How much of your story should you tell when the people who lived it with you might not agree with your version?

For Sarah Locke, writing her memoir, Living Out Loud, meant confronting that very question.

In this episode of Finish the Damn Book, Susie Schaefer talks with Sarah about writing a deeply personal memoir, deciding what to share, and discovering that publishing your truth can change relationships in ways you never expected.

Sarah began writing as a way to process major life experiences, including coming out in her thirties and navigating a multiple sclerosis diagnosis. What started as late-night writing became a published book that helped readers feel understood and less alone.

But it wasn't without challenges. Sarah shares how some friendships ended after publication, why she chose not to include every detail of her life, and how she worked with professional editors to make her story clearer and more meaningful.

She also discusses the value of asking for help, setting boundaries, and turning her personal experiences into a mission to serve others through Locke's Promise.

IN THIS EPISODE:

• Finding the courage to write your personal story
• How to decide what belongs in your memoir
• Navigating reactions from friends and family
• Why Sarah kept her manuscript private during the writing process
• What she learned from working with a hybrid publisher
• How professional editing helped her become a stronger storyteller
• The unexpected ways readers connected with her experiences
• Learning to ask for help and establish boundaries
• How Living Out Loud supports people living with multiple sclerosis
• Why authenticity matters both on and off the page

ABOUT SARAH LOCKE

Sarah Locke is the author of Living Out Loud and founder of Locke's Promise, a New Hampshire nonprofit supporting individuals and families affected by multiple sclerosis.

Her writing explores authenticity, resilience, and the power of telling your story. Through Locke's Promise, she helps connect people with resources, practical assistance, and community support.

CONNECT WITH SARAH

Website: https://www.lockespromise.com/

WATCH OR LISTEN TO THIS EPISODE

https://geni.us/fdb-sarah-locke

CONTENT NOTE: This episode includes discussion of multiple sclerosis, personal identity, family relationships, and spiritual interpretations. Medical experiences are personal accounts, not medical guidance.

Finish the Damn Book Podcast helps aspiring authors, entrepreneurs, creatives, and writers finally complete the book they know they’re meant to write.

Hosted by Susie Schaefer, the podcast cuts through perfectionism, writer’s block, overwhelm, and publishing confusion with honest conversations about writing, publishing, book marketing, creativity, and the author journey.

Featuring authors, editors, ghostwriters, publishers, writing coaches, and industry professionals, each episode offers practical strategies to help writers finish, publish, and share meaningful books.

Topics include:
• Writing and revision tips
• Publishing and self-publishing guidance
• Book marketing and platform-building
• Creativity, confidence, and procrastination
• Encouragement for writers stuck in the messy middle

Many episodes close with Susie’s signature “Reflection Moment”, an intuitive conversation exploring creativity, identity, purpose, and the emotional side of becoming an author.

Whether you’re writing memoir, nonfiction, business, or personal development, Finish the Damn Book is here to help you trust your voice and finally bring your story to life.

Ready to move your book forward?
https://www.finishthebookpublishing.com/