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Ashley Brooks's avatar

What is it about building a freelance career that makes us so clingy? God basically had to pry my fingers off of my last few freelance editing clients when I was called elsewhere last fall. Although I genuinely do not miss writing those horrible blog posts. Why are they never hiring freelancers to write about cool fun stuff? Down with HR trends!

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Claire Swinarski's avatar

I knowwww. I think it's just hard to break out of the it-all-could-go-away-any-minute mindset, maybe...

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Dr. Sarah Denny Lorio's avatar

Claire, you probably don’t remember me, but I met you briefly when you were a FOCUS missionary at Tulane!

I just wanted to say how grateful I am for your work and your perseverance. Your writing is a gift! I am so excited for this new chapter for you! You, your work, and your love for books give me such hope. I’ve seen from the teacher/ethicist side what AI writing is/can do, and I just feel so encouraged by the power of the human heart and how you uniquely express yours. Cheering you on from New Orleans!

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Claire Swinarski's avatar

I most certainly do remember you! Thank you so much for the kind words, Sarah! :)

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Sarah Allen's avatar

I'm there with you--I just can't write any more about AI. And honestly I feel like even if I tried it would be spinning, because we just don't know. I don't think we can even guess how this is going to impact and change things, but humans will always humans. Have an amazing June!

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Wendi Nunnery's avatar

I can't wait to read your new book! It's the story I dreamed about as a middle schooler obsessed with Anne Frank and WWII. (Not much has changed.) Also, I just finished up Take It From the Top this week, and your ability to capture the tender awkwardness of that moment when a long-time friend goes quiet is *chef's kiss*. Have a great summer, Claire!

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Claire Swinarski's avatar

Thank you so, so much!

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Emily Williams's avatar

Is there by any chance a Spotify link to your playlist? Because I looove a playlist I don’t have to create myself 😆

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Naomi's avatar

Hi Claire,

I've read your news letters with a lot of interesr from the beginning. But today is the first time it really feels as if I'm reading letters from a friend. From very serious things (sex work) to more light hearted things (beer gardens) to a concern I share with you: AI. Thsnks for not only sharing your observations and opinions with with, but sharing a little bit about

your life as well!

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Afoma Umesi's avatar

I feel you!! My last (and favorite) client let me go in December 2024 and it’s been a kick up the rear to zone in on Reading Middle Grade as my full time gig. It’ll be amazing for you!!! I hope you write more on Substack—I love everything you write ❤️

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