#55 The Joy of Navigating Nature & Staffordshire Moorlands Walking Festival with Austin Knott

#55 The Joy of Navigating Nature & Staffordshire Moorlands Walking Festival with Austin KnottIn this episode of the Writing with Purpose podcast, I chat with Austin Knott, an outdoor enthusiast, founder of Walk the Moorlands, and facilitator of the annual Staffordshire Moorlands Walking Festival.We dive into the revival of the festival, which runs from Friday, 25 April to Monday, 5 May 2025, the types of walking and outdoor activities available, and how these events can serve as a canvas for community expression and engagement.Austin shares insights into his active lifestyle, which revolves around walking and outdoor navigation. He discusses the growing popularity of outdoor activities, the health benefits of spending time in nature, and his early memories of exploring the outdoors. Austin also provides tips for those looking to embrace nature in their daily lives and delves into the history and revival of the Staffordshire Moorlands Walking Festival as a response to local outdoor activity gaps.In this episode:Transitioning from a desk job to outdoor activities afterretirementSeeing nature exploration as simple as stepping outside your front doorInvolving the community to ensure the success of outdoor eventsEnhancing outdoor experiences by embracing landscape diversityRemembering nature helps shape our appreciation for the outdoorsProviding a supportive community for open-air activities.Outdoor activities are becoming increasingly popular as national and local governments invest in initiatives promoting nature's physical and mental wellbeing health benefits. The Staffordshire Moorlands Walking Festival has grown year on year since 2022, with 2024 seeing over 900 attendees, 50 activities, more than 30 collaborating organisations, and over 70,000 website visitors. Future aspirations for inclusivity and community bonding, the festival serves as a canvas for community expression and engagement.Please connect with Austin and the team to learn more about the events and activities available during the festival. Away from the Staffordshire Moorlands Walking Festival, contact Austin about leisure walks across the Moorlands and navigation training courses.Staffordshire Moorlands Walking FestivalFestival Events PageFacebookInstagramWalk the MoorlandsDiscover Staffordshire MoorlandsFreelancing in the outdoors allows for a flexible and enjoyable career. Austin is also an Associate at Peak Navigation Courses and a National Navigation Award Scheme Course Director.Also mentioned in this podcast:Staffordshire Moorlands District CouncilMyActiveMerlin Bird AppMind Over MountainsBlaze TrailsStaffordshire Wildlife TrustStaffordshire CPREMozaicOutside ArtsStuart MaconiePenny AndersonSoundbites from Austin"I should be retired, but I'm still active.""There are quite a few different strings to my bow, but it'salmost one-dimensional… it all involves the outdoors and walking.""I got a crazy idea to offer walks.""Long walks and Sunday saunters."Podcast Chapters00:00 Introduction to Austin03:01 A Day in the Life of an Outdoor Enthusiast05:02 Navigating the Outdoors: Skills and Experiences07:32 The Growing Popularity of Outdoor Activities09:48 Early Memories of Nature12:37 Tips for Embracing Nature in Daily Life14:38 The Festival: History and Revival21:32 The Birth of the Walking Festival24:34 Growth and Community Engagement27:37 Inclusivity and Accessibility in Events30:05 Mental Health and Nature30:19 Festival Logistics and Participation38:34 Personal Connection to Nature_ _ _A new episode is released every Saturday at 8 am.Please remember to subscribe, share and leave a review. This generous act helps other listeners find the podcast and allows me to continue providing valuable insight and resources.Please connect with me on your preferred platform by ⁠visiting my links pageAccess a free journal plannerJoin my bi-weekly Writing and Nature Connection newsletter

