Here’s where you find the topic of your next post and write it knowing someone out there already wants to read it.
How this works:
In all CAPS, write a non-newsy topic you’d like someone else to write about, e.g., THEORIES ON HEAVEN, THE NEGATIVE EFFECTS OF WATCHING PEOPLE FIGHT ON TV. It can be anything. This is for fun.
Include your Substack URL and handle (@______).
Find a topic in this thread you’d like to write about.
Meet the person who wrote the topic and ask what they’d like to know.
Write on that topic for your next post, mention the person if that feels right. (Use @______), and post it.
Even if you have an editorial calendar set, fit this one in. Substack is all about the network and pushing ourselves as writers. Imagine you just got a new assignment from your editor.
This is much better than Google Trends. Posts get read when they tap into the zeitgeist but haven’t been written about to death. By the time a topic reaches Google Trends, it’s almost flatlined.
-In all CAPS, write a non-newsy topic you’d like someone else to write about, e.g., THEORIES ON HEAVEN, THE NEGATIVE EFFECTS OF WATCHING PEOPLE FIGHT ON TV. It can be anything. This is for fun.
-Include your Substack URL and handle (@______).
-Find a topic in this thread you’d like to write about.
-Meet the person who wrote the topic and ask what they’d like to know.
-Write on that topic for your next post, mention the person if that feels right. (Use @______), and post it.
***I'm thinking I'll devote next week's Office Hours to sharing the results.
Even if you have an editorial calendar set, fit this one in. Substack is all about the network and pushing ourselves as writers. Imagine you just got a new assignment from your editor.
I loved this post, what a lovely day it was, filled with connection, love, friendship, and a sense of wellbeing and contentment. Thank you for sharing this!
I love this, what a wonderful thing to reflect on, how the ordinary can be so wonderful. It reminds me of something I wrote a few years ago, inspired by A Day in the Life by The Beatles, about the magic of the ordinary, the things we don't pay much attention to. I think I might use this a a prompt for my own writing, and would love to read yours!
Hi Reid! I self-published my first book after successfully crowdfunding it on Kickstarter and have been documenting the process here on Substack. Happy to talk about what went into the decision to self-publish vs. traditional publish. Is there anything about the process you’d like to know more about in particular (i.e. querying, writing a book proposal, etc.)? https://open.substack.com/pub/shadesofgreaves/p/diary-entry-1-early-numbers?r=1xiwg1&utm_medium=ios&utm_campaign=post
Hey Carlos! That’s awesome you chose to self-publish! I’m mainly interested in what goes into the decision to self-publish over trying to go the more traditional route first but am also Interested in your game plan for launching and promoting
Okay cool! Long story short, I started to go the traditional route but my book was a tough sell and I didn’t want to change the vision just to make it more marketable. So I crowdfunded the project instead so I could hire my own editor, cover illustrator and designer. But I can definitely go into more detail (and talk about the pros and cons) in a future Substack post!
I've done both and find both have benefits. With traditional you get amazing editors, a team to handle the logistics of printing and covers (what works / what doesn't) and potentially a lot more viewers. Non-traditional, you can make more per book so if you already have an audience financially this could be good. Trad publishing - Many expect for them to handle the marketing and most authors are disappointed. I already have a shop so I was used to launches and did a ton of work and this didn't bother me. If you are expecting them to bring you podcast interviews and opportunities, they will bring some but likely less than expected. For my last traditional published book, I found out THE DAY BEFORE that it would not be in stores and just sold online. Seeing in major bookstores was my big draw so this was like a dagger after 2 years of hard work. Trad publish you need to be ready to talk about a book for years. Self-publish, you can have a shorter timeframe. Also if it's super niche, self-publish is a better option in my opinion. Hope that helps! Just a lot of random facts but if you have specific questions let me know!
Wow Valerie this is super helpful! Thank you so much for sharing your experience. I’d be super bummed too if I found out the day before a launch that it wouldn’t be in stores.
Great resource, Carlos. Next time around, I doubt I’ll bother with an agent. My options will be self-publishing or a very small press that takes unagented mss. I have a shot at selling 1000 copies of my current book in its first year but publishers will not be competing for my next.
How would you react if you discovered the truth that extra-terrestrials were indeed real? How would society react? What’s the worst and best case scenario you can imagine?
Lots of books written about that :) My favorite are those who treat the situation like, "The Aliens are doing things I don't like, but that doesn't mean they are just evil and yucky." Like, Pilgrim by Dickson, or the Jao series.
When I was a kid and we would play the "what would you do if" game, I was always confused when people would say they would be so excited to wake up one day and be able to talk to animals. I think I took the question too literally... and my answer was always about how terrifying and earth-shattering it would be to experience that kind of reality shift. I think the same is true for extra-terrestrials!
Might be hard to get a good story out of it, though, if the kid were so freaked out they couldn't continue with life.
I'm writing a time loop story and my character's first thought is, "I am not going to freak out and make everything super hard like every book I've read on the subject."
Hi Von, Timothy Snyder at "Thinking About..." has written a lot about Ukraine and Russia, including a series titled "Making of Modern Ukraine." https://snyder.substack.com/
I believe he teaches at Yale, and is objective and knowledgeable.
The “On the Media” midweek podcast this week tackled this exact thing. So good. Also, the journalist Anne Applebaum always has great articles on this. It’s her specialty.
I write an advice column 2x/month called Ask A People Pleaser- any relationships in your life that you need advice on? I’ll provide answers from the perspective of a recovering people pleaser, and I’ll provide tips based in emotional intelligence.
I’d love to take a pop at this one. I’ve self published, but have others in progress that I would choose to follow the traditional route. I’ve done a lot of research and reading on this over the years. Is there anything in particular you wondered about or wanted answered?
Hi Tara! Thank you so much for chiming in!! I’m leaning towards the creative freedom of self-publishing, but truly terrified of all the steps to actually get it ~done~. I feel like the safety of traditional publishing (and publisher logo) would make my work feel more legitimate… can you speak to any of this? Thank you SO much for your wisdom!! 💌
I could definitely write about this! I talk about this all the time with my coaching clients. What would like you like to know? What are you leaning toward and what's holding you back?
Hi Heidi! I’m leaning towards self- publishing. I’m held back by the stone cold FEAR of all the millions of steps to get it done RIGHT. I also feel like people trust a traditionally published book more… so you feel that’s true?
It used to be true. I don't think it's quite so true now. It's still tricky to distribute, market, and sell a self-published book. Many bookstores won't shelve them. But if you already have an audience or you have a specific niche, it can work.
There's definitely a learning curve though! I personally don't want to figure out all the steps either! I'll tag you if I end up writing this post :)
Hi Heidi. I have self-published multiple books And there was definitely a learning curve with the first one. But it is definitely the preferred way for me in the kind of work I do and for what I want to use the books for. I want to know if you write the post as well!
I’m specifically wondering what literary magazines and websites are friendly to personal essays that infuse humor (David Sedaris, Samantha Irby, etc.) It’s hard to figure out the voices of each pub and what they’re looking for when there are so many out there
Great one, Carlos. I write a lot of humor and the market is just as fragmented as other types of writing. Most of the best humor sites (The Onion) are staffed and don't accept free-lance submissions.
That’s been my frustration. The only niche that’s a little more straightforward seems to be short-form humor like what you’d find in Daily Shouts or McSweeney’s or Points in Case, which have open submissions but don’t accept personal essays
But it sound like what Carlos is looking for is a little different. I remember someone putting together a list of lit mags that accept humor but it looks like that Medium post has since been deleted, but this old Twitter thread that may have some leads:
Hi Dizzy! I loved reading your first post (the Neopets journey hit hard!) and would love to take a crack at this as it’s something that’s been on my mind a lot lately. Please let me know if there’s anything in particular you’d like me to touch on / anything in particular you’d like to know about this thread :)
I know there’s more than one answer here, but I’d be happy to take a pass at it. I’m currently recovering from a herniated disc and can do very little so I have experienced a lot of space for boredom.
Mmmm, this is a good topic. I host a virtual Resiliency Circle as part of my paid Substack benefits, and some stuff about boredom + the page + creativity came up (quite spontaneously) last night. I wanna write about this, but I also wanna hear more from you!
I see an increasing amount of adults, men and women in my practice with a varying degree of ADHD experience and can write about how this affects life and relationships. What aspect are you interested in reading about Jenny?
I'd love to read relatable stories about other people's experiences. How come you can get to the age of 40, get your PhD, start your own freelance business, supposedly 'achieve' stuff but still feel lost when it comes to getting everything organized on school mornings and before kid bedtime.
Many elements of the topic interest me. But right now I'm particularly interested in the intersection between ADHD and OCD and/or Highly Sensitive People. And, ADHD in perimenopause and menopause. Thank you!
I write a newsletter about ADHD! I focus a lot on research as well as strategies and reflections on executive functioning more broadly. I can definitely work on some posts based on these topics!
This is a national issue, I'd rather see congressional hearings continue and try to come up with regulatory action. It's becoming more urgent by the day.
This subject is really resonating with me, as it really makes me angry when parents 'protect' their children from life rather than 'prepare' them for it.
Wow, I may well have to write this piece anyway, even though I'm not a 'parenting' writer, I am a parent, albeit an empty nester.
This subject is a close one, so perhaps I can share what I have found to be highly effective in this regard.
My son signed himself up for a Facebook account at aged 8. I was not happy, but I did manage to deal with it in a way that led to him deciding to leave it alone for a few years, whilst equipping him with some vital tools to use when he embarked on the next social media experiment.
they're 13 and will be 14 in May. They're still very close to us, fortunately, and oddly so. But my wife is of the mind that we should "protect" them by closing off all the bad stuff out there - at least as best we can. I come more from the "prepare" philosophy. Which is probably another essay - about how to resolve that difference :)
That is tricky if you and your wife don't align. The kids are going to do it anyway, with or without your consent, so what I would do (and what I did) is sit them down and go through ALL the privacy settings of the particular platform they want to use. You will both learn a lot and their account will then at least be protected from the 'friend of friend' defaults that are usually selected so that the company makes more money. The more people share, the more Facebook/Snapchat etc make. This 2 hour technical session was enough to bore my son stupid at 8, and he went off the whole idea for a while, but your kids are nearly adults anyway, so you just need to make sure they know how to protect themselves and their data from strangers.
I'm not sure there is a best answer to that. It depends on the relationship between parents and their kids. I tended to set lose boundaries, trusting their judgement, and for us it worked.
I would love to read something like this. I have a special needs kid with complex health/mental health issues and the whole thing has hijacked the life I thought I'd live, so I definitely feel the grief and resentment at times. I do have an essay close to publishing that touches on this topic a bit more delicately - about the tension between Career and Kids and my mixed feelings, the highs and lows of trying to do both. But I don't plan to be QUITE as raw in the essay as I've been in my darkest moments.
My two special needs kids are on the autism spectrum and have clinical complexities. I totally understand your valid feelings and their source. I'd love to read this essay, whenever it is published!
I love this topic. I wrote a whole book on it. If I were to go back to that time period when my kids were little and I was feeling so many things, I would have so much more fun feeling "the undesirables."
Yes--it was called Recipes for a Beautiful Life. That wasn't specifically the topic, but I felt all those things on the page throughout the book. It was about raising two boys under the age of five while trying to write a novel and live a creative life. I also experienced a lot of beauty, but those feelings were all part of it. In my mind, that's the difference between happiness and joy--happiness is one feeling, joy contains everything.
Thank you so much Claire! You can! It's called, Recipes for a Beautiful Life. You can see a bigger description of it in the comment below. Thanks for your interest!
Hi, Matthew! Just read it, thanks for letting me know. I loved your piece. There is a lot of overlap between this and Recipes for a Beautiful Life (the book I wrote). I remember one day when I was talking to my mother about how much I missed the woman was before I had children--and like you said in your piece--it wasn't that I didn't love my children or would have made different choices, but I missed the woman I was before children--who could walk out of her apartment in NYC, go to lunch with people she knew, and get a freelance job. I love that life, and I missed it. I liked being able to grieve what I'd lost and also enjoy what was coming in at the same time. I tend to feel like we're all all things at once anyway, so I feel like that version of me is still in there. But she WAS pretty dormant for a long time, and grieving that was essential to help the person I had been expand into what I am. I loved what you wrote and LOVE your illustrations. You've inspired me to do a post on this, too. Thanks for tagging me!
I love this suggestion and it mirrors whispers I had percolating about my next newsletter. Just wanted to name gratitude for the idea and will report back and tag you if I run with it 💖
I might take you up on this and want to know a bit more to build an appropriate bridge. I have questions but am happy to do this by email if you prefer, for privacy-sake (matt@matthewsloane.com)
1) what have you tried so far that isn't working for you?
2) what do you believe is getting in the way of feeling or expressing?
PS: I suspect I can relate and also share something useful.
Hi, Cheniece. I've been working through writing my childhood and turning back to face and feel it all. It's led to some great connections between what I received and what I passed on as a parent, and gratefully, what I interrupted and didn't pass on. Key to me is the courage to look at it all - especially those painful emotions you describe. My stack focuses on healing, spirituality, recovery and creativity.
Mine focuses on thriving even with these types of emotions and other parenting hurdles. I'm certain that your introspection and wisdom make your publication amazing to read. I'll check it out!
You asked a good question. If it’s of any help I am in the process of writing healing poems this month. Five women requested poems to heal them from different things… I see that others to relate and find solace in the poems. Three published and two more on the way. Would poetry offer help?
Hi Tanya, I speak about this often from the perspective of how anxiety impacts student learning in school, especially for neurodivergent students. Thanks for sharing this topic because now I’m inspired to write about it more! https://learnwithdremily.substack.com
Thanks for sharing, Emily. I guess I meant more how we have to be emotionally engaged in the material we're learning for us to learn it better, and how when we're pushing on students (children and adults) learning materials that are boring / irrelevant to their lives, we're really not helping them learn. How when I am emotionally engaged (in the material or the topic, or maybe even with the teacher because of their charismatic personality), is there like an area in my brain that lights up and helps me learn? or something like that. But I think it ties in with what you're saying, that it's hard for students to be engaged in the learning process when they're anxious. I'd love to read whatever you write about any of these.
Yes! All totally connected. We learn the most about this topic from autistic students who struggle to learn when something doesn’t feel relevant to them. We all feel this to some extent but engagement increases when we are interested in the topic or when we feel attuned to the teacher (this is rooted in secure attachment). There is a somatic alignment that happens in regards to student-teacher nervous system co-regulation that supports more effective learning. I would call this bottom-up learning and our education system is very top-down as in “here is the curriculum and you will learn it no matter what your emotional state is at this moment.” We can’t learn unless we feel emotional register, safe, and connected.
Very interesting. And what about when we feel attached to the subject matter / when the material feels relevant to us? Is it also rooted in attachment or something else? I know what you mean about re autistic kids being able to learn only if its relevant to them. I am a mother to two kids on the spectrum (although I don't talk publicly about their diagnoses) and I've seen that first hand. Please write about all of these!
I’m also raising an autistic son but don’t talk about it much publicly because that’s his story to tell. So I get that! In my work with autistic kids and teens, they’ve been able to describe to me that their love of their special interests/enthusiasms is also rooted in attachment. They don’t use this word but I’ve seen kids be as enthusiastic about objects as someone would be about their best friend. We have research showing that young autistic children are more interested in objects than people so I see this as an early attachment to interests that isn’t right/wrong just different. I’m super passionate about helping educators understand this to increase more authentic and engaging learning outcomes for all kids, not just those who for the mold.
I would love if someone could give 3-5 actionable takeaways from each episode. I don’t want to listen to the episodes and he doesn’t offer a podcast transcript to scan.
so true. My issue with podcasts is that you can't "skim" them. You can speed them up but I often skim them first, to determine if I want to invest the time to go deep.
I intend to write about INCREASING YOUR ABILITY TO FOCUS AND WHY ITS SUCH A CRITICAL SKILL > Huberman has a good episode on this , so will condense and give some actionable points . https://moordays.substack.com
There is a program called glasp. It's a browser extension that gives you a transcript and a summary of youtube videos. There is another program for your phone called Snipd that does the same thing with podcasts.
I just went and checked and it's not there anymore. There was a transcript tab beside the timestamp one. I see Anthony's comment about the AI so perhaps they've switched up the delivery. Sorry to lead you astray Caitlin.
Caitlin, if you use the Chrome browser, you can add an extension to it that will summarize any YouTube video. There are many such extensions, you can google for it and see which one you like. I used "YouTube Summary with ChatGPT & Claude".
Hey Caitlin! I'm not sure if you've ever looked at Huberman's youtube page, but on there, the podcasts are timestamped pretty thoroughly with descriptions of what he's talking about. It's broken down by topic (in 5ish minute chunks) and also indicates if the particular chunk is a tool/something actionable.
Hi Geoff, I live in Flagstaff, Arizona at 7,000 feet elevation. We are a tourist destination for people escaping the heat of Phoenix during the summer. Am I too far from Texas to be helpful to you?
Great! I will write about Flagstaff for my next post next Friday! I will include pictures, places to tour here, restaurant recommendations, what I love about Flagstaff... anything else in particular you'd like to hear about?
Hello again Geoff, I just wanted to let you know my Flagstaff story may be delayed a week or two. I'm so sorry, we've got to go help my parents unexpectedly and I may have to use an already written piece this coming Friday. But I won't forget. Hope I don't get it out there too late to be useful to you.
Cherie! I thought of Flagstaff, too. I live and travel in a van. And the Coconino Forest outside Flagstaff has been my go-to escape from the heat on multiple occasions. As a side note, my favorite gas station / gas station shower of all time is in Flagstaff. ;)
Will for sure read your Flagstaff post. I'll no doubt be back.
OK, it's not places to escape the heat, but my first Substack newsletter was on three ways to help you stay cool in the heat and the second was a look at why humidity makes it harder to breathe. I launched in the summer :)
Ingrid, I’d like to take such a hike and then write about it. Someday. You’re probably hoping for a more immediate time frame. But it sounds like a nice trip.
Did this with my 8 year old in Slovenia (julian alps) last summer, we stayed in the hiking huts as well. It doesn't fit with my substack theme but I might be able to make it work (PS recommend Slovenia as an amazing hiking destination)
REAL GRIFTERS GETTING THEIR COMEUPPANCE @jemoyer Isn’t it satisfying to learn that someone who has set out to do harm was met with fierce justice? I’d love to hear those stories, perhaps a list of the top ten, & what they did to earn their karma.
Awesome! Taking this on. I love an assignment. I’ll need to ask you, as my assigning editor, for a bit more time. I’m rarely a turn-it-around-in-a-week writer if I can help it. At least I haven’t been since my days as a journalist. ;)
Someone who was raised as a Catholic, to dropping religion in drama school, to evolving over years into my own understanding of it - I am not yet to bravely talk about it just yet - but I am so looking forward to reading your take on it, Holly!
I would like to hear others takes on this as well. I have my own, which I may write about at some point. Thanks for asking Todd, and thanks for writing Holly!
Thanks you! I just did a first draft on this topic this morning. And I really enjoyed doing it. So, I'll probably drop it sometime in March. Thanks for the encouragement, Emily, and the inspiration, Todd.
I never believed in God, although I’m a fan of devotional poetry. My next post, based on a poem by Anne Sexton, is about the use of poetry and art to spark belief in joy and community during a fearful time. I’d love to read other perspectives on kindling and sustaining belief without religion.
Good question, Todd, may I use it in one of my next pieces? I am thinking about creating a more intimate discourse on my Substack like The existential Cafe or something where I would lead into readers questions from an existential (spiritual integrated) point of view. I think this would make for a great conversation!
I have some family that became recent readers, and I have to see if I'm ready to be witnessed talking about this lol! That's a whole 'nother practice! Being okay in your body being seen as yourself.
One thing? Wow. What about a recounting of my spiritual journey from Christianity (Episcopal) through Atheism and Hinduism and Buddhism and Paganism and Mythology and finally (so far) Pantheism?
That would be a great story! My journey goes from Evangelical Baptist to progressive Congregationalist, to Buddhist, then the Buddha led me to Jesus, to the more contemplative and Celtic forms of Christianity, sometimes called Panentheism.
Great question Todd. I'm late to the party but recognize some friends here so I'm curious as to what comes of it. I'm sure others like myself incorporate this question into our substacks so what blooms from this seed will be terrific.
I publish "The Art of Unintended Consequences" on Substack and am looking for interesting takes on either YOUR life-changing unintended consequences or tales you know about. I like to start with a real event then have a bit of slightly fictionalized fun with it.
Well, we have a funny family story we like to tell... with unintended consequences. It all began with a youth group leader organizing a party, and ends with my mother yelling 'Get the gun' out of the window :)
Hi Charlotte. I hope you can. I'm trying to convince Von to share it with me, then you can read it on my Substack. In the meantime, you might have a little fun reading https://davidnemzoff.substack.com/p/scrababble. Free subscription of course.
Sounds like fun. You should definitely read my "Scrababble" Family Game Night story - it involves a fair bit of gun play and knives. If you are interested in sharing your story, I can either write it from your notes (giving you credit of course) or you could guest write it (subject to editing or approval). Interested?
Sounds good. Looking forward to reading it. Reminder so we remain friends 😁 that as a guest writer, the story is subject to review, editing, potential rewrites on my side to ensure it fits in with tone and theme of my Substack, and potentially not publishing it.
I'm sure it will be wonderful, but I would like to keep this a long-term relationship. Oh, and I recommend you read the two stories I linked above to get a feel for the Substack - although I do NOT want you to be a clone of me. Use your own voice. 😉
I'm not sure if "plenty of those" is a good thing or not for you. 🤣 Primarily I am looking for seeds of truth that I can expand on in a fictionalized non-fiction tale I write myself (with credit given for the underlying tale of course).
However, I am always open to guest writers with big tales to tell. Note that they should always start with a truthful event, action, or trigger, but can devolve into something much more interesting. I provided a couple of links in the thread below (Scrababble and Courageous-Cockeyed...) if you'd like an idea.
thanks, David. I am also not sure if plenty of those is a good thing, the jury is out :-). But it makes for a life of transformation. I'll take a look at your links.
Loved Episode 1. I would be interested in Reposting that once I figure out the right introduction narrative. Would you be interested? (With appropriate crediting and linking of course).
What a great topic David! I am interested in this so look forward to checking out your publication. I write about learning to hear our inner whisper and having the courage to listen to it. Currently I'm writing about our natural resistance that comes with that. There are certainly many unintended (wonderful) consequences of following the path of our deepest voice but it's a learned skill.
Dana, I just read this and it absolutely does. Thank you for sharing. I appreciate the vulnerability and honesty and left a comment to hopefully help support your work. I’m grateful for you!
Hi Miriam, I just had a fantastic interview with Alexa of Wild, Cozy and Free about this exact thing. It will be coming out in a few weeks. You can keep an eye out for it here
HOW TO PICK A CAREER - I often joke that I don't know what I want to be when I grow up so I am always mystified by people who start in a career and just go with it. I often feel lost on where to go sometimes.
Hey Brianna! I planned on writing about this at some point. My Substack is about solopreneurship, but I also talk about career and basically choosing your own path professionally. I touch on vocational astrology as well, which can help massively when you're lost like you mentioned. Wanna discuss more so I can write something that you'd be interested in reading?? 🧡
I'm going to be cheeky and jump in here because I'd like to discuss lol
I've often struggle with what I'd like to do, besides writing. I've even looked into astrology but have no idea on how to apply those traits to my outer world!
