Enjoy our Blogging Shorts
Brief on Words – Big on Thoughts
Guest Posters– Please keep your post short – blogatini style. (around 500 words) Original posts only. Please, no self-promotion, politics, religion, or personal agenda. No references to other people, publishing companies, or book awards, as we do not have permission to use their names. It must be something helpful to our readers. If you like, read some posts below to get a feel. Thank you for taking the time to share.
Email to Pat – pr@speakuptalkradio.com
The Grind Culture by Pat Rullo
Every morning, we grind our beans and begin again.
But here’s the thing about coffee: it’s not just about the wake-me-up caffeine. It’s about the ritual, the warmth, the pause. A good cup invites us to slow down and savor. What if our culture could do the same? READ MORE
Is the Juice Worth the Squeeze? by Pat Rullo
There’s a moment every author faces—maybe at 2 a.m. while editing a third draft that still doesn’t sing, or after receiving a rejection email that starts with “unfortunately.” The question inevitably hits us. Is all this effort—writing, rewriting, querying, publishing, promoting, and holding your breath for reviews—really worth it? READ MORE
Why Write a Memoir: Speaking up in Memoir by Susan Smith
A friend told me that all memoirs are self-indulgent and self-centered. He grew tired of hearing someone write a story about their life. If anyone has a fascinating life filled with experiences to share, it’s him. The thought of persuading this friend to write a memoir made me ponder:
Why should anyone write a memoir?
Make Your Book Launch Sing!
Launching a book can be an exciting yet challenging endeavor for any author. Engaging readers during a book launch is crucial. Authors must find ways to create excitement. But knowing how to attract and retain an audience can be challenging, until now!
If you are ready to make your book launch unforgettable, look no further. BookSong is a unique service that transforms the essence of your story into a captivating, fully-produced song! READ MORE
Strengthen Your Writing Muscle: Stay on the Emotional Roller Coaster by Jenn Baljko
What happens when you sit down to write? You open your laptop or notebook, and meaningful words fly across the page, right? Sure…that happens in the best of moments.
What else happens? What happens in your body?
The Fear Mirror by Kasey Fallon
As an author, I’m multi-genre, but all of my works have underlying central themes rooted in psychology. In writing horror and psychological thrillers, I love winding the inner tensions of a character or situation tight. Horror is often dismissed as entertainment for people who like to be scared – and sometimes, sure. But it goes much deeper than that for trauma survivors. READ MORE
How Social Media Trends Can Inform Modern Storytelling by Pat Rullo
Historically, storytelling has been confined to traditional media such as books, radio, and film. However, with the ascension of social media, storytelling has undergone a transformation. Today, it is more interactive and participatory, enabling audiences to play a crucial role in narrative development. This shift has created new storytelling formats and styles that reflect real-time cultural conversations and trends. READ MORE
Maximize Holiday Book Sales by Pat Rullo
The holiday season, from late November to the end of December, is often characterized by increased consumer spending as people search for the perfect gifts for their loved ones. This is an ideal time to elevate your marketing efforts and capture the attention of potential readers. Here’s why it’s essential and how to effectively harness the power of the fourth quarter. READ MORE
I Am Dr. Frankenstein: How Writing a Novel Makes You a Mad Scientist by Alex Hugie
At the risk of sounding overly dramatic, I submit that the art of wordsmithing isn’t so different from the gruesome work performed by Mary Shelley’s iconic character, Dr. Victor Frankenstein. READ MORE
Dare to Disrupt Book Marketing by Pat Rullo
I remember reading Jay Conrad Levinson’s “Guerrilla Marketing” book in 1984. It made an impression on my outlook when it comes to marketing. Sometimes, business as usual doesn’t get the job done. Guerrilla marketing is characterized by its creative, cost-effective approach and focus on innovative tactics to engage and disrupt, often in a localized context. READ MORE
When you talk to a child, straight away they tell you their favourite dinosaur, or bug, or whatever it is that has caught their fancy. They love something, and they just want to share that joy with you! It doesn’t matter if your interests are different. READ MORE
Just Start by Marieke Lexmond
Most days, as a writer, I feel like a serious slacker. I’m not one of those people who spends hours on end behind their computer. When I sit down, I write, and if I don’t “feel it,” I do other things—related activities that hopefully spark my imagination. It took me many years before I dared to say, “This is my process.”READ MORE
Can Understanding Your Readers Make You a Better Writer? by Pat Rullo
Understanding why readers are drawn to specific genres not only offers valuable insights into their interests and personality traits but also provides a practical roadmap for adapting your writing. By acknowledging how different genres mirror individual characteristics, you can tailor your writing to better resonate with your audience, thereby enhancing the impact of your work. READ MORE
