256 Comments
Sep 28Liked by Claire Venus (she/her) ✨

Hi! I'm Katie, and I'm a social and cultural psychologist. I live in the desert of Texas alongside the cacti, roadrunners, and horned lizards. I help curious and creative women understand their inner landscape and the whirlwind of the world around them.

At psychologie, I dish out practical self-improvement hacks, tips and tools, dive into the latest mind-blowing research, and share stories that hit home for every woman on her own unique journey.

My paid subscribers receive practical, hands-on exercises that go a step further than simply reading words on a page—including my Dopamine Hit List workbook + video guide designed to help you romanticize your daily life.

Thank you for reading! :)

http://thepsychologie.com

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Sep 28Liked by Claire Venus (she/her) ✨

Hi Katie, landscape and journeys are definitely a theme for me too! I look forward to reading more, x

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Hi, Aoibhín! I just watched your Where I find myself video, and I love your connnection to landscape. I will be following along with your journey! Thanks for connecting. :)

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Hi Katie,

I live in TX and my Substack is about mental health, too. (https://wendigordon.substack.com). I share tips and practices based on what has helped me cope and given me hope as I live with depression, anxiety, and ADHD. I also recommend resources (especially books by experts) and feature guest posts by people who have faced mental health challenges I haven’t (like sexual abuse, eating disorders, and addictions).

Maybe we can collaborate or otherwise support each other.

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Hi, Wendi! I just read your latest Substack article, and it sounds like we might have a lot in common! Thank you so much for reaching out. Looking forward to connecting more with you!

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I like the idea of a BFF with a PhD :-) looking forward to following along Katie x

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Hi, Layla! Thank you so much for commenting! Your Substack page is so beautiful. I love the earthy tones and resonate with your writing topics. So happy to be connected! I will be following along with your journey. :)

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thanks for your lovely words Katie, and yes, looking forward to following along as we make our way here on this great platform :-) x

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Love the goal--to understand our inner landscape.

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Thank you so much for the comment, Shell! I love your idea of unearthing family stories. As a social & cultural psychologist, I like to think of our family systems as mini cultures. Sometimes, cultural influences there shape us into holding unhealthy (or even untrue) beliefs or ways of being. It's something I really love to explore. Excited to see you exploring similar themes! Thanks again for connecting!

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This looks wonderful, Katie. I look forward to following and reading.

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Hi, Robin! WOW! I just read your About page and found so many connection points, especially our shared love for Rebecca. Then, your letter from Daphne du Maurier really blew me away. Truly amazing! Rebecca has always been one of my favorite books, and what a treasure to have received a personal note from her. Thank you so much for reaching out! Happy to be connected.

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Aww, that's so nice that you read my About page. Thanks, Katie. I'm thrilled that we've connected here and subscribed to each other!

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Oh Katie, I love the idea of a dopamine hit list 🤗. Thank you for sharing. This is definitely something me and my journal will be exploring today 🥰

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Hi, Jess! Thank you for reaching out! Your "This is not a self-help post" article actually looks like quite the dopamine hit list! I resonate with so many of the items you've included there! I loved reading it. Would love to hear what you unearthed in your journaling, if anything noteworthy. Thanks again! Happy to be connected. :)

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Thank you for your lovely words of encouragement, Katie. I think what I’ve discovered in my journaling is that in fact I already do many of the things that I consider dopamine hits - I don’t need to do something alternative or strive for some ideal. I just need to remind myself of the glimmers that I often overlook 🙏

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Hi, Wendy! I love the idea of mindful photography! I finally made it to Scotland for my first time this past summer and absolutely fell in love with your country and its landscape. I'm certain you have many beautiful subjects to photograph there! Thanks so much for reaching out. Happy to be connected. :)

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Sep 28Liked by Claire Venus (she/her) ✨

Hi everyone 👋 I'm Sophie, I'm originally from Belgium, now living in New Zealand.

Professionally, I'm a Social worker/ criminologist, managing a team of 7 for a Government Department.

Outside of that, I live in an off grid tiny house.

In the substack world, I write about my reconnection with nature, my journey to rewild , while keeping my busy 9 to 5. Because I do not believe you need to give up your job in order to be happy. We can have it all, life is about balance.

You can read more here: https://thisissophietoday.substack.com

And thanks Claire I really appreciate these threads!

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Hello Sophie lovely to meet you, I've subscribed too. Thank you for sharing.

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your page looks beautiful Sophie - the illustrations are wonderful too, so interested in the off=grid tiny house as well! x

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Thanks Layla ❤️

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I really love your substack Sophie ☺️

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I like that "reconnection with nature."

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What a great combo and message, Sophie. I'm going to follow you. Thanks!

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Thanks so much Robin ❤️

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Sep 28·edited Sep 28Liked by Claire Venus (she/her) ✨

Hi! I'm Nancy and I'm a creativity coach, which means I help folks reconnect with their creative dreams so they feel more alive and energized (and get unstuck when those pesky blocks inevitably rear their heads).

On Substack, I write the Spark, where I write about lots of different aspects of the creative process--sometimes in ways that are more "conventional" and sometimes aspects that are not so obvious--and post updates on the latest episodes and guests on my Follow Your Curiosity Podcast.

I'm currently in the home stretch of putting together my upcoming Make Bad Art group program, which will be starting in about a month. Make Bad Art is the anti-MBA, a safe place to come unlearn all those things you're taught you have to have as an "adult" (stress, perfection, conformity) so you can reclaim the inner wild, curious, creative kid who's always been inside you--the one who knows how to play, invent, have fun, and live with abandon and joy. It's a playground for the liberation of your inner artist AND your authentic self, and the effects will go beyond the class container...if you let them.

I'll be posting more very soon on The Spark, so subscribe to get the details as soon as they're available! We'd love to have you! https://fycuriosity.substack.com/

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wonderful Nancy! I love the idea of Make Bad ARt programme, looking forward to following along :-) x

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Fuck yeah! Sounds 🔥

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That's the spirit! I hope you'll join us! :)

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Hi Nancy, I love the sound of your MBA, sounds fun to Make Bad Art! That is the way I like to create too.

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Thanks, Kellie! As I like to say, you can't make good art if you're not willing to make bad art first. :)

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Sep 28Liked by Claire Venus (she/her) ✨

Hey there! I’m mixed media artist working on building a new collection of work focused on native plants and our connection to place. I’m currently using plastic that would be headed for the landfill to make small houses and creating a type of wall sculpture.

I’m not offering a paid option yet but I am wanting to in the future. I feel like I’m still finding my footing a little bit. I’m so used to working with my hands to create, finding the right words to say what’s in my head feels difficult sometimes.

Right now I’m sharing a lot of my process and how my work comes together. I’m a Mom of a 6 year old daughter and a 3 year old boy so my work time is limited but my kids are encouraging. My son always asks if I will show him what I did with my clouds and my daughter is keen to give suggestions and feedback. She likes to work collaboratively with me.

Thanks for reading!

https://substack.com/@junerandbec

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bec, these are the most gorgeous art works! very excited to follow and be inspired.

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Layla, I love your level of engagement here. Such beautiful, supportive vibes. I discovered your page and subscribed.

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what a nice thing to say Robin! a rising tide raises all ships I always think :-) thanks for subscribing also, I hope you find something you enjoy x

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Thank you so so much Layla! I feel good even just sharing them on Substack for now. I just peeked over at your page and gave you a follow too, reading your description had me hook, line and sinker hahaha

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I am really looking forward to continuing to see what you share, and delighted you found beauty & bones resonated too!

