Podcast
The Savvy Scribe
Hosted by Janine Kelbach · EN
The Savvy Scribe, a podcast for savvy nurse writers and creatives who want to grow a profitable freelance writing business. Hear some stories about life and entrepreneurship from your host, Janine Kelbach RNC-OB, and her guests. Each episode is jam-packed with actionable tips in growing your business, goal planning, freelancing, productivity, life tools, and many more!
25episodes
Episodes
Newest firstAll episodes
EP350: Creating Multiple Income Streams: Beyond Client Writing with Maria Jasanya MSN, RNC, CNM, CLC, CNE
2d ago00:38:09Tap to summarizeSend us Fan MailIn this episode, I sit down with my longtime friend and community member, Maria Jasanya. Based in Brooklyn, Maria is a nurse educator and medical writer who has mastered the art of balancing a traditional nursing career with multiple income streams.She shares her journey from wanting to be a nurse since elementary school to becoming a nurse residency coordinator, adjunct professor, and prolific freelance writer. We dive deep into how a curious mind and a willingness to say “yes” to new opportunities can lead to a fulfilling and diversified professional life.About Maria JasanyaMaria Jasanya, MSN, RNC, CNM, CLC, CNE, is a Nurse Educator, Adjunct Nursing Faculty, Certified Nurse Midwife and Nurse Freelance Medical Writer with extensive experience in nursing education, maternal–child health, and professional development. She obtained her BSN from CUNY Hunter College in 2007, MSN from SUNY Downstate Medical Center in 2012 and a post-MSN certificate from SUNY Stony Brook in 2019.Maria is passionate about mentoring nurses, advancing nursing education, self and patient advocacy and improving maternal and newborn health outcomes by applying evidence-based research. She has devoted herself to be a lifelong learner and encourages nurses to do the same! Key TakeawaysThe Power of Multiple Income Streams: We discuss how Maria manages her primary role as a nurse residency coordinator alongside being an adjunct professor at three different nursing colleges and a frequent contributor to major medical databases.The Art and Science of Writing: Maria explains how she transitioned into medical writing through our connection on LinkedIn. She now contributes to platforms like EBSCO’s Dynamic Health and Relias, specializing in updating references, fact-checking, and writing nursing and continuing education content.Speaking into Existence: After taking a chance on her first podcast guest appearance, Maria discovered a new passion for speaking and now proactively uses LinkedIn to book future engagements.Advice for Nurses Seeking ChangeFollow Your Passion: Maria emphasizes that you shouldn’t chase money; instead, chase your passion, and the multiple income streams will naturally follow.Ignore the “Marketable” Myth: You don’t have to work in high-acuity areas like the ICU just to be marketable; there are endless opportunities in settings like school health, correctional nursing, and neuro rehab.Start Small and Take Risks: Growth happens when you are willing to be uncomfortable. Whether it’s a small $25 project or a new credential like SEO, every step helps build your professional repertoire.Follow Maria on Socials!LinkedInWelcome to the Savvy Scribe Podcast, I'm so glad you're here! Before we start the show, if you're interested, we have a free Facebook group called "Savvy Nurse Writer Community"I appreciate you following me and listening today. I would LOVE for you to subscribe: ITUNESAnd if you love it, can I ask for a If you’re ready in exploring if freelance writing is your next PRN job or even full-time, I invite you to check out the Savvy Nurse Writer Community on Facebook and visit savvynursewriter.com to help you get started today!Support the showFOLLOW & REVIEW THE SAVVY SCRIBE ON APPLE PODCASTSI appreciate you following me and listening today. I would LOVE for you to subscribe: ITUNESAnd if you love it, can I ask for a review? Select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review.”If you’re ready to start exploring if freelance writing is your next PRN job or even full-time, I invite you to check out the Savvy Nurse Writer Community on Facebook and the Plan Produce Profit + Writing Skills Course to help you get started today!
