The Editor's Half Hour

Most writers think they’re ready for editing. Most manuscripts say otherwise.In this episode of The Editor’s Half Hour, Nadia Geagea Pupa explores one of the most misunderstood—and often skipped—stages of the editorial process: manuscript evaluations, alongside Steph Thompson. This conversation gets to the core of what writers actually need before line editing begins. Steph shares how she approaches evaluations from a big-picture perspective, helping writers understand what’s working, what’s not, and how to move forward with clarity and confidence.Together, they break down what a manuscript evaluation is—and what it isn’t—along with how editors assess structure, pacing, clarity, and overall story flow. The conversation also addresses the balance between honest critique and constructive guidance, the common issues that show up across manuscripts, and what a strong evaluation actually looks like in terms of deliverables.They also get into the business side of this work—how to set boundaries, manage client expectations, and price manuscript evaluations in a way that reflects their value.Manuscript evaluations sit at a critical decision point in the publishing process. Done well, they can save writers time, money, and frustration by providing direction before deeper editing begins. This episode offers a clear look into how editors think at this stage—and why clarity always comes before correction.Visit www.inkandinsightwordsmithery.com to learn more about Steph’s freelance business.Connect with her on LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/stephanie-thompson-editorsubstack.com/@inkandinsightwordsmitheryFind her on Instagram: @ink_and_insight_wordsmitheryLeave a review or share this episode with your fellow editors!Check out other episodes of The Editor’s Half Hour: piquepublishing.com/podcastConnect with me on Instagram: @Editors_Half_HourSubscribe to my newsletter: tinyurl.com/EditorsHalfHourBecome a Patreon Sneak “Pique” supporter for $5/month to get access to exclusive content on YouTube: patreon.com/EditorsHalfHour

In this episode, I interviewed Barbara Gastel about the evolving field of medical editing—and the persistent myths that keep talented editors from stepping into it. Barbara is the author of "Medical Editing: A Guide for Authors and Editors," published by the University of Chicago Press. Drawing on decades of experience in science and medical communication, she offers a grounded, practical look at what medical editors actually do, how they enter the profession, and why there is no single “correct” background for the role. One of the most important takeaways from this conversation: you do not need a health science degree to succeed in medical editing. While subject-matter knowledge can be valuable, the profession benefits from editors with diverse training—journalism, English, publishing, research, and beyond. Strong editorial judgment, clarity of thought, ethical awareness, and respect for evidence are what truly matter. We also discuss: - The core responsibilities of medical editors - How medical editing differs from other editorial niches - The ethical considerations unique to medical and scientific publishing - Practical advice for editors curious about entering this space This episode is both an invitation and a reality check. Medical editing is rigorous. It carries responsibility. But it is also deeply meaningful work—work that shapes how research is communicated and how information reaches clinicians, policymakers, and the public. If you’ve ever wondered whether you belong in medical editing, this conversation may expand your thinking.Leave a review or share this episode with your fellow editors!Check out other episodes of The Editor’s Half Hour: piquepublishing.com/podcastConnect with me on Instagram: @Editors_Half_HourSubscribe to my newsletter: tinyurl.com/EditorsHalfHourBecome a Patreon Sneak “Pique” supporter to get access to exclusive content on YouTube: patreon.com/EditorsHalfHour