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Beautiful work, Bec. Just subscribed :-)

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Thanks so much!! 💜💜

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P.S. Just subscribed and shared one of your posts. The multi-media is inspiring.

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Robin I cannot thank you enough! Your support is incredible, and I appreciate your feedback.

I’m excited to check out your Substack as well!

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My pleasure, Bec. Thank you. ❤️

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Sweet videos, Bec! I really like how you're integrating these into your posts.

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I wish you success here on Substack, Bec. You're modeling great life ways for your children. So important. And I can relate to being new in this space. I've only recently started Awakening Wonder, and am just now beginning to create posts for paid subscribers. I'm glad for our connection thanks to Claire.

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Wow Bec I love what you’re creating, incredible stuff, I just had a glimpse and subscribed

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Thanks so much Sarina!

I just did the same, I love you're writing style! I'm excited to read more from you!

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Sep 28Liked by Claire Venus (she/her) ✨

Thanks Claire! Hi all! 👋 I’m Olivia, and I inspire, encourage and teach people to grow their own cut flowers from my garden on the West Coast of Scotland.

I’ve been gardening my whole life, but during the first lockdown I dug up half the back garden to create a cutting garden, grew more flowers than I could ever use, and Lark Rose was born. I started with flower farming, and I now have a small plant growing business out of a beautiful commercial-sized greenhouse near me, but my heart’s in the cutting garden. I write all about it here on Substack, including weekly detailed updates from the garden and business, mostly for my paid community.

I write about the practicalities of growing your own cut flowers, provide lots of floral inspiration, take you into the garden and greenhouse, and just generally want to create a world where everyone grows at least a few cut flowers. Come and join in!

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Sep 28Liked by Claire Venus (she/her) ✨

What a lovely idea for a publication! 🌷excited to take a closer look.

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Thank you!

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100% subscribing - i've two patches in the garden to do just his with, very happy to find you here :-)

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Oh yay, hope it's useful to you!

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Cut flower gardening! How wonderful!🌹🌷🪻

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Thank you! It's my happy place...

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I'm Eileen Kennedy-Moore. For my day job, I'ma a clinical psychologist working with adults, children, and families. I'm also the author of many traditionally published books for parents or kids about children's feelings and friendships.

I'm passionate about helping kids build strong and caring relationships. My favorite work activity is creating a weekly, 5-min. podcast for children in grades K-8, called Kids Ask Dr. Friendtastic. Each episode features an audio recording of a question about friendship from a kid plus a practical and thought-provoking answer from me.

My Substack is Dr. Friendtastic for Parents. Free subscribers get the podcast sent to their email every Saturday morning (East Coast US time), along with an easy-to-read transcript and discussion questions they can use to deepen their child's understanding. Paid subscribers get additional weekly Podcast Parent Note, which focus on how to reinforce the podcast topic that week at home. They also get a coupon code each month for $20 off the featured online workshop of the month. For September, that’s Dealing with Feelings About Friends – For Kids! https://webinars.eileenkennedymoore.com/courses/feelings-about-friends-for-kids

https://DrFriendtastic.substack.com

https://EileenKennedyMoore.com

https://DrFriendtastic.com/podcast

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This is very creative and so so helpful to young people! Great title--Dr. Friendtastic!

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What a wonderful idea and creative use of the podcast medium!

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Good evening! On Substack I write Two Houses. Two Painters. Two Parents. which shares stories, art, and artifacts found while excavating my mother’s Soho, Manhattan loft. My mother died during the pandemic, leaving behind the space where she’d lived and painted for 40 yrs. I write about my life in Brooklyn and Manhattan with my long-divorced painter-parents. I share their art and my story as a child of a well-known father and unknown mother. Themes for my writing are divorce, feminism, art history, NYC, grief, and Time.

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what a fascinating and poignant premise for a substack Eliza, so intrigued to read more...

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This looks fascinating, Eliza! I'm following you.

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Sep 28Liked by Claire Venus (she/her) ✨

Hi, I’m Anna. I am a Sunday Times Bestselling writer, ghostwriter and co-writer of books (both fiction and non- fiction) and a journalist. My work is centred around strong female voices and activists so a lot of my discussion over on my substack White Ink is about how we use our voice, what we write, and how we write as women.

Off substack I make my living as a writer of books and so I am able to talk about life as a writer, and some of my most viewed posts have been things like ‘what do writers actually earn’ and ‘how to get a six-figure book deal’. I also host a monthly creative writing workshop for paid subscribers.

Off substack I am a single parent to a 12-year-old daughter and fur mum to two cats, one gorgeous Labrador and currently her seven puppies (🥴).

Is that everything? I can never remember! But hi! 👋🏻

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Sep 28Liked by Claire Venus (she/her) ✨

Oh, a link to my substack https://annawharton.substack.com

Hope to see you there!

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I couldn't recommend Anna's page more to everyone - always so much food for thought! x

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That is so nice of you to say so, Layla. Thank you! I love you being a part of my White Ink community x

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Sep 28Liked by Claire Venus (she/her) ✨

Hi everyone! I’m Shinjini, an India-based mixed media artist and tarot reader. I offer beginner-friendly art and tarot courses as well as tarot readings, which you can find on my website, https://moderngypsy.in.

On Substack, I send out Studio Diaries, weekly notes to fuel your creative fire! Subscribers receive a new sketchbook prompt every month, short process videos, pages from my art journal & notes on the creative process.

I don’t have a paid option on Substack yet, and I’m not planning to turn it on in the near future. But I am working on offering a snail mail subscription, where I will send out a small piece of original art (A6 size, roughly 10.5 x 14.8 cm) and a handful of handmade ephemera that can be used in your journals (art or written). It will be set up as an annual subscription with a snail mail package sent out twice a year. Each painting will be unique (original, not prints of my art) and spots will be very limited.

If this is of interest, do subscribe to Studio Diaries, as I will launch the offer there once I’ve ironed out the details. https://shinjinim.substack.com

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Hi Shinjini! Have you started your snail mail subscription? I’ve been thinking about it and would love your thoughts. ☺️

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No yet, Mika. I’m still planning and trying to work out the details. I’d love to brainstorm, though. Drop me a DM here?

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Sep 28Liked by Claire Venus (she/her) ✨

Hello everyone! I'm Polina. I live on a block of land in New Zealand, trying to garden and raising children and chickens.

My substack is called Elements of a Mother. I send out newsletter every 2 or so weeks, covering yogic and ayurvedic practices that can help deal with beautiful and challenging motherhood journey.

Ayurveda has been my support for the last 7 years, guiding me through endometriosis diagnosis, struggles to conceive and 2 healthy pregnancies.

I am still somewhat on maternity leave, but if you have health concerns (mental, emotional, physical or spiritual) that you feel are not being resolved through more traditional systems, please feel free to DM me.

And of course you can subscribe to polinawilkinson.substack.com to learn more🧡

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oh hi fellow New Zealander 👋 so excited to meet another kiwi, there's not too many of us here, or at least that I've met. I also have endometriosis and for a while also used ayurveda to keep it under control! I'm now no longer eating that way, mostly because I felt it was a lot of work, but I still find food has a massive impact on endometriosis, so eating healthy is still important. Lovely to meet you!

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Hi Sophie! Sorry to hear that you are in a sad endo club. Appropriate diet really does help to keep it under control.

How exciting to see another kiwi here. Which part of NZ are you based in (if yoi don't mind sharing)? So lovely to meet you 😊

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I'm near Raglan, whereabouts are you?

