Most writers think they’re ready for editing. Most manuscripts say otherwise.

In this episode of The Editor’s Half Hour, Nadia Geagea Pupa explores one of the most misunderstood—and often skipped—stages of the editorial process: manuscript evaluations, alongside Steph Thompson. This conversation gets to the core of what writers actually need before line editing begins. Steph shares how she approaches evaluations from a big-picture perspective, helping writers understand what’s working, what’s not, and how to move forward with clarity and confidence.

Together, they break down what a manuscript evaluation is—and what it isn’t—along with how editors assess structure, pacing, clarity, and overall story flow. The conversation also addresses the balance between honest critique and constructive guidance, the common issues that show up across manuscripts, and what a strong evaluation actually looks like in terms of deliverables.

They also get into the business side of this work—how to set boundaries, manage client expectations, and price manuscript evaluations in a way that reflects their value.

Manuscript evaluations sit at a critical decision point in the publishing process. Done well, they can save writers time, money, and frustration by providing direction before deeper editing begins. This episode offers a clear look into how editors think at this stage—and why clarity always comes before correction.

Visit www.inkandinsightwordsmithery.com to learn more about Steph’s freelance business.

Connect with her on LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/stephanie-thompson-editor

substack.com/@inkandinsightwordsmithery

Find her on Instagram: @ink_and_insight_wordsmithery

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In this episode of The Editor’s Half Hour, I’m joined by Tia Ross to talk about the realities behind one of the most misunderstood professions in publishing. At the center of our conversation is her book, "So You Want to Be an Editor... But Can You Edit?," which challenges the idea that editing is a casual or easily acquired skill.

Tia breaks down what it actually takes to do this work well—from technical knowledge and critical thinking to discipline, judgment, and accountability. We also dig into a critical issue in today’s landscape: the consequences of an unregulated industry. When writers don’t do their due diligence in choosing an editor, the impact can be significant.

Poor editing doesn’t just affect the quality of a manuscript—it can compromise clarity, credibility, and the author’s long-term success. At the same time, editors who take on work without the proper skill set risk damaging their professional reputation and the trust placed in them.

Tia speaks candidly about this shared responsibility—on both sides. This episode is also a reminder that editing is not static. Strong editors stay informed. They continue learning. They refine their skills over time and remain aware of evolving standards, tools, and expectations within the industry.

Being an editor isn’t about claiming the title. It’s about consistently earning it.

Purchase Tia’s book: https://tiarosseditor.com/be-an-editor/

Visit the organization she started: https://blackeditorsproofreaders.com/

Connect with Tia on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tia-ross-editor/

To learn more about Tia and the services she provides, visit her website at www.tiarosseditor.com

In this episode, I interviewed Barbara Gastel about the evolving field of medical editing—and the persistent myths that keep talented editors from stepping into it.

Barbara is the author of "Medical Editing: A Guide for Authors and Editors," published by the University of Chicago Press. Drawing on decades of experience in science and medical communication, she offers a grounded, practical look at what medical editors actually do, how they enter the profession, and why there is no single “correct” background for the role.

One of the most important takeaways from this conversation: you do not need a health science degree to succeed in medical editing. While subject-matter knowledge can be valuable, the profession benefits from editors with diverse training—journalism, English, publishing, research, and beyond. Strong editorial judgment, clarity of thought, ethical awareness, and respect for evidence are what truly matter.

We also discuss:

- The core responsibilities of medical editors

- How medical editing differs from other editorial niches

- The ethical considerations unique to medical and scientific publishing

- Practical advice for editors curious about entering this space

This episode is both an invitation and a reality check. Medical editing is rigorous. It carries responsibility. But it is also deeply meaningful work—work that shapes how research is communicated and how information reaches clinicians, policymakers, and the public. If you’ve ever wondered whether you belong in medical editing, this conversation may expand your thinking.

Leave a review or share this episode with your fellow editors!

Check out other episodes of The Editor’s Half Hour: piquepublishing.com/podcast

Connect with me on Instagram: @Editors_Half_Hour

Subscribe to my newsletter: tinyurl.com/EditorsHalfHour

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