Best Carey Rome Podcasts (2025)

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To Edit or Not to Edit? (An Ask B&L Episode) 33:58

6d ago33:58

33:58

Send us a text Episode Summary: In this engaging Ask B&L episode, Beth McMullen and Lisa Schmid tackle two of the most commonly asked questions from aspiring authors: what is voice in writing and how do you navigate the editorial process? With personal anecdotes, practical advice, and a whole lot of writerly camaraderie, Beth and Lisa break down co…

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ENCORE: Editor Ivan Taurisano talks kidlit and IP 37:27

20d ago37:27

37:27

Send us a text In this encore edition, Beth and Lisa chat with Ivan Taurisano, Associate Editor at Abrams, who specializes in children's literature and intellectual properties. Ivan shares insider tips on creating standout submissions, navigating the acquisition process, and the evolving trends in middle-grade publishing. Guest Bio Ivan Taurisano i…

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Love, Art & Storytelling in Rome: Brian Selznick on his new novel Run Away With Me 50:51

27d ago50:51

50:51

Send us a text Episode Summary: In this inspiring episode, Beth and Lisa welcome bestselling author and illustrator Brian Selznick to discuss his latest YA novel Run Away With Me. Brian shares how personal history, queer identity, and the haunting beauty of an empty Rome during the pandemic shaped this deeply moving love story. Guest Bio: Brian Sel…

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Writing Scary, Querying Smart: Insider Tips with Agent & Author Carey Blankenship-Kramer 35:57

1M ago35:57

35:57

Send us a text Beth and Lisa sit down with Carey Blankenship-Kramer, literary agent and author of Ghost Scout's Honor, to talk all things publishing—from crafting irresistible query letters to the harsh realities of publishing economics. Carey shares heartfelt insights on the future of middle grade, the evolving horror genre, and what truly makes h…

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Writing Origin Stories! Do you have one? 39:51

2M ago39:51

39:51

Send us a text 🎙️ Episode Summary: In this special "Ask Beth & Lisa" episode of Writers With Wrinkles, Beth McMullen and Lisa Schmid explore the emotional challenges of the current creative climate and share their personal writing origin stories to inspire struggling writers. With humor, heart, and a dash of wine, they offer a candid look at what f…

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If It Feels Not Normal, It’s Probably Not: Ask Beth & Lisa 26:00

2M ago26:00

26:00

Send us a text 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 d…

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Breaking Barriers in Publishing: Michele McAvoy on Small Press Success & Writing Realities 34:33

3M ago34:33

34:33

Send us a text PLEASE NOTE: this episode was orignally meant to drop on March 31st but we moved it up so listeners can take advantage of The Little Press's upcoming pitch party. Listen to the full episode for details. Episode Summary In this episode, Beth and Lisa chat with Michele McAvoy, award-winning children’s book author, publisher, and founde…

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Cracking the Code: Middle Grade & YA Publishing Secrets with managing editor Meg Gaertner 34:58

3M ago34:58

34:58

Send us a text In this episode of Writers with Wrinkles, Beth McMullen and Lisa Schmid talk with Meg Gaertner, managing editor of fiction at North Star Editions. Meg shares insights into middle grade and young adult publishing, the acquisitions process, and trends shaping the industry. Guest Bio Meg Gaertner is the managing editor of fiction at Nor…

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Breaking Out of the Writing Rut: Micro Goals, Fresh Eyes & Creative Hacks 27:31

3M ago27:31

27:31

Send us a text In this Ask Beth & Lisa episode, the hosts tackle a common writer struggle: getting out of a creative rut. They share personal experiences, actionable strategies, and insights from working with critique partners and beta readers to reignite motivation and improve writing. Key Discussion Points Recognizing a Writing Rut: How to identi…

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From Query to Publication: Agent Adria Goetz on Perfecting Your Pitch and Navigating the Industry 40:57

4M ago40:57

40:57

Send us a text In this episode of Writers With Wrinkles, we welcome Adria Goetz, a Senior Literary Agent at KT Literary, to discuss the dos and don’ts of querying, how to stand out in a crowded submission pile, and navigating industry challenges like editor transitions. Aspiring authors will gain valuable insights into crafting compelling pitches, …

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Resilience, Rejections, and Rediscovering Joy in Writing 24:15