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So cool! I'm in Canterbury

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Mothering is an important thread in my next novel, Polina. How wonderful that you've had two healthy babies.

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beautifully supportive and beneficial offering Polina - delighted to be following along x

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Thank you for your encouragement Layla🙏 💕

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Sep 28Liked by Claire Venus (she/her) ✨

👋🏽 I’m Sarina, originally a Londoner but it’s now been 14 years in my soul home of NSW Australia.

I write the publication Fully Expressed - to hold us to a truer, braver expression, while we shamelessly inhabit our unique brilliance and beauty 🌼🌸🌺

https://sarinazoe22.substack.com

I am a mother, visual artist, writer and somatic-based mentor. I offer 1-1 somatic intelligence mentorship ‘The Art of Being You’ alongside my paid membership on Substack.

I’m soon launching a second publication dedicated to my poetry and illustration work, as a behind the scenes journey from zero to first book publication 🪷

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This sounds like a lovely newsletter Sarina! I love the idea of a soulhome, I've never seen anyone express the sentiment like that :)

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Sep 28Liked by Claire Venus (she/her) ✨

Thank you for giving us the space to share our words and to connect with other readers and writers 🤗.

I’m Jess, a 32 year old woman from Bournemouth, south coast of England, UK. When I’m not writing (which isn’t often because writing has become to me like breathing), I’m writing…oh that doesn’t make sense 😆…and editing children’s books for a reading scheme. I also tutor primary aged children. Things that bring me joy and I’m practising at the moment include: embracing my wild autumnal self, allowing myself to be cosy and living fearlessly in a life that is not promised.

I write about mindfulness, faith and living well over on The Wildflower. I’d love to see you over there 😌 👉 http://jessthompson.substack.com

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Followed. 💜 I see we're both in Beth Kempton's SoulCircle, Jess.

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And what a fabulous place the SoulCircle is! How are you finding the SoulCircle experience so far?

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Jess, I think it’s a beautiful space, and I engage in the live gatherings. Beth’s a great role model.

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Sep 28Liked by Claire Venus (she/her) ✨

I am Nora Herold. I am an Internationally known psychic medium and reiki master who offers direct voice channeling sessions in individual and group format. I also teach channeling, tarot, and reiki. I've been self employed in this field since 1998.

On top of that I am a political activist and have worked on both of Bernie Sanders campaigns for President.

I am passionate about facilitating the awareness in everyone that you are love incarnate and are valuable simply because you exist. I use the phrase "operate from joy" and it is the foundation for my work as a channel, guide, healer, writer, and activist.

You can register for a class, schedule a session with me, or purchase one of my many lectures, processes, or classes here on my site: https://www.noraherold.com/

And you can subscribe to me here for my regular writings on spirituality, creativity, healing, astrology, my memoir, and anything else that inspires me at the moment.

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I love the phrase "operate from joy." Just followed you, Nora.

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Thank you, Robin. So nice to meet you :)

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Sep 28Liked by Claire Venus (she/her) ✨

I love this thread! I read others’ intros, enjoy finding those whose words intrigue me and am not quite sure how to possibly put into a few words what I feel like is true to me and my offering today ✨

I’m in a phase of transitions in so many aspects of life and so is my publication naturally shifting too. That’s why I decided I embrace the not knowing how to self promo myself in this thread today and just invite curious readers in to explore the transition with me 🫶

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Thank you for being here Carmen and sharing your truth. ✨💕

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Love it, Carmen. Not knowing is such a valid and crucial part of creativity. Good for you for embracing this moment, instead of trying to rush through it.

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Sep 28·edited Sep 28Liked by Claire Venus (she/her) ✨

I am Ann Richardson, age 82 and therefore one of the older writers on Substack, but not the oldest. I was born and brought up in the US (Washington, DC and NYC) but have lived in London since 1968 with my English husband of 61 years now. We have two grown up children who both live in London and two teenage grandsons. I spent my life doing social research (eg focus groups and interviews with people with social or health problems) and have written many books on completely different topics. Two focus on aspects of dying (one about people with AIDS in the 1990s and one about people working in hospice care) and I found both moving and fascinating. My most recent is about how old age can remain fun and is called, like my Substack, The Granny Who Stands on her Head: Reflections on growing older. I am and I do – you can see a two minute video on my Substack site here: https://arichardson.substack.com/p/why-does-anyone-stand-on-their-head.

I love thinking about things and I love writing and in my Substack, I put the two together. I do write about growing older, but not only about that.

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Great title. I recently asked my granddaughters if they thought I could do a cartwheel. They said, "Nooo, Mimis can't do that." So I did. 🤸‍♂️

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Good for you. I’m not sure I could. I would worry about my back, not to mention what I would say to the doctors, if I did do it harm, when they asked ‘what in the world did you think you were doing?’!!

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I have to say it’s a little harder on the wrists than it used to be.

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Beautiful, Ann. I look forward to following you.

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Anne, I love the fact that you’ve written books on completely different topics. I want to learn more. I especially love the idea of aging in FUN. I look forward to following you.

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Jane, I spent my working life as a jobbing researcher (which is a LOT more fun than it sounds) which meant I was asked to do research on all sorts of new things, which meant I was constantly on a learning curve. I wrote the AIDS book because a close friend who was dying from AIDS was running a conference for people with AIDS from all over the world and I had the bright idea of getting two interviewers to the conference and compiling a book from the results (Wise before their Time). I then got very interested in death and worked as a volunteer in a hospice for four years and thought the work was fascinating, so created a project to interview hospice staff and compile a book from the results (Life in a Hospice). I then became a grandmother and thought that it was a complex and wonderful role, so I interviewed a lot of grandmothers and compiled a book (Celebrating Grandmothers). I then thought a bit about growing older and wrote a book about why I liked it (NOT based on interviews, but on my own thoughts), The Granny Who Stands on her Head.

If being whatever age you are is fun, then being 82 is still fun, unless you are unlucky in which case I guess it isn't. I just have laughs every day, including just tonight over the fact that another Substacker referred to people like me as "juicy". You just have to have a few laughs every day.

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Sep 28·edited Sep 28Liked by Claire Venus (she/her) ✨

MERHABA 🙋🏻‍♀️ I'm Tuğba, a Turkish-Greek writer and artist living in Berlin. I write, paint, and work with ceramics, and I'm also part of an Artist Collective in Berlin.

I publish "as slow as possible" on Substack, a newsletter that delves into the often overlooked in-between spaces of our lives, reflecting on the subtle yet profound experiences that enrich our creativity and shape our everyday narratives. At the moment, I'm working on an ebook to share with my readers, detailing all the tools I use to achieve deep, focused work. Due to my corporate job, my time is limited, so I've discovered methods that work well for me over the years.

In addition to my newsletter, I have over 15 years of experience in the corporate world, having worked for companies like Nokia, Microsoft, Nike, and Salesforce. Although this aspect of my life doesn't play as critical a role anymore, I'm still glad to be engaged in new technologies like AI and have acquired numerous business skills over the years. I currently work four days a week to allocate more time to my creative pursuits.

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i love what you're doing Tuğba. Great name for your page too. I lived in Berlin for 8 years, so it's nice to feel that connection back there through you too!

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Only catching up with comments. Aww, thank you so much, Layla. Which years did you live in Berlin? And where do you live now?

