Podcast with Wildfire Magazine: "The Making of a Memoir: Going Behind the Scenes"

Recently, I participated in a podcast with April Stearns, the inspiring founder of Wildfire Magazine (p.s. Forgive my appearance in this video, I had just finished moving my mother, who has dementia, into assisted living. It's always something, isn't it?) where I talk about the process of writing a memoir but more importantly, why finishing the book is just the beginning!

First, I can't speak highly enough about Wildfire. The magazine serves as a beacon of hope and information for women who have been diagnosed with breast cancer. It amplifies the voices and writing of those navigating the difficult journey of fighting cancer while providing educational resources and support. I love the magazine's motto: 'Bridging the gap between a breast cancer diagnosis and “who am I now?” with the power of writing.'

Who am I now? Great question and a hard one to answer after surviving your disease. Writing offers one way to uncover this. During the podcast, I discussed with April my own experience of writing my self-help/memoir as a 19-year survivor. Before I began, I had no experience as a writer and had taken only a few writing courses, most of them many years ago.

Crafting a personal story can be both cathartic and challenging. I highlight the importance of being true to oneself while being vulnerable to readers. This may seem daunting, but I provide actionable recommendations, such as starting by outlining your main themes and messages. This clarity can help guide your writing.

I share many other tips, such as setting aside dedicated writing time each day. For me, consistency was key during the writing process. Whether it's a few minutes each day or longer sessions a couple of times a week, committing to a routine can significantly impact your progress.

It's also vital to seek feedback from trusted individuals. In the podcast, I explain how sharing drafts with close friends and editors helped refine my narrative and gain confidence in my story.

Finally, I discuss the numerous details and considerations that arise after you've finished your story, particularly if you choose to publish your work. Needless to say, it's a lot, and I offer my advice on how to approach this daunting part of the process. Truly, finishing your book is just the beginning.

Take a listen! And then pick up your pen or open your laptop. Because your story IS worth telling.