The Savvy Scribe

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In this episode of The Savvy Scribe, Janine sits down with Shaun Chavis, a former journalist, editorial director, and content marketing consultant, to talk about who actually hires nurse writers. Shaun shares her perspective from years of hiring health professionals for editorial and content marketing roles in media and health tech companies.

If you’re a nurse curious about freelance writing—or a beginner who hasn’t landed your first client yet—this episode pulls back the curtain on what hiring managers look for, why nurses are highly valued in health content, and how to position your expertise to attract the right opportunities.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode

• Who actually hires nurse writers in today’s content landscape
• Why nurses often have an advantage over generalist health writers
• How clinical experience helps writers interpret studies and explain health topics clearly
• What hiring managers look for when reviewing pitches and writing samples
• Why subject matter expertise makes writing faster and more valuable
• How to evaluate startups as potential writing clients
• The difference between transactional marketing and long-term content strategy
• Why writers should think of articles as long-term business assets
• How clear, plain language improves health communication
• How platforms like Substack are creating new opportunities for writers and brands

Welcome to the Savvy Scribe Podcast, I'm so glad you're here! Before we start the show, if you're interested, we have a free Facebook group called "Savvy Nurse Writer Community"

I appreciate you following me and listening today. I would LOVE for you to subscribe: ITUNES

And if you love it, can I ask for a Savvy Nurse Writer Community on Facebook and visit savvynursewriter.com to help you get started today!

Support the show

FOLLOW & REVIEW THE SAVVY SCRIBE ON APPLE PODCASTS

I appreciate you following me and listening today. I would LOVE for you to subscribe: ITUNES

And if you love it, can I ask for a review? Select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review.”

If you’re ready to start exploring if freelance writing is your next PRN job or even full-time, I invite you to check out the Savvy Nurse Writer Community on Facebook and the Plan Produce Profit  + Writing Skills Course to help you get started today!

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Today’s guest of The Savvy Scribe podcast is Susie Wraines, an entrepreneur and host of the Starting a Business Simplified podcast, to talk about something every nurse already has—but may not recognize: transferable skills.

From the bedside to business ownership, Susie shares how her background in business, the Army, and veterinary medicine shaped her entrepreneurial path. Together, we unpack how nurses can translate clinical experience into entrepreneurship, nurse writing, leadership roles, or any new direction they feel called to pursue.

If you’ve ever thought, “I don’t know anything about business,” this episode will challenge that belief.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode

• Why nurses are naturally equipped to become entrepreneurs
• How to identify and articulate transferable skills
• The mindset shifts required when leaving bedside
• How to build a portfolio for nurse writing or other roles
• Why resourcefulness matters more than being “the smartest” person
• How to normalize discomfort during career transitions
• The connection between nervous system regulation and business growth

Welcome to the Savvy Scribe Podcast, I'm so glad you're here! Before we start the show, if you're interested, we have a free Facebook group called "Savvy Nurse Writer Community"

I appreciate you following me and listening today. I would LOVE for you to subscribe: ITUNES

And if you love it, can I ask for a Savvy Nurse Writer Community on Facebook and visit savvynursewriter.com to help you get started today!

Support the show

FOLLOW & REVIEW THE SAVVY SCRIBE ON APPLE PODCASTS

I appreciate you following me and listening today. I would LOVE for you to subscribe: ITUNES

And if you love it, can I ask for a review? Select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review.”

If you’re ready to start exploring if freelance writing is your next PRN job or even full-time, I invite you to check out the Savvy Nurse Writer Community on Facebook and the Plan Produce Profit  + Writing Skills Course to help you get started today!

Send us Fan Mail

In this episode of The Savvy Scribe podcast, Janine sits down with freelance writer Emily to explore the evolving role of AI in healthcare writing. From ethical concerns to practical applications, they unpack how AI has transformed the writing landscape—and what it means for nurse writers moving forward.

