The RN2writer Show

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About Ashley Hay: Ashley Hay, experienced registered nurse and owner of AHay Nursing, P.C. dedicated her career to both pediatric & adult oncology care. Dealing with progressive and chronic health issues of her own, she found a way to shift her path - merging passions for medical education and creative writing. She transitioned from bedside care to freelance medical writing, content consulting, and entrepreneurship. Ashley has successfully run her business since 2017.

Host Elizabeth Hanes BSN RN built a six-figure writing business in her spare time. Today, she coaches other nurses how to become freelance writers through the RN2writer project.

Topics discussed in this episode:

2:50 How did you get started?
5:30 Scientific Nurse Writing
9:49 How do you get into Content Consulting?
14:45 Articulating Your Added Value as a Nurse
18:50 Writing Job vs. Freelancing
25:45 How do you find time to work?
29:00 Shortening your learning curve

Resources mentioned in this episode:

Find Ashley here: https://ahaynursing.com/

RN2writer Daily: http://rn2writerdaily.com/

RN2writer: https://www.rn2writer.com/

Next steps

Download and listen to the podcast of this episode at RN2writer
Start your journey from nursing to writing with the ebook Design Your Dream Career as a Nurse Writer
Follow RN2writer on social media: Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn

Special thanks to:

Custom RN2writer theme music by https://www.podcastthemes.com/

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About Sharleen Lucas:

Sharleen Lucas is a registered nurse who worked at the hospital bedside for eight years. She now enjoys combating her addiction to health news and research by passing it on as a freelance health writer from her dream home in the Colorado Rockies. You can find her at RNextdoor.com

Host Elizabeth Hanes BSN RN built a six-figure writing business in her spare time. Today, she coaches other nurses how to become freelance writers through the RN2writer project.

Topics discussed in this episode:

1:47 How did you become a health writer?
4:40 Video scripting as a health writer
12:35 How to land more video scripting clients
13:40 How do you negotiate pricing for video scripting?
16:00 It’s all a journey!
18:25 Linking a video script as a clip for your website

Resources mentioned in this episode:

RN2writer Daily: http://rn2writerdaily.com/

RN2writer: https://www.rn2writer.com/

Google Trends: https://trends.google.com/trends/

Hubspot: https://blog.hubspot.com/

Next steps

Download and listen to the podcast of this episode at RN2writer
Start your journey from nursing to writing with the ebook Design Your Dream Career as a Nurse Writer
Follow RN2writer on social media: Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn

Special thanks to:

Custom RN2writer theme music by https://www.podcastthemes.com/

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In this episode of The RN2writer Show, Beth talks about how to plan your vacations as a freelance writer and communicate this with your clients.

Host Elizabeth Hanes BSN RN built a six-figure writing business in her spare time. Today, she coaches other nurses on how to become freelance writers through the RN2writer project.

Topics discussed in this episode:

How do I carve out time for a vacation? 1:35
On the health article writing side 3:50

Resources mentioned in this episode:

RN2writer Daily: http://rn2writerdaily.com/

RN2writer: https://www.rn2writer.com/

Next steps

Download and listen to the podcast of this episode at RN2writer
Start your journey from nursing to writing with the ebook Design Your Dream Career as a Nurse Writer
Follow RN2writer on social media: Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn

Special thanks to:

Custom RN2writer theme music by https://www.podcastthemes.com/

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About Dan Collins: Dan Collins is the Senior Director of Media Relations at Mercy Medical Center in Baltimore, MD, serving as the downtown hospital’s media liaison since 1996.

A former journalist with stints at The Washington Times, the Times Publishing Group, and The Baltimore Examiner, Dan oversees the Baltimore site for Broadwayworld.com as lead theater reviewer and contributes articles to The Beacon newspaper. Dan served as a member of the affiliate faculty at Loyola University in Baltimore where he taught an introductory public relations course for undergraduates for 11 years. A native of Baltimore, Dan has also worked in city and state government, as the Public Information Officer for the City of Thornton, CO, and as a public relations specialist for the Maryland State Highway Administration. He earned his B.A. from Loyola College and master’s degree from Johns Hopkins University.

Host Elizabeth Hanes BSN RN built a six-figure writing business in her spare time. Today, she coaches other nurses how to become freelance writers through the RN2writer project.

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Nurse writer Elizabeth Hanes RN discusses when it is appropriate to use a pen name, or pseudonym, when you are pursuing freelance writing.

Host Elizabeth Hanes BSN RN built a six-figure writing business in her spare time. Today, she coaches other nurses how to become freelance writers through the RN2writer project.

Topics discussed in this episode:

1:15 Can I use a pen name?
2:25 What does it mean to be a working writer?
3:00 Why use a pseudonym?

Resources mentioned in this episode:

RN2writer Daily: http://rn2writerdaily.com/

RN2writer: https://www.rn2writer.com/

Next steps

Download and listen to the podcast of this episode at RN2writer
Start your journey from nursing to writing with the ebook Design Your Dream Career as a Nurse Writer
Follow RN2writer on social media: Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn

Special thanks to:

Custom RN2writer theme music by https://www.podcastthemes.com/

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About Meredith Gordon Resnick: Meredith Gordon Resnick, L.C.S.W., worked in healthcare for two decades and maintains a strong interest in the expressive arts. She is the creator of ShameRecovery.com and The Writer's [Inner] Journey. Her work appears in the Washington Post, Newsweek, JAMA, Journal of Palliative Care.com, Los Angeles Times, Motherwell, Lilith, and others. Meredith created the "Surviving Narcissism" series and is co-author of the forthcoming All The Love: Healing Your Heart and Finding Meaning After Pregnancy Loss.

