If It Feels Not Normal, It’s Probably Not: Ask Beth & Lisa

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Episode Summary:
In this candid "Ask B&L" episode, Beth and Lisa answer a listener question about agent transparency, diving into the red flags of a rocky publishing relationship. They also unpack book coaching, revising habits, and finding sanity as a writer in uncertain times.

Guest Bio:
No guest this episode – just your favorite duo, Beth McMullen and Lisa Schmid, authors and co-hosts of Writers With Wrinkles.

Key Discussion Points:

• The value of disconnecting: Beth shares her experience of mentally unplugging and how it relates to mindfulness and creativity.
• Book coaching launch: Beth introduces her new professional book coaching services and website BethMcMullenBooks.com, highlighting offerings like manuscript feedback and query letter Quick Wins.
• Listener Q&A: A writer asks if it's normal for an agent to never share a submission list—spoiler: it's not. Beth and Lisa stress the importance of communication, red flag awareness, and using organizations like SCBWI and Authors Guild for support.
• Agent dynamics: The hosts discuss how writers can (and should) advocate for themselves and treat agent relationships as business partnerships.
• Writing advice: The age-old “edit-as-you-go” dilemma resurfaces, with encouragement to push through messy first drafts instead of polishing prematurely.
• Podcast behind-the-scenes: From sunglasses in their logo to sound editing quirks, Beth and Lisa reflect on their origin story and podcast process.
• Podcast love: Lisa shouts out her appearance on Middle Grade Matters with Shannon Ballam—praised for her smooth delivery and sharp interviews. Listen here: Middle Grade Matters (link to be added in show notes).

Conclusion:
From industry tips to emotional honesty, this episode is a warm, funny, and information-packed check-in with Beth and Lisa. Writers like Luna—aspiring, overwhelmed, and determined—will find comfort and guidance in their down-to-earth advice and hard-won experience. Don’t forget to visit WritersWithWrinkles.net to support the show, explore past episodes, and join the writing community.

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