When you first sit down to write, I want you to try something controversial. Throw all thoughts of SEO out the window. Think only of your reader and write content for him or her, not for search engines.

Although pop-ups seem to be the overwhelming trend in online marketing, they're not the only way to grow your list. If pop-ups feel off-brand for your business, here are some classier, more subtle ways to invite readers to join your community.

People visit Santa Cruz from all over the country to sunbathe on our beautiful beaches and explore our towering redwood forests. People don’t come here, however, for the San Lorenzo River. A celebration of the river called Meander, brought 200 people together to inspire community members to take part in revitalizing the under-appreciated waterway.

Do you hit your head on the wall when trying to write a blog post for your company’s website? You’re not alone. It’s really hard to write about yourself and your business, but there's a simple practice that can make it much easier.

I’m a huge fan of memoirs and tend to gravitate toward works of nonfiction versus literary novels. This wasn't always the case but ever since college I've felt slightly guilty every time I pick up a work of fiction. Until, that is, I learned about the field of bibliotherapy.