This week, host June Thomas talks to writer and podcaster Nichole Perkins, whose new book of personal essays is Sometimes I Trip on How Happy We Could Be. In the interview, Nichole describes the techniques she used to get in touch with early memories for the book. She also discusses the importance of clarity and her mission to avoid being misunderstood.

After the interview, June and co-host Isaac Butler get some creative advice from writer Taffy Brodesser-Akner.

In the exclusive Slate Plus segment, Nichole talks about some of her favorite collections of personal essays.

Send your questions about creativity and any other feedback to working@slate.com or give us a call at (304) 933-9675.

Podcast production by Cameron Drews.

If you enjoy this show, please consider signing up for Slate Plus. Slate Plus members get benefits like zero ads on any Slate podcast, bonus episodes of shows like Slow Burn and Big Mood, Little Mood—and you’ll be supporting the work we do here on Working. Sign up now at slate.com/workingplus.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

How Nichole Perkins Tapped into Memories for Her Memoir