The Professional Writer Podcast

My Surprising Journey from Blogger to Author (Guest Column)

It often takes years of effort to be “in the right place at the right time.”

Today’s guest columnist, Susie Crosby, learned that as she diligently pitched her book idea at writers’ conferences and blogged her way to a book contract, one word at a time.

Does Checking Email Cause You to Lose Focus?

Repeat after me: Today, I vow to shut down my email while I’m working on a project that will grow my business.

The Difference Between Blog and Blog Post

Are you using “blog” and “blog post” correctly?

Time for a Digital Detox?

Feeling stressed and overwhelmed by blogging and social media? Consider taking a digital detox.

Learn the benefits of detoxing from digital devices – whether it’s for a day, a week, or longer.

Painfully Funny Similes and Metaphors from High School Students

Back by popular demand: Our list of painfully funny metaphors and similes written by high school students.

40 Stock Photos You Can Take Yourself

With a smartphone and an eye for detail, you can take your own “stock” photos.

Learn 40 brilliant ideas to build your own image library from guest columnist, Edie Melson.

BONUS: Free printable PDF of the article. Use it as a checklist!

4 Content-Distribution Strategies That’ll Supercharge Your Blog

Even if you have the writing skills of Ernest Hemingway combined with the professional knowledge of Steve Jobs, you’ll need a solid distribution strategy for your blog.

In this guest post, Pierre de Braux shows you four ways to get the word out.

How to Dictate Blog Posts with Google Docs

If you always type or hand-write blog posts, try changing up your routine. Dictate posts with Google Docs voice typing tool.

This illustrated tutorial plus video will get you up and talking in 5 minutes or less.

Plus, you can sign up to receive a handy checklist that includes everything you need to do before publishing your next post. Yep, it’s free.

11 Weak Words that Dilute Your Blog Post’s Impact

Are you guilty of using “throwaway” words in blog posts and social updates? I am.

This article + infographic identifies weak words and phrases and introduces an editing technique to help you eliminate them.

5 Steps for Planning a Year’s Worth of Blogging

5 easy steps for planning an entire year’s worth of blog posts — starting right now! Guest column by Katherine Scott Jones.