SouthWest Writers presents memoirist Kathleen A. Hessler discussing why everyone has a story, but not everyone wants to share it. If you want to write a memoir, or have written one and are deciding whether to seek an agent, a publisher, self-publish, or set it aside for later, this talk is for you. This is not a how-to speech; rather, it is an opportunity to learn from my mistakes.

Why write a memoir?
Who is your audience: Family or the world?
Writing, research, and critique groups: Value of sharing as you write.
Editors and editing services: Be clear about what your editor will do for you.
Beta Readers: What is a beta reader, and what benefit do they offer?
Agents, Publishers, and Self-publishing
Marketing
Kathleen A. Hessler, an attorney and registered nurse, represented healthcare providers for nearly thirty years. Throughout her career, she has spoken at numerous legal and healthcare conferences. She is working at being retired—writing, golfing, hiking, and traveling. Her memoir, Promise Me Daughter, was published in October 2025.