From Writer to Writer – How to Support Your Fellow Wordsmiths by Pat Rullo
As writers, it is our responsibility to support and uplift our fellow writers. By helping others navigate the often overwhelming world of publishing, we can contribute to their growth and success and, as a bonus, make some wonderful new friends along the way. Here are a few ideas:READ MORE
The Adventurous Writer: Taste the Unconventional Flavors of Rule-Breaking – the Oulipo Movement by Pat Rullo
In this fourth Blogatini post, “The Adventurous Writer: Taste the Unconventional Flavors of Rule-Breaking,” I take a look at the Oulipo Movement. One of the most famous aspects of Oulipo writing is “constrained writing,” where writers impose restrictions on their work. For example, they may limit themselves to writing without using a particular vowel, follow strict rhyme schemes, or use specific mathematical formulas to determine the structure of their writing. READ MORE
The Adventurous Writer: Taste the Unconventional Flavors of Rule-Breaking – Unconventional Wordplay by Pat Rullo
In this third of a series, “The Adventurous Writer: Taste the Unconventional Flavors of Rule-Breaking,” I take a look at wordplay as a literary device that plays with words and their meanings to create clever and humorous effects in writing. While wordplay is a familiar tool writers use to engage and entertain readers, there is also a more unconventional approach to wordplay that involves unique and creative twists in language. READ MORE
The Adventurous Writer: Taste the Unconventional Flavors of Rule-Breaking – The Anti-narrative Technique by Pat Rullo
In this second Blogatini post, “The Adventurous Writer: Taste the Unconventional Flavors of Rule-Breaking,” I discuss an unconventional storytelling approach that intentionally defies traditional narrative conventions. Anti-narrative writing disregards chronological order, linear plot progression, and clear character motivations to disrupt the expected flow of a story.READ MORE
The Adventurous Writer: Taste the Unconventional Flavors of Rule-Breaking – The Cut-up Technique by Pat Rullo
In the world of literature and creative writing, there is a strong emphasis on established rules and conventions. From grammar and sentence structure to plot development and character arcs, there are endless guidelines and norms that writers are expected to follow. However, have you considered writing outside the lines of convention?READ MORE
Be a Dream Weaver by Pat Rullo
As authors, we are drawn to the enchanting realm of storytelling, mesmerized by the transformative abilities of words to construct entire universes, stir deep-seated feelings, and spark boundless flights of fancy. Storytelling is not just a craft but a powerful tool that allows us to connect with readers on a profound level. Read More
Dip Your Pen Into Short Stories by Pat Rullo
Established and emerging authors are bringing short stories back into the spotlight. This resurgence has sparked discussions on its impact on authorship and publishing. READ MORE
How I Opened Doors With Nonfiction Books by Pat Rullo
As an author specializing in healthcare nonfiction, I chose to self-publish my books. This approach allowed me to quickly reach and educate my intended audience on crucial healthcare topics. Using a nonfiction book as a business calling card is a powerful way to establish expertise and visibility in your field. Here are a few ideas that worked for me: READ MORE
Podcasting with Authenticity and Emotional Intelligence by Pat Rullo
I’ve recently been honored to be a guest on three podcasts. (See links at bottom of page) Kind of like always a bridesmaid and never the bride; I’m accustomed to being the host, not the guest. Before I accept any request to be a guest, I listen to several of the host’s previous episodes to get a feel for their approach. The two things I listen for are authenticity and emotional intelligence. Why? READ MORE
How to Procrastinate and Avoid Writing by Pat Rullo
Writing is often seen as a solitary and disciplined profession, requiring deep focus and dedication. However, it cannot be denied that I, and I assume other authors, are uniquely talented when finding alternative activities to engage in rather than writing. Procrastination can sometimes be an ever-present companion as I find ingenious and often amusing ways to put off my work. READ MORE
My Dad, Mixed Plaid, and Why No One Scares Me by Pat Rullo
Thanks to a six-week encounter with the virus du jour, I’ve been forced to vacation from the Blogatini and most other normal daily activities. After twenty years of never being sick! Thank goodness I had just invested in a new organic sheep’s wool pillow and a celestial pink mulberry silk pillowcase. Both got a workout, as I often slept twenty-two hours a day. READ MORE
WOW! Podcast Concepts That Demand Attention by Pat Rullo
As an experienced podcaster, you may find yourself looking for new ways to stand out from the crowd and take your show to the next level. While traditional advice often focuses on audio quality, content creation, and marketing strategies, here are some unusual tips that can help propel your podcast to greater heights. I endorse each of these ideas because I’ve done them all! READ MORE
