When I came across Suzannah Freeman‘s site, Write It Sideways, I instantly knew I wanted to interview her. She has some great resources for writers and her sense of humor is delightful. I also liked this paragraph in her bio:

I was born and raised in the cold Canadian North, but now see the world from the fresh perspective of sunny Australia. My family and I enjoy arguing over grammar, playing Scrabble, and chasing each other with deadly arachnids.

I write. A lot. But that wasn’t always the case.

See what she did there? She put a hook that made you want to learn more. Clever! Besides that, who doesn’t love someone that argues over grammar and plays Scrabble?

Enjoy this interview.

First of all, I absolutely love your site and encourage everyone to take a look (and subscribe.) One of the things I appreciate about it are the different topics, lessons, and things to ponder for writers. What has been the one piece of advice you have most appreciated in your writing career?

Thank you! It’s always encouraging to hear that others find my blog helpful.

The biggest thing that’s made a difference to my writing is remembering that good writing takes time. I’d always been told I was a ‘good writer’ during my school years, so I used to think that if I really applied myself, I’d be able to write something publishable on the first try. Not so. My first true attempts at writing something publishable were awful, even though I thought they were brilliant. I remember being incredulous when my first short story manuscript was returned to me covered in red marks.

Years later, I can look back and see how far I’ve come. Now I recognise there’s no real hurry to get published, and I enjoy taking time learning my craft. I’m no longer obsessed with how long it’s going to take to be ‘good enough’.

I love the story you tell about being seven years old and writing the story, “My Soul Has Been Murdered.” So dramatic! (Smile). Do you still have the story somewhere? Has pieces of it ever worked its way into your present works?

I was a very dramatic child, as you can imagine! I have no idea where that particular story went, but I do remember it had a picture of a gravestone on the cover, and I remember being a bit embarrassed when I discovered that all the other girls in my class had written about horses and fairies. I wouldn’t say pieces of it have worked their way into any of my present works, but I would say I still tend toward heavier, thought-provoking stories.

When do you find that inspiration hits you the most?

First thing in the morning is when I feel most inspired to write, especially when the house is still quiet. Since having my second child, I’ve had to train myself to write with a bit more background noise. My toddler tends to get up around 5 am, so sometimes I write while he’s eating his breakfast. I just find that even though I’m tired in the morning, my mind feels fresh.

Also, it’s possible that I feel naturally more creative after just waking up, because I dream a lot. I very, very rarely feel inspired to write fiction in the evening, although that’s when I often work on my blog posts.

Please share some of your writing goals.  What’s next for you?

I wrote the first draft of a novel last year, and I would like to finish that this year. But, a few months back an invitation to submit a short story to a literary magazine shifted my focus for a while. Since that particular story was accepted for publication, I’m now working on a couple of other short stories, and I have a third out on submission. By no means have I given up on the novel, but I’m welcoming a few months away from it so I can come back to edit with fresh eyes.

I’m also in the process of writing a productivity ebook for fiction-writing moms, which I’ll be marketing through my website. Those are my goals for the 12 or 18 months, but my ultimate goal is to traditionally publish a novel.

What’s the most interesting book you’ve ever read?

Oh, that’s a tough question! I’d have to say the most interesting book I’ve ever read is Jane Eyre, by Charlotte Bronte. I love most of the classics, but Jane Eyre has such a great combination of excellent writing, romance, mystery, socio-historical context…I could go on forever. It’s literary fiction with a genre plot. It’s a page-turner, but with so much more going on under the surface.

What book are you currently reading?

Alias Grace: A Novel by Margaret Atwood, which is a fictionalised account of a real-life woman, Grace Marks, who was convicted as a murderess. As a Canadian, I’m ashamed to say this is the first of Atwood’s novels I’ve read, but I have read some of her short stories. I’m really enjoying her style of writing–sophisticated, but not flowery.

What do you like to do when you’re not writing?

I love to spend time with my husband and kids, read, play the piano, and go for walks. I rarely get time to turn on the TV, but when I do, it’s most often to watch a movie–usually a classic or a BBC production, but I’ll admit to the odd chick flick or lighthearted comedy. I took up knitting for a little while, but soon reconciled myself to the fact that I was destined to only ever knit scarves!

In your opinion, what’s the measure of a successful writer?

For me, success means working toward your ultimate goals and never giving up–even if you never reach them. For example, even if I spend my entire life working toward being traditionally published in novel-length fiction but never actually make it, as long as I know I put forward everything I had, then I would have no reason for regret. Unsuccessful writers, to me, are those who give up when it all becomes too difficult.

Where can we learn more about you?

Write It Sideways is where I blog about writing craft and productivity. You can follow me on Twitter or Facebook where I share resources and links I’ve found useful. And, you can find me as a guest contributor at Writer Unboxed three times each year.

Thanks so much for having me, Cherie!

Blogging resources:

• ProBlogger: Secrets for Blogging Your Way to a Six-Figure Income
• Scribe Makes SEO Simple
• Need a blog template? Working Writers uses StudioPress Streamline Child Theme

John L. Betcher is a University of Minnesota Law School graduate and has practiced law for more than twenty-five years in the Mississippi River community of Red Wing, Minnesota. He possesses substantial first-hand knowledge of the Prairie River Nuclear Plant’s real world counterpart, as well as Red Wing’s airport and the flight rules around the nuke plant. In addition to The 19th Element: A James Becker Nuclear Thriller, he has published a second book in the “Beck” series entitled, The Missing Element: A James Becker Mystery.

Enjoy this interview.

Tell us a bit about yourself. Where are you from and how long have you been writing?

I’m a native of Red Wing, Minnesota – about an hour south of Minneapolis/St. Paul. I grew up on a farm, went off to college and law school, then returned to Red Wing to start my own legal practice. I’ve now been practicing law here for over twenty-five years.