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Tugba I never realised you also work in tech, I also don’t talk much about that side of myself. I just looked you up on LinkedIn and can see some of my colleagues likely know you - haha small world 🫶 I’ll add you there although I keep my writing / corporate worlds super strictly separate, no one from the other world knows I write on substack and I intend to keep it that way 🤫. It’s so inspiring to see that you can give space to your creative persuits and can work only 4 days per week.

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We have so many common connections on LinkedIn - it's funny. It’s interesting that you keep it a secret. Are you worried they will judge you?

I’ve had work colleagues compliment me on my work on Substack, and even my manager has been super positive and supportive. I've also had some people from my LinkedIn subscribe to my Substack. It was weird at the beginning to share such personal things, especially my last post, but it resonated with many people

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Yes the mutual connection are funny, and unexpected. Do you know them or are they more acquaintances?

I purposefully keep both worlds separate so I can explore freely. I’m keen to see how to build a community away from other social media places on here. Also trying to figure out what my self employment on the side can look like and until that’s very clear I don’t want to mix things up.

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Oct 13Liked by Claire Venus (she/her) ✨

Yes, I know some of them. I think one of them was even my customer. I would need to check again haha and msg you on LinkedIn. I don’t have it on the top of my mind now. Yeah, I get it, Carmen. Amazing you are doing it. There isn’t one way of doing things. Have a wonderful Sunday 🖤

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Hi Tuğba, I also write paint and work with ceramics, beautiful to find you here 🌸

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I'm only catching up with comments, Sarina! Nice to meet you, too 🥰 That is amazing! Are you working on the wheel or handbuilding?

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Sep 28Liked by Claire Venus (she/her) ✨

I am Terje, a woman starting the second year after a career-change at the age of fifty-one, leaving school, finishing coaching-supervision studies, discovering new ways of being.

As a coach and educator, I love nudging and supporting people to learn and grow and live a life with the sense of agency and joy. Here on Substack, I share what I have discovered about writing and life and encourage people to be playful with words. I have three adult daughters. The youngest moved out in August. I appreciate small things and ordinary moments. Learning keeps me young. I love gathering light and colour and to share it with others. I write, bake and dance for fun.

I welcome new readers to my Writing Playground https://terjeakke.substack.com/

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We definitely share passions, Terje.

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Thanks for creating this space for us to share and connect, Claire! 🫶

Hi Beautiful Souls! I’m Catherine Wilde a homeschooling mom of three, the founder of Soul Care Mom and the Vibrant Mom Life Membership, and the best-selling author of the book Reclaiming Your Inner Sparkle. I help women find themselves again in motherhood, and carve out time to do the things they love without mom guilt, all while being the mom they want to be.

On my Substack, Soul Care Mom Substack with Catherine Wilde, I share behind the scenes of my journey of mastering the art of slow living while navigating the wild ride of motherhood, homeschooling, and entrepreneurship.✨💕

Paid subscribers get a deeper level of support, including my transformational course Compassionate Motherhood that will help you finally release mom guilt, lean into deeper levels of self compasssion, and create a life infused with self care!

Join the soulful fun here 💖 https://soulcaremom.substack.com/

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Although we are from different age ranges, I find your description very positive and uplifting--and that's so important nowadays.

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Sep 28Liked by Claire Venus (she/her) ✨

Hi, I'm Lynda. My substack, Heines Sight, is about my loves: genealogy and my life journey. I'm also a fabric artist, but share that on my website, lyndaheines.com. I decided to get back to writing (I used to teach journal writing years ago) when my sis died last year - the last of my family. I have found this substack community to include a wonderful bunch of supportive writers. https://lyndaheines.substack.com/

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Sep 28Liked by Claire Venus (she/her) ✨

I love genealogy! I’ve subscribed ✨

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Thank you!!!

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I love the name of your Substack…beautiful. Look forward to exploring your work.

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Jane, Thanks.

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Genealogy is such a fascinating subject, Lynda!

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Sep 28Liked by Claire Venus (she/her) ✨

Hello, I'm Josefin and I am a bureaucrat by day and writer, spinner and spinning teacher all day and every day. Spinning, teaching and writing go, literally, hand in hand. The spinning in my hands and the writing of the spinning through my hands that still tingle from the movement of the wool.

In the courses I provide in-person in Sweden and online I want my students to feel they have got something more than just a course. I want them to feel that they have a box of tools they know how to use in their context and with the skills they have, and trust that they can make decisions on their journey towards joy in all the parts of the process.

On Substack I write for a wider audience than just spinners. I love to explore my wild writing and often find myself flirting with a poetic writing style.

A couple of weeks ago I sent my finished book manuscript to my editor. The book is called "Listen to the wool – a why-to guide for joyful spinning" and will be published in the second half of 2025.

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I love how you've introduced yourself in the first paragraph, that last line tickled something in my brain! 💚

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Sep 28Liked by Claire Venus (she/her) ✨

Hello! I write history and historical fiction here on Substack, as well as hold space for history writers to connect with each other, grow in their craft, promote their own writing. If you write or read history, I’d love to connect with you! ✨

I have an ebook of short historical fiction stories, designed to show readers a world that is relatable, richly textured, and beautiful. You can buy it here: https://1606281410081.gumroad.com/l/ledntd

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I enjoy historical fiction; giving you a follow! :-)

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Woo hoo! So great to meet you ✨

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Sep 28·edited Sep 28Liked by Claire Venus (she/her) ✨

Hello I am Melanie, Mentor, Counselor an Author I have been working as a mentor since 2018 online and in person. I offer soulful talking therapy counselling sessions to support and guide my clients through mid-life challenges. Nature is at the heart and soul of my work I wrote and published my book 'Living with Amazing Grace - a journey through grief, healing and transformation' to help support others through miscarriage and baby loss. I work holistically and intuitively to infuse nature led, and divine feminine practices and rituals into my mentoring, counselling and writing. Based in Surrey you’ll often find me outdoors in my wellies, immersed in nature and pottering in our garden surrounded by wildlife, flowers and plants. You can work with me on a 1-1 basis via melaniemackie.org or join the Branches of Wisdom Retreat here on Substack which is infused with divine feminine wisdom, soulful and mindful rituals and well-being practices for you to simply be. Members have full access to the monthly retreat gathering, podcast - Through the Seasons and my online ecourse Bloom From Within. I look forward to meeting you. https://melaniemackie.substack.com/

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How amazing that you get to help people walk through their second or third chapter with more confidence in themselves and what’s ahead. That’s so special. ☺️

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Hello Mike thank you, it is definitely a second or third spring unraveling what no longer is part of you or life going forwards. 💕

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Sep 28Liked by Claire Venus (she/her) ✨

Hello everyone! I'm bakhtawar and I'm a psychology student and writer who lives in Pakistan.

I'm a passionate learner who wants to channel what we know of the world today to become a more mindful writer and reader. I journey through literature and emulate the takeaways from these stories in real life.

And that's what my substack is mostly about too! If it interests you, consider supporting me: https://storiesandstates.substack.com/

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Sep 30Liked by Claire Venus (she/her) ✨

When did you first begin to get interested in writing and teach others about writing?

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Sep 30Liked by Claire Venus (she/her) ✨

I don't teach others how to write, I just help them navigate the morals of shifting literary life by addressing the dilemmas writers and readers are faced with today!

I started writing really early on from primary school in Chile, where teachers were very adamant that I was great at it :)) Now I just want to do it as morally as humanly possible 📖

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Sep 28Liked by Claire Venus (she/her) ✨

Hi, I’m Amanda Hinton, an editorial strategist with nearly 20 years of experience, focused on helping DIY writers and creative entrepreneurs strategically grow their newsletters.

