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Writers Chat

Writers Chat Recap for July

Writers Chat Recap

Writers Chat, hosted by Jean Wise, Johnnie Alexander, and Brandy Brow, is the show where we talk about all things writing, by writers and for writers!

“Because talking about writing is more fun than actually doing it.”

Writing Books, Releasing a Sound with Louisa Treyborac

Author Louisa Treyborac joins us from France to share her unique writing journey. She reminds us, “you have a quill” and an opportunity to smuggle God’s redemptive message into our stories. Louisa’s spiritual and writing journeys are intricately intertwined. She explains how she learned to be a better writer by translating stories from English to French and the value of entering short story contests. Louisa likes to update public domain classics like Agnes Grey (Anne Bronte) and Persuasion (Jane Austen) to create a modern series. You will be inspired and encouraged by Louisa’s creativity which is rooted in her prayer, “Lord, give me Your strategy for that.”

Watch the July 11th Replay.

Louisa Treyborac, born in Paris, speaks five languages, and follows the family tradition transmitting stories. She writes in French and should soon publish in English. An angelic fantasy novel, an edgy fantasy soft crime fiction, a steampunk dystopian novel for teens, and short stories for kids are part of her inspired creations. And there’s more to come!

From Inspiration to Editing: How AutoCrit Can Help You Unlock Your Book’s Brillance

In this episode of Writers Chat, Jocelyn demonstrates how AutoCrit can make your book shine bright. She also shares how their approach to stronger writing incorporates research from millions of books and the principles of great storytelling into their software. With more than ten years’ experience helping authors produce better books, AutoCrit has kept its finger on the pulse of the industry. Get a look at advanced tools to plan, write, and edit your books. Plus, a vibrant private community for networking. They also have a successful catalog of genre courses and writing workshops.

Watch the July 18th replay.

Writers Chat is hosted live each Tuesday for an hour starting at 10 AM CT / 11 AM ET
on Zoom. The permanent Zoom room link is: http://zoom.us/j/4074198133

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Writers Chat

Writers Chat Recap for June Part 2

Writers Chat Recap

Writers Chat, hosted by Jean Wise, Johnnie Alexander, and Brandy Brow, is the show where we talk about all things writing, by writers and for writers!

“Because talking about writing is more fun than actually doing it.”

Finding Support as a Writer with Tina Yeager

Radio scriptwriters created a character named the Lone Ranger who didn’t actually work alone. George Lucas developed Hans Solo as a hero who was never actually solo. Why couldn’t these characters be written as solitary heroes? Whether or not they know God, observant writers can recognize the relational elements of our divine design. God created us for fellowship, wordsmiths included. Writers might recognize our need for community, but our solitary work can serve as barriers to connection. Join this Writer’s Chat episode to discover how to develop a whole-life network of professional, practical, and spiritual support when you feel isolated. 

Watch the June 20th Replay.

Award-winning author, speaker, and life coach, Tina Yeager hosts the Flourish-Meant podcast devotional. She has been licensed as a counselor since 2005. Look for her books, Upcycled: Crafted for a Purpose and Beautiful Warrior: Finding Victory Over the Lies Formed Against You. Get your free downloadable Upcycled inspirational flip book template at upcycledbook.com. For life coaching services or to book her as an event speaker, visit tinayeager.com.

 Platform vs Community: Do Writers Really Need Them? With Becky Antkowiak

Writer and speaker Becky Antkowiak joins us to talk about the importance of community for writers. Though platform is necessary for marketing purposes, Becky encourages us to remember that we’re here to share God’s message to the one person who needs it most. She compares our need for community to Jesus’ need for community—He surrounded Himself with those who had talents needed for His ministry. Our focus should be on eternity, and our trust should be in God’s perfect timing.

Watch the June 27th replay.

Becky Antkowiak (ant-KO-vee-ack) is a writer, speaker, editor, Compassion International advocate, enthusiastic Grammar Floozy, and is the Chief Encouragement Officer of 540 Writers Community. A lifelong serial extrovert, Becky believes strangers are friends she hasn’t met. Fair warning: make eye contact only if you want a friend for life.

