No Wasted Ink Newsletter & Ramblecast - November 2025

Welcome to the monthly No Wasted Ink Newsletter. My name is Wendy Van Camp and I’m Poet Laureate Emerita from the City of Anaheim, California. This newsletter is not affiliated with the city. All views stated here are my own.

This month has felt like a breath of fresh air, a time of creativity and forward motion in my writing life. I’ll be taking part in the SFWA’s Quasar Conference, a brand-new virtual gathering of professional science fiction and fantasy authors. The SFWA Poetry Committee has been invited to join, and I’m honored to serve as their moderator. I can’t wait for the conversations that will unfold during our panel. It’s always inspiring to see how speculative poetry continues to evolve and find its place in the broader SFF community.

Closer to home, I’m thrilled to share that I’ve been invited to appear at the Orange County Book Fair. For the first time, the fair will feature a full poetry stage, showcasing the students of the Orange County School of the Arts, a group of professional poets (including myself), and many others. After my panel, I’ll be partnering once again with Mystery Ink for a book signing session.

Of course, most days still find me in my home office, immersed in words. I’m deep into revisions for my novel, Christmas in Kellynch, adding new chapters and shaping it for publication.

As part of Novel November, I am hosting “co-working” sessions on Second Life as part of the Coffee & Co-Working Group on Discord. Each week of November the group gathers at a different virtual coffeehouses to enjoy the vibe as we all work on our various projects. It is a grab bag of creatives from code programmers, poets, novelists, and musicians, each person using the group for accountability toward their own art form. It reminds me of the years when I hosted write-ins for Nanowrimo and it is helping me keep focused on my own regency romance book.

Alongside my novel, I’m also writing a new series of Tanka poems. Some explore love and human connection, others dive into science fiction and fantasy themes. I write them all by hand with a fountain pen and paper notebook, but the poetry group I write with is virtual on Second Life. A mix of old and new tech if you would.

It’s been a full month of creation, collaboration, and quiet joy, the kind that reminds me why I write in the first place.

yours in poetry,

Wendy

(This essay first published on the SFWA Poetry Wiki edited by Casey Amir. It is a wiki devoted to writers of science fiction, fantasy, and horror genres.)

Networking can feel scary for many poets, but it is an important way to grow your career. Podcasts and convention panels help you reach new readers, share your ideas, and build a name for yourself. They can also be fun and inspiring experiences that remind you why you write poetry.

When I first started out, I did not appear on panels alone. I joined a writing group that often submitted group readings as panels at conventions. All of my first panels were group readings connected with that writing group. They became my support structure as a beginning poet and prose writer. I appeared on more panels as a full-fledged writer and poet as I published more work and got to know people. It took a long time, but I was determined to be heard. The first time I spoke on a panel as an expert was both terrifying and exciting. But it was a learning experience too. In the end, all the effort was worth it.

In this essay, I will share simple steps to help you network as a poet. You will learn how to define your message, connect with podcast hosts, approach convention programming teams, and build long-lasting relationships. Networking does not have to feel overwhelming. With these tools, you will feel ready to take your next brave step forward.

Know Your Message and Brand

Before you reach out to podcasts or conventions, you need to know what you want to share with the world. This starts with understanding your message and your brand as a poet.

Your brand is what people remember about you and your work. It can be as simple as the themes you write about, the feelings your poems create, or the way you perform your work. Ask yourself: what makes my poetry special? Do I focus on science fiction, fantasy, horror, nature, or love? Knowing this will help you find podcasts and panels that fit your style.

Next, decide what you want to promote. Are you sharing a new poetry book, telling people about your upcoming readings, or introducing your poetic voice to a wider audience? When you know your goal, you can shape your message to match it.

It also helps to prepare a short bio and pitch before you contact people. Your bio should say who you are, what you write, and any important publications or awards you have. Keep it short and clear so podcast hosts or convention teams can see why you would be a good guest or panelist.

For example, one poet I know writes speculative poetry. Her poems include science fiction and fantasy themes like space travel, artificial intelligence, and magic. Because her message was clear, she became a repeat guest on podcasts that focused on science fiction and fantasy writing. Her brand helped her stand out and connect with the right audience.

When your message and brand are clear, it becomes easier for others to say yes to your invitations. They will know what you offer and how it can serve their audience. Clarity is the first key to building a strong network as a poet.

Connect Genuinely with Podcast Hosts

Once you know your message and brand, you can reach out to podcast hosts. Podcasts are a great way to share your poetry with new listeners and talk about your creative journey.

First, you should research podcasts matching your style and topics. If you write speculative poetry, look for shows about science fiction, fantasy, or poetry. Listen to a few episodes to understand their focus and the way they interview guests. This will help you decide if your work is a good fit for their audience.