I was about to post something about wanting more articles about starting businesses, then stumbled on your comment! Just subscribed!! I write about personal finance mostly but am working on starting my own business (launching in a month!!)
Ok, this is great! 😃 Shall we try talking on my chat? I think it's open to all (haven't used it yet though). Otherwise I can open an email thread and discuss there??
Hi Brianna, the flipside of my Carer focus-website is that I'm a mentor with my own company. I've a lot of topics I'm covering with a focus on carers right now but I was going to share my thoughts on some key books that I use with my mentoring clients...here's a link to my affiliate bookshop. You may be interested in the Squiggly Career - Helen Tupper & Sarah Ellis have written some really good books. https://uk.bookshop.org/lists/self-development-leadership-and-work.
My personal opinion - having been on both sides of the interview table, headhunted a few times and having my own business - these days people are less interested in titles and more interested in experiences, skills, capabilities..breadth as well as depth. Everyone has many Squiggles these days ;-) I hope the books can offer new insights and ideas.
You might try out a career counselor who can guide you through a more individualized process. Psychologytoday.com is a great resource, and if you went to university, there's generally help for alums through their career centers for job preparation.
This piece is more job related, but it might be helpful because it has a battery of questions toward the end to ask yourself and work and work environements.
I love this topic as a serial career chaser myself. I could also write something about this through the lens of astrology. If there's anything specific you're looking for, let me know 😍 also open to you E.A. if there's anything specific you want to know!
I define "midlife trauma" as any trauma (acute or chronic) that occurred in your 20s/30s/40s/50s. I consider trauma to be anything that over-activated your nervous system and made you feel unsafe or scared. I particularly love stories that involve the healing power of nature.
Would love to hear from folks! (If you'd like to keep your response private for now, you can email me at joyvictorynyc at gmail dot com)
I'm a professional health editor so I would edit your piece, but I'd run all edits by you in advance. I wish I could offer payment, but not yet.
Great! If you do something on your substack about it, please let me know so I can share. If you'd like to write for my newsletter as a guest post, would you email me at joyvictorynyc at gmail?
Hi Joy - for me, midlife was an unholy intersection of divorce, the grief of involuntary childlessness, a long period of unchosen singleness and undiagnosed peri-menopause. I barely survived it! If this sounds interesting, let's chat :)
Joy, I can share on both of these topics.....thanks for the inspiration. I've overcome plenty of midlife traumas...which one would serve others to share, I'll chew on that. the other one, emotional vulnerability is a topic dear to my heart...this could be a juicy one. I'll message you when I decide.
I am very interested in this discussion. It is difficult to encapsulate my 50th decade (I will be 60 this year) in one comment; however, there have been several events during this decade that have significantly impacted my life. Perhaps we can chat through email: calofs4@comcast.net
Interesting topic. I wrote a piece a long time ago about something that I considered my mid-life trauma that changed the course of my life in a very unexpected way. I never ended up publishing it anywhere but this might be the perfect fit! I'll email you :)
Oh gosh I wrote about this on my Substack last month, my personal story, it’s called ‘finding my grief in the breadmaker’ if you’re interested. 💛https://lettersfromtherapy.substack.com
Hi Joy, my whole substack is about that subject and how I continue to work through the traumas, some of which started at midlife and some from childhood. When I first started writing on Substack, I published an essay that deals with this subject. It's behind the paywall now, but I'd like to share the draft link with you: https://lilypond.substack.com/p/0b35535d-3cb0-4b12-808f-9ca1e40cb27d
Happy to continue this dialog and explore how I can contribute. Thank you!
Hi Joy, This is a topic dear to me as I've tackled several 'mid-life traumas' including an unexpected illness that derailed my life in my 20s, a divorce in my 40s, and learning to advocate and help my only child when he was dismissed by the medical system. I touched on it last week: https://tracymansolillo.substack.com/p/say-yes-to-the-mess
Shi*stomr works! 'Mess' wasn't my choice but I went with it. The hardest thing for me to reconceptualize was the idea that being vulnerable and authentic was a weakness. I was raised to be strong and my family did not talk about any struggle publicly. I couldn't move forward until I fully accepted the various situations/traumas and was willing to embrace them. Healing came when I began to write/talk about them. It was a big step but well worth it.
These are both great topics, Joy. I’m most drawn to the second one as I’ve spent a lifetime trying out various tactics to manage my inherently vulnerable and emotional self. Would love to chat with you about a possible piece around this. I’ve touched on it in a number of posts, but writing something g geared specifically toward this might be interesting.
Joy, I’ve written about my experience getting diagnosed with breast cancer (after being laid off and deciding to create my own work as a consultant). I’m still working through this and almost every weekly letter I write touches on that journey. Here are two: https://open.substack.com/pub/usefulbeautiful/p/i-decided-this-is-the-title
Ooh I love this, Joy, and I had to pop in and mention that the post I just posted this morning is indirectly about how I use trees to self-regulate inside chronic illness (and with a trauma history, discussed elsewhere in my work). This post overtook one I was planning to be directly about the trees, so the next post will probably be directly about the trees 😄
Hi Victoria. I'd be interested in taking up this call. A lot of what I've already written about is to do with this aspect of songs in our lives. The most focussed post so far (and the one most about me rather than about others) is 'Songs for Some People I May Have Been' (https://songstudies.substack.com/p/songs-for-some-people-i-may-have). That's a series I plan on continuing, though I'd also be intersted in doing something a bit more focussed along the lines you suggest. Best wishes, Richard
Thanks Richard. Please do. I'd like to make a compilation of short stories and playlist for my readers. Feel free to write however you wish. I hope others will take this up too. Feel free to go more in-depth too in an additional article too!
My hope is that we have several 'Uplifting experience-stories' Readers can read each one while the song plays alongside it. To remind ourselves about Good things, meaningful moments.
This one might be for me, Victoria! I have so many. And I am a singer songwriter who has written and recorded two albums and dozens of other songs. And my dad has dementia. I have a dear friend, a well known writer, whose dad was a linguist. He disappeared into senility until she discovered they could converse through song. For a year they shared memories, joys and sorrows through song. https://camillebrightsmith.substack.com/
Hi Camille - I'm going to publish an article today BUT I wanted to ask, if you're still interested, could you write an article with music-memory for a second article? I'd be interested in your thoughts when you read the AARP part. I'm publishing the first one soon today. As a musician and our friend's experience this could be an intriguing read.
So crazy - I have a music memory draft I was gonna to reach out about today. Not sure if it’s exactly what you want but it is def music memory and my Poppa. His dementia is getting worse pretty fast so I’ve been struggling with writing time. But I started something.
Hey Camille - can you subscribe to Carer Mentor and then we can have our own discussion via email. Please don't put pressure on yourself. I'm keeping track of everyone who wants to contribute - there are another 10 writers who would like to write something. Sending hugs. I know how painful this time is.
You've really gotten me thinking on this one Victoria. Songs trigger all kinds of memories for me. I'll give this some more thought and give it a go. I've written about the power of music on health and wellness (not here yet, but it's in the queue). Great idea!
Hi Daria - I'm publishing the first article today, but I'll be doing follow-ups. Have a read and let me know if you'd like to add to the initial article that focuses on the 'soundtrack of our lives, and special moments' or if there is a particular angle you'll write about inspired by this first article let me know and I'll link to it in a follow-up. Music and memories are potent connectors!
Victoria, my apologies for missing the deadline. I actually have an unfinished draft, which fits with the soundtrack of our lives and special moments. Two very unrelated things with two different songs by the same artist.
Hi Daria - please don't apologise; there was no deadline, really. I just wanted to get the first article out because there were already 14 pieces, incl. my anchor article. I'm already looking forward to doing some follow-up pieces so feel free to write 2 articles if that makes more sense. I'm going to keep the underlying theme of music and memory or music is more powerful than words, because I see it as a deep human connector - something we all need! SO, no rush, no pressure. I'll be delighted to link your work, whenever you can in whatever form. It's completely up to you.
Beautiful. Rules shules ;-) thank you! You're number #1 on the list...and also because the Alan Sylvestri is the inspiration piece I use when I'm writing!
Movie themes for me too. So much Nostalgia! I listen to John Williams when I go to bed, and to the Harry Potter playlist when I'm writing (even though Potter is generally appreciated by the generation just after mine).
I recently made a playlist of all the songs that reminded me of different moments in my life. It is amazing how you are immediately back in that place or time when your hear music.
If you can pick the most uplifting moment - could you do a little article for me? It's amazing how music and someone else's story can create empathy & connectivity - just what caregivers need when isolated at home with a loved one.
Oh my gosh that rendition of La vie en rose was gorgeous. I've never heard of Daniela Andrade thanks I'll link to that one I think, Sue, but I'll make a note of the other one too. Brill!
As you know as a subscriber to my Substack Victoria (& thank you for that) I include a song every week that somehow captures ‘dementia’ for me, whether it’s the particular loss a caregiver feels, the way I imagine my mother may feel locked in her world, or songs that I know she loves. Yet I’ve never written about music & dementia, the way I always play her beloved Frank Sinatra when I’m in the car with her, hoping to elicit a smile or at least for her a feeling of contentment or safety.
Hi Kate - I'm publishing the first article today, but I'll be doing follow-ups. if you're still up for writing an article let me know if you'd like to write something for a follow up piece. In today's article there's a piece by the AARP, there are many pieces within that that sparked thoughts. Let me know if you'd like to share a personal music memory or about something that inspires you from this first article.
Hi Catriona - I'm publishing the first article today, but I'll be doing follow-ups. Have a read and let me know if you'd like to add to the initial article that focuses on the 'soundtrack of our lives, and special moments' or if there is a particular angle you'll write about inspired by this first article. Let me know and I'll link to it in a follow-up. Given your travels may be there's am article on your favourite places and music?!? Best and worst places?!? Any angle is great. I'd like to keep the music-memory as a core theme but any angle is great. Thank you!
Lovely idea! By coincidence I was just checking out your Substack. I write Sandwich Season (https://sandwichseason.substack.com/), about caring for aging parents and growing kids, and recently lost my mom to dementia. Mulling now on songs that brought her joy ... the ones that bring my son joy ... and mine. When do you plan to share your song/story list with readers?
I love beautiful coincidences. My heartfelt condolences, Sarah. BIG empathetic hug.
There is no deadline I will curate it like I do all my 'Evergreen' articles: https://www.carermentor.com/t/table-of-contents. The Resonance one, works well as a reference for Caregivers. I'll start this new Evergreen and keep adding to it...this way everyone has a place to go for uplifting inspiration!
Hi Sarah - the first article is going out today, but there will be follow ups. There's no pressure or stress. I love your thinking about 3 generations of music memories and connection. Have a read of today's article - feel free to suggest something springboarding from the article or pursue whatever angle you wish to use. Let me know when you're near completion and I'll see how I weave things in a follow up with other writers. Thanks!
Hi Victoria -- Thank you for circling back and the gentle nudge! Lots going on here in the caregiving realm, but I will get back to you on this. Looking forward to reading your recent post! More soon ...
I love this! Just from reading this I immediately flicked through songs in my head that have such a mixture of emotions from utter sadness to happiness for me. There are also songs I cannot listen to anymore because they make me feel ill, its such a strange sensation that when I tell people they don't believe me.
Hey Sophie - great. Uplifting memories please. Caregivers have some tough struggles and need all the empathy and connectivity possible. We all need a place to go for some good memories and songs ;-) I SOOOOOO Believe you!
Hi Sophie - If you're not too turned off by sharing a music memory, take a look at the first article that goes out today on this topic. There will be follow-up articles (see my replies above to folks). I wouldn't want to cause you emotional pain reliving painful memories. If you have thoughts and would still like to write a piece, whatever angle you'd like re. music and memories I'd appreciate it. No pressure or stress, I think I'll continue this theme as a 'connector' for quite a while ;-)
I’ve written something slightly adjacent to this — music that stimulates creativity & inspires art. I’m not sure if it’s exactly what you’re looking for, but I thought I’d share. https://shinjinim.substack.com/p/silence-and-music-in-art
I love your creativity and the intertwining of music and art - could you add the music you listened to? It's not quite what I was looking for but we are each 'lifted' by music in different ways, and I would like to be all inclusive!
Music transporting us to better/more lifted space...was my thought...to be connected beyond our isolated space...
I love this so idea so much. My father has Alzheimer's and one of the things that makes everything sweet in the house when we're together is music--especially Mexican folk music or anything from the Will The Circle Be Unbroken Nitty Gritty Brass Band album.
Hi Rebecca - BIG empathetic hugs. Have a look around my website, I hope something resonates. My Dad had Vascular dementia, we listened to a lot of classical music together. If you can I'd love to read more. (love your cat drawing!)
Hi Rebecca - The first article is going out today on this topic, but here will be follow-up articles (see my replies above to folks). I'd love to hear and learn more about Mexican folk music. In today's article, there is some interesting research done by AARP that may interest you as it validates why music is so therapeutic for your father!
I think I'll continue this theme as a 'connector' for quite a while so no pressure or stress - read today's article and let me know what angle you'll have and I'll link when you're done. Thanks!
I would love to share this post that I wrote about Barbra Streisand and what she meant to my mom (and me as a child and continuing today) and the significance of her music right before my mom passed away.
Hi Charlene, Thank you for sharing this beautiful article. I love Babs too. It would be quite fitting for me to put your article in the one I have on Dementia. It is one of my 'Evergreens' - one of my fave Barbara songs ;-)
Thanks, I was thinking of making an overall collection and I'll make a playlist based on all the songs and music...so it'll be a hyperlink to your article I think. I'll figure something to direct to your site.
Thanks Kate! Let me know if you have a song/ piece of music and a short, uplifting story, no matter how long or short. As YOU know even the small things can nurture our soul deeply.
GOOD HEALTH INSURANCE PRIOR TO REACHING MEDICARE AGE. When my husband retires in the next year, we will need to find good health insurance for 2-3 years, but can't afford the $2,000 / month it would require to stay on the insurance we have now through his employer. There must be something out there, but I need help finding it!! Thank you to anyone who decides to take on this topic!
I might try to write about this, but it’s state specific! I just recently had experience with the New York State marketplace and prices range from $600+ (can be lower with financial assistance!). Definitely lower than $2,000/month, exact price would depend on your state
Great Maria, thank you! Yes, state specific and there's two of us so that will increase the price, but just some ideas of where to start looking. I know about ACA (Obamacare), but is there any other options out there to compare? I appreciate any suggestions!
I would totally read it if you wrote about it, Maria. I live in New York State so it would be helpful to me, but I'm guessing even if you wrote about your own journey and how you got the information that would help people in other states navigate the labyrinth.
Same here. I could do some research and write a reported personal essay on this topic (in fact I probably will one day) but I'd rather hear from an actual neuroscientist.
Loving this one! I'm not a neuroscientist but I am a therapist, so it's something I've explored and done research deep-dives into in the past, and might be able to put something together about. I'll be sure to tag both you and Tanya if I go for it!
I’m a big fan of Wintering so a guest post along those lines would be lovely, Kolina. I usually ask for around 500 words (since it’s designed to be a “notelet” and forms part of a longer post) and I have a spot in two weeks!
Look forward to reading this guest post, Kolina, and always fun to meet a fellow Minnesotan here! Agreed, hygge is a necessity. Hello from up in Grand Marais! 👋🏻
Hi Emily! I adore Grand Marais! My family goes up to Schroeder every fall and we always take a day trip up to GM. I see you're a fiber artist! Love that. My mother-in-law is a basket weaver, so fiber arts interest me a great deal. Really nice to connect with a hygge-practicing Minnesotan! 👋🏻
This sounds like a fun topic! I could write about this from a writing perspective. Making your work environment cozy and inviting is a good first step to take when you feeling some resistance around your writing. What else would you want to know about this topic?
I'm keen to find posts on SONGS FROM OUTSIDE THE ROCK-POP CANON (especially as defined by Anglo-American critics/fans) and POPULAR MUSIC FROM BEYOND THE ANGLOPHONE WORLD.
Those are big interests of mine even if that's not (so far) always reflected in my Songs and Objects Substack:
WHAT DANCERS and ACTORS KNOW ABOUT EMBODIMENT and FAVORITE TECHNIQUES FOR FINDING IT
@juliarymut
I'm traveling today so I may be slow in tracking to questions or comments. But I'm really curious and this question. I'd love to hear your perspectives. Thank you so much!
She's not on Substack, but Hannah de Keijzer is a great resource for this if you're just interested in general. She's a choreographer, dancer, writer, and editor, and she gets it. https://hannahdk.com/feel-good-where-you-work
Thank you for prompting this, Julia. I trained extensively in improv & the Theatre of the Oppressed and now explore things like poetry, film, the tarot through a combination of movement/ gesture and imaginal awareness — I enjoy your work & will give you a hello the next time I publish on this delicious topic!
Mmm mmmm mmm, yes. As a retired actor and acting teacher, it's one of the primary ways I healed my life and found truth in my expression. It's like a secret language that actors and dancers have long known, and the world is catching up. It also has some pitfalls. Let me know how I support or assist.
I was recently pondering about how many spiritual and physical practices I am now discovering elsewhere - were there in tiny moments in my drama school training. It's all so linked! I love reclaiming that path!
Thank you, Mary. I'm just returning from my travels, digging out my inbox, and getting back to my routine. I'll circle back when I have my thoughts collected. Thank you for your thoughts!
Ooh i can definitely write on this, Juila. I am a mostly self-taught dancer and I began with the purpose of wanting to reconnect with my body and my pleasure, so I've learned lots of tools in the process!
Thank you so much, Faye! I really appreciate this link. I started reading it and within the first 2 pages, it had already articulated what I've been trying to say for a long time. I stopped to print it out so I could read it more closely. I can't wait to finish it. Thank you.
If/when you write about this, let me know. I'm really interested to hear what you have to say. In my explorations on embodiment, I find that people with different backgrounds describe embodiment differently. Yogis, trauma therapists, dancer/actors, doctors--they have their own language to describe the experience and sometimes, it seems like they're describing totally different experiences. I've been very curious to see where there is overlap.
It's a pleasure to share! I come back to the article often. So far I have not found a more poignant exploration of embodiment through the written word.
I absolutely will let you know when I write about it. And now that you mention it, I'm also quite intrigued about the overlaps. I imagine that would be quite illuminating in this realm of experiences that often transcend language.
Hi Lori, I'm going to be writing about Flagstaff, Arizona from the perspective of a local next Friday and it's a great place for families, but can be expensive depending on time of year and how far away you are.
I’ve got a good amount of this on my blog…now to get it in substack!! We did Portugal as a family of 4 and it was incredibly inexpensive just by nature of the destination!
I’m working on cape cod, Massachusetts by town in my substack drafts at the moment!
Will follow up with links to current travel if this interests you.
at the bottom are some round ups with all my blog post links to porto, lisbon, and lagos, portugal, links to airbnbs (which were all inexpensive!) are in the blog posts too.
one post with lots of considerations for / when travelling with kids (mine are little!)
However you want to do it. But I'm thinking more in line with why we need to belong so badly that some people will fake their true beliefs in order to fall in line with a tribe. I know it was key to our survival originally but it's not any more and people are even more blindly loyal, even if it's a cult.
I'd suggest looking into attachment theory. I write on this kind of thing from time to time. If you want to think about familiar behaviors as being comforting, people are attracted to what makes them feel safe, even if the behaviors being evidenced are abusive, self-serving, and manipulative--often from family of origin-related learned behaviors, but also because we can have a tendency to pendulum toward the opposite of what we grew up with as a reactionary measure. I'd be tempted to write on this, but it might be too broad to cover in just one go.
I have done a lot of work and writing on approaches to collaboratively designing a better future. If something like that fits I'd be happy to discuss it.
Sorry, I realize now that you were probably talking about something else than I was thinking. My area is what is called things like human systems design, human systems dynamics, or social systems design. This involves methods for enabling groups of people to co-design and implement a shared future, specifically in an effort sometimes called conscious evolution.
I think I'm with Doug here. I was thinking Lilly was talking about human systems/design. However, now I am interested in this other kind of human design and will check out your Substack and Doug's. Thanks!
Yeah, I’d like to know how to explain human design, too. I have understood that human design was channeled, and also/yet is a combination of multiple systems. I don’t think that channeled wisdom falls into the science category - but the phenomenon of channeling itself from a quantum physics type perspective, that could be a good read.
Yeah, I’d like to know how to explain human design, too. I have understood that human design was channeled, and also/yet is a combination of multiple systems. I don’t think that channeled wisdom falls into the science category - but the phenomenon of channeling itself from a quantum physics type perspective, that could be a good read.
I'd love to hear about your personal experience, Cheniece! More specifically, the unexpected challenges you've encountered, especially in a world so unkind, and how you've overcome (or continue to work through) them. I'm not sure about your's and your partner's backgrounds, but I'm also curious to hear stories of parents from different countries who have had to choose where to raise their children and how they came to the decision.
Ah, I see. Me and my partner are both American, different races. He's white and I'm black. We have two biracial children that we raise together in the southern USA state of Mississippi, where ignorance and racism, even from family and "friends", have affected us enough to write (a lot) about. If this is any help to you, I see this as fascinating to write about personally.
AHH yes!!! I would love to read about your story, Cheniece! It would be really helpful to hear more about the ignorance and racism you face, especially from family and "friends".
You've got it. Those subjects will be so interesting for me to address, as there is a lot of experiences that I could share about them. If you don't mind, tell me more about what exactly you're looking for so far as a format and contents. Even some writing prompts or questions to guide me would be excellent. I'd love to get this done!
Okay I've been sitting with it for a minute, let me know if any of these spark interest for you:
- a "how to" style of addressing racism from those you love for parents of biracial children
- how to navigate what's best for your kids and how you make decisions as a couple and/or where you disagree or see things differently and how you move through it
- a letter to those who are ignorant and what you wish they could understand
I'm pretty open because there is so much I do want to know that couldn't possibly be put into one piece, so take it in a place that feels best for you!
I’m biracial and wrote a tad about this in a recent post (erikatovi.substack.com/p/missed-in-translation). I have some ideas for future posts centered around my experience growing up among mostly white friends and communities. Is there anything in particular you’d want to know about that experience?
I loved reading your post, Erika! I'd love to hear more about what it was like for you growing up in mostly white communities. Your perspective of being a biracial child is one I'm really interested in, too. I'd like to hear about challenges regarding your sense of identity, if you've experienced that. I'm also curious to know your experience of connecting to your Japanese culture while being raised in America. Was there anything your family did that you really appreciated (or appreciate now looking back)? Or maybe wish they did differently?
This might be fun for me to tackle. I was a Media Studies major in college. I was annoyed with some of the media coverage around the Super Bowl and Taylor Swift. Around rage specifically, I'm thinking of what I read just today about Fani Willis taking the stand to testify in her own trial about prosecutorial misconduct. This isn't really my niche, but I do take a feminist angle in my writing and this could be a fun little side-project :)
Women exhibit rage often, generally in the form of passive aggression, manipulation, cold-shoulder, professional or interpersonal sabotage in social groups. I see examples of this mostly in television and film, so this entirely depends on how you define media.
Would love to contribute to or read about or discuss personal experiences with businesses that are both good for their employees and good for the world.
I like this topic Doug. Although I think this requires some real PhD-style independent research - to get under the skin of when companies' outer faces line up with their internal workings :). I have worked a long time in organisations working for social impact and have not found many examples where these too correlate to being good for their employees. And I think anecdotes can vary based on personal journeys etc. Do you have any examples from your experience? Maybe the article could be 5 indicators that businesses are good for their employees and good for the world?