Writers Chat is hosted live each Tuesday for an hour starting at 10 AM CT / 11 AM ET on Zoom. The permanent Zoom room link is: http://zoom.us/j/4074198133

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Writers Chat

Writers Chat Recap for June Part 1

Writers Chat Recap

Writers Chat, hosted by Jean Wise, Johnnie Alexander, and Brandy Brow, is the show where we talk about all things writing, by writers and for writers!

“Because talking about writing is more fun than actually doing it.”

The Blue Ridge Mountains Christian Writers Conference Review

Writers Chat co-host Norma Poore, attended the recent 2023 BRMCWC. Joining her in this episode are four other attendees to share their experiences, both as first-time attendees and multi-time attendees. Find out how attending a conference can benefit your writing journey with both opportunities and friendships.

Watch the June 6th Replay

Norma Poore is an award-winning Christian writer who is passionate about encouraging women in their faith, families, and friendships. After thirty-eight years of marriage, six children, and thirteen grandchildren Norma is still crazy about her knight in shining armor, David. Her favorite thing to do is to cook for and hang out with her large family

Plotting 101: How to Create a Story Readers Can’t Put Down with Crystal Caudill

Crystal presents a comprehensive look at the four-act story structure (which is the three-act structure with the middle act divided into two). She begins with an idea for brainstorming using M&Ms, followed by elements that strengthen our stories. The popular movie Shrek is presented as an excellent example of the four-act structure. Catch the replay of this episode to deepen your understanding of story structure.

Watch the June 13th Replay

Crystal Caudill is the award-winning author of “dangerously good historical romance. She is a stay-at-home mom and caregiver. When not writing, Crystal can be found hanging with her family, drinking hot tea, or reading at her home outside Cincinnati, Ohio. Find out more at crystalcaudill.com.

Writers Chat is hosted live each Tuesday for an hour starting at 10 AM CT / 11 AM ET
on Zoom. The permanent Zoom room link is: http://zoom.us/j/4074198133

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Writers Chat

Writers Chat Recap for May Part 1

Writers Chat, hosted by Jean Wise, Johnnie Alexander, and Brandy Brow, is the show where we talk about all things writing, by writers and for writers!

“Because talking about writing is more fun than actually doing it.”

Do More by Doing Less with Charissa Brim

Does social media frustrate you? Establishing, growing, and maintaining a vibrant social media presence can be a daunting task. Join us as social media manager Charissa Brim shares her three key approaches (professional, sustainable, and strategic) and practical tips for growing and connecting with your audience.

Watch the May 2nd Replay

With a BA in Communication Studies & MA in International Tourism, Charissa Brim loves exploring the spaces around us, between us & within us. Charissa helps others find their voice through her work as a copywriter, social media manager, & advocate. Balancing inspiration & strategy, Charissa supports creatives curating an authentic & rewarding online presence.

 Offer Hope with Inspirational Writing

Julie Lavender shares practical tips for writing inspirational articles, profiles, and devotionals. An inspirational piece is often faith-based, but Julie’s tips also apply to general market. As a long-time writer for her local newspaper, other writing credits on a variety of topics, and interviews of ordinary people who have done extraordinary things. If you aspire to write articles that offer hope, check this week’s replay.

Watch the May 9th Replay

Julie Lavender, author of Children’s Bible Stories for Bedtime (Zeitgeist/Penguin Random House) and 365 Ways to Love Your Child: Turning Little Moments into Lasting Memories (Revell/Baker), looks forward to a mom’s devo releasing this year and two picture books in the next two years from End Game Press and its imprint. You can connect with Julie on social media or at Julie Lavender Writes.

Come Write with Us

Brandy Brow leads us in another writing session with a look at the creative brain versus editor brain and fun creative exercises to stimulate creativity. If you feel your writing is not what it should be sure to check out his week’s replay for great ideas and a writing prompt or two.

Watch the May 16th Replay

Writers Chat is hosted live each Tuesday for an hour starting at 10 AM CT / 11 AM ET on Zoom. The permanent Zoom room link is: http://zoom.us/j/4074198133

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Writers Chat

Writers CHat Recap for April Part Two

Writers Chat Recap

Writers Chat, hosted by Jean Wise, Johnnie Alexander, and Brandy Brow, is the show where we talk about all things writing, by writers and for writers!