Host Elizabeth Hanes BSN RN built a six-figure writing business in her spare time. Today, she coaches other nurses how to become freelance writers through the RN2writer project.

Topics discussed in this episode:

3:33 Tour of Medical Editing Basics for Nurses course
5:00 How did you get into medical editing?
10:50 Prospecting as a Medical Writer
13:15 A World of Opportunities for Medical Editors
16:30 What does a Medical Editor do?
21:30 Guidelines and Style Guides
25:00 Why Medical Editing is the Perfect Adjunct to Nurse Writing
32:15 A Demand for People of Healthcare Backgrounds!
36:05 What is in the Medical Editing Course?

Resources mentioned in this episode:

Medical Editing Basics for Nurses: https://www.rn2writer.com/offers/LiNuyxCy/checkout

RN2writer Daily: http://rn2writerdaily.com/

RN2writer: https://www.rn2writer.com/

Next steps

Download and listen to the podcast of this episode at RN2writer
Start your journey from nursing to writing with the ebook Design Your Dream Career as a Nurse Writer
Follow RN2writer on social media: Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn

Special thanks to:

Custom RN2writer theme music by https://www.podcastthemes.com/

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About Sandra Pagenta: Sandra Pagenta is a Geriatric Nurse Practitioner, host of the Doctor Nurse Podcast, nursing influencer, and content creator. Her podcast features RNs and NPs using their degrees and certifications with a business mindset. She is a part-time Urologic Nurse Practitioner and loves taking care of veterans. With over 13 years of nursing experience, Sandra wants to provide a platform to increase awareness of how much you can do with a nursing license. Her mission is to uplift, empower, and advocate for RNs and NPs to enjoy the journey of their careers so that they can have a career and life that is lived to the fullest.

Currently, Sandra is focused on her family, podcast opportunities, and collaboration with other nurses. In her free time, she is learning to play piano and how to embroider.

Host Elizabeth Hanes BSN RN built a six-figure writing business in her spare time. Today, she coaches other nurses how to become freelance writers through the RN2writer project.

Topics discussed in this episode:

2:20 Nurse to Entrepreneur
8:53 Listen to your little voice
14:39 What is your motivation in empowering nurses to explore other career paths?
17:00 What are some other nurse entrepreneurs doing?
20:06 Starting your business as a side gig
25:25 Do what you love
28:20 How the nursing process can be taken universally

Resources mentioned in this episode:

The Doctor Nurse Podcast: https://linktr.ee/DoctorNursePodcast

The Doctor Nurse Podcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/doctornursepodcast/?hl=en

RN2writer Daily: http://rn2writerdaily.com/

RN2writer: https://www.rn2writer.com/

Next steps

Download and listen to the podcast of this episode at RN2writer
Start your journey from nursing to writing with the ebook Design Your Dream Career as a Nurse Writer
Follow RN2writer on social media: Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn

Special thanks to:

Custom RN2writer theme music by https://www.podcastthemes.com/

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About Liz George: Nurse Liz George believes storytelling is integral to health and well-being because it is how we shape and make sense of our world. Liz’s goal is always to present scientific information in a way that is factual, accessible, and engaging.

Liz has a Bachelor of Science degree in holistic nursing and is a certified public health nurse and lactation consultant. She uses this background and experience to provide family health and wellness information because families have the potential to change the world to create a better future for everyone. You can see Liz’s work at https://nurselizgeorge.com/work-samples.

Host Elizabeth Hanes BSN RN built a six-figure writing business in her spare time. Today, she coaches other nurses how to become freelance writers through the RN2writer project.

Topics discussed in this episode:

3:55 Branding for your target audience
12:00 Think in terms of nursing goals
16:40 Your role as a content writer
21:24 Betteridge’s Law of Headlines
28:40 Don’t miss an opportunity to sell on your About Page!

Resources mentioned in this episode:

RN2writer Daily: http://rn2writerdaily.com/

RN2writer: https://www.rn2writer.com/

Next steps

Download and listen to the podcast of this episode at RN2writer
Start your journey from nursing to writing with the ebook Design Your Dream Career as a Nurse Writer
Follow RN2writer on social media: Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn

Special thanks to:

Custom RN2writer theme music by https://www.podcastthemes.com/

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About Vincent Wondra: Vincent has been working with web technologies since 1996. Over the years, he has worked for a variety of consulting companies, spent a few years with IBM, and has served as CTO (Chief Technical Officer) for several internet companies.

Vincent founded The BBS Agency in 2013. He has worked with numerous businesses, built thousands of websites, and has played a vital role in their growth story.

Host Elizabeth Hanes BSN RN built a six-figure writing business in her spare time. Today, she coaches other nurses how to become freelance writers through the RN2writer project.

