The Editor's Half Hour

In this insightful episode, we dive into the nuanced world of editing for English as a Foreign Language (EFL) writers. It’s one thing to edit for grammar and flow, but how do editors balance maintaining a writer’s authentic voice while adapting the language for clarity and readability in English? This episode unpacks what it takes to work effectively with EFL writers, touching on topics like cultural sensitivity, linguistic diversity, and the unique challenges editors face when working with non-native English speakers.Whether you're an editor, writer, or just curious about the intricacies of language, this episode sheds light on how editors approach the delicate yet crucial task of working with EFL authors. Tune in for expert tips and fascinating stories from Mekiya Outini—an award-winning author and editor with over ten years of experience providing editorial services to EFL writers, authors of literary fiction and creative nonfiction, and international students and scholars. He holds an MFA in fiction from the University of Arkansas, Fayetteville, where he met his wife and collaborator, Itto Outini. Together, the Outinis have garnered support from the MacDowell Foundation and the Steinbeck Fellowship Program at San Jose State University and co-founded The DateKeepers, a full-service author support platform dedicated to serving artists and creators around the globe.Website: https://www.thedatekeepers.comMekiya’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mekiya-o-1157b9184/The DateKeepers LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/the-datekeepers-–-a-hub-for-writers-and-creators-372831275/The DateKeepers LinkedIn Newsletter: https://www.linkedin.com/newsletters/names-dates-7147355807444049920/

Isabella Furth shares her insight about emotional labor and how it affects the editing process. Emotional Labor is defined as caring work or relationship work; it’s about managing emotional resources, but it can often become devalued or taken for granted.Isabella explains the importance of recognizing emotional labor because it isn't something that should be avoided or ignored. As editors, we must find the moments in our work where we are taking the extra steps necessary to make our clients feel comfortable and safe.In this episode, Isabella shares tips on how to factor emotional labor into your costs, and most importantly, how to recognize and manage it.For more information about emotional labor, read the blog that covers this topic at www.sdpen.com. Search for "Editing and Emotional Labor."Isabella's vast editorial experience includes journal articles, scholarly books, doctoral theses, biographies, textbooks, test prep materials, and general interest non-fiction. She also has more than 12 years of experience in policy research, writing, design, and structured dialogue. She is a member of the American Copy Editors Society (ACES), the Editorial Freelancers Association (EFA), and the San Diego Professional Editors Network (which she served as co-president from 2018 to 2020).To learn more about Isabella, please visit her website at http://www.bluefisheditorial.com.

For about 20 years, the University of Chicago Press has been looking to publish a book about book design, and it has finally happened. In 2024, The Design of Books, written by Debbie Berne was officially published and it shares everything that authors, editors, and agents should know about book design. Debbie has been a professional book designer since 2002 and has designed hundreds of book interiors and covers in genres across the board.In this episode, Debbie walks us through the basics of book design. She explains how the design process differs from the freelancer’s perspective to an in-house designer at a major publishing house. She also talks about timing and conversations with authors. When should the conversation about a book’s interior begin, and how involved should the author be throughout the design process? According to Debbie, it depends. Listen to this episode to gain valuable insight into what goes on behind the scenes of creating good book design.

Rebecca Scharpf, an editor from Scrollwork Edits, specializes in supporting neurodivergent fiction writers. She discusses creating positive spaces for clients, emphasizing effective communication techniques like using text-based formats. Rebecca shares insightful resources for both writers and editors, including YouTube channels focused on neurodiversity. The conversation highlights her journey of self-discovery through storytelling and reveals her innovative affirmation cards designed to motivate and empower editors.

In this insightful conversation, award-winning editor Karen Yin shares her expertise on equitable communication from her latest book, The Conscious Style Guide. She emphasizes the importance of language sensitivity and collaboration in fostering understanding. The discussion touches on the controversial evolution of the name 'Karen' and its cultural implications. Karen also advocates for forgiveness in dialogues about race and diversity, and wraps up with the exciting launch of affirmation cards designed for editors.

CaTyra Polland, founder of National Black Authors Day, shares her journey in the editorial world and the inspiration behind creating the holiday. She discusses her commitment to supporting Black authors through scholarships and community events. Additionally, she highlights her work as an editor, author, and mentor, emphasizing the importance of diversity in literature.

Award-winning copywriter Erin Brenner discusses branding, marketing, finances for freelance editors. She emphasizes the importance of self-care and shares insights on setting rates and navigating entrepreneurship. The podcast delves into vetting editors, branding strategies, camaraderie at editor conferences, and balancing parenthood with entrepreneurship.

Sarah Calfee, a romance fiction editing specialist with a passion for Jane Austen, shares insights on dev editing, story-level issues, and using a Jane Austen writing strategy to solve problems in romance. The discussion explores empowering female characters, evolving romance tropes, the importance of subplots, and the intricate crafting of romance narratives through Jane Austen's lens.

Experienced editor Sonia Alleyne shares valuable advice on integrating personal stories into businesses. She highlights the importance of storytelling in connecting with audiences and shaping a brand's style. The discussion also covers the evolution of businesses, benefits of manuscript evaluations, and the impact of AI on editing services.

Tara Whitaker, a book editor and business coach, discusses creating community among editors. She emphasizes the importance of editors supporting each other, sharing experiences, and overcoming challenges. Tara's coaching programs empower editors to build businesses they love and feel a sense of clarity and belonging. The podcast explores text-based coaching, setting boundaries, navigating editing challenges, and the benefits of joining editor groups for growth.