“Because talking about writing is more fun than actually doing it.”

Increase Productivity with Flexible Time Blobs and Time Blocking

In this episode of Writers Chat, Patricia Tiffany Morris offers a fresh take on time blocking for increased productivity and mindful planning as we track the writing life. Whether you’re more creative right-brain oriented or organized left-brain focused, why fight with either side? We can discover greater peace when we allow ourselves to work in harmony with flexible yet orderly blocks of time.

Watch the April 18th Replay

Patricia Tiffany Morris is dedicated to bringing order to her life and making space for creativity. She invents geeky ways to wrangle the battling tendencies of her left and right brain endeavors. An award-winning artist, writer, and as an illustrator, tech enthusiast, and font creator, she uses color and mindful planning to increase her daily productivity and find time for a wide variety of pursuits. You can connect with Patricia on social media or at PatriciaTiffanyMorris.com

I Forgot But God Didn’t

Those who know Pam Halter usually equate her with fairies, dragons, and children’s books. But it wasn’t always that way. In fact, there was a time when Pam totally forgot she wanted to be a writer! In this episode of Writers Chat, Pam shares how God brought her back to what He had planned for her all along. If you need encouraging on your writing journey check out the replay.

Watch the April 25th replay.

Pam Halter is a children’s, middle grade, and YA author, but has fallen in love with writing short stories. When she’s not writing, she enjoys quilting, sewing, crafting, cooking, gardening, reading, Bible study, playing the piano, going down the shore (as they say in NJ,) and walking long country roads where she has discovered fairy homes, emerging dragons, and trees eating wood gnomes. It’s also the perfect way for her to enjoy God’s creation while praying and praising Him. You can connect with Pam on social media or at PamHalter.com

Writers Chat is hosted live each Tuesday for an hour starting at 10 AM CT / 11 AM ET
on Zoom. The permanent Zoom room link is: http://zoom.us/j/4074198133

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Writers Chat

Writers Chat Recap for March Part 2

Writers Chat Recap

Writers Chat, hosted by Jean Wise, Johnnie Alexander, and Brandy Brow, is the show where we talk about all things writing, by writers and for writers!

“Because talking about writing is more fun than actually doing it.”

5 Mind-Blowing Insights to Help Writers Show and Not Tell

In this session created exclusively for the Writers Chat, Zena Dell Lowe uses the knowledge she’s gleaned as a story coach to come up with 5 mind-blowing insights to help writers accomplish that oft-eluded goal, Show, Don’t Tell. These tips are so simple that you’ll wonder how you missed them in the first place. But once you hear them out loud, you’ll never forget them. You’ll know exactly how to apply them to your own story, and you’ll be chomping at the bit to get started.

Watch the March 21st Replay

Zena Dell Lowe is a writer, teacher, and podcast host. Her company, The Storyteller’s Mission, offers services and resources to help writers tell excellent stories from a true biblical moral worldview. Find her podcast, The Storyteller’s Mission with Zena Dell Lowe, on YouTube or the podcast app of your choice, or check out her advanced online courses for writers at https://www.thestorytellersmission.com.

3 Easy Ways to Make a Reel with Canva

Award-winning author and Instagram fan Norma Poore shares her tips for using Canva to create eye-catching reels that can be used on Instagram, Tik-Tok, Facebook, and other social media platforms. In this hands-on demonstration, Norma demonstrates how you can use a premade template or create your own by choosing a background, then add text or photos. She also demonstrated how to add music, upload photos and videos. She’s joined by volunteers Stefanie Hutcheson and Rachael Colby, novice Canva users, who create their own reels in real time–with a few little glitches which shows learning-in-progress!

Watch the March 28th replay.

Norma Poore has experienced difficult circumstances, and allows her journey to fuel her encouragement for those who are hurting. Her inspirational nonfiction is penned with honest transparency and filled with hope from God’s Word. She’s an award-winning author and editing manager of Almost an Author. Married for 40+ years, has six children, and thirteen grandchildren. Connect with her on social media or at NormaPoore.com.

