The Midland Authors presents a “How-To” Panel Discussion:
After the First Book Contract
featuring Ruth Spiro, Greg Borzo, Sharon Woodhouse, and Walter Podrazik
Tuesday, February 10, 2026, 7 p.m.
Virtual session. Zoom link: https://uic.zoom.us/j/82586263133?pwd=3ufMrLJdY8Byp8my6PpDOCbt0e627D.1
Free and open to all.
Congratulations: You signed your book contract. Now what? Participating in the publishing process? Marketing? Branding for more books? These pros offer suggestions to help you build a winning book writing career.
Ruth Spiro has authored more than 30 children’s books, with over one million copies sold worldwide. Her bestselling Baby Loves Science board books are groundbreaking, introducing big ideas to the littlest listeners. She frequently speaks at schools and conferences, previously appearing in Spotlight Chicago, Windy City Live, LA Times Festival of Books, World Science Festival, and more.
Greg Borzo is an award-winning journalist who has worked as a business editor, science writer, and news officer. He is now working on his ninth book, Uncovering the South Loop. Earlier books include Lost Restaurants of Chicago, Where to Bike Chicago, The Chicago “L,” and Chicago’s Fabulous Fountains. He conducts tours and presentations about—what else?—Chicago!
Sharon Woodhouse owns Conspire Creative, a book business agency offering coaching and consulting for authors and indie publishers. Former founder of award-winning Lake Claremont Press, she specializes in helping authors build holistic, income-generating businesses through strategic partnerships, creative marketing, and entrepreneurial thinking. She writes about author business development and publishing on Substack and in her book, The Profitable Author.
Walter Podrazik, moderator, is an educator, consultant, and curator at the Museum of Broadcast Communications in Chicago. He is also co-author with Harry Castleman of eight books on popular culture including Watching TV American Television Season by Season, now in its fourth edition.