Hi, I’m Estelle Erasmus—your literary fairy godmother (with a red pen and decades of experience).
I’m a former magazine editor-in-chief (of five national titles), NYU journalism professor, TEDx speaker, and author of Writing That Gets Noticed. I’ve spent my career shaping stories for top publications—and now I help writers like you do the same.
I also host the award-winning podcast Freelance Writing Direct, named Podcast of the Year (Education) by the American Writing Awards. Each week, I bring you candid, career-boosting conversations with bestselling authors, top editors, and publishing insiders.
Whether you’re crafting a personal essay, memoir, op-ed, or pitch, this space is where I share the sharpest strategies, editorial insights, and career-building tools to elevate your writing and expand your voice.
Here on Substack, I share:
Insider craft advice and editorial strategies
Pitching tips and publishing leads
Candid advice, publishing secrets, and encouragement from someone who knows the industry from the inside out.
Behind-the-scenes takeaways from my podcast (including bonus clips just for paid subscribers)
Personal essay and micro memoir review opportunities
Encouragement, support, and the occasional tough love to move your writing forward
Estelle’s Edge—my signature take on what makes a piece stand out in today’s crowded publishing landscape
I also run private Zoom workshops for former and current students, contribute to Writer’s Digest, and mentor writers navigating their next big piece—or their first.
When I’m not writing or editing, I’m a wife and mom to a teenage daughter who’s been my muse—and will be again (once she’s out of this “teen” phase).
I love teaching, writing, editing, magazines and online publications—and helping inspire people to build their craft.
I hope I can be your literary fairy godmother.
Let’s get your writing noticed. And published.
✨ Want even more?
Become a paid subscriber for exclusive access to:
Bonus podcast content and behind-the-scenes interviews
Intel on essay outlets and pitch-friendly publications
Writing prompts, pitch feedback, and subscriber Q&As
Early access to workshops and special events
Personalized newsletter shoutouts and subscriber-only opportunities
Subscribe now to get the tools, tips, and insider secrets you need—delivered straight to your inbox.
📬 Why subscribe?
Subscribing gives you full access to the newsletter and archives—so you’ll never miss an update. I share craft advice, pitching opportunities, bonus podcast content, Estelle’s Edge insights, and personal feedback offerings for writers like you. Thank you for supporting my work and becoming part of this growing community.
✨ Want even more?
Become a paid subscriber for exclusive access to:
Bonus podcast content and behind-the-scenes interviews
Intel on essay outlets and pitch-friendly publications
Essay openings and micro memoir analysis
Writing prompts, pitch feedback, and subscriber Q&As
Early access to workshops and special events
Personalized newsletter shoutouts and subscriber-only opportunities
Full access to the newsletter and archives
Subscribe now to get the tools, tips, and insider secrets you need—delivered straight to your inbox.
Stay up-to-date
You won’t have to worry about missing anything. Every new edition of the newsletter goes directly to your inbox.
Join the crew
Be part of a community of people who share your interests.
To find out more about the company that provides the tech for this newsletter, visit Substack.com.
