CREATIVE CORNER AUTHOR INTERVIEW SERIES
Hang Out With Pro-Marketer Turned Pro-Writer Ash Jurberg Author of Sex Research Book Come Again
“Don’t write for the money, don’t compare yourself to others, don’t copy what everyone else is doing.”
When I virtually met Ash Jurberg in the beginning of the 2020 Covid-19 pandemic, I admired his tenacity, humor, and machine-like output.
It also seemed like he knew a lot of shit about a lot of shit.
And, he does.
Ash is a well-traveled (over 100 countries y’all!) Aussie who pivoted from a travel marketing job to a professional writing career during the pandemic.
Since 2020, he’s not only seen his professional writing career grow by leaps and bounds but he’s also stayed down-to-earth along the way.
Ash and Kelly Eden run Inspired Writer on this platform and have been offering free and paid mentoring for new and intermediate writers for over a year.
He’s also written a book called Come Again?* Ash is fascinated with sex research and this book is full of it.
Now, let’s see what Ash has to say about professional writing.
Why do you write creative nonfiction?The answer is in the “creative” part. I love being creative, looking at topics from a different angle and trying to be unique. CNF allows me to use my unique voice in a way most other writing doesn't.
Plus I can write whatever I want.
When and how did you break into creative nonfiction?Always loved writing but never took it seriously.
When COVID hit, my business couldn't operate so I had to do something to fill in time and earn money.
So I turned to writing. And have never looked back.
Writing 1. COVID 0.
Where have you learned the most about creative nonfiction? For example, from reading other writers, advanced education, workshops, or elsewhere? For aspiring writers, are there workshops you would recommend?I have learned the most from reading and talking to other writers. The writing community is supportive and unlike most others. People love to help each other and offer advice. I was lucky to find a mentor early- Kelly Eden- who helped me and in turn I’ve tried to help and mentor others as I have grown.
I haven't taken any workshops — but I have run several writing communities. I run Writing Club with Kelly which is a space for writers to connect, learn, and offer feedback and support.
Who are your 3 favorite creative nonfiction writers?Sean Kernan. Carlyn Beccia. Kelly Eden. Joe Duncan.
Oh, that’s four. Well I’m a writer, not a mathematician. Honestly, I could list another 20.
What are your tips on writing astounding creative non-fiction?Don’t write for the money, don’t compare yourself to others, don’t copy what everyone else is doing.
Do engage with the community, do find a mentor, do find your own voice.
Write for the reader- a lot of new writing submissions I see read like a diary.
Less I and more YOU
Most importantly- have fun.
What are the pitfalls to avoid in creative nonfiction?Too many writers submit CNF that reads like a diary entry. Readers don’t know who you are, and to be honest, don’t care. The challenge is to make it sound interesting and get the reader engaged.
When I write, I like to imagine the reader. If they are thinking, “so what?” then I need to do a rewrite, so I don’t lose the reader.
Also, write like you to talk. Throwing in big words doesn’t impress people. It’s not Scrabble. Imagine you are sitting at a cafe or bar and talking to someone.
Now write like that.
What are your future projects?
Buying Twitter.
I just released my first book Come Again? And would love to do another.
Writing a movie about completing this interview form.
Author Information
Ash Jurberg is a writer, comedian, entrepreneur, and world traveler. A prolific online writer known for his sharp humor, he has just released his debut book on Amazon. His storytelling ability has been refined on stage, at conferences, and in words for many years. He has visited 105 countries and is welcome back in many of them.
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