Pantser vs. Plotter by Gail Grant Park
I read a recent blog post here about this subject from the perspective of a plotter and felt I needed to add my two cents. As a pantser, I don’t know that I have the ability to choose whether to be one or the other. The thought of having a whole story outlined and the basics of each chapter known ahead of time seems way out of my reach. I wouldn’t go so far as to say being a pantser is more “creative” than a plotter, for both need to have the creative juices flowing to accomplish their goals; they just go about it in different ways. READ MORE
Aim for Interiority by Pat Rullo
As a nonfiction healthcare and medical author, I rarely have to bring characters to life. In fact, I don’t think I would be very good at it. Way too impatient! That is why I appreciate others who have a talent for it. As I considered this, the importance of interiority came to mind. Interiority is a crucial element of writing that is often overlooked. It refers to the thought process in a character’s mind as they navigate a situation. The inner monologue reveals the character’s emotions and thoughts and is essential for creating a well-rounded and believable character. READ MORE
Mall Santas and Germy Holiday Hiding Places by Pat Rullo
You’ll probably be hitting the stores soon to prepare for the holidays. But before you do, I want to do my job and share some naughty and not-so-nice germy holiday hiding places. My patient advocacy specialty is infection control and prevention, so I hope you enjoy some of my cross-contamination thoughts. Here are my top 10 in no particular order. READ MORE
The Reluctant Gift by Arthur Byrd
In an age of handheld mind magnets, competing for reading attention can be daunting for authors. People texting each other while sitting at the same table reinforces our fear that no one will be interested in hearing about our books, so we acquiesce rather than mentioning that we’ve just published the novel it took us five years to write. Interrupting the solipsism of strangers takes moxie our self-criticism tends to mislabel as selfishness, but getting noticed in a self-absorbed environment may require the lobbing of a little gift. READ MORE
Relax and Enjoy the Ride by Caroline Crocker
Did you know that 95% of authors earn less than $1,200/year? On average, books sell fewer than 300 copies over their lifetime. The news for books published by the BIG FIVE is not much better. Only 10% of those sell more than 2,000 copies in total! Of course, there are actions an author can take, like promote, promote, promote, but that isn’t the topic of this Blogatini post. READ MORE
Green-Eyed Motivation by Arthur Byrd
After months or maybe even years of heads-down, lonely work, authors often emerge from a finished project with a fresh enthusiasm to engage. All that coffee and editing, those twisted details needing sorting, have often morphed into a black hole swallowing the unspent emotion of reduced social contact. True, the dauntless writer feeds on that internalization, redirecting energy into characters and world-building, but we aren’t alone in the world, even if the publishing gauntlet fosters that impression. READ MORE
What is Your Hero’s Journey? by Konn Lavery
Your story’s main character is crucial to your readers’ enjoyment. They will experience your plot through the protagonist, which is why the hero’s journey must be flushed out. This will give your story far more depth and keep readers hooked on each page. What is the Hero’s Journey? READ MORE
Open Your Big Mouth And Edit! by John Blossom
Anyone who has ever written a novel knows that it can completely mess with your sense of time. You finish your first draft and think, “Wow, I did it. That sure took a long time!” Then after your fifth or sixth rewrite, you realize that completing a first draft is just the beginning. This is not news. All the writing books are very clear on this fact: writing is rewriting, over and over again. What most don’t tell you, however, is that once you have rewritten to your eye’s satisfaction, there is a whole other series of revisions still to come – the ones you do with your mouth. READ MORE
The Belt and Suspenders Approach or What Happens When Two Judges Wildly Disagree? by Pat Rullo
In the world of literature, readers often have differing opinions on the quality and merit of a book. However, it becomes particularly intriguing when two esteemed book award judges, typically considered experts in their field, have drastically opposing views on a book’s scoring. READ MORE
Is Your Creativity Cracked? 20 Ways to Repair the Cracks in Your Writing Process by Pat Rullo
Sometimes, I don’t feel creative. I know this is happening when I start to do random things like checking the weather, looking for grade school classmates online, or deleting old computer files. When I do these kinds of time-wasting things, I usually go outside and walk up and down the riverbank. This always refreshes and brings me back to task. So, with that, I wanted to share some ways to restore your cracked creativity. READ MORE
Does Anyone Read My Work? by Anthony J. Mohr
