This week on the Get Writing Podcast, we’re joined by journalist, editor, and debut novelist Sarah Seltzer—whose creative journey proves that persistence, passion and a little rock and roll can carry you through even the toughest chapters of life.
Sarah's novel is deeply rooted in music, romance and identity, and in this episode, we explore the intersections of real-life inspiration and fictional magic. From the tangled legacy of Bob Dylan and Joan Baez to the enduring impact of Lilith Fair and the Greenwich Village music scene, Sarah reflects on how women’s voices—past and present—have shaped culture, creativity, and her own writing.
In this episode, we talk about:
• Sarah’s process from idea to published book
• The enduring power of fictional and real-life rock & roll romances
• How Sarah wrote her own song lyrics for the book
• Pop culture characters we wish were real—and why they stick with us
• The often-overlooked contributions of women to the Greenwich Village music scene
• What it really takes to keep writing when everything else gets in the way
Whether you’re a music lover, an aspiring writer, or just someone who adores great storytelling, this conversation will inspire you to dust off your dreams and get writing—no matter what stage of the journey you’re on.
More about Sarah:
Sarah is a writer, journalist, and editor whose work has appeared in outlets like The New York Times, The Washington Post, Slate, and Vulture. Her fiction blends pop culture, music history, and complex relationships with emotional depth and clarity. Her debut novel is a love letter to reinvention, artistic passion, and the healing power of story.
🔗 Links & Resources:
• Sarah’s website: sarahseltzer.wordpress.com
• Follow Sarah on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sarahmseltzer/
• More episodes of the Get Writing Podcast: https://lizmugavero.substack.com/s/get-
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Chapters
04:58 Introduction to The Singer Sisters
05:59 The Influence of Music on Writing
09:46 Exploring Female Musicians in History
13:58 Family Dynamics and Secrets in the Novel
16:39 Researching the Music Scene
22:32 The Creative Process of Writing Lyrics
27:50 The Role of Women in Music
40:20 The Long Road to Publication
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