I have a wonderful wife and two great kids – both currently attending college. My wife and I live in a 1910-vintage Georgian Colonial with screen porches, front and back.

It’s really hard to say when I started writing. I was an English Major at St. Olaf College (Class of 1980). I wrote a lot in my legal work as well.

My first published writing was in a national volleyball coaching journal – Coaching Volleyball, the AVCA Journal. I penned three feature articles, including one cover article, for that publication between about 2006 and 2009.
In May, 2009, I self-published a small book on volleyball coaching philosophies called, Little Black Book of Volleyball Coaching (Insights From the Trenches). I also began working on my first novels that summer.

Tell us about your latest book. What do you hope readers take away from it?

My latest book is Book One of the James “Beck” Becker Suspense/Thriller Series. Entitled The 19th Element, a James Becker Thriller, it’s a tale of international terror in the American Midwest. Al Qaeda recruits homegrown American terrorists to assist in attacking the Prairie River Nuclear Power Plant, just up the Mississippi River from Red Wing, Minnesota.

My hope is that readers will sit back and enjoy the ride. This book is not Faulkner or James Joyce. It’s mass market fiction. The action is fast-paced. The characters are likeable and clever. And there’s a good deal of information about nuclear power plants and small plane avionics in the book. Some may choose to delve into those areas more deeply than others. It’s a good, quick read either way.

Share some of your writing goals. What’s next for you?

I’m currently working on book three of the series, which will focus on Mexican drug cartels and their reach into the Midwest. I’m also engaged in an entirely different project. The book is entitled, A Higher Court, One Man’s Search to Find the Truth of God’s Existence. I hope to have it finished and available yet this year.

As if that’s not enough to keep me busy, I’m doing my best to promote The 19th Element.

What’s the most interesting book you’ve ever read?

I’m really bad at “most,” “best,” “favorite” kinds of questions. I never have just one. One book I found intriguing, though, is Cat’s Cradle: A Novel, by Kurt Vonnegut, Jr. No one writes in the same style as Vonnegut. And he has such an off-the-wall sense of humor.

Favorite authors?

Here are a few of my faves: Robert B. Parker (especially his Spenser Detective Series), Brian Haig, Vince Flynn, Barry Eisler and J.R.R. Tolkien. There are lots more.

Book you’re currently reading?

I haven’t got a book in progress at the moment. Most of my current reading is devoted to researching articles for the drug cartel book.

Any type of writing ritual you have?

I like to sit in my leather chair, with my computer on my lap and a Diet Mountain Dew on the side table. I like to write at least 2000 words in a sitting. Ideas seem to flow better that way for me.

Do you believe in writer’s block? If so, how did you get past it? If not, why not?

I do believe in writer’s block. But I don’t believe I have ever experienced it. On the other hand, maybe I have, and I just kept writing anyway. Hmmm?

I just keep writing whether I feel inspired or not. You can always go back and fix up later.

In your opinion, what’s the measure of a successful writer?

An individual writer’s success must be measured by that writer’s own standards. So I don’t want anyone to think my personal measure should necessarily be theirs.

I measure my own success in several ways. First, I have to enjoy reading the finished book – even after editing it dozens of times. Second, I want anyone who reads the book to learn something interesting from it. And third, I’d like to sell 1,000 copies (or 100,000 copies) over time.

I don’t expect writing to make me rich. But I wouldn’t complain about that either.

Advice for other writers?

1) Keep on writing, whether you feel inspired or not.
2) Always remember that writing is a cooperative activity – not a competition.
3) Help out your fellow authors.

Where can we learn more about you?

The easiest place is my website. Or just Google my name and see what you find.

Anything else you’d like to add?

Thank you for inviting me to do this interview. And thanks, also, to your readers for checking out my books. I hope to be back with a new book in the not-too-distant future.

__________________________________________
Additional resources:

• eBook Starter – Create Your Own Ebooks
• Complete Guide to Profit on eBooks
• Write Your Own eBook in 7 Days

One the great parts about writing for larger online networks is meeting other writers. That was the case with Dustin Alexander, who I met while writing news for Examiner. Dustin has a wonderful news background, and it’s been a thrill to get to know him. I’ll know you’ll enjoy this interview.

You have a wonderfully diverse background in media, including news, voiceover work, and features. Tell us what drew you to the news industry?

I enjoy communicating. It’s the quintessential part of the human experience. Growing up, I was one of those rare children that would watch the news on TV and try to catch AM radio broadcasts also. I enjoyed learning from what I saw and heard. While my peers were out playing sports, I was very happy to read newspapers and magazines.

My mentors in Chicago news were John Drury, Joel Daley and the late Fahey Flynn, of Eyewitness News (ABC 7). As a teenager I watched Carol Marin and Ron Magers. My mornings would begin with The Wally Philips Show on WGN. And afternoons and weekends were spent listening to Bill Garcia of US-99 and Larry Lujak on WLS-AM.

When I was 12, I had a chance to go to Chicago and meet Bill Garcia, in person. Mr. Garcia encouraged me to consider a career in radio. I promised him and my parents that I would do just that. The excitement of seeing all the engineering equipment and being at a big city radio station sparked a passion for electronics and broadcasting that I am still in love with, to this day.

My first news correspondents job didn’t go well at all. But my first editor of the Chicago Sun-Times based suburban paper I only worked at, for a month, told me to not give up on writing. It was several years before I made the decision to give news writing another try. I’m glad I did!

What do you enjoy about being a freelance writer and reporter? And what don’t you like about it?

Writing is an art form to me. It’s an extension of our everyday communications skills. People have a desire to be a part of the human interaction of communicating with one another. I find that people have a desire to know about the world around them. As a writer, I believe I inform people of the truth and matters that are important to each individual reader or viewer. It is enjoyable to learn about different subject matters, while doing research for a story or feature. It is my belief that I should generously share that new found knowledge with my viewers.