Topics discussed in this episode:

1:55 When starting out, is a website essential?
7:25 Are DIY websites worth your time?
12:40 Updating your website
16:00 Why your business goals matter when building your website
26:32 Website costs
31:00 Why your website host is important

Resources mentioned in this episode:

The BBS Agency: https://thebbsagency.com/

Prebuilt Sites: https://prebuiltsites.com/

RN2writer: https://www.rn2writer.com/

Next steps

Download and listen to the podcast of this episode at RN2writer
Start your journey from nursing to writing with the ebook Design Your Dream Career as a Nurse Writer
Follow RN2writer on social media: Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn

Special thanks to:

Custom RN2writer theme music by https://www.podcastthemes.com/

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About Robby Scholes: Robby Scholes is from Conway, South Carolina. He is a graduate of the University of South Carolina in Economics and Finance. He is also a Certified Financial Planner (CFP®). Robby understands the intricacies of the capital markets and helps clients make smart investment decisions.

Host Elizabeth Hanes BSN RN built a six-figure writing business in her spare time. Today, she coaches other nurses how to become freelance writers through the RN2writer project.

Topics discussed in this episode:

2:15 What retirement options are there for self employed people?
8:19 Does your business structure affect your retirement options?
14:13 What if I had a pension through nursing?
19:20 Fees when setting up your retirement
23:00 Where should you look for financial planning?

Resources mentioned in this episode:

RN2writer: https://www.rn2writer.com/

Next steps

Download and listen to the podcast of this episode at RN2writer
Start your journey from nursing to writing with the ebook Design Your Dream Career as a Nurse Writer
Follow RN2writer on social media: Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn

Special thanks to:

Custom RN2writer theme music by https://www.podcastthemes.com/

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Beth answers more questions about cultivating relationships with clients this holiday season on The RN2writer Show!

Host Elizabeth Hanes BSN RN built a six-figure writing business in her spare time. Today, she coaches other nurses how to become freelance writers through the RN2writer project.

Topics discussed in this episode:

1:20 Send your gifts earlier or later than usual
2:11 Stand out from the pack
3:17 Don’t send controversial gifts
4:33 How to send something to a client without an address

Resources mentioned in this episode:

RN2writer: https://www.rn2writer.com/

Sugarwish: https://sugarwish.com/

Next steps

Download and listen to the podcast of this episode at RN2writer
Start your journey from nursing to writing with the ebook Design Your Dream Career as a Nurse Writer
Follow RN2writer on social media: Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn

Special thanks to:

Custom RN2writer theme music by https://www.podcastthemes.com/

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It’s that time of year nurse writers! Should you send gifts to your clients? When is it appropriate to send a gift to a client? Beth gives her insight on this week’s episode of The RN2writer Show!

Host Elizabeth Hanes BSN RN built a six-figure writing business in her spare time. Today, she coaches other nurses how to become freelance writers through the RN2writer project.

Topics discussed in this episode:

1:10 There is no expectation for freelance writers to give gifts
2:15 The financial health of your business
3:07 Value of the client relationship
4:06 Personal relationship to client
5:07 Your personal principles about gift giving

Resources mentioned in this episode:

RN2writer: https://www.rn2writer.com/

Next steps

Download and listen to the podcast of this episode at RN2writer
Start your journey from nursing to writing with the ebook Design Your Dream Career as a Nurse Writer
Follow RN2writer on social media: Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn

Special thanks to:

Custom RN2writer theme music by https://www.podcastthemes.com/

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About Jason Deshayes, CPA/PFS, CFP®: Jason is the is the Director of Tax Planning at Cook Wealth in Raleigh. Cook Wealth helps clients with; everyday finances, family legacy planning, tax planning, debt management, investment management, cash flow optimization, business transactions and basically anything financially related.

Jason has a wealth of knowledge and experience in accounting and finance. Before joining Cook Wealth Jason worked as an Accounting Advisory Senior Manager with Elliot Davis and as a Senior Manager with the Association of International Certified Professional Accountants where he focused on firm relations and firm succession resources.

Prior to that, Jason worked in public accounting for 14 years, five of which were as an owner in a small boutique firm in Albuquerque, NM. He provided tax, accounting and consulting advice to individuals and closely-held businesses, with a focus on professional services, medical and veterinary practices, individual taxation and business start-ups.

Jason has served in several leadership roles in every community he has lived in. In North Carolina, he currently serves as a member of the Rotary Club of Cary and as the Treasurer of the Small Firm & Technology Leadership committee at the North Carolina Bar Association. In New Mexico, Jason served on the board for New Mexico Health Connections, the President of Alta Mira of New Mexico, President of the Active 20-30 Club of Albuquerque and National President of Active 20-30 Club US & Canada.

In 2011, Jason was honored as one of New Mexico's "40 under Forty" by the New Mexico Business Weekly. In 2015, 2016 and 2017, he was named to CPA Practice Advisor’s 40 Under 40. Outside of the office, Jason enjoys spending time with his wife, Tina, his sons, Levi and Micah, and their daughter Glory and their dogs.

Besides spending time with his family, Jason likes travelling, acrylic painting and is an avid bike rider.