4M ago24:15

24:15

Send us a text In this Ask Beth & Lisa episode, the hosts tackle listener questions about navigating the challenges of writing and publishing, including understanding agent rejections and crafting strong hooks. They also discuss personal writing goals and the importance of building supportive writer communities. Key Discussion Points New Year's Wri…

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Cracking the Publishing Code: Expert Tips from Editor Ivan Taurisano 36:51

5M ago36:51

36:51

Send us a text **Please Note: Guest Adria Gaetz episode will drop on February 3rd, not January 20th.** In the premier episode of Season 4, Beth and Lisa chat with Ivan Taurisano, Associate Editor at Abrams, who specializes in children's literature and intellectual properties. Ivan shares insider tips on creating standout submissions, navigating the…

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Encore Episode: Agent Kaitlyn Sanchez Tells You What You Need to Know 33:33

5M ago33:33

33:33

Send us a text Episode Summary: Beth and Lisa chat with Kaitlyn Sanchez, literary agent at Bradford Literary and co-creator of kidlit contests, about navigating the publishing industry. Kaitlyn shares actionable insights for aspiring authors on trends, querying agents, and creating standout manuscripts. Guest Bio: Kaitlyn Sanchez is a literary agen…

1
What happens when you land in author jail? Season 3 Finale: Ask Beth & Lisa 28:23

6M ago28:23

28:23

Send us a text In this engaging season finale, Beth and Lisa address common writing and publishing challenges, offering practical advice for aspiring authors. From navigating illustration decisions to overcoming the hurdles of low book sales, they provide actionable insights with humor and honesty. Key Discussion Points Illustration Questions for A…

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A Slightly Unhinged Conversation about Endings that Stick & Avoiding the Rush to the Final Chapter 18:18

6M ago18:18

18:18

Send us a text In this impromptu episode (guest couldn't make it last minute!!), Beth McMullen and Lisa Schmid dive into the challenges of finishing a novel, with Lisa candidly sharing her ongoing struggles with her book's last chapter. The hosts discuss strategies to avoid rushed endings and ways to reignite enthusiasm during the final stages of w…

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You're an 'Orphaned' Author. Now What? 36:45

7M ago36:45

36:45

Send us a text In this episode of Writers with Wrinkles, Beth McMullen and Lisa Schmid tackle the harsh realities of getting "orphaned" in publishing and offer practical tips for authors to navigate setbacks when their editors leave mid-project. They discuss proactive steps authors can take to protect their work, advocate for themselves, and manage…

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Empowering Young Readers: A Conversation with Literacy Advocate E-Train 21:14

7M ago21:14

21:14

Send us a text Episode Summary: In this episode of Writers with Wrinkles, Beth and Lisa chat with teenage literacy advocate and podcast host, E-Train, who founded E-Train Talks Inc. to combat "book deserts" and promote literacy among underrepresented communities. E-Train discusses his journey into reading advocacy, the books that inspire young read…

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Query like a Pro: Agent Amy Nielsen Tells Us How 35:58

7M ago35:58

35:58

Send us a text Episode Summary: In this episode of Writers With Wrinkles, Beth and Lisa chat with Amy Nielsen, a literary agent at Purcell Agency and a published author, about her experiences with both. Amy shares invaluable tips for querying, editing, and how to handle the ups and downs of the publishing industry. Guest Bio: Amy Nielsen is a liter…

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Beta Readers, Book Comps and Barley's Cupcake Crisis 23:24

8M ago23:24

23:24

Send us a text In episode 37 of Writers With Wrinkles, co-hosts Beth McMullen and Lisa Schmid answer listener questions about writing, with a focus on the differences between beta readers and critique partners, how to find critique partners, and advice on book comps for queries. Lisa also offers a PSA on dogs eating too many cupcakes. Key Discussio…

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Behind the Scenes with Literary Agent Cathie Hedrick-Armstrong 32:43

8M ago32:43

32:43

Send us a text In this episode of Writers With Wrinkles, hosts Beth McMullen and Lisa Schmid chat with Cathie Hedrick-Armstrong, literary agent at Marsal Lyon Literary Agency. Cathie discusses her journey in the publishing world, offering insightful tips on querying, writing from the heart, and maintaining professionalism on social media. Guest Bio…