The best part about writing has been the opportunities to meet knew people, learn about new worlds and cultures and overall share all these things with my viewers. Hopefully, the privileges I’ve been afforded, as a writer, I can pass on to others.

I don’t like when I have to report sad or traumatic news. Yet, it is my personal duty to share what I can with the rest of society and hopefully it will make some sort of difference for the overall good.

While I don’t appreciate some of the hassles a journalist has to encounter, in order to get certain information, I truly enjoy the challenge that those times bring me.

Share some of your writing goals. What’s next for you?

I plan on writing a book about some of my experiences. I’m currently working on co-authoring my sister’s personal memoirs. This has been a difficult task due to the amount of personal tragedy the lady has gone through. I’ve drawn great strength in her courage and wisdom as I write her thoughts and experiences. It has given me the opportunity to learn more about my sister and is teaching me life lessons I never thought I would learn.

If it is meant to be, I would like to continue writing for the news and entertainment industry. While it is uncertain where this will lead me, I enthusiastically embrace and welcome any opportunity I have to endear myself to this industry and the people that continually support me in that endeavor.

What’s the most interesting book you’ve ever read?

The Holy Bible and the Koran. (Sorry that’s 2.) If a person allows themselves to be open-minded to new thoughts and ideas, The Bible has a little bit of everything.

Favorite authors?

Agatha Christie and J.K. Rowling. I love a good mystery and also enjoy getting lost in the world of fantasy.

Book you’re currently reading?

A: I’ve decided to finally read The Da Vinci Code, Angels & Demons and The Lost Symbol. I’m behind the times as these aren’t fresh to the market, but I read books when I’m interested in doing so, not just because it’s the latest craze. Reading and appreciating a book should be in your own good time and not when everyone else is doing it. In order to appreciate a book, you have to be ready to commit to starting and finishing it. It’s also nice to re-read certain books more than once.

Do you believe in writer’s block? If so, how did you get past it? If not, why not?

Writing shouldn’t be mechanical. It should reflect the individual personality of the author. I’ve suffered from writers block on several

occasions. To get through those times, I accept the fact that I’m experiencing a block and I don’t let it discourage me. I walk away from writing until I’m ready to write again. Stories that I may have an interest in writing, that just don’t flow, I usually determine that it may not be something I should or need to write about after all. This only happens to me with features. Writing the news is usually somewhat easier because of deadlines and the ability to have exact information at your fingertips we you’re writing news.

In your opinion, what’s the measure of a successful writer?

Integrity and desire should be a writers basic motivations to write. Whether I have 1 viewer or 100,000 viewers of my work, I measure success, one viewer at a time. Being honest and fair, in your writing, without putting too much of your own opinion within, is important too. I believe my readers can form their own thoughts and opinions, from my work and I treat them with as much intellectual respect as possible. My greatest success comes from viewers trusting me to accurately inform them through my work.

Advice for other writers?

A: Try it. You just might like it. Don’t be afraid of constructive criticism, but also be your own person when writing. Your personality and essence should be personified in whatever you write. Be fair and open to new and different things. Don’t limit yourself. Try as many things as you want. Stick with what’s comfortable and abandon what just won’t work for you. A career or even hobby, as a writer, opens up windows to worlds that will amaze you!

Where can we learn more about you?

I currently write news for Examiner.com, FOX 6 BLOCKS and Metro News in Milwaukee. All 3 sources are online.

Anything else you’d like to add?

I have my family to thank for ensuring my stellar education. Their past sacrifices to see me succeed, will hopefully be rewarded by my continuing to be the best I can be in everything I strive to do in life.

Additional freelance writing resources:

• The Well-Fed Writer: Financial Self-Sufficiency as a Commercial Freelancer in Six Months or Less
• Earn money generated by your articles. Write for Examiner.com.
• Make a Real Living as a Freelance Writer: How to Win Top Writing Assignments

It’s not often that I get to interview another poetry lover, so I was thrilled to be able to talk to Jeff Boire. One of the exciting things in writing for different sites and publications is learning about new writers. We all come to writing with a different experience and different backgrounds, and yet it’s interesting how people who seemingly have nothing in common on the surface can connect over writing, or in this case, poetry.

Enjoy this interview.

How did you first discover that you loved poetry?

I cannot recall any interest in poetry nor exposure as a child, I was involved in sports and dirt-biking growing up. It all started in a business literature class in August of 2007. One of our books was, The Art Of Work : An Anthology of Workplace Literature by Christine LaRocco and James Coughlin, a compilation of short stories, non-fiction, and poetry. We analyzed the poetry in class and the professor indicated off the cuff that my insight used for my evaluation was remarkable. I didn’t think too much of the comment at the time. In fact, nearly two years would elapse before I had attempted to write my first poem. Lacking recollection, sometime during or after the class while conducting research I stumbled upon The Road Not Taken by Robert Frost. I consider this work to have caused the paradigm shift in my thinking and appreciation for the written word. How powerful could a simple collection of words draw such intellectual pleasure and a confusing emotional reaction simultaneously? How parallel were the words with how I had navigated life? How meaningful the message as to the importance of making one’s own choices and maintaining the fortitude to continue forward? The connection was overwhelming at the time. So much so, a picture could not even describe.

Which poets were you first drawn to?

Robert Frost, of course, captivated my attention to the point I read his work often. My favorite quote from Mr. Frost is “No tears in the writer, no tears in the reader. No surprise in the writer, no surprise in the reader.”

I believe in that statement completely. Some of my work causes a strong personal reaction personally and I believe these may have some kind of effect on those who read the poems. My other favorite is Dr. Jonathan Swift.