AI in Healthcare Writing

What You’ll Learn in This Episode

• How AI has changed freelance writing since 2019
• Ethical concerns around AI-generated healthcare content
• Why AI should be treated as a tool—not a replacement for writers
• How to responsibly use AI in your writing workflow
• What the future may hold for writers in an AI-driven world

Key Takeaways

• AI can speed up workflows, but it requires strong writing fundamentals to use effectively
• Healthcare content demands accuracy, making human expertise essential
• AI can confidently present misinformation, so fact-checking is critical
• Transparency with clients about using AI in healthcare writing is especially important
• Writers who adapt and expand their skills (like content strategy) will stay competitive
• Storytelling and human-centered content may become even more valuable in the future

Welcome to the Savvy Scribe Podcast, I'm so glad you're here! Before we start the show, if you're interested, we have a free Facebook group called "Savvy Nurse Writer Community"

I appreciate you following me and listening today. I would LOVE for you to subscribe: ITUNES

And if you love it, can I ask for a Savvy Nurse Writer Community on Facebook and visit savvynursewriter.com to help you get started today!

Support the show

FOLLOW & REVIEW THE SAVVY SCRIBE ON APPLE PODCASTS

I appreciate you following me and listening today. I would LOVE for you to subscribe: ITUNES

And if you love it, can I ask for a review? Select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review.”

If you’re ready to start exploring if freelance writing is your next PRN job or even full-time, I invite you to check out the Savvy Nurse Writer Community on Facebook and the Plan Produce Profit  + Writing Skills Course to help you get started today!

Send us Fan Mail

Dr. Farah shares the real story behind her pivot from ER nurse to nurse career coach and business owner. You’ll learn how your personal story can fuel your brand identity, the importance of visibility in business, and how to stand out in a saturated market—even as a nurse writer. This episode is packed with tangible advice for nurses ready to build something of their own.

About Dr. Farah Laurent

Nurse entrepreneur and founder of Nurses Making Business Moves Conference! Nurse career coach who’s coached over 200 nurses to land their dream role making 6 figures! Author, podcaster, and keynote speaker!

Key Takeaways

• The early resistance Farah faced—and how it fueled her purpose and mission
• Why personal brand is your reputation and how to actively manage it
• How to turn your story into a brand that builds trust and attracts clients
• The value of niching down to speak directly to your ideal audience
• Visibility strategies: showing up on video, creating educational content, and networking
• Why testimonials and referrals are powerful tools for growing your credibility
• The difference between a business idea and a real business opportunity
• The must-have elements before launching your brand and business
• Practical tips for nurse writers: building authority, creating content, and connecting authentically
• Why consistency matters more than perfection

Welcome to the Savvy Scribe Podcast, I'm so glad you're here! Before we start the show, if you're interested, we have a free Facebook group called "Savvy Nurse Writer Community"

I appreciate you following me and listening today. I would LOVE for you to subscribe: ITUNES

And if you love it, can I ask for a Savvy Nurse Writer Community on Facebook and visit savvynursewriter.com to help you get started today!

Support the show

FOLLOW & REVIEW THE SAVVY SCRIBE ON APPLE PODCASTS

I appreciate you following me and listening today. I would LOVE for you to subscribe: ITUNES

And if you love it, can I ask for a review? Select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review.”

If you’re ready to start exploring if freelance writing is your next PRN job or even full-time, I invite you to check out the Savvy Nurse Writer Community on Facebook and the Plan Produce Profit  + Writing Skills Course to help you get started today!

Send us Fan Mail

We’re closing in on the final episodes of 2025, and what better way to wrap up the year than with a heartfelt and honest year-end review of your writing business? Janine takes you through a no-fluff, reflection-packed session that’ll help you enter 2026 with confidence and clarity.

Year-End Writing Business Review Without Overwhelm

Today on the Savvy Scribe Podcast:

• How to evaluate your wins—personal, financial, and professional
• Why failure is feedback and how to shift your mindset
• What didn’t work this year and how to pivot
• The importance of emotional agility in business
• How to set intentional goals and boundaries for 2026
• Tips to avoid wasting time on activities with no ROI

Key Takeaways

• Wins are more than outcomes—they’re also decisions and risks you took. Celebrate them all.
• Business failures aren’t the end. They’re just data guiding your next move.
• Nurses are uniquely equipped to handle emotional shifts in business—leverage that.
• Reflecting honestly on what didn’t work helps you grow faster.
• Delete distractions and reclaim your time.
• Write your dream business headline for 2026—dream big and back it up with clear Q1 goals.
• Set boundaries and adopt a winner’s mindset to maintain clarity and direction.

