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Elizabeth M. Johnson (she/her)'s avatar

I read this a few days ago and am STILL thinking about this! Here's my conundrum: I went from writing a more standard newsletter-- with all the bells and whistles, links, resources, recommendations and a brand new short essay- for a professional audience every 2 weeks to a much more streamlined monthly newsletter to people who are interested in me as a cnf writer, not as a professional educator. I'd like to publish more often (and I do offer a weekly discussion thread) but a new essay every week or even bi-weekly feels impossible for so many reasons (writing takes time, I don't always know until I'm in it what I want to submit and what might go here, deadlines sometimes compromise my quality, etc.). And since I do non fiction, pieces like "what I'm reading right now" feels less relevant, although I have done them. Would love thoughts from Sarina or anyone in a similar spot! Thanks!

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Sarina Bowen's avatar

What about: "five cool articles I read this week" or "the best essay on [my topic] I saw this month" ?

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Elizabeth M. Johnson (she/her)'s avatar

I like that! And in thinking about it even more, I've decided to make my newsletters shorter and do them more often. I really appreciate your response and this thoughtful post, Sarina. Thanks so much!

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Elisabeth Paige Gruskin's avatar

Hi Sarina,

Thanks for the article. I've been meaning to start a newsletter. How do you get permission to include someone on your email list? Thanks,

elisabeth paige

epaigeconsulting@gmail.com

www.mindfulhappykids.com

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Sarina Bowen's avatar

Hi Elisabeth! Well, when they sign up directly on your website or on Substack, they are automatically granting you permission. Now if you have a list of emails from your personal list of contacts, you should send a single message asking permission. "Reply to this message if I can add you to my author newsletter," or something like that.

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