AWAI Success Stories
Looking for a little inspiration? Read some of our most recent success stories below.
And if you want to meet some of the AWAI Members who are now living the writer’s life thanks to their hard work and dedicated persistence, be sure and read our case studies.
Living the Writer's Life: Mary Guinane
Like many Barefoot Writers, Mary Guinane enjoyed writing from an early age and always felt pulled in that direction. But once she started writing as a career, she settled into the rewarding work of the nonprofit world. Read on to discover how this journey has shaped her for the long term, why it led to a sweet connection with her brother, and what she’s doing to pass the torch to new writers.
Living the Writer's Life: Joseph Ciccanti
As a man with multiple interests and a keen sense of duty toward his family, Joseph Ciccanti has found that writing is unquestionably his ideal profession. Not only has it given him a way to bridge his interests and professional training with an enjoyable way to make an income, but it also serves up time to delve into gratitude and self-care. As a result, he enjoys peace, balance, and the ability to make time for those who matter.
Living the Writer's Life: Jeff Stasiuk
Jeff Stasiuk had wanted to be a writer since grade school. But that dream got shelved while he worked at a traditional job. Read on to discover the confluence of forces that led him to copywriting, and why he no longer has to wait for life to get good.
Living the Writer's Life: Stella Bouldin
When a fortuitous layoff forced Stella Bouldin to lean in to what she really wanted from life, she began by exploring different countries. But the appeal of not having to get up early for a job led her to look for more flexible opportunities, and getting paid to write for a living was the most appealing. Discover how she’s made the most of her writing lifestyle and why it allows her to continue to travel the globe.
Living the Writer's Life: Andrew Murray
When I spoke with Andrew Murray from his home south of Sydney, he was just back from a two-month trip with his wife to Southeast Asia. But long-term, far-off travel has become the norm for Andrew, all thanks to being able to write for a living. Enjoy the story of what got him here and how he’s making the most of it.
Living the Writer's Life: Melanie Warren
Melanie Warren is the kind of person who sets her sights on something and goes all in. So even though she took a curvy road to get to copywriting, once she found it, she soared. Read on to discover how she built up a successful writing business fast, and don’t miss the part about her magical Vegas Christmas, which is bound to inspire every up-and-coming family-minded writer.
Living the Writer's Life: Jay Simon
After company cutbacks, Jay Simon decided he’d rather venture out on his own in a field he enjoyed. A tip from a friend set him in the direction of copywriting, and he jumped in with full intensity. His early dedication to learning the craft paid off quickly, and now he gets to be a hands-on dad to his young son, travel, and still bring in a healthy income. Enjoy Jay’s account of how he launched a writing career to love.
Living the Writer's Life: Michele Peterson
Michele Peterson’s enthusiasm for writing — and life — is contagious the minute you start talking to her. But a good chunk of her zest comes from getting to do something with clients she feels connected to. Read on to discover how she backed her way out of a family business and built a career she has full ownership over and thrives in.
Living the Writer's Life: Michael Glenn
As a young man, Michael Glenn thought he knew exactly what he was going to do for a career. But the Navy steered him in a different direction, and then the realities of life and war stepped in to once again alter his trajectory. Through it all, Michael’s love of writing was present, despite having to be rediscovered and reshaped. Enjoy this vulnerable and very relatable interview about how he’s using his writing to help others who’ve faced challenges similar to his own.
Living the Writer's Life: Melynda Boyce
Melynda Boyce stepped into freelancing out of both choice and necessity, after her family and financial obligations grew exponentially in a short amount of time. Though she’s had a strong cheerleader in the wings by way of her older sister (the fabulous Jen Adams, who is director of The Professional Writers’ Alliance and also one of our favorite fellow Barefoot Writers), Melynda was able to harness the elements of freelancing that were ideal for her while also making her own mark in the world of copyediting. Discover how this flexible career continues to meet all her needs.
