Writers With Wrinkles

In this episode of Writers With Wrinkles, Beth and Lisa welcome literary agent Leslie Zampetti for an honest and insightful conversation about what makes a successful author-agent relationship. From red flags to communication tips, aspiring authors will gain clarity on how to choose the right agent and navigate the business side of publishing.

Guest Bio

Leslie Zampetti is a literary agent with Open Book Literary, representing fiction and select nonfiction for children and adults. She champions underrepresented voices, especially disabled writers, and brings deep experience as a former librarian and writer. Connect with Leslie on Instagram and Twitter @LiteraryLeslieZ or visit www.openbooklit.com.

Key Discussion Points

• What agents look for in long-term author relationships
• Red flags and green flags when evaluating literary agents
• What authors should ask before signing with an agent
• How to handle communication breakdowns or ethical concerns
• Why pivoting genres (like from middle grade to cozy mystery) can reignite creativity
• How to know if your manuscript is ready to query
• The value of writing community and peer feedback
• The emotional and professional impact of publishing delays and burnout

Conclusion

This episode is packed with actionable advice for writers navigating the intimidating world of literary representation. Leslie Zampetti pulls back the curtain on the agenting process, giving listeners a real-world look at what agents value, how decisions are made, and how writers can position themselves for long-term success. Whether you're querying your first book or considering a genre shift, this conversation will leave you empowered and informed.

Links & Resources

• Leslie’s website: www.openbooklit.com
• Instagram/Twitter: @LiteraryLeslieZ
• Leslie’s Query Submission Link: QueryTracker - Leslie Zampetti
• Mentioned Resources:
  • Association of American Literary Agents (AALA)
  • Kate Allen Fox – Scratching the Surface
  • Apples & Honey Press

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Submit your questions for “Ask Beth and Lisa” at writerswithwrinkles.net or follow us on Instagram @writerswithwrinkles.

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In this Ask Beth & Lisa episode of Writers With Wrinkles, Beth McMullen and Lisa Schmid share updates on their current writing projects and dive into hot publishing topics: copyright oversight, AI-related lawsuits, and the rules of using brand names in fiction. They also unveil details for their new First Page Feedback segment and tease an upcoming Writers With Wrinkles retreat.

Guest Bio
No guest this week—just cohosts and authors Beth McMullen (Mrs. Smith’s Spy School for Girls, Lola Benko Treasure Hunter, Secret of the Storm) and Lisa Schmid (Ollie Oxley and the Ghost), bringing candid advice and insider stories from the world of publishing.

Key Discussion Points

• Writing Updates: Lisa announces she’s pivoting from middle grade to writing cozy mysteries, while Beth wrestles with revisions on her dark psychological thriller. Both share challenges of voice, tense, and confidence in switching genres.
• Copyright Oversight: A cautionary tale about publishers failing to file proper copyrights—why authors must confirm their works are registered, the risks of neglect, and how it connects to ongoing AI lawsuits. Link  for checking your copyright status: https://copyright.gov/
• Trademark Use in Fiction: Guidelines for mentioning real brands in your writing. Neutral product mentions (Coke, Nike) are fine, but avoid negative associations that harm a brand’s reputation. Learn when to invent fictional stand-ins and why publishers sometimes over-police brand references.
• First Page Feedback: Writers can now anonymously submit the first 350 words of a work-in-progress (picture book, MG, YA, or adult) for on-air feedback. Focus is on craft, clarity, and hook. Full submission details available at writerswithwrinkles.net
• Upcoming Retreat: Beth and Lisa tease a low-pressure writing retreat designed for community building, creativity, and wine—with hints about the Mark Twain Room at their chosen venue.
• Next Episode Preview: Agent Leslie Zampetti returns to discuss red flags and best practices for author-agent relationships.