That's a good idea to break into 5 indicators as I would ultimately like to encourage people to invest in and seek out companies that are positive for world. I have some research and personal examples from my org change work on the positive correlations of workplace wellbeing /L&D initiatives on ROI and employee satisfaction. I agree with you though, there is a lack of solid research on the connection and there is some concern that its more of marketing show than reality.
Similarly, there are companies identified through various competitions and evaluations as being good "conscious companies." I want to believe those exist and hope that as we go we'll figure out how to foster them. But, even so the research is on, past initiatives not what is emerging, and I would like to hear the stories of people who were actually there.
I haven't read that! Thanks, I'll add it to the list. It looks especially interesting because in fact I work with some companies in India who are using entrepreneurship and innovation to help rural communities and fight pollution. I've definitely had the sense that what Yunus is talking about is happening there.
I would like to see more about the dangers of banning books and other content on society as a whole, or from an angle of the benefit it has for the government. Maybe even a look back through history and what was happening in the world when certain books have been banned.
My own works, which are really relatively benign, have been censored: not by anyone who read them, but by computer algorithm. I am not making this up. Indeed, two of my novels are selling on Barnes & Noble in paperback, but they have been banned in digital format. There is no one to whom I can appeal.
Suffice it to say that our Western cultural heritage will not be harmed if all of my books are removed from circulation. I have only modest pretensions as a story-teller, and I recognize the realities of the publishing world at this time -- particularly for an introvert with no marketing skills. A number of great works, many now deemed classics, were banned and even burned (or otherwise destroyed).
I am interested in learning about the experiences of others with censorship, and I hope we can put our heads together and find a way to combat it. Many thanks for your input.
Oooh, I LOVE both these topics! Here's an answer to your second one from a piece I'm working on--but it includes both because--one of my favorite things about perimenopause is that I get to be THE CRAZY AUNT.
Here is an anectdote from the past with magical realism.
"So one day, while I was meditating, the whales came in..
They floated in like moonbeams. Old. Gorgeous. Calmed by a velvety blueness of deepest parts of the ocean. They said: connect to us daily—no, that’s probably too hard. Connect to us often! When you meditate, or when you feel like it. Write down what we say. Do this for three months and see what happens.
This past week I was at the party after the funeral for my father-in-law, in the kitchen talking to my son and my nephew. We were all sad and happy to be with each other and my nephew said something about how his parents never let him play video games.
I said I’d lost that battle in my house. I didn’t want my kids playing video games at all. But they did—for hours--and finally I said, “Fine. Have at it. But for every hour that you play Fortnite, you have to go outside and take a ten-minute tree bath.”
“I don’t remember that at all,” said my son.
“You did it a few times,” I said.
My nephew shook his head and reached for a beer. He said, “Aunt Rebecca, I love you. The crazy hippie shit that comes out of your mouth…”
Good, I thought. Everyone needs a crazy aunt. A woman who wears red pants in her 50s, draws cats, says crazy shit, talks to the whales when she meditates.
So I connected to them, each time I meditated, for three months. Then a year. Then I kept going because who wouldn’t want to talk to highly evolved beings that have been on the planet for millions of years, traveling the seas, singing to each other? It doesn’t matter to me whether or not it’s real. I just like being alive this way.
They said, your job is to approach your work with a glad heart! That’s all. That’s money. First, make yourself happy--the way you are right now. Or, do some other thing that makes your heart lift, even if it’s a good cup of coffee and time with the cat. THEN go to work. That way you can send your happiness to others.
They said: All humans have a song that is unique to you, a note that only you can hit perfectly. Find this note, you knew it as a child. Cherish it, celebrate it, and love it. There is no other song like it and it will not exist after you are gone. Sing it always! That’s what we do all day long in the bottom of the sea. This is how we hold the world. This is how we find each other a thousand miles away.
“Old. Gorgeous. Calmed by a velvety blueness of deepest parts of the ocean.” Love it. Love your nephew loving the crazy hippie shit that comes out of your mouth. Love the whales holding up the world and telling you about it. Thank you, thank you, Rebecca! You have totally made my day. 💕🐳
Aww, thank you so much Holly! I felt pretty vulnerable releasing part of an essay before I publish the whole thing--thank you for your warm response. You have made my day!
I absolutely will. Thank you so much for your interest. You inspired me to work on one of the other magical realism pieces in these series I've been working on about a 50 year old woman who goes to psychic school. I'm excited to start reading your work. I see a sisterhood of the red pants forming....
OMG SHELL 🐚 YES To what the whales told you about singing your own song. I'm a singer who sings every day while I'm in or beside the Salish Sea. Singing with the seals and seagulls and orcas and the sky ! It's lovely to become semi-weird.
PS. I am also the crazy hippie aunt for sure. Often the crazy hippie aunt whose van is parked in the niblings' driveway. 🤣 And I have a pair of bright red pants I adore.
OMG, Julie! Thank you, thank you. I am at the beginning and confounded by a symptom I had not fathomed as a possibility (joint pain). I have long promised myself to take on this phase with joy. I believe the more knowledge I can attain, the better I’ll be able to do so. :)
Immediate pro tip: Start taking Type 2 (has to be type 2) collagen - won't do much for skin but DOES help joints. Don't need a fancy brand, just go to Swanson or a no-frills place that does quality. Anti-inflammatory diet will help, too (unfortunately, because that means less sugar and refined carbs). Also: Don't fear Hormone Therapy unless you have a history of breast cancer or high likelihood of it. That's been debunked but honestly, modern OB-GYNs weren't trained on it and it's a trial and error to find the right kind. You must be on progesterone if you take estrogen via patch or orally - if they say otherwise, run. That's my quick note but I will get a post out there. Happy to answer questions. I know WAY too much about all of this and we just exited our company so I have no horse in this race except helping women.
Julie! Thank you. this is spot on to the research I've been doing. Just got some collagen. Gonna check now to make sure it's type 2. Thanks! I am so excited for and appreciative of this coming post. :)
Also if you do not take fish oil, take one. Needs to be high quality though, ideally refrigerated. Carlson is good, there are other good ones. You can also start eating more whole sardines and anchovies if that works for you.
Solidarity! I had horrific joint pain too - in my hands. I was unable to write or type for months. It was devastating. Thank goodness HRT solved it and I can write again. Also, acupuncture helps.
Ouch - hips and shoulders. That's tough. Wishing you smooth and speedy healing. HRT has been wonderful for me. If I forget to change my patch on time my hands start aching - I've dubbed them my oestrogen canary-in-the-coal-mine.
Wonderful! Will follow you to learn more. Meanwhile, goji berries were a life-saver for me. I don’t remember the nutritional reason but they really helped with hot flashes. Plus, not drinking red wine. 😭
Great tip. Thanks, Julie. Notice I only said tip. Goji berries I'm here for. No red wine? 😬 J/K, willing to try what works. But I do enjoy a glass of red from time to time. :)
Hot Flashes are not well understood but one thing that actually works well for them is hypnotherapy if you want to avoid supplements or hormones. Acupuncture is good too. I personally think everyone should see a functional MD if that's possible for you in terms of $ and access. They are booked and hard to find. The Hot Flash supplement we made also gets good reviews. The company name is Wile. We just exited so I have no direct tie anymore, just letting you know.
Hi Holly, I understand that you're interested in knowing more about perimenopause. I went through that in my mid-30s actually, with hormonal imbalance that led to gigantic fibroids. I went into menopause in my mid-40s, so I went through the whole process. I actually wrote a piece on menopause on Medium a few years ago, which also touches on a bit of my perimenopausal experience. It doesn't address your topic precisely, but I think it might spark some new thoughts: https://louisawellness.medium.com/defining-menopause-with-powerful-metaphors-d0303f34580b
Thank you, Holly! I'm open to discussing my personal experience with perimenopause if you'd like to hear more. I would love to write about it, too... but it's a huge topic in my mind, and my current medical condition prevents me from doing so pronto. P.S. Hmmm, maybe I can just repost this Medium piece on Substack, because... why not? ;-) Thanks for your inspiration!
I write about Ayurveda for women's health, including menopause... I'm very interested in the initiation / empowerment that comes from menopause so I'll get my thinking cap on! Great idea!
Mine was brutal for about a year but I've recently found a place of balance. Thank goodness! I love Holly's request (challenge!) to seek the positives. A year ago I'd have thrown that idea from a high window but maybe now I can do it.
When I was writing my short film, I was sitting in meditation and in my imagination an entire scene with a small girl in a field of dandelions, opened up and played out before me. I tried to bring my attention back to releasing my thoughts but it wouldn't let go. It ultimately became my opening scene in my film and the name of the film, Dandelion. It was the perfect image to share of a small girls wishes versus the reality that came next. It was a gift!
I began a process of connecting with the moon cycles (to replace menstrual cycles) to create natural rhythms for my creativity with an Arts Council funded Moonpause project, which I’m turning into a Substack. Not there yet with the ‘what I’ve learned’ but working on self-compassion through writing and living with/embracing uncertainty.
Oh yay! I'm glad to hear it. Tag me for sure in a note or something if either or both results in something that rises to the surface. Would love to read!
HOW TO RECOVERY FROM SEXUAL TRAUMA It's daunting even typing those words because I don't believe there's a '3 step plan' to healing, but I want to at least create something that could be a useful starting point for other survivors.
Hi Clare - I relate to this - not sure I am in a place to write a 3 step healing plan and honestly I wouldn't believe anyone who did :) but I think that useful starting point angle you suggest is interesting.
Thank you Catriona. My first draft was more like a 19 point plan, but I'll finesse it into something that might be useful to people. I'm happy to discover your writing too. I spent the first part of my career in the international development/non-profit world, and am looking forward to reading more from you.
Yes a 19-point plan sounds more nuanced to me tbh. I am looking forward to hearing what you write about this - you have got me thinking how I would approach that question. And that is so nice to connect to another fellow international development professional. Lovely to be connected.
Hi Claire, I think a 19 point plan is definitely more realistic. I also think they’re a lot of people out there who would really want to read this but don’t feel they’re qualified even though they’ve experienced it (like me). Do we ever feel qualified to write about this? But it’s so necessary and as you say, healing. Thanks for typing those words.
I responded to another writer's desire for TRAUMA stories. Didn’t really face my sexual trauma till I moved to a native village near Seattle, where I learned from indigenous elders how to heal, with earth-based practices. Long daily walks.
Ooh this resonates. Walking was the only form of exercise I could cope with for a period. In many ways, it saved me. Thanks for the comment, Christine.
I'm not qualified to write this, but I wanted to share I am in a course with several others that are engaged in learning Nervous System Regulation (based on polyvagal theory) in order to address sexual trauma. Her name is Sarah Baldwin, and she has shared publically that she experienced sexual abuse.
Thanks you for these recommendations, Matthew. I'm going to check out Sarah's work. (& for the record, I also feel unqualified to write thie piece. But I might still try.) Thanks for the comment, I really appreciate it!
SELF-DISCIPLINE AS A WRITER - I'm looking for day-by-day tips. I already have a weekly schedule (e.g. posting on Substack at the weekends) but otherwise I've been struggling to not give myself too much to do (and then get overwhelmed by how much I have to do). I'm doing better than I was, but I could do with some guidance, please <3
Hi E. A! This sounds great. Are you interested in figuring out how to balance multiple projects from day to day? Like work on your fiction and your Substack consistently?
I balanced different projects/subjects fairly easily when in formal education - I was thinking of making a proper timetable for myself? But there's been a pandemic since then, and I've been trying to get myself back to a better balance ever since :)
Did you do Sara Fay's goal setting workshop? She had a cool planner. But I've mostly been using the Pomodor App to set tasks for myself each day, like one task from each of the projects I'm currently working on. I like knowing that I'll do 2 Pomodoors (I set them for 30 minutes each) on the book proposal I'm writing, then shift to 2 or more Pomodoros to write a first draft of my latest Substack post.
Very similar how I am working these days, on four different Film/TV scripts and a weekly (brand new, so lots to figure out still...) Substack! The timer has beat the procrastination out of me and helped me to have healthier work patterns AND move on with work, daily!
E.A., I'm a systemizer. I find that creating for myself templates and step-by-step processes I follow as part of my writing/publishing/submitting practice makes it that much more doable. Is this an angle you'd be interested in?
I kind-of do things like this already (I recently cracked what sort of plot works for me re novel-writing, given the characters I have), but it definitely needs improvement.
My bigger problems are a) finding a method of organising that works for me, and b) not having to keep it all in my head (e.g. if I had a step-by-step process, like you do, I'd like to be able to actually get it out of my head and into a document that I could just pull out and refer to when I needed it, and for that to be that. At the moment, any methods I try keep changing because of changing circumstances).
Yes, I might be your girl, then. Docs and sheets have been created!! They do evolve though. I think it would take me a little longer than next week to craft something that might make sense. But I’ll give it a try and tag you if it comes together.
In the longer term, a workshop or two on this very subject has been a gleam in my eye. I currently host workshops on being your own editor and plan to host more in fall. I’ve been wondering if people would be interested in systemizing as a topic of the fall workshops--the idea being you’re your own managing or assigning editor. So this request give me encouragement.
In the meantime, I’ll work on drafting something I could post sooner. Thanks, E.A.!
I am a big fan of setting a timer for 20-30 minutes, 3x a week, and sitting down, taking one thing I'm struggling with: a scene, a moment, a story beginning or an ending, and then writing that whole time without looking up. I am amazed at what I can do in 20 minutes. I am amazed at what my clients and people I write with can do in 20 minutes. It's beautiiful! For my first book I had a three hour a day practice, now I have a 20-30 minutes a day practice. (Sometimes I do it a few times a day.) It is much easier and more freeing. For me, that idea that a writer has to do HOURS a day is old, and may never have been true in the first place. (If I'm honest, when I wrote that way there was a lot of getting up and having coffee or snacks or looking out the window and dreaming in the world from whatever character I was working with's point of view. ) I also like to vary my creative practices, so I don't get stuck one thing and overwork it. I love this topic, so if you have more questions, let me know!!
I also don't do hours and hours a day actualy writing (I'd say that daydreaming about my characters counts as part of the writing process).
I'm the same re varying things - I like to vary re what projects I do, for the same reasons as you. One of my problems is that I'm doing that too much, getting way too distracted, etc.
I didn't know there was a name for it--it might be the Pomodoro method. That is such a good question about reining it in. I don't know what would work for you, but for me when I get like that, I put everything in piles, so they each have their own space. Then I sit down and meditate and ask which one wants to be worked on. Then I give it my full attention. I'm thinking about offering one of these meditation fueled creative practice sessions to my readers. Do you think that's something that would be helpful to others? It helps me get more focused, that's for sure!
I love starting with an inner inquiry. I do soul journaling— ask my wise inner sage what to focus on, how to approach a problem, etc. When I do this first, or a walk holding the same questions - everything flows better.
I love this tip! I'm a romance and short story writer and I also struggle a lot with having a consistent writing time, but I might as well try the 30 mins trick, it sounds very doable. Thank you for sharing!^^
It’s a really good topic. Maybe I’ll write about this. I do the ‘golden hour’ - and write for an hour every morning first thing, which produces a post about once a week. I think routine helps so you dont have to think too much, sounds like you have one for the weekends
I realize the instructions to write the topic in all caps, but it's funny to read your suggestion thinking the all caps is yelling the idea at me lolol
Oh, Daria. This is a topic I think about a lot. I don't know if I could write my way into any real answers, only explorations of why I feel my own blood boil more quickly than it use to and attempts I've made, to varying degrees of success, to have civilized discourse.
That would be interesting. Anything that sheds light on why people can't seem to talk about things anymore without getting mad. I'd love to read about your experience with this. I'm really seeking understanding. There are conversations I just can't have at all with some friends and family. It's so unfortunate. They get mad and make it personal, which makes me mad. To keep the peace, it's just easier to avoid controversial topics. We learn by discussing and debating, which has been all but shut down.
Yes, I agree. I think it’s an endemic, and I think it’s a massive problem. I am inspired to take this on. The caveat is that I’m not a super fast turn-it-around person. So I will get to drafting this right away. But I won’t have a final version by my next post. So, I hope that you, as my assigning editor of this piece, are willing to give me a bit of extra time ;).
Assuming you’re amenable, i will definitely tag you in it when I post. Thank you for submitting this topic. It’s baffling and I think deeply important. I appreciate you inspiring me to be brave and try and tackle it. Like you say, it has become easier to avoid so much.
Daria, what a great question. Just wrote a piece on that very thing. Elliot Ackerman in “Halcyon” takes it on. The piece includes a quote that speaks to the topic.
I bought the book. It sounds very interesting. I saw you're from Louisiana. I'm not from Louisiana, but I've lived here for almost 40 years and my husband is born and raised in New Orleans.
Yes! I've been writing about conversations as a spiritual practice. I've been thinking about how to have hard conversations, but I'm still working on getting deeper. Since I am a pastor, this is essential. People are afraid to talk about important things because they fear the blowback from angry people who can't have curious conversations.
Jody, tell me more. I am an Integrative physician and teach culinary medicine including how to grow food and medicinal herbs in your own garden. But not sure I am the right person to write what you want. I focus on the most common herbs you can use in medicinal remedies at home and the medicinal aspects of gardening itself. But not so much of a gardening primer if that makes sense. Have never written about it because it doesn't quite fit in my Substack. I hope someone writes about it if I'm not the right person!
I very much want to do what you do - make medicinal remedies at home. If it's not something you would write about, can you perhaps suggest a good primer for a beginner like me? Thank you x
Happy to write about it if there's interest! I can put it in my queue:) Or to add some pieces to something related that you are writing? Love what you are doing on here!
Thank you! Looks like quite a few of us would love to read it! I'm not planning to write anything on it myself just yet - maybe later in the year when I've actually planted something - Spring comes quite late in Ireland. Thank you for your support for my Substack topics too; as one loss warrior to another, I send you my love. Jody x
I could write from experience about planting and reaping about only 50 percent of my plants! I have never had all of them survive, so not sure I'm a total expert on the topic but I love planning gardens based on medicinal needs and local growing environments :)
I love this topic. I’m a longtime gardener and grow all kinds of herbs. I’ve also experimented a bit with home remedies, but not with much organization, or a whole lot of knowledge. I’d like to know more!
I always ask visitors to the Bond Between pet food shelf a question to break the ice. I’ve asked what their pet names are but never asked how they came up with the name. Great idea! I’ll let you know when I’ve written something!
My son and I went through quite the process when we named our 11-month old puppy. I've written a few posts about him in the past year but not about how we chose his name. Thanks for the suggestion. This is one post about Remy that seemed to resonate with readers: https://tracymansolillo.substack.com/p/remys-realm-2
Fantastic - thanks I will check out your post and if you write about how you chose his name I will tag you in my post too. This is just going to be so much fun! I am really so thrilled with everyone's interest and responses.
My new furbaby is a German Shepherd. I put his picture in the Coming soon post which I think is live? I will move it to the welcome page - I am still just getting the newsletter set up and my puppy is coming home this Sunday so excited as this all comes together.
This is perfect! As a complete newbie to the concept of chakras this is exactly what I was looking for. Thank you so much for answering my question Ashley.
This is very intriguing to me as I used to teach yoga and about the chakras. Are you thinking you'd like practices to connect with the chakras or awareness to how they are operating day to day?
Ashley I am very new to the concept of the chakras. So, yes to both practices and practical applications...whatever you want to write about. I write about Ignatian and Celtic Spirituality and I'm fascinated by the crossovers and nuances between traditions. I'm really excited to read your thoughts on the chakras.
TAKING TIME AWAY FROM ENTERTAINMENT/ MEDIA CLEANSE (giving up TV or social media for a set time and how that effected your life and/or your creativity/creative process)
I would love to read it! I can’t completely get away from socials because of my business but my husband and I are taking a break from TV at night and its already tough haha but I know it will have some benefits!
Hey Maria! I wrote something like that recently about leaving Instagram for the month of January. I am an artist and so far have depended on Instagram a lot for my business. I am still figuring out how to return to using in the best way (ie needing it for my job but wanting to cut out elements like doom scrolling, etc.) Here's the link in case you're interested! https://whatiswovenin.substack.com/p/a-month-without-instagram
I'm part of a group doing The Artist's Way program with @aliv, and next week is when we'll be doing exactly this. So you may see a few people tackling this subject soon, myself included.
I'm on day three of a social media (instagram, facebook, reddit) cleanse. I'd love to write this up when I'm at least 30 days in. Maybe my first post :)
Hi Kailey! I recently wrote about my month away from Instagram, specifically as a person who depends on it for my businesses and livelihood as an artist. I hope it resonates!
Thanks. In the first 15 months I watched a total of 5 films. This year I’m watching the occasional film and series with my husband. But the lure of the TV is pretty much gone for good. Good luck with your detox.
Ooh I love this! Can't wait to read and happy to take a try @Meredith Wilshere if you pass but also happy to read yours if you do!! I feel like my response has vastly changed to this since becoming an author myself. It changed how I look at my book addiction.
Jeff, tell me more. I think about this A LOT! And wote about pieces of it in my book with respect to the neuroscience and physiology of how music amplifies movement for your body and also since I practice psychedelic medicine, I think about this regularly as I choose music for patient journeys! Even if I didn't write about it, I would love to read it!
I write about the changes in my evangelical faith. It be come to realize that some of the “Lord’s moved me at church” commentary might have more to do with certain music, chord progressions and whatnot, than it does divine influence.
As a former Gospel singer, SHELL 🐚 YES! As a vocal coach, I've researched the neuroscience and vagal nerve effects of singing. Churches and sacred sites used sacred geometry to amplify the sound of - singing. I began a post on this, but it's not complete. Could be cross-post if interested.
Jeff, interesting topic. All I know is I read a piece about how an early hit song by Adele was considered close to perfect in capturing listeners’ emotions- the rhythms, falling and rising tonalities, etc.
Someone to write about THE EXPERIENCE OF TALKINGa TO YOUR DOCTOR ABOUT SOMETHING DIFFICULT DURKNG A DOCTORS APPOINTMENT. Would be great as a companion piece for an essay I’m writing about how to talk to your doctor/how doctors think.
Love this! Bess, tell me more. I can write about this from both perspectives. Being a primary care doctor myself and/or being on the other side as a mother to a dying child and navigating very difficult conversations with doctors and what that brings up, even being a physician already myself!
Heidi, that sounds wonderful and generous. I just looked at the amazing topics you have covered there. Do you want to message me or you can always email me tanmeet@tanmeetsethimd.com
Hi Bess, I've subscribed and very interested to read your piece. I am not a doctor, but my husband and I have had health issues where it's been very difficult to talk to the doctors so that is something I should put on my list to think about and write about someday. I have written a couple of pieces about my husband's health issues, but never thought to discuss how it was to discuss them with the doctors, so thank you for that idea.
I have experience in this but I also wanted to comment that one of my doctor's leads a support group and has taught us how to approach doctor's to get the most out of the visit. He's also shown us the doctor's side of things. I found it really eye opening and empowering to get that view and that he cares enough about his patients to educate them.
Ah he’s a root cause analysis kind of guy. That’s great. I’ve never had patients use it (tho I’m ER) how does he have y’all use it? Is it for your own thoughts or do you bring in a diagram to the appointment?
So for the diagram he has us use it when we feel out of control of our symptoms. Sorry I should've clarified that was separate from how to talk to doctors. For how to talk to doctors one of the biggest things I took was simply asking, "hey are any of these symptoms correlated to what you deal with in your field and if not is there a part that can help me figure out what's going on? Or someone you can recommend?" That's just one example but there's lots more
These are amazing! How this works:
-In all CAPS, write a non-newsy topic you’d like someone else to write about, e.g., THEORIES ON HEAVEN, THE NEGATIVE EFFECTS OF WATCHING PEOPLE FIGHT ON TV. It can be anything. This is for fun.