Transcribe →EP349: Why Your Boundaries Fail (and How to Fix Them) with Dawn Andrews
3w ago00:37:05Tap to summarizeSend us Fan MailSetting boundaries isn’t just about saying “no”; it’s about building the infrastructure your life and business need to thrive. For many female founders and healthcare professionals, the transition from caregiver to entrepreneur brings a unique set of challenges where lines often get blurred. This episode with business strategist Dawn Andrews dives into why we struggle to hold the line and how to reclaim your time without the crushing weight of guilt.About Dawn Andrews:Dawn Andrews is the founder and CEO of Free Range Thinking and the host of the She’s That Founder Podcast. A dedicated “hockey mom” and seasoned leader, she serves as a business strategist for creatives and executives, guiding them to refine their leadership styles, assemble dream teams, and transform their professional visions into reality.Today on the Savvy Scribe Podcast:The “Infrastructure” Shift: Why viewing boundaries as business systems takes the emotion and guilt out of saying no.The Caregiver Trap: How socialization and “caveman-era” instincts make it harder for women to prioritize their own needs.Early Warning Signs: How to identify irritability and “boundary creep” before you reach total burnout.Navigating Scope Creep: A practical script for handling clients who ask for more than what’s “in the box.”The Transition from Bedside to Business: De-programming the “everything is an emergency” mindset common in nursing.The Myth of “Set It and Forget It”: Why boundaries require constant reinforcement and how to handle people who push back.The 10-Hour Challenge: A simple exercise to identify what needs to be true for you to reclaim your personal time.Entitlement vs. DeservingWelcome to the Savvy Scribe Podcast, I'm so glad you're here! Before we start the show, if you're interested, we have a free Facebook group called "Savvy Nurse Writer Community"I appreciate you following me and listening today. I would LOVE for you to subscribe: ITUNESAnd if you love it, can I ask for a If you’re ready in exploring if freelance writing is your next PRN job or even full-time, I invite you to check out the Savvy Nurse Writer Community on Facebook and visit savvynursewriter.com to help you get started today!Support the showFOLLOW & REVIEW THE SAVVY SCRIBE ON APPLE PODCASTSI appreciate you following me and listening today. I would LOVE for you to subscribe: ITUNESAnd if you love it, can I ask for a review? Select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review.”If you’re ready to start exploring if freelance writing is your next PRN job or even full-time, I invite you to check out the Savvy Nurse Writer Community on Facebook and the Plan Produce Profit + Writing Skills Course to help you get started today!
Transcribe →EP348: 5 Tips for Building a Freelance Writing Practice While Working Full Time, Raising Kids, and Still Having a Life with Trish Larsen
Apr 1100:31:04Tap to summarizeSend us Fan MailIn this episode of The Savvy Scribe podcast, Janine sits down with nurse and freelance writer Trish Larsen to talk about building a freelance writing business while balancing a full-time job and family life. Trish shares her journey from bedside nursing to remote work and how she turned her natural writing skills into a flexible career.Building a Freelance Writing Business as a NurseWhat You’ll Learn in This EpisodeHow Trish got started building a freelance writing business during COVIDWhy you don’t need a full business plan to beginHow to identify your niche based on your nursing experienceWhere to find clients (and why LinkedIn works so well)How to balance a full-time job, family, and building a freelance writing businessKey TakeawaysBuilding a freelance writing business starts with interest and curiosity—not perfectionYour nursing experience already includes valuable writing skills you can useYou don’t need a website to start—just a few samples and confidenceFree resources (like business development centers) can help you get started fasterCommunication with clients and understanding your audience are essentialBuilding a freelance writing business can ebb and flow depending on your season of lifeWelcome to the Savvy Scribe Podcast, I'm so glad you're here! Before we start the show, if you're interested, we have a free Facebook group called "Savvy Nurse Writer Community"I appreciate you following me and listening today. I would LOVE for you to subscribe: ITUNESAnd if you love it, can I ask for a If you’re ready in exploring if freelance writing is your next PRN job or even full-time, I invite you to check out the Savvy Nurse Writer Community on Facebook and visit savvynursewriter.com to help you get started today!Support the showFOLLOW & REVIEW THE SAVVY SCRIBE ON APPLE PODCASTSI appreciate you following me and listening today. I would LOVE for you to subscribe: ITUNESAnd if you love it, can I ask for a review? Select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review.”If you’re ready to start exploring if freelance writing is your next PRN job or even full-time, I invite you to check out the Savvy Nurse Writer Community on Facebook and the Plan Produce Profit + Writing Skills Course to help you get started today!