#54 Exploring the Depths of Journal Therapy & Reflective Writing with Kay AdamsIn this episode of the Writing with Purpose podcast, the last in my current journalling conversations, I chat with Kay Adams, a licensed psychotherapist and pioneer in the field of journal therapy for forty years. Kay has written fourteen books on writing and healing, including her New York best-seller, and debut, Journal to the Self.We discuss Kay's love for storytelling from childhood to the evolution of therapeutic writing techniques, and the importance of reflection in the journalling process. Kay introduces the concept of the Journal Ladder, which provides a structured approach to journalling, and emphasises how the practise can be a bridge between your current self and your desired self.In this episode:The benefits of structure, pacing, containment, balance and permissionUsing the ‘reflection write’ technique to harvest insights from journal entriesBalancing the emotional content of journalling with captured momentsJournalling as a gentle way to confront difficult emotions and find new insightsPlanning a reunion tour celebrating 40 years of journal writing workshops.Please connect with Kay and visit her websites to learn more about journalling techniques, events, and training opportunities. Discover a library of resources, including articles, writing prompts, downloadable reports and tips to help your pen start moving.Centre for Journal TherapyTherapeutic Writing InstituteEmail KayDownload Kay's Journal Ladder paperKay refers to journalling as self-directed change through writing that can lead to personal growth. There is no wrong way to journal; it's about personal expression.Also mentioned in this podcast:Tristine RainerJames PennebakerDr Ira ProgoffCarl JungDeborah RossDan SiegelJackee HolderSarah McLachlanLapidusPoetry Therapy AssociationInternational Federation for Biblio Poetry TherapyDr Megan C HayesSoundbites from Kay"I am as passionate about it today as I was 40 yearsago.""I started my first diary when I was 10 years old.""Articulate the wisdom.""Writing as a form of self-directed neuroplasticity.""A poem-a-day practice.""Be an experiment of one."Podcast Chapters00:00 Introduction to Journal Therapy and Kay Adams02:12 Kay's Journey into Journaling and Writing04:58 The Reflection Write: Harvesting Insights08:12 Understanding the Mind: Conscious, Subconscious, andUnconscious11:07 The Evolution of Kay's Writing Career14:49 The Science Behind Expressive Writing19:48 The Journal Ladder: A Structured Approach to Writing26:05 Finding Balance in Journaling Practices31:36 The Power of Self-Directed Change through Writing39:42 Imagining Success Through Journaling43:02 The Journal Ladder: Techniques for All Levels47:54 Nature's Role in Creativity54:22 Future Projects and Aspirations01:00:11 Connecting with the Journaling Community_ _ _A new episode is released every Saturday at 8 am.Please remember to subscribe, share and leave your thoughts as a review. This generous act helps other listeners find the podcast on their chosen platform and allows me to continue providing valuable insight and resources for you to gain from.Please connect with me on your preferred platform by ⁠visiting my links pageAccess a free journal plannerJoin my bi-weekly Writing and Nature Connection newsletter

Where do you find joy and curiosity in life?In this episode of the Writing with Purpose podcast, I chat with Dr Megan C Hayes, a researcher, writer, mentor and relentless optimist.We explore how creative writing can serve as a tool for self-discovery and emotional expression. Megan shares her personal journey, the importance of curiosity in the creative process, and the significance of reconnecting with one's inner child.  Megan has published four books, numerous journal articles and research papers, founded the Joyful School of Writing, an online school of all things creative writing, and developed The Positive Journal®, an approach to personal writing combining the science of positive psychology and the power of the page.In this episode: Using writing as a simple way to incorporate wellbeing into life.Embracing curiosity is a vital strength for creative individuals.Seeing creative writing as a joyful process of reunion with lost parts.The metaphor of journalling as flexible, just like friendships.The blank page can be intimidating but it is also a mirror.Trust in the writing process takes time.The conversation delves into the emotional depth of writing, the challenges posed by external pressures, and the therapeutic aspects of writing, likening it to a flexible friendship that evolves with time and personal growth. Please connect with Megan to follow her work, download a free set of writing tools, enrol in online courses, book a one-to-one session or purchase numerous writing resources. Megan C HayesJoyful School of WritingPositive JournalMegan’s booksInstagramAlso mentioned in this podcast:James PennebakerDr Celia HuntDr Sophie NichollsMartin SeligmanVIA Character StrengthsKatherine May ‘Enchantment’Laurie Lee ‘Cider with Rosie’The Happiness Project by Light Box, BristolThe Natural AcademySoundbites from Megan"It's a real privilege to be