The good Dr. was a remarkable poet with tremendous command of the language at the time who often is telling stories, perhaps multiple stories within his work. My favorite line from To a Lady is “Thus we both shall gain our prize; I to laugh, and you grow wise”. I was frustrated with my fiancé one day because of something she said, which is personified in the poem. My reply was to show her the poem. Amazingly she understood where I was
coming from. I tend to be on the serious side so the last line helps me to understand her growth and my need to laugh at things. I also consider the importance of getting to know the poet’s history along with their work. Many experienced extremely hard lives brimming with adversity. Perhaps theses experiences provided a remarkable influence on their work, and likewise, their work on their lives.

Do you remember writing your first poem? How old were you? What was it about?

My first poem, Camp, happened on June 29, 2009. I had taken my daughter, Aarilyn, camping at a friend’s cabin in Wild Rose, WI. I actually started the poem the day before typing it into my cell-phone notes application while watching her play. We had a tremendous time and I was compelled to document it somehow, and the words just came to mind. Everything that is written is exactly how the weekend occurred or past history. Myself, I was 33 at the time, and had no clue about form or meter.

How often do you find yourself writing poetry? Are there moments or moods that draw you to poetry more than others?

I find that I engage in spurts. In the beginning it was once or twice a month, or maybe a couple months would fly by and then I would write another piece. As I continued to grow, some writing occurs on a weekly basis, schedule permitting. Given the influence of Dr. Swift I enjoy telling a story or a sequence of events perhaps of a remarkable experience –so an event may key engagement. On a more personal note, I deal with a medical condition coincidentally having affected many poets and certainly mood comes into play but I do not believe I am an emotional writer, nor would I consider my writing as a result of the affliction, although it may have some influence beyond my capabilities.

What is your process for writing poetry? (Laptop, notebook, morning hours, last thing at night..) Is this process different than for other types of writing you may do?

My process is simple. I have a laptop which served me well while completing my BS degree and I treat it as a desktop in a small office area I converted from basically a mud room. There is a large window and the area allows me to focus. Most of my poetry writing occurs in the evening, sometimes very late evening. I find the process to be relaxing and thought provoking –reflective. Sometimes on a weekend morning I may be compelled to write as well. I would not indicate that the process differs much from other writing I may practice.

Have you published your poems anywhere? If yes, please share the book or publication with us. If no, do you have any plans to publish in the future?

I had a nice surprise one day when I received a letter from Greenspring Publishing indicating they would like to publish my second poem, Thought, in a small book called Whispers. An anonymous individual submitted the poem. I had used the poem in a business class focused on creativity. I do not know who sent it in, to this day. I suspected my professor did and even presented him with a copy of the book, but he never said a word. This is not a mainstream publisher by any means but was a very neat experience. Recently, my poem Chopper was published in a small biker/motorcycle enthusiast newspaper called Free Riders Press. I have some poems listed on my website, Poemhunter, and privately on Facebook. I realize the strong differentiation of internet vs. conventional publishing but I believe while I am still a novice that I am not too concerned with professional publishing at this time.

How would you respond to people who claim they don’t like poetry?

This is a phenomenal question. I grew up playing football, wrestling and riding dirt bikes. As a young adult riding Harley’s. In 2001 I build a hard tail Harley Shovelhead chopper. I do not exactly fit the demographic or stereotype of someone involved with poetry to the degree that I currently find myself. My commentary is not intended to indicate stereotypes or perception but merely to indicate the power of the written word can attract anyone at any time. If someone told me they didn’t like poetry I might kindly ask who or what they may have read and offer the perspective that poets and poems are as different as the reader, perhaps you have not found someone you can relate to better. Poetry is about the message but that is not singular in objective. Poetry is also about the perception of the reader, the influence of experience and imagination coupled with the intended or unintended message. Finally, I believe a rare minority does not appreciate music and lyrics and this is a form of poetry that touches lives daily, absolutely.

Where can we find out more about you?

If you are compelled, you can email me at jeff.boire@gmail.com or find me at Facebook.

Anything else you’d like to add?

Thank you Cherie. You are a remarkable writer, well accomplished and I have learned a great deal from you in a short time. My best to you. [Editor's note: Thanks, Jeff!]

Earn money generated by your articles. Write for Examiner.com.

Additional Writing Resources:

• Make Money From Home – Real Jobs You Can Do by Telecommuting
• Create Multiple Articles from Just One
• How to Write Your Own Ebook in 7 Days
• Freelance Writing Jobs

Every once in a while I come across a writer that has so much going on, it makes my head spin. Katelyn Thomas is one of those writers. She’s balances her passion, family life, and writing world beautifully. One thing I really liked about what she had to say in this interview was in answer to the question “What is the measure of a successful writer?” To me, she hits the nail on the head with this one! See if you don’t agree. Enjoy this interview.

You’ve got so many different things going on; I’m not sure where to begin. First of all, how do you balance your time during the day?

I start by doing the “Me” projects that don’t have a mandatory deadline that day. I work on them in the morning after the kids are in school. Then, in the afternoons, I work on an art piece while the kids do art at their table or I try to catch up on a few small blogging/writing projects while I’m cooking dinner and helping with homework. It isn’t really productive time, but I do get some odds and ends wrapped up. In the evening, I finish up anything I had to do that day. I don’t turn in until I’m done. If I didn’t do it this way, I’d do the mandatory minimum in the morning and never get anything else done.

I am very big on Google calendar and docs to organize things. I break up big tasks up into milestones and then record the milestones I’ve met and finished projects on the calendar. I can see in a second if I’ve “done enough” for the day. For me, that is at least 5 finished posts or articles and a few milestones. Right now, I am doing an internship, so I let myself slide a little bit and count some of my more involved internship tasks as an article, too.