Through The Editing Spectrum, I provide tools and strategies designed to transform scattered ideas into newsletters that readers love. My approach combines creative intuition with data and audience analysis. I’ve even got a Writing Seasons quiz that helps writers and creators pinpoint which phase of their creative process they’re in and offers tailored strategies to help work productively with what they encounter in each season.

Outside my newsletter work I work one-on-one with creative entrepreneurs in moments when their newsletters need to strategically pivot. I’ve also got a growing Resource Library, filled with digital guides and workshops like The Substack Launch Plan and Audit Your Substack Data Like a Strategist (coming Nov. 4).

When I'm not working, you'll likely find me singing songs with my daughter Evagene, trimming flowers in my garden, or cooking something tasty in my kitchen.

Writing Seasons Quiz: 5yg11yyu87b.typeform.com/to/bYDwavBv

Digital Guides & Workshops: https://amandabray.com/resources

[Thanks for hosting this, Claire! Always love a good practice session!]

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Ooh, I love your approach, Amanda! Definitely going to take a look at your substack!

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Sep 28Liked by Claire Venus (she/her) ✨

Hi, I'm Lucy and I'm a YA fantasy author masquerading as a librarian.

At the moment, I'm writing a series of small novellas that are a combination of sweet YA romance and fairytale retellings.

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Sounds lovely, Lucy! YA novels often make such comforting reads.

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That sounds like the dream life 💚

All the best with those books :))

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Sep 28Liked by Claire Venus (she/her) ✨

Hi there! I'm Stephanie Duncan Smith, senior editor in the publishing industry, creator of the Slant Letter Substack for writers looking to deepen their craft, and most recently, author of my upcoming book Even After Everything: The Spiritual Practice of Knowing the Risks and Loving Anyway which comes out in two weeks 🎉🎉🎉

After 15 years in professional publishing, it's been eye-opening in the best of ways to jump the desk and join the ranks of writers in the incredible work that you do--all respect!

For anyone interested in memoir and personal narrative, I'm hosting a memoir workshop and so excited to share what I know about one of my favorite genres: hope you'll join us!

https://stephanieduncansmith.substack.com/p/youre-invited-to-my-memoir-workshop

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Memoirs are such a fascinating genre, Stephanie. If only I had a life that was even slightly interesting. lol!

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Sep 28Liked by Claire Venus (she/her) ✨

Thanks for the invitation Claire:-)

Hi 👋🏽 I’m Nneka, pronounced en-Nay-kah. I am a Trini born oracle and current caregiver to my parents. My dad has Alzheimer’s and my mom is legally blind.

I’m walking a line between being the Trini culturally appropriate, responsible immigrant daughter, and the freedom seeking, individualistic American while preparing for my own golden years.

In my publication, Letters from Nneka, I share insights from this journey.

My paid subscribers receive financial updates on my road to retirement including the down and dirty numbers and what I’m doing to replace my income.

https://nnekakelly.substack.com

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Your stack sounds awesome! Have you checked out Carer Mentor by Victoria and Notes from the Town Hermit by Tiffany Chu? I think you might find similar content there if you want to network!

Here's the links :))

Carer Mentor: https://www.carermentor.com/

Notes from the Town Hermit: https://tiffanychu.substack.com/

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Hey there, I’m Fernando 👋

I am a dad of two beautiful girls ✨and husband to the woman of my dreams.

After many years working as a theatre stage manager and producer, I’ve spent the last decade helping families of children with cancer getting to hospitals.

Sometimes I give them a lift. Other times, I cross a whole country in war by foot to help them get there.

Recently I was finalist of the BBC Make a Difference Awards for having helped 7,000 children.

I learnt how to fly planes and today, I use my travel experienceI to inspire people like you to find their next travel adventure.

Travel Plans is an immersive podcast with matching articles.

In each episode you and me go on a flight together to a new place. I mean, virtually of course, but I can guarantee you that with me at the cockpit, you’ll never be scared of flying ever again!

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I love how you describe you relationship with your wife and children. 💕

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Sep 28·edited Sep 29Liked by Claire Venus (she/her) ✨

Hi, I’m Jane Shore, an artist, a writer, a researcher, a school founder, a community builder. For more than two decades, I was a research scientist for a huge non profit with a big footprint in education. I loved aspects of that work, including bringing research to practice in real ways…and public speaking (I love it!). In the last few years, I’ve worked to turn data and stories into visuals (inspired by artists like Mona Chalabi).

My most recent project has been to develop the concept of People Based Learning, one that was clarified during my time as a school founder starting in 2018. I am working with youth facilitators to hold conversation campaigns and collect stories about how people learn from and with each other. Would love to have you join! More here.https://schoolofthought.substack.com/p/people-based-learning-a-compaign

My blog, School of Thought, started as an outlet as I was part of the team founding a new school in Phialdelphia, PA, that opened in 2019. School of Thought is a space to share and co-create ideas on the reinvention of learning, where there are a spectrum of ideas and learning can happen everywhere.

Outside of the blog, I support schools and sectors building a creative collective. More here: https://www.schoolofthoughtphl.com/

I would love for you to check out School of Thought. https://schoolofthought.substack.com/.

We are also launching a series of beautiful online gatherings. I hope to see some of you there! https://schoolofthought.substack.com/p/just-added-people-based-learning

(Thank you, Claire, for opening this connecting space!)

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I that you are working to help the next generation!!

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Sep 28Liked by Claire Venus (she/her) ✨

Hi, I’m Karen. I’m a certified speech language pathologist, certified journal writing facilitator and book coach in training. I help those who need a gentle push in the direction of their dreams through journal writing, designed for writers and non-writers.

My publication, The Joy of Story is brought to you with the intention of creating a life with more stories and stories with more life. Besides teaching online workshops, book-club style, I teach locally to those impacted by cancer. THIS has meant everything to me. A destination unplanned and a journey unexpected. Teaching the importance of self awareness through clarity, creativity and cognitive fitness is my recipe for JOY and one that I want to share. The impact of writing stories for this group has been “life-changing”. (Barbara)

Paid subscribers will receive quarterly writing workshops designed to improve self image, craft or writing blocks. (Examples: Creating your unique mantra, Designing a mission statement, Identifying your 4 pillars of authenticity as a writer)

Thank you!

https://open.substack.com/pub/thejoyofstory

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Sep 28Liked by Claire Venus (she/her) ✨

And thank you, Claire, for using the word GOLD. In my classes I teach a TM technique called Scan and Pan - panning for gold nuggets of language that jump off the page. The power of language and how we use it is a key ingredient to the recipe of who we are.

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I love the way you describe stories and storytelling. I am collecting stories now of the ways people learn, and always love to draw out the most connective experiences. Following you!

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Thank you so much! That sounds like an amazing topic - learning is so individualized. If you are in need of guest posts, I would love to share some of my stories. I can already think of SO many. Learning after a stroke, strength-based parenting a child with ADHD, and of course, journaling to discover your learning styles.

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Ooh, I didn’t know you can get certified as a journal writing facilitator. I’ve been journaling since decades, and it’s a wonderful practice, especially when I’m confused or uncertain about something.

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Yes! I honestly didn’t know this either until I was asked to spearhead a class for cancer patients. Don’t you just love what jour asking can do for your body and brain? I will be offering journal info and prompts on my page - I hope to see you there!

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Sep 28Liked by Claire Venus (she/her) ✨

Hi, I’m Jessica, a Voice Coach for public speakers and vocalists, running Impact Vocal Coaching since 2003. I help professional and creative women rediscover their true voices, speak with confidence, and feel seen and heard at work and home.