a mentor.""We can often surprise ourselves.""We meet those parts of ourselves again.""The blank page is like a mirror.""Trust takes time in any relationship.""I feel most myself in natural spaces.""Nature mirrors how we're feeling inside."Podcast Chapters00:00 Introduction to Writing and Wellbeing02:49 The Journey of Writing and Wellbeing06:04 Exploring Creative Writing and Identity08:48 The Emotional Depth of Writing11:50 Curiosity and Creativity in Writing15:09 Reconnecting with the Inner Child17:52 The Relationship with Self through Writing20:58 Navigating External Pressures and Inner Whispers29:29 The Therapeutic Nature of Writing32:36 Writing as a Flexible Friendship35:53 Overcoming the Blank Page39:39 Trusting the Writing Process43:26 Nature's Influence on Creativity54:12 Connecting with Megan C. Hayes_ _ _A new episode is released every Saturday at 8 am.Please remember to subscribe, share and leave your thoughts as a review. This generous act helps other listeners find the podcast on their chosen platform and allows me to continue providing valuable insight and resources for you to gain from.Please connect with me on your preferred platform by ⁠visiting my links pageAccess a free journal plannerJoin my bi-weekly Writing and Nature Connection newsletter

#52 The Healing Power of Writing & Nature with Writer andCoach, Jackee HolderJust how connected are you to nature? Where is your go-to natural environment?This episode of the Writing with Purpose podcast is part two of a wonderful deep conversation with Jackee Holder, writer, coach, and nature enthusiast whose work bridges the gap between storytelling, self-reflection, and the healing power of the natural world.We explore the profound connection between writing and nature, and how sitting in nature can help us become more present and grateful for the smallest aspects of life.We discuss the benefits of nature (or nurture) journalling, walking for enhancing creativity and share personal stories of times when nature has supported us. In this episode:Meet ‘Sanctuary’ the tree.Increasing creativity and ideation from walking.Finding inspiration and guidance in nature.Discovering personal expression, connection with the environment, and transformative experiences with nature journalling.Gaining valuable life lessons from nature's resilience.Our conversation emphasises the importance of finding answers within ourselves through nature and the resilience of the natural world. Jackee shares some practical journalling tips for those new to the art of journalling and for seasoned journallers.Please connect with Jackee to learn more about her coaching, weekly writing circle, events and The School of Journaling. WebsiteInstagramWomen’s Journaling & Writing CircleJackee is the author of four inspiring non-fiction books, including ‘49 Ways to Write Yourself Well’, ‘Be Your Own Best Life Coach’, and ‘Soul Purpose’. Her illustrated writing maps invite readers to explore the restorative connection between nature, eco-psychology, and creativity through tree-inspired journalling prompts.All Jackee’s books, cards and writing maps can be purchased from her website.Also mentioned in this podcast:Bonnie Smith WhitehouseDaniel L. SchwartzJohn Muir LawsRobin Wall KimmererIsabella TreesSoundbites from Jackee“You have to grow through what we go through.”“One of the biggest blockers to journalling is the blank page.”“The land always has the answer.”“Nature gives us so many lessons.”“What do you need in that space?”“Walking and writing really are companions.”Podcast Chapters00:00 Revisiting Wisdom: A Second Conversation03:46 The Power of Walking and Creativity06:52 Nature Journalling: Connecting with the Environment09:35 Personal Relationships with Nature12:45 Transformative Experiences in Nature15:30 Nature as a Source of Insight18:31 The Role of Nature in Personal Growth21:17 Finding Answers Within Nature24:12 Lessons from Nature's Resilience26:52 Journalling Techniques for Connection29:37 Embracing Creativity in Journalling32:25 Final Thoughts and Reflections _ _ _A new episode is released every Saturday at 8 am.Please remember to subscribe, share and leave your thoughts as a review. This generous act helps other listeners find the podcast on their chosen platform and allows me to continue providing valuable insight and resources for you to gain from.Please connect with me on your preferred platform by ⁠visiting my links pageAccess a free journal plannerJoin my bi-weekly Writing and Nature Connection newsletter