It is important to decide if you have to do everything every day, too. I know people who write an article for a certain site every day or write four or five a day. I might only write one a week for that site and I am totally okay with that. I’m only in competition with myself!

You blog, write online articles, and have quite a few hobbies. Tell me about your various writing projects.

I am the small business feature writer for Suite 101, I blog about thrifty living and holidays and I am working on an e-book about Lyme Disease. (I’m still looking for a few more patients, doctors and caregivers to interview, so feel free to pass the word around!) I have other blogs and sites I write for, but they sort of fill in around the edges.

How do you think your experience in the small business world has helped you when it comes to running a successful blog?

I wasn’t very good at putting myself out there before I had small businesses. Once you cold call someone to chat about advertising in your magazine, you sort of get over networking fears!

What is your advice to new bloggers or writers looking to write online?

Slow down. I see so many people appear online out of the blue and they’re everywhere at once. I’m everywhere, too, but it took me five or six years to get there! Start with one thing and concentrate just on it for a few weeks or a month. Read every blog post you can find, try different writing styles, learn how to research keywords and find out all about the long tail.

Don’t begin by starting a blog about internet marketing unless you’re blogging about learning how to do it.

Don’t let worries about market saturation or following the money keep you from blogging about something important to you. If you write about what you love, you will develop an audience. I think a lot of people feel they have to have the number one blog in their area to be successful, but there are plenty of bloggers who will never be a household name and still have an audience.

Share some of your writing goals. What’s next for you?

I’m concentrating on my book and growing my blogs right now. Growing blogs is never ending, but when I finish the book, I’ll work on getting a chunk of articles up on some residual income sites I’ve been playing around with.

What’s the most interesting book you’ve ever read?

The Daughter of Time by Josephine Tey. She usually writes mysteries, but this book, which deals with the murder of King Edward IV’s sons, is not a traditional mystery. It has a bedridden Scotland Yard Inspector researching the very cold case and coming to a conclusion about the murderer that doesn’t agree with the suspicions the rest of the world has had for generations.

Book you’re currently reading?

I’m actually between books. I thought Waking Up in the Land of Glitter would last me a week or two because I really don’t have a lot of free time right now, but I couldn’t put it down and finished it in one sitting a few days ago. I identify with the characters, who had a teensy glitter addiction.

In your opinion, what’s the measure of a successful writer?

I know children’s novelists, who despite having books that were well received and are part of some good library collections, can’t support themselves by writing. I know other writers who feel bad about the fact that they’ve never been published in print magazines, but earn enough money to support their families. I know writers who follow up every introduction with, “But I only publish technical manuals.” To me, they are all successful writers because they don’t just talk about writing or dream about it. They do it. Even if they don’t feel like it, they pick up a pen or boot up their laptops and they write.

Where can we learn more about you?

I’d like to say you can head to me writing website, but it is under construction and will probably still be under construction when I retire.

Anything else you’d like to add?

Don’t be afraid to try. The first rejection notice hurts. So does the second, the third…But when you rip open an envelope and realize you just got your first acceptance letter, it sort of is like holding a baby in your arms for the first time. You totally forget the pain of all the rejections!

Additional Writing Resources:

• Make Money From Home – Real Jobs You Can Do by Telecommuting
• Create Multiple Articles from Just One
• How to Write Your Own Ebook in 7 Days
• Freelance Writing Jobs

Roberta Goli has a Bachelor of Science (Zoology), an Advanced Certificate in Veterinary Nursing and over 10 years work experience as a Veterinary Nurse and an Animal Technician (among other things). In addition to her interest in science and writing, her other loves include, animals, books, movies and playing MMORPGs. She has a pet dog, cat and a mouse.

Tell us a bit about yourself. Where are you from and how long have you been writing?

I have wanted to write for many, many years and did so on and off. It wasn’t until early this year that I decided to pursue it more actively.

What type of writing do you do?

Mostly I write articles for Suite 101 where I am the mammals’ feature writer, and also for Constant Content, though I have been neglecting that site in favor of Suite. I also write some short stories when I make the time and recently I wrote a 50,000-word novel for NaNoWriMo.

What’s the best thing about writing?

The freedom. Freedom to write what I want, when I want. Freedom to sleep in, or to stay up until 2am if the mood or inspiration strikes me. Doing something that I really enjoy.

Share some of your writing goals.

While I am enjoying article writing at the moment, I would like to pursue my creative writing more, and have lots of stories or even a novel published.

Is there a specific time of day you like to write?

Whenever the mood strikes me.

When did you first realize you wanted to be a writer?

When I was 12 and a teacher asked the class to do an assignment on what we wanted to be when we grew up. I agonized over this because I wanted to be either an author or an animal technician.

Book you’re currently reading?

We Need to Talk About Kevin, by Lionel Shriver. I am really enjoying this book.

Do you believe in writer’s block? If so, how did you get past it? If not, why not?

I do believe in writer’s block. During the last few days of NaNoWriMo when I felt I had nothing creative to say, I struggled. I just tried to keep typing because of the looming deadline. Normally, if I am struggling to write, I just don’t write that day. I take a break from it.

What’s the measure of a successful writer?

Hmm, well you could answer that success is measured on how many novels a writer has published or how much money they make, but I also feel that if a writer is making a decent income, then they are successful.

Advice for other writers?

Keep on writing. Read lots of book. Read other writers blogs and learn from your peers.

Where can we learn more about you?

You can check out my blog The Write Words.

Additional Writing Resources:

• Make Money From Home – Real Jobs You Can Do by Telecommuting
• Create Multiple Articles from Just One
• How to Write Your Own Ebook in 7 Days
• Freelance Writing Jobs

One of the great things about being a freelance writer is meeting wonderful folks like Rebecca Subbiah. She’s a great writer and has generously written articles for my Help Someone With Diabetes blog. Her articles “First Line Advice for Diabetes,” “What to Expect from the Dietitians Visit,” and “Tips for Loved Ones with Diabetes” are informative and offer a differ perspective from the average health article. One thing I like about her writing style is that it is down-to-earth and filled with advice that anyone can follow.