Conclusion
This episode blends practical advice with personal storytelling—whether you’re navigating genre shifts, protecting your copyrights, or deciding how to handle trademarks in your manuscript. Don’t forget to check the show notes for the copyright lookup link, submission details for First Page Feedback, and to sign up for the Writers With Wrinkles newsletter at writerswithwrinkles.net

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In this episode of Writers With Wrinkles, hosts Beth McMullen and Lisa Schmid sit down with literary agent Sheyla Knigge of Highline Literary Collective to talk about the art of building strong author-agent relationships. Sheyla shares her journey into publishing, her approach to championing authors, and the key questions every writer should ask before signing with an agent.

Guest Bio:
Sheyla Knigge is a literary agent at Highline Literary Collective with nearly two years of experience representing authors and selling books. A lifelong reader who entered agenting during the pandemic, she quickly proved her eye for marketable stories—discovering Where the Dark Stems Still by A.B. Poranek, which became a six-week New York Times bestseller. She now represents 25 clients across genres and is known for her transparency, passion for storytelling, and dedication to uplifting diverse voices.

Key Discussion Points:

• Origin story: how Sheyla transitioned from project management to slush-pile reader to full-time agent.
• Defining strong partnerships: the importance of open communication, trust, and transparency in the agent-author relationship.
• Red flags in queries: why writing outside one’s lived experience without sensitivity can be problematic, and how Sheyla evaluates submissions.
• Crucial questions for writers: why asking about an agent’s support system and mentorship is essential before signing.
• When to walk away: how gut checks, excitement about revisions, and true alignment matter more than a “big name.”
• Wish list: Sheyla’s dream project—“murderous cheerleaders,” a mashup of Bring It On meets I Know What You Did Last Summer.

Conclusion:
Sheyla Knigge reminds writers that publishing is about partnership, not desperation. Choosing the right agent means prioritizing communication, shared vision, and mutual growth over prestige. Her advice encourages authors to seek relationships that set their creative souls on fire, because the right story—and the right fit—will always find its way to readers.

Mentioned Links:

• Highline Literary Collective
• Sheyla Knigge on Instagram

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Beth and Lisa react in real-time to Taylor Swift’s engagement, connecting it to creativity, storytelling, and the writing life. They also dive into lessons on “first pages,” share a cautionary tale from a tough SCBWI conference, and tease details of their upcoming Writers With Wrinkles retreat.

Guest Bio
No guest this week—this is an Ask Beth & Lisa episode featuring co-hosts Beth McMullen and Lisa Schmid.

Key Discussion Points

• Taylor Swift’s Engagement: Beth and Lisa discuss the news, likening Taylor’s relationship to a rom-com and exploring how her songwriting may evolve now that she’s writing from happiness rather than heartbreak.
• Creativity and Emotion: How emotional upheaval, trauma, and personal history often fuel strong storytelling—and the challenge of sustaining creativity as life stabilizes.
• First Pages: Why first pages matter so much in grabbing readers, agents, and editors; common pitfalls like info-dumping; and how to balance polish without getting stuck rewriting forever.
• SCBWI Conference Flashback: A harsh “first pages” critique session that traumatized attendees serves as a cautionary tale about feedback done without kindness or actionable advice.
• Upcoming Retreat Plans: Beth and Lisa reveal they are scouting a wine-country location for the Writers With Wrinkles Workshop & Wine Retreat planned for Spring 2026. Expect fun, inspiration, and spider-free accommodations.
• The Waiting Game in Publishing: Lisa shares her experience of being on submission with a new middle-grade novel, reminding writers that rejection and silence are part of the process—and that community helps ease the wait.

Conclusion
This episode blends pop culture joy with practical writing wisdom, offering listeners both lighthearted fun and thoughtful reflection on the writing journey. Beth and Lisa invite listeners to sign up for the newsletter, follow on socials, and prepare for upcoming episodes—including an interview with agent Shayla Knigge of Highline Literary Collective dropping September 15.