Host Elizabeth Hanes BSN RN built a six-figure writing business in her spare time. Today, she coaches other nurses how to become freelance writers through the RN2writer project.

Topics discussed in this episode:

4:02 What do CPA, PFS, and CFP stand for?
5:54 What can a CPA help you with before you generate income?
9:30 How can freelancers figure this out on their own?
13:30 Do I need to setup a business entity before I start?
21:55 What is the difference between a bookkeeper and accountant?
27:35 Should you make a budget for your business?
32:42 Where can someone find a CPA?

Resources mentioned in this episode:

RN2writer: https://www.rn2writer.com/

Quickbooks: https://quickbooks.intuit.com/

Jason Deshayes, CPA/PFS, CFP®: https://cookwealth.com/jason-deshayes/

Sarah Lay Bookkeeping: https://srlaccounting.com/

Next steps

Download and listen to the podcast of this episode at RN2writer
Start your journey from nursing to writing with the ebook Design Your Dream Career as a Nurse Writer
Follow RN2writer on social media: Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn

Special thanks to:

Custom RN2writer theme music by https://www.podcastthemes.com/

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Could set rates be detrimental to your freelance business? Elizabeth goes over set rates, productization, and negotiation in this week’s episode of The RN2writer Show!

Host Elizabeth Hanes BSN RN built a six-figure writing business in her spare time. Today, she coaches other nurses how to become freelance writers through the RN2writer project.

Topics discussed in this episode:

1:30 What is “Productization”?
2:33 “Take it or leave it” situations
4:10 Every client wants something different
6:55 Clients who ask for bundle discounts
9:38 Leave room for negotiation
10:55 It’s YOUR business!

Resources mentioned in this episode:

RN2writer: https://www.rn2writer.com/

RN2writer STAT: Next-Level Coaching to Grow Your Business to Six Figures Faster:

https://go.rn2writer.com/stat-program

Next steps

Download and listen to the podcast of this episode at RN2writer
Start your journey from nursing to writing with the ebook Design Your Dream Career as a Nurse Writer
Follow RN2writer on social media: Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn

Special thanks to:

Custom RN2writer theme music by https://www.podcastthemes.com/

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What is an LOI, and why does it play a major part in freelance writing? In today’s episode of The RN2writer Show, Elizabeth Hanes BSN RN discusses what an LOI is and shows you how to write one!

Host Elizabeth Hanes BSN RN built a six-figure writing business in her spare time. Today, she coaches other nurses how to become freelance writers through the RN2writer project.

Topics discussed in this episode:

1:00 What is an LOI?
2:09 Why are LOIs important?
3:11 What an LOI is NOT
6:06 Not an employer-employee relationship
7:50 Example of an LOI
8:37 What to write if you don’t have experience
11:45 Special bonus for our listeners!

Resources mentioned in this episode:

RN2writer: https://www.rn2writer.com/

Free LOI Template: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1_tjbnRDmc6ntmitz0OmZQxjORqQgJa25/edit?usp=sharing&ouid=117077450628032233660&rtpof=true&sd=true

Next steps

Download and listen to the podcast of this episode at RN2writer
Start your journey from nursing to writing with the ebook Design Your Dream Career as a Nurse Writer
Follow RN2writer on social media: Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn

Special thanks to:

Custom RN2writer theme music by https://www.podcastthemes.com/

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Is it possible to do too much research when writing for a client? In today’s episode of The RN2writer Show, Elizabeth Hanes BSN RN lists 3 things to think about when researching for your written pieces.

Host Elizabeth Hanes BSN RN built a six-figure writing business in her spare time. Today, she coaches other nurses how to become freelance writers through the RN2writer project.

Topics discussed in this episode:

2:20 What is an effective hourly rate?
3:21 Why your audience matters
5:18 Think about the length of the piece
5:58 How your pay affects your research

Resources mentioned in this episode:

RN2writer: https://www.rn2writer.com/

Complete Guide to Content Marketing Writing for Nurses: https://go.rn2writer.com/webinar-registration-a

RN2writer STAT: Next-Level Coaching to Grow Your Business to Six Figures Faster:

https://go.rn2writer.com/stat-program

Next steps

Download and listen to the podcast of this episode at RN2writer
Start your journey from nursing to writing with the ebook Design Your Dream Career as a Nurse Writer
Follow RN2writer on social media: Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn

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In today’s episode, Elizabeth Hanes BSN RN answers one of RN2writer’s most frequently asked questions: Do I have to be a nurse to do this? Find out the answer to that popular question and more.

Host Elizabeth Hanes BSN RN built a six-figure writing business in her spare time. Today, she coaches other nurses how to become freelance writers through the RN2writer project.

Topics discussed in this episode:

0:51 Do I have to be a registered nurse?
2:00 What makes this special for nurses?
3:45 Why are nurses in high demand?

Resources mentioned in this episode:

RN2writer: https://www.rn2writer.com/

Next steps

Download and listen to the podcast of this episode at RN2writer
Start your journey from nursing to writing with the ebook Design Your Dream Career as a Nurse Writer
Follow RN2writer on social media: Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn

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In today’s episode, Sarah Steensen shares her pitch for a dynamite article idea. What makes a query letter stand out? How much information should you share with a potential editor? Find out what the best practices are when pitching an article!