Transcribe →EP347: Networking Strategies for Nurse Entrepreneurs (Even If You’re Introverted) with Marsha Ann Battee
Mar 2801:02:41Tap to summarizeSend us Fan MailIn this episode, I sit down with Marsha Battee, host of the Bossy Nurse podcast, to talk about something many writers struggle with—networking. If you’ve ever felt hesitant to put yourself out there (especially as an introvert), this conversation will help you rethink what networking really is and how to do it in a way that feels authentic and effective.Networking Strategies for IntrovertsWhat You’ll Learn in This EpisodeWhy networking doesn’t have to feel like self-promotion or “schmoozing”How to build credibility before you ever pitch a clientThe importance of having an online presence (even if you’re introverted)Simple ways to engage with potential clients on LinkedInHow to lead with value instead of asking for opportunitiesWhy offering something for free (strategically) can open doorsThe exact messaging approach to build genuine connectionsHow to shift your mindset from “what can I get?” to “what can I give?”Key TakeawaysYour nursing background is your unfair advantage—use it as a credibility marker when networking and pitching.You don’t need to be on every platform, but you do need a clear online presence (LinkedIn or a simple website works).Start networking before you need opportunities by engaging with content and building relationships early.Genuine engagement (comments, thoughtful messages) is more effective than cold pitching.Offering value first—whether through insights, content, or support—builds trust faster than asking for work.You don’t need a large audience to create meaningful connections or land opportunities.Everyone starts “ugly”—progress comes from consistency, not perfection.Welcome to the Savvy Scribe Podcast, I'm so glad you're here! Before we start the show, if you're interested, we have a free Facebook group called "Savvy Nurse Writer Community"I appreciate you following me and listening today. I would LOVE for you to subscribe: ITUNESAnd if you love it, can I ask for a If you’re ready in exploring if freelance writing is your next PRN job or even full-time, I invite you to check out the Savvy Nurse Writer Community on Facebook and visit savvynursewriter.com to help you get started today!Support the showFOLLOW & REVIEW THE SAVVY SCRIBE ON APPLE PODCASTSI appreciate you following me and listening today. I would LOVE for you to subscribe: ITUNESAnd if you love it, can I ask for a review? Select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review.”If you’re ready to start exploring if freelance writing is your next PRN job or even full-time, I invite you to check out the Savvy Nurse Writer Community on Facebook and the Plan Produce Profit + Writing Skills Course to help you get started today!
Transcribe →EP346: Who Actually Hires Nurse Writers? A Behind-the-Scenes Look From Someone Who Did the Hiring with Shaun Chavis
Mar 700:48:46Tap to summarizeSend us Fan MailIn this episode of The Savvy Scribe, Janine sits down with Shaun Chavis, a former journalist, editorial director, and content marketing consultant, to talk about who actually hires nurse writers. Shaun shares her perspective from years of hiring health professionals for editorial and content marketing roles in media and health tech companies.If you’re a nurse curious about freelance writing—or a beginner who hasn’t landed your first client yet—this episode pulls back the curtain on what hiring managers look for, why nurses are highly valued in health content, and how to position your expertise to attract the right opportunities.What You’ll Learn in This EpisodeWho actually hires nurse writers in today’s content landscapeWhy nurses often have an advantage over generalist health writersHow clinical experience helps writers interpret studies and explain health topics clearlyWhat hiring managers look for when reviewing pitches and writing samplesWhy subject matter expertise makes writing faster and more valuableHow to evaluate startups as potential writing clientsThe difference between transactional marketing and long-term content strategyWhy writers should think of articles as long-term business assetsHow clear, plain language improves health communicationHow platforms like Substack are creating new opportunities for writers and brandsWelcome to the Savvy Scribe Podcast, I'm so glad you're here! Before we start the show, if you're interested, we have a free Facebook group called "Savvy Nurse Writer Community"I appreciate you following me and listening today. I would LOVE for you to subscribe: ITUNESAnd if you love it, can I ask for a If you’re ready in exploring if freelance writing is your next PRN job or even full-time, I invite you to check out the Savvy Nurse Writer Community on Facebook and visit savvynursewriter.com to help you get started today!Support the showFOLLOW & REVIEW THE SAVVY SCRIBE ON APPLE PODCASTSI appreciate you following me and listening today. I would LOVE for you to subscribe: ITUNESAnd if you love it, can I ask for a review? Select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review.”If you’re ready to start exploring if freelance writing is your next PRN job or even full-time, I invite you to check out the Savvy Nurse Writer Community on Facebook and the Plan Produce Profit + Writing Skills Course to help you get started today!
