Struggling to finish your book, or feeling like your writing doesn’t sound like you anymore? In this episode of Finish the Damn Book Podcast, Susie Schaefer sits down with ghostwriter, developmental editor, and writing coach MJ Halberstadt to explore how writers can reconnect to their voice, build momentum, and navigate writing in an AI-driven world. MJ shares how he moved from copywriting into ghostwriting, and why the label “developmental editing” is often more collaborative, and more powerful than people realize. Together, they unpack what it really looks like to create a book that sounds like you, not like a template. You’ll also learn a practical system that makes big manuscripts feel possible: six-week writing sprints. These shorter cycles create clear goalposts, realistic deadlines, and the flexibility to pivot when your title, structure, or story needs to evolve. The conversation goes deeper into what success really looks like for authors today, especially when your book is part of a larger thought leadership ecosystem. MJ shares insights on how a single newsletter can grow into a powerful nonfiction book. And then, the big question: Will AI replace writers, editors, and ghostwriters? Susie and MJ break down what AI can support, what it flattens, and why the slow writing process isn’t a flaw, it’s what creates depth, clarity, and transformation. Because writing a book isn’t just about producing pages… it’s about becoming the person who can share them. You’ll also hear: Why many writers feel disconnected from their voice (and how to fix it) How breaking your book into smaller phases reduces overwhelm Why relationships, not algorithms, shape the strongest books A powerful creative technique using voice memos to unlock emotional, authentic writing Why the writing journey itself is just as important as the finished book If you’ve been stuck, second-guessing yourself, or wondering if your book is even worth finishing, this episode will help you reconnect to what matters and take your next step forward. Listen, subscribe, and share this episode with a writer who needs it. If this resonated, leave a review to help more writers finish what they started. Connect with MJ Halberstadt Want to learn more about MJ’s work or explore his unique approach to voice-driven writing? Email: findthewordswithmj@gmail.com Website: https://findthewordswithmj.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mjhalberstadt Special Offer: MJ mentioned a powerful exercise where he creates a voice memo from your “ideal reader” to help unlock deeper, more authentic writing. If that resonates, reach out to him directly to learn more. If thi Finish the Damn Book Podcast is for writers who know they have a book in them, and are ready to finally get it done. Hosted by Susie Schaefer, this show cuts through perfectionism, overwhelm, and publishing myths to focus on what actually moves a book forward. Through honest conversations with authors, editors, ghostwriters, and industry insiders, Susie explores the craft, mindset, and real-world mechanics of writing books readers finish and share. Each episode offers a blend of: Practical writing and revision strategiesClear-eyed insight into publishing, platform-building, and promotionEncouragement for writers stuck in the middle (or avoiding the hardest chapter)Permission to write imperfectly — and keep goingWhether you’re working on memoir, nonfiction, or a book that defies categories, Finish the Damn Book is here to help you stop circling the idea and start delivering the work. Because the world doesn’t need another unfinished manuscript, it needs your finished book.