Writers Chat is hosted live each Tuesday for an hour starting at 10 AM CT / 11 AM ET
on Zoom. The permanent Zoom room link is: http://zoom.us/j/4074198133

Categories
Writers Chat

Writers Chat Recap for March Part 1

Writers Chat, hosted by Jean Wise, Johnnie Alexander, and Brandy Brow, is the show where we talk about all things writing, by writers and for writers!

“Because talking about writing is more fun than actually doing it.”

Overcoming Imposter Syndrome with Cherrilynn Bisbano

What familiar yet unwanted intruder lurks in the shadows, waiting to pounce on you and kill your idea, along with your spirit? He whispers from the darkness, “You’re not good enough! Everyone sees you’re a phony. Your book idea is garbage.” It’s the same lying voice heard by both new and seasoned authors. IMPOSTER SYNDROME As a professional writing coach, book proposal expert, and speaker at many writing conferences, Cherrilynn Bisbano understands the struggle with imposter syndrome. If you feel inadequate, out of place, anxious, or just plain tired, you’ll hear Cherrilynn share both Biblical and practical tools to defeat this menace and prove, You are not an imposter. You Belong Here!

Watch the March 7th Replay

Cherrilynn Bisbans, an award-winning writer, speaker, and coach. Her desire is to educate, equip, and encourage writers. She’s an expert in Book Proposals and memoirs. As a prayer warrior, she will pray with you and for you. Cherrilynn proudly served in the military. She loves Christ, chocolate, coffee, and cats.

Writers Chat is hosted live each Tuesday for an hour starting at 10 AM CT / 11 AM ET
on Zoom. The permanent Zoom room link is: http://zoom.us/j/4074198133

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Writers Chat

Writers Chat Recap: February Part 1

Writers Chat Recap

Writers Chat, hosted by Jean Wise, Johnnie Alexander, and Brandy Brow, is the show where we talk about all things writing, by writers and for writers!

“Because talking about writing is more fun than actually doing it.”

Ask an Agent Q&A with Bethany Jett

Literary agent Bethany Jett answers our questions about proposals, pitches, and the decision-making process. This behind-the-scenes peek into the submission process provides insight into how one agent evaluates proposals and makes decisions about representation.

Other aspects of the writing industry are also discussed such as writing under a pseudonym, marketing and platform, and proposing a series. Bethany also talks about Twitter Pitch Parties and Query Tracker/QueryManager.

Watch the January 31st replay.

Bethany Jett is an associate literary agent with the C.Y.L.E. agency, as well as a multi-award-winning author, and a marketing strategist who earned top honors in her master’s program, where she earned her MFA in Communications focusing on Marketing and PR. Her motto is “Teach as you go,” which she lives out as the co-owner of Serious Writer, a company that teaches and empowers writers and authors. Bethany is married to her college sweetheart, and together they’re raising 3 teen/tween sons and their Pomeranian Sadie.

Launch Party Lessons

In this episode of Writers Chat, author, M.N. Stroh, and the members of her launch party team: Brandy Brow, Josephine (Jo) Massaro, and Norma Poore, share their experiences planning and participating in the Tale of the Clans Launch Party. From the roles each played to the lessons learned, they offer practical takeaways and best practices for those planning their first book launch party.

Watch the February 7th replay.

The Heart of Writing with Larry J. Leech II

Instead of Samuel L. Jackson asking you “What’s in your wallet?”, what if he asked, “What’s in your heart?” What would you tell him? Your simple answer should explain why you write and why you write what you write. In this Valentine’s Day episode of Writers Chat, veteran editor and writing coach, Larry J. Leech II, plays cardiologist and discusses the importance of a regular heart checkup while on your writing journey.

Watch the February 14th replay.

Writing coach of award-winning authors, Larry J. Leech II has spent more than 40 years working with words. After a journalism career that included 2,300 published articles, Larry started freelance writing and editing in 2004. He has ghostwritten 30 books, edited over 400 manuscripts, and taught at numerous conferences nationwide.

