Don't Wait to Write - Your Pocket Writing Coach

Amber Petty

A podcast to help you write more, worry less, and share your work with the world.

Hosted by writer Amber Petty (New York Times, Greatist, Bustle, Snooki's blog - jealous?), this show comes in two parts:

Mondays: 5-Minute Writing Exercise (you'll be shocked how much you can do in 5 minutes)
Fridays: Find Out (answers to listener questions, writing advice from years of experience, and ways to actively put your work out there)

Whether you're a freelance writer, a copywriter who wants to do more than figure out new ways to say "Buy Now", or a person who's always wanted to write but never gave it a shot, this show is for you! Each week, you'll write a little, gain a little confidence, and add new tools to your writing tool belt.

A writing tool belt is probably just a pen and a backup charger for your laptop, but you know I mean.

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89 episodes
Updated Jun 19, 2023
Explicit

Episodes89

Newest first

Oct 3, 2022 · 6 min
5-Minute Writing Exercise - Spooky!
Today, we're going with a seasonal theme - Spooky! For 5 minutes, you'll write about anything inspired by the word, mood, or meaning of Spooky. Have a question you'd like answered on the podcast? Email Amber@Amberpetty.com Want to find out about open writing jobs and get even more freelance advice? Sign up for Amber’s free newsletter at Amberpetty.com/signup Did you do the exercise? Take a screenshot or photo of your writing and tag me @ambernpetty on Instagram! Cover Art by Jené Hernandez of Mixology Marketing
Sep 30, 2022 · 8 min
Advice I Hate - Be So Good They Can't Ignore You
Wanna hear something I hate? "Be so good they can't ignore you." In this episode, I say why I hate that, why it sets up a standard that does NOT help you create good work, and of course, how Andrew Lloyd Webber is involved. Have a question you'd like answered on the podcast? Email Amber@Amberpetty.com Want to find out about open writing jobs and get even more freelance advice? Sign up for Amber’s free newsletter at Amberpetty.com/signup Cover Art by Jené Hernandez of Mixology Marketing
Sep 28, 2022 · 8 min
The Courage to Make Cats - A Writing Reframe (and Andrew Lloyd Webber Week Continues)
To continue Andrew Lloyd Webber week, I'm talking about Cats. In this visualization, you'll head to Broadway in faux fur and spandex and visualize the journey of the original cast, the unexpected support, and how the courage to make Cats can help your writing. Have a question you'd like answered on the podcast? Email Amber@Amberpetty.com Want to find out places to pitch your story? Get my guide to 250 Places That Pay Writers at AmberPetty.com/250 - it's free! Did you do the exercise? Take a screenshot or photo of your writing and tag me @ambernpetty on Instagram! Cover Art by Jené Hernandez of Mixology Marketing
Sep 26, 2022 · 7 min
5-Minute Writing Exercise - Angel of Music (RIP Phantom)
Though Phantom of the Opera is finally closing on Broadway after a 35 year run, we'll use it today as inspiration! More accurately, we'll use a little song lyric as a writing prompt for a 5-minute exercise. Have a question you'd like answered on the podcast? Email Amber@Amberpetty.com Want to find out about open writing jobs and get even more freelance advice? Sign up for Amber’s free newsletter at Amberpetty.com/signup Did you do the exercise? Take a screenshot or photo of your writing and tag me @ambernpetty on Instagram! Cover Art by Jené Hernandez of Mixology Marketing
Sep 23, 2022 · 10 min
Writing Possibility and an Invite to Freelance Writing for Creatives (time sensitive)
Over the past year and a half, I've helped over 200 students write more, worry less, and start making money with their work. I'd taken lots of writing classes that focused on craft but ignored what to do after your 57th rewrite was finally complete. So, I made my own class. One that reflects the reality of life as a freelance writer with all the accountability, personalized feedback, and support you need to write, keep writing, and start sending it out into the world. In this episode, I talk about the creation of the class, why it's cool, and talk about why possibilities matter when you sit down to write. If you want to write even more, my course Freelance Writing for Creatives is now open! Sign up ends September 23rd and it's the last live class of the year. To learn more go to: https://amberpetty.com/enroll Or, if you'd like a free sample, come to one of my two free workshops! I'm doing Write Your Pitch in 60 Minutes and Start Writing Now & Get Your Next Byline. To see more and sign up (for both, if you want!) go to: https://www.amberpetty.com/classes Have a question you'd like answered on the podcast? Email Amber@Amberpetty.com Cover Art by Jené Hernandez of Mixology Marketing
