Life & Work with Alice Sullivan

Today, we’d like to introduce you to Alice Sullivan.

Thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
I graduated from Cumberland University in 2001 with a triple minor (English, Anthropology, and Sociology) and no idea what to do next. Thankfully, after noticing my love of language, one of my professors hired me to edit his latest book. From there, I began applying for any and all editorial jobs I could find between Nashville and Knoxville. Soon, Thomas Nelson Publishers (now HarperCollins) hired me as a ghostwriter and editor. And thus began my literary career.

Can you talk to us about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way? Looking back, would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
It’s been 95% smooth, with a few bumps now and then.

Learning how to manage my finances was an ugly and early lesson. A few years into being a freelancer, I received a $16,000 bill from the IRS. I’m now a huge proponent of saving 30% off everything I make for taxes and investing.

I also had to learn how to set boundaries around my time and my energy. Before I realized I needed to set (and maintain) some standard work hours, I’d take calls and answer emails 24/7. I even had one client call me at 2 a.m. because she had a good idea. I finally realized I needed boundaries, and I didn’t have to respond immediately to every form of communication, especially if it was outside of my work hours.

In addition to the time boundaries, I have set some additional energy and topical boundaries. Because of the nature of my work in helping trauma survivors retell their stories, conversations can become heavy and dark at times. And that’s part of the process. What I’ve had to remind myself of (and a few clients) now and again is that while I’m an active listener, I’m not a licensed therapist.

So, I’ve learned how to gently redirect conversations back to the topic at hand.

Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I’m known for nonfiction books, specifically memoirs, business and thought leadership, and self-help. I’m most proud when my authors receive positive feedback from readers. I’ve worked on two memoirs that brought family members together after many years of separation. That’s a great feeling!

After 23 years in publishing, I think what sets me apart in my field is that I’ve mastered the art of active listening, asking great questions, and building trust quickly. My goal is to make the process enjoyable and easy for the author, so all they have to do is tell me their stories.

Pricing:

• Book Proposals: $25,000
• Full-length memoirs or business books begin at $225,000

Contact Info:

• Website: https://alicesullivan.com
• Instagram: @alicewrites
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alicewrites/