Next, connect with the hosts on social media. Follow their accounts, like their posts, and leave thoughtful comments. Do not just promote yourself. Support their work and join their community. This builds trust before you ever send a message asking to be a guest.

When you are ready to reach out, send a short and polite email. Start with a quick introduction about who you are and what you write. Then tell them why you think their podcast is a good fit for your work. Be sure to include a link to your poems, website, or press kit so they can learn more about you.

Here is a simple checklist for your email:

• Greeting and your name.

• Why do you enjoy their podcast?

• Who you are and what you write.

• Why you would be an interesting guest.

• A link to your work or website.

• A polite closing thanking them for their time.

Be flexible with scheduling and topics. Podcast hosts often have many guests lined up, so it helps to show that you are easy to work with and open to different dates or discussion angles.

Building genuine connections with podcast hosts takes time, but it is worth it. Each appearance helps more people discover your poetry and brings you closer to your writing goals.

Approach Convention Programming

Conventions are another great place to share your poetry and build your writing career. Many conventions have panels, readings, or workshops where poets can speak. To get on these programs, you need to learn how to approach the people who create the schedule.

First, find conventions that welcome poetry or have panels about writing. If you write speculative poetry, look for science fiction and fantasy conventions that include poetry readings or writing craft panels. Visit their websites and follow their social media accounts to keep up with news about open calls for panel ideas or guests.

When you see a call for programming, read it carefully. Some conventions ask for full panel proposals, while others just want to know what topics you can speak about. Think about what you can offer their attendees. What can they learn from you that will help them become better writers or understand poetry more deeply?

If you submit a panel proposal, keep it focused. Include:

• A strong title that tells people what the panel is about.

• A brief description that explains what attendees will learn.

• Why you are the right person to speak on this topic.

If possible, include the names of other poets or writers you want on the panel with you.

Another way to get involved is to volunteer at the convention or offer to moderate a panel. Moderators keep the conversation going and ensure everyone has time to speak. Volunteering shows you care about the community and can help you build strong connections with organizers and other writers. Being a moderator takes additional work. You need to write questions, show them to the assigned panelists beforehand, and learn to understand the flow of conversation and how to direct it without overstepping your fellow panelists.

Remember, approaching convention programming teams is not just about promoting you. It is about giving back to the writing community and sharing knowledge that will inspire others. When you focus on helping attendees learn and grow, programming teams will see the value you bring to their event.

Build Ongoing Relationships

Networking is not just about getting one podcast interview or one panel spot. It is about building relationships that last for years. These connections can help you grow as a poet and find new opportunities in the future.

Keep in touch with the hosts and other speakers after you appear on a podcast or speak on a panel. Send them a thank you message to show your appreciation. Let people know you enjoyed working with them and that you wish to stay in touch.

You can also support them by sharing their podcasts or future events on your social media. This shows that you care about their work, not just your own promotion. When people see you supporting others, they will be more willing to support you in return.

If you meet other writers or poets on panels, stay connected with them too. Follow them online and engage with their posts. You can even reach out to them later to plan group readings, new panels, or other projects together. Building these friendships can make your writing life richer and more enjoyable.

Networking as a poet might seem hard at first, but it becomes easier when you take small steps to propel you forward. Start by knowing your message and brand so people understand what you offer. Then, connect with podcast hosts authentically. You should approach convention programming teams with clear ideas that help their attendees. Build ongoing relationships by staying in touch and supporting others in the community.

Each podcast interview or panel spot you earn will help you reach new readers and grow your confidence. More importantly, these experiences will remind you why you love to write and share poetry.

seeking afterglow
thin air outside Martian domes
firework rockets

On occasion I participate in Renku poems with other haiku poets. Each round, we submit three haiku to our Sabaki for selection in the poem. This scifaiku was originally a reject from a Renku project. Once it was released back to me, I submitted it to Scifaikuest, a speculative poetry magazine which specializes in micro-poetry. It was published there in February of 2024 in their print issue only. Now that it has been over a year, I feel I can share it with you here.

Anaheim Poetry Review 3

I’m proud to have been the inaugural editor of this annual community poetry anthology during my two years as Poet Laureate of Anaheim. This year’s edition, edited by my successor Camille Hernandez, continues the tradition of bringing our community of poets together in a positive way.

I’m happy to share my poem “Rockets Over Anaheim” is one of the offerings in this new edition — alongside many poets who first found their voices right here in the City of Anaheim.

