The Selfish Gift - Go public with your purpose

With Donald Trump set to return to the White House for season 2 of his dystopian presidential freak show, Democrats and liberals like me are bracing for a potentially major blow to the democratic institutions and processes of the United States. Based on the past actions Trump has taken to expand and hold onto power, and also on promises he has made to further consolidate power and weaken or eliminate checks and balances against him, concerned citizens on the left, and also many on the right, see a tyrant in the making in Donald Trump. Can he be stopped before it's too late to save the American experiment?In this episode, I talk with the person who can answer this question perhaps better than anyone. Ira Chaleff is an internationally recognized expert on leadership and political followership studies, a field in which he's considered a pioneer. He has spent decades working in and around Washington in nonpartisan organizations, including over 20 years as director of the Congressional Management Foundation. Ira has led and participated in democracy-strengthening programs in Asia, West Africa, and Eastern Europe. His books The Courageous Follower: Standing Up to and for Our Leaders, and Intelligent Disobedience: Doing Right When What You're Told to Do is Wrong, are used widely in leadership programs and have been translated into multiple languages.Ira Chaleff's latest book is To Stop a Tyrant: The Power of Political Followers to Make or Brake a Toxic Leader, and I am proud to be its publisher under the Wonderwell Press imprint. Ira is a political independent, and in this interview, he struck a much more balanced perspective than I personally hold (or even feel all that comfortable engaging with). But I learned a lot from him and could feel my blood pressure deescalating even as we spoke. Yes, we are at a risky point in our political history, but no, it's not too late to do something about that.In this episode, we explore the definitions of tyranny, autocracy, and toxic leadership, emphasizing the importance of political followers in shaping leadership behavior. Ira introduces the concept of proto-tyrants and the critical window for intervention before a leader consolidates power. Our discussion also covers the types of followers—conformists, colluders, and courageous followers—and the dire consequences of inaction against tyranny. We also talked about the challenges posed by the current information ecosystem and the need for informed citizenry to safeguard democracy. Ira's book and message are for everyone, anywhere on the political spectrum. If you are alarmed or dismayed by the current state of our political climate and feeling powerless, listen in to learn how to effectively wield the power that you really do hold, not necessarily as a member of the opposition, but as a responsible and engaged follower. Historically, almost all democracies descend into tyranny. Ours doesn't have to.Learn more about the book, its author and publisher:To Stop a Tyrant (buy the book)Ira Chaleff (author website)Wonderwell PressMore about Selfish Gift host Maggie Langrick:https://maggielangrick.com/instagram.com/maggielangrick

Amy Low was a recently divorced mom with two teenage kids when she received some of the worst news a person can hear. She had stage four metastatic colon cancer and a large tumor on her liver with a very low chance of long-term survival. Against the odds, Amy has lived five years with her diagnosis, and the experience has changed her. Incredibly, Amy used this time to write her memoir, a beautiful book, The Brave In-Between: Notes From the Last Room. The "last room" refers to Amy's way of thinking about our lives as rooms that we move through. We will all find ourselves in that last room at some point, though most of us won't know we are in it. For Amy, it is an opportunity to find the "mundane miracles" in each day. This is a heart-stretching book in which Amy shows us what it looks like to move with resilience and grace through the most difficult and uncertain times. It's a sacred invitation to delve into the depths of the human condition.Amy and I went into some deep and at times challenging topics. In this interview, she talks about faith and forgiveness, and why she considers herself a "bridge dweller": a person who builds connections with many different types of people from all backgrounds and identities. This episode was recorded in advance of the 2024 election, as the Kamala Harris campaign was in its early days, and she and I were both hopeful of a Democratic win. Amy, who considers herself a liberal Christian, candidly shares her feelings about how American Christianity has changed over the years and how she hopes it might evolve back toward its ideals of love and inclusion.Of course, we also got into some shop talk about the writing process, which in Amy's case was complicated by the progression of her disease. She is a stalwart writer and an inspiration to anyone who wants to tell their story but feels daunted by the task! This is a thought-provoking conversation that will inspire you to find the mundane miracles in your life and the courage to share your story with the world. Find her at:Amy's Substack, Postcards from the Mountain Instagram: @amylow112And find host Maggie Langrick at:Maggie's Substack, The UnderwireWebsite: maggielangrick.comInstagram: @maggielangrick

Writing success comes to those who stick with it, and Diana Raab has stuck with writing for more than sixty years. Over that time she published fourteen books, ranging from poetry to self-help to memoir. How does she do it? Simple: She finds bliss in the act of writing!In fact, 'Writing From Bliss' is the name of one of her most beloved books. In today's episode, Diana shares wisdom from the book to help all writers lean more deeply into bliss. She also tells the fascinating story of her long and prolific writing life, which began in her early childhood, sparked by a family tragedy. Tune in for inspiration and encouragement to go the distance, creatively and emotionally.Diana's latest book is Hummingbird: Messages from My Ancestors: A Memoir with Reflection and Writing Prompts, published by Modern History Press.For more, visit:dianaraab.commaggielangrick.comwonderwell.pressFollow us on Instagram: @maggielangrick@dianaraab

Two books published in one season? That's the kind of summer writer and illustrator Swan Huntley is having. Her novel I Want You More is a sapphic thriller and a rip-roaring beach read that I could not put down. Her other new release, You're Grounded: An Anti Self-Help Book to Calm You the Fuck Down, features her whimsical illustrations and some simple yet sagely guidance to help you cultivate mindfulness.Different as they may seem from each other, Swan explained to me that the books are both "really just me talking to myself". In this fascinating interview, Swan opens up about her writing process, self-revelation and the unconscious, and the differences—and similarities—between writing fiction and nonfiction. The memoir Swan is currently working on will be her seventh published work, but her path to success as a writer was not always smooth. Tune in to hear why her early manuscripts got rejected, the one simple tool that taught her how to write a well-paced book, and how quickly she writes her books now. (Spoiler: it's a matter of weeks, not months.)We covered a lot more in this one-hour conversation, from dysfunctional relationships to the slipperiness of addiction to the question of what to do with that Instagram square.For more, check out:www.swanhuntley.comwww.selfishgiftpodcast.comwww.maggielangrick.comAnd follow:instagram.com/swanhuntleyinstagram.com/maggielangrickinstagram.com/wonderwellpressinstagram.com/selfishgiftpodcast

Every writer experiences doubt—in our abilities, in the worthiness of our creativity, and more. But it doesn't have to stop us in our tracks, according to Amy L. Bernstein, a novelist, award-winning journalist, blogger, and certified book coach. Her forthcoming book Wrangling the Doubt Monster is set to publish in January 2025, and she explores the topic of creative self-doubt in her Substack Doubt Monster.This deep, inspiring conversation delves into the causes of creative doubt and how Amy says we can prevent it from derailing our writing practice. We talked about so much great stuff:• making a late-in-life career pivot into writing• finding the freedom to work with many forms of writing• the emotional sources of self-doubt• the role that culture plays in keeping us creatively stuck• why the hard work of revising can be a rewarding investment in yourself • finding motivation to go the distance with your writingListen in for a confidence injection!For more, check out:https://amywrites.livehttps://wonderwell.press/https://maggielangrick.com/And follow:instagram.com/amylbernsteininstagram.com/maggielangrickinstagram.com/wonderwellpressinstagram.com/selfishgiftpodcastTimestamps: 00:00: Introduction to Amy Bernstein and the Topic of Doubt02:47: The Prevalence of Doubt in Writing and Creativity08:48: The Role of an Accountability Partner in Overcoming Doubt11:54: Challenges Faced by Professionals Transitioning into Writing24:30: Creating the Right Conditions for Creativity29:25: Embracing the Joy of the Creative Process33:31: Giving Yourself Permission to Create34:52: Understanding Your Creative Appetite37:02: Exploring Openly Without Limits38:39: Alleviating Doubt 41:28: The Importance of Rewriting and Revision46:31: How to Persevere with a difficult piece of work49:15: Authenticity in Building Your Platform01:02:21: Choosing Joy and Purpose in Your Creative Journey