Mentioned Links

• Writers With Wrinkles Website
• Think your first page is wrinkle-free? Send us up to 350 words—anonymously, of course—and find out. [full details here]

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In this episode of Writers With Wrinkles, we dive into the world of self-publishing adult fiction. Authors Barb Hopkins and Kelly Garcia share how they turned frustration with traditional publishing into indie success, building their paranormal mystery series Chronicles of a Cursed Midlife from the ground up while navigating the challenges of co-authoring and marketing.

Guest Bios:

• Barb Hopkins – A former marketing director and freelance writer turned hybrid author, Barb writes middle grade fiction and co-authors the adult Chronicles of a Cursed Midlife series. Her dual path of querying middle grade while self-publishing adult fiction demonstrates persistence and versatility.
• Kelly Garcia – Known for her humorous, feel-good paranormal fiction, Kelly co-authors the Chronicles of a Cursed Midlife series. A veteran of the querying trenches, she now thrives in indie publishing, celebrating magical chaos, found family, and creative freedom.

Key Discussion Points:

• Why Barb and Kelly chose self-publishing for their adult series.
• The inspiration behind Chronicles of a Cursed Midlife and its themes of midlife empowerment, friendship, and second chances.
• The biggest challenges in indie publishing: editing, design, distribution, and discoverability.
• Essential tools and resources: Amazon KDP, Vellum, Canva, Publisher Rocket, Bowker, and 20BooksTo50K.
• How co-authoring adds both complexity and creative energy.
• Marketing lessons from Facebook takeovers, in-person events, and building an online community.
• Barb’s dual journey: querying middle grade while finding success in adult self-publishing.

Conclusion:
Barb and Kelly’s story shows that self-publishing isn’t just a backup plan—it’s a thriving path to creative control and connection with readers. Their success with adult fiction proves that persistence, community, and smart strategy can empower authors to take charge of their careers, even while pursuing traditional goals in other genres.

Links/Info Mentioned:

• From the Mixed-Up Files…of Middle-Grade Authors: https://fromthemixedupfiles.com
• Arcane Covers by Karen Dimmick – Cover design
• Publisher Rocket – Keyword research tool
• Bowker – ISBN provider
• Kindlepreneur – Self-publishing resource
• 20BooksTo50K Facebook Group – Indie author community

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Episode Summary:
In this Ask B&L episode, Lisa interviews Beth about her work as a book coach and what aspiring authors need to know before querying. Beth shares how she supports writers through revisions, builds their confidence, and helps them reach submission-ready status.

Guest Bio:
Beth McMullen is the author of multiple middle grade novels and a seasoned book coach who works primarily with middle grade writers. Drawing from her own experience in traditional publishing, Beth helps writers finish manuscripts, tackle revisions, and prepare their work for submission with a focus on structure, accountability, and emotional support.

Key Discussion Points:

• What is a book coach? Beth explains how a coach differs from an editor or critique group and why coaching provides actionable, structured feedback.
• Common issues writers face: From missing stakes to flat pacing or starting in the wrong place, Beth identifies recurring manuscript problems and how they’re fixable.
• The first step in coaching: A conversation to define the writer’s goals—whether it’s finishing a book or preparing to query.
• The emotional side of writing: Writers often need support and affirmation; coaching includes “30% therapy.”
• Breakthrough moments: Writers go from feeling overwhelmed to finding clarity and confidence with a clear roadmap.
• Advice for stuck writers: Write a logline. If you can’t summarize your story in one sentence, you may not be clear on it yourself.
• Target audience: Beth currently works mostly with middle grade fiction writers, avoiding genres like hardcore sci-fi or nonfiction.

Conclusion:
Book coaching bridges the gap between idea and execution, offering writers not only professional guidance but also much-needed support in a solitary craft. Beth’s kind, structured, and honest approach empowers writers to believe in their work and themselves. Aspiring authors—especially those ready to query—can benefit immensely from this episode’s insights.

