Find Your Voice: How to Write When You're Not a Writer

You may have heard the term “ghostwriter.” And you might have some questions. (So did the author write the book or not?)Not every author comes up with every sentence of their book. Many times, there’s a behind-the-scenes person (or team) involved. And it’s not as scandalous as it sounds. In this episode, writer (and ghostwriter) Allison Fallon interviews another ghostwriter and author, Ashley Abercrombie. Both Allison and Ashley have both published under their own name and have written for other people. They talk about the challenges of each, when to know if you’re ready to share a personal story, and what it's like to help someone else’s voice come clear on the page.And check out Ashley’s book, Rise of the Truth Teller. **Find Your Voice uses affiliate links.

We all have our doubts.  Maybe you want to write your story, but you're not sure: not sure it's worth the effort, not sure you want to publish. What if no one even wants to read it? Or maybe you definitely don't want to publish, but you have a story from your past that needs working out—a story you have questions about—and something is telling you to write it down.  But you think to yourself, "That's crazy, I'm not a writer."In this episode, author and writing coach Allison Fallon covers the compelling reasons to write your personal story, even if no one ever reads it. 

Artist, poet, musician and author Morgan Harper Nichols' work has already touched so many people's lives—including ours! This episode, she shares about how she still gets nervous sharing new work with an audience (and how that's a good thing), the playlist she uses when she writes, and what is special to her about her latest book. She reflects on how words connect—or don't—with people, how art might only connect with one person—and that person might be you (and how worth it that is). She defines "finding your voice" as that moment when you think, "Yes, that's what I've been trying to say, for a long time." Order her newest book: How Far You Have Come: Musings on Beauty and Courage*Check out one of our favorites: All Along You Were Blooming: Thoughts for Boundless Livingmorganharpernichols.com*FYV uses affiliate links. 

So often, it's a childhood love of books and reading which inspires our own writing. But what makes a kid excited about reading and writing?  How can we pass that on?The mentors in our early lives make a huge difference here. Listen in on Allison Fallon's conversation with an early mentor of her own, her mom, Sandie Spotts. Sandie is a lifelong educator who has years of experience teaching kids to read (and to like reading). In this episode, she shares tips on cultivating a love of reading in the next generation.

So many of us are so focused on getting our stories out there that we forget that becoming "known" has consequences. When you decide to publish (or share your story in any public way), what was once personal and private becomes open for discussion. People will have opinions on your story—and you might not like all of those opinions.  When Sara Lewis shared her story on a podcast, she didn't think of herself as "brave." But when her story went viral, she quickly learned what it meant to be in the spotlight.  Follow Sara Lewis on Instagram @SpaceandPurpose Check out Sara's Blog spaceandpurpose.com Something Was Wrong Podcast, featuring Sara's story

Is there someone in your life trying to silence you? How do you fight for your voice when you are challenged, and what do you do when that resistance comes from someone close to you? As an author, speaker, and influencer, Elyse Murphy uses words for a living. But she knows what it's like to have someone suppress her voice: She and Ally both left abusive marriages, and, on this episode, they talk about how you can use a tool like writing—specifically writing your story—to hold onto what you know to be true about yourself. Instagram: @elyseTwitter: @elysemaree_elysemurphy.com

This podcast debunks common myths about writing a book, including the idea that a writer needs a retreat or a typewriter. The host encourages listeners to embrace uncertainty and find inspiration in everyday life for their writing. It highlights the importance of debunking misconceptions and realizing that anyone has the ability to write a book.

Is it worth writing even if no one will pay attention?Melissa wrote a best-selling cookbook back in the height of the Paleo movement called Well Fed. But now, ten years later, she wants to write about something new, and she's not sure her audience will follow.If you've ever struggled with having a "platform" or "audience" for your writing, today's episode is for you. Listen to hear about what it's like to change topics when the subject you've been writing about isn't where your heart is anymore.  A few of the many places to find Melissa on the internet:meljoulwan.comstrongsenseofplace.comstrongsenseofplace.podbean.com mel@meljoulwan.com twitter.com/meljoulwaninstagram.com/meljoulwaninstagram.com/strongsenseofpinterest.com/strongsenseoffacebook.com/strongsenseofplace

Author, speaking coach, and founder of the Don't Give Up Movement, Amy Wolff, talks about mental health, writing, and finding hope. They discuss the power of hope, the impact of yard signs as a symbol of solidarity, and maintaining hope in the face of challenges. They also emphasize the importance of vulnerability in the creative process and the evolution of their writing practice.

Therapist Jessica Martindale discusses the parallels between writing and therapy. Topics include finding a therapist, affordable therapy options, the power of writing for self-reflection, and the connection between pain and joy. They also explore the role of writing in therapy, including organizing thoughts and expressing gratitude.