tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31198931627125991712024-02-19T18:18:05.954-08:00The World According To RichRickflixhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00851091100831706043noreply@blogger.comBlogger317125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3119893162712599171.post-27711950624566093152022-04-10T08:09:00.002-07:002022-04-10T08:09:58.586-07:00Books...and More Books! <p><span style="font-size: medium;"> <span style="font-family: Arial;">The relaunch of the Alexander Adventures books is only the first step in my new approach to creating and marketing my fictional work.</span></span></p>
<p style="font-family: Arial; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-size: medium;">Inside and out, I’ve redesigned all three <i>Alexander Adventures</i> books to better reflect the style and appeal of similar books in the same genre. Illustrator Sam Rapp has created fantastic new covers and will be contributing to several of my upcoming projects.</span></p>
<p style="font-family: Arial; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 14px;"><br /></p><p style="font-family: Arial; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 14px;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjq5z2DkhS8fFd_Og4PasyHzkZxurXxfkUiWt9x3cawRwrV8eqKGLv203fLIhkffjS4Rs0EXtN-RdjPkUQi2B3WJhk2_dyzsh4FQvI3Bn1Q96icV_4RG7l9MBydIDI4nSpmENcYe55G2WpvsJgmu-Dssma_jdUKZmZaOOItntapLfOy48JePmOZUUfOXQ/s3074/Alexander_Part_One_Front.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3074" data-original-width="1932" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjq5z2DkhS8fFd_Og4PasyHzkZxurXxfkUiWt9x3cawRwrV8eqKGLv203fLIhkffjS4Rs0EXtN-RdjPkUQi2B3WJhk2_dyzsh4FQvI3Bn1Q96icV_4RG7l9MBydIDI4nSpmENcYe55G2WpvsJgmu-Dssma_jdUKZmZaOOItntapLfOy48JePmOZUUfOXQ/w125-h200/Alexander_Part_One_Front.jpg" width="125" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4cILTzY6fEsldErcXBQbQf-4RDykgAsYF8-XF1xZbg-pItKWp4vhm5tTq3n_lmeecYQeF0mjdyg_MAf-OKX4YsRjDKGjMbE-JbHuVFxbcRzUXGll9f9I1PiUTQU0FJhHwUhw1jTlaDepFAZgPCHLdL4phF691T5HIAJQJpKv2wY5f176nnkydnf0a4g/s3074/TWO.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3074" data-original-width="1932" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4cILTzY6fEsldErcXBQbQf-4RDykgAsYF8-XF1xZbg-pItKWp4vhm5tTq3n_lmeecYQeF0mjdyg_MAf-OKX4YsRjDKGjMbE-JbHuVFxbcRzUXGll9f9I1PiUTQU0FJhHwUhw1jTlaDepFAZgPCHLdL4phF691T5HIAJQJpKv2wY5f176nnkydnf0a4g/w126-h200/TWO.jpg" width="126" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgq4Yt5naspawMEN2DQZ4_TK3AZPll4ZHj-tXsdF-6LYHMhTOjyYkyMdXgYEG5pNaEOgN8hj4QytrHqHwSU1BDmHgWJ3KlMCXbpjlZgGpXAA3Mi0n0ELnSgAEUmyDRpX-d29cefbMPCcApI4g5w2BsKKgIbjIgAjpShfXF0DxsORTNQZz-TMefDeBNhmQ/s2304/Alexander_Part_Three_Book_Cover%20copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2304" data-original-width="1441" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgq4Yt5naspawMEN2DQZ4_TK3AZPll4ZHj-tXsdF-6LYHMhTOjyYkyMdXgYEG5pNaEOgN8hj4QytrHqHwSU1BDmHgWJ3KlMCXbpjlZgGpXAA3Mi0n0ELnSgAEUmyDRpX-d29cefbMPCcApI4g5w2BsKKgIbjIgAjpShfXF0DxsORTNQZz-TMefDeBNhmQ/w125-h200/Alexander_Part_Three_Book_Cover%20copy.jpg" width="125" /></a><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div></div><p style="font-family: Arial; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 14px;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></p>
<p style="font-family: Arial; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-size: medium;"></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKRMoa05hReRXffQr4LUxUGJCBoulcQN-Tv3ZBiAgImJuwfbbGze7zOtZIU1MVwioLE--ajbPfoO9UotK-jLIjeCHVsLUfQFfZMmEWORvpBXNtwkSF-_OFrswtDMcLjd9MPkdSsC4V_QXZphJBFokxTSs4WLVq1SYq7O6wNEwclsLKvu_kaDEw4Tekag/s3108/SoupChad_Front.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3108" data-original-width="2072" height="220" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKRMoa05hReRXffQr4LUxUGJCBoulcQN-Tv3ZBiAgImJuwfbbGze7zOtZIU1MVwioLE--ajbPfoO9UotK-jLIjeCHVsLUfQFfZMmEWORvpBXNtwkSF-_OFrswtDMcLjd9MPkdSsC4V_QXZphJBFokxTSs4WLVq1SYq7O6wNEwclsLKvu_kaDEw4Tekag/w146-h220/SoupChad_Front.jpg" width="146" /></a></span></div><span style="font-size: medium;"><br />I’m working on reworking SoupChad, which will include both new content, a new cover, and hilarious illustrations throughout the book.</span><p></p>
<p style="font-family: Arial; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 14px;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></p>
<p style="font-family: Arial; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-size: medium;">SoupChad and Alexander Adventures, by the way, exist in the same world, and if you look carefully, you’ll see that Alexander and his friends appear in SoupChad as well. Everyone’s a student at Wickshire Middle School.</span></p>
<p style="font-family: Arial; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 14px;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></p>
<p style="font-family: Arial; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-size: medium;">And that’s just the beginning! </span></p>
<p style="font-family: Arial; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 14px;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></p>
<p style="font-family: Arial; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-size: medium;">Later this year, I’ll be launching another book series set at Wickshire. Watch for an announcement, coming soon!</span></p><p style="font-family: Arial; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></p><p style="font-family: Arial; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-size: medium;">This new era in my publishing journey also includes some creative new efforts to bring these books into the hands of kids everywhere - more on that later!</span></p>
<p style="font-family: Arial; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 14px;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></p>
<p style="font-family: Arial; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><b>Pro Tip:</b> I’ll soon be releasing some free Wickshire ebooks, too to subscribers of our <a href="https://richperceptions.com/?page_id=1782">mailing list!</a> </span></p><p style="font-family: Arial; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></p><p style="font-family: Arial; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-size: medium;">Check out trailers for all four books at my brand-new website, <a href="http://RichPerceptions.com">RichPerceptions.com</a></span></p>Rickflixhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07499810069468109094noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3119893162712599171.post-64280050869681519652021-10-02T14:43:00.000-07:002021-10-02T14:43:43.759-07:00Making 2022 EPIC!<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgz3gRuSuQ_b5mvnJxFgg-kqafBtVL9_JpKe74BJxo5Qnyb3kqfeNNIt5W-zC_rdo45p-Om7gqWTeEWhvkUCNC0C9tD5NgoCvXcpRQUn6XTmvh5nVCeATAM2vY5q1eoYacmEuihgphugaN9/s2048/IMG_4264.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1539" data-original-width="2048" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgz3gRuSuQ_b5mvnJxFgg-kqafBtVL9_JpKe74BJxo5Qnyb3kqfeNNIt5W-zC_rdo45p-Om7gqWTeEWhvkUCNC0C9tD5NgoCvXcpRQUn6XTmvh5nVCeATAM2vY5q1eoYacmEuihgphugaN9/s320/IMG_4264.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br /><p></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">At the moment, I'm working on three books, each in varying stages of completion—and at least one planned for release in the first half of 2022. After a break of a couple of years, I'm excited to be returning to the routine and taking up the challenge of getting my books (old and new) into the hands of readers.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">In the interim, I've learned a bit about marketing books for my middle grade—young adult readership, and I'm currently devouring a few of the current titles on the subject. The tools available are constantly changing, and I'm determined to "up my game." I like my "back catalog," and I want to make sure they reach the audience I believe they deserve.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;">I'm in the process of working with a talented artist to redeisgn my existing covers to create something more in keeping with the fun, offbeat spirit of the books. As soon as the redesign of the three books in Alexander Adventures are complete, I'll be introducing the books and the artist.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;">My plan at the moment is to have all four of my existing books re-designed and in place by early next year, just in time for the release of my newest book (which I'll be teasing shortly). Along with the redesign, I'll be reworking all of the supporting elements (website, Amazon author page, etc.), to reflect this new approach and marketing initiatives.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">In "My Epic Life," the final volume of Alexander Adventures, Alexander creates a less-embarassing euphenism for puberty: <b>E</b>motional and <b>P</b>hysical <b>I</b>nternal <b>C</b>hanges. No euphenisms in 2022—I'm aiming to make phase of my author journey truly EPIC!</span></p><p><br /></p>Rickflixhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07499810069468109094noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3119893162712599171.post-2291500491336391232021-09-22T20:22:00.001-07:002021-09-22T20:24:28.846-07:00<p><span style="font-size: medium;">I just spent the last hour researching how I could retrieve access to this blog- mission accomplished! Time to straighten things up around here...new books next year!</span></p><p><br /></p>Rickflixhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00851091100831706043noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3119893162712599171.post-9084041885306678452019-01-29T14:21:00.000-08:002019-01-29T14:21:15.632-08:00KID CHEFS LIKE SOUP—AND SOUP BOOKS!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPdclyaNFQqN6Kv4FW5TZBn0HfsO9IeygQpMHyBJgRC4sXjfBHtNZjmeSmY5Sy6I0BRfYSe2hr_y9wMtVf-qfiGxoXgPodQqicMyfeoggd0q2JUOxu9u6Huf63ARuUePmwF6w6sszNrGE/s1600/kid-helping-in-kitchen_4460x4460.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1068" data-original-width="1600" height="133" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPdclyaNFQqN6Kv4FW5TZBn0HfsO9IeygQpMHyBJgRC4sXjfBHtNZjmeSmY5Sy6I0BRfYSe2hr_y9wMtVf-qfiGxoXgPodQqicMyfeoggd0q2JUOxu9u6Huf63ARuUePmwF6w6sszNrGE/s200/kid-helping-in-kitchen_4460x4460.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Last year, I released a comedic novel, <a href="https://www.amazon.com/dp/0989188086/ref=cm_sw_em_r_mt_dp_U_08muCbAB09GBK" target="_blank">SoupChad</a>, the tale of a boy who
loves soup (and won’t tolerate kids who liked salad). It’s a fun little story, meant as an allegory about intolerance and learning to respect others
who might think differently.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
But SoupChad’s love of soup, I’ve discovered, is also part of the
book’s niche appeal. I've received numerous emails from parents and loved ones of young chefs, expressing their child's excitement at discovering this "tasty" little book.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Kid chefs have developed an affection for
this soup-foodie of a thirteen year old.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhv6u1VWxdOZmB6DUWJMJGA_mQn_eIn9steSIdv-ol2ESCJAGXMRau-Ylv9IozgszUkonCYEfX3Cl0t92fgCjubO50oFIQ4tJ95GzoMexbyxy9OG0PbZC2zdkQ1kqYI9mmG_xqmIfkkmDU/s1600/EBOOK.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1000" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhv6u1VWxdOZmB6DUWJMJGA_mQn_eIn9steSIdv-ol2ESCJAGXMRau-Ylv9IozgszUkonCYEfX3Cl0t92fgCjubO50oFIQ4tJ95GzoMexbyxy9OG0PbZC2zdkQ1kqYI9mmG_xqmIfkkmDU/s200/EBOOK.jpg" width="125" /></a>It’s a golden time for kids who cook, with numerous television
programs showing off<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>the fine culinary
skills of boys and girls as they create everything from appetizers to exotic
dessert dishes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Even Chef Gordon Ramsay
is prominent in the game, with his <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Masterchef
Junior</i> series,<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>which just completed its seventh
season. Gone, it seems, are the days when most kids were finicky eaters and
lacked even a hint of culinary bravery.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
SoupChad isn’t a book about cooking—Chad loves soup, but prefers
it canned. As kids his age are prone to do, he's gone all-in on his obsession, even
creating a “Soup Club” to share his soup-centric world view with doubtful
classmates. He annoints club members with club names based on their
favorite soup. He’s soon surrounded with kids named Noodle, Spinach and
Chowder.</div>
<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
<o:DocumentProperties>
<o:Revision>0</o:Revision>
<o:TotalTime>0</o:TotalTime>
<o:Pages>1</o:Pages>
<o:Words>224</o:Words>
<o:Characters>1279</o:Characters>
<o:Company>RLS Ventures</o:Company>
<o:Lines>10</o:Lines>
<o:Paragraphs>2</o:Paragraphs>
<o:CharactersWithSpaces>1501</o:CharactersWithSpaces>
<o:Version>14.0</o:Version>
</o:DocumentProperties>
<o:OfficeDocumentSettings>
<o:AllowPNG/>
</o:OfficeDocumentSettings>
</xml><![endif]-->
<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
<w:WordDocument>
<w:View>Normal</w:View>
<w:Zoom>0</w:Zoom>
<w:TrackMoves/>
<w:TrackFormatting/>
<w:PunctuationKerning/>
<w:ValidateAgainstSchemas/>
<w:SaveIfXMLInvalid>false</w:SaveIfXMLInvalid>
<w:IgnoreMixedContent>false</w:IgnoreMixedContent>
<w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText>false</w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText>
<w:DoNotPromoteQF/>
<w:LidThemeOther>EN-US</w:LidThemeOther>
<w:LidThemeAsian>JA</w:LidThemeAsian>
<w:LidThemeComplexScript>X-NONE</w:LidThemeComplexScript>
<w:Compatibility>
<w:BreakWrappedTables/>
<w:SnapToGridInCell/>
<w:WrapTextWithPunct/>
<w:UseAsianBreakRules/>