Transcribe →EP345: Your Portfolio That Converts: Showing Value Beyond ‘I’m a Nurse’ with Suzy Wraines
Feb 2100:40:58Tap to summarizeSend us Fan MailToday’s guest of The Savvy Scribe podcast is Susie Wraines, an entrepreneur and host of the Starting a Business Simplified podcast, to talk about something every nurse already has—but may not recognize: transferable skills.From the bedside to business ownership, Susie shares how her background in business, the Army, and veterinary medicine shaped her entrepreneurial path. Together, we unpack how nurses can translate clinical experience into entrepreneurship, nurse writing, leadership roles, or any new direction they feel called to pursue.If you’ve ever thought, “I don’t know anything about business,” this episode will challenge that belief.What You’ll Learn in This EpisodeWhy nurses are naturally equipped to become entrepreneursHow to identify and articulate transferable skillsThe mindset shifts required when leaving bedsideHow to build a portfolio for nurse writing or other rolesWhy resourcefulness matters more than being “the smartest” personHow to normalize discomfort during career transitionsThe connection between nervous system regulation and business growthWelcome to the Savvy Scribe Podcast, I'm so glad you're here! Before we start the show, if you're interested, we have a free Facebook group called "Savvy Nurse Writer Community"I appreciate you following me and listening today. I would LOVE for you to subscribe: ITUNESAnd if you love it, can I ask for a If you’re ready in exploring if freelance writing is your next PRN job or even full-time, I invite you to check out the Savvy Nurse Writer Community on Facebook and visit savvynursewriter.com to help you get started today!Support the showFOLLOW & REVIEW THE SAVVY SCRIBE ON APPLE PODCASTSI appreciate you following me and listening today. I would LOVE for you to subscribe: ITUNESAnd if you love it, can I ask for a review? Select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review.”If you’re ready to start exploring if freelance writing is your next PRN job or even full-time, I invite you to check out the Savvy Nurse Writer Community on Facebook and the Plan Produce Profit + Writing Skills Course to help you get started today!
