Summary of "Writing Memoir And Dealing With Haters With Natalie Maclean" – The Creative Penn Podcast For Writers
Episode Title: Writing Memoir And Dealing With Haters With Natalie Maclean
Host/Author: Joanna Penn
Guest: Natalie Maclean, Multi-Award Winning Wine Writer
Release Date: November 18, 2024
1. Introduction to the Episode
In episode #781 of The Creative Penn Podcast For Writers, host Joanna Penn engages in an insightful conversation with Natalie Maclean, a renowned wine writer and sommelier. The discussion delves into the intricacies of writing memoirs, mastering sensory details, and effectively managing online negativity. This episode is particularly valuable for writers looking to enhance their memoir writing skills and navigate the challenges of maintaining a positive online presence.
2. Natalie Maclean’s Journey into Writing (15:18 - 19:26)
Natalie Maclean recounts her unexpected path to becoming a celebrated wine writer. Initially pursuing a career in high-tech marketing after obtaining an MBA, Maclean's passion for wine blossomed during her time arranging meetings in Napa and Sonoma. Her transition into writing began during a maternity leave when she pitched wine-related content to a local food magazine. This initial foray into writing ignited her confidence and led to a thriving career in wine journalism.
Notable Quote:
"Wine gave me the confidence to write. I had a hook. Because otherwise, I would have never thought someone’s going to pay me to write and I could be home with my son." – Natalie Maclean [15:35]
3. Challenges of Writing Memoir vs. Journalistic Writing (20:07 - 25:44)
Maclean discusses the distinct challenges of writing a memoir compared to her journalistic endeavors. While her regular writing involved first-person perspectives and conversational tones, memoir writing introduced complexities such as plot development, character arcs, and emotional vulnerability. She emphasizes the importance of honesty and the willingness to revisit and relive past experiences to authentically convey one's story.
Notable Quote:
"Memoir shares so many techniques with fiction – plot, setting, character, conflict, themes. It was a mountain to climb, but it's definitely doable." – Natalie Maclean [21:10]
4. Sensory Writing and Being a Supertaster (25:44 - 34:09)
A significant portion of the discussion focuses on the art of sensory writing. As a supertaster, Maclean is exceptionally attuned to sensory details, which greatly enhances her descriptive writing about wine. She offers practical tips for writers to improve their sensory descriptions:
- Notice Everything: Pay close attention to the environment, smells, tastes, and other sensory inputs.
- Slow Down: Take time to absorb and reflect on sensory experiences.
- Be Specific: Use detailed descriptors to paint vivid pictures (e.g., "Granny Smith apple" vs. just "apple").
Notable Quote:
"Start noticing everything, slow down and pay attention. You do not have to be a supertaster. You can be a super noticer." – Natalie Maclean [26:42]
5. Terroir in Wine vs. Author Voice (30:25 - 35:28)
Maclean draws a compelling parallel between terroir—the unique combination of soil, climate, and winemaking techniques that give wine its distinctive character—and an author's voice. Just as terroir defines a wine's identity, an author's unique word choice, humor, and dialogue establish their distinctive voice. She underscores the importance of authenticity and vulnerability in developing a voice that resonates with readers.
Notable Quote:
"Terroir in the wine world means soil, geography, climate, weather, decisions of the winemaker. Similarly, an author's voice is unique combination of word choice, humor, dialogue." – Natalie Maclean [30:25]
6. Dealing with Online Negativity and Haters (35:28 - 48:55)
One of the pivotal topics of the episode is managing online backlash and negativity. Maclean shares her personal experience of facing severe online harassment following a misunderstanding related to her wine reviews. Initially handling the situation independently led to personal distress, but she eventually sought support from friends, family, and legal advice. Key strategies she recommends include:
- Lean on Support Networks: Don't isolate yourself; seek help from loved ones.
- Set Boundaries: Limit exposure to negative comments by blocking and ignoring trolls.
- Outsource When Necessary: Manage overwhelming communications by delegating tasks, such as email triage.
Notable Quote:
"Admitting this awful thing has happened and leaning on friends and family was an exercise in strength, not shame." – Natalie Maclean [40:46]
7. Engaging with Book Clubs and Marketing Strategies (48:55 - 54:21)
Maclean highlights the effectiveness of creating specialized book club guides to foster engagement. Her 54-page guide for her memoir, Wine Witch on Fire, includes chapter-specific wine pairings and discussion questions, enhancing the book club experience. This approach not only enriches reader engagement but also creates additional content streams, thereby expanding her reach and marketing efforts.
Notable Quote:
"One of the key success factors for marketing any book is an email list. I'm on social media, but the majority of my effort is through my email newsletter because you've got that one-to-one conversation." – Natalie Maclean [53:30]
8. Multiple Streams of Income in Writing and Business (54:21 - 60:15)
Maclean outlines her diversified income sources, which include:
- Online Wine and Food Pairing Classes: Offering in-depth courses accessible globally.
- Subscriptions to Wine Reviews: Providing regular, curated wine reviews to subscribers.
- Advertising on Her Website: Monetizing her online presence through ads.
- Books and Speaking Engagements: Writing books and participating in speaking circuits on topics like marketing wine and resilience.
- Podcasting: Hosting the Unreserved Wine Talk podcast, which serves as both a marketing tool and a platform for storytelling.
This multifaceted approach ensures financial stability and broadens her professional footprint.
Notable Quote:
"Non-fiction books, in particular, having an ecosystem around the book is where you can make more money." – Natalie Maclean [56:19]
9. The Role of Podcasting in Marketing and Brand Building (60:15 - 61:12)
Maclean emphasizes the value of podcasting as a medium for intimate and engaged audience interaction. Her podcast not only complements her writing but also acts as a tool for brand building and community engagement. She notes that listeners often develop a deep connection with podcast hosts, which can translate into loyal readers and customers.
Notable Quote:
"It's very intimate, beside your ears, but so business case though. I believe in the power of podcasting." – Natalie Maclean [58:35]
10. Closing Remarks and Contact Information (61:12 - End)
As the episode wraps up, Joanna Penn encourages listeners to utilize the insights shared in their own writing and business practices. Both Penn and Maclean provide information on how to connect with them and access their resources.
Notable Quote:
"I think there's quite an overlap and I hope that the tools get better for measuring it." – Natalie Maclean [60:15]
Key Takeaways
- Authenticity in Memoir Writing: Embrace vulnerability and personal truth to create relatable and compelling memoirs.
- Mastering Sensory Detail: Enhance descriptive writing by honing observational skills and using specific, vivid language.
- Navigating Online Negativity: Establish strong support systems and clear boundaries to protect mental health in the digital age.
- Diversifying Income Streams: Develop multiple revenue sources to ensure financial stability and professional growth.
- Leveraging Podcasting: Use podcasts as a powerful tool for intimate audience engagement and brand building.
For more information or to connect with Natalie Maclean, visit her website at nataliemaclean.com or follow her on social media. To engage with Joanna Penn and access additional resources, visit thecreativepenn.com.