In this episode of the BuildWriting Podcast, I sit down with the incredible Cindy Watson—social justice lawyer, award-winning author, founder of Women On Purpose, and someone whose writing journey blends activism, vulnerability, courage, and deep human insight.

What starts as a conversation about writing turns into one of the most reflective, honest, and transformative discussions I’ve ever had on this show. We talk about fiction vs. nonfiction, fear, creativity, parenting, mortality, advocacy, poetry, authenticity, and the real reason we write.

This episode changed me. I think it might change you too.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction & who Cindy is
02:00 Why fiction scares her more than nonfiction
05:00 Vulnerability, validation, and the fear of being judged
09:00 Making time to write vs. waiting for the “right time”
14:00 Her daughter’s surgery & how it changed her life and writing
18:00 What publishing really feels like
23:00 Writing for love vs. writing for validation
30:00 Poetry, emotion, and finding your inner voice
36:00 The surprising origin of The Art of Feminine Negotiation
51:00 My metaphysical questions on writing, success, and poetry
56:00 Where to find Cindy + our closing reflections

Connect With Cindy Watson

Learn more about Cindy’s work and mission:

🔗 Women On Purpose — https://womenonpurpose.ca
🎙️ Check out her podcast: The Art of Feminine Negotiation Podcast

She’d love to connect with listeners who care about writing, advocacy, and living with intention.

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A creative life grows when we grow it together.