Talking with Rebecca reminds me that freelance writers truly do come from all different walks of life. They can be generalists, or someone like Rebecca with a background in food, physical fitness, and diet. We’re going to see a lot more from Rebecca as time goes on, so I’m happy to interview her here. Enjoy!

You’re a registered dietitian in both the United Kingdom and America. You’ve got a wonderful level of knowledge regarding diet and fitness. How did you first develop an interest in writing?

I have always written education materials for patients and even a couple of articles for the hospital newsletter, but I found my passion for writing when I started my blog. I also joined the Nutrition Entrepreneurs Group of The American Dietetic Association it has the most inspiring Authors in it.

What type of freelance writing work are you looking for?

I adore blog writing, I already blog for an Alaskan Seafood Company, an Organic meat company and I have just started the blog and social media (twitter and facebook) for my local Indian store. So I am looking to expand this niche with more food companies.

Your blog, Chow and Chatter, is an awesome collection of recipes, photos, and information. I get hungry whenever I pop over to see what you’ve added! As a personal trainer and dietician, you’ve obviously got a healthy outlook toward the body. Freelance writers sometimes have problems gaining a few pounds once they start working from home. What are some things freelancers should be careful of or keep in mind to avoid gaining the “freelance pudge”?

Here are some simple tips to prevent weight gain or help you lose:

• Prioritize you; make time to cook a healthy meal and exercise. Remember you are your most important asset and writing tool.
• Keep healthy snacks around, have a glass of water and fruit bowl on your desk.
• Weigh yourself, prevention is the best cure.
• Schedule meal times, its all too easy to get caught up in your writing and skip meals then eat more later on. Taking a short lunch break will not make you miss the deadline. Also research shows regular meals keeps your metabolism ticking over and helps maintain a healthy weight.
• Follow some food and health blogs along with writing blogs to give you daily tips and recipe ideas.
• Enlist support from your friends and family and make family time more active, go for a swim; take a walk in the park.
• Make sure you get enough sleep at night; studies have shown that lack of sleep will also contribute to weight gain. There’s always tomorrow to finish the article.
• Consider consulting with a dietitian to give you tailor made advice and help you keep you on track.

Share some of your writing goals. What’s next for you?

I aim to continue to improve my writing and built my portfolio of clips, maintain my blog and go after paid work!

What’s the most interesting book you’ve ever read?

I loved Nelson Mandela’s Autobiography I read it as a teen and it stays with me.

Book you’re currently reading?

Remember, Remember (the Fifth of November): Everything You’ve Ever Wanted to Know About British History with All the Boring Bits Taken Out by Judy Parkinson my Mum got it for me, as a Brit its fun to learn more of my homelands history in a easy to read format.

Any type of writing ritual you have?

I also draft what I am going to write on a notepad then type it out, a bit old fashioned I know!

Do you believe in writer’s block? If so, how did you get past it? If not, why not?

I think its easy to write about what your passionate about that way idea’s don’t dry up.

In your opinion, what’s the measure of a successful writer?

That the Author is happy and has reached out to their readers and connected with them.

Advice for other writers?

Never give up and believe in yourself

Where can we learn more about you?

My blog.

Anything else you’d like to add?

I adore Cherie and this site is a great resource lets all help it to grow. [Editors note: I adore you, too, Rebecca! Thanks for the interview.]

Additional Writing Resources:

• Make Money From Home – Real Jobs You Can Do by Telecommuting
• Create Multiple Articles from Just One
• How to Write Your Own Ebook in 7 Days
• Freelance Writing Jobs

J.W. Nicklaus maintains his own personal space between the soul and soft machine in the arid southwest amongst the snowbirds and the Arizona Diamondbacks. After graduating with an Associate of Arts in Journalism and Photography and a B.S. in Telecommunications he’s spent the better part of twenty years experiencing life and working in trades as varied as a small advertising firm to a litigation service bureau. Between writing for his blog (avomnia.wordpress.com) and other side projects, he spends time with his son enjoying the baseball season.

Enjoy this interview.

Tell us a bit about yourself. Where are you from and how long have you been writing?

Where I’m from is something of an existential question, is it not? ;^) For some strange reason I’ve always found that question a touch striking because it exemplifies the concept of context; we can so easily surmise context, yet if that very question is written then some people would require qualifiers. For example, “Where are you coming from?” A rhetorical question, of course, but it could also indicate geographical direction: “I’m on I-10 now and heading south.”

So, having gotten that off my chest, I can safely say that I’m an Arizona native—born in Phoenix, grew up in Tucson, went to school in Flagstaff, and now live in Phoenix again. I hope, someday, to live where the greenery is indigenous and not forced upon the landscape.

As for writing, I’ve done it as far back as my teen years, although nothing much came of that early stuff. The bulk of what I’d consider my writing I’ve done in perhaps the last fifteen years or so.

Tell us about your latest book. What do you hope readers take away from it?

Serendipitous that you should use the word ‘hope’ in the question. The Light, the Dark, and Ember Between is a collection of short stories which revolve around hope. Fifteen tales in all, shades of romance and drama, sprinkled with dashes of humor, all ready to nimbly tug at the reader and remind them that Hope isn’t as distant as it might feel.

Share some of your writing goals. What’s next for you?

I really want to work more on—and of course finish—my novel, Eden. I started it years ago, but life has always intervened, and I took to writing short stories almost exclusively. I, like many other folks, also blog. I blog about whatever I feel like, which doesn’t lend itself to being categorized, but I feel that provides more freedom and balance to my writing. I like being able to write in differing formats. I look at it as good practice.