Sometimes (okay–all the time) when I’m writing, I wonder who reads my work. A high school crush? A former camp counselor? The old crone of an English teacher who gave me a C? I have no idea. Even though I’ve made it into a few lit mags and have a memoir out in the world, I’ve heard nothing from the formers. READ MORE
Clutter: Edit Your Tchotchkes by Pat Rullo
From overflowing closets to jam-packed garages, clutter is often an unwelcome companion. Clutter goes far beyond simply being an aesthetic issue. Research and common sense suggest clutter can significantly impact physical and mental health.READ MORE
How Writing Helped Me Heal (and created a new career path) by Pat Rullo
I remember writing my first patient safety book about a year after my mom’s horrifying hospital and healthcare experiences. What started as a few words here and there to chronicle the mayhem soon became a book, the first nationally syndicated patient safety radio program, and hospital speaking and training events. But most importantly, it became a powerful tool for achieving catharsis and healing. READ MORE
How to Throw Yourself a Book Launch Party guest post by Diana Fedorak
Curious about how to throw a book launch party for yourself? I did it recently with great results. If you haven’t thrown a book launch before, I urge you to give it a try. You deserve recognition for publishing a book, whether it’s your first or fifth book. A book launch party will also help you sell books, so don’t be shy. READ MORE
There is a common belief that if you have an idea, you must be able to write it down and outline it immediately or risk losing it. Gobble it up before someone else does! This is true in some circumstances (and perhaps for those individuals with memory disorders). Apart from that, however, consider this possibility: Was it really a good idea if you could so easily forget it? READ MORE
Do You Feel Anxious When You Submit A Book For Review? guest post by Shobana Gomes
What terrifies me most after publishing my book is to have it submitted for review. I have experienced the worst, and the best reviews on my stories, and sometimes, the bad reviews are aimed at the author in me, not so much at the contents of the book. READ MORE
How Being an Empath Made Me a Better Writer guest post by Jenny Brav
Being an empath has its downsides. I feel like an energetic sponge for everyone’s stuff and have had to work hard to learn to ground and separate my feelings from others. But I still often feel drained by the end of the day. READ MORE
Author Interview Dangers by Pat Rullo
While podcasts and radio provide an excellent platform for authors to connect with their audience and share their work, there are a few potential dangers. Here are a few, along with ideas to keep you safe. READ MORE
What’s Your Hurry? guest post by Cynthia C. Huijgens
There’s a reason Simon and Garfunkel wrote a song with the lyrics ‘slow down you move too fast, you’ve got to make the morning last’. We humans have a tendency to rush not just our mornings, but our entire lives. We have somehow gotten it into our heads that running towards a goal is better than walking, and that fast production is preferred to something slow or handmade. READ MORE
A Valentine to My Editors guest post by Anthony J. Mohr
Here’s a tale with a happy ending, almost. An old friend wrote a short story, submitted it, and found a home. Then the editor did what editors do—made some minor revisions. Dander up, my friend objected to all of them. READ MORE
Music Builds a Better Brain guest post by Marc Arginteanu
Over the years, neurosurgeons have noticed the brains of musicians to be more resilient. Often, musicians recover more quickly and completely from brain surgery, trauma or other adverse occurrences. Perhaps, this is due to musicians’ robust brain circuitry and enhanced neuroplasticity (the ability of brain cells and wiring to grow and change). This phenomenon has been dubbed, “The Mozart Effect.” READ MORE
Confessions of a Romance Novelist: I Write Love Stories and I Wear the Same Sweatpants Every Day guest post by Patricia Leavy
I write love stories. Yup, I’m a proud romance novelist. Romance books aren’t always taken seriously. Let’s face it, as a genre, it’s often trivialized. That’s a shame because if there’s anything we need more of in this world right now it’s love. READ MORE
Outlines Promote Creativity guest post by Erik Christopher Martin
If you’ve frequented online writing spaces, you are likely aware of the Plotters vs. Pantsers debate. Plotters are writers who plan their stories to varying degrees before they draft. Pantsers get an idea and just write full steam ahead, discovering the story as they go. A frequent sentiment from the Pantser side goes like this, “Whatever works for you, but I like to be creative,” implying that outlining a story before drafting is not creative. READ MORE
Debunking Common Myths about Writers by Pat Rullo
When we think of writing life, our mind often conjures images of a solitary figure hunched over a typewriter, surrounded by piles of crumpled paper, coffee mugs, and a cloud of cigarette smoke. This romanticized portrayal has perpetuated numerous misconceptions about the writing profession, leaving the general public with a skewed view of what it truly entails. So today, I decided to look at some of these myths and shed light on the reality behind a writer’s life. READ MORE