Host Elizabeth Hanes BSN RN built a six-figure writing business in her spare time. Today, she coaches other nurses how to become freelance writers through the RN2writer project.

Topics discussed in this episode:

3:00 what is a query letter?
8:23 How to write a strong introduction
10:15 Don’t make this mistake when pitching!
11:55 Be straightforward in your title
12:45 What information should you share with the editor?
17:46 Should you say that you are a full time RN?

Resources mentioned in this episode:

RN2writer: https://www.rn2writer.com/

Next steps

Download and listen to the podcast of this episode at RN2writer
Start your journey from nursing to writing with the ebook Design Your Dream Career as a Nurse Writer
Follow RN2writer on social media: Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn

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Elizabeth Hanes BSN RN cracks open the books on this week’s episode of The RN2writer Show to reveal how she made over $100,000 a year as a freelance writer. Check out how many clients, projects, and hours it takes to make six figures as a freelance writer.

Host Elizabeth Hanes BSN RN built a six-figure writing business in her spare time. Today, she coaches other nurses how to become freelance writers through the RN2writer project.

Topics discussed in this episode:

1:06 Can you really make six figures as a nurse writer?
1:37 The 2 key factors to making six figures
3:15 Breaking down income goals
4:18 Breaking down Beth’s successful months
12:49 How hard do you have to work in a successful month?

Resources mentioned in this episode:

RN2writer: https://www.rn2writer.com/

Next steps

Download and listen to the podcast of this episode at RN2writer
Start your journey from nursing to writing with the ebook Design Your Dream Career as a Nurse Writer
Follow RN2writer on social media: Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn

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Episode summary:

About Marijke Vroomen Durning: Marijke Vroomen Durning went into nursing right after high school, which in Quebec is at age 17. After many years of working at the bedside and as a clinical supervisor and instructor, she began writing and editing medical and health information around 1993. After dislocating her shoulder in a freak accident, Marijke gave up clinical work permanently in 2010 and focused on writing and editing ever since.

She has written for various print and online outlets, such as Costco Connection, Forbes.com, Parade, Memorial Sloan Kettering, and more, and is currently the Director of Content for Sepsis Alliance. When asked for an elevator pitch, Marijke usually says that health writing is like the patient bedside teaching nurses are supposed to do, but never really have time for. And instead of sharing information one patient and family at a time, she's reaching thousands of people.

Host Elizabeth Hanes BSN RN built a six-figure writing business in her spare time. Today, she coaches other nurses how to become freelance writers through the RN2writer project.

Topics discussed in this episode:

2:25 How did Marijke discover the world of nurse writing?
6:27 What does a managing editor do?
7:44 What makes an LOI stand out?
12:00 When “your first interview” REALLY starts
15:44 What do freelancers do that drive you insane?
25:25 Editor for Sepsis Alliance
31:13 Freelancing from another country
34:50 Does your education level affect your success?

Resources mentioned in this episode:

Grammarly: https://www.grammarly.com/
RN2writer STAT Program: https://go.rn2writer.com/stat-program
Sepsis Alliance: https://www.sepsis.org/

Next steps

Download and listen to the podcast of this episode at RN2writer
Start your journey from nursing to writing with the ebook Design Your Dream Career as a Nurse Writer
Follow RN2writer on social media: Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn

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Launching a freelance writing career is all fun and games…until you find yourself overwhelmed with choices about “what to do next.” That was the decidedly UN-fun situation Brandy Hall RN found herself in after she launched her freelance career and started to plot a course for her business. Should she work on her LOIs? Write some articles for LinkedIn? Finish and publish her website?

It’s very easy to get ensnared in what Brandy characterized as a “cycle of paralysis.” If you find yourself there, too, this episode will not only provide you with emotional comfort but also help you figure out how to assign priorities to the many tasks required to launch your writing business or propel it forward.

Guest Brandy Hall is a Nurse Writer who established The Writing RN to provide health and wellness content to businesses in the medical, health, and wellness specialties. Brandy has over 15 years of experience as a nurse, which drives her love of helping others through educating on health information.

As the mom of two girls, ages 13 and almost 2, a military spouse, and stepmom of two, Brandy followed her passions of being creative, writing, and caring for others as an opportunity to be more family-focused and pursued her own business. This also allowed her to do other things she enjoys like traveling, learning, reading, and fitness.

Host Elizabeth Hanes BSN RN built a six-figure writing business in her spare time. Today, she coaches other nurses how to become freelance writers through the RN2writer project.

