Erin Willder currently lives in Provo, Utah.
What are some names of the books or other media you have created?
My main mission is to help others publish good content—I’m usually the wind beneath someone else’s wings! I’ve edited, designed, and published many books over my 28-year career. Some of the more well-known titles have been books in the Unofficial Guide series (Macmillan) and technical manuals for SAAS-based technology companies. In addition to my work at BYU, I also produce high-end personal histories and am writing a book series to help trauma survivors create a life they love.
What inspired you to become a creator of media?
At age 12, I tested into a GT writing program at a local college, which I attended for two years. It was during that time that I decided to focus on publishing.
What has been the highlight of your career so far?
Being a part of LDSPMA in these early years has been exhilarating. I believe in our mission. I believe in LDSPMA members and the exponential effects their creations will have in and on the world. We champion the missionary work of self-declared media missionaries (no nametags required)! 🙂 These efforts must happen before the Savior’s return. The best way to “sweep the earth as with a flood” is to synergize, partnering for maximum effectiveness.
What was the best advice you’ve ever been given in your creative journey?
To keep revising. It’s during the editing that the genius ideas emerge. I didn’t fully understand that until I heard Shannon Hale describe how editing brought out the best parts in The Princess Academy. For me, there’s a sweet spot past the point when you want to stop working on a piece—it usually turns out to be about 3/4 of the way to the finish line that the most magical moments start happening.
What advice do you have for someone just starting out in your field?
Practice, practice, practice. Starting a writing practice—free and easy writing—gives you playtime to blurt out all the stuff in your head so you can sort and organize the good parts later. Natalie Goldberg’s classic advice lives on.
What keeps you inspired in your daily creative work?
Stale as it sounds, I truly want to help make the world a better, brighter place. Countless dangers threaten to block the blessings we are otherwise entitled to enjoy. My dearest wish is to play any role in helping my brothers and sisters return Home safely.