I’m Maryan Pelland, a working writer, editor, and mentor who has earned a very good living from words for more many decades—and retired comfortably because of it. I focus on outstanding stories and real relationships with readers, not tricks, gimmicks, or gamey follower counts.
Pen2Profit on Substack is my free weekly strategy letter for serious, often seasoned writers who want their work to pay well and stay true to their voice. If you care about craft, integrity, and building a writing business that actually fits your life, you’re in the right place.
What you get here (for free)
When you subscribe here on Substack, you’ll receive:
One focused email a week with real, tried‑and‑true strategies I used to earn as a professional writer for decades.
Candid stories from the trenches—what worked, what didn’t, and how to avoid the noise.
Roundups of real writer markets, tools, and ideas to help you earn more and grow your audience organically.
My promise: I will not waste your time. You’ll get practical advice, not empty “write every day and manifest it” platitudes.
Where the deeper help lives
All of my courses, in‑depth trainings, templates, and member‑only resources live on my main site, Pen2Profit. That’s where you’ll find the Pen2Profit Academy—an annual membership that brings everything together in one place.
Inside the Academy, you get:
My deep-dive flagship course, Write-Earn-Repeat, included. ($179 value)
Step‑by‑step training on building and growing a sustainable writing business.
Detailed lessons, downloads, and tools that go beyond what I can fit into a newsletter.
Support designed specifically for mature writers who want to turn experience and skill into dependable income. In-depth articles not available elsewhere.
Think of it this way: Substack is where you get the weekly nudge and big ideas, and the Pen2Profit Academy on my site is where you roll up your sleeves and implement.
Who I am (and why I do this)
I sold my first professional writing at 16, convincing an editor at The (Chicago) Daily Herald to let me run a weekly teen section. Since then I’ve written for major newspapers and magazines (including the Chicago Tribune and Tampa Tribune), digital publications, a variety of niche outlets, and a stack of books as both author and ghostwriter.
I’ve also:
Served as editor‑in‑chief of a weekly newspaper.
Built and marketed subscription‑based websites.
Earned professional credentials, including a certification in Professional Ghostwriting from CalState.
Taught writing online and in real life.
I love working with burgeoning and returning writers who want to make money writing without burning out or selling out. Ask me questions. I’m generous with answers.
When I’m not writing or helping writers, I’m with my 15 grandchildren or making pottery in my basement. I don’t have a dog, I don’t love cats, and I almost never walk on the beach.
What you can expect as a reader
A spam‑free, ad‑free reading experience in your inbox.
Real‑life, profitable writing and editing advice you can apply immediately.
A community of people who care about quality writing and sustainable success.
If you want thoughtful, experienced guidance on turning your writing into income—without losing your soul in the process—subscribe for free here, then head over to the Pen2Profit website to explore the Academy and deeper resources.