Topics discussed in this episode

Here’s what Brandy and I chatted about:

How Brandy unfortunately got her head filled with “noise” from self-anointed freelancing experts on the internet and subsequently became frozen [06:18]
Persistence is the key to success in freelancing [07:49]
How common is this feeling of “what do I need to do next?” among aspiring nurse writers? [08:20]
The three things every nurse writer needs to do when they’re first getting started [08:50]
The fastest way to get work samples [09:47]
Why it’s imperative you have at least a basic website for your writing business [10:53]
The biggest mistake novice freelance writers make when publishing LinkedIn articles [11:37]
Exactly how to leverage your clinical niches to find clients [14:22]

Resources mentioned in this episode

Brandy’s LinkedIn profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brandy-hall/

The Complete Guide to Content Marketing Writing for Nurses course (free webinar): https://go.rn2writer.com/webinar-registration

Allnurses.com: https://allnurses.com

RN2writer STAT: Next-Level Coaching to Grow Your Business to Six Figures Faster: https://go.rn2writer.com/stat-sales-page-a

Next steps

Download and listen to the podcast of this episode at RN2writer
Start your journey from nursing to writing with the ebook Design Your Dream Career as a Nurse Writer
Follow RN2writer on social media: Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn

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Leaving the bedside can be scary, but it also can pay huge dividends in quality of life and finding your passion for nursing again. So says nurse writer Shannon Goldrick MSN RN in this great interview that covers topics like why nurses can excel at creating both patient- and clinician-facing content, what the demand for nurse writers is really like in the medical app community, and what it’s like to work from Belgium!

About Shannon Goldrick MSN RN: Shannon Goldrick is a registered nurse with a passion for global health and preventative health initiatives. Her work experience includes working in a neurosurgical intensive care unit at a level I trauma center in New York State (and more recently- the COVID-19 intensive care units). Over the last two years, Shannon has transitioned to working full time for the company MedicalVisual, a digital heart-health platform and trusted resource for cardiovascular disease and diabetes information.

Shannon received her baccalaureate degree in nursing from the University of Connecticut @ Storrs and her MSN with a specialization in nursing education at Sacred Heart University. She is an avid traveler, loves spending time in the great outdoors, and is THRILLED to have some downtime to enjoy life now that she has completed her masters degree.

Host Elizabeth Hanes BSN RN built a six-figure writing business in her spare time. Today, she coaches other nurses how to become freelance writers through the RN2writer project.

Topics discussed in this episode

Here’s what Shannon and I chatted about:

How Shannon discovered nurse writing as a career option [04:07]
Proof any nurse can start writing on the side, no matter how cram-packed their schedule may be [09:41]
The legal and tax implications of working as an expat [12:59]
What is the demand for nurse writers in the app community? [18:00]
What types of content can nurses write for medical apps? [18:32]
Why nurses can excel at creating content for both patient and clinician audiences [18:53]
Is it really possible for a nurse to be successful as a writer without any prior professional writing experience? [21:10]
Is it disingenuous to use creative copywriting techniques to get readers to click on a headline or social media link? [21:29]
The challenges of switching from an academic writing mindset to consumer health writing [25:28]
How working with a medical app has reinfused Shannon’s passion for nursing [29:54]
Shannon’s advice for getting started as a nurse writer [33:01]

Quotable

“I was working night shift, I was in school, and I was [writing] as a side gig.” ~ Shannon Goldrick MSN RN

“You definitely should check in with a lawyer, because if you’re in a country [working as a writer] for a certain amount of time, you definitely have to pay the taxes there.” ~Shannon Goldrick MSN RN

“There are so many medical apps out there that need nurse writers. If you think about it, we’re the ones educating patients, families, other clinicians, so why not translate that knowledge into writing?” ~Shannon Goldrick MSN RN

“Someone in – let’s just say – marketing, they don’t have that experience and background to know exactly what a patient might understand versus a clinician.” ~Shannon Goldrick MSN RN

“I have learned most of this on the job. I’ve had a few great mentors that have guided me through.” ~Shannon Goldrick MSN RN

“I do find that some nurses are hesitant to use copywriting techniques – calls to action, for example – but we can’t help those patients or those professionals if we never get them to come to our content.” ~ Elizabeth Hanes BSN RN

“This type of work has made me so passionate about my career again. I’m not going to lie: I was a bit burnt out after working in the COVID units, and this allows me to go out there and tackle global health issues and disparities in a different way than what I’m used to – and on a large scale.” ~Shannon Goldrick MSN RN

“My quality of life has improved a ton by making this career change [to writing]. ~Shannon Goldrick MSN RN

Resources mentioned in this episode

CardioVisual: https://cardiovisual.com/

CardioVisual on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cardiovisual/?hl=en

Next steps

Download and listen to the podcast of this episode at RN2writer
Start your journey from nursing to writing with the ebook Design Your Dream Career as a Nurse Writer
Follow RN2writer on social media: Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn

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Content expert Marna Palmer works with nurse writers frequently in her role at studioID. Learn what she seeks in a “unicorn” freelance writer.

Episode Summary

Marna Palmer is the Director of Operations at studioID, a major content marketing agency and brand studio. Every day she works with clinician writers and has some great insights into how nurses can differentiate themselves in LOIs, what studioID looks for in a nurse writer, and exactly what you should do when following up on an LOI to rise to the top of the list.

About Marna Palmer: If Marna could create her own business card it would say "Professional Cat Herder," as that has been the most consistent theme of her career; from celebrities to creatives, she finds talent, helps it grow and assists in keeping everyone organized while making money in the process. She spent the first 10 years of her career as a talent agent in Los Angeles negotiating commercial endorsements for her celebrity clients. She then went to the other side of the desk and joined a marketing startup, where she led the publishing team's B2C digital marketing efforts and thus began her work with freelance writers. Since then, she has worked with content creators of all kinds around the world; at companies in Los Angeles, Oslo, Norway and now at studioID in Washington, DC.