Welcome to the Savvy Scribe Podcast, I'm so glad you're here! Before we start the show, if you're interested, we have a free Facebook group called "Savvy Nurse Writer Community"

I appreciate you following me and listening today. I would LOVE for you to subscribe: ITUNES

And if you love it, can I ask for a Savvy Nurse Writer Community on Facebook and visit savvynursewriter.com to help you get started today!

Support the show

FOLLOW & REVIEW THE SAVVY SCRIBE ON APPLE PODCASTS

I appreciate you following me and listening today. I would LOVE for you to subscribe: ITUNES

And if you love it, can I ask for a review? Select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review.”

If you’re ready to start exploring if freelance writing is your next PRN job or even full-time, I invite you to check out the Savvy Nurse Writer Community on Facebook and the Plan Produce Profit  + Writing Skills Course to help you get started today!

Send us Fan Mail

In this inspiring episode of The Savvy Scribe Podcast, Janine welcomes Alyssa, a fellow nurse and member of the Savvy Nurse Writer community. Alyssa shares how she transitioned from bedside nursing and teaching to becoming a successful freelance writer—all while raising a toddler and growing her family.

Her story is full of honest reflection, real-life challenges, and powerful mindset shifts. Whether you’re just getting started or wondering if freelancing is really possible for you, Alyssa’s journey proves it’s more than possible—it’s worth it.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode About Building a Freelance Writing Business

• The transition from nurse to writer: Alyssa shares how she discovered freelance writing after years in OB, NICU, and nursing education.
• Treating it like a business: She explains how shifting her mindset from “side gig” to “business” helped her replace her teaching income.
• Real-life balance: Alyssa gives us a look at her daily life as a part-time stay-at-home mom and full-time writer—complete with nap-time writing sessions and toddler cameos.
• The power of tracking income: Once she started tracking her projects and income, Alyssa realized she was making real money—and that gave her the confidence to keep going.
• Letting go of the wrong clients: Alyssa shares how dropping one draining client opened the door for better ones and gave her business new energy.
• Membership insights: She highlights how the Plan, Produce, Profit membership gave her clarity, support, and confidence through resources like templates, the writing skills course, and coaching calls.
• Advice for new writers: Just start. Reach out. Take the first step. The worst they can say is no.
• Looking ahead to 2026: Alyssa plans to finish the PPP course, revamp her website, and continue growing intentionally while balancing business and family life.

Welcome to the Savvy Scribe Podcast, I'm so glad you're here! Before we start the show, if you're interested, we have a free Facebook group called "Savvy Nurse Writer Community"

I appreciate you following me and listening today. I would LOVE for you to subscribe: ITUNES

And if you love it, can I ask for a Savvy Nurse Writer Community on Facebook and visit savvynursewriter.com to help you get started today!

Support the show

FOLLOW & REVIEW THE SAVVY SCRIBE ON APPLE PODCASTS

I appreciate you following me and listening today. I would LOVE for you to subscribe: ITUNES

And if you love it, can I ask for a review? Select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review.”

If you’re ready to start exploring if freelance writing is your next PRN job or even full-time, I invite you to check out the Savvy Nurse Writer Community on Facebook and the Plan Produce Profit  + Writing Skills Course to help you get started today!

Send us Fan Mail

As the year wraps up, it’s the perfect time to reflect on how far you’ve come—and start thinking about what’s next. In this solo episode, Janine shares how practicing gratitude can support a stronger, more aligned business plan as you move into a new season.

You’ll hear her personal reflections, lessons learned, and a mindset reset strategy that will help you rise with purpose in the year ahead.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode About Your Business Plan

You’ll walk away with practical ways to use gratitude and reflection as tools to assess, refocus, and build a more intentional business plan.