Melissa Urban is a truly inspirational human who has dedicated her life to helping people boost their health and happiness.She is the co-founder and CEO of Whole30, a 30-day food elimination and reintroduction program that helps identify hidden food sensitivities and restore a healthy relationship with food and the body. The original Whole30 book (just one of Melissa's seven New York Times bestsellers!) was published in 2015. For 2024 it has been entirely re-imagined and updated with new recipes, rules, and a wider range of accessible and culturally relevant foods.On her Substack XOMU and her Instagram page, Melissa is beloved for her empowering and encouraging messages, and also for her down-to-earth realness and relatability.In this episode, we talked about:• What's new in the updated Whole30 book and why fans of the program should pick it up, even if you already have the original edition• How Melissa maintains her mental health and connects to her spirituality through daily practices • How Whole30 came to be, and what drove her to expand it into a huge lifestyle brand• Her writing practice: where, when, and how often she writes, and why it is like "brain candy" for her• The boundaries she puts around her social media content creation to keep it authentic and fun• Some fun BTS facts about her publishing journey • Her advice for women with a big vision for their livesIf you dream of reaching millions of people with your book and business, do not miss this inspiring conversation!For more, check out:https://whole30.com/https://blog.melissau.com/https://wonderwell.press/https://maggielangrick.com/And follow:instagram.com/melissau instagram.com/maggielangrickinstagram.com/wonderwellpressinstagram.com/selfishgiftpodcast

"If you can read, you can write." - Terri Trespicio, author of Unfollow Your PassionWe don't just have one major passion in life or a single road to success, and fixating on finding yours could be making you miserable and keeping you stuck.  That's the core message in Terri Trespicio's book, Unfollow Your Passion. It's also the topic of her TEDx Talk, which has been viewed more than eight million times. In this episode of The Selfish Gift, Terri tells Maggie the surprising story behind that talk—and her unconventional road to success as an author, speaker, brand consultant, and writing teacher. (And did I mention she's also a poet?)Terri is a licensed instructor of the Gateless Writing Method, developed by Suzanne Kingsbury, which had a huge impact on Terri's writing and personal growth. In this conversation, she describes the Gateless approach to writing, explores the misconception that writing is only for professionals, and emphasizes the power of writing as a tool for self-discovery. She also shares her personal, story-led writing process and the story behind the publication of her book.If you have ever worried that you're spinning your wheels and need encouragement to trust yourself and keep moving forward, listen in.TakeawaysDon't feel pressured to know your purpose or passion; it's okay to try different things and not have it all figured out.Failure is a part of the learning process and should not be feared.Success often comes from a winding career journey and trying different paths.Mindset is important, but it's not everything; skill development and practice are also crucial for success. Expanding one's comfort zone is more important than seeking discomfort.Writing is a tool for self-discovery and personal growth.Craft in writing is essential for effectively sharing one's story or expertise.The Gateless Method is a transformative approach to writing that focuses on craft and removes criticism and judgment.Sharing one's work can be challenging but is a powerful and transformative experience. Know and love your work before seeking feedback from editors or agents.Be flexible in the writing process and trust the inherent qualities of your work.For more, check out:territrespicio.commaggielangrick.comwonderwell.pressAnd follow:instagram.com/ttrespicioinstagram.com/maggielangrickinstagram.com/wonderwellpressinstagram.com/selfishgiftpodcast

It's famously difficult for a first-time, unknown author to get a memoir traditionally published, much less to have traditional publishers get into a bidding war over it. Laura Cathcart Robbins defied all the odds when she burst onto the "quit lit" scene with her brilliant, brave recovery memoir, Stash: My Life in Hiding (Atria/Simon and Schuster, 2023). Stash is the candid account of an affluent, Hollywood wife and mother struggling with addiction, and her battle to get sober even as her marriage is falling apart. It is relatable, inspiring, courageous, and a real page-turner! The book went on to appear three times in the New York Times, was named a "best memoir of the year" by Elle magazine, and earned its author awards, accolades, and national media coverage. In this episode of The Selfish Gift, Laura opens up and tells all about her unconventional—and often "surreal"—meteoric rise as a celebrated author, including: • How the first article she ever published went viral and changed everything • What it's like being one of the only Black authors in the recovery memoir genre—and why we need more memoirs from authors of color • The once-in-a-lifetime opportunity that kickstarted her publishing journey, even though the offer itself wound up being a dead-end • How and why she started her popular podcast, "The Only One in the Room", and what she's learned from her guests • The tough advice she received after her first book proposal was rejected years ago—and why she followed it • How she laid down a track for her author career long before her book was published ...and much more! Tune into this inspiring and revealing conversation and learn how vulnerability, determination, and the love of writing fueled Laura's success. For more, check out: https://lauracathcartrobbins.com/ https://maggielangrick.com https://wonderwell.pressAnd follow: https://www.instagram.com/theonlyoneintheroom/ https://www.instagram.com/lauracathcartrobbins https://www.instagram.com/wonderwellpress https://www.instagram.com/maggielangrick

cw: Sexually explicit materialRena Martine is a former deputy DA turned intimacy coach who helps women discover and express their authentic desires, inside and outside of the bedroom. This week on The Selfish Gift podcast, Rena offers heartfelt guidance on how to safely and courageously explore the outer limits of your sexuality and relationships. From sex parties to ethical non-monogamy to same-sex attraction, Rena reveals all in this explicit conversation. Most importantly, she shares guidance on how to explore your fantasies safely, even when trauma is present. Aside from Rena's liberating message of sexual sovereignty and empowerment, one of the most inspiring aspects of this conversation is Rena's own journey toward a more authentic way of living, loving, and working. If you're considering making a big career change, you'll love Rena's story of how she made the difficult and rewarding decision to leave her straight-laced legal career and retrain as an intimacy coach and first-time entrepreneur. Listen in to prompt your own journey of self-discovery, authenticity, and fulfillment.Learn more at:https://selfishgiftpodcast.comhttps://renamartine.comhttps://maggielangrick.comhttps://wonderwell.pressFollow us on Instagram:@_rena.martine_@maggielangrick @wonderwellpress@selfishgiftpodcast00:00 - Introduction to Rena Martine and her journey02:16 - Defining Women's Intimacy Coaching04:25 - Difference between Sex Therapy and Coaching08:21 - The Connection between Authenticity and Intimacy09:47 - The Personal Importance of Rena's Work11:24 - The Target Audience of the Book13:23 - Embracing Diversity in Women's Intimacy14:44 - Being Open-Minded and Curious18:52 - Accessing Disowned Desires and Fantasies24:39 - The 27 Things List27:40 - Bisexuality and Same-Sex Attraction35:45 - Exploring Personal Preferences and Boundaries36:32 - Understanding What You Crave and What You Don't37:23 - Navigating Differences in Sexual Interests with a Partner38:22 - Uncovering the Underlying Needs Behind Desires39:39 - Making Difficult Relationship Decisions41:20 - Exploring the Impact of Personal Authenticity45:27 - Transitioning from a Legal Career to Intimacy Coaching48:41 - Embracing a Bold and Authentic Identity52:40 - Structuring the Book for Maximum Impact56:20 - Navigating the Publishing Process01:04:17 - The Transformative Power of Writing and Publishing

Time management is not the secret to a productive and rewarding life. Instead, we should be managing our energy, says Simon Alexander Ong, life coach, speaker, and author of Energize: Make the Most of Every Moment.In this episode, Simon explains that energy is the life force that determines how we show up each day and emphasizes the need to prioritize activities based on our energy levels. He also highlights the four dimensions of energy: physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual, and shares personal experiences that led him to focus on energy management and the role of environment in supporting success. Simon's journey as an entrepreneur and public speaker demonstrates the power of aligning work with values and purpose. He shares his journey from speaking to authorship and provides insights on how to accelerate a career in an authentic and powerful way. He also shares some highly creative marketing techniques, such as collaborating with a bartender to create a signature cocktail and hosting a book launch in the metaverse.Takeaways• Managing energy is more important than managing time for productivity and fulfillment.• Energy has four dimensions: physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual.• Creating an empowering environment and surrounding oneself with like-minded individuals can accelerate success.• Aligning work with values and purpose is essential for maintaining high energy levels and fulfillment. Challenge the traditional path and find alternative ways to gain experience and opportunities in your field.• Lean into your unique story and vulnerabilities to connect with others and differentiate yourself.• Embrace unique talking points in your marketing strategy to generate engagement and interest.• Think outside the box and collaborate with individuals from different industries to create innovative marketing campaigns.For more, check out:https://simonalexanderong.comhttps://maggielangrick.comhttps://wonderwell.pressAnd follow:https://instagram.com/simonalexanderohttps://instagram.com/maggielangrickhttps://instagram.com/wonderwellpresshttps://instagram.com/selfishgiftpodcast

