Writing "Greedy" with Jen Winston

Jen Winston opens her new book Greedy, with an introduction titled: A Story to Ease the Author’s Imposter Syndrome.

how to structure your book

I already knew Jen before getting this book in my hands, in fact, I was one of the folks that helped bring it to life–but I laughed out loud at how honest and real that section is (as is the entire book). Because, frankly, we all have imposter syndrome–most of us just don’t advertise it like a neon sign with flashing lights.

But that’s Jen Winston in a nutshell–willing to say the hard things out loud–which is why Greedy: Notes From a Bisexual Who Wants Too Much (Atria October 5, 2021) is such a brilliant, game-changing book. The fact that she wrote it in three months–no small feat–in fact I think she’s still sweating and cursing about it on Instagram (@jenerous)

If you’ve ever worried in your writing process that you’re revealing too much, exposing stories and glimpses into your life that make you feel…well…vulnerable, or just wondered if your stories are “enough”,  I encourage you to check out the debut season 2 episode of Bound + Determined.

Jen is a great example of how books have the power to shift narratives and help others feel seen. Through Greedy, she reminds us that queerness is about truth, community, and defining yourself on your own terms.

LISTEN NOW!

In this debut season 2 episode, we discuss:

  • Why she hopes her book is one day obsolete
  • Moving from proposal to manuscript
  • Lessons learned during rewrites
  • Thinking through how to structure your book
  • Importance of sensitivity readers
  • Why being Greedy isn’t a bad thing
  • What bisexuality means to Jen

 

Jen Winston is a writer, creative director, and bisexual. Jen runs a monthly newsletter called The Bi Monthly, and their first essay collection — GREEDY: Notes From A Bisexual Who Wants Too Much — was recently released with Atria Books.

Jen’s work bridges the intersection of sex, politics, and technology, and has been featured in the Wall Street Journal, the Washington Post, and more. Jen is passionate about unlearning and creating work that helps others do the same.

 

Resources:

Loved this episode? Leave a review!

I’d be so grateful if you subscribed on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite podcast app and left a review.

The more reviews we have, the more likely others can find these episodes too.