The Paradoxical Anxiety of Daily Journaling by Pat Rullo
Journaling has long been recognized as a therapeutic tool for clarifying, expressing emotions, and promoting self-reflection. Many people journal daily to cope with stress, anxiety, and other mental health challenges. However, I find the act of daily journaling itself induces anxiety and becomes an added stressor. READ MORE
Haiku by AI: A New Frontier in Poetry? guest post by Mike Facherty
Carrying on with my fun playing with ChatGPT, I asked it to outline the “rules” of writing haiku and then to generate some haiku based on these “rules.” The outline was not bad, with some appropriate caveats. I wasn’t blown away by the haiku that ChatGPT created. ChatGPT considers that its own haiku are jolly good! Here are the prompts and responses that were used. The critique of each generated haiku seems quite formulaic and predictable. What do you think? READ MORE
Avoid Fuzzy Words guest post by J. Luke Bennecke
When writing novels, it’s important to avoid the use of “fuzzy words” when possible. As an author, you already know the importance of using descriptive language to create vivid images in your reader’s minds. However, sometimes we fall back on “fuzzy words” like: nice, good, uncomfortable, and pretty to describe things. While these words may seem harmless, they can actually weaken the impact of your writing and make it less engaging for the reader. READ MORE
I Pissed Off A.I. by Pat Rullo
Someone named Ima Hooman sent me a Haiku about AI – artificial intelligence and it caused me to wonder – is AI an oxymoron? READ MORE
The Need for Play as Part of the Writing Process guest post by Jeanette Watts
Writers tend to be driven. The fact that we think other people want to hear what we have to say gives us a certain…what do we call it? Arrogance? The fact that we are sharing our stories because we want to help people gives us the opposite at the same time: a sense of humility, an obligation to our fellow human beings. So, it seems fair to say that we writers are complicated. READ MORE
Writers Giving Up Too Soon by Pat Rullo
Writing is a beautiful art form allowing individuals to express and share their thoughts and emotions with the world, but it can be challenging and demanding. It’s not uncommon for aspiring writers to give up their dreams after facing rejection and criticism from publishers or peers. Unfortunately, this act of giving up too soon is all too familiar in the writing community, leading to a loss of talent and potential. READ MORE
Keep Your Podcast Intro and Outro Brief by Pat Rullo
With the Positive Change Podcast Awards in the final judging phase for this round, I am in podcast mode. I have listened to more podcasts this week than most people do in a year. Even though I am not a judge, I listen to every entry – multiple episodes too. So with that, I’d like to discuss the importance of a brief intro, outro, and accompanying music. READ MORE
Don’t Dress Like a Writer, Be a Writer – guest post by Patricia Leavy Ph.D.
Recently, while doing an author interview about my latest novel, a blogger asked me: “What piece of clothing tells the most interesting story about your life?” I’m accustomed to answering random interview questions and often have fun doing so. This one seemed totally disconnected from my life as a writer until I realized my response. READ MORE
An Author Interview is Not About the Book by Pat Rullo
When we think of authors, we often think of their books, plot lines, or writing style. However, an author interview is an opportunity to delve deeper into the person behind the book. Authors are humans with stories to tell, and their stories are often hidden behind their books, which serve as a medium for them to express themselves and share their ideas. READ MORE
What the … guest post by Nikki A. Lamers
Two simple words can be filled in with a variety of options to finish the thought, depending on your mood or your state of mind. Although I’m confident every single one of you could share the most popular, three familiar initials we all know so well, don’t you wish you didn’t have to ask? READ MORE
Riding the Current – guest post by Angela Greenman
My hairstylist is vivacious, witty, and fun to be around. Her energetic laughter bounces off the salon walls as she zips out joke after joke. Recently she surprised me by saying she was a hundred pages into my debut thriller. Turning to face me, she said, “I expected the book to be good, knowing you—but not this good.” READ MORE
Reflections on Writing – guest post by Joni Marie Iraci
The whole process of submission and rejection reminds me of the story of the troll under the bridge who won’t permit passage unless the magic words are spoken. Only the troll has knowledge of the words. READ MORE
Finding Your Authentic Voice by Pat Rullo
As a writer, finding your authentic voice is one of the most important things you can do. Your voice sets you apart from others and makes you unique. Your voice is your style, personality, and way of expressing yourself. Finding your authentic voice as a writer can take time, but is the effort worth it? READ MORE