I’m currently working with an incredible group of mid-career women in my Substack community, Love Your Voice, and I co-host the podcast Girlfriends of a Certain Age for women in midlife. As a mom of two teenage boys, life’s always an adventure!

If you’re looking to elevate your communication skills, join Love Your Voice on Substack, https://jessicaneighbor.substack.com/ ,or, check out my course at www.impactvocalcoaching.com.

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This is so interesting! I use to teach voice rehab from the medical perspective. Voice is a great topic - the external quality, tone, impact and strength and then my Substack’s angle on voice - the internal language we use to talk to ourselves.

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Karen, I'd LOVE to chat more with you about our voices sometime. I once had to rehab my own voice after getting nodes. Fascinating to learn about our vocal instrument!

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Absolutely! I look forward to talking with you.

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Sep 28Liked by Claire Venus (she/her) ✨

Hi everyone! Love learning more about all of your work.

I’m Michelle, I’m a writer and a certified coach who’s got lots of experience disentangling from her own people-pleaser ‘stuff.’ I’m super interesting in exploring questions around what it means to be a woman who feels vital, + connected in the world: emotionally, creatively, all of it.

The Webs We Weave is a hub for personal essays and monthly roundups that are all about staying connected to ourselves, making connections in our creative work, and feeling more connected in the world.

No true paid strategy for me yet, but I’m actively keeping my antenna up for some kind of offering that makes sense and feels like a win/win!

You can read more here: https://michellelacroix.substack.com/

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Hi Michelle! I love your Substack & your writing! And I’ve got a few of your workshops bookmarked for when I have a bit of time to dive into them.

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Oh this makes me so happy! 🥰

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Sep 28·edited Sep 28Liked by Claire Venus (she/her) ✨

Hiya! I'm Sarah, an English florist living in Glasgow. I've been running my own business, Rook Botanics, for several years now. I do everything from bespoke funerals, to hen parties and wreath workshops, to weird and wonderful weddings. I've just finished writing an eBook called 'Flower Arranging at Home' which covers all the knowledge I've learnt over many, many years (I got my first job in a flower shop when I was 14!)

My substack is chock full of flowers. Each week I alternate between sharing a written essay about the behind the scenes of being a florist / running a creative business and a visual essay of florals I've designed. I really, really can't shut up about flowers.

I'd love to connect with other creative business owners - it can get lonely sometimes!

Sarah x

My substack: https://sarahrushbrooke.substack.com/

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Sep 28Liked by Claire Venus (she/her) ✨

Your publication is beautiful! I’ve subscribed ✨

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Thanks so much, Holly! Yours sounds fascinating, I've subscribed too ❤️

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Thanks Sarah! Great to connect with you ✨

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Sep 28·edited Sep 28Liked by Claire Venus (she/her) ✨

Hi all, I'm Layla. A non-fiction / memoir writer living at the foothills of the Wicklow mountains in eastern Ireland with my three kids, partner and too many animals to name! I've written a memoir about my unruly body, longing, belonging and coming home which has found itself an agent and is out on submission soon.

My page here on SS is called beauty & bone. I’m interested in exploring how it feels to write, hold and (m)other on this beautiful, tattered planet right now. For paid subscribers I share through weekly written posts (the heart of it all), live seasonal calls (where we get to explore, connect & support) and my slow podcast (for deeper dives in your own time).

At the moment I'm loving deepening connection with readers through live calls and chats. I've just launched a mini-series called the Element Sessions which draws on my day job as a five element acupuncturist, and that has been a brilliant way to deepen conversations.

Would be lovely to have you pop over to my page, follow along, say hi, you'd be most welcome :-)

https://laylaomara.substack.com/

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I am looking forward to diving deeper into your wisdom, Layla!

Also I'm dreaming of making it to Ireland one day. I am certain it is such a magical place💚

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yes, there is magic here for sure. always welcome here for a cup of tea if you do!

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Hi, I'm Jan and my Substack is Alchemical Wonderings with Jan Elisabeth -- a space to find hope in a challenging world, an invitational space to rest and recreate so that we can serve that world without overwhelm. Through writing, creativity and our connections with the natural world, it’s a space to find community as we make our healing journeys. In all of my posts — whether about writing, creativity, or our herbal allies — we’re exploring: What story do we want to live? What story do we want to write?

-and - How do we want to feel?

https://alchemicalwonderings.substack.com/

The Substack magazine brings together the creative areas of my life. My 'day job' is running an independent publishing house (Cinnamon Press) based in the UK & France and I've been editing poets, novelists and creative non-fiction writers for 20 years and bringing their work to the world.

I also run a writer's community outside Substack (Kith: for a different story -- https://janfortune.com/)

I host a yearly writing community there with workshops, regular prompts and a forum on Mighty Networks and also have two cohorts of writers that I mentor each year (poetry and prose) where I edit a.whole manuscript with them and work 1-1 and they also have group workshops and prompts and a forum. The writers vary from beginners to those PhDs in writing or college professors.

I also write myself -- across genres and my most recent books are a novel set in the forest and a book of haiku poetry about our first year living in a forest

https://cinnamonpress.com/smiling-at-grief-in-a-house-in-a-forest-where-life-grows/

https://cinnamonpress.com/at-worlds-end-begin/

I'm in the last few months of my training as a medical herbalist so will have a herbal practice setting up from 2025 and currently offer some supervised online clinics and seasonal herbal courses (again via Mighty Networks) and have a website for the herbs at https://triskelewell.com/

I live in a tiny hamlet in the forest in Finistére, France with my husband, who is a writer, book cover designer and artist, and youngest son. I have two adult daughters in the UK and one in Seoul, Korea. All home educated many moons ago.

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How very fascinating, Jan! Running an independent publishing house and writing books sounds like a dream job! And living in the forest, swoon!

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Hi!

So.

Who doesn't want less health stress!?

I’m Susie, and I write ‘The Quest for Less Health Stress’ on Substack, and as someone who collects both chronic and acute illness, I hope to encourage, educate, and support others who also suffer.

As a regular contributor to The Mighty, and in my newspaper column called, ‘Expert Patient Here to Help!’ in six Canadian newspapers, I weave practical self-advocacy tips and anecdotal stories and humour (sometimes dark!) to help those with illness feel seen, heard, and understood.

My own list is long: type 1 diabetes, gastroparesis, fibromyalgia, retinopathy (and went blind, needing a hoover to my eyeballs to regain my sight!), and even had a brain tumour removed.

I’ve completed my memoir manuscript called, ‘What If I Deserved It? An emotional journey through a broken body.’

Currently living in the UK with my (jealous) husband Don and my cuddle-buddy Carlos the Chi (that’s why Don’s jealous, ha!), you’ll find me writing in front of a cozy fire, composing music at my piano, or you won’t find me at all, because I’ll be deep in a second-hand charity shop!

Join me on my stack? (When you subscribe, as a thank you, you’ll receive my free list, ‘10 Things (You May Not Have Thought Of) To Get the Best Care At Your Doctor’s Office’ .. https://lesshealthstress.substack.com/

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Your cause sounds wonderful and inspiring Susie! Best of luck with your substack and goals 💚

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Sep 28Liked by Claire Venus (she/her) ✨

Hi, 'Dia Duit' from the mountains of Wicklow, Ireland,

I am a mother to three living children and three babies who did not make it to this world. I have lived through my own experiences of birth and loss have supported thousands of women throughout their journeys. I am a Women’s Health Physiotherapist. I have spoken at international conferences and worked alongside leading doctors in the field of women’s health. I am the daughter of a pharmacist and a nurse. The medical system runs my her blood. I am also the grand-daughter of a seventh son, a man who held 'the cure' as we say in Ireland. I am a reiki healer, a writer and a poet. For so long, I have known there is much more to women’s health, wellbeing and life than what we are experiencing today.