Host Elizabeth Hanes BSN RN built a six-figure writing business in her spare time. Today, she coaches other nurses how to become freelance writers through the RN2writer project.

Topics discussed in this episode

Here’s a sampling of what you can learn in this episode:

The huge role that clips and a portfolio play in whether or not an agency brings you on as a writer [6:06]
Why showcasing your subject matter expertise as a nurse can win you a role with an agency [8:20]
How studioID built such an amazing culture by seeking input from their freelance writers [9:59]
What is the distinction between B2C and B2B marketing? [11:01]
What are the top three attributes of the “unicorn” freelancer? [14:58]
How nurses can use content marketing to elevate their own brand [20:02]
The importance of having an online presence [21:14]
What is the real future of healthcare content marketing? Is this a bad time to jump in as a nurse writer? [24:06]
Should aspiring content marketing writers develop their journalism skills? [26:16]
The best way to follow up on LOIs without being annoying [27:45]

Quotable

“As someone who’s looking for freelance writers, if I go onto someone’s LinkedIn profile and I don’t see anything, I’m like, ‘Ooh.’ Or if I Google them, and I can’t find a website, I have no idea if I should take a chance on them.” – Marna Palmer, studioID

“There are so many non-writing skills that are equally or more important to editors and clients: being easygoing, being flexible, being fun to work with, meeting the deadline. Writing skill – while you need it, and you should continue to hone it – is not at the top of the list of what clients value necessarily in a nurse who writes.” – Elizabeth Hanes

“Prospective clients are not going to look at your blog to see how well you write. They’re going to look to see if you’re up on the industry trends, and do you know what’s going on in the industry, and then how are you explaining that through your prose.” – Elizabeth Hanes

“I think the content marketing industry in healthcare is just going to constantly expand. I don’t think there’s every going to be a shortage of [writing opportunities].” – Marna Palmer, studioID

“If you’re showing up in my inbox at a reasonable cadence with relevant content so that I don’t have to go [searching] on LinkedIn, you’re making my life easier.” – Marna Palmer, studioID

Resources mentioned in this episode

studioID: https://www.studioid.com/

Industry Dive: https://www.industrydive.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com

Next steps

Download and listen to the podcast of this episode at RN2writer
Start your journey from nursing to writing with the ebook Design Your Dream Career as a Nurse Writer
Follow RN2writer on social media: Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn

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Letter of Introduction Critique, featuring nurse writer Sheila Burns

In this episode, novice nurse writer Sheila Burns bravely shares the Letter of Introduction (LOI) she’s been sending to potential clients. Why isn’t it generating any responses? Is it long enough? Too long? Does it miss the mark?

Get the answers along with Sheila as Beth provides her feedback to improve this LOI.

Host Elizabeth Hanes BSN RN built a six-figure writing business in her spare time. Today, she coaches other nurses how to become freelance writers through the RN2writer project.

Topics discussed in this episode

Here’s a sampling of what you can learn in this episode:

How strong is this email subject line? [4:06]
The missing component: What’s in it for the recipient? [6:33]
How to address the recipient’s “pain points” [7:23]
How can you know the recipient’s pain points are? [7:46]
Lead with the paint points and benefits [9:52]
Personalize the LOI just enough [11:12]

Resources mentioned in this episode

RN2writer: https://rn2writer.com

Next steps

Download and listen to the podcast of this episode at the RN2writer website (or find it on Apple Podcasts or Spotify): https://www.rn2writer.com/podcasts/the-rn2writer-show
Start your journey from nursing to writing with the ebook Design Your Dream Career as a Nurse Writer: https://go.rn2writer.com/dydc
Follow @RN2writer on social media: Instagram, Facebook, Twitter

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Episode title: Style Guides for Nurse Writers

Many nurses tell me they don’t feel they’re good enough with grammar to become a professional writer. Well, on this episode I’m revealing the nurse writer’s secret weapon that relieves you of the burden of needing to be an expert grammarian to succeed in this industry.

Episode Summary

Let’s talk about style guides: What are they? What function do they serve? Where do you get them?

In this tutorial, I’m telling you everything you need to know about how to use this tool to guide all of the grammar, punctuation, and usage decisions you’ll need to make when writing for clients. Plus, get a bonus tip at the end to make grammatically correct writing a breeze.

Host Elizabeth Hanes BSN RN built a six-figure writing business in her spare time. Today, she coaches other nurses how to become freelance writers through the RN2writer project.