Three ways to support your teens during exam time…without being “Cringe” – guest post by Dr. Audrey Tang
A recent study by Save My Exams found that over half of 1000 15-18-year-olds surveyed said they felt “overwhelmed by exam season.” One of the most important things anyone can do is validate their right to feel as they do. We are not very good at sitting with anxiety and often rush to try and “make it go away” or to “feel better,” which can also mean us doing the same for others…especially if we don’t like seeing them troubled, so: READ MORE
Writing with the Brushstrokes of an Impressionist Painter – guest post by Douglas J. Lanzo
One of impressionism’s central attractions is that it focuses on the essence of the subject depicted rather than on the details, inviting viewers to incorporate their perceptions and unique visualizations. This results in art patrons becoming active participants in impressionist works as individual imaginations and experiences meld tiny, thick, unconnected brushstrokes into blended and smoothed images within their minds. READ MORE
Meet Marination – Procrastination’s Lesser-Known Cousin by Pat Rullo
In a previous post, author DC Eastman shared his thoughts about procrastination. As a sometimes fellow procrastinator, I pondered his words and wondered – do I procrastinate, or do I marinate? And what are the differences between the two? READ MORE
Good Things Come to Those Who Procrastinate…wait? – guest post by DC Eastman
During my time in the corporate world, I perfected the art of procrastination. As an Olympic Procrastinator, I mastered the skill of doing as little as possible for as long as possible without getting caught. Slithering up the corporate ladder seemed like an impossible feat for a slippery snake like me. So why bother? READ MORE
Try to Remember… – guest post by Jena Books
“Oh, I just thought of a great idea. Gotta remember it!” Is your brain swirling with amazing ideas? Then you must be an author, blogger, podcaster-a creator! We love it when a great idea pops into our minds. But, how do we corral and keep track of our “gems” before they vanish? READ MORE
Audio vs. Video – Listen to Feel or Look to See by Pat Rullo
As a radio host, the success of my shows depends heavily on my ability to quickly establish a rapport with my guests. More than just easing their nerves, creating an intimate connection gives the guest a professional interview they feel proud to share and allows listeners to become a part of that connection. READ MORE
Words of Wisdom That Got It All Wrong – guest post by Teri M. Brown
When it comes to picking a book, readers make decisions based on several factors – the advice of others, who wrote it, the cover, what’s written on the back, and the title. As a new novelist without much of a following, the likelihood that someone would choose my book because I wrote it or on the advice of someone who knew it was coming out is slim. READ MORE
Better Things Come to Those Who Wait – guest post by Brieanna Wilkoff
From around the time I was sixteen years old, I dreamed of being a published children’s book author. I fantasized about winning the Newbery Medal, interviewed myself in the shower, and pictured myself typing away in a home office with walls adorned with picture book art. I worked diligently to improve my craft, read extensively, and learned the business side of writing. When it came time to submit, I believed I had checked all the boxes, and yet I was met with rejection. And more rejection. Workshops, conferences, and critiques…and rejection. READ MORE
Gather Your Support Team – guest post by Marieke Lexmond
Today I would love to shine a light on the importance of a support team. I couldn’t publish these books without the help of some amazing people. It takes time to surround yourself with people who are not afraid to be honest with you and can inspire you simultaneously. READ MORE
Quirky Podcast Listening Habits by Pat Rullo
As podcasting has become increasingly popular, it’s not uncommon for people to develop some quirky listening habits. I’m guilty of at least one of these quirks! Read More
How Wabi-sabi Changed My Life by Pat Rullo
Imagine this – you excitedly go out to your garage to drive off in your brand new car only to find the words HAPPY HAPPY JOY JOY scratched into the shiny black paint. Seriously? Did I pay extra for this positive affirmation? (yes, I know who did it) Or how about the rough dishwasher removal (yes, I know who did it) that chips your oldest and most favorite mug? Or the cat claw scratch on the wooden leg of a not-so-cheap chair? Lots of gnashing of teeth and rough expletives? READ MORE
The Agonizing, Annoying, Yet Amazing Adjective by Pat Rullo
I love a good adjective or three. But sometimes, I find myself using too many. Adjectives add flair, color, and life to our sentences, giving readers a more vivid picture of the ideas we are trying to convey. However, there is a fine line between using enough adjectives to enhance our writing and using too many that ultimately ruin it. READ MORE
Having a ‘Bad Air’ Day? by Pat Rullo
It’s been quite windy in my part of the world lately. And not just for an hour or two, but non-stop for ten to twelve hours. The March winds did not disappoint. I noticed that I felt a bit off during these windy spells. So that caused me to ask – do windy days generate more than dust and debris? Can the wind cause noticeable changes in health? READ MORE