Do you see metaphors in nature as important messages in life?In this episode of the Writing with Purpose podcast, I speak with Jackee Holder, a writer, coach, and nature enthusiast whose work bridges the gap between storytelling, self-reflection, and the healing power of the natural world.Jackee shares her journey from aspiring teacher to leadership coach, and how journalling has always played a significant role over the years.We talk about the importance of writing by hand, and the role of nature in enhancing creativity and wellbeing. Jackee shares various journaling techniques, the science behind writing, and several seminal studies that prove the beneficial outcome for our wellbeing.In this episode:Bridging storytelling, self-reflection, and nature healing for personal growth.Embracing the metaphors of the trees symbolising growth and branching out in life.Boosting memory retention and creativity writing by hand.Journalling for insight, clarity and productivity.Enriching the journalling experience through community support.The discussion covers Jackee’s collection of e-books and free writing tools available to support individuals on their personal and creative journeys. We chat about her free weekly writing and journalling circle and the launch of The School of Journaling in the UK.As a leadership coach and coach trainer, Jackee has facilitated programs in financial services, education, and health sectors, focusing on leadership, resilience, and wellbeing. Her love for nature and writing has led her to spend countless hours journalling while walking through London’s urban green spaces, accompanied by her trusty notebook and pen.Please connect with Jackee to learn more about her coaching, weekly writing circle, events and The School of Journaling. WebsiteInstagramWomen’s Journaling & Writing CircleJackee is the author of four inspiring non-fiction books, including ‘49 Ways to Write Yourself Well’, ‘Be Your Own Best Life Coach’, and ‘Soul Purpose’. Her illustrated writing maps invite readers to explore the restorative connection between nature, eco-psychology, and creativity through tree-inspired journalling prompts.All Jackee’s books, cards and writing maps can be purchased from her website.Also mentioned in this podcast:James PennebakerJulia CameronRyder CarrollProf Robert EmmonsKay Adams    Dorothy Randell GrayDeborah RossHolly Worton    The Great Diary ProjectSoundbites from Jackee“You’re already onto a winner because you’ve gone offline.”“Something happens to their state when they grab a pen.”“I wouldn't write the sky is grey. I would say it's a linen white with speckles.”“Journalling … has the ability to be such a sacred process in our modern world.”“I remember one client said, ‘my God, I’ve worked out what I need to do.’”Podcast Chapters04:03 The Journey to Becoming a Writer and Coach07:13 The Transformative Power of Coaching10:00 The Role of Nature in Personal Growth12:51 Using Metaphors in Coaching15:45 The Impact of Journalling on Self-Reflection19:07 Exploring the Relationship with Nature21:49 The Importance of Presence in Coaching24:33 Journalling Techniques and Practices27:25 The Science Behind Journalling30:25 Gratitude and Its Benefits33:13 Integrating Journalling into Coaching46:32 Exploring Journalling Tools and Techniques49:34 The Importance of Reflection in Journalling58:56 Creating Community Through Journalling01:08:36 Engaging Men in Journalling Practices _ _ _A new episode is released every Saturday at 8 am.Please remember to subscribe, share and leave your thoughts as a review. This generous act helps other listeners find the podcast on their chosen platform and allows me to continue providing valuable insight and resources for you to gain from.Please connect with me on your preferred platform by ⁠visiting my links pageAccess a free journal plannerJoin my bi-weekly Writing and Nature Connection newsletter

Do past traumas or family lines impact your present life? In this episode of the Writing with Purpose podcast, I chat with Emelie Hill Dittmer, a therapeutic writing teacher from Sweden. We discuss the gentle nature of therapeutic writing, the role of metaphors and nature, and the significance of creating safe spaces for authentic writing, especially when dealing with past traumas. Emelie shares her journey and how past family traumas have played a part in shaping her writing life, touching on her grandparents surviving the Holocaust and her father’s bipolar.In this episode: Taking inspiration from International Women's Day to connect with our female role models and ancestors. Using therapeutic writing to help process personal experiences. Enhancing the writing