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October 16, 2025 57 mins

You’ve probably thought about writing a memoir — that secret urge to turn your mess, your milestones, or your middle-of-the-night realizations into something real. Then the voices start: Who am I to write a book? My story isn’t big enough. I don’t have time. This episode is for every overthinker who’s stopped themselves mid-dream. Because the truth? The story you think is too ordinary might be the one that changes someone’s life.

Fan-favorite Cindy Robinson is back, and she’s living proof that writing a memoir isn’t about perfection — it’s about liberation. Her new book Maladaptive Daydreams is a poetic reflection of what it means to unmask, make peace with your own story, and write without performing. We talk about how writing can heal identity confusion, what happens when you stop writing for approval, and why “ordinary” moments make the most extraordinary connection.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode

The surprising emotional benefits of writing a memoir

How to stop over-editing yourself and write without performing

Why ordinary, honest details connect more than polished perfection

What memoir writing teaches you about identity and healing

How to start your memoir even if you feel unqualified or unsure

Resources Mentioned

Cindy Robinson’s books: Maladaptive Daydreams and Bright Girl Lacks Focus

cindyrobinsonllc.com

Follow Cindy on Instagram: @cindyrobinsonllc

Take the Podcast Personality Quiz: allisonhare.com/personality

Book a free clarity call: allisonhare.com/freecall

Memorable Quotes

“You shouldn’t write a memoir because you think you’re special — you should write one because you’re honest.” — Cindy Robinson (17:31)

“Memoirs aren’t about finishing the arc. They’re about staying real in the middle of it.” — Cindy Robinson (09:02)

“I didn’t write my memoir to prove I’m unique. I wrote it to stop feeling alone.” — Cindy Robinson (17:31)

“You can’t control the response to your art — your job is to create and let the rest go.” — Cindy Robinson (36:01)

Timestamps


04:00 – Cindy’s journey from ADHD diagnosis to autism awareness
14:00 – How to know your story is worth writing
19:00 – The difference between a memoir and autobiography
26:00 – Writing without worrying what people will think
30:00 – The emotional rollercoaster of self-publishing
38:00 – What success actually looks like for a writer
41:00 – The poem “Sprout” and what it reveals about creative safety
47:00 – Why specifics in storytelling matter more than “big arcs”
53:00 – The meaning behind Maladaptive Daydreams

Tips & Takeaways

  • Write for yourself first — audience comes later.
  • Don’t chase “special.” Tell the truth. That’s what connects.
  • The creative act itself is success. The rest is feedback, not reflection.

Rather watch on YouTube? Here you go: hhttps://youtu.be/57a0Jn7tTpU

Be sure to rate, review, and follow this podcast on your player and also, connect with me IRL for more goodness and life-changing stuff.


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