I’ve always operated on the assumption that most of my listeners are introverts. If you don’t think of yourself as an introvert, that doesn’t make you less of a writer, of course. But I do believe most writers feel they get their energy from being alone, and that most of the time, being around people drains them.

I certainly relate to that! Which is probably why I’m a full-time writer instead of some other job that requires me to spend time with people all day.

One of the dilemmas you have to face as an introverted writer is knowing how to navigate conferences. While we recognize the immense value of conferences and events for learning our craft and building relationships, we also have to figure out how to be involved without completely draining ourselves.

That’s why I’m excited to bring you this conversation with Ami McConnell, who runs WriterFest, a conference for writers in Nashville each November. Ami joins me to chat about what makes WriterFest unique, how to get the most out of it, how to navigate events as an introvert, and much more.

Although WriterFest has already happened in 2025, I want to give you a heads up to make plans and attend WriterFest in 2026. Make sure to get on the mailing list for WriterFest so you’re notified about updates. You can do so by visiting https://writerfestnashville.com.

Before we get into the conversation, let me tell you a bit about Ami, who in addition to being the Founder and President of WriterFest Nashville, is also the Founder and President of Ami McConnell Literary Agency.

Ami is an author, writer, and editor with over twenty years of experience in-house at major trade book publishers. Having edited numerous New York Times bestsellers and award winners, she now works with authors of all stripes to create bestselling books.

She’s a USA Today and Wall Street Journal bestseller who has collaborated with singers, songwriters, psychologists, doctors, therapists, film and TV actors, and artists. Ami also serves on the board of Women’s National Book Association/Nashville Chapter and lives in the Nashville area with her family.

You can find out more about Ami by visiting her website, https://amimcconnell.com, and the WriterFest site at https://writerfestnashville.com.

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