About My Blogs

Finally thriving and seriously irritated

Thoughts and observations on writing, editing, publishing, and this great big world … soon to be a podcast streaming on YouTube, Apple, Spotify and more.

If a draft was uploaded? A character needs more developing? An ending more context? It’s been done, more often than you may think.
Having a few friends (or your mother) read your novel is not the same as line editing by someone who is not, also “reading the story.”
I remember staring at Mrs. Butterworth waiting for her to talk, but she never did. Which I suppose was just as well, I might have felt bad when she was empty and it was time to throw her out.
Writing drunk can releases inhibitions and allow the mind to float into an uncanny stream of consciousness one cannot always find when sober. But how drunk, is too drunk?

Ever felt like you were just getting by, even when life looked perfect on paper? Welcome to the “Finally Striving and Seriously Irritated” Podcast—a weekly show where we get real about the messy, unfiltered journey from struggle to self-discovery. Host Shauna Gabriel, a writer and freelance journalist, shares personal stories of overcoming an eating disorder, finding meaning beyond mediocrity, and embracing the quirks that make us human (like hot flashes at 30,000 feet, and a few strong opinions about gum chewers and helicopter parents).

If you’re ready for honest talk, a few laughs, and the inspiration to write your next chapter, this is the podcast for you. First seven episodes drop March 11.

The Flexitarian Rx

Live consciously, love fiercely, eat well—that’s the Flexitarian Prescription.