I’m excited to share Episode 13 of my YouTube podcast series, where we explore the journeys of inspiring entrepreneurs. Each episode uncovers the unique aspects of different businesses, providing valuable insights and resources for fellow small business owners.

Our latest episode is now live, featuring Alexandra O'Connell, an award-winning book editor and writing coach.

Alexandra has been working with indie authors since 2012, helping them shape their stories and refine their writing. In this episode, she shares the process behind her workbook, Lean Into Your Yuck: 7 Steps to Mastering Nonfiction Book Structure. Alexandra offers practical tips on working through the tough parts of writing and creating a solid structure that leads to a successful draft. Her approach is thoughtful, grounded, and focused on helping writers produce their best work.

Whether you're an aspiring author or a seasoned writer looking for fresh insights, Alexandra’s advice provides actionable steps to improve your writing process and structure your book effectively.

Ready to dive in? Head over to my YouTube channel to catch the conversation with Alexandra O'Connell.

Beyond the professional side of the podcast, we also explore the personal worlds of our guests here on the blog. These insights give us a deeper look into the passions, interests, and unique experiences that shape these talented individuals. Let’s dive into Alexandra’s world, in her own words:

• Reading: The Beach at Summerly by Beatriz Williams. It was a great summer read with an incredible setting and a mid-20th-century spy drama subplot. I also love the rich character development. Before this, I finished a historical fiction novel, a collection of surrealist short stories, and a hilarious nonfiction book about the plight of the Meadowlands in NJ, where I grew up. My reading interests cover a lot of ground!

• Watching: In terms of streaming, I’ve been comfort re-watching lately. I finished Bones and am back to Supernatural—a perfect blend of camp, jump scares, comedy, and self-awareness. I also really enjoyed The Bear—intense but so good.

• Listening: I’ve discovered the band Sleep Token and have their new album Sundowning on repeat. I also recently started listening to Billie Eilish (I know, I know—late to the party!). In terms of podcasts, I just heard the first episode of Pretendians, and I’m hooked. I also recommend This Land.

• Creating: I’m a bit stalled on a story I’m working on but have been writing some poetry lately (some of it might not be too bad!) and making notes on the story. I also bought a fancy Staedtler pencil extender and love it. Most of my poems are in pencil, naturally.

• Exploring: I’m spending as much time as possible in the mountains. I’m hoping to explore more remote areas beyond the Front Range as the snow clears from the high country.

• Traveling: I wish! My bucket list is long. I managed to travel a lot while I was a broke grad student but haven’t had the chance in the last few years while running my business. It’s definitely a goal.

• Learning: I’m learning to allow more freedom in my creative process. As an editor, I focus on the details, but as a creator, I’m learning to just let go and embrace the process.

• Planning: I’m planning a couple of longer camping trips with friends. We camp dispersed—no campgrounds or crowds. I’m really looking forward to being out in nature.

• Reflecting: I’m usually active in seasonal sports leagues, but I’m injured this year, which has me reflecting on who I am when I’m not busy with sports. I’m not a patient patient, but I’m thinking about what else fills my soul during this downtime. Maybe it will lead me to something new.

Alexandra’s dedication to the craft of writing and her personal journey through creativity are inspiring! I hope you enjoyed learning about Alexandra as much as I did in our conversation.

You can watch the episode anytime here and visit her website at Alexandra O’Connell. Stay tuned for more insightful interviews in upcoming episodes. Remember, your growth as a small business owner is just a click or a listen away.