Mentioned Links:

• Newsletter & Cheat Sheets: www.writerswithwrinkles.net
• Beth’s Book Coaching Services: bethmcmullenbooks.com
• Upcoming Guest: Barb Hopkins on self-publishing (airing August 18)
• Instagram: @bethmcmullenbooks

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Episode Summary:
In this episode of Writers With Wrinkles, literary agent and author Joyce Sweeney joins Beth and Lisa to explore the challenges and opportunities in today’s publishing landscape. With decades of experience, Joyce shares invaluable advice for writers on market trends, querying, agent relationships, and staying resilient in a tough industry.

Guest Bio:
Joyce Sweeney is the Director of KidLit at The Seymour Agency, where they’ve worked as a literary agent for five years. Prior to agenting, Joyce spent decades as a writing coach, developmental editor, and author of 14 young adult novels and two poetry collections. With a sharp eye for story and deep empathy for authors, Joyce brings a unique blend of industry knowledge and creative passion to every project.

Key Discussion Points:

• Publishing Trends: Middle grade remains tough but not impossible; picture books are more stable, and there's growing interest in unique formats and themes like verse novels and New Age topics.
• Agenting Insights: The importance of concept and hook in a query far outweighs just beautiful prose; originality and marketability are key.
• AI in Publishing: Joyce sees no real threat from AI to traditional publishing, emphasizing that creativity, emotion, and lived experience can’t be replicated by machines.
• Advice for Writers: Write what you love, not what’s trending; publishing is cyclical and unpredictable. Persistence and a strong concept will eventually open doors.
• Red Flags & Green Flags in Queries: Be clear about your genre and word count; know your audience; don’t blindly pitch without researching agents.
• When to Walk Away: A lack of communication, refusal to share submission information, or pushing you toward predatory publishers are serious warning signs.
• What Joyce is Looking For: Unique YA stories, New Age themes in picture books (like astrology and pagan holidays), and anything that surprises her.

Conclusion:
Joyce Sweeney brings refreshing honesty and deep insight into the challenges of KidLit and the wider publishing industry. Her advice emphasizes the importance of a standout concept, a resilient mindset, and choosing the right agent-client match. Writers are encouraged to stay the course, believe in their work, and always lead with heart.

Mentioned Links:

• Podcast blog & notes: https://writerswithwrinkles.net
• The Seymour Agency: https://theseymouragency.com

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🎙️ Episode Summary:
In this bonus episode, Beth McMullen switches roles from co-host to guest to explore how to write compelling action and adventure for middle grade readers. Originally recorded for Sara Gentry's KidLit Summer Camp, this conversation is packed with practical tips and emotional insight for writers crafting page-turning stories for kids.

👩‍💼 Guest Bio:
Beth McMullen is the author of ten traditionally published novels, including the Mrs. Smith's Spy School for Girls and Secret of the Storm series. She is also the co-host of the Writers With Wrinkles podcast, founder of the You Can Write a Book Substack, and a certified book coach through Author Accelerator. With over 20 years in the publishing industry, Beth helps writers push past messy middles, plot holes, and self-doubt to write stories that matter.

💡 Key Discussion Points:

• Why action sequences are so vital in middle grade and how to compete with the fast-paced media kids consume.
• The importance of giving child protagonists agency—making decisions, facing consequences, and driving the story forward.
• Balancing high-octane action with emotional tension: why stakes don't always have to involve explosions.
• Removing adults from the foreground to allow young characters to lead the narrative.
• Tips for writing character-driven emotional arcs, even for pantsers.
• How to use tools like “The 7 Keys to Writing Stories Kids Can’t Put Down” to troubleshoot plot and pacing issues.
• Why voice, surprise, and emotional truth are non-negotiable for successful middle grade.

🔚 Conclusion:
Writing action for middle grade readers means understanding the emotional world of kids and blending it with immersive, high-energy storytelling. Whether you're plotting an epic fantasy or writing a fast-paced mystery, Beth’s insight offers both inspiration and actionable guidance.