Writers Chat is hosted live each Tuesday for an hour starting at 10 AM CT / 11 AM ET
on Zoom. The permanent Zoom room link is: http://zoom.us/j/4074198133

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Writers Chat

Writers Chat Recap for January Part Two

Writers Chat Recap

Writers Chat, hosted by Jean Wise, Johnnie Alexander, and Brandy Brow, is the show where we talk about all things writing, by writers and for writers!

“Because talking about writing is more fun than actually doing it.”

Writer’s Journey with Sophia L. Henson

Sophia recently signed a contract with Enclave Publishing for her debut novel, shares her writing journey as a “series of encouragement” that began with a love of reading. She went from editing her mother’s autobiography when she was in high school to “editing for food” as a college student. After raising her children, Sophia heard about and participated in National Novel Writing Month (NaNoWriMo), and decided to “make space to write” at least once a year. You are sure to be encouraged by Sophia’s philosophy of writing and the lessons she shares about her own path to publication.

Watch the January 17th Replay

Sophia L Hansen is an author and editor with Havok Publishing and loves to write In Other Worlds. She’s lived on a tiny island in Alaska, the bustling cities of New York and Boston, raised kids in Tennessee and now resides just outside Birmingham, AL. After 30+ years of marriage, seven children, and numerous pets, Sophia still fits into her high school earrings. You can follow Sophia’s words and worlds at https://www.sophialhansen.com/, Facebook, and Instagram.

Book Chat: Word Painting

In this Writers Chat episode, the team gathers for another fantastic Book Chat, this time on Rebecca McClanahan’s Word Painting. We touched on highlights from this insightful work which breaks down the process of describing the setting, scene, characters, and so much more, into its many facets. Each lesson comes with practical exercises that we know will help fiction and nonfiction writers learn to write more descriptively.

Watch the January 24th replay.

Writers Chat is hosted live each Tuesday for an hour starting at 10 AM CT / 11 AM ET
on Zoom. The permanent Zoom room link is: http://zoom.us/j/4074198133

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Writers Chat

Writers Chat Recap for January Part 1

Writers Chat Recap

Writers Chat, hosted by Jean Wise, Johnnie Alexander, and Brandy Brow, is the show where we talk about all things writing, by writers and for writers!

“Because talking about writing is more fun than actually doing it.”

Featuring:

Resources and Tools for Writers

Jean Wise and Johnnie Alexander host our first episode of 2023. Johnnie confesses to her Luddite tendencies while Jean keeps us firmly planted in the 21st century by talking about AI possibilities. Johnnie opens up Evernote and an Excel worksheet to show how to keep track of a to-do list and other essentials of the writing business. Jeanie gives examples of AI generated answers to specific questions and shared how AI can spark story/article ideas, plots, characters, etc. Patricia Tiffany Morris gave a spontaneous demonstration of BoredHuman.com.

Watch the January 3rd Replay

Writers Chat Wish List for 2023

Our wish list contains 5Cs ~ Caring, Challenge, Community, Creativity, Curiosity. How can you, as a writer, be inspired to grow in these areas during the upcoming year? What practical steps can you take to care for yourself and others, engage in various challenges (such as writing a haiku a day), participate in community (and make new friends!), enhance your creativity, and follow your curiosity? The Writers Chat team shares ideas and resources that will enhance your writing journey. Start off the New Year with plans and goals for living a 5C lifestyle.

Watch the January 10th replay.

Writers Chat is hosted live each Tuesday for an hour starting at 10 AM CT / 11 AM ET
on Zoom. The permanent Zoom room link is: http://zoom.us/j/4074198133

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Writers Chat

Writers Chat Recap for November Part 2

Writers Chat Recap

Writers Chat, hosted by Jean Wise, Johnnie Alexander, and Brandy Brow, is the show where we talk about all things writing, by writers and for writers!

“Because talking about writing is more fun than actually doing it.”

Featuring…

Detours in Writing

As writers we often face detours in the writing journey. Whether it’s a project derailed from an intended goal, setting out to write in one genre then turning to another, or life circumstances that pull us away from writing altogether. In this episode of Writers Chat, co-hosts Norma Poore, Brandy Brow, and Melissa Stroh, share the detours they each faced in their writing along with a timely truth: Be attentive to detours. Oftentimes, God uses them as a means to protect you, mature you, or bring about unexpected blessings.

