LIVE with The Famous Dr AL and Sheila Bender

• Sheila Bender is a poet, essayist, memoirist, and master teacher who has guided numerous individuals in writing from personal experience.
• Her belief is that there is no bad writing, only opportunities for good writing, echoing the sentiment that good rewriting is essential.
• Bender has served as a distinguished lecturer in poetry for Seattle University, taught writing at Loyola Marymount University in Los Angeles, and played a leading role in the Centrum Foundation's Port Townsend, Washington Writers Conference.

Early Beginnings in Writing

• Bender shares her journey, beginning at the age of 32, when she decided to pursue her passion for writing after the birth of her daughter, Emily Ruth Bender.
• Despite already being a teacher, she longed to be a writer and poet, which she began exploring during her daughter's early months.
• Bender's formal writing education commenced with a class at the University of Washington under the tutelage of David Wagner, a renowned poet.

Impact of Writing on Bender's Life

• Writing fundamentally changed Bender's life, empowering her to express her truth authentically and leading to her separation and divorce.
• Despite societal expectations, she found the courage to pursue her passion for writing, ultimately transforming her life and relationships.
• Bender's commitment to teaching and sharing her writing journey reflects her desire to help others overcome insecurities and unlock their creative potential.

Teaching Writing and Breaking Barriers

• Bender emphasizes the importance of breaking barriers to writing by embracing the process of invention, shaping, and editing.
• She advocates for unconventional methods to stimulate creativity, such as engaging the senses and letting go of self-doubt.
• Teaching and mentoring aspiring writers bring fulfillment to Bender's life, fostering a sense of purpose and joy.

Writing Process and Overcoming Challenges

• Bender highlights the significance of starting the writing process without judgment or inhibition, emphasizing the role of perseverance and self-belief.
• Collaborating with editors and developmental editors can enhance the writing journey, providing valuable feedback and guidance.
• She encourages writers to explore different genres and forms, allowing for creative expression and potential publication opportunities.

Living a Fantastic Life Through Writing

• Bender attributes her fulfillment and happiness to her dedication to writing and teaching, embracing the journey of self-expression and growth.
• She advises listeners to cultivate a positive mindset, embrace imperfection, and prioritize self-expression to live a fantastic life.

Where to Find Sheila Bender and Her Work

• Bender's books, including "Since Then: Poems and Short Prose" and "Writing Personal Essays: Shaping and Sharing Your Life Experience," are available on Amazon.
• Visit Bender's website, Writing It Real, to learn more about her classes, books, and writing resources.

Conclusion and Call to Action

• Dr. Allen Lycka encourages listeners to visit Life Quality Assessment to assess their journey toward a fantastic life and potentially win prizes.
• With gratitude, the interview concludes, leaving listeners inspired to embrace their creative journey and pursue a fulfilling life.