Transcribe →EP344: The Ethics of using AI to Write About Health with Emily Thompson
Jan 3100:47:45Tap to summarizeSend us Fan MailIn this episode of The Savvy Scribe podcast, Janine sits down with freelance writer Emily to explore the evolving role of AI in healthcare writing. From ethical concerns to practical applications, they unpack how AI has transformed the writing landscape—and what it means for nurse writers moving forward.AI in Healthcare WritingWhat You’ll Learn in This EpisodeHow AI has changed freelance writing since 2019Ethical concerns around AI-generated healthcare contentWhy AI should be treated as a tool—not a replacement for writersHow to responsibly use AI in your writing workflowWhat the future may hold for writers in an AI-driven worldKey TakeawaysAI can speed up workflows, but it requires strong writing fundamentals to use effectivelyHealthcare content demands accuracy, making human expertise essentialAI can confidently present misinformation, so fact-checking is criticalTransparency with clients about using AI in healthcare writing is especially importantWriters who adapt and expand their skills (like content strategy) will stay competitiveStorytelling and human-centered content may become even more valuable in the futureWelcome to the Savvy Scribe Podcast, I'm so glad you're here! Before we start the show, if you're interested, we have a free Facebook group called "Savvy Nurse Writer Community"I appreciate you following me and listening today. I would LOVE for you to subscribe: ITUNESAnd if you love it, can I ask for a If you’re ready in exploring if freelance writing is your next PRN job or even full-time, I invite you to check out the Savvy Nurse Writer Community on Facebook and visit savvynursewriter.com to help you get started today!Support the showFOLLOW & REVIEW THE SAVVY SCRIBE ON APPLE PODCASTSI appreciate you following me and listening today. I would LOVE for you to subscribe: ITUNESAnd if you love it, can I ask for a review? Select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review.”If you’re ready to start exploring if freelance writing is your next PRN job or even full-time, I invite you to check out the Savvy Nurse Writer Community on Facebook and the Plan Produce Profit + Writing Skills Course to help you get started today!
Transcribe →EP343: From Bedside to Business: Crafting Your Nurse Writer Brand Story with Dr. Farah Laurent
Jan 1700:50:34Tap to summarizeSend us Fan MailDr. Farah shares the real story behind her pivot from ER nurse to nurse career coach and business owner. You’ll learn how your personal story can fuel your brand identity, the importance of visibility in business, and how to stand out in a saturated market—even as a nurse writer. This episode is packed with tangible advice for nurses ready to build something of their own.About Dr. Farah LaurentNurse entrepreneur and founder of Nurses Making Business Moves Conference! Nurse career coach who’s coached over 200 nurses to land their dream role making 6 figures! Author, podcaster, and keynote speaker!Key TakeawaysThe early resistance Farah faced—and how it fueled her purpose and missionWhy personal brand is your reputation and how to actively manage itHow to turn your story into a brand that builds trust and attracts clientsThe value of niching down to speak directly to your ideal audienceVisibility strategies: showing up on video, creating educational content, and networkingWhy testimonials and referrals are powerful tools for growing your credibilityThe difference between a business idea and a real business opportunityThe must-have elements before launching your brand and businessPractical tips for nurse writers: building authority, creating content, and connecting authenticallyWhy consistency matters more than perfectionWelcome to the Savvy Scribe Podcast, I'm so glad you're here! Before we start the show, if you're interested, we have a free Facebook group called "Savvy Nurse Writer Community"I appreciate you following me and listening today. I would LOVE for you to subscribe: ITUNESAnd if you love it, can I ask for a If you’re ready in exploring if freelance writing is your next PRN job or even full-time, I invite you to check out the Savvy Nurse Writer Community on Facebook and visit savvynursewriter.com to help you get started today!Support the showFOLLOW & REVIEW THE SAVVY SCRIBE ON APPLE PODCASTSI appreciate you following me and listening today. I would LOVE for you to subscribe: ITUNESAnd if you love it, can I ask for a review? Select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review.”If you’re ready to start exploring if freelance writing is your next PRN job or even full-time, I invite you to check out the Savvy Nurse Writer Community on Facebook and the Plan Produce Profit + Writing Skills Course to help you get started today!