Key Takeaways

• How to reflect on your year with gratitude—even if parts of it were hard
• The surprising way community can fast-track your progress and confidence
• A mindset shift to help you let go of what’s holding your business back
• How to emotionally “declutter” before planning for a new year
• A three-step framework—Reflect, Reset, and Rise—to guide your next business plan
• Why starting small, even when it’s scary, is better than staying stuck

Welcome to the Savvy Scribe Podcast, I'm so glad you're here! Before we start the show, if you're interested, we have a free Facebook group called "Savvy Nurse Writer Community"

I appreciate you following me and listening today. I would LOVE for you to subscribe: ITUNES

And if you love it, can I ask for a Savvy Nurse Writer Community on Facebook and visit savvynursewriter.com to help you get started today!

Support the show

FOLLOW & REVIEW THE SAVVY SCRIBE ON APPLE PODCASTS

I appreciate you following me and listening today. I would LOVE for you to subscribe: ITUNES

And if you love it, can I ask for a review? Select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review.”

If you’re ready to start exploring if freelance writing is your next PRN job or even full-time, I invite you to check out the Savvy Nurse Writer Community on Facebook and the Plan Produce Profit  + Writing Skills Course to help you get started today!

Send us Fan Mail

Welcome to another episode of The Savvy Scribe Podcast! Today, I am joined by Glenn Poulos, a top voice on LinkedIn and a seasoned sales expert with over 40 years of experience. Glenn shares insights from his career and his book Never Sit in the Lobby, offering practical and actionable tips to help freelance writers and business owners master the art of sales and negotiation.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode About Proposal and Negotiation Strategies

In this episode, Glenn dives into his decades-long sales journey and provides freelance writers with proven techniques to confidently approach proposal negotiations and client communications. He emphasizes the importance of showing up—whether in person or on camera—and creating meaningful connections.

Key Takeaways

• Sales wisdom from the field: Glenn shares his journey from working in the Canadian government to building and selling two successful tech companies—and what he learned about sales along the way.
• Why face-to-face still matters: Whether physically or virtually, being present with clients builds trust and improves outcomes.
• Top tips from Never Sit in the Lobby:

> Never sit in the lobby: Be ready, be present, and make an impression.

> Have something in your hand and something in your heart: Always bring value to the conversation—literally and figuratively.

> Always ask for a mini tour: Go beyond the surface to learn more about your client’s needs.

> Never forget a face: Remembering names and faces builds rapport and social proof.

• Negotiation tips for freelancers:

> Know your non-negotiables and walk-away points.

> Silence is a powerful tool—don’t talk yourself into a discount.

> Understand the chain of decision-makers—start high and get referred down.

> “Freedom begins with no”—learn when and how to stand firm.

Welcome to the Savvy Scribe Podcast, I'm so glad you're here! Before we start the show, if you're interested, we have a free Facebook group called "Savvy Nurse Writer Community"

I appreciate you following me and listening today. I would LOVE for you to subscribe: ITUNES

And if you love it, can I ask for a Savvy Nurse Writer Community on Facebook and visit savvynursewriter.com to help you get started today!

Support the show

FOLLOW & REVIEW THE SAVVY SCRIBE ON APPLE PODCASTS

I appreciate you following me and listening today. I would LOVE for you to subscribe: ITUNES

And if you love it, can I ask for a review? Select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review.”

If you’re ready to start exploring if freelance writing is your next PRN job or even full-time, I invite you to check out the Savvy Nurse Writer Community on Facebook and the Plan Produce Profit  + Writing Skills Course to help you get started today!

Send us Fan Mail

As 2025 comes to a close, it’s time to pause, reflect, and reset. In this solo episode of The Savvy Scribe, Janine walks you through an intentional end-of-year reflection—one that goes beyond business and dives into your personal and financial wins, your challenges, and how to turn failures into feedback.

Whether you’ve had a successful year or feel like things didn’t go as planned, this episode is a helpful reset before goal-setting in January.

