avatarVince Lim

Summary

Rachel Peachey, a freelance writer specializing in education, edtech, and apps, shares her experiences and advice for aspiring writers, emphasizing the importance of perseverance and adaptability in writing.

Abstract

The article is an interview with Rachel Peachey, a writer with a background in Montessori teaching and a focus on educational content. She discusses the challenges of writing, particularly the struggle with inspiration and the difficulty of crafting introductions. Peachey cites "Women Who Run with the Wolves" by Clarissa Pinkola Estes as a highly inspiring book and advises writers to by the introduction if they're stuck and return to it later. She encourages aspiring writers to build their reputation through unpaid and low-paying work, to embrace criticism, and to persist in their craft. The interview is part of a series featuring writers on Medium, and readers are invited to connect with Peachey on LinkedIn.

Opinions

  • Peachey believes that overcoming the initial hurdle of inspiration is crucial for writing to flow smoothly.
  • She values the process of editing and taking criticism as a means to learn and improve as a writer.
  • Peachey is inspired by books that are uplifting and empowering, as evidenced by her admiration for "Women Who Run with the Wolves."
  • She advocates for a non-linear approach to writing, suggesting that the introduction need not be the starting point of an article.
  • Peachey encourages aspiring writers to be resilient, to start with pro bono work if necessary, and to gradually build a professional reputation in the writing industry.

Interview With a Writer: Rachel Peachey

Photo by Tim Mossholder on Unsplash

Who are you? What do you do?

I’m Rachel. I’m a freelance writer who specializes in education, edtech, and apps. My background as a former Montessori teacher helps me connect with both teachers and parents. I also have 3 kids of my own, ages 7, 4, and 1.

What’s the hardest part about writing?

Getting inspired. Once you push past that block, it flows. But sometimes, coming up with an approach, nailing an introduction, or finding an angle can make writing feel impossible.

What’s the most inspiring book you ever read?

This is a hard question. I have a lot of beloved books, but if I have to pick one, perhaps Women Who Run with the Wolves by Clarissa Pinkola Estes. I found it very inspiring and uplifting.

What’s the best piece of writing advice you ever received?

Don’t write the introduction or hook first. If you’re stuck on that, move on with the rest of your article and come back to the introduction when you’re done.

What advice would you give to an aspiring writer?

Don’t give up! Earn yourself a reputation any way you can with pro bono work, low-paying jobs, and build your way up. Take criticism and editing graciously — they’ll help you learn!

This is part of my “Interview with Writers” series on Medium.

If you wish to contact Rachel, you’re welcome to connect with her on LinkedIn.

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