How the Firebird Book Awards Got Its Name by Pat Rullo
The name of the Firebird Book Awards was inspired by the mythical creature of the Firebird, known for its kind and giving nature. READ MORE
Three Pieces of Bad Advice for Writers by Pat Rullo
Always Write in Chronological Order – The More Characters, the Better – Write Every Day, No Matter What READ MORE
A Happier Life – guest post by Jean Janki Samaroo
Is happiness overrated? There are many pursuits that people engage in that bring happiness, but is this happiness satisfying or long-lasting? Have you ever known anyone happy all the time, never had any setbacks along life’s way, and just lived in a peaceful, blissful state? READ MORE
Writing Reviews for Children’s Books – guest post by Deanie Humphrys-Dunne
What if you’re a children’s author who’d like to help fellow writers by submitting reviews? What should you include, and how would you evaluate a book for young readers? Here are some elements I think are essential. READ MORE
Enlisting Podcasters to Resurrect These 50 Extinct Words by Pat Rullo
Well, now – here’s a ‘sonsy’ Blogatini for you! Fifty words and phrases have been identified as being ‘on the cusp of extinction’ by the Dictionary of American Regional English, which has enlisted podcasters to use them. READ MORE
I knew I was a writer … – guest post by Bill Arnott
… around the time I signed my first book. The purchaser, someone I’d known for years, looked at me with an excitement I’d never seen in them prior to the publication of my modest trade paperback. READ MORE
Pen versus Computer by Pat Rullo
For centuries, people have used pens, pencils, and paper as their primary tools for note-taking, journaling, and writing stories. These days, people use computers as their go-to writing tool. While each has advantages and disadvantages, I wonder – is the pen mightier than the computer? READ MORE
Are Podcasters Healthier, Happier, More Productive Humans? by Pat Rullo
Throughout my radio career, I thought about how my message might impact and affect my listeners. But this just hit me today. I never considered how hosting a podcast or radio show could be an essential tool for the mental, emotional, and physical health of the person hosting the podcast. So I wonder – are podcasters healthier, happier, more productive humans? READ MORE
Writing Rituals Revealed by Pat Rullo
Writing can be difficult and sometimes tedious, but certain rituals can help make it easier. While some people are content to sit down and start writing, others have developed unique writing rituals to help them focus and get in the right mindset. From quirky superstitions to specific daily habits, these fascinating writing rituals can help turn writing into a more enjoyable experience. READ MORE
The Benefits of Creativity – guest post by Dana Dargos
I stared at the blank Microsoft page, text cursor flashing. I was so exhausted after a long, hectic day of work that I had zero energy to be productive. My juice was all used up, and now I just wanted to mindlessly stare at a TV screen like a zombie. I didn’t want to utilize a single ounce of brain power; I was too lazy to even form a thought. But despite my fatigue, I knew I’d feel better after writing out my thoughts. READ MORE
Forbidden Fruit by Pat Rullo
I woke up this morning to find an Instagram post from my dear friend Matt Jardine, who shockingly displayed disdain for plastic fruit. How about a trigger warning? It’s a great short piece where he likens clichés to plastic fruit. I agree with his thoughts; however, picking on plastic fruit must be addressed. So here we are – a blogatini about faux fruit. Not in my plan for the day. READ MORE
Inventive Writing Spaces by Pat Rullo
Low on space or want to amp up the intrigue? Having a dedicated space is crucial to creativity and productivity when it comes to writing. From a backyard shed to a cargo trailer, here are some creative writing spaces you can try in your home or yard. READ MORE
Why Laughter is a Very Good (if not the best) Medicine! – guest post by Dr. Audrey Tang
Boosting our positive energy regularly not only can rebalance the brain chemistry positively but makes it more likely that we will continue with whatever healthy goals we have set for ourselves…just one of the many benefits of regular laughter. READ MORE
How to Deal with Rejection by Pat Rullo
Receiving rejection from book publishers can be a discouraging experience for any author. After spending months or even years, perfecting your manuscript, it can be disheartening to receive a rejection letter. But rejection does not have to be the end of your publishing journey. READ MORE
Weird Book Genres by Pat Rullo
Occasionally we receive submissions to the Firebird Book Awards with interesting and unusual genre suggestions. Sometimes I have to look them up. Is this a real thing? So with that in mind, I wanted to share a few. READ MORE
Editors and Publishing – guest post by Bill Arnott