The anthology is available to read online as a free digital flipbook! https://anaheimpoetry.com/apr-volume-3

NEW RELEASE by Indigoskye Press!!!
Digital Edition only found at https://indigoskye.com

EVERY WORD MATTERS: Poetry Concepts To Enrich Your Prose
a digital edition PDF
an paper by Wendy Van Camp

https://indigoskye.com/index.php/product/every-word-matters/

Unlock Your Creativity with “Every Word Matters: Using Poetry Concepts To Enrich Your Prose” a pdf booklet based on my popular speaker presentation developed during my term as a poet laureate.

Looking for inspiration to enrich your novel’s prose and enliven your writing?

This downloadable PDF ebook gives you [20 pages] packed with poetic techniques you can transfer to your writing toolkit and enhance your writing style.

OC Book Fair
Old Town Tustin, CA
Saturday, November 15th

Poetry Panel and Reading
Second Street Stage
Noon to 2pm

Wendy Van Camp Book Signing
Mystery Ink - Booth #4
2pm to 3pm

Join me, Poet Laureate Emerita Wendy Van Camp, at The OC Book Fair in beautiful Old Town Tustin on Saturday, November 15, 2025! The streets of El Camino Real and Main Street will be closed to traffic and filled with pop-up tents, bookshops, small presses, and local authors.

I’ll be performing on the Second Street Stage from Noon to 2 PM with poets Douglas Manuel, Raundi Moore Kondo, and Jeremiah Cobra. Our moderator is Josh Wood, Director of Creative Writing at the Orange County School of the Arts.

We’ll share our poetry, talk about the creative process, and celebrate the power of words. After the performance, I’ll hold a book signing nearby at the Mystery Ink Booth, #4.

Quasar Online Writers Conference
sponsored by: SFWA
November 15th - 16th

Registration is required to attend. $50 for new guests. Nebula Conference attendees get in for free as part of your Nebula Conference attendance.

To register: https://events/sfwa.org

Wendy Van Camp will moderate a panel at the Science Fiction & Fantasy Writers Association’s (SFWA) debut online conference. It is a conference geared toward professional-level writers of science fiction and fantasy.

“Poetry, Flash, & the Power of Hybrid Storytelling”

Where does “the poetic” begin and end? What differentiates a prose poem from flash fiction? And why are we so hung up on dividing lines in genre in the first place - and not on the power of hybrid storytelling?

With Mary Soon Lee, Brian U. Garrison, Gwynne Garfinkle, and Jennifer Hudak, moderated by Wendy Van Camp.

Our panel is November 16th at noon PST. We hope to see you there.

Continual Podcast
Why We Love a Romance Series

Romance authors Nancy Northcott, Vikki Perry, Libby Tanner, Wendy Van Camp, and Gail Z. Martin/Morgan Brice talk about the allure of romance series.

https://www.facebook.com/watch/?v=1582544322914404

with Poet Laureate Emerita Wendy Van Camp

Are you a writer who struggles with accountability? Do you write short stories or poetry and would love monthly critiques via a professional? Perhaps you need guidance in creating your writing career.

Join Poet Laureate Emerita Wendy Van Camp via her coaching service at Indigoskye Press. I offer single hour coaching via Google Meet or a discounted block of 3 sessions you would use once a month for a longer term project.

Ideas of how to use a writing coach:

• Help to organize a poetry chapbook or short story collection

• Help with indie publishing your novel

• How to onboard as a speaker at conventions and conferences

• Professional critiques of your short stories or novel chapters each month

Please visit my shop via the link at the top of my portfolio website or go there directly: https://indigoskye.com

Portfolio - http://wendyvancamp.com
Amazon - https://www.amazon.com/author/wendyvancamp
Medium - https://medium.com/@wvancamp
Indigoskye Press - https://indigoskye.com
X (Twitter) - https://x.com/wvancamp
Instagram - https://instagram.com/nowastedink
Mastodon - https://me.dm/@wvancamp
Bluesky - https://bsky.app/profile/indigoskye.bsky.social

The Planets: a scifaiku poetry collection - https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07Z8HMPF2

The Curate’s Brother: A Jane Austen Variation of Persuasion - http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00OU1V45A

The Planets Companion: an astropoetry chapbook
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0FNKMXNJD

Eccentric Orbits: An Anthology of Science Fiction Poetry 2021-2024
Volumes 2 - 5
Editor
Available for purchase: https://dimensionfold.com

Anaheim Poetry Review 2022-2023
Volumes 1 - 2
Inaugural Editor
Free to Read: https://anaheimpoetry.com

Eye To The Telescope: Quests #46 - Fall 2022
Guest Editor
Free to Read: https://eyetothetelescope.com/archives/046issue.html

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