Watch the November 15st replay.

Writers Chat is hosted live each Tuesday for an hour starting at 10 AM CT / 11 AM ET
on Zoom. The permanent Zoom room link is: http://zoom.us/j/4074198133

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Writers Chat

Writers Chat Recap For October Part 1

Writers Chat Recap

Writers Chat, hosted by Jean Wise, Johnnie Alexander, and Brandy Brow, is the show where we talk about all things writing, by writers and for writers!

“Because talking about writing is more fun than actually doing it.”

Featuring…

Canva for Beginners with Norma Poore

In this episode, Norma, a member of the Writer Chat Admin Team, demonstrates how easy it is to use Canva to create Twitter posts, Instagram reels, and other social media content. Sharing her screen, Norma walks us through the steps of using templates, adding text and music, uploading our own photos and videos, and including our own personal watermarks. We also discuss hacks for resizing images for those who don’t have the Pro version, and Norma demonstrated how easy it is to purchase a single Pro element. For more information and resources, check out this week’s replay.

Watch the October 11th replay.

Norma Poore has lived through difficult circumstances, and now allows her journey to fuel her encouragement for those who are hurting. Her inspirational nonfiction is penned with honest transparency and filled with hope from God’s Word. As a respected member of the publishing community she’s an award-winning author, and editing manager of Almost an Author. Married for 40+ years, has six children, and eleven grandchildren. Connect with her on social media or at NormaPoore.com.

Writers Chat is hosted live each Tuesday for an hour starting at 10 AM CT / 11 AM ET
on Zoom. The permanent Zoom room link is: http://zoom.us/j/4074198133

Categories
Writers Chat

Writers Chat Recap for August, Part 1

Writers Chat Recap

Writers Chat, hosted by Jean Wise, Johnnie Alexander, and Brandy Brow, is the show where we talk about all things writing, by writers and for writers!

“Because talking about writing is more fun than actually doing it.”

Crowdfunding for Writers with C. Hope Clark

Crowdfunding may sound mysterious and daunting, but it’s actually a forthright and practical way to raise the money you need for expenses such as editing and a cover design. C. Hope Clark, provides a comprehensive overview and explains the benefits of using a crowdfunding campaign not just to raise funds but also as a way to gain a loyal following. For more information and resources see this week’s replay link below.

Watch the August 2nd Replay

C. Hope Clark is founder of FundsforWriters.com, a website designated by Writer’s Digest as one of the 101 Best Websites for Writers for 21 consecutive years. The site’s free weekly newsletter contains contests, grants, markets, and publishers/agents. She’s published in Writer’s Digest, Writer’s Market, and in Writer’s Magazine (UK), just to name a few. She’s an award-winning author of three series, the most popular being the Edisto Island Mysteries. Her latest novel, Edisto Heat, released May 31. Visit Hope at www.chopeclark.com and www.fundsforwriters.com.

 

Conquering the Query Letter with Tracy Crump

In this episode of Writers Chat, award-winning author, Tracy Crump, shares how you can take that riveting article or fascinating book idea and convince a busy editor, who receives thousands of submissions every month, to publish your work. Oh, boy! Tracy takes us step by step on how to write a cover letter that will encourage an editor or publisher to open your submission and persuade them to publish your prose.

Watch the August 9th replay.

Tracy Crump dispenses hope in her award-winning book, Health, Healing, and Wholeness: Devotions of Hope in the Midst of Illness, based on her nursing and caregiving experiences. Her writing appears in multiple publications, but she is best known for contributing 22 stories to Chicken Soup for the Soul, which makes her course on writing for them one of Serious Writer’s top sellers. She teaches writing workshops, proofreads, and is an editor. Tracy and her husband, Stan, live in north Mississippi and dote on five completely unspoiled grandchildren. You can connect with her at TracyCrump.Com or on social medial.

Writers Chat is hosted live each Tuesday for an hour starting at 10 AM CT / 11 AM ET
on Zoom. The permanent Zoom room link is: http://zoom.us/j/4074198133