<w:DontGrowAutofit/>
<w:SplitPgBreakAndParaMark/>
<w:EnableOpenTypeKerning/>
<w:DontFlipMirrorIndents/>
<w:OverrideTableStyleHps/>
<w:UseFELayout/>
</w:Compatibility>
<m:mathPr>
<m:mathFont m:val="Cambria Math"/>
<m:brkBin m:val="before"/>
<m:brkBinSub m:val="--"/>
<m:smallFrac m:val="off"/>
<m:dispDef/>
<m:lMargin m:val="0"/>
<m:rMargin m:val="0"/>
<m:defJc m:val="centerGroup"/>
<m:wrapIndent m:val="1440"/>
<m:intLim m:val="subSup"/>
<m:naryLim m:val="undOvr"/>
</m:mathPr></w:WordDocument>
</xml><![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
<w:LatentStyles DefLockedState="false" DefUnhideWhenUsed="true"
DefSemiHidden="true" DefQFormat="false" DefPriority="99"
LatentStyleCount="276">
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="0" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Normal"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="heading 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 7"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 8"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 9"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 7"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 8"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 9"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="35" QFormat="true" Name="caption"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="10" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Title"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="1" Name="Default Paragraph Font"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="11" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Subtitle"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="22" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Strong"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="20" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Emphasis"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="59" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Table Grid"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Placeholder Text"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="1" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="No Spacing"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Revision"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="34" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="List Paragraph"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="29" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Quote"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="30" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Intense Quote"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="19" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Subtle Emphasis"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="21" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Intense Emphasis"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="31" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Subtle Reference"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="32" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Intense Reference"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="33" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Book Title"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="37" Name="Bibliography"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" QFormat="true" Name="TOC Heading"/>
</w:LatentStyles>
</xml><![endif]-->
<!--[if gte mso 10]>
<style>
/* Style Definitions */
table.MsoNormalTable
{mso-style-name:"Table Normal";
mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0;
mso-tstyle-colband-size:0;
mso-style-noshow:yes;
mso-style-priority:99;
mso-style-parent:"";
mso-padding-alt:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;
mso-para-margin:0in;
mso-para-margin-bottom:.0001pt;
mso-pagination:widow-orphan;
font-size:12.0pt;
font-family:Cambria;
mso-ascii-font-family:Cambria;
mso-ascii-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-hansi-font-family:Cambria;
mso-hansi-theme-font:minor-latin;}
</style>
<![endif]-->
<!--StartFragment-->
<!--EndFragment--><br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
Kid chefs, I’m happy to say, recognize SoupChad as one of
their own, while also sympathizing with the salad-loving classmates he faces in
a climactic showdown. In the end, Chad learns that while he can still love soup, there's other food to love, too! <o:p></o:p></div>
Rickflixhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00851091100831706043noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3119893162712599171.post-68062680789685348282018-12-05T16:36:00.000-08:002018-12-05T16:36:11.787-08:00GigEconomy Challenges: Priming the PumpSurviving in the Gig Economy means constantly priming the pump. <div>
<br /></div>
<div>
My profile on <a href="https://www.upwork.com/fl/richsamuels" target="_blank">Upwork</a> is always a work in progress as time and new skills develop. I learn new strategies from reviewing profiles of other freelancers. I'm constantly looking for ways to better target the professional/entrepreneurial clients I seek. I read and re-read my profile. Am I pontificating too much? Am I presenting too much information? Present too much of your qualifications </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
My "cover letters" on Upwork are always changing, too. They're certainly customized for individual clients, but I also look at better focusing these letters on the specific talents that I offer, and presenting my qualifications not as proof of my abilities, but as an indication of the services I can provide to the client. Again, I'm always looking for better ways to show that I offer quality,<i> client centered</i> services.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Over at <a href="https://www.fiverr.com/rickflix" target="_blank">Fiverr</a>, where freelancers offer specific gigs, as opposed to seeking out clients who need services, I'lm constantly searching for concepts that would improve the visibility of my gigs. That means finding the right SEO: the keywords and descriptions that help people find my services when searching across the web. I've also discovered that visibility on Fiverr is directly impacted by how often I edit my gigs. Editing the description or other details seems to push my gigs upward and improve my visibility. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<a href="https://www.fiverr.com/s2/ba92a781ce" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;" target="_blank"><img border="0" data-original-height="1068" data-original-width="1600" height="133" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJsAE4kWU3ktZ9hsvwDVbsFyM55EWoJwK7hIx_Oyf0Dg1fJRza_QzYD45rZVUyKNo4NvFS195udHQSYmpiNFDzWyN7EHivFCVgzVIRyvkAyXV6gJsfVk3leDXSeBKIfLH59XJ22gRBGnE/s200/baked-blur-christmas-688010.jpg" width="200" /></a>I also look at gig concepts that are "out of the box." Currently, I'm offering <a href="https://www.fiverr.com/s2/ba92a781ce" target="_blank">this gig</a> on Fiverr: <i>This holiday season, surprise your children with a holiday tale all their own: a short story featuring some traditional elements, and customized touches that make it truly theirs. </i>I'm offering to write a 1,500 word story that incorporates the client's children as characters in a holiday tale with one of several familiar elements (a poor orphan, a Scrooge-like figure unmoved by the holidays, for example). The idea, I hope, has some appeal. I imagine the story as a read-aloud treat sometime after gift-giving; I'll write the stories with that in mind. I'd enjoy creating the tale, and the buyer will have something unique and memorable to add to their holiday season.<br /><br />My question now: Will people find the gig? I tried titling the gig, "I'll Write a Customized Holiday Story," but decided to switch it to "Christmas Story" as a more likely search term. I'll update the experiment here, and let you know if I receive one order, several orders, or no orders at all. It's worth the experiment, even if it turns out to be a learning experience.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<i><span style="font-size: x-small;">To learn about my latest adventures in the Gig Economy, follow me on Twitter <a href="https://twitter.com/rickflix" target="_blank">@rickflix</a></span></i></div>
Rickflixhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00851091100831706043noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3119893162712599171.post-5298370656242516482018-10-29T16:23:00.001-07:002018-10-29T16:23:39.286-07:00Welcome to the World of Chat Stories!<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpPDY08LRvaS-wzjWZcZW4XP7NVryuo3rfoFor_WpNxEs9gXNHt0CNSZcsnaWoXD3-qgRwifoaWiFpt5lNIhpDUXGO_1H3pwID-zRqCffKOXl0Vukkw95e_TT-4QrBNq0yhjFMy7U7AE8/s1600/IMG_1597.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="900" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpPDY08LRvaS-wzjWZcZW4XP7NVryuo3rfoFor_WpNxEs9gXNHt0CNSZcsnaWoXD3-qgRwifoaWiFpt5lNIhpDUXGO_1H3pwID-zRqCffKOXl0Vukkw95e_TT-4QrBNq0yhjFMy7U7AE8/s320/IMG_1597.PNG" width="179" /></a>Some of the most interesting and unexpected gigs I've landed on <a href="https://www.upwork.com/fl/richsamuels" target="_blank">Upwork</a> have been related to creating <i>chat stories</i> (or <i>text stories</i>). If you're not familiar with this trending form of creative expression, chat stories relate tales entirely in the form of text messages. As you tap the screen dialogues appear line-by-line, as if you're eavesdropping on an actual conversation. There's little or no prose (other than time breaks, like "ten minutes later").<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTBp4S_KIv-tmRla3cnFn3aeEbstrln82HDla3w-oXug0aF_2Here8-RIi2Ww3hD2qoD_O70nzFZDGCNtzXwtHPjPNjH4EwoHHFBMW2cfzuRKg2pmZCdcsn8YROHnlUTnOSY41-L34opw/s1600/IMG_1598.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="900" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTBp4S_KIv-tmRla3cnFn3aeEbstrln82HDla3w-oXug0aF_2Here8-RIi2Ww3hD2qoD_O70nzFZDGCNtzXwtHPjPNjH4EwoHHFBMW2cfzuRKg2pmZCdcsn8YROHnlUTnOSY41-L34opw/s320/IMG_1598.PNG" width="179" /></a><a href="http://texties.lol/" target="_blank">Texties</a>, which recently launched for the iPhone (and coming soon for Android - click on the link for a beta version) has been one of my most regular Upwork customers. I've written fifteen separate stories for the platform, ranging from the 3 part, 30,000 word epic "Revolution" series, which follows a group of teens as they try to defeat an evil dictator in a dystopian world, to the comedy, "Invasion of the Meklaks," in which fans on the set of their favorite science fiction TV program suspect that their favorite show may actually be more than makeup and special effects. I've written in genres ranging from comedy to science fiction, horror and even some drama.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://texties.lol/" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img border="0" data-original-height="280" data-original-width="217" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPTmprA6um04mRfqrkp00WoS6UiCijH5PGy-vXRF5JpsnGXZ43ZwKAh2rRa6uSg1JbHmxI-S8YA_pdRYpCZRwjPxC2RQ8YhqhnDwHR2fTKtjl2UW_UqyX7DLR33Q7XU_qqhraOAFAHjTM/s200/Screen+Shot+2018-10-29+at+3.27.52+PM.png" width="155" /></a>Chat stories are a fun challenge. The settings and all the action have to be related entirely through dialogue. Additionally, stories need to unfold in such a way that it makes sense for characters to communicate through texting (as opposed to a verbal conversation). Building and creating tension is tricky—action is even trickier. When it works, though, it has a sense of immediacy that's all it's own.<br />
<span style="text-align: center;"><br /></span>
<span style="text-align: center;">Let me know what you think!</span><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />Rickflixhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00851091100831706043noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3119893162712599171.post-47844402517650677322018-09-26T16:06:00.000-07:002018-10-06T13:24:16.453-07:00Global Freelancing on Upwork: One Year Later<div class="MsoNormal">
This month, I’m celebrating one year of building my presence as a global freelancer. Using established sites, I’ve worked to expand my client list from a narrow local base to a broad worldwide clientele. Where locally, I provided only media-related production and editing, my global freelancing career has allowed me to offer a wide range of writing services. In this twelfth month of global freelancing, I’ve achieved my goal: remote clients account for nearly 100% of my income—and I’m convinced that’s just the tip of the iceberg<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbGc-YMvc-JQIXAa1flh_QYR1Q9e3w7XjVJFFO0sEbk06vImid5TQIyyeeXGvxYSOU_7ibj0KDICR9XFeXMUmX1m1NnesFTbVTg3aiDyq8ONTSoeEYzN1DLHFeRFDu1AdUTse8FKCSz1A/s1600/upwork+logo.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="119" data-original-width="425" height="55" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbGc-YMvc-JQIXAa1flh_QYR1Q9e3w7XjVJFFO0sEbk06vImid5TQIyyeeXGvxYSOU_7ibj0KDICR9XFeXMUmX1m1NnesFTbVTg3aiDyq8ONTSoeEYzN1DLHFeRFDu1AdUTse8FKCSz1A/s200/upwork+logo.png" width="200" /></a>After trying several alternatives, my platform of choice is Upwork.com, where businesses and individuals post their needs, and Upwork-screened freelancers (like myself) respond with a cover letter and relevant work examples to win the assignment. I have had the opportunity to work with a wider range of professionals and entrepreneurs than I would have otherwise. I have the opportunity to put <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">all</i> of my talents to work, instead of a select few.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