Sep 21, 2022 · 9 min
What If It Goes Right - Writing Reframe
If you're at all like me, you have plenty of practice imagining what can go wrong. "They'll hate my pitch!" "They'll think I'm a bad writer!" "They blacklist me from every penning a word again and ban me from the internet to shield the word from my terrible prose!" We've had plenty of practice imagining what can go wrong with writing. In today's meditative reframe, we think about "what if it goes right?" If you want to write even more, my course Freelance Writing for Creatives is now open! Sign up ends September 23rd and it's the last live class of the year. To learn more go to: https://amberpetty.com/enroll Or, if you'd like a free sample, come to one of my two free workshops! I'm doing Write Your Pitch in 60 Minutes and Start Writing Now & Get Your Next Byline. To see more and sign up (for both, if you want!) go to: https://www.amberpetty.com/classes Have a question you'd like answered on the podcast? Email Amber@Amberpetty.com Did you do the exercise? Take a screenshot or photo of your writing and tag me @ambernpetty on Instagram! Cover Art by Jené Hernandez of Mixology Marketing
Sep 19, 2022 · 8 min
5-Minute Writing Exercise - Something Incredible
Incredible things happen all the time, but we tend to dwell on the weird, awkward moments a whole lot more. Today, we're giving incredible things their moment in the sun. If you want to write even more, my course Freelance Writing for Creatives is now open! Sign up ends September 23rd and it's the last live class of the year. To learn more go to: https://amberpetty.com/enroll Or, if you'd like a free sample, come to one of my two free workshops! I'm doing Write Your Pitch in 60 Minutes and Start Writing Now & Get Your Next Byline. To see more and sign up (for both, if you want!) go to: https://www.amberpetty.com/classes Have a question you'd like answered on the podcast? Email Amber@Amberpetty.com Did you do the exercise? Take a screenshot or photo of your writing and tag me @ambernpetty on Instagram! Cover Art by Jené Hernandez of Mixology Marketing
Sep 16, 2022 · 15 min
From Frasier Lists to Full-Time Writer - 3 Wonderful Writing Success Stories
It's easy to think that the only people who get to write for a living are people with big name degrees and fancy friends. Not true! Today, I share 3 amazing success stories from my wonderful students. You'll find how they transformed from imposter syndrome to full-time writers in less than a year. Thank you to Robyn, Michael, and Joan for letting me share their stories. If you want to write even more, come to one of my two free workshops! I'm doing Write Your Pitch in 60 Minutes and Start Writing Now & Get Your Next Byline. To see more and sign up (for both, if you want!) go to: https://www.amberpetty.com/classes Have a question you'd like answered on the podcast? Email Amber@Amberpetty.com Did you do the exercise? Take a screenshot or photo of your writing and tag me @ambernpetty on Instagram! Cover Art by Jené Hernandez of Mixology Marketing
Sep 14, 2022 · 10 min
After 6 Months of Writing - A Writing Visualization
A 5 year plan? I've never successfully imagined where I'd be in 5 years. But, picturing the future can be helpful, so we're taking it a step back. Today, this visualization will guide you through the 6-months-from-now version of you. How you wrote consistently, how you feel, and what you feel compelled to do moving forward. Come take this tiny journey to the future (and see how good and relaxed you feel afterwards!). If you want to write even more, come to one of my two free workshops! I'm doing Write Your Pitch in 60 Minutes and Start Writing Now & Get Your Next Byline. To see more and sign up (for both, if you want!) go to: https://www.amberpetty.com/classes Have a question you'd like answered on the podcast? Email Amber@Amberpetty.com Did you do the exercise? Take a screenshot or photo of your writing and tag me @ambernpetty on Instagram! Cover Art by Jené Hernandez of Mixology Marketing
Sep 12, 2022 · 9 min
5-Minute Writing Exercise - Back to School
It's Back to School season everybody! Even if you haven't been to school in many years (like me), this early September time brings up a lot of feelings and memories. Today, we're going to write about those feelings and memories (or anything else you want to write about) in this 5-Minute exercise. If you want to write even more, come to one of my two free workshops! I'm doing Write Your Pitch in 60 Minutes and Start Writing Now & Get Your Next Byline. To see more and sign up (for both, if you want!) go to: https://www.amberpetty.com/classes Have a question you'd like answered on the podcast? Email Amber@Amberpetty.com Did you do the exercise? Take a screenshot or photo of your writing and tag me @ambernpetty on Instagram! Cover Art by Jené Hernandez of Mixology Marketing