Jane Friedman: The Business of Being a Writer (and a Freelancer)In this episode, I talk with publishing expert, educator, and author Jane Friedman about the realities of building a writing or editing career in today’s shifting marketplace.Jane has spent more than two decades working across traditional publishing, digital media, and higher education. Her insights cut through industry myths and offer a clear, practical look at what it really takes to sustain creative work—especially for freelancers.We explore the principles behind her book The Business of Being a Writer, how to position yourself in a crowded market, and why understanding your value is essential, no matter what stage of your career you’re in. We also discuss common misconceptions around agents, the submissions process, and why packaging and pricing matter just as much as skill.Jane shares a thoughtful perspective on AI in the exclusive interview—its potential, its limits, and what writers and editors should pay attention to as technology evolves.This is a grounded, generous conversation for anyone navigating the business side of creative work.Topics We CoverWhy positioning matters for freelancersPricing, packaging, and communicating your valueHow editors can strengthen their visibility and reachResources & LinksJane Friedman’s Website: https://janefriedman.comThe Business of Being a Writer (Book): https://janefriedman.com/book/the-business-of-being-a-writerJane’s Substack Article: There Is No Such Thing as a Good Editor https://janefriedman.substack.com/p/there-is-no-such-thing-as-a-goodIf you’re planning to attend the LoveLitCon in San Diego (Feb. 13–16), visit lovelit. and use code PP7299 to get $25 off the registration fee.Leave a review or share this episode with your fellow editors!Check out other episodes of The Editor’s Half Hour: piquepublishing.com/podcastConnect with me on Instagram: @Editors_Half_HourSubscribe to my newsletter: tinyurl.com/EditorsHalfHourBecome a Patreon Sneak “Pique” supporter to get access to exclusive content on YouTube: patreon.com/EditorsHalfHour

Book Marketing for EditorsWhat happens after the edits are done? In this episode, I interview Aryn Van Dyke, founder of Book Rockstar and former HarperCollins marketing expert, about how editors can better understand the world of book marketing—and why it matters more than ever.Aryn shares how her background in corporate publishing led her to create Book Rockstar, a boutique agency dedicated to helping authors build authentic, sustainable book marketing strategies that actually fit their values. She opens up about her journey from marketing professional to author, including her own Kickstarter campaign for her debut novel and what she learned about community, vulnerability, and creative entrepreneurship along the way.If you’ve ever wondered how editors can support authors beyond the manuscript—or what it takes to turn a polished book into a thriving brand—this episode will give you real-world insight into the marketing side of publishing.In this episode, you’ll learn:What editors should know about the author marketing journeyHow to help authors think about visibility from the startThe biggest misconceptions about book marketingLessons Aryn learned from crowdfunding her debut novelWhy marketing doesn’t have to feel “salesy”How collaboration between editors and marketers benefits everyonePlus, in the exclusive after-party episode for Patreon supporters, Aryn gets personal about the emotional side of launching a novel, the lessons she’s learned about balance and burnout, and how she’s exploring the role of AI in modern book marketing.Find Aryn on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aryn-van-dyke/Learn more about Book Rockstar: https://www.bookrockstar.com/Buy your copy of Aryn’s book: https://www.arynvandyke.com/Leave a review or share this episode with your fellow editors!Check out other episodes of The Editor’s Half Hour: piquepublishing.com/podcastConnect with me on Instagram: @Editors_Half_HourSubscribe to my newsletter: tinyurl.com/EditorsHalfHourBecome a Patreon Sneak “Pique” supporter to get access to exclusive content on YouTube: patreon.com/EditorsHalfHour

If you’ve spent any time on LinkedIn, you may have seen this episode’s guest in action—Laura Poole. She’s become known for her signature ‘snip snip’ posts, where she takes a sentence, trims the excess, and shows how just a few smart cuts can transform writing into something sharper, cleaner, and more powerful.In this episode, we discuss the art of concise editing: how to cut the clutter, keep the meaning, and make every word earn its place. Whether you’re an editor or a writer, you’ll come away with practical tools—and maybe even the courage to pick up the scissors and give your words a little snip snip.With her decades of experience in scholarly nonfiction and her gift for teaching, Laura explains how the art of concise editing can transform writing from wordy to worthy. She reminds us that editing is not about judgment—it’s about clarity, flow, and nuance. Laura has been editing full-time since 1996, and shortly after, she founded her company, Archer Editorial Services, Inc., in 1997. She currently serves on the ACES Awards Committee as head judge for the Robinson Prize.Visit her company website: https://www.archereditorial.com/Follow Laura on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/laurapoole/Leave a review or share this episode with your fellow word nerds and editing enthusiasts!Check out other episodes of The Editor’s Half Hour: piquepublishing.com/podcastConnect with me on Instagram: @Editors_Half_HourSubscribe to my newsletter: tinyurl.com/EditorsHalfHourBecome a Patreon Sneak “Pique” supporter to get access to exclusive content on YouTube: patreon.com/EditorsHalfHour

