This chapter of the Word Weaver Podcast discusses the pros and cons of traditional publishing and self-publishing. There is also a fast-growing industry of independent publishers and hybrid publishers entering the space.

If you want to publish a book, there are multiple paths to success. It's all about choosing the avenue that is the best fit for you as an author. I'm a firm believer that if you're not getting the desired result one way, then all you have to do is retreat, and attack from a different direction.

There is a lot of information packed into this chapter so you might want to keep a pen and paper handy to jot down some notes if you're weighing the pros and cons of traditional versus self-publishing yourself. Happy writing!

On our two year anniversary, my boyfriend Geoff allowed me to interview him on the differences and difficulties that come with dating someone in a non-traditional job, specifically, a writer.

Geoff has also lived a unconventional life and has some unique insights to share about the importance of taking risks, asking yourself "What's the worst that could happen?", and why he now appreciates his corporate job despite the stresses that come along with it.

He also sheds some light on what it's like to be in a relationship with someone who goes into hibernation mode OFTEN and requires a lot of solitude and independence.

Whether you're a friend, family member, or partner of a writer, Geoff's insights are helpful to understand the strange creatures that we are and what he thinks are the three most important traits to having a healthy relationship in this industry.

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Shownotes: http://www.louiseclairejohnson.com/podcast

This chapter of The Word Weaver Podcast discusses the psychological phenomenon known as impostor syndrome as it relates to writers and other high achievers.

In the wake of Anthony Bourdain and Kate Spade’s tragic deaths, impostor syndrome wouldn’t leave my mind as I read about these two incredible storytellers with successful careers who looked like they had it all on the outside, yet suffered with internal, silent struggles.

I share some of the traits that make people more susceptible to impostor syndrome and my personal tips for overcoming it.

Note: I am not a psychologist or a doctor, so if your feelings persist beyond impostor syndrome, please know that there is always someone you can talk to and resources available. I’ve listed a few below:

- Canadian Resources: http://depressionhurts.ca/en/information/resources.aspx

- If you are experiencing thoughts of suicide, call the Suicide Prevention Lifeline : 1-800-273-TALK (1-800-273-8255)

- Anxiety and Depression Association of America: http://www.adaa.org/

Julia Cronin is the founder and designer of Svea Swim, a new Canadian swimwear brand based in Toronto, manufactured in Montreal. Julia and I chat about her desire to create a brand that makes women of all shapes and sizes feel confident and empowered in their own skin.

We also discuss her background as a costumer in the film and TV industry (most recently The Handmaid's Tale), what inspired her to enter the seemingly saturated swimsuit market, where the name came from, and why life is too short not to do all the things that you want to do.