For some time to come, my “next” thing will always be promotion. Doing this virtual blog tour is one way to accomplish that. I’m always exploring avenues of promotion.

What’s the most interesting book you’ve ever read?

Wow—that’s quite a question, perhaps because it’s so completely subjective. I read one a while back titled Dinner With A Perfect Stranger, by David Greggory. It’s about a man who’s invited to meet Jesus for dinner. I found the concept of sitting down with a figure like Jesus and having a regular conversation to be fascinating. But I’ve also very much enjoyed John Adams, by David McCullough, American Lion: Andrew Jackson in the White House, by John Meacham, and a good number of other books.

Favorite authors?

John Steinbeck, Mark Twain, Ernest Hemingway, John Grisham, David McCullough. I used to read a lot of science fiction when I was younger, so I have a couple there too.

Book you’re currently reading?

Umm . . . can I list more? I’m currently (mostly) reading A Confederacy of Dunces. I also have Brain Rules in progress, and about eight others on my TBR pile, including Neil Gaiman, John Grisham, and Nicholas Sparks.

Any type of writing ritual you have?

The closest I come to a ritual is that I almost always have some idea germinating in my head about what to write. I spend a great deal of time thinking about what to write before I ever write it. Frankly, that’s not a good way to go about it.

When I write anything, I always try to get the ideas out and not worry so much about all the mechanics. Then I come back later, at a minimum the next day, and re-read what I’ve written and refine it from there. Sometimes I let things sit for a week or more before revisiting them.

I’m also a member of a writing group that meets to share each others work and critique it. I always read my own writing aloud, to see how it sounds to my ear, and then will often take it to the group and read it aloud there to get their take on it.

Do you believe in writer’s block?

If so, how did you get past it? If not, why not? I have found that I don’t get “writer’s block” so much as I simply stagnate for any number of reasons. One of the greatest things I’ve found to unlock the creative juices is to remove myself from familiar surroundings—to travel. I can’t say I get to do that much, but it has absolutely helped me in the past. I think we remain too close to our subjects and characters and allow the minutiae of our lives to dull theirs. Discussing these types of matters with the others in my writing group also helps, even to sit and listen to them discuss it amongst themselves is helpful; at least then I know I’m not the only one struggling from time to time.

In your opinion, what’s the measure of a successful writer?

This is, for me, a no-brainer: if the reader has felt that their expenditure of time was of value after reading your work, then I firmly believe that a writer has lived up to their end of the reader-author relationship.

Essentially, if a reader has enjoyed what I’ve written, not to mention perhaps been genuinely moved by it, then how can one not consider that a success?

I understand that we are prone to measure success by sales numbers or name branding. But the foundation which those concepts rest upon is the very same I allude to above. Those people sell lots of books, or have well-known names, because they’ve capitalized on the reader-author equation.

Advice for other writers?

It’s no secret that there are many more people who wish to write and publish than the ‘market’ can viably support. In my opinion, if you’re writing in the hopes of hitting that big payday then you may be in for a rude awakening. All the people I know who write would certainly love to hit it big, but it’s not their focus. They write because they thoroughly enjoy it, even with its inevitable frustrations and editing. There is a fulfillment one gets from writing like few other things in life can offer.

Write because you want to. Write because you feel it.

And no matter what others will tell you, believe in yourself.

Where can we learn more about you?

Indirectly, through my blog: avomnia.wordpress.com. I don’t talk about myself (unless I’m ranting), but if you read enough of the posts you can start to see me in-between the lines.

You can get a more direct feel of my writing approach at my web site: www.avomnia.com. I have more information about my book, along with reviews, articles I’ve written about writing, and even an entire site dedicated to our Constitution!

Anything else you’d like to add?

No matter what you pursue, or what drives you, don’t simply look at the stars—reach for them. Pull one down for yourself. Tuck it under your pillow when you lay down to sleep, and let it warm your dreams. Nurture it, and it will reward you.

Additional Writing Resources:

• Make Money From Home – Real Jobs You Can Do by Telecommuting
• Create Multiple Articles from Just One
• How to Write Your Own Ebook in 7 Days
• Freelance Writing Jobs

Gale Laure, a native Texan, is the international selling author of Evolution of a Sad Woman, a mystery, suspense, thriller and romance novel.  Gale Laure resides in a small suburban town in the Houston area with her husband and family. Laure’s hobbies include genealogical research, movies, creating stories for the children around her, involvement in her church and people watching. Laure gained her experience for writing from her careers including owner of a business service, marketing and consulting company, owner of her own travel agency, employment in the medical field including office manager, a short time as a legal assistant, a paralegal, and employment in an insurance office and CPA’s office.

Tell us a bit about yourself. Where are you from and how long have you been writing?

I live in the Houston area of Texas with my family. I was born in an area known as the Golden Triangle on the Gulf coast of Texas. I have written one novel – my debut novel – Evolution of a Sad Woman.

Tell us about your latest book. What do you hope readers take away from it?

I hope they will be mind challenged by the mystery, excited by the suspense and thrills and heart touched by the romance. I hope the surprise ending will stay with my readers for a long time. The lesson of my novel is that a truly horrible thing can happen in your life, and you can survive. Maybe you can come out of the disaster with a change to your life for the better.

Share some of your writing goals. What’s next for you?

My next novel, The Bunkhouse, is due out in 2010. It is a historical, mystery, suspense, thriller and romance novel with a sci-fi twist. I wrote it for my husband who is a sci-fi fan. Several characters Evolution of a Sad Woman make a cameo appearance in The Bunkhouse. It takes place in Austin, Texas.

I am writing the first sequel to Evolution of a Sad Woman. It is entitled Alana – Evolution of a Woman.

What’s the most interesting book you’ve ever read?