-Include your Substack URL and handle (@______).
-Find a topic in this thread you’d like to write about.
-Meet the person who wrote the topic and ask what they’d like to know.
-Write on that topic for your next post, mention the person if that feels right. (Use @______), and post it.
***I'm thinking I'll devote next week's Office Hours to sharing the results.
Even if you have an editorial calendar set, fit this one in. Substack is all about the network and pushing ourselves as writers. Imagine you just got a new assignment from your editor.
This is such a fun idea!
Great idea, Sarah! Thank you!
Oh, I do like an assignment from an editor!
Thanks again, Sarah, for a fantastic take on ways we can all make this space increasingly more vibrant, connected, and relevant.
What a great idea. I have an editorial calendar, but I'm in the planning stages for March/April and need some inspiration.
Excited to match with new Writers!!!
Muchas Gracias 🙏🏼❤️ Sarah!!! BTW also Curious to know if anyone has tried posting their newsletter in multiple languages yet?
No, but I was considering! I'm Lithuanian, but writing in English atm. <3
I would be curious to know that too!!
I write in English for language learners but include a glossary in Japanese for Japanese learners of English.
Thank you! I think I got a little confused about the prompt and thought it was to exchange guests posts. Either way, a useful thread :-D
Sarah, would love to see the results!
My internal dialogue before this drops every Friday 💭 “I wonder what she will come up with this week! Could it be X or Y?”
And then you come up with this—Brava, for keeping this thread so fresh!
What a generous opportunity for connection! Thank you!
Totally! Thank you for hosting!
THE BEST DAY/MEMORY IN YOUR LIFE WHERE NOTHING PARTICULARLY SPECIAL HAPPENED
https://williamkyd.substack.com/
This is literally my new podcast 😂
I have already written this a few years ago https://sixtyandme.com/6-ways-to-celebrate-the-simple-things-in-life/
I loved this post, what a lovely day it was, filled with connection, love, friendship, and a sense of wellbeing and contentment. Thank you for sharing this!
I love this and may take this one on :)
I love this, what a wonderful thing to reflect on, how the ordinary can be so wonderful. It reminds me of something I wrote a few years ago, inspired by A Day in the Life by The Beatles, about the magic of the ordinary, the things we don't pay much attention to. I think I might use this a a prompt for my own writing, and would love to read yours!
WHAT IS LIFE LIKE IN ADVERTISING WHEN YOU'RE PAST 40 AND YOU DON'T OWN THE COMPANY?
buhaycopywriter.substack.com
DO OTHER KINDS OF WRITERS THINK ADVERTISING COPYWRITERS ARE SELL-OUTS, EVEN IF WE WRITE ON OUR OWN TIME (E.G. POETRY, A SUBSTACK?)
buhaycopywriter.substack.com
Did you ever read this?
https://randeedawn.com/an-interview-with-dave-eggers-the-harvard-advocate-2000/
(Incidentally, I read it back when I was a copywriter)
Thanks for sharing this, Ryan! Will definitely check it out. :)
@marple POPULATION THEORY
What do you mean by 'Population Theory'? The modern demographic decline?
No I mean theories expounded by people such as Thomas Malthus which inform a lot of contemporary thought.
Against him, or for him?
Not promoting him but explaining the extent of his influence in the context of British history.
TO SELF-PUBLISH OR TRADITIONAL PUBLISH YOUR FIRST BOOK
My substack is https://reidcox.substack.com/
@reidcox
Hi Reid! I self-published my first book after successfully crowdfunding it on Kickstarter and have been documenting the process here on Substack. Happy to talk about what went into the decision to self-publish vs. traditional publish. Is there anything about the process you’d like to know more about in particular (i.e. querying, writing a book proposal, etc.)? https://open.substack.com/pub/shadesofgreaves/p/diary-entry-1-early-numbers?r=1xiwg1&utm_medium=ios&utm_campaign=post
Hey Carlos! That’s awesome you chose to self-publish! I’m mainly interested in what goes into the decision to self-publish over trying to go the more traditional route first but am also Interested in your game plan for launching and promoting
Okay cool! Long story short, I started to go the traditional route but my book was a tough sell and I didn’t want to change the vision just to make it more marketable. So I crowdfunded the project instead so I could hire my own editor, cover illustrator and designer. But I can definitely go into more detail (and talk about the pros and cons) in a future Substack post!
I'd read that too! (as long as it's funny...) ;)
I’m interested in this too!
I've done both and find both have benefits. With traditional you get amazing editors, a team to handle the logistics of printing and covers (what works / what doesn't) and potentially a lot more viewers. Non-traditional, you can make more per book so if you already have an audience financially this could be good. Trad publishing - Many expect for them to handle the marketing and most authors are disappointed. I already have a shop so I was used to launches and did a ton of work and this didn't bother me. If you are expecting them to bring you podcast interviews and opportunities, they will bring some but likely less than expected. For my last traditional published book, I found out THE DAY BEFORE that it would not be in stores and just sold online. Seeing in major bookstores was my big draw so this was like a dagger after 2 years of hard work. Trad publish you need to be ready to talk about a book for years. Self-publish, you can have a shorter timeframe. Also if it's super niche, self-publish is a better option in my opinion. Hope that helps! Just a lot of random facts but if you have specific questions let me know!
Wow Valerie this is super helpful! Thank you so much for sharing your experience. I’d be super bummed too if I found out the day before a launch that it wouldn’t be in stores.
Yes! They said my previous book sold so well online and covid complications, etc. I was all ready to go to the local B&N to check it out.
Great resource, Carlos. Next time around, I doubt I’ll bother with an agent. My options will be self-publishing or a very small press that takes unagented mss. I have a shot at selling 1000 copies of my current book in its first year but publishers will not be competing for my next.
This interests me too!
vs publishing it as a serial here on Substack?
Definitely want to read about this, as I’m currently hauling a first novel onto being!
Yesss! Same here! After two master classes I’m still not sure.
someone else had the same request for a topic and I'd like to read it too
I've had several books published tradionally, and done several myself. I prefer the latter
I'm both traditionally published and self-published - could totally wax on the topic. My 'stack is: https://annapulley.substack.com @annapulley
Hi Reid. I have self-published 5 books. I'd love to share why I chose that over traditional publishing.
How would you react if you discovered the truth that extra-terrestrials were indeed real? How would society react? What’s the worst and best case scenario you can imagine?
https://poetx.substack.com/
Lots of books written about that :) My favorite are those who treat the situation like, "The Aliens are doing things I don't like, but that doesn't mean they are just evil and yucky." Like, Pilgrim by Dickson, or the Jao series.
‘War of the Worlds’ by H G Wells is the classic book on this subject.
When I was a kid and we would play the "what would you do if" game, I was always confused when people would say they would be so excited to wake up one day and be able to talk to animals. I think I took the question too literally... and my answer was always about how terrifying and earth-shattering it would be to experience that kind of reality shift. I think the same is true for extra-terrestrials!
Might be hard to get a good story out of it, though, if the kid were so freaked out they couldn't continue with life.
I'm writing a time loop story and my character's first thought is, "I am not going to freak out and make everything super hard like every book I've read on the subject."
i like your opening for this story. time travel & time loop freak here!
Ah, so we could get into the various theories of time travel... how they affect the future... etc :)
Fun to collaborate sometime.
A SERIOUS HISTORY OF RUSSIA AND UKRAINE
@Von
After the Putin interview, I would love to read a good dive into the history of that whole conflict from someone who is objective and knowledgeable.
I might be able to contextualise that! And then write it.
@mathewehert is an excellent historian
Hi Von, Timothy Snyder at "Thinking About..." has written a lot about Ukraine and Russia, including a series titled "Making of Modern Ukraine." https://snyder.substack.com/
I believe he teaches at Yale, and is objective and knowledgeable.
The “On the Media” midweek podcast this week tackled this exact thing. So good. Also, the journalist Anne Applebaum always has great articles on this. It’s her specialty.
SELF PUBLISHING VS TRADITIONAL PUBLISHING & IS ONE OF THEM BETTER FOR YOUR BOOK?!
@kaylenalexandra.substack.com
I write an advice column 2x/month called Ask A People Pleaser- any relationships in your life that you need advice on? I’ll provide answers from the perspective of a recovering people pleaser, and I’ll provide tips based in emotional intelligence.
Did I do this right? 😅
You will never please all of them all of the time so maybe not to try!
Your article idea is helpful and might assist a friend.
I'd like to read this one too (about self publishing vs traditional).
I’d love to take a pop at this one. I’ve self published, but have others in progress that I would choose to follow the traditional route. I’ve done a lot of research and reading on this over the years. Is there anything in particular you wondered about or wanted answered?
Hi Tara! Thank you so much for chiming in!! I’m leaning towards the creative freedom of self-publishing, but truly terrified of all the steps to actually get it ~done~. I feel like the safety of traditional publishing (and publisher logo) would make my work feel more legitimate… can you speak to any of this? Thank you SO much for your wisdom!! 💌
I certainly can. I’ve made some notes already which cover this, so I’ll get writing and tag you next week 🙂
Is it too soon to say I Love You? Can’t wait to read!! Subscribing now.
🤣🤣🤣
I could definitely write about this! I talk about this all the time with my coaching clients. What would like you like to know? What are you leaning toward and what's holding you back?
Hi Heidi! I’m leaning towards self- publishing. I’m held back by the stone cold FEAR of all the millions of steps to get it done RIGHT. I also feel like people trust a traditionally published book more… so you feel that’s true?
It used to be true. I don't think it's quite so true now. It's still tricky to distribute, market, and sell a self-published book. Many bookstores won't shelve them. But if you already have an audience or you have a specific niche, it can work.
There's definitely a learning curve though! I personally don't want to figure out all the steps either! I'll tag you if I end up writing this post :)
🙏💌
Hi Heidi. I have self-published multiple books And there was definitely a learning curve with the first one. But it is definitely the preferred way for me in the kind of work I do and for what I want to use the books for. I want to know if you write the post as well!
Roger that! I don't know when I'll get to it, but I'll tag you when I do :)
I did not add my substack info correctly!
Here it is:
1. @K.Alexandra
2. Kaylenalexandra.substack.com
Clearly, technology & I go way back.
Thank you for any advice or insight you have here!
I would also appreciate a post on this topic. Thanks!
Hi K. I could write about this as well. I have self-published multiple books and would love to share why I chose this route.
I have finally finished it! Hope it helps. https://open.substack.com/pub/allthingsstory/p/traditional-versus-self-publishing?r=1b7zq7&utm_campaign=post&utm_medium=web&showWelcomeOnShare=true
WHERE AND HOW TO PITCH (FUNNY) PERSONAL ESSAYS
shadesofgreaves.substack.com
I’d like to read that as my writing has been described as ‘funny’! Amusing - not peculiar, just to explain.
I'd like to read this one too! I'm not the person to write it though lol. I will watch this space to see who does!
same! But Id love to read it.
Love this!
Hi - I have some resources on this, but I'm not sure you aren't already aware of what's out there... Is there a particular angle you're looking for?
I’m specifically wondering what literary magazines and websites are friendly to personal essays that infuse humor (David Sedaris, Samantha Irby, etc.) It’s hard to figure out the voices of each pub and what they’re looking for when there are so many out there
Did you check out these from @humorme, https://julievick.substack.com/
https://writingcooperative.com/20-markets-that-publish-humor-writing-f9e572d27451
https://writingcooperative.com/18-more-humor-writing-markets-to-submit-to-fa01c8e7a14c
Great one, Carlos. I write a lot of humor and the market is just as fragmented as other types of writing. Most of the best humor sites (The Onion) are staffed and don't accept free-lance submissions.
That’s been my frustration. The only niche that’s a little more straightforward seems to be short-form humor like what you’d find in Daily Shouts or McSweeney’s or Points in Case, which have open submissions but don’t accept personal essays
Just posted this Note, BTW.
https://substack.com/@frankhoush/note/c-49692210?utm_source=notes-share-action&r=c8c1n
Ooo good one for you! Loved this one https://shadesofgreaves.substack.com/p/how-i-grew-my-substack-from-439-to
Great idea!
I’d love to see that too
@julievick writes about this all the time! She's great.
Thanks, Heidi! Delayed response because I just saw this. I put together this post a while back:
https://julievick.substack.com/p/tips-on-writing-and-publishing-funny
But it sound like what Carlos is looking for is a little different. I remember someone putting together a list of lit mags that accept humor but it looks like that Medium post has since been deleted, but this old Twitter thread that may have some leads:
https://twitter.com/fivesouthlit/status/1464245248754741252
Really want to read! Help us be more funny, Carlos!
THE POWER OF BOREDOM or IN DEFENSE OF GETTING BORED QUICKLY
https://demarcation.substack.com/
@dizzyzaba
I like this one! I think I’ll go for it next post! Thank you Dizzy!
Hi Dizzy! I loved reading your first post (the Neopets journey hit hard!) and would love to take a crack at this as it’s something that’s been on my mind a lot lately. Please let me know if there’s anything in particular you’d like me to touch on / anything in particular you’d like to know about this thread :)
I know there’s more than one answer here, but I’d be happy to take a pass at it. I’m currently recovering from a herniated disc and can do very little so I have experienced a lot of space for boredom.
I LOVE this idea!
Mmmm, this is a good topic. I host a virtual Resiliency Circle as part of my paid Substack benefits, and some stuff about boredom + the page + creativity came up (quite spontaneously) last night. I wanna write about this, but I also wanna hear more from you!
I'm looking for articles and accounts to follow that address ADHD IN ADULT WOMEN.
https://jennyedenberkmsed.substack.com/
I'd love to read it too
I see an increasing amount of adults, men and women in my practice with a varying degree of ADHD experience and can write about how this affects life and relationships. What aspect are you interested in reading about Jenny?
And Tanya?
I'd love to read relatable stories about other people's experiences. How come you can get to the age of 40, get your PhD, start your own freelance business, supposedly 'achieve' stuff but still feel lost when it comes to getting everything organized on school mornings and before kid bedtime.
Also about things / strategies that help, beyond meds.
Many elements of the topic interest me. But right now I'm particularly interested in the intersection between ADHD and OCD and/or Highly Sensitive People. And, ADHD in perimenopause and menopause. Thank you!
The first post of my new Substack was about this (I’m 41 and was recently diagnosed) and I do plan to write more on the topic: https://lianahornyak.substack.com/p/new-year-new-brain
Emily Farris has a Substack (and new book of essays) out about this: https://thatemilyfarris.substack.com/
thank you!
@Mika just got a diagnosis and is planning to focus on this
This is one of the things I write about! Next week I'm writing about ADHD and sleep disorders in adult women!
What would you like to know about specifically? Next week I was planning on writing about ADHD and sleep as part of my I Am Chaos series.
Jenny find Sarah Conway, Mika and there are lots of other women with late diagnosed ADHD on Substack, I’ll try and remember their names too! 💛
You might like Susan Earlam's recent post about this: https://susanearlam.substack.com/p/will-it-work-for-me-the-adhd-experiment
I write a newsletter about ADHD! I focus a lot on research as well as strategies and reflections on executive functioning more broadly. I can definitely work on some posts based on these topics!
https://adhdunpacked.substack.com
Rebecca Makkai is writing about this: https://open.substack.com/pub/rebeccamakkai/p/adhd-wins-and-fails?r=ty0v&utm_campaign=post&utm_medium=web
BEST SOCIAL MEDIA PRACTICES/RULES/BOUNDARIES FOR PARENTS OF TEENAGE KIDS.
our 14 year old twins have iphones, but don't have safari, snap, instagram, etc and they are begging for them and feeling "left out"
https://onmoneyandmeaning.substack.com/
@JAMESBAILEY1
I could write a very short article on that :)
Really good. Did you see this today? New York City is suing Meta, Tik Tok, and X for their part in the youth mental health crisis.
https://www.google.com/url?rct=j&sa=t&url=https://www.nyc.gov/office-of-the-mayor/news/125-24/mayor-adams-lawsuit-against-social-media-companies-fueling-nationwide-youth-mental-health&ct=ga&cd=CAEYACoUMTczMDE0ODMyNjQxNDY2Nzc3MDUyHDUyM2VkZmRhZjIwNTE5MjQ6Y29tOmVuOlVTOlI&usg=AOvVaw2F25AVdkY8vvKBGDFUZF6t
Is it going to sue the parents too? 😂
I’m delighted they’re suing. I hope it has an impact.
This is a national issue, I'd rather see congressional hearings continue and try to come up with regulatory action. It's becoming more urgent by the day.
This is ridiculous, are they going to sue Dunkin Donuts for making everyone fat too?
Parents should take responsibility!
My post:
https://open.substack.com/pub/katedarracott/p/internet-safety-for-kids-that-works?r=1nkhs2&utm_campaign=post&utm_medium=web&showWelcomeOnShare=true
This subject is really resonating with me, as it really makes me angry when parents 'protect' their children from life rather than 'prepare' them for it.
Hmmmm, am quite tempted with this one. 🤓
Kate - the protect vs. prepare is a wonderful distinction. Thank you.
Wow, I may well have to write this piece anyway, even though I'm not a 'parenting' writer, I am a parent, albeit an empty nester.
This subject is a close one, so perhaps I can share what I have found to be highly effective in this regard.
My son signed himself up for a Facebook account at aged 8. I was not happy, but I did manage to deal with it in a way that led to him deciding to leave it alone for a few years, whilst equipping him with some vital tools to use when he embarked on the next social media experiment.
How old are your kids?
Social media training should take place way before their teens, catch them earlier, when they're still listening to you. 😉
they're 13 and will be 14 in May. They're still very close to us, fortunately, and oddly so. But my wife is of the mind that we should "protect" them by closing off all the bad stuff out there - at least as best we can. I come more from the "prepare" philosophy. Which is probably another essay - about how to resolve that difference :)
That is tricky if you and your wife don't align. The kids are going to do it anyway, with or without your consent, so what I would do (and what I did) is sit them down and go through ALL the privacy settings of the particular platform they want to use. You will both learn a lot and their account will then at least be protected from the 'friend of friend' defaults that are usually selected so that the company makes more money. The more people share, the more Facebook/Snapchat etc make. This 2 hour technical session was enough to bore my son stupid at 8, and he went off the whole idea for a while, but your kids are nearly adults anyway, so you just need to make sure they know how to protect themselves and their data from strangers.
PS: I'm 1,000 words into the post already, so full details will be available tomorrow, I would think! ;-)
Thank you! Super helpful. I'm grateful for you.
Have you read this one? My 13 year old is in the same boat - old iphone, no socials, kept begging for them - I read him this article and he finally understood where I was coming from https://www.afterbabel.com/p/algorithms-hijacked-my-generation?r=sfpr&utm_medium=ios&utm_campaign=post
Thank you. I will read!
I'm not sure there is a best answer to that. It depends on the relationship between parents and their kids. I tended to set lose boundaries, trusting their judgement, and for us it worked.
I’m interested in writing on this!
I salute you James!
Here it is, hopefully useful to some people:
https://open.substack.com/pub/katedarracott/p/internet-safety-for-kids-that-works?r=1nkhs2&utm_campaign=post&utm_medium=web&showWelcomeOnShare=true
CANDIDLY FEELING GRIEF, RESENTMENT, AND OTHER UNDESIRED EMOTIONS ABOUT YOUR PARENTHOOD
https://www.circular.cheniece.co/
@cheniece
Ooh, I like this! I'd love to read that article.
Thanks! I would as well... Hopefully we'll be pleasantly surprised by a volunteer!
Just shared it, https://open.substack.com/pub/matthewsloane/p/grieving-life-before-parenthood
Cheniece, do you mean about being a parent or about being the child of parents?
Sure. I mean about being a parent yourself.
Just shared it, https://open.substack.com/pub/matthewsloane/p/grieving-life-before-parenthood
I would love to read something like this. I have a special needs kid with complex health/mental health issues and the whole thing has hijacked the life I thought I'd live, so I definitely feel the grief and resentment at times. I do have an essay close to publishing that touches on this topic a bit more delicately - about the tension between Career and Kids and my mixed feelings, the highs and lows of trying to do both. But I don't plan to be QUITE as raw in the essay as I've been in my darkest moments.
My two special needs kids are on the autism spectrum and have clinical complexities. I totally understand your valid feelings and their source. I'd love to read this essay, whenever it is published!
i’d love to read this one!
Just shared it, https://open.substack.com/pub/matthewsloane/p/grieving-life-before-parenthood
Just shared it, https://open.substack.com/pub/matthewsloane/p/grieving-life-before-parenthood
I love this topic. I wrote a whole book on it. If I were to go back to that time period when my kids were little and I was feeling so many things, I would have so much more fun feeling "the undesirables."
Wow, a whole book?
Yes--it was called Recipes for a Beautiful Life. That wasn't specifically the topic, but I felt all those things on the page throughout the book. It was about raising two boys under the age of five while trying to write a novel and live a creative life. I also experienced a lot of beauty, but those feelings were all part of it. In my mind, that's the difference between happiness and joy--happiness is one feeling, joy contains everything.
i want to red your book!
Thank you so much Claire! You can! It's called, Recipes for a Beautiful Life. You can see a bigger description of it in the comment below. Thanks for your interest!
Hi Rebecca, just shared my response to this, https://open.substack.com/pub/matthewsloane/p/grieving-life-before-parenthood -- curious what overlap you see in your book and what I wrote!
Hi, Matthew! Just read it, thanks for letting me know. I loved your piece. There is a lot of overlap between this and Recipes for a Beautiful Life (the book I wrote). I remember one day when I was talking to my mother about how much I missed the woman was before I had children--and like you said in your piece--it wasn't that I didn't love my children or would have made different choices, but I missed the woman I was before children--who could walk out of her apartment in NYC, go to lunch with people she knew, and get a freelance job. I love that life, and I missed it. I liked being able to grieve what I'd lost and also enjoy what was coming in at the same time. I tend to feel like we're all all things at once anyway, so I feel like that version of me is still in there. But she WAS pretty dormant for a long time, and grieving that was essential to help the person I had been expand into what I am. I loved what you wrote and LOVE your illustrations. You've inspired me to do a post on this, too. Thanks for tagging me!
Thank you, Rebecca -- I appreciate how common an experience this can be. And that it is part of a longer journey.
I love this suggestion and it mirrors whispers I had percolating about my next newsletter. Just wanted to name gratitude for the idea and will report back and tag you if I run with it 💖
Please do! I'll cross my fingers!
Kaitlyn, what became of your percolation? I ended up making a post about this topic of grief as a parent re: parenting -- just shared it today, https://open.substack.com/pub/matthewsloane/p/grieving-life-before-parenthood
Hi Matthew! I'll be jumping into yours later today. So glad you checked back in. Here is mine:
https://kaitlyntopolewski.substack.com/p/the-undesirables
nice -- just saved your post for later too ; )
I wrote something along these lines last june for father's day. A bit of regret and resolution. Thought peace. https://open.substack.com/pub/iamtsebastian/p/im-sorry-i-wasnt-a-better-dad?utm_source=share&utm_medium=android&r=36ewx
Excellent! I'm going to check it out!
I left a comment too!
Hi T -- just posted in response to this thread about parents grieving what they lost from before parenthood and wanted to share with you https://open.substack.com/pub/matthewsloane/p/grieving-life-before-parenthood
I'm intrigued, Cheniece. When you say "Candidly feeling" do you mean being able to feel for yourself or being able to express or both?