1
What is going ON in the Middle Grade Market?? 25:59

8M ago25:59

25:59

Send us a text In this episode, Beth and Lisa take a look at the challenges facing middle-grade publishing, from declining sales to changes in bookstore stocking strategies, that seem to be all anyone can talk about! They share insights on how aspiring authors can adapt to the shifting landscape and stand out in a saturated market. Key Discussion P…

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Ask Beth & Lisa: How to Juggle Multiple Writing Projects...Or Not? 21:35

9M ago21:35

21:35

Send us a text In this listener Q&A episode of Writers with Wrinkles, co-hosts Beth McMullen and Lisa Schmid answer a question about juggling multiple writing projects and staying focused. They share personal approaches to managing ideas and offer advice on how to prioritize projects for aspiring authors. Key Discussion Points Handling Multiple Wri…

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Navigating the Publishing World: Insights from Agent and Author Ann Rose 22:13

9M ago22:13

22:13

Send us a text In this episode of Writers With Wrinkles, Beth and Lisa welcome literary agent and author Ann Rose to discuss the state of the publishing industry, what makes a debut novel stand out, and how to balance writing for the heart and the market. Guest Bio: Ann Rose is a literary agent at Tobias Literary Agency and an author of young adult…

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Ask Beth & Lisa: Surviving the Query Trenches 22:34

10M ago22:34

22:34

Send us a text In this episode of Writers with Wrinkles, co-hosts Beth McMullen and Lisa Schmid introduce a new segment called "Ask Beth & Lisa." They jump right into the challenges of surviving the query trenches, offering practical advice on managing the emotional rollercoaster that comes with seeking literary representation. Key Discussion Point…

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Insider Insights with Disney Hyperion Editor Rachel Stark 44:21

10M ago44:21

44:21

Send us a text In this episode, Beth and Lisa chat with Rachel Stark, an editor at Disney Hyperion, discussing the state of middle grade and graphic novels, and providing insights into the publishing industry's inner workings. They also delve into how authors can craft compelling submissions and navigate the complexities of book acquisitions. Guest…

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Marketing Magic: Authentic Strategies for Children's Book Success with Alonzo Fuller 26:34

10M ago26:34

26:34

Send us a text (PLEASE NOTE: All comments and opinions in this podcast are strictly Alonzo's own.) In this episode, co-hosts Beth McMullen and Lisa Schmidt interview Alonzo Fuller, a marketing specialist for children's books at Andrews McMeel Publishing. They discuss marketing strategies, advice for introverted authors, and the importance of authen…

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Write Shorter Books? Here's the scoop on that... 26:49

11M ago26:49

26:49

Send us a text Episode Summary Beth and Lisa discuss their summer activities and insights from the ALA conference, emphasizing the need for shorter middle-grade books and adaptability in writing. They also announce changes to their podcast format for improved content quality. Key Discussion Points Summer Vacation Reflections: Beth and Lisa reminisc…

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Behind the Book: Insider Tips from Editor Hannah Kimber on Crafting Standout Submissions 45:03

11M ago45:03

45:03

Send us a text Episode Summary: Hannah Kimber, associate editor at Andrews McMeel Publishing, shares insights on making book submissions stand out and the detailed acquisitions process. She emphasizes the importance of sensitivity readers, understanding market trends, and open communication between authors and editors. Guest Bio: Hannah Kimber is a…

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ENCORE EPISODE: Library Joy and Inclusivity: Mychal Threets on the Transformative Power of Libraries 30:22

11M ago30:22

30:22

Send us a text Mychal Threets is a librarian currently collaborating with PBS Kids. He's known for his viral videos highlighting library joy. At the time of this recording he was the Supervising Librarian for Solano County Library. Mychal began his journey with libraries at a young age, getting his first library card and job at the same branch he e…

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ENCORE EPISODE: Queen of the Beach Read, Author Hannah McKinnon 32:02

11M ago32:02

32:02

Send us a text Hannah McKinnon is an award-winning author of eight women's fiction and beach read novels with Simon & Schuster. Her notable titles include The Summer Club, (July 23rd), Message in the Sand, The View from Here, Sailing Lessons, The Summer House, Mystic Summer, and The Lake Season. Her latest release, The Darlings, came out on May 2nd…

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ENCORE EDITION! Insider Secrets to Getting Your Book Published, with editor Erinn Pascal 33:50