Transcribe →EP342: Year-End Reflection: Review, Revise, and Recharge for the Year Ahead
Dec 2700:14:24Tap to summarizeSend us Fan MailWe’re closing in on the final episodes of 2025, and what better way to wrap up the year than with a heartfelt and honest year-end review of your writing business? Janine takes you through a no-fluff, reflection-packed session that’ll help you enter 2026 with confidence and clarity.Year-End Writing Business Review Without OverwhelmToday on the Savvy Scribe Podcast:How to evaluate your wins—personal, financial, and professionalWhy failure is feedback and how to shift your mindsetWhat didn’t work this year and how to pivotThe importance of emotional agility in businessHow to set intentional goals and boundaries for 2026Tips to avoid wasting time on activities with no ROIKey TakeawaysWins are more than outcomes—they’re also decisions and risks you took. Celebrate them all.Business failures aren’t the end. They’re just data guiding your next move.Nurses are uniquely equipped to handle emotional shifts in business—leverage that.Reflecting honestly on what didn’t work helps you grow faster.Delete distractions and reclaim your time.Write your dream business headline for 2026—dream big and back it up with clear Q1 goals.Set boundaries and adopt a winner’s mindset to maintain clarity and direction.Welcome to the Savvy Scribe Podcast, I'm so glad you're here! Before we start the show, if you're interested, we have a free Facebook group called "Savvy Nurse Writer Community"I appreciate you following me and listening today. I would LOVE for you to subscribe: ITUNESAnd if you love it, can I ask for a If you’re ready in exploring if freelance writing is your next PRN job or even full-time, I invite you to check out the Savvy Nurse Writer Community on Facebook and visit savvynursewriter.com to help you get started today!Support the showFOLLOW & REVIEW THE SAVVY SCRIBE ON APPLE PODCASTSI appreciate you following me and listening today. I would LOVE for you to subscribe: ITUNESAnd if you love it, can I ask for a review? Select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review.”If you’re ready to start exploring if freelance writing is your next PRN job or even full-time, I invite you to check out the Savvy Nurse Writer Community on Facebook and the Plan Produce Profit + Writing Skills Course to help you get started today!
Transcribe →EP341: My Journey As A Nurse Writer with Allyssa Dolphin, RN MSN (A Plan Produce Profit Success Story)
Dec 2000:45:39Tap to summarizeSend us Fan MailIn this inspiring episode of The Savvy Scribe Podcast, Janine welcomes Alyssa, a fellow nurse and member of the Savvy Nurse Writer community. Alyssa shares how she transitioned from bedside nursing and teaching to becoming a successful freelance writer—all while raising a toddler and growing her family.Her story is full of honest reflection, real-life challenges, and powerful mindset shifts. Whether you’re just getting started or wondering if freelancing is really possible for you, Alyssa’s journey proves it’s more than possible—it’s worth it.What You’ll Learn in This Episode About Building a Freelance Writing BusinessThe transition from nurse to writer: Alyssa shares how she discovered freelance writing after years in OB, NICU, and nursing education.Treating it like a business: She explains how shifting her mindset from “side gig” to “business” helped her replace her teaching income.Real-life balance: Alyssa gives us a look at her daily life as a part-time stay-at-home mom and full-time writer—complete with nap-time writing sessions and toddler cameos.The power of tracking income: Once she started tracking her projects and income, Alyssa realized she was making real money—and that gave her the confidence to keep going.Letting go of the wrong clients: Alyssa shares how dropping one draining client opened the door for better ones and gave her business new energy.Membership insights: She highlights how the Plan, Produce, Profit membership gave her clarity, support, and confidence through resources like templates, the writing skills course, and coaching calls.Advice for new writers: Just start. Reach out. Take the first step. The worst they can say is no.Looking ahead to 2026: Alyssa plans to finish the PPP course, revamp her website, and continue growing intentionally while balancing business and family life.Welcome to the Savvy Scribe Podcast, I'm so glad you're here! Before we start the show, if you're interested, we have a free Facebook group called "Savvy Nurse Writer Community"I appreciate you following me and listening today. I would LOVE for you to subscribe: ITUNESAnd if you love it, can I ask for a If you’re ready in exploring if freelance writing is your next PRN job or even full-time, I invite you to check out the Savvy Nurse Writer Community on Facebook and visit savvynursewriter.com to help you get started today!Support the showFOLLOW & REVIEW THE SAVVY SCRIBE ON APPLE PODCASTSI appreciate you following me and listening today. I would LOVE for you to subscribe: ITUNESAnd if you love it, can I ask for a review? Select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review.”If you’re ready to start exploring if freelance writing is your next PRN job or even full-time, I invite you to check out the Savvy Nurse Writer Community on Facebook and the Plan Produce Profit + Writing Skills Course to help you get started today!
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