Award winners, international bestselling authors, advocates and activists, and many other individuals. She is the founder and CEO of The MLG Collective®, a podcast public relations agency.

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In this engaging podcast episode, Massiel interviews Michelle Glogovac, who shares her journey of prioritizing her life after a health scare at 41, leading her to focus on meaningful projects like getting her book published. Despite facing challenges such as the sudden shutdown of her publisher's business department, Michelle's determination and adaptability shine through. She discusses the importance of authors pitching themselves on podcasts, emphasizing the power of personal storytelling to connect with audiences. Michelle also highlights her podcast book tour service, which helps authors secure interviews to promote their books. Overall, the conversation underscores the transformative impact of sharing stories and the value of flexibility in pursuing one's goals.

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Additional Resources

Website - www.blackheartedstudios.com

Freebie link - https://bit.ly/h2bebook

Massiel's Email - [email protected]

Massiel's Coach.Me site - https://www.coach.me/massielwrites

Instagram - www.instagram.com/massielwrites

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/massiel-valenzuela-castaneda/

Facebook  - www.facebook.com/howtowriteabookpodcast

___________________________________________________________________________________________________

Are you feeling overwhelmed by your never-ending to-do list?

Check out Paula, the Ultimate VA! https://pearlzconsulting11.wixsite.com/pearlz-va-services

Discover the ultimate solution for regaining control with Paula, your dedicated virtual assistant. She'll help you manage your calendar, handle email, conduct research, social media management, and even mix and stitch together your podcast episodes. Don't let your to-do list overwhelm you any longer. Get started today!

________________________________________________________________________________________________

Follow Michelle

Michelle Glogovac's website - https://michelleglogovac.com/

Michelle Glogovac's Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/michelleglogovac/

__________________________________________________________________________________________________

Like, share, or leave a review on Apple Podcasts and subscribe to our YouTube channel (Blackhearted Studios)   

Guest: Joel David Bond

Episode Name: Crafting Memoirs with Joel David Bond: Overcoming Writer's Block and Embracing Creativity

Episode Number: 247

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About the guest

Joel David Bond is dedicated to helping people navigate their cultural world with mindful intention, fostering empathy and understanding across borders. With a profound belief in the power of travel to create a more empathic world, Joel brings a unique perspective to every journey, drawing from over 20 years of overseas living and cross-cultural experience, as well as a master's degree in education and a background as a global flight attendant.

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In this episode, Massiel interviews author Joel David Bond about his writing journey and book "As Large as Your Spirit: A Reverse Refugee Memoir." Joel discusses the challenges of sharing his story and battling writer's block, emphasizing the importance of discipline in the writing process. He shares insights into the positive reception of his book and his experiment with using AI tools to overcome creative blocks. Throughout the conversation, Joel offers motivational advice for aspiring writers, highlighting the need to prioritize consistency and perseverance. 

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Additional Resources

Website - www.blackheartedstudios.com

Freebie link - https://bit.ly/h2bebook

Massiel's Email - [email protected]

Massiel's Coach.Me site - https://www.coach.me/massielwrites

Instagram - www.instagram.com/massielwrites

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/massiel-valenzuela-castaneda/

Facebook  - www.facebook.com/howtowriteabookpodcast

_____________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Are you feeling overwhelmed by your never-ending to-do list?

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Discover the ultimate solution for regaining control with Paula, your dedicated virtual assistant. She'll help you manage your calendar, handle email, conduct research, social media management, and even mix and stitch together your podcast episodes. Don't let your to-do list overwhelm you any longer. Get started today!

_______________________________________________________________________________________________________

Follow Joel

Joel David Bond's website - https://www.joeldavidbond.com/

Joel David Bond's Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/joeldavidbond

Joel David Bond's Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/joeldavidbond/

_________________________________________________________________________________________________________

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Guest: Michael Pickard

Episode Name: Creative Insights: A Conversation with Children's Author Michael Pickard

Episode Number: 246

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About the guest

Michael Pickard’s writing serves as the bridge between his professional work in technology and his passion for the creative arts. Dozens of Pickard's short stories have been published, including Hardwired, which won a Ray Bradbury Creative Writing Prize in 2005. Pickard’s extensive background working with cutting edge technology has proved helpful for imagining fictive universes and societies. Strong satire keeps readers grounded, thinking, and laughing.

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In this episode, Massiel interviews Michael Pickard, a children's book author, and discusses his writing process, inspiration, and upcoming projects. Michael shares how his grandson's request led to the creation of "The Boy Who Sneezed Money" and his involvement in the "Mid Knights" series. He explains his approach to organization, emphasizing control over his writing process, and shares insights into knowing when a book is complete. Michael also discusses his creative inspirations, including getting ideas during hot showers, and shares details about his upcoming books, such as "Creative Deductions" and "Aliens of Mediocre Intelligence." Throughout the interview, Massiel and Michael engage in a warm and insightful conversation about writing and creativity, providing listeners with valuable tips and inspiration.

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Additional Resources

Website - www.blackheartedstudios.com

Freebie link - https://bit.ly/h2bebook

Massiel's Email - [email protected]

Massiel's Coach.Me site - https://www.coach.me/massielwrites

Instagram - www.instagram.com/massielwrites

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/massiel-valenzuela-castaneda/

Facebook  - www.facebook.com/howtowriteabookpodcast

_____________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Are you feeling overwhelmed by your never-ending to-do list?

Check out Paula, the Ultimate VA! https://pearlzconsulting11.wixsite.com/pearlz-va-services

Discover the ultimate solution for regaining control with Paula, your dedicated virtual assistant. She'll help you manage your calendar, handle email, conduct research, social media management, and even mix and stitch together your podcast episodes. Don't let your to-do list overwhelm you any longer. Get started today!

_________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Follow Michael

Michael Pickard's Amazon - https://www.amazon.com/stores/author/B000APFNIO

Michael Pickard's Goodreads - https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/1836592.Michael_Pickard

________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Like, share, or leave a review on Apple Podcasts and subscribe to our YouTube channel (Blackhearted Studios)