I mean it to be in the sense of feeling it for yourself. But I could appreciate both contexts in a piece of writing, for sure!
I might take you up on this and want to know a bit more to build an appropriate bridge. I have questions but am happy to do this by email if you prefer, for privacy-sake (matt@matthewsloane.com)
1) what have you tried so far that isn't working for you?
2) what do you believe is getting in the way of feeling or expressing?
PS: I suspect I can relate and also share something useful.
Be looking out for an email from me soon! From cheniece@cheniece.com
I’m also sending you an email as well to confirm a few things 💖
Feel free!
Email sent!
Hi, Cheniece. I've been working through writing my childhood and turning back to face and feel it all. It's led to some great connections between what I received and what I passed on as a parent, and gratefully, what I interrupted and didn't pass on. Key to me is the courage to look at it all - especially those painful emotions you describe. My stack focuses on healing, spirituality, recovery and creativity.
Mine focuses on thriving even with these types of emotions and other parenting hurdles. I'm certain that your introspection and wisdom make your publication amazing to read. I'll check it out!
Very kind, I'll check yours as well!
So happy to have found your newsletter. I also live in Colorado and just did my Level 1 IFS training this week!
Hi Mary, just posted in response to this thread about parents grieving what they lost from before parenthood and wanted to share with you https://open.substack.com/pub/matthewsloane/p/grieving-life-before-parenthood
I see overlap in your way of thinking -- "to look back" with courage. Thought you might appreciate it.
You asked a good question. If it’s of any help I am in the process of writing healing poems this month. Five women requested poems to heal them from different things… I see that others to relate and find solace in the poems. Three published and two more on the way. Would poetry offer help?
I'm sure it would have wonderful effects!
I just posted in response to this thread about parents grieving what they lost from before parenthood and wanted to share with you https://open.substack.com/pub/matthewsloane/p/grieving-life-before-parenthood
Would love to see any poems you have created that touch on this topic. Can you share here?
THE NEUROSCIENCE OF LEARNING AND MEMORY AND HOW / WHETHER OUR EMOTIONS HELP US LEARN
https://tanyamozias.substack.com/
@tanyamozias
Hi Tanya, I’ve already written about this so will let someone else take up the new challenge but wanted to link you to my post : https://open.substack.com/pub/bessstillman/p/remembering-things-that-havent-happened?r=16l8ek&utm_campaign=post&utm_medium=web
Hi Tanya, I speak about this often from the perspective of how anxiety impacts student learning in school, especially for neurodivergent students. Thanks for sharing this topic because now I’m inspired to write about it more! https://learnwithdremily.substack.com
Thanks for sharing, Emily. I guess I meant more how we have to be emotionally engaged in the material we're learning for us to learn it better, and how when we're pushing on students (children and adults) learning materials that are boring / irrelevant to their lives, we're really not helping them learn. How when I am emotionally engaged (in the material or the topic, or maybe even with the teacher because of their charismatic personality), is there like an area in my brain that lights up and helps me learn? or something like that. But I think it ties in with what you're saying, that it's hard for students to be engaged in the learning process when they're anxious. I'd love to read whatever you write about any of these.
Yes! All totally connected. We learn the most about this topic from autistic students who struggle to learn when something doesn’t feel relevant to them. We all feel this to some extent but engagement increases when we are interested in the topic or when we feel attuned to the teacher (this is rooted in secure attachment). There is a somatic alignment that happens in regards to student-teacher nervous system co-regulation that supports more effective learning. I would call this bottom-up learning and our education system is very top-down as in “here is the curriculum and you will learn it no matter what your emotional state is at this moment.” We can’t learn unless we feel emotional register, safe, and connected.
Very interesting. And what about when we feel attached to the subject matter / when the material feels relevant to us? Is it also rooted in attachment or something else? I know what you mean about re autistic kids being able to learn only if its relevant to them. I am a mother to two kids on the spectrum (although I don't talk publicly about their diagnoses) and I've seen that first hand. Please write about all of these!
I’m also raising an autistic son but don’t talk about it much publicly because that’s his story to tell. So I get that! In my work with autistic kids and teens, they’ve been able to describe to me that their love of their special interests/enthusiasms is also rooted in attachment. They don’t use this word but I’ve seen kids be as enthusiastic about objects as someone would be about their best friend. We have research showing that young autistic children are more interested in objects than people so I see this as an early attachment to interests that isn’t right/wrong just different. I’m super passionate about helping educators understand this to increase more authentic and engaging learning outcomes for all kids, not just those who for the mold.
Fascinating. And so important.
HUBERMAN PODCASTS CONDENSED
I would love if someone could give 3-5 actionable takeaways from each episode. I don’t want to listen to the episodes and he doesn’t offer a podcast transcript to scan.
HTTP://caitlinfaas.Substack.com
@caitlinfaas
so true. My issue with podcasts is that you can't "skim" them. You can speed them up but I often skim them first, to determine if I want to invest the time to go deep.
Agreed!
Omg YES. I can’t get through an entire episode which is so disappointing because I’m usually excited to learn something.
Ohh I’ve thought about doing this and did it for one podcast in the past!
I’ll take it on! 🤪
https://www.musixmatch.com/landing/en/transcription there are podcast transcriptions on this website. And the two times I have requested one it showed up in my inbox in under 24 hours. No charge.
Thanks for sharing this Jessica.
I followed you! Definitely interested in the tl;dr for. Huberman.
Thanks Julie!
Caitlin with the challenge of all challenges. This is genius.
I intend to write about INCREASING YOUR ABILITY TO FOCUS AND WHY ITS SUCH A CRITICAL SKILL > Huberman has a good episode on this , so will condense and give some actionable points . https://moordays.substack.com
Yes I'd read this!... Not sure about writing though- that would require me to focus 😳
True 🤔
This is a vital skill Susan so it's a great topic to take on.
Caitlyn. There is a medium author who does this who I follow. You might need a premium medium subscription to see it but I'll post it just in case: https://betterhumans.pub/15-learnings-from-a-conversation-between-a-neuroscientist-navy-seal-officer-9c61e4aa4897
Amazing, Jenny! Happy to pay to have this information (well, can we convert her to Substack soon too? :) ).
There is a program called glasp. It's a browser extension that gives you a transcript and a summary of youtube videos. There is another program for your phone called Snipd that does the same thing with podcasts.
Downloading, thank you!
Snipd has exactly what I’m looking for with the Huberman podcast! 🎉🎉🎉
Yep I use it all the time. It's also great for research.
Thanks for sharing, T!
Brilliant! Thanks for sharing - I have a 1 hour video I'll test these on! Appreciate the share
Hi Caitlin, You might check out this site: https://podcastnotes.org/huberman-lab/episode-86-what-alcohol-does-to-your-body-brain-health-huberman-lab/
Yes! Amazing, thank you!
Huberman launched a couple of weeks ago this https://ai.hubermanlab.com/
Might be useful for you.
Wow, another amazing resource! 🎉
Huberman offers podcast transcripts on the Hubermanlab website but you require a paid membership for it.
Funny I never bumped into that upsell! 🎉
I just went and checked and it's not there anymore. There was a transcript tab beside the timestamp one. I see Anthony's comment about the AI so perhaps they've switched up the delivery. Sorry to lead you astray Caitlin.
Caitlin, if you use the Chrome browser, you can add an extension to it that will summarize any YouTube video. There are many such extensions, you can google for it and see which one you like. I used "YouTube Summary with ChatGPT & Claude".
Thanks, Adrian!
This would make a great podcast. HUBERMAN IN BRIEF or something and try to get his buy-in or collab or endorsement.
Hey Caitlin! I'm not sure if you've ever looked at Huberman's youtube page, but on there, the podcasts are timestamped pretty thoroughly with descriptions of what he's talking about. It's broken down by topic (in 5ish minute chunks) and also indicates if the particular chunk is a tool/something actionable.
Thanks, Faye! I have seen that, but still didn’t want to listen to even 5 minutes of it. 😇
PLACES TO GO TO ESCAPE THE SUMMER HEAT
This is of course critical to those of us who live in Texas, especially after last year’s heat and drought. Lol!
I could also use it as a writing retreat. Never want to see a writer panting over a keyboard!
https://trialsbywriting.substack.com/
@Geoff_Mantooth
Hi Geoff, I live in Flagstaff, Arizona at 7,000 feet elevation. We are a tourist destination for people escaping the heat of Phoenix during the summer. Am I too far from Texas to be helpful to you?
You know, that might just be the ticket. We stayed in Flagstaff once and was taken in by its alpine environment. I’d forgotten. Thanks.
Great! I will write about Flagstaff for my next post next Friday! I will include pictures, places to tour here, restaurant recommendations, what I love about Flagstaff... anything else in particular you'd like to hear about?
Perfect. I’m a subscriber. And thanks.
Thank you, this will be fun! And I've subscribed to you and look forward to reading!
Hello again Geoff, I just wanted to let you know my Flagstaff story may be delayed a week or two. I'm so sorry, we've got to go help my parents unexpectedly and I may have to use an already written piece this coming Friday. But I won't forget. Hope I don't get it out there too late to be useful to you.
Don’t worry about me, take care of your family. I can wait. Good luck.
Thank you for understanding!
Cherie! I thought of Flagstaff, too. I live and travel in a van. And the Coconino Forest outside Flagstaff has been my go-to escape from the heat on multiple occasions. As a side note, my favorite gas station / gas station shower of all time is in Flagstaff. ;)
Will for sure read your Flagstaff post. I'll no doubt be back.
Wonderful! Hey, next time you're heading this way, let me know. It would be so much fun if we could arrange to meet up IRL.
Yes! That would be fantastic.
OK, it's not places to escape the heat, but my first Substack newsletter was on three ways to help you stay cool in the heat and the second was a look at why humidity makes it harder to breathe. I launched in the summer :)
I write The Sunday Stretch: https://thesundaystretch.substack.com/
Is New England too far? I’ve got lots of NE travel posts. cape cod, Massachusetts? Working on a guide by town :)
NE is not too far. I’m a follower, thanks. Hope spring comes on time for you all.
A MULTI-DAY HIKE IN THE ALPS
From anyone who cares to write about it
Ingrid, I’d like to take such a hike and then write about it. Someday. You’re probably hoping for a more immediate time frame. But it sounds like a nice trip.
A dream of mine too, Geoff. It would be nice to live vicariously through someone on Substack 😀
Did this with my 8 year old in Slovenia (julian alps) last summer, we stayed in the hiking huts as well. It doesn't fit with my substack theme but I might be able to make it work (PS recommend Slovenia as an amazing hiking destination)
Oh please do!
If you want to talk Switzerland and hiking there, I'm always up for it!
I am planning on writing in the next week or two about my recent rock climbing trip in Australia!
Hi Ingrid, my post has just gone live on my recent Australian rock climbing adventures! You can find it here.
https://open.substack.com/pub/laurahodgson/p/january-climbing-adventures?r=qrzpn&utm_medium=ios
REAL GRIFTERS GETTING THEIR COMEUPPANCE @jemoyer Isn’t it satisfying to learn that someone who has set out to do harm was met with fierce justice? I’d love to hear those stories, perhaps a list of the top ten, & what they did to earn their karma.
Goodness, I so WANT to read this! Can we have a special section for 'narcissists we have survived (barely)'?
If this was a Substack I’d subscribe in a heartbeat.
I'd read that, sounds different! <3
NAME ONE THING ABOUT GOD YOU DON'T BELIEVE ANYMORE AND WHAT YOU BELIEVE INSTEAD.
http://toddweir.substack.com
@toddweir
This wording is fascinating; I might just take you up on the offer!
That God is only found in churches by Catholics. Everyone is divine ♥️
You spelled "Protestants" wrong. LOL!
Oh, this is intriguing, Todd. I might join Peter and take you up on it. Are you looking for personal stories?
I love to hear personal stories about how peoples' beliefs evolve over time.
Awesome! Taking this on. I love an assignment. I’ll need to ask you, as my assigning editor, for a bit more time. I’m rarely a turn-it-around-in-a-week writer if I can help it. At least I haven’t been since my days as a journalist. ;)
Enjoy the thought process. Since posing the question I have thought of several things.
Excellent Holly, I look forward to this!
Someone who was raised as a Catholic, to dropping religion in drama school, to evolving over years into my own understanding of it - I am not yet to bravely talk about it just yet - but I am so looking forward to reading your take on it, Holly!
I would like to hear others takes on this as well. I have my own, which I may write about at some point. Thanks for asking Todd, and thanks for writing Holly!
Thanks you! I just did a first draft on this topic this morning. And I really enjoyed doing it. So, I'll probably drop it sometime in March. Thanks for the encouragement, Emily, and the inspiration, Todd.
Thanks for the update Holly. I'll look out for it.
I'm your huckleberry. Just one?
https://www.theunfilteredscribe.com/
One change usually causes a chain reaction, right?
Challenge accepted! Love this one, but will have to think on it.... Thanks for the idea!
I never believed in God, although I’m a fan of devotional poetry. My next post, based on a poem by Anne Sexton, is about the use of poetry and art to spark belief in joy and community during a fearful time. I’d love to read other perspectives on kindling and sustaining belief without religion.
https://ronamaynard.substack.com/
This sounds brilliant, looking forward to reading!
I love this Rona. Will read. I grew up with God with a capital G and am now much less naming and a lot more wondering. Thanks!
Looking forward to reading this, Rona.
Did someone get you the answer you sought while away from your books, btw?
Yes, two people, within half an hour. I don’t know anything about them except the most important thing:They’re Anne Sexton fans.
This place is great!
Can relate this as well since I've been using poetry for years light a spark within myself so i'm looking forward to reading this Rona!
My friend Maj-Britt Johnson is sharing her spiritual memoir about changing views of God in her substack: https://majbrittjohnson.substack.com/
Good question, Todd, may I use it in one of my next pieces? I am thinking about creating a more intimate discourse on my Substack like The existential Cafe or something where I would lead into readers questions from an existential (spiritual integrated) point of view. I think this would make for a great conversation!
I love that Almut.
Yes, I'd love to see what you come up with. We could both answer the question and cross-post. Looking forward to reading where you go with it.
Fantastic idea Almut. I hope that the Existential Cafe opens its doors soon :)
This is a really good one.
Oooh, I may take you up on this, Todd!
I have some family that became recent readers, and I have to see if I'm ready to be witnessed talking about this lol! That's a whole 'nother practice! Being okay in your body being seen as yourself.
Yes! Cierra. I hear you!
One thing? Wow. What about a recounting of my spiritual journey from Christianity (Episcopal) through Atheism and Hinduism and Buddhism and Paganism and Mythology and finally (so far) Pantheism?
That would be a great story! My journey goes from Evangelical Baptist to progressive Congregationalist, to Buddhist, then the Buddha led me to Jesus, to the more contemplative and Celtic forms of Christianity, sometimes called Panentheism.
Wonderful. I've learned a new way of considering God! I didn't know about Panentheism.
Great question Todd. I'm late to the party but recognize some friends here so I'm curious as to what comes of it. I'm sure others like myself incorporate this question into our substacks so what blooms from this seed will be terrific.
Great, tag me when you write, I look forward to reading.
UNINTENDED CONSEQUENCES
I publish "The Art of Unintended Consequences" on Substack and am looking for interesting takes on either YOUR life-changing unintended consequences or tales you know about. I like to start with a real event then have a bit of slightly fictionalized fun with it.
https://davidnemzoff.substack.com/
Life changing? Can they just be funny and fun?
ABSOLUTELY! The more FUN or outrageous the better. And THANKS for reminding me. I have updated my original post to reflect that.
Most of my stories START with a factual element or event, then devolve into a bit of fictionalized tall tales. Good examples would be https://davidnemzoff.substack.com/p/courageous-cockeyed-rum-theory or https://davidnemzoff.substack.com/p/scrababble.
Well, we have a funny family story we like to tell... with unintended consequences. It all began with a youth group leader organizing a party, and ends with my mother yelling 'Get the gun' out of the window :)
I want to read this one for sure!
Hi Charlotte. I hope you can. I'm trying to convince Von to share it with me, then you can read it on my Substack. In the meantime, you might have a little fun reading https://davidnemzoff.substack.com/p/scrababble. Free subscription of course.
I did have some fun reading that post. Might have to add Scrababble to our game rotation.
Sounds like fun. You should definitely read my "Scrababble" Family Game Night story - it involves a fair bit of gun play and knives. If you are interested in sharing your story, I can either write it from your notes (giving you credit of course) or you could guest write it (subject to editing or approval). Interested?
Sure, sounds fun. I'll write it and then... hmmm... the lack of DM on this platform. I guess I'll make one of my special DM threads and tag you.
Sounds good. Looking forward to reading it. Reminder so we remain friends 😁 that as a guest writer, the story is subject to review, editing, potential rewrites on my side to ensure it fits in with tone and theme of my Substack, and potentially not publishing it.
I'm sure it will be wonderful, but I would like to keep this a long-term relationship. Oh, and I recommend you read the two stories I linked above to get a feel for the Substack - although I do NOT want you to be a clone of me. Use your own voice. 😉
I've got plenty of those in my life...always grew from them...but are you looking for writing to share directly?
I'm not sure if "plenty of those" is a good thing or not for you. 🤣 Primarily I am looking for seeds of truth that I can expand on in a fictionalized non-fiction tale I write myself (with credit given for the underlying tale of course).
However, I am always open to guest writers with big tales to tell. Note that they should always start with a truthful event, action, or trigger, but can devolve into something much more interesting. I provided a couple of links in the thread below (Scrababble and Courageous-Cockeyed...) if you'd like an idea.
thanks, David. I am also not sure if plenty of those is a good thing, the jury is out :-). But it makes for a life of transformation. I'll take a look at your links.
My memoir could be read as a series of cascading unintended consequences. It begins with a man losing a quarter down an elevator shaft During the Great Depression and ends with me. https://open.substack.com/pub/johnmoyermedlpcncc/p/my-mothers-ghosts?r=3p5dh&utm_campaign=post&utm_medium=web
Loved Episode 1. I would be interested in Reposting that once I figure out the right introduction narrative. Would you be interested? (With appropriate crediting and linking of course).
Sure. Thanks for reading!
This sounds really fun!
Hi Jo! Thanks, I have a lot of fun writing these. I start with a kernel of truth, then turn my imagination loose with them. You might like this one... https://davidnemzoff.substack.com/p/courageous-cockeyed-rum-theory
What a great topic David! I am interested in this so look forward to checking out your publication. I write about learning to hear our inner whisper and having the courage to listen to it. Currently I'm writing about our natural resistance that comes with that. There are certainly many unintended (wonderful) consequences of following the path of our deepest voice but it's a learned skill.
https://donnamcarthur.substack.com/
THE IMPORTANCE OF AUTHENTIC DIALOGUE
https://miriamcruz.substack.com
I am in fact writing something on that! I would love to get your perspective.
I think this essay fits that category, Miriam! https://danaleighlyons.substack.com/p/when-we-were-monsters-money-in-marriage
This is a great essay, highly recommend!
Thank you, Donna!
Dana, I just read this and it absolutely does. Thank you for sharing. I appreciate the vulnerability and honesty and left a comment to hopefully help support your work. I’m grateful for you!
Thank you so much, Miriam!
Yes! I'm currently writing a series of posts on Conversations as a Spiritual Practice.
Todd! This is awesome. I am heading directly over to hit subscribe.
Same!
I’ve been appreciating these Todd! So important.
WOW this sounds right up my alley. I will check these out. Thank you thank you!!
Hi Miriam, I just had a fantastic interview with Alexa of Wild, Cozy and Free about this exact thing. It will be coming out in a few weeks. You can keep an eye out for it here
https://donnamcarthur.substack.com/ or check out her other interviews
https://wildcozyfree.substack.com/
Thanks for the heads up Donna.
I’d like to write about this, I’m a therapist using dialogue in therapy
https://lettersfromtherapy.substack.com
I am a spiritual companion and listen for a living so to speak :-) I love this topic.
Editing to add that I have a post going up tonight on the importance of listening and being heard.
Here's the link:
https://econway.substack.com/p/a-pantoum-and-a-phone-booth
HOW TO PICK A CAREER - I often joke that I don't know what I want to be when I grow up so I am always mystified by people who start in a career and just go with it. I often feel lost on where to go sometimes.
https://www.readonhand.com/ @briannaplaza
Hey Brianna! I planned on writing about this at some point. My Substack is about solopreneurship, but I also talk about career and basically choosing your own path professionally. I touch on vocational astrology as well, which can help massively when you're lost like you mentioned. Wanna discuss more so I can write something that you'd be interested in reading?? 🧡
I'm going to be cheeky and jump in here because I'd like to discuss lol
I've often struggle with what I'd like to do, besides writing. I've even looked into astrology but have no idea on how to apply those traits to my outer world!
Yeah, I know what you mean. I plan to make content on vocational astrology as well to help with this struggle :)
Sure! I am a solopreneur too! you can shoot me an email at brianna.plaza@gmail.com
Cool, I'll write to you now :)
I was about to post something about wanting more articles about starting businesses, then stumbled on your comment! Just subscribed!! I write about personal finance mostly but am working on starting my own business (launching in a month!!)
Amazing! If there is any specific that you'd like me to cover on the article, let me know!
Ok, this is great! 😃 Shall we try talking on my chat? I think it's open to all (haven't used it yet though). Otherwise I can open an email thread and discuss there??
...I would also like help with this lol
Hi Brianna, the flipside of my Carer focus-website is that I'm a mentor with my own company. I've a lot of topics I'm covering with a focus on carers right now but I was going to share my thoughts on some key books that I use with my mentoring clients...here's a link to my affiliate bookshop. You may be interested in the Squiggly Career - Helen Tupper & Sarah Ellis have written some really good books. https://uk.bookshop.org/lists/self-development-leadership-and-work.
My personal opinion - having been on both sides of the interview table, headhunted a few times and having my own business - these days people are less interested in titles and more interested in experiences, skills, capabilities..breadth as well as depth. Everyone has many Squiggles these days ;-) I hope the books can offer new insights and ideas.
You might try out a career counselor who can guide you through a more individualized process. Psychologytoday.com is a great resource, and if you went to university, there's generally help for alums through their career centers for job preparation.
This piece is more job related, but it might be helpful because it has a battery of questions toward the end to ask yourself and work and work environements.
https://thepracticaltherapist.substack.com/p/022-finding-a-job-that-sucks-less
I love this topic as a serial career chaser myself. I could also write something about this through the lens of astrology. If there's anything specific you're looking for, let me know 😍 also open to you E.A. if there's anything specific you want to know!
I am always seeking guest posts on:
YOUR STORY OF OVERCOMING MIDLIFE TRAUMA
And/or
YOUR UNIQUE APPROACH TO TACKLING FEAR OF EMOTIONAL VULNERABILITY
https://shriekingcactus.substack.com/
https://substack.com/@joyv
I define "midlife trauma" as any trauma (acute or chronic) that occurred in your 20s/30s/40s/50s. I consider trauma to be anything that over-activated your nervous system and made you feel unsafe or scared. I particularly love stories that involve the healing power of nature.
Would love to hear from folks! (If you'd like to keep your response private for now, you can email me at joyvictorynyc at gmail dot com)
I'm a professional health editor so I would edit your piece, but I'd run all edits by you in advance. I wish I could offer payment, but not yet.
thanks!
Joy
Hi Joy, I'd be up for writing a piece on midlife trauma.
Great! If you do something on your substack about it, please let me know so I can share. If you'd like to write for my newsletter as a guest post, would you email me at joyvictorynyc at gmail?