One in four Americans is familiar with the term "sober curious", and author Ruby Warrington is the reason why. In this episode of The Selfish Gift, Ruby and host Maggie Langrick discuss the book that sparked the Sober Curious movement, as well as Ruby's new book, Women Without Kids. A common theme tying Ruby's books together is the importance of knowing oneself and being fully present in life, questioning societal expectations that can hinder this process, and embracing a rebellious spirit. Ruby also delves into the global trend of women reconsidering motherhood and the ecological and economic implications of population decline. As longtime book editors, Maggie and Ruby discuss the intersection of personal narrative and prescriptive nonfiction, and what new authors should consider when it comes to choosing a structure for their nonfiction book. Ruby opens up about her writing process, and how she navigates the public life/private life boundary, which can be especially tricky when writing about deeply personal—and possibly controversial—topics.In this episode, you'll learn:• The term Sober Curious coined by Ruby Warrington has sparked a global movement and given language to a mindset of exploring one's relationship with alcohol.• Choosing to be sober curious or child-free is a personal orientation that should be normalized, allowing individuals to make conscious choices about their own lives.• The decline in birth rates globally and the rise of women without kids challenge societal expectations and have ecological and economic implications.• Ruby Warrington's work encourages individuals to know themselves, be present, and question societal messages, embracing a rebellious spirit.• Living with integrity and authenticity means valuing the preciousness of the life you are living and standing firm in your integrity despite societal pressure.• When writing a nonfiction book, it's important to consider your storytelling style and how you like to deliver information.• A good structure is essential for any nonfiction book, regardless of the style.• Ruby Warrington takes a research-heavy approach to writing, collecting articles, research, and ideas before creating a loose structure for her books.For more, check outhttps://www.rubywarrington.com/https://www.the-numinous.com/And followhttps://instagram.com/rubywarringtonhttps://instagram.com/numinous_bookshttps://instagram.com/maggielangrickhttps://instagram.com/selfishgiftpodcasthttps://instagram.com/wonderwellpress#authoradvice #sobercurious #alcoholfree #publishingadvice #nonfiction #purpose #lifepurpose #authenticity #womenwithoutkids #childfree #feminist

Anyone who's ever tried to create something beautiful or important must at times withdraw from everyday life to get the work done, whether that means getting up an hour early every day to write or going on a solo retreat. But how far would you go in pursuit of your art? Whatever your answer, today's guest is about to blow your mind and inspire you to go further than you ever thought possible.Deanne Whalen is an award-winning Canadian filmmaker, photographer, author, and public speaker. In her documentary films and their accompanying books, she specializes in telling intimate stories from extreme locations. For her first film, This Land, she snowmobiled across the high Arctic. Then she embedded herself in the climbing community on Mount Everest for 40 days at base camp. For her latest film, 500 Days in the Wild, Deanne spent six years traversing the entire 24,000 kilometers of Canada's land and water trails from sea to sea to sea. In this episode, you'll learn:All about her incredible adventure—how she navigated, charged her emergency devices, survived several moments of life-threatening danger (bears! storms!), and more. The wisdom traditions that indigenous communities generously shared with her along the way.How mindfully reconnecting with nature made her feel safer and more connected to other human beings, as well.How the journey affected her relationships—and eventually led to finding love on the trail.Her process of adapting 800 hours of footage into a documentary that has gotten distribution with Paramount Plus in Canada and a full Canadian theatrical release, including how she financed everything.For more, check out:500daysinthewild.commaggielangrick.comwonderwell.pressAnd follow:instagram.com/500daysinthewildinstagram.com/diannewhelanphotosinstagram.com/maggielangrickinstagram.com/wonderwellpressinstagram.com/selfishgiftpodcast

CW: drug use, abuse, and assaultSo many of us are moved to write books or create other works of art because of a traumatic life experience that we've suffered through. But when those experiences also carry a stigma, it can be tough to navigate the feelings of shame, self-protection, and privacy issues that come up. How do you free yourself to share your story when you're worried that it might affect your reputation or your career? My guest today knows all about it, and she's here to share her insights.Mary Beth O'Connor is an addiction recovery advocate who's been clean and sober for nearly 30 years. But in her teens and young adulthood, Mary Beth was addicted to methamphetamines, shooting up daily for years. It nearly destroyed her life. Yet after getting clean, she put herself through law school, became a lawyer, and eventually a federal judge. She chronicles her journey and offers hope to others seeking to break free from addiction and level up their lives in her memoir, From Junkie to Judge: One Woman's Triumph Over Trauma and Addiction.In this episode, you'll learn:How writing the book helped restore her self-confidence and self-compassion.How she transformed herself from just a legal writer with no experience in creative writing into an award-winning author. (Hint: Lots of reading, writing classes, and workshop groups were involved!)What her process of getting an agent and publishing deal was like.How she handles criticism from the public.The doors that writing a book can open for you—from media appearances to speaking engagements at conferences and events.For more, check out:junkietojudge.commaggielangrick.comwonderwell.pressAnd follow:twitter.com/MaryBethO_instagram.com/maggielangrickinstagram.com/wonderwellpressinstagram.com/selfishgiftpodcast

This episode is a no-holds-barred, myth-busting conversation with an incredibly smart and successful publishing professional. Richelle Fredson is a book coach, a publishing consultant, and the host of the Bound + Determined podcast. She's been in the industry for close to 20 years, formerly the director of publicity and book marketing for Hay House, and then part of their book acquisitions team. Richelle may not use this moniker to describe herself, but many people call her "the six-figure book coach"—and for good reason. She now runs her own business supporting authors in the proposal and book development process, frequently landing them placements with influential agents and Big Five publishers. Today, we're going to scrape all of her best knowledge to expose the blind spots and correct misperceptions that most first-time authors have when starting their publishing journey.In this episode, you'll learn:How to make smart publishing decisions and navigate the sea of conflicting advice on the internet.How to decide which publishing path is best for you: self-publishing, hybrid, or traditional. (Hint: Whether or not you want to be in bookstores plays a big part in it.)Why putting the work into a professionally developed book plan/proposal is key—even if you're self-publishing.What is important and what is not in terms of author platform—size, composition, etc.What a first-time author can reasonably expect, in terms of bestseller lists, advances, and royalties.For more, check out:richellefredson.commaggielangrick.comwonderwell.pressAnd follow:instagram.com/richellefredsoninstagram.com/maggielangrickinstagram.com/wonderwellpressinstagram.com/selfishgiftpodcast

This episode is a JUICY one—and not just because we're talking about sex! If you want a deeper, more intimate connection with your partner, you should listen to it. If you've been concerned about the rise of anti-feminist spokesmen like Andrew Tate, you should listen to it. And if you want to write a non-fiction book that heals something in our culture—particularly if you're a therapist—you should DEFINITELY listen to it. Dr. Eric Fitzmedrud is a therapist specializing in relationship and sexual issues, specifically in helping men improve their sex lives by learning to regulate their emotions, removing sexual entitlement, and honing their sexual consent and negotiation skills. Eric is a speaker, a trainer of other therapists, and a teacher of graduate courses in psychology. His book is The Better Man: A Guide to Consent, Stronger Relationships, and Hotter Sex, a compassionate and practical approach to a topic that is courageous and challenging. In this episode, you'll learn:Why consent isn't just about fear and safety—about not making harmful mistakes with your partner. It's also the key to some of our greatest pleasures.How the narrow confines of traditional masculinity are harming men and their relationships with others.How patriarchy and capitalism contribute to a sense of entitlement in men—even those who identify as feminists.How Eric overcame his fear of writing the book—how he navigated processing his own errors around consent to honor those he has hurt in the past, and the rigorous vetting process he used to make sure they were okay with their stories being included.His take on book promotion and being a public figure—and how being on social media and doing podcast interviews has made him more confident in his message.For more, check out:drericfitz.commaggielangrick.comwonderwell.pressAnd follow:instagram.com/drericfitzinstagram.com/maggielangrickinstagram.com/wonderwellpressinstagram.com/selfishgiftpodcast