My <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">writing</b> assignments have included professional biographies, recommendation letters, resignation letters, product descriptions, nonprofit mission statements, corporate website content, <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">dozens</i> of short stories and “chat stories,” numerous proposals and pitches for documentary video content, and production-ready scripts for educational and corporate videos. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I also provide <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">video editing</b> services, including corporate videos, YouTube content, training videos and premium quality celebratory videos (a photo and video montage marking a birthday or memorial, for example).<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Corporate clients have included a wide range of spirited entrepreneurs, from those designing small tech start-ups to the founder/CEO of a vast corporation providing energy infrastructure. Individuals have also hired me for a range of tasks—one man in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia asked me to write a science fiction story for his son’s sixteenth birthday. I’ve worked for numerous online learning corporations, conceptualizing, writing, and in one case presenting content (offering my experience as a self-published author). Upwork gold is a repeat client—and I have had quite a few as both a writer and editor.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p> <table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjk5EaruijhpZ3cJ60FqDw1VGP_2eauDeqcPUtcL4JiQ71oll2MYnzZ3AP0qNpM6hCgPl_gRy3qH2U4gdYCaHvfD6MvF9JTXRHK7mtiOCbGxkM6Ysk3RMwCR6SQsObLCHyKSyKS2jLcBec/s1600/workshop+still.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="112" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjk5EaruijhpZ3cJ60FqDw1VGP_2eauDeqcPUtcL4JiQ71oll2MYnzZ3AP0qNpM6hCgPl_gRy3qH2U4gdYCaHvfD6MvF9JTXRHK7mtiOCbGxkM6Ysk3RMwCR6SQsObLCHyKSyKS2jLcBec/s200/workshop+still.jpeg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">One of my Upwork gigs involved teaching<br />an online writing course.</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Reaching this point has taken a great deal of hard work—requiring a commitment to adopting global freelancing as my profession. What started out as a side experiment only became truly viable when it became a full-time effort (I still work with local clients, though selectively).<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
In my case, another key piece of the puzzle was my decision to seek out training to use Upwork effectively. My thanks to <a href="https://barefootconsultants.com/claudia-holcombe/" target="_blank"><span style="color: yellow;">Claudia Holcombe</span></a> and the Barefoot Consultants program for providing excellent guidance on designing my Upwork profile, seeking and winning the best jobs, and other intricacies of becoming a successful global freelancer. If you’re serious about making this financially viable, training will get you up to speed right away.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Global freelancing (I’ve served clients in Kiev, Moscow, Saudi Arabia, Panama, Mexico, Canada, Australia and across the United States) isn’t simply a new direction in my career—it’s an entirely new dimension—and only increasing in potential. I can't say whether it's the future of employment - but it's <i>my</i> future.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
<o:DocumentProperties>
<o:Revision>0</o:Revision>
<o:TotalTime>0</o:TotalTime>
<o:Pages>1</o:Pages>
<o:Words>496</o:Words>
<o:Characters>2830</o:Characters>
<o:Company>RLS Ventures</o:Company>
<o:Lines>23</o:Lines>
<o:Paragraphs>6</o:Paragraphs>
<o:CharactersWithSpaces>3320</o:CharactersWithSpaces>
<o:Version>14.0</o:Version>
</o:DocumentProperties>
<o:OfficeDocumentSettings>
<o:AllowPNG/>
</o:OfficeDocumentSettings>
</xml><![endif]--> <!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
<w:WordDocument>
<w:View>Normal</w:View>
<w:Zoom>0</w:Zoom>
<w:TrackMoves/>
<w:TrackFormatting/>
<w:PunctuationKerning/>
<w:ValidateAgainstSchemas/>
<w:SaveIfXMLInvalid>false</w:SaveIfXMLInvalid>
<w:IgnoreMixedContent>false</w:IgnoreMixedContent>
<w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText>false</w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText>
<w:DoNotPromoteQF/>
<w:LidThemeOther>EN-US</w:LidThemeOther>
<w:LidThemeAsian>JA</w:LidThemeAsian>
<w:LidThemeComplexScript>X-NONE</w:LidThemeComplexScript>
<w:Compatibility>
<w:BreakWrappedTables/>
<w:SnapToGridInCell/>
<w:WrapTextWithPunct/>
<w:UseAsianBreakRules/>
<w:DontGrowAutofit/>
<w:SplitPgBreakAndParaMark/>
<w:EnableOpenTypeKerning/>
<w:DontFlipMirrorIndents/>
<w:OverrideTableStyleHps/>
<w:UseFELayout/>
</w:Compatibility>
<m:mathPr>
<m:mathFont m:val="Cambria Math"/>
<m:brkBin m:val="before"/>
<m:brkBinSub m:val="--"/>
<m:smallFrac m:val="off"/>
<m:dispDef/>
<m:lMargin m:val="0"/>
<m:rMargin m:val="0"/>
<m:defJc m:val="centerGroup"/>
<m:wrapIndent m:val="1440"/>
<m:intLim m:val="subSup"/>
<m:naryLim m:val="undOvr"/>
</m:mathPr></w:WordDocument>
</xml><![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
<w:LatentStyles DefLockedState="false" DefUnhideWhenUsed="true"
DefSemiHidden="true" DefQFormat="false" DefPriority="99"
LatentStyleCount="276">
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="0" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Normal"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="heading 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 7"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 8"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 9"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 7"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 8"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 9"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="35" QFormat="true" Name="caption"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="10" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Title"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="1" Name="Default Paragraph Font"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="11" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Subtitle"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="22" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Strong"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="20" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Emphasis"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="59" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Table Grid"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Placeholder Text"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="1" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="No Spacing"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Revision"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="34" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="List Paragraph"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="29" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Quote"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="30" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Intense Quote"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="19" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Subtle Emphasis"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="21" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Intense Emphasis"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="31" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Subtle Reference"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="32" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Intense Reference"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="33" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Book Title"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="37" Name="Bibliography"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" QFormat="true" Name="TOC Heading"/>
</w:LatentStyles>
</xml><![endif]--> <style> <!-- /* Font Definitions */ @font-face {font-family:"MS 明朝"; mso-font-charset:78; mso-generic-font-family:auto; mso-font-pitch:variable; mso-font-signature:-536870145 1791491579 18 0 131231 0;} @font-face {font-family:"MS 明朝"; mso-font-charset:78; mso-generic-font-family:auto; mso-font-pitch:variable; mso-font-signature:-536870145 1791491579 18 0 131231 0;} /* Style Definitions */ p.MsoNormal, li.MsoNormal, div.MsoNormal {mso-style-unhide:no; mso-style-qformat:yes; mso-style-parent:""; margin:0in; margin-bottom:.0001pt; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:12.0pt; font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family:"MS 明朝"; mso-fareast-theme-font:minor-fareast;} a:link, span.MsoHyperlink {mso-style-priority:99; color:blue; mso-themecolor:hyperlink; text-decoration:underline; text-underline:single;} a:visited, span.MsoHyperlinkFollowed {mso-style-noshow:yes; mso-style-priority:99; color:purple; mso-themecolor:followedhyperlink; text-decoration:underline; text-underline:single;} .MsoChpDefault {mso-style-type:export-only; mso-default-props:yes; font-size:10.0pt; mso-ansi-font-size:10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size:10.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family:"MS 明朝"; mso-fareast-theme-font:minor-fareast; mso-fareast-language:JA;} @page WordSection1 {size:8.5in 11.0in; margin:1.0in 1.25in 1.0in 1.25in; mso-header-margin:.5in; mso-footer-margin:.5in; mso-paper-source:0;} div.WordSection1 {page:WordSection1;} --> </style> <!--[if gte mso 10]>
<style>
/* Style Definitions */
table.MsoNormalTable
{mso-style-name:"Table Normal";
mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0;
mso-tstyle-colband-size:0;
mso-style-noshow:yes;
mso-style-priority:99;
mso-style-parent:"";
mso-padding-alt:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;
mso-para-margin:0in;
mso-para-margin-bottom:.0001pt;
mso-pagination:widow-orphan;
font-size:10.0pt;
font-family:"Times New Roman";
mso-fareast-language:JA;}
</style>
<![endif]--> <!--StartFragment--> <!--EndFragment--><br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i><b>You can check out my Upwork profile a</b></i><span style="color: yellow;">t <a href="https://www.upwork.com/fl/richsamuels"><span style="color: yellow;">https://www.upwork.com/fl/richsamuels</span></a> </span><i><b>(scroll down to the bottom for an indication of why I love my clients!) - and follow me @rickflix for more updates.</b></i><o:p></o:p></div>
Rickflixhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00851091100831706043noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3119893162712599171.post-75613079942700358722018-06-21T09:02:00.000-07:002018-06-21T09:02:20.379-07:00Writing for a Living: A Career Trajectory That Just Seems RightHere's an update on my efforts to grow in the "Gig Economy."<br />
<br />
My online writing services have touched on so many areas and served a wide range of clients in the past few months, It keeps the process interesting and continues to expand my network (and my horizons!)<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuvlC0nlssqrRlHh7unnSjE9hErIliLqvyonCCP0qFMA43jCuV77j5CRJgm-DxKW6j4vnh7O3H-maygdBQQazHotMerNlitLXjp0NWvYbz2ljbUle7JOHSgqJrt3rTBQeMtY9C3lTEaK8/s1600/FullSizeRender+52.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1110" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuvlC0nlssqrRlHh7unnSjE9hErIliLqvyonCCP0qFMA43jCuV77j5CRJgm-DxKW6j4vnh7O3H-maygdBQQazHotMerNlitLXjp0NWvYbz2ljbUle7JOHSgqJrt3rTBQeMtY9C3lTEaK8/s200/FullSizeRender+52.jpg" width="138" /></a></div>
<br />
I've been writing:<br />
<br />
1 - "chat stories" for various <b>smartphone apps</b>.<br />
2 - A vision statement for a <b>non-profit organization</b> creating an anti-bullying workshop.<br />
3 - An "executive summary" tracing a <b>corporation's</b> service to a troublesome client<br />
4 - A <b>curriculum</b> for a video production workshop for teens<br />
5 - A <b>logline and synopsis</b> for a short documentary<br />
6 - <b>Narration </b>for another short documentary.<br />
7 - A short story "legend" for a cartoon character serving as a trademark for a <b>clothing company [check out <a href="https://www.upwork.com/hiring/marketing/6-best-practices-for-brand-storytelling-that-sells/?utm_content=buffer4c2fc&utm_medium=social&utm_source=linkedin&utm_campaign=buffer">this article from Upwork</a> about Brand Storytelling]</b><br />
8 - A job seeker's introductory email to a prospective employer.<br />
9 - Several short biographies for <b>corporate websites</b><br />
10 - Several serialized short stories: a thriller, a murder mystery, action/adventure, science fiction...the list goes on.<br />
<br />
Until I jumped into remote freelancing, I hadn't offered writing services as part of my freelance toolbox. Now, they're a major part of my activity (and a growing part of my income. To use the vernacular, writing is my "super power."<br />
<br />
Several of these jobs have generated return business—in many ways, <i>that's</i> the key to making this process work. New clients + Return Clients = Positive Cash Flow. Simple equation, but true. One client has hired me for <i>eleven</i> unique, well paying jobs.<br />
<br />
At this point, ten months in, I'm still learning best practices to continue my growth. The process is slower than I would hope, but steady and building. Working online may be convenient, but don't believe the hype: it's still hard work.<br />
<br />
<i><b>(If I can be of service, contact me via my <a href="https://www.fiverr.com/rickflix">Fiverr Account</a>)</b></i><br />
<br />
<br />Rickflixhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00851091100831706043noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3119893162712599171.post-27316912470459280882018-03-28T09:30:00.000-07:002018-03-28T09:30:14.490-07:00I'm finding It: Upping My Game in the Gig EconomySix months in, my experience with Global Freelancing is going well. I've made considerable progress, and I'm confident that I can continue to increase my online business.<br />
<br />