12M ago33:50

33:50

Send us a text ENCORE EDITION! (One of our favs from season 2!) Erinn Pascal is the Senior Editor for Kids Books and Licensing at Andrews McMeel Universal. She has previously held editorial positions at Scholastic, Disney, and Simon & Schuster. Erinn grew up in Pembroke Pines, Florida, and holds a BFA in Writing, Literature, and Publishing from Eme…

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ENCORE: Insider Insights with Editor Sara Schonfeld 41:53

12M ago41:53

41:53

Send us a text ENCORE EDITION! (PLEASE NOTE: All comments and opinions in this podcast are strictly Sara's own.) In the latest episode of Writers with Wrinkles, we're thrilled to host Sara Schonfeld, an editor at HarperCollins, specializing in middle grade and YA literature. Our discussion spans the joys and challenges of editing, insights into the…

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The 31 Day Build Your Author Platform Challenge is NOW! 27:03

12M ago27:03

27:03

Send us a text Key Discussion Points: 1. Summer Slump in Writing: Beth and Lisa discuss how summer activities can lead to a writing slump and share personal experiences and tips for overcoming it. 2. Character Development: Lisa shares her struggle with her character's emotional journey and how understanding her character's background helped overcom…

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Must Listen Advice from TV Writer and Bestselling Middle Grade author Joshua Pruett 40:02

1y ago40:02

40:02

Send us a text In this episode, we welcome Joshua Pruett, a New York Times & USA Today bestselling author, and Emmy Award winner. Pruett has written for both Mystery Science Theater 3000 and Doctor Who. He is currently a writer for the upcoming return of Phineas and Ferb and co-author of the Last Comics on Earth graphic novel series. His first solo…

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Middle Grade Magic! Co Host Lisa Schmid Goes Deep with new novel Hart & Souls 35:10

1y ago35:10

35:10

Send us a text This episode features co-host Lisa Schmid discussing her upcoming middle-grade novel "Hart & Souls." The focus is on the challenges of writing a second novel, known as the sophomore slump, and the unique pressures and expectations that come with it. Key Discussion Points: 1. Introduction to "Hart & Souls" - Lisa introduces her novel …

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Voices in the Dark: Elevating Women in Horror with author Lindy Ryan 31:48

1y ago31:48

31:48

Send us a text Lindy Ryan, anthologist and horror author, discusses her debut horror novel Bless Your Heart, which explores themes of family, loss, and confronting monsters. She also discusses the intricacies of bringing an anthology to market. Key Discussion Points: Writing as Therapy: Ryan shares the personal beginnings of her writing journey, us…

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The 31-Day Build Your Author Platform Challenge! (We swear it will be fun!) 21:01

1y ago21:01

21:01

Send us a text Hosts: Beth McMullen and Lisa Schmid Theme: The 31-Day Platform Challenge For: Aspiring authors looking for practical advice on building and enhancing their author platform. Key Discussion Points: Overview of the 31-Day Challenge: Aimed at building author platforms through daily, manageable tasks starting June 1st. Hosted in partners…

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Perseverance and Possibilities with author Bitsy Kemper 38:08

1y ago38:08

38:08

Send us a text In this episode, we interview Bitsy Kemper, a prolific author of children's books and a passionate advocate for authors navigating the publishing industry. The theme of this episode revolves around the resilience required in the publishing industry, including the personal challenges and triumphs of maintaining a career in writing ove…

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Respect Your Secondary Characters! Here's why and how. 22:48

1y ago22:48

22:48

Send us a text Hosts: - Beth McMullen - Lisa Schmid Theme: The importance of secondary characters in storytelling. Key Discussion Points: - Secondary characters add depth, complexity, and enrich the narrative. - They contribute to the world-building, provide subplots, conflicts, and challenges. - Effective secondary characters are distinct from mai…

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From Teacher to Bestselling Author, Matt Eicheldinger is telling the stories kids want to read 46:05

1y ago46:05

46:05

Send us a text Hosts: Beth McMullen and Lisa Schmid Theme: Writer Resilience, Success Key Discussion Points: Matt Eicheldinger's Background: Transition from childhood interests to writing. Teaching career and its role in storytelling. Path to self-publishing and eventual traditional publishing success. Celebrating Recent Successes: Matt's book, "Ma…

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The Write Mindset: Kick Imposter Syndrome to the Curb! 23:51

