Inside Kidlit with Agent Joyce Sweeney
Writers With Wrinkles
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Navigating KidLit and Publishing Realities with Agent Joyce Sweeney

Send us a text Episode Summary: In this episode of Writers With Wrinkles, literary agent and author Joyce Sweeney joins Beth and Lisa to explore the challenges and opportunities in today’s publishing landscape. With decades of experience, Joyce shares invaluable advice for writers on market trends, querying, agent relationships, and staying resilient in a tough industry. Guest Bio: Joyce Sweeney is the Director of KidLit at The Seymour Agency, where they’ve worked as a literary agent for fi...

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Recent Episodes

July 21, 2025

Navigating KidLit and Publishing Realities with Agent Joyce Sweeney

Send us a text Episode Summary: In this episode of Writers With Wrinkles, literary agent and author Joyce Sweeney joins Beth and Lisa to explore the challenges and opportunities in today’s publishing landscape. With decades of experience, Joyce shares invaluable advice for writers on market trends,…

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July 14, 2025

BONUS: How to Write Action That Kids Can’t Put Down (an interview wit…

Send us a text 🎙️ Episode Summary: In this bonus episode, Beth McMullen switches roles from co-host to guest to explore how to write compelling action and adventure for middle grade readers. Originally recorded for Sara Gentry's KidLit Summer Camp, this conversation is packed with practical tips an…

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July 7, 2025

Is AI a Useful Tool? (An Ask B&L Episode)

Send us a text In this Ask Beth & Lisa episode, the hosts dive into the complex topic of using artificial intelligence as a writing tool. They share personal anecdotes, practical strategies, and ethical considerations for writers navigating AI in the creative process. Key Discussion Points: Rec…

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June 23, 2025

From Rough Draft to Ready: Editor Joel Brigham on Revisions That Sell

Send us a text In this information-packed episode, editor Joel Brigham returns to dive deep into the art of revision, breaking down the essential steps writers must take to polish their manuscripts. From identifying critical story beats to understanding character agency and narrative pacing, Joel o…

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June 9, 2025

Drafting Without Fear: Writing Momentum and Mistakes to Avoid, with e…

Send us a text Beth and Lisa are joined by editor and author Joel Brigham to discuss the messy, magical process of drafting. Joel shares practical advice to help writers overcome perfectionism and keep their momentum through the challenging early stages of a manuscript. Guest Bio: Joel Brigham is a…

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May 26, 2025

To Edit or Not to Edit? (An Ask B&L Episode)

Send us a text Episode Summary: In this engaging Ask B&L episode, Beth McMullen and Lisa Schmid tackle two of the most commonly asked questions from aspiring authors: what is voice in writing and how do you navigate the editorial process? With personal anecdotes, practical advice, and a whole l…

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Recent Blog Posts

July 21, 2025

Inside KidLit, Queries, and Publishing Trends with Joyce Sweeney

Episode Summary:In this insightful episode of Writers With Wrinkles, literary agent and author Joyce Sweeney shares her perspective on the challenges and possibilities within the world of traditional publishing. From query red flags to the resilienc…

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July 7, 2025

Is AI a Useful Tool?

In this Ask Beth & Lisa episode, the hosts tackle one of the most talked-about subjects in publishing: artificial intelligence. They share how writers can ethically and effectively incorporate AI into their creative process without compromising …

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June 23, 2025

How to Turn Your Draft Into a Polished Novel: Editor Joel Brigham Bre…

Episode Summary In this episode of Writers With Wrinkles, professional editor Joel Brigham returns to deliver a revision roadmap for writers ready to transform rough drafts into submission-ready manuscripts. Packed with actionable tips, this episod…

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About the Hosts

Beth McMullen Profile Photo

Beth McMullen

Author

Beth McMullen is the author of the Mrs. Smith’s Spy School for Girls series , the Lola Benko, Treasure Hunter series, and The Secret of the Storm series (Aladdin/S&S).

She is also the author of the Spy Mom series (Hyperion).

Beth lives in Northern California with her husband, kids, and very grumpy cats. She's obsessed with podcasts and might give up writing in order to have more time to listen. Could happen.

Lisa Schmid Profile Photo

Lisa Schmid

Author

Lisa is the author of OLLIE OXLEY AND THE GHOST and HART & SOULS.

When not scaring up ghostly adventures, she visits schools and libraries to discuss writing and books. She lives in Northern California with her husband, son, two dogs, and one very sneaky hamster.

Reviews

Funny, Entertaining & Accurate

"I love listening to Lisa & Beth! Not only do they have great guests but they tackle real issues in the publishing industry and really look to help querying authors. Keep going ladies!"

Jocelyn Watkinson | Jan. 15, 2024

Like getting incredible children’s publishing advice from friends!

"Listening to Beth and Lisa is like getting insight into the children’s publishing industry from good friends. As seasoned authors who are still submitting and selling their work, their perspective br…"

Jill Terlep | Feb. 18, 2024

Such generous and knowledgeable hosts

"Two highly successful authors of both adult and children’s books share their deep knowledge of the industry from an idea to the sell. And they are in your corner each step of the way. If you are thin…"

Country Girl | Feb. 27, 2024

Love these ladies!

"I stumbled upon Writers With Wrinkles purely by accident, and I’m so glad I did. As a writer I love listening to them chat and laugh about this crazy career, and the author interviews are fantastic.…"

lvanweel | March 22, 2024

Top notch podcast on all things Kidlit

"Beth and Lisa are the real deal - and genuine in every way. In the know on craft, on top of trends, interviews and more, both writers share their insights, inform and engage listeners who leave feeli…"

Deb S. | Sept. 25, 2024