<b><i>The milestones:</i></b><br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhb_PciIitsZBZL_7F-uz1PQgjEhdhKrW_9_XUOprgegWFVyb2L4UOBv6bp6RIOIIICslOFWBEw7GCAxqOeBMosuvjFXqQX6_lTm79_duQtwkeLDYBdyaQhxHc_rUetkb1ieofFnccQWRg/s1600/toprated-sticker.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="178" data-original-width="977" height="36" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhb_PciIitsZBZL_7F-uz1PQgjEhdhKrW_9_XUOprgegWFVyb2L4UOBv6bp6RIOIIICslOFWBEw7GCAxqOeBMosuvjFXqQX6_lTm79_duQtwkeLDYBdyaQhxHc_rUetkb1ieofFnccQWRg/s200/toprated-sticker.png" width="200" /></a></div>
<ul>
<li>I've reached the "Top Rated" level on Upwork, which means that my ratings from clients are above 90% (in fact, they're at 100%), and I've met criteria ranging from total earnings and responsiveness to consistent availability. </li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>I've reached "Level One" status on Fiverr, which also means I've reached a level of success similar to Upwork. There are two further levels to achieve.</li>
</ul>
<div>
<div style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;">
<a href="https://www.upwork.com/fl/richsamuels" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;" target="_blank"><img border="0" data-original-height="119" data-original-width="425" height="55" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSBP7naHjQdIRw9jBwdaI8xJ-WZUAA2Vq01bt4O-RAZ70jKni78AC6JjvHN1XkC7UD0owdZc4No3q_TsSDmiu3BSXvo-itEKz4cchTESpSTHAwiSG27KC0nlq5spbThueKCybPjLEUOK8/s200/upwork+logo.png" width="200" /></a><span id="goog_1609048522"></span><a href="https://www.blogger.com/"></a><span id="goog_1609048523"></span>In both cases, leveling up means higher visibility and access to a higher level of customer service. Personnel at Upwork will also email leads to jobs that may be particularly appropriate for my talents and experience.</div>
</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
The jobs have been diverse and challenging. They've included chat-stories, short stories, professional biographies, videos edited for social media, a storybook for elementary school-age children, and professional letters for a variety of purposes.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<i><b>Building From Here</b></i></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
As I work to improve my online presence on both platforms, I'm taking a series of steps:</div>
<div>
<ul>
<li>I've taken a one-on-one course on optimizing my efforts on Upwork, including improving my profile, writing more effective job proposals, and developing workable strategies for building and maintaining a client base on the site. I also learned search strategies on the site, to find more jobs that fit my expertise. (I'll be writing about the course in a future blog).</li>
<li>I'm experimenting with my gigs on Fiverr, and seeking out more effective ways of improving my visibility on the site.</li>
<li>I attended a local Fiverr event, which has allowed me to interact with like-minded Fiverr uses so I can learn from those who better understand how to optimize the site to attract more work (it requires a different strategy than Upwork). I'll be joining a local Los Angeles user's group (and one for Upwork, if I should find one).</li>
</ul>
<div>
<a href="https://www.fiverr.com/rickflix" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;" target="_blank"><img border="0" data-original-height="199" data-original-width="253" height="157" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBHpQrBJjKEFH4DiDW9UkWFBAIE1HudhwaEGjuchNG8m0l_6HdoaE4rmcmNZtv7j_zfVQY3o9rgC0Pjd9A6TshUP2zZ3gN9Nozx58zZImLG5fuyXHAMw3Ud-CNsQEFs7wbqMndusoOb3o/s200/download.png" width="200" /></a>Last week, I was interviewed as part of a university study exploring the rapidly expanding "gig economy." Though the idea (and these platforms) have been around for a while, it seems that near the leading edge of a profound shift in the character of employment.</div>
</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
My immediate goals are to learn better optimization on Fiverr, expand into blog and article writing on Upwork, and in general find better ways of promoting my services on both sites. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
I've come a long way, but I still have a long way to go toward making this a full-time operation...but I think I'm on my way. The progress I've made so far has exceeded my expectations. I'm optimistic about the possibilities for the future.<br />
<br />
I've always believed that whatever might be your talent, there's an audience somewhere in the world for what you do—if only you could find it.<br />
<br />
I'm finding it.<br />
<br />
<i><span style="font-size: x-small;">Check out my Upwork Profile <a href="https://www.upwork.com/fl/richsamuels" target="_blank">here</a>, and my Fiverr Profile and gigs <a href="https://www.fiverr.com/rickflix" target="_blank">here</a>. If you need writing or remote video editing services, check me out (if you tell me you came from my blog, make sure to let me know).</span></i></div>
Rickflixhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00851091100831706043noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3119893162712599171.post-88612385163961552542018-03-13T13:35:00.002-07:002018-03-13T14:59:22.468-07:00SoupChad is on the Menu: Book Marketing <a href="http://etsy.me/2DnUqPD" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img border="0" data-original-height="1260" data-original-width="1154" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQ66z77YCkRgY5lp2jdCd6sKPm8SvTn0ZpIcmQ9e1ja2-vXaB-UQcEXM9d-UHQSzPjO-6xqAFW6NTweRFI995mM4q-IbjipU9nsljxh09y019NxBn6dDaHxFrSUxq1_f4l_s7fm-q2Ge0/s320/SOUPCHAD+TOLERANCE+MULTIPLE.jpg" width="293" /></a>"SoupChad" is my novel about a boy who loves soup—and will not tolerate kids who like salad. I love the fact that the book is fun and offbeat, but through all the absurdity has something to say, too.<br />
<br />
<div>
In the last couple of months, I've been test-marketing the book in several venues and websites. I was at the Santa Clarita Local Authors Celebration, and then at a fundraiser at Barnes and Noble bookstore for a local elementary school.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
The Santa Clarita event was great fun, with my nephew (portraying SoupChad on the book cover) and his friend helped me promote the book, soup spoons in hand and wearing brand-new SoupChad t-shirts. The book did fairly well, but there weren't too many kids in attendance.<br />
<br />
The Barnes and Noble event was a special success. I had the opportunity to talk to numerous kids about the book, give out "SoupClub" cards (favorite soup of the day: chicken noodle), and sold a healthy number of copies. It was a great day!</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkGafKy3rf97g2KNFGXi_o9CNw8EFzpG51NNYw41DvzpnZN6uStK-6hQOUH9YHqVBeJHyMPMbdv1EUZq_knAy_W1bUWy3nggeVn-sdY5lzuMzuHO-1XcJ1_HVwGfMb-Wi-JTkiSb3G1FE/s1600/IMG_0764.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1114" data-original-width="1600" height="138" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkGafKy3rf97g2KNFGXi_o9CNw8EFzpG51NNYw41DvzpnZN6uStK-6hQOUH9YHqVBeJHyMPMbdv1EUZq_knAy_W1bUWy3nggeVn-sdY5lzuMzuHO-1XcJ1_HVwGfMb-Wi-JTkiSb3G1FE/s200/IMG_0764.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Here I am at Barnes and Noble, introducing<br />my book to elementary school kids. </span></i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Reviews are slowly beginning to appear. Here's one from the winner of a drawing I had over at Goodreads that hit the nail right on the head: <i>The book relates to our times in that you're either with us or against us. Teaching children to be tolerant of others opinions or likes or dislikes is achieved by either being a salad or soup person. I entered the draw in hopes of winning the book for my granddaughters. I believe they will learn a life lesson when they read this book.</i><br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijzjlLzjpmyEuwjNm8V0yFlFIWUCazOb3vCd1nhydM2gs0TvTUY_ROuifgD13gt6j90vN0bLX9mmEZnLHxdyB4m5AGTkTmhaK_wml9AaODG_2anbjtXsARKYJpIVY864bBRyxaAbkaprM/s1600/IMG_0717.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijzjlLzjpmyEuwjNm8V0yFlFIWUCazOb3vCd1nhydM2gs0TvTUY_ROuifgD13gt6j90vN0bLX9mmEZnLHxdyB4m5AGTkTmhaK_wml9AaODG_2anbjtXsARKYJpIVY864bBRyxaAbkaprM/s200/IMG_0717.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: xx-small;">My nephew Josh (right) and his friend Nick helped<br />me at the Santa Clarita Local Authors Celebration</span></i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<i></i><br />
<i></i></div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
Building on previous success, I've decided to more directly promote the tolerance aspect of the book, at least to parents and teachers.<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVBC1AQk7v7CyuBdwppI85aUbM1DjigSIBOFV4Y_TsXeGWiEfuI_ivct8ax86VEwNUB-2NLVee93w3tij-8RS86LHmirJ6smwK0UPzRPgpcFOYoM3Y6BLaBtzIeqBHyvGHEeJuv9hxzcE/s1600/IMG_0799.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVBC1AQk7v7CyuBdwppI85aUbM1DjigSIBOFV4Y_TsXeGWiEfuI_ivct8ax86VEwNUB-2NLVee93w3tij-8RS86LHmirJ6smwK0UPzRPgpcFOYoM3Y6BLaBtzIeqBHyvGHEeJuv9hxzcE/s200/IMG_0799.JPG" width="150" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Every kid who visits the SoupChad booth<br />gets an "official" Soup Club card, complete<br />with a club name based on their favorite soup.</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
My new listing on Etsy.com offers a "Class Pack," including multiple copies of the book, a book poster, and Soup Club cards. I'm hoping that my humorous and non-political approach one of the growing issues in our society today can interest both traditional and home schools. Take a look <a href="http://etsy.me/2DnUqPD" target="_blank">at the listing</a> and tell me what you think - or better yet, pass it on to anyone who might be interested!<br />
<br />
<i>By the way, I'm looking for press of all types and reach - just forward this blog or contact me at <a href="mailto:rich@rlsventures.com">rich@rlsventures.com</a></i></div>
Rickflixhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00851091100831706043noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3119893162712599171.post-57112315448374963922018-01-18T08:31:00.000-08:002018-01-18T13:16:49.126-08:00Gig Economy, Global Freelancing...it just WORKSA funny thing happened with my "test dive" into the so-called "gig economy."<br />
<br />
It's becoming a fantastic success.<br />
<br />
The first few months were spotty, as I began to establish myself on two of the better-known sites serving "global freelancing." I got small jobs on a fairly regular basis, but the volume of work didn't grow for a while.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
Then, the whole thing changed.<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFqHSzc8WpB4kWFsVXuUMos8RCoW_ukq4PiIonio9UkLq8D7vwT8e88josxo1tjeZhbv39jrZxUEo9DYDWKq8WdZTJLouzC66NfvF_POSJrwHBHCPxV1ApQ-rctMOqYmvYXpPOQSmsUOw/s1600/saudi2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="691" data-original-width="1041" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFqHSzc8WpB4kWFsVXuUMos8RCoW_ukq4PiIonio9UkLq8D7vwT8e88josxo1tjeZhbv39jrZxUEo9DYDWKq8WdZTJLouzC66NfvF_POSJrwHBHCPxV1ApQ-rctMOqYmvYXpPOQSmsUOw/s320/saudi2.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Another reason I like Global Freelancing: Positive Feedback!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
At the end of the year, I began to accumulate a series of jobs on Upwork.com that not only were interesting and well-paying, but will result in a dramatic increase in income for the month of January. Already, my income in this month alone exceeds the first 3.5 months I've been on the site, put together. As I've developed a track record on the site, and learned how to improve my proposals for available jobs, opportunities have been multiplying.<br />
<br />
Better yet, all of the work is writing related. Here are a few of my recent projects:<br />
<br />
<ul>
<li>I've been creating chat stories for a variety of clients and websites. Several specialized apps now offer stories told entirely in the form of chat messages (in other words, dialogue). Developers are doing what they can to make sure they have quality stories to offer their young adult audience. Though some are user-created, many are created by hired writers like myself.</li>
<li>I've created proposals and treatments for documentary filmmakers across the country.</li>
<li>I've written short stories for a number of clients—some as part of a larger project (for example, an anecdote to illustrate a point), or for reasons unknown. </li>
<li>I'm conducting and recording writing seminars. </li>
</ul>
<div>
I hadn't the slightest idea when I started this experiment that writing short fiction for hire would be part of the game. I had hopes that some of my online work would be writing-related; as the moment, it's 100%.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
The challenge now? Keep up and increase the momentum. I'll share some concrete steps I'm taking to make this experiment in <i>global freelancing</i> (a better term, I think) a full-time venture.</div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />Rickflixhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00851091100831706043noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3119893162712599171.post-8886901893618821802017-12-21T10:00:00.000-08:002017-12-21T10:00:37.308-08:00SoupChad Simmers: Early Marketing<div class="p1">
I made SoupChad available for sale on Amazon on December 7, 2017, but I'm considering these next few weeks a "soft launch" before a more extensive push after the first of the year.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> After all, I don't want large numbers of readers checking out SoupChad on Amazon...with no reviews!</span></div>
<div class="p2">
<br /></div>
<div class="p1">