But it was the devastating loss of our baby in the summer of 2022, when I was 22 weeks pregnant and the journey that followed that opened my eyes to the connection that exists between women and the natural world. When life forced me to stop. I found that with grief came unexpected moments of clarity and a recognition of myself in the landscape and in our ancient stories.

Why am I here? To connect to the women who connect to my words. To find anam cara/cairde (Soul Friends). My book is coming, in which I explore through the wisdom of the Celtic Landscape and the myths it holds, what it means to be a woman and what it means to truly heal. When my book is here and complete, that is what I will be selling. But my Substack is free, which is exactly right for me in this moment. I happily and gratefully subscribe to others but for now, mine is a place without expectation (on me as on others) it is a place for women to gather, freely. I am asking you to subscribe and share, if you feel called to come on this journey through nature, woman and wisdom.

Go raibh míle maith agaibh. Thank you. May good be on you a thousand times...

Here is my latest essay on substack... https://open.substack.com/pub/aoibhinswift/p/after-equinox-mist?r=u9nn0&utm_campaign=post&utm_medium=web

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Hi Aoibhín, I'm so sorry to hear of your loss, that is a terribly hard thing to go through. Your work sounds wonderful, and very aligned with mine - I'm also in Wicklow (Ballycullen, near Devil's Glen) and when not writing am a 5 Element Acupuncturist! I'm sure we must have people in common, Ireland being Ireland!

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Hi Layla! Lovely to meet you! I'm on the other side, Stratford on Slaney, near Baltinglass and I work in Naas. Lots in common. We could meet in the middle and have stroll around Glendalough!

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yes! that would wonderful - I’ve already had a sea swim with a fellow substacker, it’s so great to bring the online to life sometimes!

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Sep 28Liked by Claire Venus (she/her) ✨

Hello. I am Shell from Stories With Shell. A retired English teacher writing for both therapy & enjoyment.

https://substack.com/@shellnorman

My Substack features stories from the past in a creative, nonfiction style for whom I am discovering are my ideal readers--those who search for identity & purpose. Those who feel they have lost their way, or, metaphorically, fallen through the ice at some point. Looking at experiences from a different vantage point--one that sprinkles in some wisdom, I try to shine a light forward so that readers find themselves in the stories and feel hope budding, hope that restoration is possible.

Join me on that path to solid ground.

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I really like the sound of that, Shell. I think many of us have gone through phases of looking for our identity and purpose.

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Sep 28Liked by Claire Venus (she/her) ✨

Hi I am Janet/ Grannie Jan to my grandkids and - JR on my Podcast 🎙️

I am in my third act-

Cultivating an inspiring garden of HOPE.✨

Where you can learn how to rewire your brain, build resilience and embrace technology. We want to walk confidently together into the future.

I am helping folks reduce their anxieties about AI and the future so we can all thrive.🌷

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I think we all need a bit more hope in these times! It will be interesting to read your perspectives on AI. There is so much to consider about this new technology, and the ethics around it.

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Yes, hope seems to be in short supply. Indeed there is a wide range of perspectives and feelings.

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Sep 28Liked by Claire Venus (she/her) ✨

Hiii lovelies! It’s so nice to meet you! I’m TJ and I’m an illustrator for the seekers of magic and a storyteller for the wandering hearts. I just moved through a pretty big burnout, which I call The Pause, and I’m rebuilding my magical little world at the moment. I felt the call to begin with sharing my words again and I took a chance with Substack and I’m so glad that I did! 🤗

I’m still tweaking my world on here, but I’ve been sharing my art and gentle musings to remind others and myself of the magic we carry within and the wonders we can find all around us.

I haven’t activated the paid subscriptions yet as I have Patreon where I create a monthly new art design that you can collect as a bookmark and/or 5x7in print. Because I’m still implementing changes, I have to feel out what I’d love to do here without giving myself more work, haha.

If you twirl by, I hope you’ll love what you see!! And Claire, as always, thank for being so fabulously sparkly and wonderful! ✨♥️

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Illustrator for seekers of magic — sign me up already! (I’m a mixed media artist, sharing my art and heart here on Substack. It’s quite a nice little place to be, isn’t it?)

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Sep 29Liked by Claire Venus (she/her) ✨

Ohh YAY! How absolutely fabulous to meet another seeker of magic! 🥰 It's so lovely to meet you, Shinjini! 💕 I looked at your profile photo just now, - in a non-creepy way, I promise - and you look so very familiar. I can't place it, but maybe I've seen you on IG in the past?

Substack is a wonderful little place indeed. So glad I gave it another go again! 🥰✨

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Could be! I’m moderngypsy.in on IG. Lovely to meet you!

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Sep 28Liked by Claire Venus (she/her) ✨

Hi there! I'm Robin, a novelist and poet, and the author of four books. My latest novel (Guernica, 2026) is River of Dreams. I’m also a professional life coach specializing in transformation and the creative process—subjects at the heart of my life and work. I help people transform old stories into better ones and change their lives in amazing ways.

A few months ago, I joined Substack and began writing posts at Awakening Wonder. Somehow, whether wonder guides us inward or points to something bigger than ourselves, it gives us hope. And that’s what I’m all about. My WHY is to intrigue, enchant, and move people through my stories and poetry, so they find new meaning and come away inspired to grow.

Today, after creating 15 posts for everyone, I finally scheduled my first video talk exclusively for paid subscribers. These longer videos will arrive on the last Sunday of the month—each one, an opportunity to relax, get cozy, and reconnect with the wishes of your soul. For paid subscribers, I’m delivering tools and proven practices for shifting to a vision-driven way of living. This is a space for self-nurture, creative restoration, and powerful dreaming.

Here’s a link to Awakening Wonder: https://robinblackburnmcbride.substack.com/

Let me know if this resonates. Thank you for reading!

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All of this sounds wonderful, Robin. Looks like you have a very solid plan in place. All the best!

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Thank you, Shinjini!

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Sep 28Liked by Claire Venus (she/her) ✨

Hi, I'm Sue Kuenzi, and my masters degree is in Rehab Counseling. For many years I had a private counseling practice, and I enjoy integrating spirituality with brain science in my work. I live with multiple sclerosis, so I retired from counseling and now operate Tenderly Transformed Coaching in Oregon. I meet with people in person, but also offer telehealth, though, so I serve people around the world who want help to grow, heal and experience transformation. I am married and we have a demanding Aussie Mt Doodle puppy who will eventually help me with mobility as he matures.

I love photography, and I sometimes sell my blank cards or prints of my work. Sometimes I take pictures for friends for their engagement or weddings, or senior pictures. But that's just a hobby business that provides joy and pays for itself. I create workshops for writers who want to develop a life giving writing practice and utilize brain science to address self limiting beliefs and to address creative anxiety or things like imposter syndrome. I also have developed workshops for organizations or individuals on topics like compassion fatigue and resilience, or adjusting to change and loss associated with health challenges.

I genuinely love helping people and find my current work with coaching clients very energizing and life giving. I still sell my workbook that I wrote (100 pages or so) on the topic of grief related to disability or health struggles, but I plan to launch a revision next year. I am currently writing a book called Tenderly Transformed: Growing and Healing Through Turbulent Times about the things that throw us off balance in life, and ways we can continue to experience transformation and get unstuck.

