In this episode of the Project Seed Money Podcast, host Sharissa Bradley sits down with author Cheryl Olsten to discuss her unique transition from the high-stakes world of magazine publishing to the creative realm of children's picture books.

Cheryl shares how her 14-year career running a regional magazine in New Jersey provided her with the "nitty-gritty" knowledge of printing, distribution, and marketing needed to succeed as an indie author. She dives into her visually-driven creative process, the benefits of hiring two different editors, and why she chooses to collaborate with illustrators from Italy.

Timestamps:

• 00:00 – Introduction to Cheryl Olsten.
• 00:32 – Roots in Visual Communications and Journalism.
• 01:20 – The "Garden State": Starting a regional magazine.
• 02:44 – 14 years of magazine experience and finding the story.
• 04:00 – Transitioning to children's picture books as an industry veteran.
• 08:18 – The Visual Process: Seeing the beginning and the end of a story.
• 09:25 – Collaborating with Italian illustrators and professional designers.
• 11:00 – The "Brilliant" Editing Strategy: Why Cheryl uses two editors.
• 14:18 – Navigating Hybrid Publishing and Global Distribution.
• 16:24 – Final Advice: Trusting yourself and avoiding writer's block.

Connect with Cheryl:

Website:

https://cherylolsten.com/

Instagram

@cherylolsten

Books: Available via Greenleaf Book Group, Amazon, and Barnes & Noble.

Join us on the Project Seed Money Podcast as we delve into the journeys of inspiring female authors, sharing their challenges and triumphs to empower your writing path. Don't miss an episode—subscribe now on your favorite podcast platform. For additional resources and to connect with our community, visit projectseedmoney.com. If you have a story to share, reach out to be featured in an upcoming episode.

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