Here's what I'm working on at the moment:</div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgriR4-ixqFpR2XtVXVfO7AfSbQSAtpVF5G6X9zzG2J9aUyTDX6DH-Fb0yOSC_KHn21GGnqiE8wP8stANFrfgOUCwwFA32uwGIi_u8Yz8QQXIcxUcnHJYhZip1ivQqZgSos9pOS3V56TKo/s1600/IMG_0426.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="720" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgriR4-ixqFpR2XtVXVfO7AfSbQSAtpVF5G6X9zzG2J9aUyTDX6DH-Fb0yOSC_KHn21GGnqiE8wP8stANFrfgOUCwwFA32uwGIi_u8Yz8QQXIcxUcnHJYhZip1ivQqZgSos9pOS3V56TKo/s200/IMG_0426.JPG" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: xx-small;">A Box of SoupChad, ready for 2018!</span></i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="p2">
<br /></div>
<div class="p1">
1 - <b>Reviews!</b> It's so very important to build up as many reviews as possible before I start sending potential readers to Amazon in earnest. The simple fact is, reviews sell. For an indie author like myself, positive reviews are golden. I'm letting those in my network know that the book is available, and I'm hoping for promising results. It's one of the most difficult steps in the marketing process, so<a href="http://a.co/0qtFKQs" target="_blank"> if you would like to help out, I would be grateful.</a></div>
<div class="p2">
<br /></div>
<div class="p1">
2 - Giveaways are helpful tools. I can set up various types of opportunities on both Goodreads and Amazon, which hopefully will develop word of mouth and a wider network. I can even set up a giveaway on Amazon that requires entrants to follow me on Twitter.</div>
<div class="p2">
<br /></div>
<div class="p1">
3 - Flash sales. Amazon Kindle allows for limited flash sales, which will allow me to offer the book for free for a limited (one day) sale to encourage readers and reviews.</div>
<div class="p2">
<br /></div>
<div class="p1">
4 - Media coverage. SoupChad is also about polarization in our society, so I'm hoping for media coverage across several platforms, from newspapers to blogs, radio and television.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></div>
<div class="p2">
<br /></div>
<div class="p1">
In the next few weeks, I'll be working on an overall social media campaign to "get the word out" over upcoming months and to brainstorm some promising secondary markets. For example, foodies and soup aficionados might get a kick out of the story. I'm hoping to create some book launch opportunities at schools as well, and engage in classroom discussions.</div>
<div class="p2">
<br /></div>
<div class="p1">
If I can get that word out, I believe I have a fighting chance of getting SoupChad the exposure it deserves.</div>
<div class="p2">
<br /></div>
<style type="text/css">
p.p1 {margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px 'Helvetica Neue'; color: #454545}
p.p2 {margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px 'Helvetica Neue'; color: #454545; min-height: 14.0px}
</style>
<br />
<div class="p1">
Remember, you can follow me on Twitter @Rickflix<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></div>
Rickflixhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00851091100831706043noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3119893162712599171.post-30023691536123025052017-12-18T10:13:00.000-08:002017-12-18T10:13:10.180-08:00The Gig Economy: You Never Know What's Next!<div class="p1">
One of the most enjoyable aspects of working in the gig economy (in my case, working with UpWork and Fiverr), is the wide diversity of challenges I've tackled. I never know what's coming up next. </div>
<div class="p1">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJD4q4tX0gIgAGALnsSjZ94rfceDO_wBR-QjNLI8yU8R80asY_H5qLEYoMFSzynJVBfHBpI-2KapxURHGOD0klVj4gRRt7azgz1fSZYxPu_QEFCt5Qoa7eclUjegk0l9BNn5byeFjdJME/s1600/FullSizeRender+38.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1408" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJD4q4tX0gIgAGALnsSjZ94rfceDO_wBR-QjNLI8yU8R80asY_H5qLEYoMFSzynJVBfHBpI-2KapxURHGOD0klVj4gRRt7azgz1fSZYxPu_QEFCt5Qoa7eclUjegk0l9BNn5byeFjdJME/s200/FullSizeRender+38.jpg" width="175" /></a></div>
<div class="p1">
<br /></div>
<div class="p1">
As an editor, my online work has extended from YouTubers to training videos to a memorial park in Australia, with clients and needs that were everything from simple "do your magic" assignments to true partnerships.</div>
<div class="p2">
<br /></div>
<div class="p1">
As a writer, I've been paid to write (or ghost-write) short stories for various clients, as well as opening chapters for prospective novels. I'm especially excited about the possibilities in this area. To be honest, I hadn't considered writing short stories for pay as even a remote possibility. I'm hoping to grow my clientele in this sector. It is, after all, the core of who I am.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> I've also written specialized short stories intended for specific apps (for example, "chat-based" stories).</span></div>
<div class="p2">
<br /></div>
<div class="p1">
The stories I've written so far extend from historical to biographical, horror and coming of age. In fact, one of my gigs on Fiverr offers to write a short "coming of age" story, while another offers a "Stranger Things" type story. Another throws the net even further, offering to write a general short story. I ask prospective clients to contact me first, so that I can screen those stories that wouldn't be practical (foreign or historical settings that would require research, for example). I've also been asked to write personal letters for those who don't have the skills to put their thoughts and intentions into a cohesive package.</div>
<div class="p1">
<br /></div>
<div class="p1">
To be clear, this isn't a game-changer yet. I haven't reached that volume of work or level of income (though I can see that others have). I'm still working on the right recipe to generate this work on a more consistent basis. How will I make that happen? </div>
<div class="p1">
<br /></div>
<div class="p1">
I'll share my current strategy next time.</div>
<div class="p2">
<br /></div>
<style type="text/css"> p.p1 {margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px 'Helvetica Neue'; color: #454545} p.p2 {margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px 'Helvetica Neue'; color: #454545; min-height: 14.0px} </style>
<br />
<div class="p1">
Remember, you can follow me on Twitter @rickflix.</div>
Rickflixhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00851091100831706043noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3119893162712599171.post-70475840216669317332017-12-14T10:00:00.000-08:002017-12-14T10:00:41.469-08:00Why I Wrote SoupChad<div class="p1">
Like most people, I've found it somewhat difficult to process the increasingly polarized society we live in. Political discourse doesn't exist anymore. Political demonization is the norm. You're with me—or you're against me. We live in a state of anxiety.</div>
<div class="p2">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhv6u1VWxdOZmB6DUWJMJGA_mQn_eIn9steSIdv-ol2ESCJAGXMRau-Ylv9IozgszUkonCYEfX3Cl0t92fgCjubO50oFIQ4tJ95GzoMexbyxy9OG0PbZC2zdkQ1kqYI9mmG_xqmIfkkmDU/s1600/EBOOK.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1000" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhv6u1VWxdOZmB6DUWJMJGA_mQn_eIn9steSIdv-ol2ESCJAGXMRau-Ylv9IozgszUkonCYEfX3Cl0t92fgCjubO50oFIQ4tJ95GzoMexbyxy9OG0PbZC2zdkQ1kqYI9mmG_xqmIfkkmDU/s200/EBOOK.jpg" width="125" /></a></div>
<div class="p1">
<i>SoupChad</i> is my response. It's the tale of a middle school boy who loves soup and won't tolerate any kid who likes salad. When his family moves and he starts at a new middle school, he forms Soup Club to share his passion. Kids steer clear, until he decides to grant each one of them a new name based on their favorite soup. Spinach, Noodle and Chowder join first, followed by Matzo Ball and Potato.</div>
<div class="p2">
<br /></div>
<div class="p1">
But power goes to SoupChad's head, and his club transforms from a gathering of soup fans to an army allied against Salad Eaters. SoupChad doesn't just hate salad, he wants to eliminate it from the school. He'll do anything to make that happen.</div>
<div class="p2">
<br /></div>
<div class="p1">
<i>SoupChad</i> is a story of intolerance and power. While it's a fun, absurd picture of middle school obsession, it's also an allegory that pokes fun at the tendency to see every opposing point of view as an epic battle between Good and Evil, where there is no middle ground and there are only winners and losers.</div>
<div class="p1">
<br /></div>
<div class="p1">
In a modest way, I hope SoupChad encourages kids to treat others who simply don't agree with them with a bit more fairness.</div>
<div class="p2">
<span style="color: white;"><b><br /></b></span></div>
<div class="p2">
<span style="color: white;"><b>Curious? <i>SoupChad</i> is available NOW at Amazon, in both <a href="http://amazon.com/author/richsamuels" target="_blank">paperback and Kindle formats</a>. I would welcome your early review of my book—it's a huge help to an indie author!</b></span></div>
<div class="p2">
<br /></div>
<div class="p2">
You can follow me on Twitter @Rickflix </div>
<style type="text/css"> p.p1 {margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px 'Helvetica Neue'; color: #454545} p.p2 {margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px 'Helvetica Neue'; color: #454545; min-height: 14.0px} </style>Rickflixhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00851091100831706043noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3119893162712599171.post-152644831565477902017-12-12T10:00:00.000-08:002017-12-12T19:13:47.822-08:00Leveling Up: Starting to Build an Online Clientele <div class="p1">
<br /></div>
<div class="p2">
One of the most common criticisms of sites like Fiverr and Upwork is that they're essentially a "race to the bottom," offering services at ever cheaper rates, making the prospect of earning a living virtually impossible.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6NmxRKwrRJDKB2jCS2ZhqiG4iaW4UVhJxrMsWe34RMwFFQfftrTutZt5Bi9rvEWXyAFIY_-D7UNl-hnK1rRL2qi44UfoG8zseUFdKnM1_wKcKpvHs30ZHcPiGMD6bWz68Xu3JFmjSR5I/s1600/IMG_7776.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1101" data-original-width="1468" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6NmxRKwrRJDKB2jCS2ZhqiG4iaW4UVhJxrMsWe34RMwFFQfftrTutZt5Bi9rvEWXyAFIY_-D7UNl-hnK1rRL2qi44UfoG8zseUFdKnM1_wKcKpvHs30ZHcPiGMD6bWz68Xu3JFmjSR5I/s200/IMG_7776.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
<div class="p2">
<br /></div>
<div class="p1">
True, there are thousands of people offering pro gigs at rock-bottom prices. The cost of living, after all, is cheaper in Thailand and India than Los Angeles. They're in every category, from website creation to video services to writing. In some situations, westerners have relocated to low-cost locales. I wondered if it possible to compete.</div>
<div class="p2">
<br /></div>
<div class="p1">
I decided to look further. As I said, as a client, I had already spent over $200 on Fiverr services with just two sellers. I consciously avoided the lower cost options. I wanted to employ an established pro with whom a positive outcome was more likely.</div>
<div class="p2">
<br /></div>
<div class="p1">
As a seller, that's where I want to be.</div>
<div class="p2">
<br /></div>
<div class="p1">
I had two built-in advantages, even as a newcomer: First, I was a video professional with several Los Angeles Emmy Awards to my name (and several additional nominations). I also have published three young adult novels (with a fourth on the way). I hoped those facts gave me a bit of a leg-up against the competition, even though I didn't have a work history or online reviews on the freelance sites when I began.</div>
<div class="p2">
<br /></div>
<div class="p1">
I couldn't charge a premium, though. Despite my background, developing a presence and a collection of positive reviews is the key to higher end gigs. I started the process, seeking small gigs for 25 or 35 dollars that I could complete quickly and cleanly. The jobs I scored weren't going to make a dent in my income, but they would allow me, to borrow game parlance, to "level up" and allow me to play a more powerful game. More on that next time.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></div>
<div class="p2">
<br /></div>
<style type="text/css"> p.p1 {margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px 'Helvetica Neue'; color: #454545} p.p2 {margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px 'Helvetica Neue'; color: #454545; min-height: 14.0px} </style>
<br />
<div class="p1">
Remember to follow me on Twitter @rickflix</div>
Rickflixhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00851091100831706043noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3119893162712599171.post-76446904501547058792017-12-04T19:08:00.000-08:002017-12-04T19:08:47.693-08:00Gig Magic: My First Exposure to the Gig Economy<div class="p1">
Until I became a user of freelance "gig" sites, I hadn't given them much of a thought. I knew Fiver existed but hadn't given it much thought. My first impression was that it was a site where you could get cheap labor to do less than professional work. It didn't have much of an appeal to me as a consumer, and certainly not as a freelancer that needed to make a living.</div>
<div class="p2">
<br /></div>
<div class="p1">
I was collaborating on a series of a video for a client that had requested an animation. In particular, a colleague pitched a "whiteboard" animation, the story of presentation in which a hand seems to draw a series of photos and illustrations.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>I would have had no idea how to obtain the animation locally, what the turnaround would have been, and would have guessed that it would have been prohibitively expensive for the small project we were working on.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></div>
<div class="p2">
<br /></div>
<div class="p1">