journey with gentle guidance, community and connection. Enriching writing exercises through metaphors and nature. How curiosity fuels the writing process and exploration.We consider the power of silence in writing retreats, allowing for deep reflection. Emelie highlights the impact of international networks and the ongoing journey of therapeutic writing, providing tips for both new and seasoned journallers.Please connect with Emelie to access her online courses, training, and articles, enquire about in-person learning, or hire her for a therapeutic writing workshop.WebsiteFacebookInstagram in SwedishInstagram in EnglishEmelie is certified with the Global writing movement ‘Write Your Self’ and is an International Association for Journal Writing council member. She blends trauma-sensitive and expressive writing approaches from England and the US with her own concepts.Also mentioned in this podcastLynda Monk, founder of the International Association forJournal WritingSandra MarinellaMark Matousek, ‘Writing to Awaken’James PennebakerSusan ZimmermanThe Barcelona Journaling FestivalSoundbites from Emelie "You share if you're ready to share." "You need to be curious and courageous." "Reading is therapeutic for sure." “Writing is like stepping into your inner home.”Podcast Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Therapeutic Writing 06:56 Emelie's Journey into Teaching 10:34 The Role of Personal Experience in Writing 14:52 Developing a Therapeutic Writing Program 17:55 The Power of Visual Prompts in Writing 22:17 Curiosity and Exploration in Journalling 30:54 The Power of Therapeutic Writing 36:46 Childhood Memories and the Role of Writing 45:31 The Impact of Reading on Emotional Wellbeing 51:35 Exploring Personal Narratives and Family History 55:02 Tips for New and Seasoned Journallers 01:00:23 Introduction to Writing and Wellbeing 01:01:00 The Power of Journalling Techniques_ _ _A new episode is released every Saturday at 8 am.Please remember to subscribe, share and leave your thoughts as a review. This generous act helps other listeners find the podcast on their chosen platform and allows me to continue providing valuable insight and resources for you to gain from. Please connect with me on your preferred platform by ⁠visiting my links page Access a free journal planner Join my bi-weekly Writing and Nature Connection newsletter

Do you ever wish you knew yourself better?In this episode of the Writing with Purpose podcast, I chat with Marusha Mozolevskaya, author, journalling guide, intuitive book writing mentor, founder of the Girls Who Write platform, and co-founder of the Barcelona Journaling Festival.In this conversation, we discuss the empowerment created within women's circles and the therapeutic benefits of journalling. Marusha shares her journey from journalism to journalling, highlighting various techniques and personal anecdotes.In this episode: Creating a safe space for raw and honest storytelling The importance of intentional writing ‘One line a day’, an accessible journalling technique How generational stories reveal the evolution of personal experiences Using writing as an emotional outlet during challenging times Accessing creativity, nature, travel, and community to inspire self-explorationPlease connect with Marusha to learn more about her writing retreats, workshops, and online journalling groups. Girls Who Write Community Barcelona Journaling Festival Naked Words Course InstagramThe conversation touches on the significance of capturing moments, deepening relationships through shared journalling, and the need to slow down in a fast-paced world to explore one's authentic self. Soundbites from Marusha "Writing was the peak moment of the day." "We're trying to know ourselves better." "How many people are you today?" "It's priceless to feel seen and heard." "It was a buffet of techniques." "I love talking about journaling."Podcast Chapters00:00 The Journey to Girls Who Write02:53 The Power of Women’s Circles05:49 Journaling as a Therapeutic Tool09:04 The Intersection of Journalism and Journaling11:48 Journaling Techniques for Everyone15:03 Capturing Moments: One Line a Day17:54 Deepening Relationships Through Shared Journaling20:49 The Art of Intentional Writing24:05 Reflections on Generational Stories27:08 Slowing Down in a Fast-Paced World30:03 Exploring the Authentic Self31:29 Exploring Multiple Selves Through Journaling33:11 The Journey of Writing: Personal Stories and Memories37:09 The Importance of Documenting Experiences39:00 Creative Inspirations from Travel and Observation42:09 The Birth of the Barcelona Journaling Festival49:31 Community and Connection in Journaling55:20 The Future of Journaling: Events and Workshops_ _ _A new episode is released every Saturday at 8 am.Please remember to subscribe, share and leave your thoughts as a review. This generous act helps other listeners find the podcast on their chosen platform and allows me to continue providing valuable insight and resources for you to gain from. Please connect with me on your preferred platform by ⁠visiting my links page Access a free journal planner Join my bi-weekly Writing and Nature Connection newsletter