(i hope i'm understanding sarah's prompt here...)
thank you!
Of course.
Hi Joy - for me, midlife was an unholy intersection of divorce, the grief of involuntary childlessness, a long period of unchosen singleness and undiagnosed peri-menopause. I barely survived it! If this sounds interesting, let's chat :)
My email is jody@gateway-women.com
For sure - I'll email you.
I have not heard the term mid-life trauma before Joy - but interested in this. I will think about how I could frame a story through this lens.
Sounds good! (To be transparent, it's a term I coined, to differentiate from childhood trauma.)
Ah got it - thank you for that clarification :)
https://beyondthebox.substack.com/
Joy, I can share on both of these topics.....thanks for the inspiration. I've overcome plenty of midlife traumas...which one would serve others to share, I'll chew on that. the other one, emotional vulnerability is a topic dear to my heart...this could be a juicy one. I'll message you when I decide.
I am very interested in this discussion. It is difficult to encapsulate my 50th decade (I will be 60 this year) in one comment; however, there have been several events during this decade that have significantly impacted my life. Perhaps we can chat through email: calofs4@comcast.net
https://substack.com/@charlenealofs?utm_source=profile-page
I write about this as I have a nervous system disorder called dysautonomia. I am doing a series on the five stages of grief and intertwine heading with nature in it. https://catieshine.substack.com/?fbclid=PAAaZeuRMcd5i3HRAnhd-vLIIV4MbLrRs2p-23_VV4lCu_eQ6kTpp2HdXPT3o_aem_AYzlIso-Z-Rgl0ZRtHUBESNwN-Hmm9MNH1dj6T0d2jhLeb6NLoqqCOo0Kl6kraDM_us
Interesting topic. I wrote a piece a long time ago about something that I considered my mid-life trauma that changed the course of my life in a very unexpected way. I never ended up publishing it anywhere but this might be the perfect fit! I'll email you :)
Oh gosh I wrote about this on my Substack last month, my personal story, it’s called ‘finding my grief in the breadmaker’ if you’re interested. 💛https://lettersfromtherapy.substack.com
Hi Joy, my whole substack is about that subject and how I continue to work through the traumas, some of which started at midlife and some from childhood. When I first started writing on Substack, I published an essay that deals with this subject. It's behind the paywall now, but I'd like to share the draft link with you: https://lilypond.substack.com/p/0b35535d-3cb0-4b12-808f-9ca1e40cb27d
Happy to continue this dialog and explore how I can contribute. Thank you!
Thank you for sharing! I love the concept of "heart knocks."
I deal with these griefs through poetry. Not sure if you are keen?
Hi Joy, This is a topic dear to me as I've tackled several 'mid-life traumas' including an unexpected illness that derailed my life in my 20s, a divorce in my 40s, and learning to advocate and help my only child when he was dismissed by the medical system. I touched on it last week: https://tracymansolillo.substack.com/p/say-yes-to-the-mess
Thank you for sharing! It's interesting to see it framed as a "mess." (I prefer "shi*storm!)
What's been the hardest thing for you to reconceptualize?
Shi*stomr works! 'Mess' wasn't my choice but I went with it. The hardest thing for me to reconceptualize was the idea that being vulnerable and authentic was a weakness. I was raised to be strong and my family did not talk about any struggle publicly. I couldn't move forward until I fully accepted the various situations/traumas and was willing to embrace them. Healing came when I began to write/talk about them. It was a big step but well worth it.
These are both great topics, Joy. I’m most drawn to the second one as I’ve spent a lifetime trying out various tactics to manage my inherently vulnerable and emotional self. Would love to chat with you about a possible piece around this. I’ve touched on it in a number of posts, but writing something g geared specifically toward this might be interesting.
https://econway.substack.com
Great to hear from you! I'm still learning what "embodied" means and am interested in learning more.
Yes, I feel like embodiment is surfacing with over and over for me lately. So I’m paying attention!
Joy, I’ve written about my experience getting diagnosed with breast cancer (after being laid off and deciding to create my own work as a consultant). I’m still working through this and almost every weekly letter I write touches on that journey. Here are two: https://open.substack.com/pub/usefulbeautiful/p/i-decided-this-is-the-title
https://usefulbeautiful.substack.com/p/its-happening-for-me-not-to-me
Ooh I love this, Joy, and I had to pop in and mention that the post I just posted this morning is indirectly about how I use trees to self-regulate inside chronic illness (and with a trauma history, discussed elsewhere in my work). This post overtook one I was planning to be directly about the trees, so the next post will probably be directly about the trees 😄
My substack is Symphonia - katiecowan.substack.com, in case you are interested.
Thanks for sharing!
YOUR MOST UPLIFTING MEMORY THAT'S STIMULATED BY A SONG
Short 800 words or less, with The Spotify link to the song. Everybody, I'd like your story!
I'll link your post to my site.
WHY: Dementia patients may forget words; they don't forget how something made them feel. Caregivers need uplifting stories.
EVERYONE needs to be lifted by meaningful moments. Can you share yours, please?
VICTORIA at CARER MENTOR: Empathy and Inspiration https://www.carermentor.com/
Hi Victoria. I'd be interested in taking up this call. A lot of what I've already written about is to do with this aspect of songs in our lives. The most focussed post so far (and the one most about me rather than about others) is 'Songs for Some People I May Have Been' (https://songstudies.substack.com/p/songs-for-some-people-i-may-have). That's a series I plan on continuing, though I'd also be intersted in doing something a bit more focussed along the lines you suggest. Best wishes, Richard
Thanks Richard. Please do. I'd like to make a compilation of short stories and playlist for my readers. Feel free to write however you wish. I hope others will take this up too. Feel free to go more in-depth too in an additional article too!
My hope is that we have several 'Uplifting experience-stories' Readers can read each one while the song plays alongside it. To remind ourselves about Good things, meaningful moments.
Great, I'll work on something and let you know when it's done.
This one might be for me, Victoria! I have so many. And I am a singer songwriter who has written and recorded two albums and dozens of other songs. And my dad has dementia. I have a dear friend, a well known writer, whose dad was a linguist. He disappeared into senility until she discovered they could converse through song. For a year they shared memories, joys and sorrows through song. https://camillebrightsmith.substack.com/
Hey Camille! Yes of course, please do. Any uplifting moment any song so readers feel lifted for a few moments. Thank you!
Hi Camille - I'm going to publish an article today BUT I wanted to ask, if you're still interested, could you write an article with music-memory for a second article? I'd be interested in your thoughts when you read the AARP part. I'm publishing the first one soon today. As a musician and our friend's experience this could be an intriguing read.
So crazy - I have a music memory draft I was gonna to reach out about today. Not sure if it’s exactly what you want but it is def music memory and my Poppa. His dementia is getting worse pretty fast so I’ve been struggling with writing time. But I started something.
Hey Camille - can you subscribe to Carer Mentor and then we can have our own discussion via email. Please don't put pressure on yourself. I'm keeping track of everyone who wants to contribute - there are another 10 writers who would like to write something. Sending hugs. I know how painful this time is.
What is your substack email? I can send it to you later if you like. Still getting the kids going right now.
Done
You've really gotten me thinking on this one Victoria. Songs trigger all kinds of memories for me. I'll give this some more thought and give it a go. I've written about the power of music on health and wellness (not here yet, but it's in the queue). Great idea!
Hi Daria - I'm publishing the first article today, but I'll be doing follow-ups. Have a read and let me know if you'd like to add to the initial article that focuses on the 'soundtrack of our lives, and special moments' or if there is a particular angle you'll write about inspired by this first article let me know and I'll link to it in a follow-up. Music and memories are potent connectors!
Victoria, my apologies for missing the deadline. I actually have an unfinished draft, which fits with the soundtrack of our lives and special moments. Two very unrelated things with two different songs by the same artist.
Hi Daria - please don't apologise; there was no deadline, really. I just wanted to get the first article out because there were already 14 pieces, incl. my anchor article. I'm already looking forward to doing some follow-up pieces so feel free to write 2 articles if that makes more sense. I'm going to keep the underlying theme of music and memory or music is more powerful than words, because I see it as a deep human connector - something we all need! SO, no rush, no pressure. I'll be delighted to link your work, whenever you can in whatever form. It's completely up to you.
Victoria, I've already done this, but almost twice as long as you've stipulated. Here it is if you'd like.
https://open.substack.com/pub/theunfilteredscribe596/p/my-favorite-song?r=kfke9&utm_campaign=post&utm_medium=web&showWelcomeOnShare=true
Beautiful. Rules shules ;-) thank you! You're number #1 on the list...and also because the Alan Sylvestri is the inspiration piece I use when I'm writing!
Movie themes for me too. So much Nostalgia! I listen to John Williams when I go to bed, and to the Harry Potter playlist when I'm writing (even though Potter is generally appreciated by the generation just after mine).
I recently made a playlist of all the songs that reminded me of different moments in my life. It is amazing how you are immediately back in that place or time when your hear music.
If you can pick the most uplifting moment - could you do a little article for me? It's amazing how music and someone else's story can create empathy & connectivity - just what caregivers need when isolated at home with a loved one.
I would love to Victoria - I will have to think about the most uplifting one!
Brill, thanks Catriona.
Victoria, I have written a number of pieces lately using music. Here are two of them. https://waywardyogini.substack.com/p/wedding-day-dreams
https://waywardyogini.substack.com/p/it-never-rains-when-you-want-it-to
Oh my gosh that rendition of La vie en rose was gorgeous. I've never heard of Daniela Andrade thanks I'll link to that one I think, Sue, but I'll make a note of the other one too. Brill!
Glad you enjoyed that rendition. It's so beautiful! Thanks!
As you know as a subscriber to my Substack Victoria (& thank you for that) I include a song every week that somehow captures ‘dementia’ for me, whether it’s the particular loss a caregiver feels, the way I imagine my mother may feel locked in her world, or songs that I know she loves. Yet I’ve never written about music & dementia, the way I always play her beloved Frank Sinatra when I’m in the car with her, hoping to elicit a smile or at least for her a feeling of contentment or safety.
I’d love to do this!
Please do, Kate! My reply got lost earlier - any uplifting memory with music is great. Thank you!
Hi Kate - I'm publishing the first article today, but I'll be doing follow-ups. if you're still up for writing an article let me know if you'd like to write something for a follow up piece. In today's article there's a piece by the AARP, there are many pieces within that that sparked thoughts. Let me know if you'd like to share a personal music memory or about something that inspires you from this first article.
Hi Catriona - I'm publishing the first article today, but I'll be doing follow-ups. Have a read and let me know if you'd like to add to the initial article that focuses on the 'soundtrack of our lives, and special moments' or if there is a particular angle you'll write about inspired by this first article. Let me know and I'll link to it in a follow-up. Given your travels may be there's am article on your favourite places and music?!? Best and worst places?!? Any angle is great. I'd like to keep the music-memory as a core theme but any angle is great. Thank you!
Lovely idea! By coincidence I was just checking out your Substack. I write Sandwich Season (https://sandwichseason.substack.com/), about caring for aging parents and growing kids, and recently lost my mom to dementia. Mulling now on songs that brought her joy ... the ones that bring my son joy ... and mine. When do you plan to share your song/story list with readers?
I love beautiful coincidences. My heartfelt condolences, Sarah. BIG empathetic hug.
There is no deadline I will curate it like I do all my 'Evergreen' articles: https://www.carermentor.com/t/table-of-contents. The Resonance one, works well as a reference for Caregivers. I'll start this new Evergreen and keep adding to it...this way everyone has a place to go for uplifting inspiration!
Also, May I suggest you connect with Anna de la Cruz: https://genxandwich.substack.com/
Thank you, Victoria! I will check out the Resonance piece. And, yes, I think I ran across your work via the very cleverly named Gen Xandwich. 😊
YAY, Anna's recent article was an eye opener!
Hi Sarah - the first article is going out today, but there will be follow ups. There's no pressure or stress. I love your thinking about 3 generations of music memories and connection. Have a read of today's article - feel free to suggest something springboarding from the article or pursue whatever angle you wish to use. Let me know when you're near completion and I'll see how I weave things in a follow up with other writers. Thanks!
Hi Victoria -- Thank you for circling back and the gentle nudge! Lots going on here in the caregiving realm, but I will get back to you on this. Looking forward to reading your recent post! More soon ...
I love this! Just from reading this I immediately flicked through songs in my head that have such a mixture of emotions from utter sadness to happiness for me. There are also songs I cannot listen to anymore because they make me feel ill, its such a strange sensation that when I tell people they don't believe me.
Hey Sophie - great. Uplifting memories please. Caregivers have some tough struggles and need all the empathy and connectivity possible. We all need a place to go for some good memories and songs ;-) I SOOOOOO Believe you!
Hi Sophie - If you're not too turned off by sharing a music memory, take a look at the first article that goes out today on this topic. There will be follow-up articles (see my replies above to folks). I wouldn't want to cause you emotional pain reliving painful memories. If you have thoughts and would still like to write a piece, whatever angle you'd like re. music and memories I'd appreciate it. No pressure or stress, I think I'll continue this theme as a 'connector' for quite a while ;-)
Thank you! I'll put my thinking cap on! X
I’ve written something slightly adjacent to this — music that stimulates creativity & inspires art. I’m not sure if it’s exactly what you’re looking for, but I thought I’d share. https://shinjinim.substack.com/p/silence-and-music-in-art
I love your creativity and the intertwining of music and art - could you add the music you listened to? It's not quite what I was looking for but we are each 'lifted' by music in different ways, and I would like to be all inclusive!
Music transporting us to better/more lifted space...was my thought...to be connected beyond our isolated space...
They’re all linked — the music was by another Substacker.
Ah sorry - I see it now. Thanks Shinjini
I love this so idea so much. My father has Alzheimer's and one of the things that makes everything sweet in the house when we're together is music--especially Mexican folk music or anything from the Will The Circle Be Unbroken Nitty Gritty Brass Band album.
Hi Rebecca - BIG empathetic hugs. Have a look around my website, I hope something resonates. My Dad had Vascular dementia, we listened to a lot of classical music together. If you can I'd love to read more. (love your cat drawing!)
Hi Rebecca - The first article is going out today on this topic, but here will be follow-up articles (see my replies above to folks). I'd love to hear and learn more about Mexican folk music. In today's article, there is some interesting research done by AARP that may interest you as it validates why music is so therapeutic for your father!
I think I'll continue this theme as a 'connector' for quite a while so no pressure or stress - read today's article and let me know what angle you'll have and I'll link when you're done. Thanks!
I would love to share this post that I wrote about Barbra Streisand and what she meant to my mom (and me as a child and continuing today) and the significance of her music right before my mom passed away.
https://open.substack.com/pub/charlenealofs/p/a-letter-of-love-to-barbra?r=p8vx8&utm_campaign=post&utm_medium=web
Hi Charlene, Thank you for sharing this beautiful article. I love Babs too. It would be quite fitting for me to put your article in the one I have on Dementia. It is one of my 'Evergreens' - one of my fave Barbara songs ;-)
Please feel free to do so and would you either send me the link to you article or tag me. I would love to read it and thank you for your kind words.
Of course! Welcome!
https://www.carermentor.com/p/dementia-the-unforgettable-impact Shared
I just wrote about a song-based memory for Valentines Day! https://heartsquest.substack.com/p/i-wanna-know-what-love-is
How brave, how uplifting! Heart swelling. Thank you, Christine.
Thank you, Victoria. You're welcome to cross-post to this piece if it fits your Heart's desire... Or?
Thanks, I was thinking of making an overall collection and I'll make a playlist based on all the songs and music...so it'll be a hyperlink to your article I think. I'll figure something to direct to your site.
What a cool project. As a singer I love it.
This is a lovely idea! 🙏🏻
Thanks Kate! Let me know if you have a song/ piece of music and a short, uplifting story, no matter how long or short. As YOU know even the small things can nurture our soul deeply.
Hi Victoria, I did a post like this just recently! Here's the link
https://open.substack.com/pub/behindshojidoors/p/singing-with-understanding?utm_source=share&utm_medium=android&r=2q4rv0
And a little side note, Okasan (my MIL) has dementia. I am her carer. So glad we can contect!
Hi Debbie! Some coincidences are just meant to be! Happy we're connected. I'm saving your article!
Great idea! You’re on!
Great Amy! I know you have lots of songs, given all your great posts!
LOGISTICS: I'll link your post to my site. I just need the full URL.
When I've published the article I'll alert you & share a 'soundbite'.
THEN PLEASE link back from your publication to complete the virtuous circle & CYCLES.
NETWORKING FEEL-GOOD MOMENTS TO LIFT US UP for you and caregivers and anyone who needs it!
BESPOKE TO YOUR SCHEDULE no deadline
So far 5 articles and another 10 interested. YAY!
Free subscribe and share your link here: https://substack.com/chat/2043866/post/2cf8571b-db10-4f73-9581-3fdbe0f93de7
I have the links below saved already
GOOD HEALTH INSURANCE PRIOR TO REACHING MEDICARE AGE. When my husband retires in the next year, we will need to find good health insurance for 2-3 years, but can't afford the $2,000 / month it would require to stay on the insurance we have now through his employer. There must be something out there, but I need help finding it!! Thank you to anyone who decides to take on this topic!
https://justablink.substack.com/
I am super interested in this too!
I hope someone out there has some ideas to get us started on figuring it out!
Me too! Thanks for starting the thread.
I might try to write about this, but it’s state specific! I just recently had experience with the New York State marketplace and prices range from $600+ (can be lower with financial assistance!). Definitely lower than $2,000/month, exact price would depend on your state
Great Maria, thank you! Yes, state specific and there's two of us so that will increase the price, but just some ideas of where to start looking. I know about ACA (Obamacare), but is there any other options out there to compare? I appreciate any suggestions!
I would totally read it if you wrote about it, Maria. I live in New York State so it would be helpful to me, but I'm guessing even if you wrote about your own journey and how you got the information that would help people in other states navigate the labyrinth.
THE NEUROSCIENCE OF OBSESSION (w/ people, things, practices, etc. Not OCD, but obsession in more general terms).
https://substack.com/@kolinacicero
@kolinacicero
Ooh.... I'd love to read that too.
Hopefully someone volunteers! If not, I might have to do some research and write it myself. I'd rather hear from a pro though!
Same here. I could do some research and write a reported personal essay on this topic (in fact I probably will one day) but I'd rather hear from an actual neuroscientist.
Yep, exactly! Well let's be sure to tag one another if we do end up writing the essay!
Definitely!
As a trader, I can definitely argue this is a read many of us millennials (specially) should be analyzing!!!!
Gambling addictions are extremely real nowadays…
Agreed! No takers yet, but hopefully someone will write it!
Loving this one! I'm not a neuroscientist but I am a therapist, so it's something I've explored and done research deep-dives into in the past, and might be able to put something together about. I'll be sure to tag both you and Tanya if I go for it!
Yes! Please do! I would be so fascinated to read that. Thanks, Jane!
THE MAGIC OF HYGGE (or FIKA or LAGOM) for my Notelets on Nurture series! Next topic is THE JOY OF EVERYDAY ADVENTURE .
Find me at: https://brandseasons.substack.com
Sarah! I've written a little bit about hygge (but more tailored to wintering a la Katherine May).
Are you looking for someone to guest post? What specifically are you interested in? As a Minnesotan, hygge is NECESSARY for me!
I’m a big fan of Wintering so a guest post along those lines would be lovely, Kolina. I usually ask for around 500 words (since it’s designed to be a “notelet” and forms part of a longer post) and I have a spot in two weeks!
Okay great! I'm interested! How do you want to go about it. Would you like to email me any additional info?
Sure thing! Share your email and I'll be in touch 😀
Look forward to reading this guest post, Kolina, and always fun to meet a fellow Minnesotan here! Agreed, hygge is a necessity. Hello from up in Grand Marais! 👋🏻
Hi Emily! I adore Grand Marais! My family goes up to Schroeder every fall and we always take a day trip up to GM. I see you're a fiber artist! Love that. My mother-in-law is a basket weaver, so fiber arts interest me a great deal. Really nice to connect with a hygge-practicing Minnesotan! 👋🏻
My friend, @curtisromey touched on this around Christmas.
https://www.shiftingparadigmsblog.com/p/holiday-hygge?utm_source=profile&utm_medium=reader2
The perfect time for hygge. Thanks for sharing!
Oh yes - this would be lovely to read
I love learning about these different concepts!
This sounds like a fun topic! I could write about this from a writing perspective. Making your work environment cozy and inviting is a good first step to take when you feeling some resistance around your writing. What else would you want to know about this topic?
I’d definitely read that, Heidi. I love a cosy writing session. Perhaps you could share five ways to invite warmth into your writing space?
Adding this to my list to write on. Thanks for the nudge!
I’d like to read this, I have a lovely book about Hygge 💛
Same, though when I first got the book I couldn’t pronounce it correctly 😅
I'm keen to find posts on SONGS FROM OUTSIDE THE ROCK-POP CANON (especially as defined by Anglo-American critics/fans) and POPULAR MUSIC FROM BEYOND THE ANGLOPHONE WORLD.
Those are big interests of mine even if that's not (so far) always reflected in my Songs and Objects Substack:
https://songstudies.substack.com/
Let me know if you're doing this work.
Thanks, Richard
Hi Richard, The "Something Wonderful" column of Switter's World sometimes has musical performers known to Switter from his years of international NGO work. Here's a sample: https://open.substack.com/pub/switters/p/something-wonderful-f48?r=1mk0zn&utm_campaign=post&utm_medium=web .
Thanks Tara!
I write about music too. A recent piece about Saramaccan music from Suriname. Plan to do more. Nick Batalones does Asinian music write ups..
Thanks! Following.
https://open.substack.com/pub/blingnotbling/p/saramaccan-sound-suriname?r=ppxv4&utm_campaign=post&utm_medium=web&showWelcomeOnShare=true The Saramaccan music.
WHAT DANCERS and ACTORS KNOW ABOUT EMBODIMENT and FAVORITE TECHNIQUES FOR FINDING IT
@juliarymut
I'm traveling today so I may be slow in tracking to questions or comments. But I'm really curious and this question. I'd love to hear your perspectives. Thank you so much!
One of my teachers specializes in this, I'm not into the dance part but she is: Judith Blackstone: https://www.amazon.com/s?k=judith+blackstone+books&crid=1IYQWMBUWVZCC&sprefix=Judith+Blacks%2Caps%2C193&ref=nb_sb_ss_ts-doa-p_1_13
I've heard of Judith from several unrelated sources. I'll have to connect with her because people keep pointing me in her direction. Thank you!
She's not on Substack, but Hannah de Keijzer is a great resource for this if you're just interested in general. She's a choreographer, dancer, writer, and editor, and she gets it. https://hannahdk.com/feel-good-where-you-work
Great tip, Heidi. Thank you! I'll look her up.
Thank you for prompting this, Julia. I trained extensively in improv & the Theatre of the Oppressed and now explore things like poetry, film, the tarot through a combination of movement/ gesture and imaginal awareness — I enjoy your work & will give you a hello the next time I publish on this delicious topic!
This is great Lisette, will take a look.
Great, Lisette! Thank you. I'm looking forward to hearing your thoughts.
I’m so interested in this.
Mmm mmmm mmm, yes. As a retired actor and acting teacher, it's one of the primary ways I healed my life and found truth in my expression. It's like a secret language that actors and dancers have long known, and the world is catching up. It also has some pitfalls. Let me know how I support or assist.
I was recently pondering about how many spiritual and physical practices I am now discovering elsewhere - were there in tiny moments in my drama school training. It's all so linked! I love reclaiming that path!