If you are struggling with your to-do list and wondering how you'll ever reach the big goals that matter most to you, whether that's writing a book or starting a business, you are going to love learning from today's guest. Tina Wells is a powerhouse who has been featured everywhere from Fast Company to O, the Oprah Magazine. An entrepreneur since the age of 16, she is now a business strategist, speaker, CEO of Relevant Media, and founder of WNDR LN, a chic collection of travel products sold by Target. She's also the author of 20 (going on 21!) books, including a couple of tween fiction series and most recently, The Elevation Approach: Harness the Power of Work-Life Harmony to Unlock Your Creativity, Cultivate Joy, and Reach Your Biggest Goals. With all those accomplishments under her belt, you'd think Tina was a workaholic who never slept, but guess what? She's not. The key to her success is the same "Elevation Approach" she teaches her clients, students, and readers—a four-part system for building a life that isn't just balanced with work, but in harmony with it. In this episode, you'll learn:How to achieve not just work-life balance, but work-life harmony. Hint: It's not just about adding more of either to balance the scales; it's about participating in a process and not just allowing things to happen to you.How the 4 phases of the Elevation Approach are the keys to doing everything you want to do: preparation, inspiration, recreation, and transformation.Why inclusion and representation are so important in storytelling.Why being honest about what you don't know is actually a crucial strength that enhances your ability to grow.Why discipline is necessary for creativity to flourish.For more, check out:tinawells.commaggielangrick.comwonderwell.pressAnd follow:instagram.com/tinawellsinstagram.com/maggielangrickinstagram.com/wonderwellpressinstagram.com/selfishgiftpodcast

If you yearn to do something big with your life, but you're feeling held back by your circumstances or your background, this episode is for you. Guess what? You are not defined by your struggles or your trauma, and your career path doesn't need to be defined by those things, either. Your inner child is already whispering the desires of your heart. You just need the motivation to pursue them.This week's guest is a master at shifting her clients' mindsets, getting them in touch with their inner child, and motivating them to build the successful, fulfilling, abundant lives of their dreams. Allyson Byrd is a renowned speaker, trainer, money minister, and voice alchemist who helps entrepreneurs step into their highest expression. This conversation is going to give every listener great sensations of possibility, joy, and a deep sense of being understood. You'll learn:Why prioritizing your needs and dreams is NOT selfish.How Allyson's "Spotlight Energetics" methodology can help you live in alignment with your purpose—the spotlight you were born for.How to expand your current mindset and then channel it into transforming your career and your life.How to make a living with your story.How to live a life of abundance while honoring your roots.For more, check out:allysonbyrd.commaggielangrick.comwonderwell.pressAnd follow:instagram.com/iamallysonbyrdinstagram.com/maggielangrickinstagram.com/wonderwellpressinstagram.com/selfishgiftpodcast

If you feel called to do good in the world but you aren't sure what that "good" should look like, or if you yearn for a career that aligns with your purpose but struggle with the idea of pairing business with matters of the soul, you're going to want to listen to this week's legendary guest—one of the leading lights of the spirituality and human potential movement, as well as a multimedia trailblazer. Tami Simon is the founder of Sounds True, one of the preeminent publishing houses in the new thought spirituality world. She is also a public figure and thought leader in her own right. Tami hosts the very popular podcast, Insights at the Edge, which features conversations with spiritual leaders and visionaries, and has been downloaded more than 15 million times. Tami has also curated and edited several multi-author books, including The Self-Acceptance Project, with contributions from some of the world's most revered spiritual leaders.In this episode, you'll learn:What it means to be a spiritual entrepreneur. (Spirituality and business are not mutually exclusive!)How Tami went from being a college drop-out to founding one of the most respected spiritual publishing houses. How to balance rational thought with a sincere openness to divine guidance on the journey to discovering your purpose—and finding the courage to leap into the unknown.How to achieve the optimal level of challenge and stay in your "growth zone."Why relationships and connectivity are the best routes to new business ideas and partnerships.For more, check out:The Inner MBA: innermba.soundstrue.comsoundstrue.commaggielangrick.comwonderwell.pressAnd follow:instagram.com/soundstrueinstagram.com/maggielangrickinstagram.com/wonderwellpressinstagram.com/selfishgiftpodcast

If you are drawn to creative writing as a way to process the events of your life, this episode is for you. Today's guest is the founder of an incredible community called Narrative Healing, a writing program that seeks to release our stories in a way that's both accessible and empowering. After beginning her career in book publishing, Lisa Weinert eventually became a certified yoga instructor with a specialty in trauma-informed restorative yoga—which ultimately led her to combine her professional training with her own trauma experience to create this unique work. Her first book, Narrative Healing: Awaken the Power of Your Story will be released on July 18th, but you're about to get a special preview of the wisdom it has to offer.In this episode, you'll learn:How stories—particularly trauma—can get stuck in your body, and how writing can be a path to emotional release and healing.How storytelling allows us to find joy and connection with our communities.Tips and exercises for getting past writer's block (for instance, how music and physical location can jog your memory).How to choose the right agent and publisher—what questions to ask and what to look for.What to expect from your publishing team after you get a book deal.For more, check out:lisaweinert.commaggielangrick.comwonderwell.pressAnd follow:instagram.com/narrativehealinginstagram.com/maggielangrickinstagram.com/wonderwellpressinstagram.com/selfishgiftpodcast

So many of us feel drawn to writing a memoir as a way to process through a difficult event. Writing is one of the most powerful ways to examine and reshape our internal narratives, and it can be a path to healing, as well as an act of service to others. Today's guest wrote her memoir for just those very reasons. Ann Batchelder is an ordinary mom with a career in arts administration and communications. When her teenage daughter became depressed, Ann's world seemed to fall apart. As she desperately tried to understand her child's bulimia and later drug addiction, Ann turned to writing to cope with her emotions. Her debut memoir, Craving Spring, is about her journey as a traumatized mother and how the Greek myth of Demeter and Persephone helped her to rebuild her relationship with her daughter—and with herself. Ann is a passionate advocate for recognizing women's wisdom and reducing the stigma around depression and addiction. In this episode, you'll learn:How Ann found peace, acceptance, and trust in her child's difficult journey. How to navigate privacy issues when you're writing a story that involves—or even centers—another person.What the publishing process is like for a debut author without a platform.How Ann stayed sane while doing all of the marketing and promotion for her book—and how much she budgeted for it.The powerful ways narrative can help us make sense of our lives and the incredible value of writing your story—even if you don't plan to publish it.For more, check out:annbatchelder.commaggielangrick.comwonderwell.pressAnd follow:instagram.com/annbatchelderinstagram.com/maggielangrickinstagram.com/wonderwellpressinstagram.com/selfishgiftpodcastJoin Wonderwell's "Influencer to Author" virtual publishing workshop featuring Laura on June 15-16 and finally get your book out into the world! Register here: influencertoauthor.com

If you love to sleep until noon and you're allergic to the word initiative, but you still want to live a big, rich life full of fame, fortune and fun, this episode is for you. Laura Belgray may be the world's unlikeliest success story. A self-proclaimed "lazy person," she's a bonafide digital business superstar as the founder of Talking Shrimp, where she makes millions of dollars writing sassy emails to her devoted list of subscribers. She's also the co-creator of The Copy Cure with Marie Forleo, an online course in writing scintillating copy that makes your business sound like an actual human being. And now she's a published author. Laura's first book, Tough Titties, is out June 13th.In this episode, Laura talks about how she crafted a business and a life that is true to who she is. Being a "lazy person" doesn't mean she never works hard, but it does mean saying no to most aspects of hustle culture. Getting up at the crack of dawn? No, thanks. Cramming her calendar with meetings and projects? Hard pass. Instead, Laura focuses on using her authentic voice to connect with readers in a way that naturally aligns with selling her copywriting services and trainings. People buy from Laura because they like Laura. She's brilliant and hilarious and unapologetically herself.In this episode, you'll learn:Why writing in your own voice—even if it's for your business—is the most effective way to connect with readers.The value of untangling your self-worth from how hard you work.How Laura got an agent and a publishing deal.How Laura fought to create the book she actually wanted to write, rather than what her publisher thought she should write.Why saying no to a lot of the things you're "supposed" to do creates space in your life for the things you truly desire.For more, check out:talkingshrimp.commaggielangrick.comwonderwell.pressAnd follow:instagram.com/laurabelgrayinstagram.com/maggielangrickinstagram.com/wonderwellpressinstagram.com/selfishgiftpodcastJoin Wonderwell's "Influencer to Author" virtual publishing workshop featuring Laura Belgray on June 15-16 and finally get your book out into the world! Register here: influencertoauthor.com