To my surprise, my associate was able to present, seemingly overnight, a beautifully produced whiteboard animation for $150, including changes Our client was thrilled. The service had been purchased on Fiverr, and I started exploring the site for other possibilities.</div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRPb-aPq5Bq1RVewlsOCJeLw3W6892w0CVZmHyDpAcZ4Wq0Hle9jzAFKSavDFr7SxQ-sSDyw_UmM9W8FclaBfyXxHSb6JyWAeBui2FQu0_klFz8uF0KAxJEYO4KASu2OpML-LTuGZbm5s/s1600/EBOOK.jpg" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1000" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRPb-aPq5Bq1RVewlsOCJeLw3W6892w0CVZmHyDpAcZ4Wq0Hle9jzAFKSavDFr7SxQ-sSDyw_UmM9W8FclaBfyXxHSb6JyWAeBui2FQu0_klFz8uF0KAxJEYO4KASu2OpML-LTuGZbm5s/s320/EBOOK.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><i>My latest book cover...an international collaboration.</i></span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="p2">
<br /></div>
<div class="p1">
Then, as I began to prepare to publish my fourth book, I was presented with a challenge. I wanted to illustrate the cover of the book with an illustrated cover in the style of a World War 2 propaganda poster. With my previous books, I had used photo elements, which my designer manipulated to create my cover. A specialized illustration required a different approach. Though I had a limited budget, I was determined to see my vision through. I searched Fiver, and eventually found a talented artist in India would do the job for $100. Another Fiver talent treated the book cover. I was able to get exactly what I wanted.</div>
<div class="p2">
<br /></div>
<div class="p1">
That's when I started considering how I might take advantage of these services to offer my own skills. I wondered if it would be worth the effort. I wondered which of my professional skills would be my best bets. I'm an Emmy-winning producer/video editor, I'm also a prolific writer of four novels and numerous blog posts (like this one).</div>
<div class="p2">
<br /></div>
<style type="text/css"> p.p1 {margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px 'Helvetica Neue'; color: #454545} p.p2 {margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px 'Helvetica Neue'; color: #454545; min-height: 14.0px} </style>
<br />
<div class="p1">
I began to seek out my online competition and find out what was possible. I knew I had services to offer, but would it be worthwhile? Could I expect to be paid a fair rate? Was this, as some have suggested, a race to the bottom? Are clients only looking for cheap work?</div>
<div class="p1">
<br /></div>
<div class="p1">
In the next installment, I'll share what I discovered, (and why I decided to move ahead and give it a try regardless!).</div>
<div class="p1">
<br /></div>
<div class="p1">
Remember, you can follow me on Twitter <a href="https://twitter.com/rickflix">@Rickflix </a>. </div>
<div class="p1">
<br /></div>
Rickflixhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00851091100831706043noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3119893162712599171.post-73602095680652104122017-11-29T09:30:00.000-08:002017-11-29T18:38:45.104-08:00I've Gone International: Diving into the Gig Economy<div class="p1">
You may have heard the term, <i>Gig Economy</i>, which generally refers to making a living on a job-by-job basis, rather than working for a single employer. It's become more and more common as time moves on, and it's caused more than a bit of anxiety as jobs with benefits and 401-K's become rarer and more difficult to land. The prospect of "pounding the pavement," looking for the next opportunity isn't that appealing in uncertain times.</div>
<div class="p2">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3BTerXQKWoUgLizU9mm_FEeYyEDss1kq4HlxtHN_0RUTmgz8sCMj6GVFY_rpDzwNkbelnEw2gCTMe4gfBFNqqe2OmgiIRGssC4M2o_0u9UW9OtUdHGNeKlE3MaTzVVUl1e3UVWa0Bqn0/s1600/IMG_8432.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3BTerXQKWoUgLizU9mm_FEeYyEDss1kq4HlxtHN_0RUTmgz8sCMj6GVFY_rpDzwNkbelnEw2gCTMe4gfBFNqqe2OmgiIRGssC4M2o_0u9UW9OtUdHGNeKlE3MaTzVVUl1e3UVWa0Bqn0/s200/IMG_8432.JPG" width="200" /></a></div>
<br /></div>
<div class="p1">
If you're a creative in 2017, however, pounding the pavement is at best an archaic concept. The gig economy, in my initial dive over the last 2-3 months, means expanding my prospects from a limited local focus to one that is international, and much wider in possibilities than it would be otherwise. It means that I'm creating a clientele beyond serving others in the media industry to businesses of all types and sizes, and offering a wider variety of services than ever before. </div>
<div class="p2">
<br /></div>
<div class="p1">
I'm primarily a video editor and writer by trade, which are both crafts uniquely suited to the gig economy. What makes this transition possible, in my case, are two of the most prominent sites in this new world: <b><a href="https://www.upwork.com/fl/richsamuels" target="_blank">Upwork</a> and</b> <b><a href="https://www.fiverr.com/rickflix" target="_blank">Fiverr</a>.</b></div>
<div class="p2">
<br /></div>
<div class="p1">
Fiverr, so called because it began as a resource to obtain creative work (from writing to computer programming to artistic work to video production and editing) for as little as five dollars. That was still my impression until relatively recently, in fact, until I learned that the name of the site had really become a shorthand for finding value at a suitable price. If set up correctly, an individual can set up opportunities that meet their existing rates, and on a more consistent basis. The seller offers a service, or "gig," with a number of add-on premium options, and a buyer needing a service searches for a seller with the experience and price to complete the task at hand. The two come to an agreement, usually customizing a gig to suit the specific situation, and the work is completed in a set time.</div>
<div class="p2">
<br /></div>
<div class="p1">
Upwork allows buyers to post their specific needs. Freelancers submit proposals with a suggested bid. The buyer chooses the freelancer best suited for their job.</div>
<div class="p2">
<br /></div>
<div class="p1">
In both cases, freelancers are paid through the sites, with a percentage subtracted as a service fee. That percentage can be fairly high (20 percent in some cases), but it's not unpredictable. Strategic freelancers will simply keep that fee in mind when setting an hourly rate or submitting a bid. The sites are upfront about this, clearly indicating the bid, the site's fee, and the resulting profit you will see from completing the service. For example, a completed task you accepted for $100 on Upwork will net you $80, with $20 going to the site.</div>
<div class="p2">
<br /></div>
<style type="text/css"> p.p1 {margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px 'Helvetica Neue'; color: #454545} p.p2 {margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px 'Helvetica Neue'; color: #454545; min-height: 14.0px} </style>
<br />
<div class="p1">
Succeeding in the gig economy, though, takes some hard work and careful strategy. I'll take you along on my initial experiences in part two of this series, as I work to develop and build my online reputation. I'll show you how I began and update my progress as the story unfolds.<br />
<br />
I'm just starting my journey, but I can already see the life-changing potential.<br />
<br />
Follow me @rickflix on Twitter, or follow me here. I welcome your feedback and experiences.</div>
Rickflixhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00851091100831706043noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3119893162712599171.post-36055914461507229942017-10-07T20:29:00.004-07:002017-10-07T20:29:58.631-07:00SOUPCHAD Cover Reveal<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQjEq7Gf5Wr6iYr20KWaZCUaGY9s6tmWyDW0tAqCIEvQ2p_k_eHbyky4fytlEeieqOj-bkQYjbYjYFWpCF_5t-popfQ3raqNJtpsL8jN7LJC1tT7DXkRbtou-Z51z3cqbVuax9JBZrBLA/s1600/SOUPCHAD+PLOT+REVEAL+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="800" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQjEq7Gf5Wr6iYr20KWaZCUaGY9s6tmWyDW0tAqCIEvQ2p_k_eHbyky4fytlEeieqOj-bkQYjbYjYFWpCF_5t-popfQ3raqNJtpsL8jN7LJC1tT7DXkRbtou-Z51z3cqbVuax9JBZrBLA/s320/SOUPCHAD+PLOT+REVEAL+2.jpg" width="213" /></a></div>
I'm marking my return to the blogosphere with a cover reveal of my next book. I'm very excited about <i>SoupChad</i>, and about the book cover itself.<br />
<br />
I'm not sharing much just yet about the plotline, except that Chad loves soup...and will not tolerate <i>anyone</i> who likes salad. It's a fun ride that just might give you something to think about, too.<br />
<br />
I'll reveal more about the book over the next few weeks. For now, think of me anytime someone asks, "Soup or Salad?"<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />Rickflixhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00851091100831706043noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3119893162712599171.post-27468341799861567182017-05-01T14:04:00.000-07:002017-05-01T14:04:51.158-07:00If Only the Rest of My Life Was Like This<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAV2Vh7Iw666sFlZC-r8ybjWKhlsyjXy5Z5PS7evB9mtYgLAtplq2dtzLagKLHcNdf-o3osta0lo3nQcc5MQl3OxSJu-xzBj0vCj2l2Ji_D1wqKHfYpwNSmPnKipqhToQIlETqcxbSqbA/s1600/collage.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAV2Vh7Iw666sFlZC-r8ybjWKhlsyjXy5Z5PS7evB9mtYgLAtplq2dtzLagKLHcNdf-o3osta0lo3nQcc5MQl3OxSJu-xzBj0vCj2l2Ji_D1wqKHfYpwNSmPnKipqhToQIlETqcxbSqbA/s320/collage.png" width="239" /></a></div>
</td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">Scenes from the making of "The Ghost of Pacific Lodge."<br />Faces are blurred for privacy reasons.</span></i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small;">As a volunteer, I’ve led video production workshops in a variety of settings and for ages ranging from teenagers to the elderly. One workshop, however, was especially meaningful.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small;">At a chance meeting with the development director of <a href="http://plys.org/">Pacific Lodge Boys Home</a> (Now Pacific Lodge Youth Services), a youth home dating back to the 1920's. I mentioned that I’d conducted filmmaking workshops in the past. I was asked if I’d consider a similar workshop at Pacific Lodge.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small;">I admit some reluctance at first. These were kids fresh out of juvenile hall, with backgrounds that were difficult if sometimes brutal. However, they’re also kids that the courts felt still had the chance to change their lives in a positive direction. By sending them to Pacific Lodge, a bucolic wooded setting where there were no walls or guards, they’re given the chance to work with counselors and therapists to set things right.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small;">At first glance, you wouldn’t think I would have had anything in common with the boys. I was never in trouble as a teen, much less had been anywhere close to juvenile hall. My family life wouldn't have been called “dysfunctional.” On the other hand, previous experience in working with teens had taught me that showing respect and belief in their abilities went a long way in creating a positive experience. I decided to give it a try.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxz6eEMp4aGsOrUogL_Vh9qgDjFGyfIcX8BYbRitc16_NVSKEIj_NCcoD4MU6nm-m6IWnT_ziQ4TUkGm-LVg6sCeKafyir_KAqKmHMLixmywCBJLO2mJxi1ZseTMTpgIY7x-Gzg-AWQBA/s1600/MoviePremiere-Invitation-resident-1.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxz6eEMp4aGsOrUogL_Vh9qgDjFGyfIcX8BYbRitc16_NVSKEIj_NCcoD4MU6nm-m6IWnT_ziQ4TUkGm-LVg6sCeKafyir_KAqKmHMLixmywCBJLO2mJxi1ZseTMTpgIY7x-Gzg-AWQBA/s200/MoviePremiere-Invitation-resident-1.png" width="154" /></span></a><o:p><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small;"> </span></o:p></div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUYZO1TIiM9B8l2zC7x-azicTDCSUDkikdpzTwEk8o3bjPFkRkSUA-wEYsbd4QUHao1RGDwqic7CaRpcsMnEYVigSry5xVtMBGJ4pvhGe9is9f3k4qBXv_dGnghqGZ1duxgPM9GHblXGY/s1600/outlodge.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUYZO1TIiM9B8l2zC7x-azicTDCSUDkikdpzTwEk8o3bjPFkRkSUA-wEYsbd4QUHao1RGDwqic7CaRpcsMnEYVigSry5xVtMBGJ4pvhGe9is9f3k4qBXv_dGnghqGZ1duxgPM9GHblXGY/s200/outlodge.png" width="200" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">P<i>acific Lodge hosted a "red carpet" premiere,<br />complete with a limousine and dinner for<br />the boys and I at an upscale restaurant.</i></span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small;">In late 2003, I began a six-month video production workshop with a group of eight boys. With the help of a great staff and a well-respected counselor with whom I worked hand-in-hand, I visited Pacific Lodge twice a week as the kids wrote, shot and then edited a half-hour film, “The Ghost of Pacific Lodge.” Together, we built a mythology inspired by PL's long history, crafting a ghost story that begins with the discovery of mysterious diary hidden in one of PL's spooky basements. Each boy participated in every stage of the production. Each had the chance to be a camera person, an audio boom operator, a special effects wizard, a director, and an actor. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small;">It was challenging at first. For kids emerging from their first stay at juvenile hall, self-esteem is nearly non-existent. Despite their bravado, many of the boys were terrified. Some wouldn’t hold the camera at first. Others couldn’t imagine taking the lead as director. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small;">I'll never forget the moment when a fourteen-year-old boy turned to me and asked, “Why do you waste time with us? We’re all losers.” I shrugged and made a point of making the answer seem obvious, “If I thought you were losers, I wouldn’t waste my time.” <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small;"><br /></span></div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXcR4vzMGZref-LFfYBAGJdMmiWtuDzCJDheZO_n-Vs0NCdxxuDRb1bYmMaQqS-e38mEFARACqkcrmHJiBoP2wzjBUSPkIU_lEem2cw28Uc0GElJetyNnv7IM-pXAdCTnlbtcbFZTKmQo/s1600/richspeaks.