In this, our first episode, Ana Hartnett shares her journey from hating writing to becoming my favorite romance novelist. She discusses the intersection of creativity and anxiety, the importance of community building, and how now, more than ever, authentic queer representation matters. She also talks about starting her first wine label, Family Room Wine, and how she wants to use it as a platform for helping lift up other small queer-owned businesses.

Ana lets us into her writing process, showing us how her unique approach creates intimate, authentic stories that will leave you hopeful and less alone.

I also pick a fight with her.

I hope you enjoy our conversation as much as I did.

Chapters

• 00:00 - Welcome and Introducing Ana Hartnett
• 03:09 - How Ana Realized She was an Artist
• 11:23 - The Relationship Between Anxiety and Creativity
• 14:45 - Being a Writer v. Being an Author and How to be Both
• 17:12 - Ana's Writing Practice
• 24:01 - How Ana Understands Inspiration
• 27:35 - How Ana Knows When a Story is Ready to be Told
• 31:35 - Why Ana Wanted to Start Family Room Wine
• 35:29 - Why Having an Explicitly Queer Brand as a Writer and Winemaker Matters
• 37:51 - The Importance of Representation
• 39:50 - Talking About Ana's New Book
• 46:06 - The Romance of Friendship
• 52:30 - Real, Messy People are Likable People
• 54:43 - Ana's Mom is Her (*second*) Biggest Fan
• 59:40 - I Pick a Fight With Ana

Links

Find Ana on Instagram, Threads, and her website

Check out Family Room Wine