Resources for writers

Before I started freelancing, I didn't know what a query letter was, how to contact editors, or when a journalist would get paid. The idea that one could make their living from writing did not cross my mind. Now I understand how freelancing works. In 2017 I published a guide for freelance journalists. For more than a decade I managed a blog that broke down the misconceptions about freelancing and garnered thousands of subscribers. In 2025, I retired that blog and moved the community to a new space, DESIGN YOUR WRITING LIFE on Substack.

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I've been an education provider for Wake County Schools Lifelong Learning Program and Duke University's Osher Institute. I teach how to write for magazines, classes on author marketing, and search engine optimization. I'm comfortable instructing via webinar, teleseminar, in-person workshops, break out and keynote sessions at writer conferences.

Resources that helped me get started

• Agent Query
  World's largest database of agents and presses--and it's all free.
• American Society of Journalists & Authors Newsletter
  Free weekly version for non-members. Paid membership allows access to the members-only ASJA Monthly. Worth every penny.
• Association of Authors Representatives
  AAR is an organization of over 400 literary agents. Verify your agent is a member.
• Business Networking International
  Look for a BNI chapter in your area.
• Client Email Helper
  Interactive template for client communications.
• The Content Council
  Resources for content marketers.
• Content Marketing Institute
  Content marketing resources like newsletters, podcasts, and conferences.
• ​Creative Mornings
  Monthly group for creative professionals with global chapters.
• Freelancers Union
  No-fee organization connecting freelancers with the tools and resources we need. ​
• Funds For Writers
  ​A great resource for contest and grant information.
• ​Gratisography
  ​Free high-res pictures for commercial and personal use.
• The Grinder
  The "new free Duotrope."

• HARO Help A Reporter Out
  ​Find experts to interview for articles, or register yourself as an expert.
• Hunter
  Trying to find someone's email? This site can help.
• ​New Pages
  Looking for new literary magazines, writing contests, publishers and indie bookstores? New Pages is the place.
• Publicity Hound
  Fantastic free newsletter with insider scoop on securing radio and TV appearances, growing social media networks, & more.
• Query Tracker
  Free database of literary agents and publishers.
• Search Engine Journal
  An ever-changing guide to search marketing.
• Syndication Agencies for Feature Writers
  Writer's Contracts put together a list of agencies to submit re-prints to.
• ​Writers Market
  You can't survive without this!
• Writers Weekly
  All about freelance writing; learn about companies to avoid.
• Volunteer Lawyers for the Arts
  Free (or reduced) legal advice for those who work in creative fields.

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Books about freelancing and writing on my shelf

Crack the Client Code by Mike McDerment
Drawing on the Right Side of Your Brain by Betty Edwards
 Freelancer's Bible by Sara Horowitz
Getting Started as a Freelance Writer by Robert W. Bly
Secrets of a Freelance Writer by Robert W. Bly
The Well-Fed Writer by Peter Bowerman
The Power of Habit by Charles Duhigg
What the Most Successful People Do Before Breakfast by Laura Vanderkam
Writing Down the Bones by Natalie Goldberg

Freelance writing advice videos

What is a writer's platform?
How do I get paid to write for magazines if I don't have any clips?
Why should a writer self-publish?
What should a writer blog about?

The resources are provided strictly as a courtesy. None of the site owners or book authors have requested or paid for placement.