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXcR4vzMGZref-LFfYBAGJdMmiWtuDzCJDheZO_n-Vs0NCdxxuDRb1bYmMaQqS-e38mEFARACqkcrmHJiBoP2wzjBUSPkIU_lEem2cw28Uc0GElJetyNnv7IM-pXAdCTnlbtcbFZTKmQo/s200/richspeaks.png" width="200" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">Speaking after the premiere, thanking<br />the boys for a job well done.</span></i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Trust is extraordinarily powerful. Once I established that I was for real—by simply paying them the respect of showing up as promised every week—they became more willing to take part. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span> <span style="font-family: inherit;">Once the film was completed, the administration of PL held a grand premiere. Staff and benefactors cheered the boys as they emerged from a limousine and walked down the red carpet (after a five-star dinner at a nearby restaurant—personally paid for by the Director of PL). I had the great honor of not only telling the audience what these boys had accomplished, but thanking the boys individually and presenting them with mini-Oscars. </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span> <span style="font-family: inherit;">Not every boy made it through to the end. Some were sent back to juvenile hall, or worse. </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span> <span style="font-family: inherit;">Most boys, however, made it to the finish line...</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span> <span style="font-family: inherit;">...including the one boy who had been convinced he was a loser.</span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 16px;"><br /></span> <span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 16px;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<style> <!-- /* Font Definitions */ @font-face {font-family:"MS 明朝"; mso-font-charset:78; mso-generic-font-family:auto; mso-font-pitch:variable; mso-font-signature:1 134676480 16 0 131072 0;} @font-face {font-family:"MS 明朝"; mso-font-charset:78; mso-generic-font-family:auto; mso-font-pitch:variable; mso-font-signature:1 134676480 16 0 131072 0;} /* Style Definitions */ p.MsoNormal, li.MsoNormal, div.MsoNormal {mso-style-unhide:no; mso-style-qformat:yes; mso-style-parent:""; margin:0in; margin-bottom:.0001pt; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:12.0pt; font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family:"MS 明朝"; mso-fareast-theme-font:minor-fareast;} .MsoChpDefault {mso-style-type:export-only; mso-default-props:yes; font-size:10.0pt; mso-ansi-font-size:10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size:10.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family:"MS 明朝"; mso-fareast-theme-font:minor-fareast; mso-fareast-language:JA;} @page WordSection1 {size:8.5in 11.0in; margin:1.0in 1.25in 1.0in 1.25in; mso-header-margin:.5in; mso-footer-margin:.5in; mso-paper-source:0;} div.WordSection1 {page:WordSection1;} --> </style>Rickflixhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00851091100831706043noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3119893162712599171.post-67464766355688409352017-04-23T17:10:00.000-07:002017-11-25T23:54:49.066-08:00Virtual Reality: Boxless ThinkingRecently I spent a couple of days at the Los Angeles Convention Center, enjoying the sites, sounds, and creative energy of the emerging Virtual Reality industry. I sampled new worlds and met extraordinary people.<br />
<br />
I listened to industry leaders both inspire and caution entrepreneurs about the future of the VR platform. John Riccitiello, the CEO of the ubiquitous Unity game development platform, believes that the industry will continue to progress, but won't reach massive acceptance for a few years yet. Pie-in-the-sky predictions aside, he believes it will be a few yet until true VR tech will be in the hands of one hundred million users and the industry can be considered well-established.<br />
<br />
At the same time, excitement was palpable, and proof of the technology was everywhere.<br />
<br />
Applications varied wildly. Here's just some of what I was doing at VRLA:<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSZ6fMsp2rFY_d7CiCzthbHuZ5hmGpZIUpAUBrndR-mNbxrljIpzAN0NqkjZeyLnTelg9L6Mtf5oHMERbySrRyPDV0oqj9t0PXQhrauNClGEn6qpVOWy6oFTlBecsaTlXMMHr5yYKaEDI/s1600/richvr.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSZ6fMsp2rFY_d7CiCzthbHuZ5hmGpZIUpAUBrndR-mNbxrljIpzAN0NqkjZeyLnTelg9L6Mtf5oHMERbySrRyPDV0oqj9t0PXQhrauNClGEn6qpVOWy6oFTlBecsaTlXMMHr5yYKaEDI/s200/richvr.jpg" width="193" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Inside <i class="">Mindshow</i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: right;">
</div>
<br />
Floated inside and outside a meticulously detailed recreation of the International Space Station, produced with the involvement of NASA. <a href="https://www.oculus.com/experiences/rift/1178419975552187/">https://www.oculus.com/experiences/rift/1178419975552187/</a><br />
<ul>
<li>Experienced the magic of being inside a retro style cartoon—and creating my own, VR style, utilizing <b class="">Mindshow</b>. <a href="https://mindshow.com/">https://mindshow.com/</a></li>
<li>Tried out <b>Bebylon</b>,a bizarre world featuring adults stuck in toddler's bodies. <a href="http://www.roadtovr.com/kite-lightning-raises-2-5m-develop-bebylon/">http://www.roadtovr.com/kite-lightning-raises-2-5m-develop-bebylon/</a></li>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxSHc4NJnQO2E13PkQCfq5IPb5qL00KWuaOqX2Xj8lzGct-QeKTOTewZd6K55orGJ2cs0aGyw_t2yiNelfxk9C8ig5rAVrCTZFXXSmxEk434GUwS4h35VR0zFrDpUSkMODafy0daaXWzQ/s1600/IMG_9440.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxSHc4NJnQO2E13PkQCfq5IPb5qL00KWuaOqX2Xj8lzGct-QeKTOTewZd6K55orGJ2cs0aGyw_t2yiNelfxk9C8ig5rAVrCTZFXXSmxEk434GUwS4h35VR0zFrDpUSkMODafy0daaXWzQ/s200/IMG_9440.JPG" width="150" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Trying out <i>Foreverse</i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<li>Experienced <b class="">Foreverse</b>, a pilot for a VR series that is attempting find a <a href="https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/1707651266/foreverse-virtual-reality-event-series">Kickstarter campaign</a>. </li>
</ul>
<br />
All were great experiences, and show just a hint of the wonders that VR will hold in store in the coming years. The VR industry is moving lightning fast, and many of the companies and projects on the exhibition floor didn't exist a year ago. Of course, perhaps half of those companies or more may not be around in another year, but that's the reality of any new venture...high risk, for the potential of a high reward.<br />
<div>
<br />
The technology is real. Unlike the recent launch and crash of 3DTV, VR has something valuable to offer gamers, educators and even bed-ridden patients in hospitals. It's just a matter of time.<br />
<br />
At the moment, VR tech is still expensive and somewhat complicated for most consumers, but that's rapidly improving. Most haven't experienced any sort of VR, and most of those who <i>have,</i> experience it through cardboard viewers (into which one inserts a smartphone). Personal experience has shown me that people don't "get it" until they've tried it.<br />
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
While I'm impressed by the tech, the industry and the VR experiences, I'm fascinated by the people that are making this all happen—the coders, content creators, writers and entrepreneurs who by necessity have had to think outside the box—because the box doesn't exist.</div>
<div>
</div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
Rickflixhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00851091100831706043noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3119893162712599171.post-78376640208558604252017-04-13T22:38:00.000-07:002017-04-13T22:38:06.277-07:00Tapping BackA few weeks ago, <a href="http://worldaccordingtorich.blogspot.com/2017/03/the-money-tap.html">I wrote here about my experience using the Tap app</a> on my iPhone, in which stories are told entirely in the form of text messages. As you may recall, I tried it out, wrote a couple of stories, and then decided that the pricing structure wasn't to my liking, and decided to move on the sister app, Wattpad, a long established creative writing destination. I actually like the app itself, but doubted it viability as a successful venture.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2JLkFWK3cgV4YTgXphDXTMTRQ0LhvwblIseGa4TM9YYpu_2NtiAqRDX3TWabBHmVJL2arscpenB5xakjQOSrPTuNQytSd_Q31yPb-m3aicbN-byM4piL-iZZ2bEm7HmIoA8nPiST_oMo/s1600/IMG_9328.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2JLkFWK3cgV4YTgXphDXTMTRQ0LhvwblIseGa4TM9YYpu_2NtiAqRDX3TWabBHmVJL2arscpenB5xakjQOSrPTuNQytSd_Q31yPb-m3aicbN-byM4piL-iZZ2bEm7HmIoA8nPiST_oMo/s200/IMG_9328.PNG" width="112" /></a>Yesterday, Tap was brought to my attention when I received an email from the Tap offices, asking to feature one of my stories on their front page. I agreed. It hasn't happened yet, but it drove me back to the app to check on the fate of my stories.<br />
<br />
<i>Played</i>, the story Tap wants to feature, doesn't have too many views - it hasn't grown much in several weeks. The other story, <a href="https://taptaptap.co/story/-KeSKDeb4PLaWE7ivlYb?utm_source=web&utm_medium=email&utm_content=story"><i>The Prank</i></a>, which is based on characters in my book, <i>My Life at the Bottom of the Food Chain</i>, is trending upward, with over 145,000 "taps" and rising. I'm not certain precisely how that translates into individual readers, but the number is growing daily and my "friends" list is expanding rapidly (it had been entirely empty at last glance).<br />
<br />
I'm still not convinced about the pricing scheme, but I have to admit that the growth in my Tap account is fascinating. I'm curious what will happen when/if my story is featured, and I've decided to create an additional story or two and see what happens. I still wish I could share the stories more freely, as I do on Wattpad. but for the time being I'll give it a go and see what happens.<br />
<br />
I also have a suspicion that <i>The Prank</i> may have cross promoted my Alexander books (and sold a few copies). If it gains more readers, will I see a spike in book sales? Very interesting...<br />
<br />
At the very least, I don't want to disappoint my new friends!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<br />Rickflixhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00851091100831706043noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3119893162712599171.post-86080621749159356062017-04-03T13:54:00.001-07:002017-04-03T14:11:12.715-07:00Author Update (aka what am I doing?)<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6boIqYMPt8VqnsLzB1-P6d55n4Yv00exxtpAPXVdoB4QLqkAarwRvGLv8QfUVO6-8F0gyNi9XoDhyv4k06Vm-Br2xDxn9S6SjU6M0Tdc5KubIdzTyXwrmIZekHXBGGsbMVg-SJytrK08/s1600/RICH.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6boIqYMPt8VqnsLzB1-P6d55n4Yv00exxtpAPXVdoB4QLqkAarwRvGLv8QfUVO6-8F0gyNi9XoDhyv4k06Vm-Br2xDxn9S6SjU6M0Tdc5KubIdzTyXwrmIZekHXBGGsbMVg-SJytrK08/s200/RICH.jpg" width="150" /></a></div>
Here's what's going on in the world of Rich Samuels (Author Edition):<br />
<br />
<ul><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiL9_whcCkqgZ4JuHR1lJDsPWcpF2jyNoXUvHESEgGa0V-OMLrc099wuP5NsgdtJ7PstV24YmEl5KZGaTEcG57g_CiKRSit44MOc13GJsg8q7foZ1LihCn17_xvjgMzDozT9gVCuKomOME/s1600/small+epic.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiL9_whcCkqgZ4JuHR1lJDsPWcpF2jyNoXUvHESEgGa0V-OMLrc099wuP5NsgdtJ7PstV24YmEl5KZGaTEcG57g_CiKRSit44MOc13GJsg8q7foZ1LihCn17_xvjgMzDozT9gVCuKomOME/s200/small+epic.png" width="133" /></a>
<li>I continue work on the audiobook of "My Epic Life," the third of my Alexander books. I've been busy with other things, but I'm still hoping to have it ready in time for summer road trips. I hope to publish both an audio edition of this book, and a compilation of all three books—which will make for a fun 7-8 hours of drive time! If you think you might like to relive your most awkward middle school moments, let me know through my social media: Once the audio book's published, I'll have codes good for free downloads! </li>
</ul>
<div>
<br /></div>
<ul>
<li>If you don't know already, I'm posting ongoing stories on the Wattpad, the creative writing site. This is (if readers respond) a way for me to experiment with new genres, and engage in a little bit of reader feedback. <b>I'd love to hear from you</b>. Which would you like to see evolve into novel form? If you're already on Wattpad, <a href="https://www.wattpad.com/RichSamuels?utm_source=web&utm_medium=email&utm_content=share_profile">please follow me</a> - I'm new there, and I have just about zero visibility! Here are the works that I'm currently working on (I update each at least once a week): </li>
</ul>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; display: inline !important; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRWmoiebYhLhHfZeu42d_6sMkIAJ1puZiEBmzjNd92KO3fBdZPNHUUIEccC9xULysy6prNhwJM4u7cbLFudgZEMAfGCXcGwmwz8m-nq6wx07LLChPVnEJ-LTDnojpJPGQ67Hyo6oeRuaE/s1600/soupchad.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; display: inline !important; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRWmoiebYhLhHfZeu42d_6sMkIAJ1puZiEBmzjNd92KO3fBdZPNHUUIEccC9xULysy6prNhwJM4u7cbLFudgZEMAfGCXcGwmwz8m-nq6wx07LLChPVnEJ-LTDnojpJPGQ67Hyo6oeRuaE/s200/soupchad.jpg" width="146" /></a></div>
<i><a href="https://www.wattpad.com/story/104389000-soupchad?utm_source=web&utm_medium=email&utm_content=share_myworks">SoupChad</a></i> <span style="text-align: center;">is a tale in the spirit of my </span><i style="text-align: center;">Alexander</i><span style="text-align: center;"> books. It's a story about a boy who loves </span>soup,<span style="text-align: center;"> and had no patience for kids who like salad. If you've ready my books, you know how much I enjoy obsessive characters. Chad fits right in. You also might find this to be an allegory...</span><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgY19f0PhA7PvR2oWM-pbSI2GfP5iyoNfwxRcshNZpQJBYqE-bKHu1ywZGrT_IenikihFdtebFOzmteapluAc98r3ZdQixeDq06VpbdMv-g-MTx2eEub82MVTHtzKvVd4raP2eFgIpZrEE/s1600/feeder3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgY19f0PhA7PvR2oWM-pbSI2GfP5iyoNfwxRcshNZpQJBYqE-bKHu1ywZGrT_IenikihFdtebFOzmteapluAc98r3ZdQixeDq06VpbdMv-g-MTx2eEub82MVTHtzKvVd4raP2eFgIpZrEE/s200/feeder3.jpg" width="146" /></a><span class=""></span><br />