If you dream of creating work that leaves a massive mark on our culture and is embraced by millions of people, you're going to love listening to today's guest. Stephanie Savage is a screenwriter, television producer, and co-creator of some of the most iconic TV shows of our time, most famously the smash hit teen drama Gossip Girl, as well as The O.C., the Dynasty reboot, Marvel's Runaways, and Nancy Drew. In this episode, Stephanie tells us all about what it takes to develop a hit TV show, shares her creative process, and maybe even dishes a little gossip herself.Throughout the conversation, Stephanie delves into her journey to success and shares practical advice on overcoming the obstacles that come with developing a successful TV series. She also discusses the importance of collaboration, the value of taking creative risks, and the impact of digital media on the entertainment industry.Key takeaways from this episode include:The importance of finding your unique voice and staying true to your creative vision.The benefits of collaboration and building strong relationships with industry professionals.The value of taking creative risks and pushing the boundaries of what's been done before.The impact of digital media on the entertainment industry.The power of persistence and determination in achieving your goals, even in the face of rejection or setbacks.For more, check out:fakeempire.commaggielangrick.comwonderwell.pressAnd follow:instagram.com/fakeempireteaminstagram.com/maggielangrickinstagram.com/wonderwellpressinstagram.com/selfishgiftpodcast

It seems like everyone has a podcast these days—except you! If you've ever thought about starting one, or even if you're just interested in learning how to build a community around something you love, you'll want to listen to this episode for expert advice on creating impactful content, leveraging personal stories, and networking effectively to grow your audience and connect with like-minded individuals. You'll also learn how to overcome fear and self-doubt, which can be major obstacles in pursuing your purpose.Today's guest is a media trailblazer who has opened the door for countless people to share their gift through podcasting. Jessica Kupferman is one of the earliest female podcasters and a huge, vocal champion of women and nonbinary folks in her field. She's the CEO, cofounder, and host of She Podcasts, as well as the creator of the Sonic Bloom Awards and the She Podcasts Live conference for women and people of marginalized gender who want to raise their podcasting game. In addition to giving her best tips for starting and growing a podcast, Jessica discusses how She Podcasts was founded to support and uplift women in the podcasting industry, and the importance of creating safe spaces for underrepresented voices. Whether you're an aspiring podcaster, an entrepreneur, or simply looking to build a supportive community around your interests, this episode offers practical tips and inspiration to help you take the next step.Key listener takeaways:The importance of creating content that resonates with your audience.How to leverage personal stories to build connections and inspire others.Strategies for networking and collaborating effectively in the online space.Tips for overcoming fear and self-doubt when pursuing your passion.How to build a thriving community that reflects your values and goals, and provides women and marginalized people a voice.For more, check out:shepodcasts.comsonicbloomawards.commaggielangrick.comwonderwell.pressAnd follow:instagram.com/jesskupfermaninstagram.com/shepodcastsinstagram.com/maggielangrickinstagram.com/wonderwellpressinstagram.com/selfishgiftpodcast

This episode is for all the therapists, clinicians, and professors out there who hope to write a popular book for the general public about your field of expertise. How do you make the leap from clinic or classroom to the bestseller lists? And do you have to become a social media influencer in order to pull it off? How do you know if you have anything really new to say, and what if your peers criticize you? Today's guest is here to tell us how she managed through all of that.Dr. Laurie Mintz is an author, therapist, professor, and speaker whose life's work is helping people live more authentic, joyful, and sexually satisfying lives. As a tenured professor at the University of Florida, Laurie teaches the psychology of human sexuality to hundreds of undergrad students each year. She's the author of two popular books, both written with the aim of empowering women sexually: Becoming Cliterate and A Tired Woman's Guide to Passionate Sex. Laurie also writes a popular blog on Psychology Today, and maintains an active social media platform with over 50k Instagram followers, as well as a small private practice working with individuals and couples on general and sexual issues. In this episode, you'll learn:How to transition from being a practitioner or professor into a bestselling author.The surprising correlation between one's sex life and overall happiness—and why talking about it with your therapist is important.The difference between spontaneous and responsive desire.How Laurie ran clinical trials to analyze the efficacy of the advice in her book.How to get the most out of social media—such as community and support—while dealing with the trolls. (Hint: Block, block, block!)For more, check out:drlauriemintz.commaggielangrick.comwonderwell.pressAnd follow:instagram.com/drlauriemintzinstagram.com/maggielangrickinstagram.com/wonderwellpressinstagram.com/selfishgiftpodcast

If you have difficulty deciding what to write about or make content about, you might be having a creative identity crisis. In this special solo episode, host Maggie Langrick shares her insights on how to find "your thing"—not what you think other people would want, but what truly lights up that creative spark in you. It's the key to offering your most authentic, powerful gift to the world. Whether you're a writer, an artist, or some other type of creative, Maggie offers valuable advice on how to build a sustainable and fulfilling career doing what you love. You'll learn:The difference between being a creative professional and an artist.How to tell if the work you're doing isn't actually aligned with who you are.How to overcome self-doubt and creative blocks that can prevent you from expressing yourself fully.The three steps to finding your identity—not just as a creator but also as a human.A fun, impactful thought exercise for finding "your thing," if you're still not sure what it is.For more, check out:maggielangrick.comwonderwell.pressAnd follow:instagram.com/maggielangrickinstagram.com/wonderwellpressinstagram.com/selfishgiftpodcast

If you're thinking of writing a deeply personal memoir about some tough stuff, but you're not sure how much to share, and you're worried about how going public with your story might affect the people closest to you, this episode is for you. Today's guest has written two books focusing on her journey from alcohol dependence to sobriety, and her stories very much deal with how her drinking affected her family. Laura McKowen is the author of the bestselling memoir, We Are the Luckiest: The Surprising Magic of a Sober Life, and Push Off from Here: Nine Essential Truths to Get You Through Sobriety (and Everything Else), releasing March 2023. Laura has written for the New York Times and has been featured in many national media outlets, including the TODAY Show and more. In 2020, she founded The Luckiest Club, a global sobriety support group, and she writes a Substack newsletter called Love Story. In this episode, you'll learn:How writing your story can be a powerful tool for emotional processing and connection with others.How sharing your story, even when it feels vulnerable, can inspire and help others who may be going through similar experiences.The importance of self-care and self-compassion in the writing process—not just to avoid burnout, but also to ensure that you're writing from a place of authenticity and honesty.How writing prompts and exercises can help you to overcome writer's block and spark your creativity.How sharing your unique and valuable story can help you feel seen, heard, and understood.For more, check out:lauramckowen.commaggielangrick.comwonderwell.pressAnd follow:instagram.com/laura_mckoweninstagram.com/maggielangrickinstagram.com/wonderwellpressinstagram.com/selfishgiftpodcast

If you have a growing girl or a young woman in your life, you know the intense pressure she faces to be pretty, to be popular, to be perfect. And sometimes she may feel like her contentment is less important than living up to the expectations and images that she sees on social media. My guest today is dedicated to putting the power back in girls' hands and helping them to develop the skills and confidence that will set them up for a fulfilling life—skills that you can also apply to your own life as an author, a creative, and a human in this world. Lindsay Sealey is the CEO and founder of Bold New Girls and Brave New Boys. She's also the author of three books: Growing Strong Girls; Rooted, Resilient, and Ready; and Made for More. In this episode, you'll learn:Why authenticity is the key not just to building strong relationships, but also to your success as an author.Lindsay's strategies for author self-care: taking breaks, setting boundaries, and practicing mindfulness to maintain well-being.How challenging experiences can cultivate resilience and adaptability. (This includes facing rejection from agents and publishers!)Why building a strong support network is crucial for maintaining well-being and productivity. (Being part of a supportive writing community can help you get through that manuscript.)How to stay focused on your passions and purpose for a more fulfilling, meaningful life.For more, check out:lindsaysealey.commaggielangrick.comwonderwell.pressAnd follow:instagram.com/boldnewgirlsinstagram.com/maggielangrickinstagram.com/wonderwellpressinstagram.com/selfishgiftpodcast

If you ever wanted a truly transparent look into the publishing industry, today's guest delivers just that. Brooke Warner is a veteran publishing professional who is involved in books, writing, and publishing from just about every angle. A former executive editor at Seal Press, she's now the publisher of She Writes Press and Spark Press, as well as an in-demand book coach and publishing consultant. Brooke is also a TEDx speaker, a columnist for Publishers Weekly, and co-host of the Write-minded podcast with Grant Faulkner. Now, if that doesn't already sound like a lot to you, then consider that Brooke is also the author of several books about writing and publishing, and is currently working on her own memoir. She knows the industry inside and out, and in this episode, she generously shares a wealth of realistic advice about what it takes to write, publish, and sell your book. You'll learn:What makes hybrid publishing different from traditional or self-publishing.Whether distribution into brick-and-mortar bookstores is important. (Hint: Genre matters.)Tips on writing a memoir—including how to determine whether yours is actually something that should be published.Why it's of utmost importance not to rush through writing your book.How an accountability partner can keep your writing project on track.What realistic first-year book sales numbers actually look like—especially if you're a new author with a small platform. (This will probably be a big reality check for a lot of listeners.) For more, check out:brookewarner.commaggielangrick.comwonderwell.pressAnd follow:instagram.com/brooke_warnerinstagram.com/maggielangrickinstagram.com/wonderwellpressinstagram.com/selfishgiftpodcast

