A pep talk for creatives

This video–complete with uplifting message, particularly if you’re the sort who generally likes to get shit done–was created by Cathy Hay, who teaches people how to make corsets and other period costumery (Is that a word? Well, if it isn’t, it...
I was 45-years-old the first time I voted

I was 45-years-old the first time I voted

The first time I voted for an American president, I was 45-years old. It was 2008– McCain vs. Obama– and I can’t remember whom I chose. I’d registered and cast my vote only because my writing group had marveled at my willingness to dismiss a right others...
How to deal with trolls

How to deal with trolls

I finished off a big Masterclass promotion at the beginning of the month. ( I probably don’t have to tell you this because you no doubt received 250 emails from me and wanted very much for me to cut the shit.) I’m amazed at all of the emotions that come up...
You’ve got to be bad to be good

You’ve got to be bad to be good

I received a great question the other day that I’d like to address here: Should someone blog without professional edits to begin engagement about a potential book? (They’re concerned about credibility if they post poorly. Thoughts?)   Here’s the thing. I usually...
Squirrel attacks, elk mauling, and sunstroke

Squirrel attacks, elk mauling, and sunstroke

One Saturday a few years back, Walt and I hiked the Grand Canyon. We went down the South Kaibab trail to the bottom, meandered along the banks of the Colorado River, then headed back up to the top along the Bright Angel trail. It’s a pretty big day: roughly 17 miles...
I found this email to be totally bizarre

I found this email to be totally bizarre

I received this email in response to last week’s newsletter. I thought I’d share it with you because, if you put stuff out there on a regular basis, you’re going to receive interesting responses. Sometimes people will thank you for your message,...