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span class=""><i class="" style="font-style: italic;"><br /></i></span></div>
<span class=""> <div style="text-align: left;">
<i class="" style="font-style: italic;"><br /></i></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<i class="" style="font-style: italic;"><br /></i></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<i class="" style="font-style: italic;"><a href="https://www.wattpad.com/story/103480046-feeder?utm_source=web&utm_medium=email&utm_content=share_myworks">Feeder</a></i><i> </i>is part zombie tale / part vampire tale / part experiment in creepiness. This is probably the most experimental of all the stories I've posted so far. What do you think?</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsAWlCZ5tkfKwH9OYEEydrj8UamFo_EdgpwrrNTWB9i94HhWQ7ABnGAZP9U90GCaCdX0O_bmIL9xgZYo_tK509lZQJF9AZGiN4F09HNzT69RfnZqzVkStB0WfV1pWbZTwGXx435O2Vhq4/s1600/marcus+cover.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: right;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsAWlCZ5tkfKwH9OYEEydrj8UamFo_EdgpwrrNTWB9i94HhWQ7ABnGAZP9U90GCaCdX0O_bmIL9xgZYo_tK509lZQJF9AZGiN4F09HNzT69RfnZqzVkStB0WfV1pWbZTwGXx435O2Vhq4/s200/marcus+cover.png" width="127" /></a><i></i><br />
<div style="text-align: left;">
<i><i><br /></i></i></div>
<i> <div style="text-align: left;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<a href="https://www.wattpad.com/story/87562339-marcus-on-the-train?utm_source=web&utm_medium=email&utm_content=share_myworks">Marcus on the Train</a></i> (as well as Soupchad) is a thriller I've been tooling around with for quite a long time. This one is about a teen runaway whose unwanted companion is proving to be more than a little unbalanced. </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Offline, I'm working on a couple of novels that I'm not quite ready to talk about yet. One is a science fiction tale, and the other a thriller/mystery. I'm hoping to have one or both available next year...I hope to share more soon!</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: right;">
<i>(VR Update coming soon!)</i></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: right;">
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
Rickflixhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00851091100831706043noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3119893162712599171.post-8707790559487440622017-03-27T16:01:00.000-07:002017-03-27T16:01:27.181-07:00Writing Evil (and other things)<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://my.w.tt/UiNb/UUvHgLAPRB"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTs-gh3qo_mDofYO8x0yEY0994ATYyafm8Pt6HRPKx3_BrXZquGvrtDp7HXxx5ZtpIUUOgn6qqF61u7pyef9hR03Rq4X4PyG_jUUU9MUdJeqK3Skeizxgt1___nJlUEYyFs7xo6iMlEbg/s320/feeder3.jpg" width="234" /></a></div>
<br />
If you read my recent blogs, you know that I had a less than satisfying interaction with Wattpad's TAP creative writing app (see <a href="http://worldaccordingtorich.blogspot.com/2017/03/the-money-tap.html"><i>The Money Tap</i></a>). Now, I'm launching another storytelling experiment at Tap's parent site, Wattpad.<br />
<br />
Wattpad is a well-established (since 2006) creative writing site with social media elements built-in. Demographics here tend to include readers under thirty, so it will be interesting to see if I can create any kind of following (an ongoing objective as an indie writer). To make this especially fun, I'll be experimenting in genres of which I'm less known: Horror, thrillers, and who knows what else. This will be a place, at least for a while, to experiment. Because Wattpad allows for writing and editing on my iPhone, I'll be able to write some of these chapters on-the-go.<br />
<br />
Some of what I post will be totally unplanned, and may begin and end on Wattpad. Other stories may have earlier origins, but haven't yet been seen publically. These stories may not be as polished as my published work, but I'll do my best to make each story a fun ride.<br />
<br />
I invite you to join me (I need some initial followers!) and read my first ongoing story, <i><a href="http://my.w.tt/UiNb/UUvHgLAPRB">Feeder</a></i>, a horror story of sorts with zombie and vampire elements...like I said, a totally different experience! I've written three parts/chapters so far (they're running about 400-500 words each), and I'll continue posting every few days. This isn't planned, so your comments may very well have an impact on the course of the story.<br />
<br />
I'll be adding other stories...hopefully to create a few simultaneous adventures (and more opportunities to connect. Right now, you can also find a short story based on my <i>Alexander</i> books, <a href="http://my.w.tt/UiNb/HcF8AfLPRB"><i>Why Do You Think They Call It a Ghost Town?</i></a><br />
<br />
See you there!<br />
<br />Rickflixhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00851091100831706043noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3119893162712599171.post-34160097161213573652017-03-21T11:48:00.001-07:002017-03-21T11:48:15.756-07:00What IS New Media, Anyway?In a couple of weeks, I'll be speaking at the "Pathways to Employment" event being held in San Pedro, California by the San Pedro Neighborhood Council. My topic will be New Media, which is both an exciting and challenging area to consider. <div>
<br /></div>
<div>
The very definition is elusive. Ask a dozen people what "new media" means, and you'll get a dozen answers. It changes depending on rapidly developing technology. What's "new?" Something that just emerged last month? Last Year? Ten years ago? Or, does "New Media" include all emergent media platforms since movies, television and radio? </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJS8eLGq4YGAuPS1T1NVNN7k-PYnCxcImfNEKFqQs0rwFzB7Ka8vT9X8Im1r2Ze7KPpxgTIHqx0sZkjmO4HUxaE98CsCq9CaHCY2MOJJwrURLsMa57-fjFgFvYKJUS42fyoysnUnlgB3g/s1600/richthink.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="161" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJS8eLGq4YGAuPS1T1NVNN7k-PYnCxcImfNEKFqQs0rwFzB7Ka8vT9X8Im1r2Ze7KPpxgTIHqx0sZkjmO4HUxaE98CsCq9CaHCY2MOJJwrURLsMa57-fjFgFvYKJUS42fyoysnUnlgB3g/s320/richthink.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Virtual Reality is certainly considered New Media. YouTube, at twelve years old, is considered New Media. Podcasting also falls into that definition. <a href="http://www.newmedia.org/what-is-new-media.html">The New Media Institute</a> defines it as "<b>a 21st Century catchall term used to define all that is related to the internet and the interplay between technology, images and sound.</b>" In other words, it includes nearly every way we communicate today.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
I've experimented in varying degrees with New Media. For example, I've blogged for myself and for corporate clients, I've been on YouTube, I've podcasted here and there, and I'm currently diving into Virtual Reality. I've watched with fascination how creators have built their media presence, or failed to take advantage of their unique opportunities. The one question that's always lurked in the back of my mind: <i>how does this all work together?</i></div>
<div>
<i><br /></i></div>
<div>
One of the most fascinating chapters in his process was a series of short interviews I conducted and posted with several dozen YouTubers. Young or old, I asked them all the same question: Why do you do it? Some simply wanted to be stars, of course, but most had other reasons: friendship, building skills and opportunity, helping or inspiring others. Some were kids in their early teens, while others were retired. Most were somewhere in between.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
What ever their motivation, I found that many shared an entrepreneurial spirit—a desire to see where this adventure would lead, and the willingness to put themselves out there to make it happen. I was inspired to follow their example—not to make more YouTube videos, but to focus on the core of my own passion as a storyteller. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
New Media directly inspired me to create traditional media. To date, I've written three young adult novels, which in turn are promoted and distributed and promoted across various new media platforms.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
New Media isn't so much about platforms. It's about <b>strategy</b> and learning to use these new tools effectively for your own "bigger picture." That's a skill that most individuals and corporations are still finding elusive, and where the real opportunity lies for young creators.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
Rickflixhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00851091100831706043noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3119893162712599171.post-4559443053584975072017-03-20T09:55:00.000-07:002017-03-20T09:55:25.500-07:00The Money Tap<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgX-9d6VOZGOv6-76dMJQfsOfhabi4ipHFJjAwy-JUjRGB_PK2sTX2O7-Pryn6KnNGsIQO8hfIq_9bOfe8_3V55FboTQ7ocZGAkIeqLNJlRn0MxxrD9eupfIl7s1xq9lCIqVagsAMld2rk/s1600/IMG_9328.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgX-9d6VOZGOv6-76dMJQfsOfhabi4ipHFJjAwy-JUjRGB_PK2sTX2O7-Pryn6KnNGsIQO8hfIq_9bOfe8_3V55FboTQ7ocZGAkIeqLNJlRn0MxxrD9eupfIl7s1xq9lCIqVagsAMld2rk/s320/IMG_9328.PNG" width="179" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
I continued to experiment with WattPad's Tap, a creative writing app for Android and iOS devices, this time with a story based on characters I created in my book series. As in <i>My Life at the Bottom of the Food Chain</i>, <a href="https://taptaptap.co/story/-KeSKDeb4PLaWE7ivlYb?utm_source=web&utm_medium=email&utm_content=story">The Prank</a> finds Alexander cautious about non-existent dangers at his school. In the chat-based world of Tap, Alexander texts his friend Anthony and explains why he's waiting for just the right moment to enter the school gate. Anthony tries to convince him that he's being unreasonable, but Alexander isn't convinced.<br />
<br />
In this Tap-only story, Anthony conspires with Darrell and cooks up the perfect prank to teach Alexander a lesson. Alexander, though, sees the world in his own way, and things don't turn out like Anthony thinks it will.<br />
<br />
This time, the story takes place in six separate scenes, with a total of 306 "texts" between Anthony, Darrell and their friends. I posted it a few days ago on Tap, but my little comedy is somewhat lost in the Tap world of horror, romance and fan stories. I'm happy to say, though, that both this and my previous story, Played, will turn up if you search under my Rickflix name.<br />
<br />
I enjoyed the on-the-go ease of creating in this format, allowing me to create at any random moment during the day.<br />
<br /><b>Unfortunately,</b> as I've discovered the pay-as-you-go scheme that Tap is using, I'm not certain if I'll continue with this platform. In the app, Tap will allow you to read my story for a couple of minutes, and then present you with a message, <i>Are you addicted yet?</i> and prompt you to either wait 25 minutes to continue reading any story, or "Upgrade to Tap Premium," which can cost $2.99 a week, $7.99 a month, or $39.99 for 12 months of unlimited access to all content. I wonder why I would contribute content to a site that charges readers, but doesn't offer authors compensation for creating readable content. <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOWK050posrPpSUS_1eWEU7tu5gELP94N2HMHtSwIw-s9G5sLQXBwHGhVk7Lj02K_CUrVz3dHe3OfN3u5Lk0PTD37PeclqKOqfYLE3MXcnghT62vN-5-6eP1bNMHygvZ3kfLdvFhHUR-g/s1600/IMG_9330.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOWK050posrPpSUS_1eWEU7tu5gELP94N2HMHtSwIw-s9G5sLQXBwHGhVk7Lj02K_CUrVz3dHe3OfN3u5Lk0PTD37PeclqKOqfYLE3MXcnghT62vN-5-6eP1bNMHygvZ3kfLdvFhHUR-g/s200/IMG_9330.PNG" width="112" /></a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<div>
If you wait the full time to read for free, you can continue reading for a short time, perhaps enough to finish reading the story and start another one, but soon a new prompt will require that you wait another 25 minutes.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
To read my story, you could start at the above desktop link, but it will prompt you to download the app on your Android or iPhone, and then the <i>Are you addicted yet? </i>cycle will begin. Suddenly, just reading my little story becomes a chore.</div>
<div>
<br />Considering the wide range of free content available elsewhere, I also have to wonder if this concept will work at all. Would you pay for access to uncurated fiction? </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<b>Tap is a promising concept,</b> but in the current version, I wonder how much support it will find. Perhaps offering exclusive content by pro authors might encourage subscriptions, but there doesn't seem to be any compensation or reward for those who might develop popular content on the site. That will invariably turn people off.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
I'd rather see an ad-based version, which seems to work well for so many other apps. Many readers and writers would support the option of purchasing an ad-free edition. I did that for Words With Friends. I wouldn't mind doing it for a creative app. </div>
<div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Let me know what you think.<br />
<br /></div>
</div>
</div>
Rickflixhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00851091100831706043noreply@blogger.com2