Beautiful Yes! Chapel of the Arts ;)
Thank you, Mary. I'm just returning from my travels, digging out my inbox, and getting back to my routine. I'll circle back when I have my thoughts collected. Thank you for your thoughts!
Love this Julia! I would be interested in reading a post on this as well.
Ooh i can definitely write on this, Juila. I am a mostly self-taught dancer and I began with the purpose of wanting to reconnect with my body and my pleasure, so I've learned lots of tools in the process!
I also wanted to share this article with you written by a dancer and a philosopher on dance as the essence of embodiment: https://nyuskirball.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/The-Dance-Essence-of-Embodiment.pdf
Thank you so much, Faye! I really appreciate this link. I started reading it and within the first 2 pages, it had already articulated what I've been trying to say for a long time. I stopped to print it out so I could read it more closely. I can't wait to finish it. Thank you.
If/when you write about this, let me know. I'm really interested to hear what you have to say. In my explorations on embodiment, I find that people with different backgrounds describe embodiment differently. Yogis, trauma therapists, dancer/actors, doctors--they have their own language to describe the experience and sometimes, it seems like they're describing totally different experiences. I've been very curious to see where there is overlap.
Thank you again, Faye!
It's a pleasure to share! I come back to the article often. So far I have not found a more poignant exploration of embodiment through the written word.
I absolutely will let you know when I write about it. And now that you mention it, I'm also quite intrigued about the overlaps. I imagine that would be quite illuminating in this realm of experiences that often transcend language.
THINKING OF EXPLORING WHEN A REGULAR THERAPIST IS NOT ENOUGH AND YOU NEED TO FIND A SPECIALIST THERAPIST.
I’m at Therapy and Other Stories
DETAILED INEXPENSIVE TRAVEL FOR FAMILIES
I’d love to learn about realistic travel plans and hacks from real life travelers with their families (not the Instagram highlight reel version)
@thewellnessconnection
HA! I read this too quickly as "Detailed EXPENSIVE Travel for Families."
Glad I read it again.
I wasn't sure you'd find anyone!
Probably not, haha!
Hi Lori, I'm going to be writing about Flagstaff, Arizona from the perspective of a local next Friday and it's a great place for families, but can be expensive depending on time of year and how far away you are.
Excellent! I’d love to read it!
Ooh fantastic, my son (British) studied at NAU for a loved it, as did the rest of us when we visited!
Great! It is a beautiful place to live!
I’ve got a good amount of this on my blog…now to get it in substack!! We did Portugal as a family of 4 and it was incredibly inexpensive just by nature of the destination!
I’m working on cape cod, Massachusetts by town in my substack drafts at the moment!
Will follow up with links to current travel if this interests you.
I would love that, please do share! Thanks!
Hi Lori! here is one of the first posts I wrote on here -
https://kristenluiso.substack.com/p/its-the-journey-for-me
at the bottom are some round ups with all my blog post links to porto, lisbon, and lagos, portugal, links to airbnbs (which were all inexpensive!) are in the blog posts too.
one post with lots of considerations for / when travelling with kids (mine are little!)
https://indulgeinspireimbibe.blogspot.com/2023/09/p-o-r-t-o-portugal.html
let me know how I can do better with all this, or if you have a destination in mind I can help link to, if I have been!! :)
Thank you! I will check out both your blog and substack!
WHY ARE WE SO WIRED TOWARD FINDING PEOPLE JUST LIKE US
trevythomas.substack.com
Seriously and politically incorrect?
However you want to do it. But I'm thinking more in line with why we need to belong so badly that some people will fake their true beliefs in order to fall in line with a tribe. I know it was key to our survival originally but it's not any more and people are even more blindly loyal, even if it's a cult.
I'd suggest looking into attachment theory. I write on this kind of thing from time to time. If you want to think about familiar behaviors as being comforting, people are attracted to what makes them feel safe, even if the behaviors being evidenced are abusive, self-serving, and manipulative--often from family of origin-related learned behaviors, but also because we can have a tendency to pendulum toward the opposite of what we grew up with as a reactionary measure. I'd be tempted to write on this, but it might be too broad to cover in just one go.
Sounds like you're perfect for it! Thank you.
UNHEALTHY FOOD WE EAT (IN SECRET!) WHAT'S YOURS?
@beelilyjones
I'm eating Simply Cheetos Crunchy White Cheddar right now! Shhh!
Haha I eat so much chocolate! 🤭
Nice one! Think this is the one I’m going to write about as I love foodie prompts 😋
Mine has to be anything savoury from the Indian snack aisle though particularly partial to Methi Puri
Yes! That’s great, Perzen. I am looking forward to reading your piece. <heads off to kitchen to make a wotsit sandwich>
THE SCIENCE BEHIND HUMAN DESIGN
https://www.growthovereasy.com/
@growthovereasy
I have done a lot of work and writing on approaches to collaboratively designing a better future. If something like that fits I'd be happy to discuss it.
Do you study the Human Design system?
Sorry, I realize now that you were probably talking about something else than I was thinking. My area is what is called things like human systems design, human systems dynamics, or social systems design. This involves methods for enabling groups of people to co-design and implement a shared future, specifically in an effort sometimes called conscious evolution.
That does sound really interesting!
Oh hey Lilly! I write about Human Design. Tell me more about what you’re looking for please
So I'm a 2/4 and would love some in depth writing on the 2 line and understanding your gifts/genius. Big blind spot.
Hmmm, maybe I’ll write a love letter to 2/4s. My husband is a 2/4 as well. (I’m a 4/6)
Love that. Also if you are interested in sharing more of the history/science of HD I'd love to read that too.
I think I covered a little bit of that in here: https://open.substack.com/pub/kelseyabbott/p/the-human-design-glossary-what-is?r=2ygkz5&utm_campaign=post&utm_medium=web
I would definitely read more and this topic and will follow Doug and Kelsey. Thanks!
Emily, do you have any specific Human Design questions?
Hi Kelsey,
I think I'm with Doug here. I was thinking Lilly was talking about human systems/design. However, now I am interested in this other kind of human design and will check out your Substack and Doug's. Thanks!
is there actually science behind it?
I believe in the quantum physics world. But I don't fully understand. Hoping someone knows more about it than me.
Yeah, I’d like to know how to explain human design, too. I have understood that human design was channeled, and also/yet is a combination of multiple systems. I don’t think that channeled wisdom falls into the science category - but the phenomenon of channeling itself from a quantum physics type perspective, that could be a good read.
Yeah, I’d like to know how to explain human design, too. I have understood that human design was channeled, and also/yet is a combination of multiple systems. I don’t think that channeled wisdom falls into the science category - but the phenomenon of channeling itself from a quantum physics type perspective, that could be a good read.
RAISING BIRACIAL CHILDREN
https://kaitlynramsay.substack.com/
I have this personal experience. What would you like to know?
I'd love to hear about your personal experience, Cheniece! More specifically, the unexpected challenges you've encountered, especially in a world so unkind, and how you've overcome (or continue to work through) them. I'm not sure about your's and your partner's backgrounds, but I'm also curious to hear stories of parents from different countries who have had to choose where to raise their children and how they came to the decision.
Ah, I see. Me and my partner are both American, different races. He's white and I'm black. We have two biracial children that we raise together in the southern USA state of Mississippi, where ignorance and racism, even from family and "friends", have affected us enough to write (a lot) about. If this is any help to you, I see this as fascinating to write about personally.
AHH yes!!! I would love to read about your story, Cheniece! It would be really helpful to hear more about the ignorance and racism you face, especially from family and "friends".
You've got it. Those subjects will be so interesting for me to address, as there is a lot of experiences that I could share about them. If you don't mind, tell me more about what exactly you're looking for so far as a format and contents. Even some writing prompts or questions to guide me would be excellent. I'd love to get this done!
I'm excited to hear from you! Let me put some ideas together and I will touch back in soon.
Okay I've been sitting with it for a minute, let me know if any of these spark interest for you:
- a "how to" style of addressing racism from those you love for parents of biracial children
- how to navigate what's best for your kids and how you make decisions as a couple and/or where you disagree or see things differently and how you move through it
- a letter to those who are ignorant and what you wish they could understand
I'm pretty open because there is so much I do want to know that couldn't possibly be put into one piece, so take it in a place that feels best for you!
I’m biracial and wrote a tad about this in a recent post (erikatovi.substack.com/p/missed-in-translation). I have some ideas for future posts centered around my experience growing up among mostly white friends and communities. Is there anything in particular you’d want to know about that experience?
I loved reading your post, Erika! I'd love to hear more about what it was like for you growing up in mostly white communities. Your perspective of being a biracial child is one I'm really interested in, too. I'd like to hear about challenges regarding your sense of identity, if you've experienced that. I'm also curious to know your experience of connecting to your Japanese culture while being raised in America. Was there anything your family did that you really appreciated (or appreciate now looking back)? Or maybe wish they did differently?
HOW THE MEDIA ALLOWS MEN TO EXHIBIT RAGE, BUT NOT WOMEN (think: the Super Bowl photo of Travis Kelce yelling at the ref)
www.reclaimingthenewsletter.com
You think this is unique to the media?
Not unique at all, but focusing on media for this piece.
Well, I'm afraid that if I wrote anything like this I would be in favor, so probably not what you are looking for :)
In favor of not allowing women to exhibit rage? I write a feminist newsletter. Not sure these comments were necessary.
This might be fun for me to tackle. I was a Media Studies major in college. I was annoyed with some of the media coverage around the Super Bowl and Taylor Swift. Around rage specifically, I'm thinking of what I read just today about Fani Willis taking the stand to testify in her own trial about prosecutorial misconduct. This isn't really my niche, but I do take a feminist angle in my writing and this could be a fun little side-project :)
And yelling at his vaunted Coach! Serious dbag energy. 😉🙄
Women exhibit rage often, generally in the form of passive aggression, manipulation, cold-shoulder, professional or interpersonal sabotage in social groups. I see examples of this mostly in television and film, so this entirely depends on how you define media.
SOCIAL IMPACT or FUTURE OF WORK Examples
Would love to contribute to or read about or discuss personal experiences with businesses that are both good for their employees and good for the world.
https://www.essentialissues.news
@dougwalton
I like this topic Doug. Although I think this requires some real PhD-style independent research - to get under the skin of when companies' outer faces line up with their internal workings :). I have worked a long time in organisations working for social impact and have not found many examples where these too correlate to being good for their employees. And I think anecdotes can vary based on personal journeys etc. Do you have any examples from your experience? Maybe the article could be 5 indicators that businesses are good for their employees and good for the world?
That's a good idea to break into 5 indicators as I would ultimately like to encourage people to invest in and seek out companies that are positive for world. I have some research and personal examples from my org change work on the positive correlations of workplace wellbeing /L&D initiatives on ROI and employee satisfaction. I agree with you though, there is a lack of solid research on the connection and there is some concern that its more of marketing show than reality.
Similarly, there are companies identified through various competitions and evaluations as being good "conscious companies." I want to believe those exist and hope that as we go we'll figure out how to foster them. But, even so the research is on, past initiatives not what is emerging, and I would like to hear the stories of people who were actually there.
Good topic, especially with AI coming in. I’m interested, but over my head to author something.
Hi Doug - have you read this: https://www.amazon.co.uk/World-Three-Zeros-Economics-Unemployment/dp/1541767926 A World of Three Zeros: The New Economics of Zero Poverty, Zero Unemployment, and Zero Net Carbon Emissions Paperback – 26 Sept. 2017 by Muhammad Yunus.
I haven't read that! Thanks, I'll add it to the list. It looks especially interesting because in fact I work with some companies in India who are using entrepreneurship and innovation to help rural communities and fight pollution. I've definitely had the sense that what Yunus is talking about is happening there.
CENSORSHIP OF LITERARY MATERIAL (POLITICAL, SEXUAL, ET AL.)
@https://lennycavallaro.substack.com/
Also interested in reading about this!
What would you like to know?
I would like to see more about the dangers of banning books and other content on society as a whole, or from an angle of the benefit it has for the government. Maybe even a look back through history and what was happening in the world when certain books have been banned.
Gratitude for your interest. Kindly see my response to @Abra McAndrew, above -- and by all means join in the conversation! Cordially, Lenny
I might write about this. What would you like to know?
My own works, which are really relatively benign, have been censored: not by anyone who read them, but by computer algorithm. I am not making this up. Indeed, two of my novels are selling on Barnes & Noble in paperback, but they have been banned in digital format. There is no one to whom I can appeal.
Suffice it to say that our Western cultural heritage will not be harmed if all of my books are removed from circulation. I have only modest pretensions as a story-teller, and I recognize the realities of the publishing world at this time -- particularly for an introvert with no marketing skills. A number of great works, many now deemed classics, were banned and even burned (or otherwise destroyed).
I am interested in learning about the experiences of others with censorship, and I hope we can put our heads together and find a way to combat it. Many thanks for your input.
Two completely different options, cuz I couldn't choose:
THE 3 BEST THINGS ABOUT PERI-MENOPAUSE (AND/OR 3 THINGS YOU LEARNED FROM IT)
or
AN ANECDOTE FROM YOUR PAST TOLD WITH A MAGICAL REALISM BENT
https://hollystarley.substack.com @hollystarley
Oooh, I LOVE both these topics! Here's an answer to your second one from a piece I'm working on--but it includes both because--one of my favorite things about perimenopause is that I get to be THE CRAZY AUNT.
Here is an anectdote from the past with magical realism.
"So one day, while I was meditating, the whales came in..
They floated in like moonbeams. Old. Gorgeous. Calmed by a velvety blueness of deepest parts of the ocean. They said: connect to us daily—no, that’s probably too hard. Connect to us often! When you meditate, or when you feel like it. Write down what we say. Do this for three months and see what happens.
This past week I was at the party after the funeral for my father-in-law, in the kitchen talking to my son and my nephew. We were all sad and happy to be with each other and my nephew said something about how his parents never let him play video games.
I said I’d lost that battle in my house. I didn’t want my kids playing video games at all. But they did—for hours--and finally I said, “Fine. Have at it. But for every hour that you play Fortnite, you have to go outside and take a ten-minute tree bath.”
“I don’t remember that at all,” said my son.
“You did it a few times,” I said.
My nephew shook his head and reached for a beer. He said, “Aunt Rebecca, I love you. The crazy hippie shit that comes out of your mouth…”
Good, I thought. Everyone needs a crazy aunt. A woman who wears red pants in her 50s, draws cats, says crazy shit, talks to the whales when she meditates.
So I connected to them, each time I meditated, for three months. Then a year. Then I kept going because who wouldn’t want to talk to highly evolved beings that have been on the planet for millions of years, traveling the seas, singing to each other? It doesn’t matter to me whether or not it’s real. I just like being alive this way.
They said, your job is to approach your work with a glad heart! That’s all. That’s money. First, make yourself happy--the way you are right now. Or, do some other thing that makes your heart lift, even if it’s a good cup of coffee and time with the cat. THEN go to work. That way you can send your happiness to others.
They said: All humans have a song that is unique to you, a note that only you can hit perfectly. Find this note, you knew it as a child. Cherish it, celebrate it, and love it. There is no other song like it and it will not exist after you are gone. Sing it always! That’s what we do all day long in the bottom of the sea. This is how we hold the world. This is how we find each other a thousand miles away.
“Old. Gorgeous. Calmed by a velvety blueness of deepest parts of the ocean.” Love it. Love your nephew loving the crazy hippie shit that comes out of your mouth. Love the whales holding up the world and telling you about it. Thank you, thank you, Rebecca! You have totally made my day. 💕🐳
Aww, thank you so much Holly! I felt pretty vulnerable releasing part of an essay before I publish the whole thing--thank you for your warm response. You have made my day!
Yay! Can’t wait to read the entire piece when it drops. Tag me in a note about it if you wanna. 🥰
I absolutely will. Thank you so much for your interest. You inspired me to work on one of the other magical realism pieces in these series I've been working on about a 50 year old woman who goes to psychic school. I'm excited to start reading your work. I see a sisterhood of the red pants forming....
Also, just subscribed to Out of My Mind and can’t wait to dive into more of this wonderful writing of yours.
Yay! Thank you. I subcribed to your rolling desk, too.
OMG SHELL 🐚 YES To what the whales told you about singing your own song. I'm a singer who sings every day while I'm in or beside the Salish Sea. Singing with the seals and seagulls and orcas and the sky ! It's lovely to become semi-weird.
I sea you, sister!
Christine! I didn't know you were near the Salish Sea. It's one of my favoritely named bodies of water.
OMG, @Rebecca! That got a follow and a subscribe. What glorious writing. In red-pants solidarity, another crazy hippie aunt here.
Hi, Julie! Thank you so much! I'm following and subscribing back--we aunties have to stick together..
PS. I am also the crazy hippie aunt for sure. Often the crazy hippie aunt whose van is parked in the niblings' driveway. 🤣 And I have a pair of bright red pants I adore.
Love this Rebecca! And love your wise whale friends. Just subscribed to your substack and look forward to more crazy aunt stories in red pants.
I can take Peri on - founded a company for it in 2020 and know WAY too much... I'll be doing this one and tagging you next week :)
OMG, Julie! Thank you, thank you. I am at the beginning and confounded by a symptom I had not fathomed as a possibility (joint pain). I have long promised myself to take on this phase with joy. I believe the more knowledge I can attain, the better I’ll be able to do so. :)
Immediate pro tip: Start taking Type 2 (has to be type 2) collagen - won't do much for skin but DOES help joints. Don't need a fancy brand, just go to Swanson or a no-frills place that does quality. Anti-inflammatory diet will help, too (unfortunately, because that means less sugar and refined carbs). Also: Don't fear Hormone Therapy unless you have a history of breast cancer or high likelihood of it. That's been debunked but honestly, modern OB-GYNs weren't trained on it and it's a trial and error to find the right kind. You must be on progesterone if you take estrogen via patch or orally - if they say otherwise, run. That's my quick note but I will get a post out there. Happy to answer questions. I know WAY too much about all of this and we just exited our company so I have no horse in this race except helping women.
Julie! Thank you. this is spot on to the research I've been doing. Just got some collagen. Gonna check now to make sure it's type 2. Thanks! I am so excited for and appreciative of this coming post. :)
Also if you do not take fish oil, take one. Needs to be high quality though, ideally refrigerated. Carlson is good, there are other good ones. You can also start eating more whole sardines and anchovies if that works for you.
Solidarity! I had horrific joint pain too - in my hands. I was unable to write or type for months. It was devastating. Thank goodness HRT solved it and I can write again. Also, acupuncture helps.
Oh, wow! That sucks. Mine's hips and shoulders. Inability to type would be brutal. I'm very hopeful to hear HRT helped. :)
Ouch - hips and shoulders. That's tough. Wishing you smooth and speedy healing. HRT has been wonderful for me. If I forget to change my patch on time my hands start aching - I've dubbed them my oestrogen canary-in-the-coal-mine.
That's great to have such a clear correlation. 🐥
Also, just subscribed to the Business of Women. I love the titles I saw and I’m excited to delve into your work. ♥️
THANK YOU! Will subscribe to you as well!
Wonderful! Will follow you to learn more. Meanwhile, goji berries were a life-saver for me. I don’t remember the nutritional reason but they really helped with hot flashes. Plus, not drinking red wine. 😭
Great tip. Thanks, Julie. Notice I only said tip. Goji berries I'm here for. No red wine? 😬 J/K, willing to try what works. But I do enjoy a glass of red from time to time. :)
It's very sad, indeed. I haven't been able to drink a whole glass in over 10 years. But I've been known to scarf off my husband's once in a while.
Sips! I can get behind that.
Hot Flashes are not well understood but one thing that actually works well for them is hypnotherapy if you want to avoid supplements or hormones. Acupuncture is good too. I personally think everyone should see a functional MD if that's possible for you in terms of $ and access. They are booked and hard to find. The Hot Flash supplement we made also gets good reviews. The company name is Wile. We just exited so I have no direct tie anymore, just letting you know.
Also, coconut oil. Just sayin. Very versatile.
Following, and look forward to reading this too.
Hi Holly, I understand that you're interested in knowing more about perimenopause. I went through that in my mid-30s actually, with hormonal imbalance that led to gigantic fibroids. I went into menopause in my mid-40s, so I went through the whole process. I actually wrote a piece on menopause on Medium a few years ago, which also touches on a bit of my perimenopausal experience. It doesn't address your topic precisely, but I think it might spark some new thoughts: https://louisawellness.medium.com/defining-menopause-with-powerful-metaphors-d0303f34580b
Thank you, Louisa!! I am interested in all tags on peri/menopause. And I love your writing. I will for sure check this out.
Thank you, Holly! I'm open to discussing my personal experience with perimenopause if you'd like to hear more. I would love to write about it, too... but it's a huge topic in my mind, and my current medical condition prevents me from doing so pronto. P.S. Hmmm, maybe I can just repost this Medium piece on Substack, because... why not? ;-) Thanks for your inspiration!
I think for sure you can!
Holly, I just did it, and added a P.S. Thank you so much for your encouragement! xo
https://lilypond.substack.com/p/defining-menopause
This is a wonderful piece, you all. Check it out! And thanks, Louisa!
I write about Ayurveda for women's health, including menopause... I'm very interested in the initiation / empowerment that comes from menopause so I'll get my thinking cap on! Great idea!
Thanks, Michelle!
I love the sound of the empowerment! 💫
I am very interested in this as I am in midlife. Would love to hear more.
I may have a post along the lines of your second one. https://open.substack.com/pub/buildinghope/p/three-lights?r=4cg2x&utm_campaign=post&utm_medium=web
Oh, Julie! Thanks. I'm exited to read "Three Lights," and that watercolor image is gorgeous.
Enjoy!
Oh gosh I’m in perimenopause and struggle to find the good side of the experience! I guess I don’t have to wash my hair as often! 🤣
I'll take it! The little things matter, right?!
Mine was brutal for about a year but I've recently found a place of balance. Thank goodness! I love Holly's request (challenge!) to seek the positives. A year ago I'd have thrown that idea from a high window but maybe now I can do it.
TBH, I relate to the defenestration compulsion. ;)
When I was writing my short film, I was sitting in meditation and in my imagination an entire scene with a small girl in a field of dandelions, opened up and played out before me. I tried to bring my attention back to releasing my thoughts but it wouldn't let go. It ultimately became my opening scene in my film and the name of the film, Dandelion. It was the perfect image to share of a small girls wishes versus the reality that came next. It was a gift!
Awesome, Mary. A dandelion is such a fruitful image. It has tones of ephemerality, of vitality, of resilience, and of hope all in one.
I began a process of connecting with the moon cycles (to replace menstrual cycles) to create natural rhythms for my creativity with an Arts Council funded Moonpause project, which I’m turning into a Substack. Not there yet with the ‘what I’ve learned’ but working on self-compassion through writing and living with/embracing uncertainty.
That's wonderful, Mel! May the moonpause project be all you hope and may be all continue to learn and to embrace uncertainty!
Wow, both these topics made me sit up! I want to read them and write them. I'll stir these requests into my creative soup and see what bubbles up.
Oh yay! I'm glad to hear it. Tag me for sure in a note or something if either or both results in something that rises to the surface. Would love to read!
HOW TO RECOVERY FROM SEXUAL TRAUMA It's daunting even typing those words because I don't believe there's a '3 step plan' to healing, but I want to at least create something that could be a useful starting point for other survivors.
https://clareegan.substack.com/
As a survivor, I would be interested in reading this.