A lot of people who write a nonfiction book start out very focused on the information that they're sharing and what the reader will get out of it—and that's great. But what they might not know at the outset is that the act of writing itself can open up totally new worlds of opportunity for us as creative beings, and even bring us closer to ourselves and help us heal our own wounds. Today's guest describes herself as a "closeted writer of personal essays" since adolescence. It wasn't until she set out to write a how-to book at the age of forty that she found the courage to share her creative side with the world. And now there's no stopping her. Laura Khoudari is a pioneer in trauma-informed strength training and the author of Lifting Heavy Things: Healing Trauma One Rep at a Time. Her work has been featured in the New York Times, NPR, Buzzfeed, Upworthy, Elephant Journal, and many other outlets. In this episode, you'll learn:Why the “no pain, no gain” gym-mindset isn't helpful when working through trauma in your body or your writing—and why it's important to go slow.How to listen to your body and identify your feelings. (Is it anxiety or excitement?)Why opening yourself up to feedback is critical to writing a good book.How to incorporate trauma-informed mindfulness into your writing practice. How to set boundaries around your privacy as an author. (You might not necessarily need to “spill your guts" to deliver your message.)For more, check out:laurakhoudari.commaggielangrick.comwonderwell.pressAnd follow:instagram.com/laurakhoudariinstagram.com/maggielangrickinstagram.com/wonderwellpressinstagram.com/selfishgiftpodcast

Have you heard the saying, "The book is the new business card?"—just something you can crank out and put on Amazon in a matter of days, in order to boost your visibility? Well, today's guest is here to explain why that is absolutely the wrong reason to publish a book—and the wrong way to do it. By cutting corners, investing as little as possible, and thinking only of yourself rather than your reader, you'd essentially be creating a throwaway marketing piece (which is exactly the fate of most business cards!) The function of any worthwhile nonfiction book is to change lives, and AJ Harper is on a mission to do just that.As a developmental editor, ghostwriter, and publishing strategist, AJ has worked with hundreds of authors, from newbies and first timers to New York Times bestsellers like Mike Michalowicz, author of Profit First. She is also the author of her own nonfiction book, Write a Must-Read, which teaches you how to conceptualize and write a nonfiction book that will actually make people want to buy and read it. In this episode, you'll learn:The hard truth about whether "everyone has a book in them."AJ's proven framework for crafting a life-changing book. (“A book is not about something. A book is for someone.”)How to identify your ideal reader. (It's not just about demographics.)How to determine which parts of your life belong in your memoir.The difference between a book's core message and its promise—and why clearly identifying those two things will set you up for success.For more, check out:ajharper.commaggielangrick.comwonderwell.pressAnd follow:instagram.com/maggielangrickinstagram.com/wonderwellpressinstagram.com/selfishgiftpodcast

Maybe you've had a personal experience that affected you profoundly, and you want to write about it—both for your own benefit and to help readers with your insights—but you're worried about upsetting the other people in your story, especially family members. How do you tackle it? Do you need their permission? Should you change their names, or maybe change your own name and write under a pseudonym? What happens if they disown you or try to sue you? Laura Davis has been grappling with this issue and using material from her own life in her books for more than forty years. And last year, she took it to a new level with the publication of The Burning Light of Two Stars, a deeply personal award-winning memoir about her fraught relationship with her mother. Laura is also the author of the international million-copy bestseller, The Courage to Heal, as well as four other groundbreaking books. In addition to writing, Laura is passionate about teaching others how to find their voices, tell their stories, and hone their craft, which she does through workshops, classes, and retreats. In this episode, you'll learn:How to navigate the delicate balance between telling your truth and honoring the other people in your story.How to dig deep into your memories to tell a story that is helpful and moving for the reader.How to prioritize the practice of writing so that your book actually gets done.Several clever writing prompts that are sure to help you break through writer's block.Practical marketing advice from an established author.For more, check out:lauradavis.netlauradavis.net/chaptersmaggielangrick.comwonderwell.pressAnd follow:instagram.com/laurasaridavisinstagram.com/maggielangrickinstagram.com/wonderwellpressinstagram.com/selfishgiftpodcast

Welcome to season 2! In this solo episode, host Maggie Langrick takes a deep dive into what The Selfish Gift actually means and explores what she calls "benevolent selfishness": The idea that the contribution we are best suited to give to the world is also the thing that can bring us the most joy and material rewards, as well. If you've consistently put yourself in the backseat of your life, if you've been making excuses to avoid investing in your dreams, and if you've been too afraid of criticism to put your work out there, listen in for some liberation. You'll learn:Why selflessness isn't all that virtuous—and how it can be damaging to both you and your relationships.Why doing what you love can actually be your greatest service to humanity.Why women often fall into the trap of abandoning themselves and their dreams due to their fear of "seeming selfish."Why selfishness isn't actually antithetical to generosity or altruism.The key question to ask yourself in order to figure out what your true purpose is.For more, check out:maggielangrick.comwonderwell.pressAnd follow:instagram.com/maggielangrickinstagram.com/wonderwellpressinstagram.com/selfishgiftpodcast

This episode is for all the therapists, clinicians, and professors out there who hope to write a popular book for the general public about your field of expertise. How do you make the leap from clinic or classroom to the bestseller lists? And do you have to become a social media influencer in order to pull it off? How do you know if you have anything really new to say, and what if your peers criticize you? Today's guest is here to tell us how she managed through all of that.Dr. Laurie Mintz is an author, therapist, professor, and speaker whose life's work is helping people live more authentic, joyful, and sexually satisfying lives. As a tenured professor at the University of Florida, Laurie teaches the psychology of human sexuality to hundreds of undergrad students each year. She's the author of two popular books, both written with the aim of empowering women sexually: Becoming Cliterate and A Tired Woman's Guide to Passionate Sex. Laurie also writes a popular blog on Psychology Today, and maintains an active social media platform with over 50k Instagram followers, as well as a small private practice working with individuals and couples on general and sexual issues. In this episode, you'll learn:How to transition from being a practitioner or professor into a bestselling author.The surprising correlation between one's sex life and overall happiness—and why talking about it with your therapist is important.The difference between spontaneous and responsive desire.How Laurie ran clinical trials to analyze the efficacy of the advice in her book.How to get the most out of social media—such as community and support—while dealing with the trolls. (Hint: Block, block, block!)For more, check out:drlauriemintz.commaggielangrick.comwonderwell.pressAnd follow:instagram.com/drlauriemintzinstagram.com/maggielangrickinstagram.com/wonderwellpressinstagram.com/selfishgiftpodcast

If you're one of those people who's fortunate enough to have connected with your life purpose, chances are that it came to you through your own struggles. This is the case for many of us on the path of conscious living. We're faced with a set of challenges—perhaps related to physical health, relationships, or the search for meaning—and through contending with and mastering these challenges, we naturally want to share what we've learned with others about how to be a happier, healthier, more fulfilled human. Today's guest is on a journey like this, and out of that impetus, she's created an amazing community and a set of programs through which she shares her knowledge and insight, and also provides a platform for some of the world's preeminent thought leaders to spread their message.Julie Reisler is the host of the global podcast, The You-est You, where she has interviewed spiritual luminaries like Martha Beck, Neale Donald Walsch, and Tara Brach, as well as inspiring entrepreneurs like Amy Porterfield, Marie Forleo, Jenna Kutcher, and many others. Julie is also the founder of the Life Designer Coach Academy, where she certifies transformation coaches from all over the world. She's a public speaker, a course creator, and the author of Get a PhD in You. In this episode, you'll learn:How to channel your struggles and challenges into growth.How to listen to your higher voice when it's telling you to start a new project or practice.Why having the third-party perspective of a coach and/or therapist is so essential to gaining clarity in your purpose.How to prevent the fear of public criticism from holding you back.Practical advice on what it takes to start and produce your own podcast.For more, check out:juliereisler.commaggielangrick.comwonderwell.pressAnd follow:instagram.com/juliereislerinstagram.com/maggielangrickinstagram.com/wonderwellpressinstagram.com/selfishgiftpodcast