Sep 9, 2022 · 10 min
Editors Aren't Ghosting You
"The editor ghosted me." I hear this a lot and though "ghosted" is just one seemingly innocuous word, it can really screw up your attitude. So today, I talk about why editors aren't ghosting you and a phrase to use instead that makes future pitches easier. If you want to write even more, come to one of my two free workshops! I'm doing Write Your Pitch in 60 Minutes and Start Writing Now & Get Your Next Byline. To see more and sign up (for both, if you want!) go to: https://www.amberpetty.com/classes Have a question you'd like answered on the podcast? Email Amber@Amberpetty.com Cover Art by Jené Hernandez of Mixology Marketing
Sep 7, 2022 · 11 min
A Lesson from 50 Shades of Gray - Why Not You?
In today's reframe, I'm giving you a question: Why not you? We ask ourselves "why should you write this," "why do you deserve this," "why would someone want to hear from you," but we don't often ask the question "why not?" This relaxing reframe will give you lessons on how to combat that inner negativity and use E.L James' tome as inspiration. If you want to write even more, come to one of my two free workshops! I'm doing Write Your Pitch in 60 Minutes and Start Writing Now & Get Your Next Byline. To see more and sign up (for both, if you want!) go to: https://www.amberpetty.com/classes Have a question you'd like answered on the podcast? Email Amber@Amberpetty.com Did you do the exercise? Take a screenshot or photo of your writing and tag me @ambernpetty on Instagram! Cover Art by Jené Hernandez of Mixology Marketing
Sep 5, 2022 · 9 min
5-Minute Writing Exercise: Dumb Holidays
It's Labor Day! Woo? In today's 5-minute exercise, you're going to write about dumb holidays or dumb holiday experiences. This could be anything from having to celebrate National Hot Dog Day at work to a very disappointing New Years Eve where you spent the night writing a play report for theatre history class (perhaps that's just me). You'll get your prompt, 5 minutes to write (with soothing ocean sounds), and some very fun ideas from our holiday prompt. If you want to write even more, come to one of my two free workshops! I'm doing Write Your Pitch in 60 Minutes and Start Writing Now & Get Your Next Byline. To see more and sign up (for both, if you want!) go to: https://www.amberpetty.com/classes Have a question you'd like answered on the podcast? Email Amber@Amberpetty.com Did you do the exercise? Take a screenshot or photo of your writing and tag me @ambernpetty on Instagram! Cover Art by Jené Hernandez of Mixology Marketing
Sep 2, 2022 · 20 min
Your Guide to Dealing with Trolls
As a writer, you will encounter trolls. It's a sad fact of the internet and I wish it wasn't true. In this episode, I share why they aren't as scary as they seem, 3 things to do to reduce the crappiness of trolls, and why trolling is sometimes a good thing. Plus, you'll find out that you don't ever have to go viral to have a writing career and that I'm always here to listen if you ever get negative feedback (and I'll write you a bunch of petty things about whoever insulted you). Have a question you'd like answered on the podcast? Email Amber@Amberpetty.com Want to say F you to trolls and keep writing? Find out where to pitch with my 250 Places That Pay Writers. Get that at AmberPetty.com/250 If someone trolled you and you want to vent (or get support), DM me on Instagram @Ambernpetty Cover Art by Jené Hernandez of Mixology Marketing
Aug 31, 2022 · 11 min
Take a Compliment - Writing Reframe
Today, you're going to take a compliment! Deflecting compliments or undercutting yourself is something I'm an absolute master of. But it's not great! When you can't take a compliment to heart, it sends a little message to yourself that you're not really deserving of praise and good Lord is that not true. In this relaxing reframe, I'm going to give you a bunch of compliments and you'll say thank you. It might feel a little weird, but it helps a lot. Also, this topic was inspired by my own recent hypocrisy, so please know that I'm still working on this just as much as anyone. But maybe you can try to get better right along with me. Have a question you'd like answered on the podcast? Email Amber@Amberpetty.com Want to find out about open writing jobs and get even more freelance advice? Sign up for Amber’s free newsletter at Amberpetty.com/signup Want practice taking a compliment? Email me or DM me @ambernpetty on Instagram and I will give you a compliment! It's fun and who doesn't like hearing nice things from time to time? Cover Art by Jené Hernandez of Mixology Marketing
