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Beth and Lisa react in real-time to Taylor Swift’s engagement, connecting it to creativity, storytelling, and the writing life. They also dive into lessons on “first pages,” share a cautionary tale from a tough SCBWI conference, and tease details of their upcoming Writers With Wrinkles retreat.

Guest Bio
No guest this week—this is an Ask Beth & Lisa episode featuring co-hosts Beth McMullen and Lisa Schmid.

Key Discussion Points

• Taylor Swift’s Engagement: Beth and Lisa discuss the news, likening Taylor’s relationship to a rom-com and exploring how her songwriting may evolve now that she’s writing from happiness rather than heartbreak.
• Creativity and Emotion: How emotional upheaval, trauma, and personal history often fuel strong storytelling—and the challenge of sustaining creativity as life stabilizes.
• First Pages: Why first pages matter so much in grabbing readers, agents, and editors; common pitfalls like info-dumping; and how to balance polish without getting stuck rewriting forever.
• SCBWI Conference Flashback: A harsh “first pages” critique session that traumatized attendees serves as a cautionary tale about feedback done without kindness or actionable advice.
• Upcoming Retreat Plans: Beth and Lisa reveal they are scouting a wine-country location for the Writers With Wrinkles Workshop & Wine Retreat planned for Spring 2026. Expect fun, inspiration, and spider-free accommodations.
• The Waiting Game in Publishing: Lisa shares her experience of being on submission with a new middle-grade novel, reminding writers that rejection and silence are part of the process—and that community helps ease the wait.

Conclusion
This episode blends pop culture joy with practical writing wisdom, offering listeners both lighthearted fun and thoughtful reflection on the writing journey. Beth and Lisa invite listeners to sign up for the newsletter, follow on socials, and prepare for upcoming episodes—including an interview with agent Shayla Knigge of Highline Literary Collective dropping September 15.

Mentioned Links

• Writers With Wrinkles Website
• Think your first page is wrinkle-free? Send us up to 350 words—anonymously, of course—and find out. [full details here]

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