Life is always coming at us fast, and that feels especially true when you decide to write a book. You take on this huge, ambitious commitment, and suddenly a home improvement project goes sideways, a family member has a health issue, work-demands become crushing, or some other huge interruption comes along and threatens to pull you off your path. Today's guest experienced all of that and more, and is here to tell us how she got through it and managed to finish and launch her book.Kimberlee Davis is a certified financial analyst and the author of The Fiscal Feminist: A Financial Wake-Up Call for Women. Currently Managing Director and Partner at The Bahnsen Group, Kimberlee has more than 25 years of finance, legal, and corporate experience. Her mission and personal passion is to help women of all ages and wealth levels achieve solid financial footing in both calm and turbulent times. Through her podcast, her online platform, and Instagram account—all also called The Fiscal Feminist—Kimberlee empowers and educates women to embrace their responsibility to themselves and make sound financial decisions that will create peace, freedom, and stability in their lives. In this episode, you'll learn:Why women need a “financial wake-up call.”Why taking control of your finances is one of the most important forms of self-care.The five steps to achieving financial freedom.How to balance building an author platform and writing a book while working a full-time job.How to stay committed to finishing your book when the day-to-day stress of life gets overwhelming.For more, check out:fiscalfeminist.commaggielangrick.comwonderwell.pressAnd follow:instagram.com/thefiscalfeministinstagram.com/maggielangrickinstagram.com/wonderwellpressinstagram.com/selfishgiftpodcast

For those of us who are lucky enough to have experienced a big, transformational change in our personal or professional lives, it's natural to want to share those insights with others. Many of us may have even considered developing a career as a coach or a guide to help people experience that same kind of transformation in their lives, but few have the courage or tenacity to actually follow through on that vision. Today's guest, Shira Miller—a two-time TEDx speaker and professional coach—has done exactly that.After going from financial ruin to prosperity, chronic health challenges to wellness, obesity to healthy weight, divorce to lasting love, and an unfulfilling career to a purpose-driven life, Shira launched a three-year journey of interviewing 100+ people who have also been “stuck” but are now living the lives they craved. The result is her first book, Free and Clear: Get Unstuck and Live the Life You Want. In this episode, you'll learn:What it means to be "stuck" in some area of your life—and how to get unstuck.Why self-care and taking a pause to gain clarity about what you want your "desired state" to be is the first essential step to living a fulfilled life.The 7 roadblocks that get people stuck.What a "reverse bucket list" is and how it can help you build trust and confidence in yourself.Why publishing a book can be such a powerful force for change not only for your readers, but also in your own life and career.How to navigate the difficult work of becoming an author when you still have a full-time job.For more, check out:shiramiller.commaggielangrick.comwonderwell.pressAnd follow:instagram.com/theshiramillerinstagram.com/maggielangrickinstagram.com/wonderwellpressinstagram.com/selfishgiftpodcast

If you're a creative person, you probably dream of building a thriving business and an abundant life around your art. But while creating is immensely rewarding, monetizing your art can have a shadow side—the potential for burnout, the fear of being vulnerable, and the inevitable rejection that comes with publicly sharing your work. Today's guest is here to talk about how to navigate all of that. Janne Robinson is the author of This Is for the Women Who Don't Give a Fuck and There's Cobwebs on Her Vagina. An accomplished writer and poet dedicated to offering a bold and honest expression of the human landscape, Janne's articles have been viewed millions of times on publications like Huffington Post, Thought Catalog, Elephant Journal, and more. She's no stranger to the public spotlight and all the joys and difficulties that come with it. In this deep, illuminating discussion, you'll learn:How incredibly healing and powerful art can be—for both the artist and their audience—when it comes from a place of honest, vulnerable sharing.How to deal with rejection and having your work misunderstood.How to recognize and recover from burnout, when the responsibility of running a business depletes your creative energy.How to prevent the high expectations you might place on your artistic work from hindering your progress.How to set boundaries to protect yourself in your success.For more, check out:jannerobinson.commaggielangrick.comwonderwell.pressAnd follow:instagram.com/jannerobinsoninstagram.com/maggielangrickinstagram.com/wonderwellpressinstagram.com/selfishgiftpodcast

So you've decided to write a nonfiction book, but how do you get started when you don't even know what square one looks like? Today's guest offers a wealth of useful advice on how to lay a strong foundation for your book and avoid costly, time-wasting mistakes. Josh Bernoff is a freelance ghostwriter, editor, publishing consultant, and the author of four books, including Writing Without Bullshit: Boost Your Career by Saying What You Mean. A former analyst and SVP at Forrester Research, Josh also delivers workshops on how to write with clarity for companies like Netflix, Disney, GE, Salesforce, and many others. His mission? "To rid the world of bullshit, one writer at a time."Josh says writing a book is like going on a trip: If you just start driving without any idea of where your destination is, you could end up anywhere—and probably not where you intended. In the same way, you need to develop a clear goal and roadmap for your book before you start typing. In this episode, he'll give you the tools to build that roadmap—or what Josh calls a "fat outline." You'll learn:The first three steps you need to take in order to start writing your book.Why all effective writing includes stories, even in the business genre. (Hint: Stories are persuasive.)How to find, structure, and use case studies effectively.The biggest mistakes authors often make—and how to avoid them.Why real authors always promote their work. (If you don't, you're just a typist!)Why there's no such thing as true writer's block—and a simple, funny trick that can help you get through it.For more, check out:withoutbullshit.commaggielangrick.comwonderwell.pressAnd follow:instagram.com/jbernoffinstagram.com/maggielangrickinstagram.com/wonderwellpressinstagram.com/selfishgiftpodcast

Putting your work out into the world can be really uncomfortable—especially at first—and many of us use that as an excuse to never do it. We shy away from discomfort, which is totally understandable, but also exactly the wrong move if we want to get ahead in life and achieve our dreams. As Robert Frost once said, "The way out is through," and when you actually seek discomfort, you put yourself into unknown territory where new, better things can happen in your business and your life.An adventure seeker who regularly pushes his own boundaries by skydiving, century bike riding, shark diving, and even trekking in the Sahara, Sterling Hawkins is well acquainted with discomfort. In his twenties, he achieved wild success, raising $550 million for his first start-up. Then in his thirties, the company crashed, and he found himself "moving out of the penthouse and back into his parents' house." That crushing experience put him on a quest to find the answer to this question: How do some people create transformative results in even the harshest circumstances? What he learned reveals that the uber-successful actually thrive on discomfort, because they know it can be high-octane fuel for performance or the most direct path to their goals.Now, as an entrepreneur, motivational leader, and internationally recognized public speaker, Sterling teaches his #NoMatterWhat system for achieving larger-than-life results to Fortune 500 companies. In this episode, he shares:What it means to “hunt” discomfort.How physical and emotional discomfort are actually experienced the same way in the brain—and can be overcome in the same way, as well.The 5 primary types of discomfort that stand between us and the results we want.His proven 5-step system for overcoming each of those discomforts.Every uncomfortable aspect of publishing his first book—and why it was ultimately such a gratifying experience.For more, check out:sterlinghawkins.commaggielangrick.comwonderwell.pressAnd follow:instagram.com/sterling_hawkinsinstagram.com/maggielangrickinstagram.com/wonderwellpressinstagram.com/selfishgiftpodcast

You might think you have a book in you (and you probably do), but is it a truly great one? Would readers want to buy it? Would your message have the power to change people's perspectives and lives? David Moldawer is a New York publishing veteran with more than a decade of experience acquiring books for companies like Penguin, St. Martin's Press, McGraw-Hill, and Amazon Publishing, and today, he joins The Selfish Gift to offer his invaluable, frank advice on how to craft a book that actually sells.David has seen it all and can guarantee you: "There's nothing new under the sun." No matter how unique you think your story or your advice might be, there are likely a dozen other similar books out there. The key is to put your own spin on it—a fresh angle, a new methodology, a unique perspective, a compelling voice. But how?In this episode, you'll learn:Why differentiation—identifying what sets your book apart from others like it—must always be your starting point.How to "think like a reader" in order to identify your target audience. (Spoiler: Trying to write a book for "everyone" will result in a boring read that isn't right for anyone.)Why some of the biggest bestsellers actually... aren't that great.Why building a good "hook" into your title and subtitle is essential for a package that sells. (Hint: Brevity is best.)Tips on the writing process from a seasoned publishing professional who has worked with the likes of Deepak Chopra and David Mamet.For more, check out:mavengame.combookitect.commaggielangrick.comwonderwell.pressAnd follow:instagram.com/davidmoldawerinstagram.com/maggielangrickinstagram.com/wonderwellpressinstagram.com/selfishgiftpodcast