I fired two editors before I even began. One was hurt, the other relieved. The former sent me a gushing email as though we’d broken up after years of marriage rather than the brief intro we’d had over coffee. The latter wished me well in a way that made it clear she knew she’d dodged an awful client. This dawned on me as she skipped away humming Katrina and the Waves. READ MORE
Make a Splash with Giveaways to Promote Your Book Award by Pat Rullo
If you’re an author looking to promote your Firebird book award, giveaways are a great way to drive more attention to your creation. Giveaways can help you reach more potential readers and spread the word about your book award. READ MORE
Don’t Have a Ph.D.? by Pat Rullo
Recently I was approached by an author with a byline in a well-known magazine who wanted to interview an associate and me. I did not initiate the encounter. During the over an hour phone interview, the interviewer oohed and aahed over our responses. READ MORE
Do Book Awards Beget Book Awards? by Pat Rullo
My gut answer is yes. I think it’s human nature to gravitate toward a book with a winning seal on the front cover versus a book without one. I wondered about this for a bit and then had the opportunity to do a little test. READ MORE
Feeling Overwhelmed? – guest post by Beth SKMorris
No doubt we live in traumatic, uneasy times – from our own neighborhoods to planet Earth. True confession, I’m not good at programmed meditation, but there are a few things that help me cope when I’m overwhelmed. READ MORE
Corporate Maturity vs. Life Maturity – guest post by Danilo Takaesu
Five years ago, I was denied a promotion at the multinational corporation where I worked. The feedback I received was hurtful and at the time I thought it was just excuses. READ MORE
A Few Words on Drama and Conflict – guest post by W.D. Kilpack III
I was reading something fantasy author Stephen R. Donaldson (The Chronicles of Thomas Covenant the Unbeliever) wrote about drama. He went into some depth, but the summary goes pretty much like this. READ MORE
How to Prepare for an Author Interview by Pat Rullo
Don’t. The End. If I stop here, it will be the shortest blog post ever. READ MORE
How to Write about Trauma without Traumatizing Yourself – guest post by Alle C. Hall
Most of us grew up with, at the very least, a less-than-nurturing environment or experiences or adult situations that can cause reactions as potentially writer’s block-inducing as the trauma itself. It all comes down to the degree to which you can’t write. And if you are in a position where you can’t write, you can’t write. READ MORE
Marketing for Writers – Guest Post by Bill Arnott
You may not be aware of it, but if you’re a writer, you’re an entrepreneur. Whether you publish traditionally or do it yourself, you own a business, and every business owner needs to know their market, as well as create and promote their brand. READ MORE
Copy Cats? Stay paws-itive and keep up the mew-mentum by Pat Rullo
When I think of copycats, I think of grade school. Denise rolled her socks the same way I rolled mine. Year after year, Sarah bought the same notebook as Roger. Sandy used the same red Sheaffer cartridge pen as Wendy. And when we complained, the teacher always said, “Imitation is the sincerest form of flattery that mediocrity can pay to greatness.” READ MORE
Creativity Is Currency – Guest Post by Bibiana Krall
Allow this sentence to sink in. Think about the beauty and hope connected to art, music, dance, STEAM, and writing. If you are struggling to survive, does creativity, intellectual exploration, or art come into play? READ MORE
Podcasters and the F Word – Go fry asparagus by Pat Rullo
I am not a judge when it comes to our Positive Change Podcast Awards. I leave that job to our judging panel of industry experts. But I do listen to several episodes of every entry. What a fantastic way to learn about any topic imaginable. I am continually impressed and humbled. But nothing causes me to hit the mute button with a head shake than random and frequent interjections of the F-bomb. READ MORE
Authors, Don’t Believe Your Book Reviews – Guest Post by Patricia Leavy
Every author in the world must deal with book reviews. Let’s be honest, it can be brutal. I would love to tell you, “Don’t read your reviews.” Truly, I would. Yet that’s totally unrealistic. READ MORE
Marketing with Kindness – The hair stylist by Pat Rullo
These past few years have been tricky. People are on edge. Uncertainty has a way of changing behavior and not always in a good way. So I decided to double down on what I have always done naturally. And that is to give people my interest. Only a few people do that. READ MORE
Surprise and Delight – The mean Twitter man by Pat Rullo
To piggyback on the previous Marketing With Kindness post, here’s what I do when people are rude to me. Sometimes I receive an unkind response from someone that makes me want to dash off some word vomit. READ MORE
Guest Posters – keep your post short – blogatini style. (500 words or less) Original posts only. Please, no self-promotion, politics, religion, or personal agenda. No references to other people or book awards, as we do not have permission to use their name. It must be something helpful to our readers. If you like, read some posts above to get a feel. Thank you for taking the time to share.
Email to Pat – pr@speakuptalkradio.com
Guest posts do not necessarily reflect the opinions of Speak Up Talk Radio.