Developmental editor and anthropologist Andrew Hodges shares his view of the editor’s role in shaping fictional worlds—especially in speculative fiction. He brings a unique perspective to the craft, blending editorial expertise with a background in cultural anthropology. We discuss:How editors can guide world-building without taking over the creative visionCommon mistakes writers make when creating new worldsApproaches to handling culture and social structures with nuanceTools and frameworks that make complex worlds easier to manageWhy developmental editing for world-building is really about strengthening the story’s coreIf you’re a developmental editor working with fantasy, sci-fi, or even historical fiction, this episode is full of ideas for making world-building more intentional, inclusive, and story-driven.Andrew Hodges is a developmental editor and the founder of The Narrative Craft (TheNarrativeCraft.com), where he works with speculative fiction authors to bring their stories to life. With a PhD in social anthropology, Andrew offers deep insight into how culture, structure, and meaning shape the worlds we build.Here’s a detailed list of the resources mentioned in this episode:Andy’s podcast: https://www.thenarrativecraft.com/the-free-lancer-podcast Andy’s webinar https://payhip.com/b/UTCN9Sophie Playle Guiding Principles for Developmental Fiction Editing (Webinar) https://www.liminalpages.com/ Jennifer Lawler Developmental Editing Courses https://www.clubedfreelancers.com/jennifer-lawler-editor/Beth Hill’s book, “The Magic of Fiction” https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/29510704-the-magic-of-fictionJanice Hardy’s “Revising Your Novel: First Draft to Finished Draft: A step-by-step guide to revising your novel”: https://a.co/d/f5y6PQuWonderbook: https://a.co/d/3YCnoWJBlog, podcast, discord: https://mythcreants.com/Leave a review or share this episode with your fellow word nerds and editing enthusiasts!Check out other episodes of The Editor’s Half Hour: piquepublishing.com/podcastConnect with me on Instagram: @Editors_Half_HourSubscribe to my newsletter: tinyurl.com/EditorsHalfHourBecome a Patreon Sneak “Pique” supporter: patreon.com/EditorsHalfHour

In this special double feature episode, I’m joined by two standout voices from this year’s ACES conference in Salt Lake City.First, I interview Heather Saunders, president of ACES: The Society for Editing and CEO of Nova Arc Content. Heather shares her perspective on leading in the editing world, the importance of advocating for editors in specialized fields like STEM, and how she’s working to build a stronger, more inclusive professional community. It’s a conversation about vision, leadership, and the evolving role of editors in today’s content landscape.Then, I sit down with Jamaal Pittman, this year’s Robinson Prize winner—one of the highest honors an editor can receive. Jamaal opens up about his career journey, what this award means to him, and the lessons he’s learned about excellence, mentorship, and community in the editing profession.Whether you’re deep in the world of editorial work or just curious about the people shaping the future of content, this episode is packed with insight, heart, and inspiration.Resources & Mentions:ACES: The Society for EditingNova Arc ContentLearn more about the Robinson PrizePurchase your copy of Jamaal’s book, The Copy Editor’s (Life)Style Guide.

What if copy editing was more than just a profession—what if it was a lifestyle? In this episode, I’m thrilled to welcome Jamaal Pittman, author of The Copy Editor’s Life(Style) Guide, for a deep dive into the world of editing, career longevity, and what it really takes to thrive in the publishing industry.Jamaal’s book isn’t just another style guide—it’s an insightful, engaging, and often humorous look at the editor’s life, from mastering the mechanics of clean copy to navigating the unique challenges of a career built around precision and clarity. Whether you’re a seasoned editor, a newcomer to the field, or just someone fascinated by the world of words, this conversation is packed with valuable takeaways.✅ The essential skills every copyeditor needs to succeed in today’s publishing landscape✅ How to balance technical expertise with creativity when editing diverse content✅ Common mistakes even seasoned editors make—and how to avoid them✅ Tips for building a sustainable, fulfilling career as a copy editor✅ The importance of maintaining your own editorial style while adapting to different projectsJamaal Pittman is a professional copyeditor, writer, and publishing professional with a passion for clarity, consistency, and compelling storytelling. His book, The Copy Editor’s Life(Style) Guide, is an essential resource for editors at all levels, offering both practical guidance and witty insights into the daily realities of the profession.Follow Jamaal on Instagram: @jamaaldpittmanFind him on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/jamaalpittman📖 Buy his book: amazon.com/Copy-Editors-Life-Style-Guide/dp/1304540537 Learn more about Mary Moore, the editor of Jamaal’s book: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marymoore866/ Love the Show?💬 Leave a review to help others discover the show!📢 Share this episode with your fellow word nerds and editing enthusiasts!🎙️ Check out other episodes of The Editor’s Half Hour: piquepublishing.com/podcast✍️ Connect with me on Instagram: @Editors_Half_Hour⭐ Subscribe to my newsletter: tinyurl.com/EditorsHalfHourBecome a Patreon supporter: patreon.com/EditorsHalfHour