Aug 29, 2022 · 6 min
5-Minute Writing Exercise - Your First Crush
Today, we're using a simple prompt to bring about fun (or maybe not so fun) memories of your first crush. You'll get the prompt, 5 minutes of soothing ocean sounds while you write, and a little wrap up at the end. If you want to write a list of ideas or the start of a story - great! Do whatever feels good to you, use keep the pen moving (or keys typing) for 5 minutes. I bet you'll be surprised at how much you get done. Have a question you'd like answered on the podcast? Email Amber@Amberpetty.com Want to find out about open writing jobs and get even more freelance advice? Sign up for Amber’s free newsletter at Amberpetty.com/signup Did you do the exercise? Take a screenshot or photo of your writing and tag me @ambernpetty on Instagram! Cover Art by Jené Hernandez of Mixology Marketing
Aug 26, 2022 · 18 min
The Pitch is Back - How Anyone Can Pitch Articles to Editors
Today, it's all about pitching, aka stuff I wish I knew when I started freelance writing. You'll find out how pitches work, why you shouldn't be scared to pitch, and what to put in your pitch email to give your story the best chance of a yes. If you want to make money with your writing, this is the skill to know. Put aside 19 minutes and learn how to get bylines you can brag about. Also, I highly recommend subscribing to Sonia Weiser's Opportunities of the Week for many pitch requests directly from editors. You can subscribe here: https://soniaweiser.wordpress.com/opportunities-of-the-week-newsletter/ Have a question you'd like answered on the podcast? Email Amber@Amberpetty.com If you want to know where to pitch your pitches, get my guide to 250 Places That Pay for Your Writing at AmberPetty.com/250 Cover Art by Jené Hernandez of Mixology Marketing
Aug 24, 2022 · 10 min
Your Seat at the Table - Writing Reframe
Today, we're doing a more traditional visualization (don't worry, references to musical theater and late 90s pop songs will surely make a return). If you feel like you don't belong or that other writers are impossibly far above you, listen to this relaxing visualization to find your seat at the table. Have a question you'd like answered on the podcast? Email Amber@Amberpetty.com Visit AmberPetty.com/signup to get Amber's free writing job newsletter Did you do the exercise? Take a screenshot or photo of your writing and tag me @ambernpetty on Instagram! Cover Art by Jené Hernandez of Mixology Marketing
Aug 22, 2022 · 8 min
Write About Something You Don't Care About - 5-Minute Writing Exercise
In today's 5-Minute Writing Exercise, you're going to focus on something you don't care about. "Why would I do that, what a dumb idea?" you might ask. Well, there's a point to my madness, so just give it a try. Have a question you'd like answered on the podcast? Email Amber@Amberpetty.com Visit AmberPetty.com/signup to get Amber's free writing job newsletter Did you do the exercise? Take a screenshot or photo of your writing and tag me @ambernpetty on Instagram! Cover Art by Jené Hernandez of Mixology Marketing
Aug 19, 2022 · 11 min
Just One Spec - How to Get Started With Freelance Writing
"How do I get started?" is the question I hear most often about freelance writing. So, I'm answering it. Spoiler: It's not as hard as you think. Bonus: If you know what musical theater song I'm referencing in the title (Just One Spec), email me at Amber@AmberPetty.com and the first to get it wins a prize! Or if you have a question you'd like answered on the podcast, also email: Amber@Amberpetty.com Visit AmberPetty.com/signup to get Amber's free writing job newsletter Cover Art by Jené Hernandez of Mixology Marketing

Don't Wait to Write - Your Pocket Writing Coach

5-Minute Writing Exercise - Spooky!

Advice I Hate - Be So Good They Can't Ignore You

The Courage to Make Cats - A Writing Reframe (and Andrew Lloyd Webber Week Continues)

5-Minute Writing Exercise - Angel of Music (RIP Phantom)

Writing Possibility and an Invite to Freelance Writing for Creatives (time sensitive)

What If It Goes Right - Writing Reframe

5-Minute Writing Exercise - Something Incredible

From Frasier Lists to Full-Time Writer - 3 Wonderful Writing Success Stories

After 6 Months of Writing - A Writing Visualization

5-Minute Writing Exercise - Back to School

Editors Aren't Ghosting You

A Lesson from 50 Shades of Gray - Why Not You?

5-Minute Writing Exercise: Dumb Holidays

Your Guide to Dealing with Trolls

Take a Compliment - Writing Reframe

5-Minute Writing Exercise - Your First Crush

The Pitch is Back - How Anyone Can Pitch Articles to Editors

Your Seat at the Table - Writing Reframe

Write About Something You Don't Care About - 5-Minute Writing Exercise

Just One Spec - How to Get Started With Freelance Writing