Why is going public with your life's work so terrifying? Is it the fear of rejection? Are you worried people will think you're selfish for focusing on your art, or that you're a sell-out for striving to gain visibility? You might be surprised to learn that the fear of putting yourself out there is ancestral; it was a part of our DNA even before social media. Historically, ostracism—being cast out from the group—could cost people their safety or even their lives. So it's no wonder that public disapproval can feel like literal, physical danger. But there's something even more dangerous: losing the opportunity to become the best version of yourself, to make the most of your one, precious life.Claudia Cauterucci is a multilingual, multicultural psychotherapist, international speaker, author, and the creator of dynamic meditation. She has nearly 40,000 one-on-one clinical and coaching hours under her belt, helping people heal from ancestral trauma so that they can rise with greatness into the life they choose—something she calls "The Heaven on Earth Experience." Now, she joins The Selfish Gift podcast to share her wisdom and meditative strategies for overcoming fear to help you on your own journey to "Heaven on Earth."In this episode, you'll learn:Why fear of rejection is an intrinsic part of the human experience and can often feel like physical danger, even when it's not.The "survival programs" we need to overcome to get past that fear and chase our dreams: wanting control, wanting approval, and wanting safety.How to prepare yourself for handling triggers of past traumas and the inevitable—yes, inevitable—experience of disapproval.Practical mental tools and dynamic meditation strategies you can do anywhere at any time to be more in control of your emotional responses.Why working toward becoming your highest, capital-S Self is not only what's best for you, but also what's best for the world.For more, check out:claudiacauterucci.commaggielangrick.comwonderwell.pressAnd follow:instagram.com/claudiacauterucci_instagram.com/maggielangrickinstagram.com/wonderwellpressinstagram.com/selfishgiftpodcast

How many times have you thought about writing a book or starting a company/venture that creates positive change in the world? And how many times has your response to that impulse been something like, "It's not the right time" or "I'm not enough of an expert" or "There's no way I could possibly succeed"? In this episode of The Selfish Gift, serial social entrepreneur Madeleine Shaw explains why everyday people—not just business execs and tech workers—should feel empowered to make a social impact.With little formal business education, Madeleine says she has a "street MBA," meaning she earned her wisdom through experience rather than degrees, and she's got plenty to show for it. In her 28-year career as a social entrepreneur, Madeleine has founded and co-founded multiple for- and non-profit organizations—most notably Aisle, a groundbreaking B Corporation that was one of the first companies worldwide to champion natural menstrual health. Now, Madeleine's sharing some of her hard-earned wisdom with us. In this episode, you'll learn:How social entrepreneurship subverts the tools of capitalism to create positive social change.Why you should give yourself permission to say, "I'm an entrepreneur" or "I'm a writer"—especially if you come from a marginalized group. (If not you, who? If not now, when?)Why the traditional capitalist focus on infinite financial growth is wildly unsustainable, and how the term "radiance" offers a more multi-dimensional measure of success based on impact.Why collaboration is the new competition, and why finding the right support is the key to success. (No one does this alone!)How to push past fear to accomplish something new. (Hint: Allow yourself to be a beginner.)How writing a book can be one of the most powerful ways to honor your legacy.For more, check out:madeleineshaw.camaggielangrick.comwonderwell.pressAnd follow:instagram.com/greatergoodbookinstagram.com/maggielangrickinstagram.com/wonderwellpressinstagram.com/selfishgiftpodcast

Did you know that hiring a professional, experienced book editor can cost you upwards of $200 an hour? Well, consider this your $200 episode of The Selfish Gift! Maggie spends an hour talking with Hilary Swanson, a freelance ghostwriter and editor who runs a workshop called "How the F*ck Do I Get a Book Deal?" with bestselling author John Kim. Hilary spent the first ten years of her career acquiring and editing bestsellers at HarperCollins Publishers, and she spills all of her insider knowledge about what the Big 5 look for in a book proposal.Hilary says, "Reading can be an act of activism, so that made me really passionate about making sure my list was doing what it could do to kick down doors." That meant searching for the strongest voices she could find in modern feminism, memoir, smart/edgy humor, mental health, and modern self-help—including New York Times bestsellers by Queer Eye's Jonathan Van Ness, actor Rose McGowan, and the comedic duo behind #IMomSoHard. But what if you're not a TV darling or a hilarious podcaster with millions of followers? How do you make your message stand out from the crowd? In this episode, you'll learn:What an editor actually does. (Spoiler: It's not just sitting in a cozy chair reading manuscripts.)How big of a platform you need to catch a traditional publisher's eye—and what to do if you don't have one.How pitching your book to a publisher is like pitching to a venture capitalist.Why writing a good proposal is the key to getting a book deal—and how to write one.Counterintuitive tips for writing a truly impactful memoir.For more, check out:hilaryswanson.commaggielangrick.comwonderwell.pressAnd follow:instagram.com/illadiainstagram.com/maggielangrickinstagram.com/wonderwellpressinstagram.com/selfishgiftpodcast

What if you want to write a book, but you aren't a confident writer—or you just don't have the time to write it yourself? In this episode, Maggie talks with Dan Gerstein, CEO of Gotham Ghostwriters, about what it takes to create a successful book with the help of a ghostwriter.Dan has been writing professionally for himself and others for over 30 years, and during his early days as a political speech-writer working for the likes of Senator Joe Lieberman on Capitol Hill, he honed the skills to effectively collaborate with thought leaders—to help them inspire and educate their audiences. Now, he specializes in all types of sophisticated long-form writing, having founded a top-rated agency that matches ghostwriters with authors who need help telling and selling their stories. During this conversation, he breaks down what that process is like:Matchmaking: How running a ghostwriting agency is a lot like being a matchmaker—figuring out which projects have true potential, and which authors and writers are the right fit for each other.Collaborating: What does the author have to produce, and how does the writer translate that material into a book? What does it take to make the book a success?Pricing: The cost will likely surprise you, but don't let sticker-shock keep you from achieving your vision!Making the Leap: How to determine whether hiring a ghostwriter makes sense for you—and how to get over any shyness or fear that may be keeping you from publishing your book.For more, check out:gothamghostwriters.commaggielangrick.comwonderwell.pressAnd follow:instagram.com/gotham_ghostsinstagram.com/maggielangrickinstagram.com/wonderwellpressinstagram.com/selfishgiftpodcast

When she wrote her international bestseller, This Naked Mind: Control Alcohol, Annie Grace had no idea that her notion of who she was and what she was born to do would be transformed by it. But that's exactly what happened. When Annie self-educated her way out of a destructive heavy-drinking habit, she compiled all that she had learned about the effects of alcohol on the human body, mind, and emotions into a PDF, which she uploaded to the Internet and gave away for free (not even collecting email addresses!) Eight years later, that act of radical generosity has grown into a global community, a wildly popular podcast with over 14 million downloads, and a seven-figure business. Through a “crucifying” editing process, her PDF became a book that has now sold nearly a million copies, followed by more books, courses, and her own accredited coach-training program. Her work has transformed millions of lives, including her own.In our candid and open-hearted conversation, Annie bares all:Why she had to spend several days in bed to to recover from her editor's feedback—and why she's glad she took their adviceHow she worked tirelessly to get the word out about the book The moment she realized her self-published book was earning her some real moneyHer experience of being courted by traditional publishers with six-figure advancesThe attacks she faced from the recovery establishmentHow her son helped her to deal with the pressures of being recognized in publicFor more, check out:thisnakedmind.commaggielangrick.comwonderwell.pressAnd follow:instagram.com/thisnakedmindinstagram.com/maggielangrickinstagram.com/wonderwellpressinstagram.com/selfishgiftpodcast

What does it take to put your life's work out there in a big way?The Selfish Gift podcast is a series of deep, personal conversations with bestselling authors and prolific creators about how they made the leap from practitioner to public figure. We also dig out the very best advice from the professionals who help them, from editors and agents to publicists, brand strategists, and mindset coaches.Each of us has a unique gift to offer humanity. When we boldly share it with the world, we expand into the grandest version of ourselves and come fully alive.Season 1 debuts May 4, 2022