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Hi Sue! 👋

So much depth that you bring that will benefit others! Thank you for all you do!

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Hi Mika, I appreciate your encouragement. Thankful to be here.

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Sep 28Liked by Claire Venus (she/her) ✨

Hi I'm Clare! I'm a Media Analyst at AllSides.com, which means I write and research about political bias in the news with an emphasis on bridging divides. As a writer, it may not be surprising that I'm fascinated by the way word choice and framing can change the same news story.

At The Mestiza, I write about identity and self improvement. I love learning about psychology and meditation, which are common themes in my writing, and looking for the best vegan food in Ohio. I'm not offering anything for paid subscribers at the minute, but I hope to in the near future!

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Gosh, so many people are wanting to sensationalise! But you are wanting to bridge the divide. I love that!

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Sep 28Liked by Claire Venus (she/her) ✨

Hi everyone, On Substack I publish poetry, spoken word, stories, photography and I’m currently in the process of writing my first book. Amongst other inspirations, my work and play here is informed by different healing and somatic practices such as shamanism, dance, improvisation, intuitive voice, rewilding, plant medicine and meditation. I’m currently exploring how to integrate my work as an intuitive healer more into what I offer on Substack. I really love that the platform offers the opportunity to weave all these in one place in a creative and coherent manner.

My art is also informed by my strong connection with the earth. I live fairly remotely in Pembrokeshire, Wales, in a land based community where we grow food, make music together, open up the community for community celebrations and offer regular kirtan and improv sessions. I refer to my Substack as a garden and I consider it an organic extension of my life here.

Link to my Substack

https://artemisrosearcher.substack.com/

Thanks for this opportunity Claire. I’ve just joined Beth Kempton’s SoulCircle as would love to connect with more like hearted souls, your community is also very much in my awareness and I may get to delve deeper at some point. I look forward to connecting with others here on the thread through their Substack.

Thank you 🙏

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Loved reading about your journey! Welcome!

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I am Liza, a Social Anthropologist, who spent 20 years working in and on a number of cultures/societies in Sub Saharan Africa (Burkina Faso, Ethiopia, Uganda). I am passionate about equality, and inclusion. I went from a career in academia where I wrote about food, gender, youth and religion, to a career in research for development focusing on natural resource management, water governance and agriculture and finally left it all after 20 years, to become an independent consultant and a Co-Active Coach.

In my Substack, Sharing Secrets (and Other Useful Stuff) I share ideas and tips on how to live a more fulfilled personal and professional life. I write based on my personal experience and also use examples from my coaching work. I hope that sharing my successes and failures can help others.

I am new to Substack and am currently learning how to keep writing regularly, and not get distracted by comparison with other Substacks.

I also love to read, cook and eat.

https://lizadebevec.substack.com/

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Sounds so fascinating! I’m sure a lot of people would be interested in your journey and what you learned from it. 👌

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Sep 28Liked by Claire Venus (she/her) ✨

Hi all! I'm Cassandra and I live on an island on the west coast of Canada with my husband and our dog, Chewie.

I'm self-employed and work as a virtual assistant to female entrepreneurs in a variety of industries. I love all things systems and organization, so that plays a big role in my work.

I started my Substack, Notes from a Kindred Spirit, in December. It's a bi-weekly newsletter about embracing curiosity, exploring hobbies, living with chronic illness, and finding contentment in the everyday. I talk a lot about two of my favourite things: books and Bullet Journaling!

I don't have paid subscriptions turned on for my Substack at the moment, but I did just launch my first Etsy product this week! If you're a book club host or a bookworm who doesn't know what to read next, you can check it out here: https://www.etsy.com/ca/listing/1799905549/curated-book-list-book-recommendations

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I love the freedom from bullet journalling - but also I know it can consume me as well. 😅

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I could see that being a problem! What part of it can consume you? All the decorating and making it look nice? Or something else?

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All the ideas! And the decorating 🤣

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That's fair! I've been doing it for many years now so I've been able to narrow things down to only the spreads that I actually use and that work best for me. And since I'm not artistically inclined in that way, I'm usually only decorating with washi, stamps, and stickers so that helps! But it is definitely tempting to buy more and more washi and stickers. 😂

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Sep 29Liked by Claire Venus (she/her) ✨

Hello all! What a wonderful idea to share. Here goes:

I’m Christine. I retired last year after 18 years of providing pastoral support in a homeless shelter, working with the poor, marginalized and addicted. Prior to retirement, I felt called to meld my writing experience (3 published books of fiction) with my ministry, hence the creation of Bless All Times here on Substack.

Bless All Times appears every Sunday and Wednesday and looks at finding God in unexpected places and in ways that may be underrepresented in the institutional church (whatever that may mean to you).

I have been on Substack since the start of 2024, and find it has, and evokes, spirit, authenticity and compassion. Thanks to all who’ve inspired me. I hope my work might inspire you!

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I love that Substack attracts so many wise and caring people.

I love your idea and I hope you are able to find and be found by people who can benefit from your writing. 💕

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Sep 29Liked by Claire Venus (she/her) ✨

Hi 👋 I’m Chanee, I live in Melbourne, Australia and I only just joined Substack last week! I spent a long time thinking about joining and finally decided to just do it. And I’m glad I did. Sometimes starting is the biggest step. I write about finding - and keeping - motivation, how to stay inspired and general life updates. Would love to hear about you, though!! You can find me here : https://chanee.substack.com :)

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Welcome, Chanee! Sometimes it’s best to just dive in and find your way.

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Sep 29Liked by Claire Venus (she/her) ✨

I’m Kendall, I help women grow gorgeous gardens in 10 minutes a day as the antidote to burnout.

Paid subscribers receive weekly mindful gardening activities to actually get them gardening and quietening their minds without the overthinking/ second guessing.

https://adventureswithflowers.substack.com

I’m running a Colour Masterclass on Monday 30th September for people who are fed up with looking out on a sea of brown and green and desperately want bold bright coloured blooms filling their garden.

https://www.adventureswithflowers.com/thecolourmasterclass

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Oooh lovely! Just 10 minutes a day? That sounds quite doable!

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Yup! Some activities are longer but I give you tips on how to break them down into shorter slots. You don’t need to have hours and hours to garden 😍🌱

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Sep 28Liked by Claire Venus (she/her) ✨

Hello there! I’m Camille, an author and astrologer from Colorado. I write astrology forecasts here on substack.

As an author, artist and astrologer, my aim is to empower women, writers and other creatives tap into the ever fluctuating energies to better their relationships, careers, and creative lives. I love making astrology a more practical, useful tool for all.

Paid subscribers get full access to in-depth horoscopes, podcast episodes and astrology workshops, including my Moon Sign Mastery workshop (a class about your emotional intelligence and inner landscape).

Most recently, I’ve launched my novel, Jupiter Returns! It’s a romantic comedy / chick lit novel that explores the intersection of astrology, relationships, and being a young woman.

You can read the first few chapters, and take a peek at my horoscopes / forecasts on The Cosmic Almanac: https://cosmiccannibal.substack.com/

Nice to meet you all!!

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Astrology and art, what a lovely combination! I often combine tarot and art; it makes for a wonderfully grounding and meaningful practice. Your substack sounds very interesting!

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Oct 1Liked by Claire Venus (she/her) ✨

Ooh, yes! The combination of tarot and art sounds lovely. Also thank you!

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