I suppose the most interesting is Dan Brown’s The Da Vinci Code. I liked the story. Little Women by Louisa May Alcott is interesting to me for a totally different reason. When I read it as a child, I always connected with Jo, the main character. As an adult, I finally know why. She became an author, just like I did.

Favorite authors?

Agatha Christie is my absolute favorite author of all time. Other favorites are Mark Twain, William Shakespeare, James Michenor, Stephen King, John Grisham, Danielle Steel, Sue Grafton, Michael Crichton and Nora Roberts.

Book you’re currently reading?

I am reading Alex Cross’s TRIAL by James Patterson and Richard DiLallo. I am only on page 5, but it does have my attention.

Any type of writing ritual you have?

I insist on quiet. I like to be alone in my home when I write. I usually just sit down at my computer and go at it. Because I become totally engrossed in my story, I forget to eat or go to the bathroom until I just cannot wait any more. I become completely lost in my characters and their location. I never worry about

sentence structure, storyline, grammar or spelling until I finish writing. Then I perform my own edit of my work. That is what I am doing on The Bunkhouse now. I look for holes in my story first. Next I check sentence structure and grammar. Last I check spelling.

Do you believe in writer’s block? If so, how did you get past it? If not, why not?

Yes, I do. I had never had writer’s block until I had to write the guest posts for the blogs on my virtual blog book tour. Suddenly, I felt like I was back in high school and had been given an assignment. My mind went blank. I prayed and sat down and started writing. When I write books, I write what is inside my head. I go where the thoughts take me. No one controls my thoughts. Believe me, it is a big difference.

In your opinion, what’s the measure of a successful writer?

Time is the measure of a successful author. If an author’s work can last throughout their lifetime and still be enjoyed by future generations, they have grasped success!

Advice for other writers?

Never give up on your dream. If you do not believe in your work, no one else will believe in it. It is your creation, your heart and your soul.

Where can we learn more about you?

For more about me visit my website or my blog or do an Internet search. You may also find me at www.twitter.com/wwwgalelaurecom , www.facebook.com/Author.GaleLaure , www.authorsden.com/galelaure , www.goodreads.com/galelaureauthor , www.myspace.com/galelaure-author.

Anything else you’d like to add?

I want to thank you for having me on your blog. It has been a real pleasure.

Additional Writing Resources:

• Make Money From Home – Real Jobs You Can Do by Telecommuting
• Create Multiple Articles from Just One
• How to Write Your Own Ebook in 7 Days
• Freelance Writing Jobs

Jenny Evans is a freelance writer specializing in parenting and early childhood. She draws her expertise mostly from her own children (ages 5, 3, and 1) but has worked with youth of all ages in tutoring, mentoring, and teaching capacities. Anything related to the family is usually a topic. When she’s not playing with her kids, Jenny likes to read books without pictures, write, scrapbook, exercise, and relax with her husband.

Enjoy this interview.

Tell us a bit about yourself. Where are you from and how long have you been writing?

Currently I live in Columbus, Ohio with my family, but we’re about to move to the Boston, Massachusetts area in just a few months. I’ve been writing ever since I knew how – I think I’ve kept a journal since I was in second grade. I’ve always felt an unrelenting compulsion to write. From elementary school all the way through college, it was always fiction that interested me. But since I started doing nonfiction articles a few years ago, I’ve found that I love that too.

You’ve got almost 300 articles on Suite101. What do you enjoy about writing for them? Anything you’ve learned? Challenges about being an online writer?

I didn’t know very much about SEO writing when I started with Suite101. In the past year I’ve learned volumes about it. Being able to write about whatever interests me while reaching a worldwide audience of over 1 million readers a year is such a perk of online writing. I also like having the freedom to set my own hours and my own deadlines, but at the same time that can be a challenge because I’m obsessed with productivity. I work way too much if left to my own devices.

Any type of writing ritual you have?

I always follow a strict keywording and outlining process every time I write SEO. Sometimes it’s very laborious, but it always results in better articles.

Do you believe in writer’s block? If so, how did you get past it? If not, why not?

Anytime an idea for an article strikes me I write it down, so it’s very rare that I run out of ideas completely and have none on the backburner. Sometimes I don’t feel inspired to write on any particular topic I’ve got in reserve, but I force myself to pick one and start working on it. After that, I usually find that I pick up steam as I go.

Share some of your writing goals. Do you have a writing goal you’re working towards?

With three children under the age of 6, writing shorter nonfiction articles is more manageable for me right now. But at some point I’d like to get back into fiction and pursue both types of writing equally. I hope to do this when my kids are a little older and I have more time to myself, but I’m told by other mothers that this never actually happens.

What’s the most interesting book you’ve ever read?

Probably In Defense of Food by Michael Pollan. He has an interesting take on why America is obsessed with health and is simultaneously the least healthy nation in the world. At times I think he purposely tries to be inflammatory because that’s the nature of the book, but he also makes some very good points. I know I changed some of the ways I fed my family after reading it.

Favorite authors?

Charles Dickens, Leo Tolstoy, J.D. Salinger, Virginia Woolf, Nancy Turner, E.B. White, and Dr. Seuss. But I’m willing to read anybody at least once.

Book you’re currently reading?

Slaughterhouse-Five by Kurt Vonnegut. I’m making an effort to read the classics I never read in high school or college.

Where can we learn more about you?

My profile and blog at Suite101 will tell you more about me. About a third of my articles relate to Mormonism, the topic for which I am Suite101′s feature writer, but the rest of my work runs the gamut from kid’s educational activities to budgeting to writing SEO and everything in between.

Additional Writing Resources:

• Make Money From Home – Real Jobs You Can Do by Telecommuting
• Create Multiple Articles from Just One
• How to Write Your Own Ebook in 7 Days
• Freelance Writing Jobs