Thank you Dustin. That might be the nudge I need to press publish
My pleasure. 🙂 Let me know if there's anything else I can do to help.
Thank you!
Hi Clare - I relate to this - not sure I am in a place to write a 3 step healing plan and honestly I wouldn't believe anyone who did :) but I think that useful starting point angle you suggest is interesting.
Thank you Catriona. My first draft was more like a 19 point plan, but I'll finesse it into something that might be useful to people. I'm happy to discover your writing too. I spent the first part of my career in the international development/non-profit world, and am looking forward to reading more from you.
Yes a 19-point plan sounds more nuanced to me tbh. I am looking forward to hearing what you write about this - you have got me thinking how I would approach that question. And that is so nice to connect to another fellow international development professional. Lovely to be connected.
Hi Claire, I think a 19 point plan is definitely more realistic. I also think they’re a lot of people out there who would really want to read this but don’t feel they’re qualified even though they’ve experienced it (like me). Do we ever feel qualified to write about this? But it’s so necessary and as you say, healing. Thanks for typing those words.
I responded to another writer's desire for TRAUMA stories. Didn’t really face my sexual trauma till I moved to a native village near Seattle, where I learned from indigenous elders how to heal, with earth-based practices. Long daily walks.
Ooh this resonates. Walking was the only form of exercise I could cope with for a period. In many ways, it saved me. Thanks for the comment, Christine.
I'm not qualified to write this, but I wanted to share I am in a course with several others that are engaged in learning Nervous System Regulation (based on polyvagal theory) in order to address sexual trauma. Her name is Sarah Baldwin, and she has shared publically that she experienced sexual abuse.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PWuohu9x8pI
https://www.sarahbaldwincoaching.com/
Thanks you for these recommendations, Matthew. I'm going to check out Sarah's work. (& for the record, I also feel unqualified to write thie piece. But I might still try.) Thanks for the comment, I really appreciate it!
SELF-DISCIPLINE AS A WRITER - I'm looking for day-by-day tips. I already have a weekly schedule (e.g. posting on Substack at the weekends) but otherwise I've been struggling to not give myself too much to do (and then get overwhelmed by how much I have to do). I'm doing better than I was, but I could do with some guidance, please <3
I write fiction (and about fiction) as @colquittwrites over at https://colquittwrites.substack.com/
Hi E. A! This sounds great. Are you interested in figuring out how to balance multiple projects from day to day? Like work on your fiction and your Substack consistently?
Yes, basically.
I balanced different projects/subjects fairly easily when in formal education - I was thinking of making a proper timetable for myself? But there's been a pandemic since then, and I've been trying to get myself back to a better balance ever since :)
Did you do Sara Fay's goal setting workshop? She had a cool planner. But I've mostly been using the Pomodor App to set tasks for myself each day, like one task from each of the projects I'm currently working on. I like knowing that I'll do 2 Pomodoors (I set them for 30 minutes each) on the book proposal I'm writing, then shift to 2 or more Pomodoros to write a first draft of my latest Substack post.
Very similar how I am working these days, on four different Film/TV scripts and a weekly (brand new, so lots to figure out still...) Substack! The timer has beat the procrastination out of me and helped me to have healthier work patterns AND move on with work, daily!
Not yet no. I paid-subscribed to do the workshop but I haven't yet found the time to do the workshop aaaaaaaaa
It's one reason I started this thread lol
I'd like to read this too!
E.A., I'm a systemizer. I find that creating for myself templates and step-by-step processes I follow as part of my writing/publishing/submitting practice makes it that much more doable. Is this an angle you'd be interested in?
Definitely!
I kind-of do things like this already (I recently cracked what sort of plot works for me re novel-writing, given the characters I have), but it definitely needs improvement.
My bigger problems are a) finding a method of organising that works for me, and b) not having to keep it all in my head (e.g. if I had a step-by-step process, like you do, I'd like to be able to actually get it out of my head and into a document that I could just pull out and refer to when I needed it, and for that to be that. At the moment, any methods I try keep changing because of changing circumstances).
Yes, I might be your girl, then. Docs and sheets have been created!! They do evolve though. I think it would take me a little longer than next week to craft something that might make sense. But I’ll give it a try and tag you if it comes together.
In the longer term, a workshop or two on this very subject has been a gleam in my eye. I currently host workshops on being your own editor and plan to host more in fall. I’ve been wondering if people would be interested in systemizing as a topic of the fall workshops--the idea being you’re your own managing or assigning editor. So this request give me encouragement.
In the meantime, I’ll work on drafting something I could post sooner. Thanks, E.A.!
The evolving is something I'm trying to get used to...
Yes, please tag me in a post! Thanks :)
Hi E.A.
I am a big fan of setting a timer for 20-30 minutes, 3x a week, and sitting down, taking one thing I'm struggling with: a scene, a moment, a story beginning or an ending, and then writing that whole time without looking up. I am amazed at what I can do in 20 minutes. I am amazed at what my clients and people I write with can do in 20 minutes. It's beautiiful! For my first book I had a three hour a day practice, now I have a 20-30 minutes a day practice. (Sometimes I do it a few times a day.) It is much easier and more freeing. For me, that idea that a writer has to do HOURS a day is old, and may never have been true in the first place. (If I'm honest, when I wrote that way there was a lot of getting up and having coffee or snacks or looking out the window and dreaming in the world from whatever character I was working with's point of view. ) I also like to vary my creative practices, so I don't get stuck one thing and overwork it. I love this topic, so if you have more questions, let me know!!
Like the Pomodoro method?
I also don't do hours and hours a day actualy writing (I'd say that daydreaming about my characters counts as part of the writing process).
I'm the same re varying things - I like to vary re what projects I do, for the same reasons as you. One of my problems is that I'm doing that too much, getting way too distracted, etc.
How can I rein it in?
I didn't know there was a name for it--it might be the Pomodoro method. That is such a good question about reining it in. I don't know what would work for you, but for me when I get like that, I put everything in piles, so they each have their own space. Then I sit down and meditate and ask which one wants to be worked on. Then I give it my full attention. I'm thinking about offering one of these meditation fueled creative practice sessions to my readers. Do you think that's something that would be helpful to others? It helps me get more focused, that's for sure!
I love starting with an inner inquiry. I do soul journaling— ask my wise inner sage what to focus on, how to approach a problem, etc. When I do this first, or a walk holding the same questions - everything flows better.
Yes, me too!
Pomodoro method is about 20 minutes of focus, done multiple times a day, between 5 minutes of breaks.
Yes, meditation helps me focus. I'd be interested in that sort of practice session :)
I love this tip! I'm a romance and short story writer and I also struggle a lot with having a consistent writing time, but I might as well try the 30 mins trick, it sounds very doable. Thank you for sharing!^^
You got it! I hope it works for you!
Thank you! If it worked for me I'll write a post about it and tag you!^^
Do you know about 'Thorny Thursday' on here? (If not, it's a weekly challenge for/collection of romance writing - see my Notes)
I didn't know about it yet, but it sounds wonderful! I will definitely check it out.^^
That’s really good advice!
I have been using a Pomodoro app, and it has totally changed my writing practice! I'm so much more focused and productive. I wrote a post about it: https://lettersfromanne.substack.com/p/goals-shmoals-what-comes-next
Thank you - I'll come back to your post :)
Helpful intro to the process, thank you.
It’s a really good topic. Maybe I’ll write about this. I do the ‘golden hour’ - and write for an hour every morning first thing, which produces a post about once a week. I think routine helps so you dont have to think too much, sounds like you have one for the weekends
https://lettersfromtherapy.substack.com
Thank you. Please tag me if you do write about it!
I do a... silver half-hour lol - after breakfast, not when I first get up :D
Do you have anything on motivation, as well?
Less on the day-by-day tips (but some mentioned briefly), but some personal stories and stories from other writers (actors, and more) about motivation to write as well as doing it consistently: https://aistesgram.substack.com/p/unlocking-the-power-of-daily-routines
Also, I am still new here and still trying to figure it all out, so I welcome feedback to the max!
Thank you for your reply and for the link. I'll come back and read your post :)
What would you like to know? I write posts on writing and run a workshop on writing habits and daily writes.
How to stop overscheduling myself, mainly (and also, I guess, how to find the motivation to make myself a timetable) :)
WHY ARE PEOPLE SO ANGRY ABOUT EVERYTHING AND CAN NO LONGER HAVE DEBATE AND CIVILIZED DISCOURSE WHEN THEY DON'T AGREE? @dariadiaz
https://dlbdiaz.substack.com/
I realize the instructions to write the topic in all caps, but it's funny to read your suggestion thinking the all caps is yelling the idea at me lolol
That's funny.
🤣
Oh, Daria. This is a topic I think about a lot. I don't know if I could write my way into any real answers, only explorations of why I feel my own blood boil more quickly than it use to and attempts I've made, to varying degrees of success, to have civilized discourse.
Would you be interested in that angle?
That would be interesting. Anything that sheds light on why people can't seem to talk about things anymore without getting mad. I'd love to read about your experience with this. I'm really seeking understanding. There are conversations I just can't have at all with some friends and family. It's so unfortunate. They get mad and make it personal, which makes me mad. To keep the peace, it's just easier to avoid controversial topics. We learn by discussing and debating, which has been all but shut down.
Yes, I agree. I think it’s an endemic, and I think it’s a massive problem. I am inspired to take this on. The caveat is that I’m not a super fast turn-it-around person. So I will get to drafting this right away. But I won’t have a final version by my next post. So, I hope that you, as my assigning editor of this piece, are willing to give me a bit of extra time ;).
Assuming you’re amenable, i will definitely tag you in it when I post. Thank you for submitting this topic. It’s baffling and I think deeply important. I appreciate you inspiring me to be brave and try and tackle it. Like you say, it has become easier to avoid so much.
Thanks! I'll look forward to seeing your post whenever you get it done. No pressure from me. I'm not lightening fast myself.
Daria, what a great question. Just wrote a piece on that very thing. Elliot Ackerman in “Halcyon” takes it on. The piece includes a quote that speaks to the topic.
https://trialsbywriting.substack.com/p/the-latent-brilliancy-of-halcyon
Thanks, I'll check them out. I just wish people would lighten up and learn to agree to disagree without making it personal.
I bought the book. It sounds very interesting. I saw you're from Louisiana. I'm not from Louisiana, but I've lived here for almost 40 years and my husband is born and raised in New Orleans.
That’s great! Let me know what you think about the book.
I miss New Orleans food.
Yes! I've been writing about conversations as a spiritual practice. I've been thinking about how to have hard conversations, but I'm still working on getting deeper. Since I am a pastor, this is essential. People are afraid to talk about important things because they fear the blowback from angry people who can't have curious conversations.
WHY SAUL BELLOW'S MR. SAMMLER'S PLANET IS ONE OF THE GREAT BOOKS OF AMERICAN LITERATURE
https://www.listeningsessions.ca/
@Robert C. Gilbert
A BEGINNERS GUIDE TO PLANTING A MEDICINAL HERB GARDEN
I'm at https://jodyday.substack.com/ and @jodyday @gatewaywomen
Also, I'm based by the Atlantic in SW Ireland, so am really interested in Northern European medicinal herbs and making medicines from them.
If this is something you know about, I'd love to follow your work!
Jody x
I'm not the one to write this. But I, too, would like to read that article. Fingers crossed you get at taker!
Same as Holly - hope you get a taker!
Jody, tell me more. I am an Integrative physician and teach culinary medicine including how to grow food and medicinal herbs in your own garden. But not sure I am the right person to write what you want. I focus on the most common herbs you can use in medicinal remedies at home and the medicinal aspects of gardening itself. But not so much of a gardening primer if that makes sense. Have never written about it because it doesn't quite fit in my Substack. I hope someone writes about it if I'm not the right person!
Tanmeet, perhaps we could collaborate on this. I'm a gardener and novice herbalist. So together we may have all the pieces!
Cool! x
Very cool!! Following you as well and I will think on this! Let me know if you have thoughts as well. So much goodness could come out of this!
I very much want to do what you do - make medicinal remedies at home. If it's not something you would write about, can you perhaps suggest a good primer for a beginner like me? Thank you x
Happy to write about it if there's interest! I can put it in my queue:) Or to add some pieces to something related that you are writing? Love what you are doing on here!
Thank you! Looks like quite a few of us would love to read it! I'm not planning to write anything on it myself just yet - maybe later in the year when I've actually planted something - Spring comes quite late in Ireland. Thank you for your support for my Substack topics too; as one loss warrior to another, I send you my love. Jody x
I'm an Ayurvedic practitioner and would also be interested to read this, even though I have a tiny yard 😭
I could write from experience about planting and reaping about only 50 percent of my plants! I have never had all of them survive, so not sure I'm a total expert on the topic but I love planning gardens based on medicinal needs and local growing environments :)
I think this sounds like a realistic aim for a beginner, so I'd love to hear more about your experience!
Does anyone have everything survive? I hear you on this :-)
This is really interesting - I'd love to read more about this - and feature a gustiest on it on my substack https://jothompson.substack.com
Great Substack - have subscribed and looking forward to learning from you x
And I’ve subscribed to yours - so happy to have discovered it
I love this topic. I’m a longtime gardener and grow all kinds of herbs. I’ve also experimented a bit with home remedies, but not with much organization, or a whole lot of knowledge. I’d like to know more!
HOW YOU PICKED YOUR PET NAME
I'm just starting a new Substack: Puppy Love 411 about getting and raising a new puppy
https://puppylove411.substack.com/
@suesenger
...does it count if i already did this?...love that prompt!!...
https://cansafis.substack.com/p/minnesota
https://cansafis.substack.com/p/sidney
Sure does for me! i will go take a look - thanks!
I’m looking forward to reading this!
I'm sure there could be a lot of very fun posts written about this topic!
That's what I am hoping! I'd love to write mine and then @ mention everyone and/or share my favorite quotes out of the other posts.
That sounds like a great idea!
I always ask visitors to the Bond Between pet food shelf a question to break the ice. I’ve asked what their pet names are but never asked how they came up with the name. Great idea! I’ll let you know when I’ve written something!
Sure - sounds great! I think the post could generate a lot of good naming stories!
I did this for one of our dogs:
https://kelseyabbott.substack.com/p/permission-to-stay-in-your-pajamas
Awesome - thank you! I will take a look
My son and I went through quite the process when we named our 11-month old puppy. I've written a few posts about him in the past year but not about how we chose his name. Thanks for the suggestion. This is one post about Remy that seemed to resonate with readers: https://tracymansolillo.substack.com/p/remys-realm-2
Fantastic - thanks I will check out your post and if you write about how you chose his name I will tag you in my post too. This is just going to be so much fun! I am really so thrilled with everyone's interest and responses.
Thanks, I'll let you know when I do! Best of luck with the new venture. BTW- what kind of puppy? Remy is a 'mini' Bernedoodle.
My new furbaby is a German Shepherd. I put his picture in the Coming soon post which I think is live? I will move it to the welcome page - I am still just getting the newsletter set up and my puppy is coming home this Sunday so excited as this all comes together.
And hey - thanks for signing up! You are the first one and that is so kind. I appreciate the encouragement.
BEST WAYS TO USE CHAKRAS IN EVERYDAY LIFE
https://theultracontemplative.substack.com/
@theultracontemplative
I'd love to read this!
https://open.substack.com/pub/womenswellbeing/p/the-best-way-to-use-chakras-in-everyday?r=2wxqfb&utm_campaign=post&utm_medium=web
🙂
This is perfect! As a complete newbie to the concept of chakras this is exactly what I was looking for. Thank you so much for answering my question Ashley.
Just found you here and subscribed!
This is very intriguing to me as I used to teach yoga and about the chakras. Are you thinking you'd like practices to connect with the chakras or awareness to how they are operating day to day?
Lol, yes to both questions. I'm a novice when it comes to chakras.
I took a stab at it and here is what I came up with: https://open.substack.com/pub/womenswellbeing/p/the-best-way-to-use-chakras-in-everyday?r=2wxqfb&utm_campaign=post&utm_medium=web
This is right up my alley! I'd love to write this post. Do you want actual practices or are you looking for more practical applications?
Ashley I am very new to the concept of the chakras. So, yes to both practices and practical applications...whatever you want to write about. I write about Ignatian and Celtic Spirituality and I'm fascinated by the crossovers and nuances between traditions. I'm really excited to read your thoughts on the chakras.
On it!
Yay! Can't wait to read it. Thanks, Ashley!
I would read about practices and practical applications Ashley.
I'm following and look forward to reading this too, Ashley.
I also would be interested in reading about this. Thanks Steve!
Here it is! https://open.substack.com/pub/womenswellbeing/p/the-best-way-to-use-chakras-in-everyday?r=2wxqfb&utm_campaign=post&utm_medium=web
TAKING TIME AWAY FROM ENTERTAINMENT/ MEDIA CLEANSE (giving up TV or social media for a set time and how that effected your life and/or your creativity/creative process)
https://kaileydellorusso.substack.com/
@kaileydellorusso
Oooh I like this! I gave up Twitter & Facebook for a very long time, though I remained on IG — not more than 15 mins a day. I may write about this.
I would love to read it! I can’t completely get away from socials because of my business but my husband and I are taking a break from TV at night and its already tough haha but I know it will have some benefits!
I haven't written about this topic yet, but it would be a fun (and probably very eye opening) experiment to do!
I think so too!
Love this! Would love to hear a perspective from someone who has to use social media for their job too, but cuts it out in other ways
Hey Maria! I wrote something like that recently about leaving Instagram for the month of January. I am an artist and so far have depended on Instagram a lot for my business. I am still figuring out how to return to using in the best way (ie needing it for my job but wanting to cut out elements like doom scrolling, etc.) Here's the link in case you're interested! https://whatiswovenin.substack.com/p/a-month-without-instagram
I'm part of a group doing The Artist's Way program with @aliv, and next week is when we'll be doing exactly this. So you may see a few people tackling this subject soon, myself included.
Great timing! Do you think it will be tough for you to take a break from it all?
I think it’s going to be extremely hard. But it’ll be good for me. I hope to find it enriching.
I'm on day three of a social media (instagram, facebook, reddit) cleanse. I'd love to write this up when I'm at least 30 days in. Maybe my first post :)
I'd love to read it if you do!
Hi Kailey! I recently wrote about my month away from Instagram, specifically as a person who depends on it for my businesses and livelihood as an artist. I hope it resonates!
https://whatiswovenin.substack.com/p/a-month-without-instagram
Thank you! Will defiently be reading!
I love this! What would you like to know? Stopped reading papers, no tv, no insta, no fb.
This is how I started my Substack: https://www.storyvoyager.com/p/never-have-i-ever-did-a-100-day-tv
I had a Netflix addiction and gave it up cold turkey. For good.
loved reading about your detox. Fascinating!
Thanks. In the first 15 months I watched a total of 5 films. This year I’m watching the occasional film and series with my husband. But the lure of the TV is pretty much gone for good. Good luck with your detox.
12 STEPS FOR A TODAYS BOOKSTORE ADDICT
https://greatbooksgreatminds.substack.com/podcast
Love this! I would love to write about it.
You’re on! Please email me at greatbooksgreatminds@substack.com
Ooh I love this! Can't wait to read and happy to take a try @Meredith Wilshere if you pass but also happy to read yours if you do!! I feel like my response has vastly changed to this since becoming an author myself. It changed how I look at my book addiction.
Aack! Yes!
What’s a bookstore addict?
Someone who is addicted to bookstores and purchasing books
Hi this is me!
I can do a 12 point guide on this!
OOOH I could perhaps take this one as a former bookseller.
https://kathyellen.substack.com/
I'll tag you when I write it!
ETHICS OF AI IN OUR NON-DIRECT CREATIVE SPACE: Not about AI to write our books/posts, but AI for cover art, AI to narrate books, AI for promotion.
@Vincewetzel "Salted Wetzel with a Side of Mustard."
THE NEUROSCIENCE OF MUSIC. HOW AND WHY CERTAIN TYPES OF MUSIC AFFECT US IN CERTAIN WAYS.
https://www.theunfilteredscribe.com/
Jeff, tell me more. I think about this A LOT! And wote about pieces of it in my book with respect to the neuroscience and physiology of how music amplifies movement for your body and also since I practice psychedelic medicine, I think about this regularly as I choose music for patient journeys! Even if I didn't write about it, I would love to read it!
I write about the changes in my evangelical faith. It be come to realize that some of the “Lord’s moved me at church” commentary might have more to do with certain music, chord progressions and whatnot, than it does divine influence.
Love that concept and I would love to read this also!
As a former Gospel singer, SHELL 🐚 YES! As a vocal coach, I've researched the neuroscience and vagal nerve effects of singing. Churches and sacred sites used sacred geometry to amplify the sound of - singing. I began a post on this, but it's not complete. Could be cross-post if interested.
Jeff, interesting topic. All I know is I read a piece about how an early hit song by Adele was considered close to perfect in capturing listeners’ emotions- the rhythms, falling and rising tonalities, etc.
Someone to write about THE EXPERIENCE OF TALKINGa TO YOUR DOCTOR ABOUT SOMETHING DIFFICULT DURKNG A DOCTORS APPOINTMENT. Would be great as a companion piece for an essay I’m writing about how to talk to your doctor/how doctors think.
@besscatherine
Bessstillman.substack.com “everything is an emergency”
Love this! Bess, tell me more. I can write about this from both perspectives. Being a primary care doctor myself and/or being on the other side as a mother to a dying child and navigating very difficult conversations with doctors and what that brings up, even being a physician already myself!
Wow! This is such a unique perspective. If you are ever interested in doing an interview for Mothers Who Make, I would love to include you. https://heidifiedler.substack.com/t/mothers-who-make
Heidi, that sounds wonderful and generous. I just looked at the amazing topics you have covered there. Do you want to message me or you can always email me tanmeet@tanmeetsethimd.com
Emailing you now! Thank you!
Hi Bess, I've subscribed and very interested to read your piece. I am not a doctor, but my husband and I have had health issues where it's been very difficult to talk to the doctors so that is something I should put on my list to think about and write about someday. I have written a couple of pieces about my husband's health issues, but never thought to discuss how it was to discuss them with the doctors, so thank you for that idea.
I have experience in this but I also wanted to comment that one of my doctor's leads a support group and has taught us how to approach doctor's to get the most out of the visit. He's also shown us the doctor's side of things. I found it really eye opening and empowering to get that view and that he cares enough about his patients to educate them.
What a great idea! I’m hoping to do that en mass with the essay I’m working on. I love that he does this
Yeah it has been great. He told us about the fishbone diagram and how his staff uses that to approach patients and how we could use it as well.
Ah he’s a root cause analysis kind of guy. That’s great. I’ve never had patients use it (tho I’m ER) how does he have y’all use it? Is it for your own thoughts or do you bring in a diagram to the appointment?
So for the diagram he has us use it when we feel out of control of our symptoms. Sorry I should've clarified that was separate from how to talk to doctors. For how to talk to doctors one of the biggest things I took was simply asking, "hey are any of these symptoms correlated to what you deal with in your field and if not is there a part that can help me figure out what's going on? Or someone you can recommend?" That's just one example but there's lots more
Bess your essays are always so informative and beautiful!
Not quite the same thing, but I recently wrote about how I prepare for my son's doctor's appointments. https://heidifiedler.substack.com/p/what-we-pack-for-doctors-appointments
Heidi for some reason I couldn’t reply to your comment so sorry to hijack this one! No email received… x
No problem. It’s a confusing system! What is a good email to send details to?
1. EROTIC MARMADUKE
2. @cansafis || www.cansafis.com
3. the search begins
4. i will find you
5. and then write about it