011 Saying Yes to the Unexpected: The Key to Kim Suhr's Multifaceted Writing Success

What if the secret to a thriving writing career isn't talent or connections - but simply saying "yes"? In this episode, Jessica Noel sits down with author and writing coach Kim Suhr to explore how an openness to unexpected opportunities has shaped her remarkable writing career. From her early days as a high school English teacher to her current role as the founder of Red Oak Writing, Kim shares a story of seizing chance moments and saying "yes" to new paths.

Kim recounts how teaching writing workshops for kids led to coaching adult writers, which then inspired her to pursue an MFA. She discusses the challenges of balancing her own creative work with running a business, and the invaluable support she's found in writing communities. Listeners will be inspired by Kim's willingness to embrace the unknown, from publishing her first short story collection to expanding Red Oak Writing's offerings.

Through Kim's experiences, this episode offers insights on the power of flexibility, the importance of community, and the rewards that can come from saying yes to the unexpected. Whether you're an aspiring author or a multi-passionate creative, Kim's story demonstrates how an entrepreneurial mindset and openness to change can unlock new possibilities in your writing life.

Kim's Sites:

Check out Red Oak Writing here: https://redoakwriting.com/

And Kim Suhr's work here: https://kimsuhr.com/

Other resources you'll want to check out:

- Write On, Door County! Residencies for Writers: https://writeondoorcounty.org/residency/

- Shake Rag Alley Writing Retreat (2025 info TBA): https://shakeragalley.org/retreat-index/writing-retreat/

- Ragdale Residencies for Artists (including writers): https://www.ragdale.org/residencies

- Minnesota Northwoods Writers' Conference (2025 info TBA): https://www.northwoodswriters.org/

- Wisconsin Writers Association: https://wiwrite.org