Topics discussed in this episode

Here’s a sampling of what you can learn in this episode:

Pop Quiz! Which of these examples is punctuated correctly? [00:50]
What is a style guide? [1:30]
Why does written content need to be consistent in its voice and tone, anyway? [2:15]
What the heck is an ‘Oxford comma’?? [3:28]
Why is a style guide important to you, as a nurse writer? [4:01]
The importance of checking your grammar prejudices at the door [4:20]
Where to get style guides [5:02]

Quotable

“Some people seem to think that the grammar they learned in high school or college is the ‘one, true grammar’ and everything else is ‘wrong,’ but that’s just not true.” – Elizabeth Hanes

“Two sentences can be punctuated differently and still both be correct.” – Elizabeth Hanes

“You do not have to be an expert grammarian to succeed as a writer; you only have to be able to follow a style guide.” – Elizabeth Hanes

Resources mentioned in this episode

Associated Press Stylebook: https://www.apstylebook.com/

Chicago Manual of Style: https://www.chicagomanualofstyle.org/home.html

Styleguard plugin: https://styleguard.com/

RN2writer: https://rn2writer.com

Next steps

Download and listen to the podcast of this episode at the RN2writer website (or find it on Apple Podcasts or Spotify): https://www.rn2writer.com/podcasts/the-rn2writer-show
Start your journey from nursing to writing with the ebook Design Your Dream Career as a Nurse Writer: https://go.rn2writer.com/dydc
Follow @RN2writer on social media: Instagram, Facebook, Twitter

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Episode 1: Interview with nurse author Jennifer L.W. Fink

Episode title: RN2writer Interviews Nurse Author Jennifer L.W. Fink BSN RN

Introduction: Successful freelance nurse writer and author Jennifer L.W. Fink BSN RN of Building Boys and the ON BOYS parenting podcast shares tips and strategies from her own career to help aspiring nurse writers find success.

Podcast episode summary

Several years into her nursing career, Jennifer L.W. Fink found herself unenthused about the clinical pathways available to her. As she contemplated her future, she stumbled across a book on how to become a freelance writer – and it was authored by a nurse. That book changed the trajectory of Jennifer’s career, leading her to success as a nurse writer, author, and leading expert on parenting boys. In this episode, Jennifer shares lots of meaty tips and strategies for nurses just beginning their journey as a freelance writer.

Jennifer L.W. Fink BSN RN is a Registered Nurse-turned-writer. She’s the creator of BuildingBoys.net, co-host of the ON BOYS parenting podcast and author of The First-Time Mom’s Guide to Raising Boys. Jennifer has been published by The New York Times, U.S. News & World Report, The Washington Post, FOX News, Parents, Cancer Today and Medscape.

Host Elizabeth Hanes BSN RN built a six-figure writing business in her spare time. Today, she coaches other nurses how to become freelance writers through the RN2writer project.

Topics discussed in this episode

Here’s a sampling of what you can learn in this episode:

We know people respect nurses, but do they also respect writers? [08:01]
Why it’s a smart business strategy to pitch articles based on your personal health issues [11:15]
The value of the insider knowledge nurses bring to the table as writers [14:42]
How starting a writing business on the side and gradually transitioning out of nursing worked for Jennifer [15:07]
Why your educational level and nursing credentials don’t really matter in writing [16:18]
Do the initials after your name really matter, as a writer? [18:00]
Why Jennifer opted not to include “BSN RN” on her book cover [19:29]
Why nurses excel as interviewers, which a valuable commodity as a writer [33:45]
The financial realities of freelance writing: Can you really make a living at it? [36:40]

Quotable

“As much as people respect nurses – and we all know that nursing still ranks up there super-high for trust and honesty – people respect writers, too. People think writing is a pretty cool gig.” – Jennifer L.W. Fink BSN RN

“As things would come up in my professional life and personal life, I would try to pitch them as ideas. [This way] I could turn [these health issues] into a professional accomplishment AND a paycheck.” – Jennifer L.W. Fink BSN RN

“The truth is that writing is one of the few careers with a very low barrier to entry. You don’t need a degree in anything – nobody’s checking.” – Jennifer L.W. Fink BSN RN

“[I want your listeners to] realize that – at this moment – you are listening to two of us who have DONE this! It’s so doable! There is nothing extraordinary about me as a nurse or as a human being that made this more of a possibility for me than for any other person.” – Jennifer L.W. Fink BSN RN

Resources mentioned in this episode

The First-Time Mom’s Guide to Raising Boys, by Jennifer L.W. Fink

ON BOYS parenting podcast

BuildingBoys.net

RN2writer.com

Next steps

Watch the video version of this episode on the RN2writer Show channel
Start your journey from nursing to writing with the ebook Design Your Dream Career as a Nurse Writer
Follow RN2writer on social media: Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn

The First-Time Mom's Guide to Raising Boys: Practical Advice for Your Son's Formative Years (First Time Moms)

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The RN2writer Show helps nurses and other clinicians learn how to become freelance writers. And, NO, you don't have to be an RN! LPNs, LVNs, NPs, APRNs - all nurses welcome! (And, to be honest, we welcome non-nurse clinicians, too, such as PAs, LCSWs, MDs - anyone with a healthcare background who wants to be a writer is welcome to join us.) Here's what you can expect in each weekly episode: • Interviews with successful nurse writers to inspire you and help you see the possibilities for this career path • Interviews with experts – editors and content directors – to demystify the writing industry and share their secrets for what makes someone their “go-to” freelance writer • 10-minute coaching sessions, where Beth sits down with a nurse writer via Zoom and blasts through any obstacle that’s impeding their progress • Tutorials that walk you through common freelance tasks • Occasional glimpses into La Vida Freelance – to illustrate the fabulous lifestyle a writing career can afford you Don't forget to subscribe!

The RN2writer Show: Recent Episodes

Elizabeth Hanes, BSN RN