🔗 Mentioned Links:

• Beth’s website: bethmcmullenbooks.com
• Substack: You Can Write a Book
• Free resource: The 7 Keys to Writing Stories Kids Can’t Put Down
• Visit solutionsforwriters.com to learn more about Sara Gentry's book coaching services and KidLit Summer Camp 

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In this Ask Beth & Lisa episode, the hosts dive into the complex topic of using artificial intelligence as a writing tool. They share personal anecdotes, practical strategies, and ethical considerations for writers navigating AI in the creative process.

Key Discussion Points:

• Recent Highlights: Beth and Lisa reference two previous episodes with editor Joel Brigham and encourage listeners to grab the accompanying cheat sheets at writerswithwrinkles.net by signing up for the newsletter.
• AI as a Writing Tool: The duo clarifies that AI should not be used as a ghostwriter but can serve as an effective assistant in the writing process.
• Ethical Use Cases:
  • Organizing messy revision notes into actionable workflows.
  • Generating setting-specific sensory details.
  • Providing era-specific context for historical scenes.
  • Verifying world-building consistency in fantasy and speculative fiction.
• Cautionary Insights:
  • AI-generated writing often lacks voice and over-explains.
  • Always fact-check AI outputs, especially historical or technical information.
  • Be wary of labeling files poorly—both hosts share horror stories of lost drafts and mismatched versions.
• Creative Challenges:
  • Writing and revising across genres.
  • Navigating tech hiccups and summer distractions.
  • Rediscovering joy in storytelling through character and genre shifts.

Conclusion:
Beth and Lisa emphasize that AI, when used ethically and strategically, can streamline parts of the writing process without replacing creativity. They encourage listeners to share their own AI usage stories and remind writers to trust their instincts—especially when choosing literary agents. Don’t forget to check out the private Facebook group, The Waiting Room, for peer support and upcoming questions for literary agent Leslie Zampetti’s September episode.

Mentioned Links:

• Cheat Sheets: writerswithwrinkles.net
• Facebook Group: The Waiting Room (via Writers With Wrinkles community)

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In this information-packed episode, editor Joel Brigham returns to dive deep into the art of revision, breaking down the essential steps writers must take to polish their manuscripts. From identifying critical story beats to understanding character agency and narrative pacing, Joel offers a masterclass in transforming a draft into a submission-ready novel.

Guest Bio:
Joel Brigham is a professional editor, former NBA journalist, and passionate advocate for emerging authors. With over a decade of editorial experience and a background in teaching, Joel brings deep insight into storytelling structure, character development, and the realities of the publishing industry.

Key Discussion Points:

• Revision in Phases: Joel shares his six-phase editing approach, starting with foundational story beats like the inciting incident, midpoint turn, and “all hope is lost” moment.
• Character Development: Tips on ensuring all characters—not just the protagonist—have motivation, depth, and personal arcs.
• Tension & Stakes: Why every chapter must carry tension and what makes stakes compelling enough to hook readers and agents.
• Checklist for Self-Editing: Joel outlines critical revision questions including character agency, dialogue realism, narrative voice consistency, appropriate word count, readability scores, and genre expectations.
• Avoiding Common Pitfalls: Advice on preventing rushed endings, fixing saggy middles, and using tools like the “but/therefore” method for coherent structure.
• Voice Development: Joel explains why voice can’t be forced and shares strategies to cultivate it through imitation, feedback, and cross-genre writing.
• Final Polish Tips: Encouragement to revise in focused passes, gather outside feedback, and avoid the impatience that leads to premature querying.

Conclusion:
Joel Brigham offers writers not only a clear, step-by-step path through revision, but also the inspiration to stick with it. With practical advice and a refreshing blend of honesty and encouragement, this episode is essential listening for anyone preparing to submit their manuscript.

Mentioned Links:

• for episode cheat sheets, sign up for the Writers With Wrinkles newsletter

🎧 Tune in and share with the writer in your life who’s ready to revise with purpose and confidence.

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