Success Story Interview:
Mindy McHorse
How to Build a Writing Business That Grows With Your Life
For nearly two decades, Mindy McHorse has built a writing career that's evolved alongside her life—not in spite of it. From long-form sales letters to ghostwriting books, editing Barefoot Writer, coaching writers through imposter syndrome, and launching a passion-driven pet loss community, Mindy has continually reinvented her business while staying grounded in the persuasive writing skills that started it all.
In this Inside AWAI conversation with Executive Director Katie Yeakle, Mindy shares how she intentionally designed multiple complementary writing businesses that fit her changing priorities as a writer, business owner, and mother of four. She explains why she transitioned from fast-turnaround copy projects to long-term ghostwriting assignments, how overcoming imposter syndrome became one of her life's missions, and why copywriting remains the foundation beneath every venture she's built—from newsletters and coaching to community building and book writing.
Perhaps most inspiring is Mindy's belief that success isn't built through hustle alone. Throughout the interview, she reveals the surprising role self-care, community, and continuous learning have played in helping her maintain a thriving six-figure writing career for nearly 20 years. Her practical advice on productivity, mindset, and business-building offers a refreshing reminder that sustainable success comes from designing a career that supports the life you want to live—not the other way around.
What You'll Learn
- How Mindy built her successful writing businesses by adding one opportunity at a time instead of trying to do everything at once.
- Why ghostwriting became the perfect fit for her season of life—and how longer-term projects created greater flexibility for her family.
- The mindset shifts that help writers recognize, manage, and move beyond imposter syndrome.
- Why copywriting skills continue to power every successful writing business.
- Mindy's unconventional productivity habits—including movement, learning while exercising, strategic naps, and designing work around her natural energy.
- Why self-care isn't a luxury—it's one of the biggest productivity advantages a freelance writer can develop.
- Why newsletters remain one of the smartest, most stable specialties for freelance writers looking to build long-term client relationships.
- And more!
This conversation is filled with practical wisdom for writers at every stage of their careers. Whether you're just getting started or looking to evolve your business into its next chapter, Mindy demonstrates that a successful writing career isn't built by following someone else's blueprint—it's built by intentionally creating work that aligns with your strengths, your values, and the life you want to lead.
Recommended Resources:
- How to Become a Sought-After, High-Income Ghostwriter
- The Barefoot Writer
- The AWAI Method™ for Becoming a Skilled, In-Demand Copywriter
The AWAI Method™ for Becoming a Skilled, In-Demand Copywriter
The AWAI Method™ combines the most up-to-date strategies, insights, and teaching methods with the tried-and-true copywriting fundamentals so you can take on ANY project — not just sales letters. Learn More »
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