Welcome back to The Editor's Half Hour podcast! We're kicking off the year with an episode designed to help you work smarter, not harder. In this episode, I interview productivity expert and editorial pro, Lori Paximadis for a lively discussion about the systems and shortcuts that can revolutionize your workflow.Lori has been a successful full-time freelancer for more than half of her 33-year career in publishing. Her background in project management and production makes her a sought-after copyeditor and proofreader for fiction and nonfiction. Her clients range from Big Five publishers to indies. She has been presenting and training on the topics of systems and efficiency since 2016.In this episode, Lori shares:🛠️ Her favorite tools and tech for streamlining editorial projects🕒 Time-saving hacks for managing client communication, deadlines, and revisions🧠 The mindset shifts that can help you avoid burnout while staying on top of your gameWhether you’re a seasoned editor or just starting out, you’ll walk away with practical tips to implement right away—plus, a peek into Lori’s productivity playbook.📚 Mentioned in this episode:Text Expander: textexpander.comCalendly: calendly.comLori's website: systemsandshortcuts.comLori’s socials: about.me/loripax2025 Inaugural Editors Calendar: https://2025-editors-calendar.printify.me/product/15393711/2025-inaugural-editors-calendar📩 We’d love to hear from you! What are your go-to systems or shortcuts? Share your thoughts and tips on social media using #EditorsHalfHour or drop us a message.Sign up to receive the newsletter: http://eepurl.com/iXaVBUConsider joining the podcast Patreon: patreon.com/c/editorshalfhour/postsVisit piquepublishing.com/podcast to view or listen to other episodes.

When you pick up a cookbook, do you ever wonder how it all comes together? From the ingredients to the instructions to the tempting photos, a lot more happens behind the scenes than meets the eye. In this episode, we pull back the curtain on the essential yet often-overlooked role of the cookbook editor.Join us as we chat with seasoned cookbook editor Melissa Haskin, who reveals what it takes to turn a chef’s vision into a polished, reader-friendly masterpiece. Based in Atlanta, Georgia, Melissa works on recipes, resumes, and research. Most recently, she edited "The Solo Stove Fire Pit Cookbook." She offers coaching for freelance editors and will be launching her first course, Recipe Editing 101, in March 2025. In this episode, you'll learn why editing is essential—not just for correcting grammar but for refining recipes, ensuring accuracy, and creating a seamless flow that makes readers feel right at home in their kitchens. Discover the magic of balancing clarity with creativity, making dishes look delicious, and keeping flavors authentic.Below is a list of resources mentioned in this episode:The Modern Proper Website: https://themodernproper.com/The Modern Proper Book: https://themodernproper.com/cookbookWorld Central Kitchen: https://wck.org/Melissa’s website: https://www.melissa-haskin.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/melissahaskin/Recipe Class (March 2025): https://www.melissa-haskin.com/courses.htmlFull price: $497 (similar in price to Erin Servais' AI for Editors Course and the Toronto Metropolitan University course)Automatic 10% discount for early registration (through February 1)Extra $25 off at any time for listeners of your podcast with code Nadia25 (valid for the March 2025 course) Currently slotted to be a 6-week course over Zoom/video call at a set time each week. Will be offered as a self-paced course in the future. Reedsy: https://reedsy.com/melissa-haskinRecipe Editing class through the Toronto Metropolitan University (no affiliation) Other Resources:The Romantasy Cookbook: Epic Recipes Inspired by Great Romantasy Novels and Their Fearless Heroines Hardcover – May 27, 2025by Gabriela Leon (Author)Sandwiches of History: The Cookbook: All the Best (and Most Surprising) Things People Have Put Between Slices of BreadNorthwest Editors Guild Red Pencil ConferencesRecommended Books:The Complete Recipe Writing Guide: Mastering Recipe Development, Writing, Testing, Nutrition Analysis and Food Styling, Raeanne Sarazen, MA, RDN, FANDThe Recipe Writer's Handbook, Revised and Updated Paperback – March 30, 2001, by Barbara Gibbs Ostmann (Author), Jane L. Baker (Author)The Food Lover's Companion 5th Edition/The Deluxe Food Lover's Companion 2nd Edition