End-of-Year Reflection for Nurse Writers and Entrepreneurs

What You’ll Learn:

• Why year-end reflection is critical to your business growth
• How to identify your wins (big or small — yes, sending 10 pitches counts!)
• What didn’t work this year — and how to use failure as feedback
• The importance of examples when working with clients
• How to reset your mindset and avoid “carrying the weight” into 2026
• The difference between winners and losers (inspired by a powerful quote from the Huberman Lab podcast)
• Practical steps for setting 3 actionable Q1 goals + a personal boundary
• The ONE question that can help you define your dream business headline for 2026

Key Takeaways

• How to recognize and record your wins—personal, business, and financial
• Why even unsuccessful pitches or flopped projects are worth celebrating
• The importance of identifying what didn’t work and reframing failure as feedback
• Why emotional resilience, especially as a nurse, gives you an edge in business
• How to shift your mindset from “loser” to “winner” (inspired by Huberman Lab)
• Tips for setting a bold, motivating headline for your 2026 business vision
• A preview of what’s coming in January for goal setting and planning
• The power of setting personal boundaries and choosing a growth mindset

Welcome to the Savvy Scribe Podcast, I'm so glad you're here! Before we start the show, if you're interested, we have a free Facebook group called "Savvy Nurse Writer Community"

I appreciate you following me and listening today. I would LOVE for you to subscribe: ITUNES

And if you love it, can I ask for a Savvy Nurse Writer Community on Facebook and visit savvynursewriter.com to help you get started today!

Support the show

FOLLOW & REVIEW THE SAVVY SCRIBE ON APPLE PODCASTS

I appreciate you following me and listening today. I would LOVE for you to subscribe: ITUNES

And if you love it, can I ask for a review? Select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review.”

If you’re ready to start exploring if freelance writing is your next PRN job or even full-time, I invite you to check out the Savvy Nurse Writer Community on Facebook and the Plan Produce Profit  + Writing Skills Course to help you get started today!

Send us Fan Mail

In this episode, we sit down with marketing strategist Gee Ranasinha to explore what the future of marketing really looks like — and why many businesses are getting it wrong.

Despite the rise of AI and automation tools, marketing’s core hasn’t changed: it’s still about understanding human behavior. Gee breaks down the power of behavioral science, emotional triggers, and brand distinctiveness to explain how businesses can create marketing that sticks.

If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by marketing technology or struggled to stand out in a crowded market, this conversation will challenge your assumptions and give you a fresh perspective.

Why is Psychology the Future Of Marketing

• Behavioral Science and Buyer Psychology
• What Went Wrong with Modern Marketing
• Why Emotion Is the Foundation of Memorable Marketing
• The Real Drivers of B2B Decision-Making
• Brand Positioning that Actually Works
• What Most Businesses Get Wrong About AI and Tools
• Why Standing Out Matters More Than Ever

Actionable Takeaways:

• Talk to your customers every week — their language and feedback are your marketing gold.
• Don’t start with websites, tools, or ads. Start with positioning.
• Build your marketing strategy around emotional connection and perceived value.
• Differentiate intentionally. Safe branding leads to forgettable outcomes.
• Consider marketing a core business function — not just a set of promotional tactics.

Welcome to the Savvy Scribe Podcast, I'm so glad you're here! Before we start the show, if you're interested, we have a free Facebook group called "Savvy Nurse Writer Community"

I appreciate you following me and listening today. I would LOVE for you to subscribe: ITUNES

And if you love it, can I ask for a Savvy Nurse Writer Community on Facebook and visit savvynursewriter.com to help you get started today!

Support the show

FOLLOW & REVIEW THE SAVVY SCRIBE ON APPLE PODCASTS

I appreciate you following me and listening today. I would LOVE for you to subscribe: ITUNES

And if you love it, can I ask for a review? Select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review.”

If you’re ready to start exploring if freelance writing is your next PRN job or even full-time, I invite you to check out the Savvy Nurse Writer Community on Facebook and the Plan Produce Profit  + Writing Skills Course to help you get started today!