1y ago23:51

23:51

Send us a text Coping with imposter syndrome as a writer. Key Discussion Points: - We delve into the concept of imposter syndrome, defined as doubting one's abilities and feeling like a fraud despite success. - Discussion of the commonality of imposter syndrome among writers, with anecdotes of even well-known authors feeling it. - The role of socia…

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Words Matter. Just ask picture book author Lisa Riddiough 28:03

1y ago28:03

28:03

Send us a text Hosts: Beth McMullen Lisa Schmid Themes: Exploring the nuances of writing rhyming picture books with guest Lisa Riddiough, a Northern California based writer and author of the newly released picture book, Pie-rats. Key Discussion Points: 1. The Art of Rhyme in Picture Books: Discussion on the industry's view on rhyming picture books …

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The 17-minute pep talk you NEED right now! 18:37

1y ago18:37

18:37

Send us a text Season 3, Episode 13 - Embracing Rejection and Failure in Your Writing Journey Hosts: Beth McMullen and Lisa Schmid Episode Theme: Navigating Failure and Rejection in Writing Key Discussion Points: 1. Personal Experience with Rejection: - Shared a recent rejection of their Cat’s Rule picture book. - Importance of closure in rejection…

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Editing Unveiled: Sara Schonfeld Tells You What You NEED To Know 41:32

1y ago41:32

41:32

Send us a text (PLEASE NOTE: All comments and opinions in this podcast are strictly Sara's own.) In the latest episode of Writers with Wrinkles, we're thrilled to host Sara Schonfeld, an editor at HarperCollins, specializing in middle grade and YA literature. Our discussion spans the joys and challenges of editing, insights into the acquisitions pr…

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The Secret Weapon of Bestsellers: Level Up Your Pacing 21:13

1y ago21:13

21:13

Send us a text What is Pacing? More about rhythm than speed Reader engagement is key - avoid sections that feel like a slog Different genres have different pacing expectations (e.g., thrillers vs. literary fiction) Crafting Pacing Sentence Length: Short = fast, Long = slow Active Voice & Description: "Show, don't tell" keeps things moving Paragraph…

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Mastering Happily Ever After: The Art of Writing Romance with Patience Bloom 28:52

1y ago28:52

28:52

Send us a text Writers With Wrinkles: Patience Bloom on Romance Writing Patience Bloom, a freelance book editor with 26 years of experience in romance publishing, joins Beth McMullen and Lisa Schmid on the podcast Writers With Wrinkles. Key points: Elements of a captivating romance protagonist: Likable, even if flawed. Human and relatable. Vulnerab…

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How To Write Flashbacks That Don't Suck 19:53

1+ y ago19:53

19:53

Send us a text Beth McMullen and Lisa Schmid tackle the art of writing flashbacks, offering insight into integrating them effectively into your narrative. The episode focuses on making flashbacks seamless and impactful, avoiding common pitfalls that can distract or confuse readers. Flashbacks: A Double-Edged Sword - Flashbacks can enrich your story…

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Level Up with Author and Video Game Creator Andrew Auseon 21:45

1+ y ago21:45

21:45

Send us a text Join Beth McMullen and Lisa Schmid as they welcome Andrew Auseon, a talented author and video game writer. Dive into Andrew's journey across the realms of video games and kids books, exploring the creative synergy between these two worlds. Spellbinders Series: Discover the magic behind Andrew Auseon's middle-grade series, starting wi…

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The Big Picture Part 3—Navigating the Picture Book Publishing Maze: Tips, Resources & Encouragement 29:27

1+ y ago29:27

29:27

Send us a text This week we dived deep into the picture book publishing process. Whether you're at the beginning of your journey, stuck in the middle, or just looking for that extra nudge, we've covered everything you need to know to navigate this challenging yet rewarding path. Our Picture Book Journey: We share the latest on Cat's Rule and the un…

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Agent Kaitlyn Sanchez Tells You What You Need to Know 33:01

1+ y ago33:01

33:01

Send us a text In the latest episode of Writers With Wrinkles, join hosts Beth McMullen and Lisa Schmid as they talk with Kaitlyn Sanchez, a figure who has rapidly become a beacon in the world of children's literature. Kaitlyn, a literary agent at Bradford Literary, shares her unique story that transitions from a passion for mathematics to a growin…

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