Isabella Furth shares her insight about emotional labor and how it affects the editing process. Emotional Labor is defined as caring work or relationship work; it’s about managing emotional resources, but it can often become devalued or taken for granted.Isabella explains the importance of recognizing emotional labor because it isn't something that should be avoided or ignored. As editors, we must find the moments in our work where we are taking the extra steps necessary to make our clients feel comfortable and safe.In this episode, Isabella shares tips on how to factor emotional labor into your costs, and most importantly, how to recognize and manage it.For more information about emotional labor, read the blog that covers this topic at www.sdpen.com. Search for "Editing and Emotional Labor."Isabella's vast editorial experience includes journal articles, scholarly books, doctoral theses, biographies, textbooks, test prep materials, and general interest non-fiction. She also has more than 12 years of experience in policy research, writing, design, and structured dialogue. She is a member of the American Copy Editors Society (ACES), the Editorial Freelancers Association (EFA), and the San Diego Professional Editors Network (which she served as co-president from 2018 to 2020).To learn more about Isabella, please visit her website at http://www.bluefisheditorial.com.

Rebecca Scharpf of Scrollwork Edits provides an abundance of information about what it takes to work with neurodivergent clients. She primarily works with fiction writers and specializes in editing fantasy, sci-fi, and romance novels.In this episode, she shares a variety of ways editors can create positive and affirming spaces for neurodivergent writers.Rebecca shares several resources for both writers and editors:Yo Samdy Sam (autistic and ADHD): https://www.youtube.com/@YoSamdySam/videosOrion Kelly - That Autistic Guy (autism as it presents in men): https://www.youtube.com/@orionkellyPurple Ella (nonbinary, autistic, and ADHD, parent to a neurodivergent child): https://www.youtube.com/@PurpleEllaHow to ADHD (ADHD in women): https://www.youtube.com/@HowtoADHDI am MindBlind (autistic / ADHD / mother / aphantasia / memory disorder): https://www.youtube.com/@HowtoADHDAlso, check out Meg McIntyre’s blog that shares additional tools and resources for both writers and editors: https://mcintyreeditorial.com/blog/tools-resources-neurodivergent-writer-editorTo learn more about Rebecca and her business, please visit: https://www.scrollworkedits.com/

There are several things that CaTyra Polland is known for, but the most notable is being the founder of National Black Authors Day, which is celebrated on May 4. In this episode, she shares valuable insight into how she started her editorial career, which led her to start her own business, Love For Words (love4words.com). She explains her mentality behind starting this national holiday and what it means for Black authors.CaTyra spends her time serving her clients as a guide and mentor for the publishing process—especially in writing and editing. She is an award-winning author, entrepreneur, editor, creator, poet, and international speaker. After being recognized for her ambition, community service, and literary expertise in the Rochester area, CaTyra continues to build a legacy.She also shares details about why she created the Literacy Love Scholarship for high school students, which is a way to empower young kids to write, edit, and pursue their dreams.Last but not least, she is also the host of the Editor Knows Best, which is an international podcast for literary creatives. In between running her business and speaking at conferences, she also volunteers her time as the grant reviewer for the Genesee Valley Council on the Arts, chairwoman for the Innova Girls Academy (the first and only all-girls elementary school), and as a grant writer for the Rochester Black Authors Association.