Do you ever wonder what’s going on in the deeper levels of your psyche?In this episode of the Writing with Purpose podcast, I chat with journalling coach Oliver Mann, founder of Unleash Your Ink and the Men Who Write community and co-founder of the Barcelona Journaling Festival.In this conversation, we discuss the transformative power of journalling, the importance of creating safe spaces for people to express their emotions, and the therapeutic benefits of shadow work.In this episode: The demand for deeper journalling experiences Creating journalling communities for emotional expression Embracing awareness as the first step to change How curiosity drives self-exploration, and honest provides real self-discovery How empathy for oneself is crucial in overcoming self-criticismPlease visit Oliver’s website and connect with him on Threads to learn more about this year’s BJF, his Shadow Journalling courses, Alchemy for Growth, Reclaim Your Narrative, and upcoming projects. Unleash Your Ink Website Barcelona Journaling Festival Alchemy for Growth: Reclaim your Narrative ThreadsOliver shares his journey of launching his community and the challenges men face in embracing vulnerability. The conversation delves into the nuances of self-discovery through writing, the significance of curiosity and honesty in the journalling process, and how these practices can lead to profound personal growth.** Take advantage of an exclusive seven day free trial in Oliver's Alchemy for Growth community by clicking here **Also mentioned in this podcast: Nathaniel Branden Debbie Ford, ‘The Secret of the Shadow’ Gloria Kempton Ulrich NeisserSoundbites from Oliver "There's a huge hunger for it." "Curiosity is the driver."" You have to go into that metaphorical cellar." "Honesty is painful."Podcast Chapters00:00 Introduction to Journalling and Community Building01:00 The Birth of Unleash Your Ink03:20 Exploring the Depths of Journalling05:44 Creating a Space for Men in Journalling09:40 The Intersection of Shadow Work and Journalling12:31 The Therapeutic Power of Writing15:55 Understanding Projections and Triggers18:51 Curiosity vs. Wonder in Self-Exploration22:49 The Journey of Self-Discovery Through Journalling26:34 Navigating the Darkness: The Importance of Kindness30:40 The Role of Honesty in Journalling39:47 The Power of Curiosity and Intrinsic Motivation40:51 Externalising Emotions Through Writing43:11 Understanding the Senses of Self45:00 Navigating Emotional Responses and Inner Child Work48:15 The Journey of Self-Awareness and Human Experience52:50 The Role of Empathy in Self-Criticism55:40 Nature's Influence on Creativity and Writing01:01:36 Future Writing Projects and Shadow Journalling01:07:32 Upcoming Events and Community Building_ _ _A new episode is released every Saturday at 8 am.Please remember to subscribe, share and leave your thoughts as a review. This generous act helps other listeners find the podcast on their chosen platform and allows me to continue providing valuable insight and resources for you to gain from. Please connect with me on your preferred platform by ⁠visiting my links page Access afree journal planner Join my bi-weekly Writing and Nature Connectionnewsletter

In this episode of the Writing with Purpose podcast, I chat Andy Mullaney, coach, mentor, professional speaker, and author of ‘Didn't Anyone Ever Tell You? It's All A Game!’In this conversation, we discuss the journey of writing a book and how the debut is nearly always a personal vendetta, first and foremost.Andy is an open book (excuse the pun) about his life experiences, sharing numerous writing tips. He shares his aspirations for the future, emphasising the need to enjoy life's small moments and how they can enrich our existence.In this episode: Feedback is crucial for improving writingCancer can shift one's perspective on lifeCreating a legacy through writingMentorship can guide others in their journeysCommunity engagement enriches personal experiencesNot fearing the