EPISODE 91: Finding Your Perfect Match with HarperCollins Editor (and Author) Sara Schonfeld
Way-Word Writers Podcast · Way-Word Writers
Audio is streamed directly from the publisher (api.substack.com) as published in their RSS feed. Play Podcasts does not host this file. Rights-holders can request removal through the copyright & takedown page.
Show Notes
In this episode of Way-Word Writers, hosts Heather Cashman, Stephanie Bearce, and Nicki Jacobsmeyer sit down with Sara Schonfeld, a senior editor at Harper Collins, to discuss the parallels between publishing and dating. Sara delves into her process of finding ‘the one’ manuscript, what she looks for in submissions, and how she balances personal taste with market demands. She shares her proudest moments, handling rejection, and offers insight and advice for both aspiring and established authors. This engaging conversation is filled with humor, relatable anecdotes, and practical tips for navigating the publishing world.
00:00 Welcome to Way-Word Writers
00:31 Introducing Sara Schonfeld from Harper Collins
01:07 The Publishing Meet Cute
03:12 What Editors Look For in Submissions
08:32 Handling Rejections and Ghosting
10:58 The Editing Process and Author Calls
18:46 Dealing with Breakups and Cancellations
20:04 Silver Medalist Syndrome
21:01 Rejection in the Publishing Industry
21:18 Breakup Rituals and Sad Playlists
22:13 Dating and Book Comparisons
22:53 Balancing Personal Taste and Market Pressures
28:37 Proudest Author Relationships
31:00 Lightning Dating Round
33:08 Advice for Authors and the Future of Publishing
34:41 Conclusion and Farewell
Find out more about Sara Schonfeld here!
For a deeper dive into first pages and how to make an editor or agent fall in love, see our Episode 91 Deep Dive post here!
This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit waywordwriters.substack.com