blank pageEverything happens for a reasonAndy and I touch on the therapeutic benefits of journalling, and the impact of personal experiences, particularly cancer, on personal perspective. We explore the importance of feedback in the writing process, the legacy that writing can create, and the significance of community engagement.Please connect with Andy on LinkedIn to engage directly and find out more about how you can learn from him, buy his book, or get involved with upcoming projects.LinkedInEmailGoodreads ProfileAndy has a commendable career in management roles within retail, commercial, corporate and private/international private banking, charities, social enterprises and community projects. These days, he offers personal coaching and mentoring, team facilitation for businesses, and is available as a professional speaker.Soundbites from Andy"Cancer will not own me.""Don't edit as you go along.""Smell the roses more."Podcast Chapters00:00 The Therapeutic Nature of Writing26:08 Journaling as a Tool for Reflection28:59 Facing Cancer with a Positive Mindset31:51 The Writing Process: Tips and Insights34:56 Learning from Life Experiences37:43 The Importance of Enjoying the Journey40:50 Future Aspirations and Community Involvement_ _ _A new episode is released every Saturday at 8 am.Please remember to subscribe, share and leave your thoughts as a review. This generous act helps other listeners find the podcast on their chosen platform and allows me to continue providing valuable insight and resources for you to gain from.Please connect with me on your preferred platform by ⁠visiting my links pageAccess afree journal plannerJoin my bi-weekly Writing and Nature Connectionnewsletter

In this episode of the Writing with Purpose podcast, I chat with Shelley Wilson, a multi-genre author of over twenty books, including non-fiction self-help, children’s meditation, romance, planners, and young adult supernatural/ horror/ historical novels. When she’s not writing, Shelley works as a writing mentor, helping women in business get their book ideas out of their heads and down onto the page. We talk about Shelley's journey as a writer, her latest debut romance ‘Floating Solo’, her experiences in various genres, and the inspiration behind her work. Shelley shares insights on the writing process, the importance of personal experiences, and the challenges of the publishing world. In this episode: How personal experiences greatly influence writing and creativity Finding inspiration in everyday life and experiences Trusting your gut in the process and writing for yourself Traditional and self-publishing routes The value of working with a writing mentor Rediscovering creativity later in life.The conversation also touches on the role of a writing mentor and the significance of creativity in writing. Listeners will gain valuable advice on navigating the writing and publishing landscape and tips for aspiring authors.Please connect with Shelley on your preferred social media platform, purchase her books across multiple genres or learn more about writing mentoring. Website Linktr.ee BHC Press Author ProfileAlso mentioned in this podcast was ‘Pumpkin Spice Café’ by Laurie Gilmore.Soundbites from Shelley "Inspiration's everywhere." "Nothing's ever wasted." "I do try to write a book a year."Podcast Chapters00:00 Introduction to Shelley Wilson03:54 The Journey of a Multi-Genre Author06:48 Inspiration from Childhood Reading09:44 The Impact of Social Media on Reading13:02 Transitioning from Fiction to Non-Fiction15:44 Creating Community Through Writing19:02 Finding Inspiration in Everyday Life21:50 Navigating Multiple Writing Ideas24:32 Trusting Your Creative Instincts26:28 Navigating the Writing Process: Plotting vs. Pantsing28:47 Writing for Yourself: The Ideal Reader Avatar31:33 The Therapeutic Benefits of Writing and Journalling33:15 Embracing Creativity: The Journey of Self-Discovery33:40 Traditional vs. Self-Publishing: Weighing the Options38:32 The Publishing Landscape: Overcoming Rejections41:16 Mentorship in Writing: Guiding Aspiring Authors43:34 Future Goals: Balancing Writing and Life_ _ _A new episode is released every Saturday at 8 am.Please remember to subscribe, share and leave your thoughts as a review. This generous act helps other listeners find the podcast on their chosen platform and allows me to continue providing valuable insight and resources for you to gain from. Please connect with me on your preferred platform by ⁠visiting my links page Access a free journal planner Join my bi-weekly Writing and Nature Connection newsletter