WELCOME & THANK YOU

Thank you for wanting to share your story as part of The 40 Portal project! Your voice matters, and I'm honored you're considering contributing to this intergenerational conversation.

Before you submit your story, please read through these guidelines so you know exactly how your contribution might be used and what rights you have in the process.

HOW YOUR STORY MIGHT BE USED

The Book Project: Your story may be included in my upcoming book "The 40 Portal" and any future editions, including:

  • Print editions (hardcover, paperback)

  • E-book versions

  • Audiobook versions (read by professional narrator)

  • International translations

  • Special/anniversary editions

Book Promotion & Marketing: Excerpts from your story might be used in:

  • Social media posts (with your preferred name attribution)

  • Blog posts and newsletter content

  • Podcast interviews and speaking events

  • Media interviews and press coverage

  • Book launch events and readings

  • Website content and marketing materials

Future Projects: Your story might also be considered for:

  • Companion books or workbooks

  • Workshop or course materials

  • Documentary or film adaptation (if it ever happens!)

  • Academic or research purposes

YOUR NAME & PRIVACY CHOICES

You have three options for how your name appears:

  1. Full Name: Your first and last name will be used with your story

  2. First Name Only: Only your first name (and age/location if you provide them)

  3. Anonymous: Your story appears with no identifying information

You can specify your preference when you submit, and you can change your mind anytime before publication by emailing me.

What we'll never share without permission:

  • Your contact information

  • Any details you mark as "private" or "off the record"

  • Your location more specific than city/state

  • Any identifying details if you choose anonymous

EDITORIAL PROCESS

Light Editing: I may make minor edits for:

  • Length (if your story needs to be shortened)

  • Clarity (fixing typos, grammar)

  • Flow (making it read smoothly with other stories)

Your Approval: If your story is selected for the book, I'll send you the edited version for approval before publication. You'll have the chance to:

  • Suggest changes

  • Approve the final version

  • Withdraw your story if you change your mind

Selection Process: Not every story will make it into the final book due to space and thematic considerations. If your story isn't selected, I'll let you know, and you keep all rights to your story.

LEGAL PERMISSIONS

By submitting your story, you're agreeing that:

  • This is your original story based on your own experiences

  • You have the right to share this story (it's not copyrighted elsewhere)

  • You give me permission to use your story in the ways described above

  • You understand there's no payment/compensation for contributing

  • You won't hold me responsible if your story isn't selected for the book

  • You understand this is a creative project, not professional therapy or advice

What you keep:

  • You still own your story and can share it elsewhere

  • You can use your own story in your own writing projects

  • You can tell people about your experience with this project

International Contributors: The same terms apply regardless of where you live, and the book may be published in other countries.

COMPENSATION & RECOGNITION

No Payment: This is a collaborative project, and there's no payment for contributing stories. Think of it like contributing to a community conversation rather than freelance writing.

Recognition: Contributors will be acknowledged in the book's acknowledgments section (unless you prefer to remain completely anonymous).

YOUR RIGHTS & PROTECTIONS

You can always:

  • Ask me to remove your story from consideration

  • Change your mind about name attribution

  • Request updates on the project status

  • Ask questions about how your story might be used

I promise to:

  • Treat your story with respect and care

  • Honor your privacy preferences

  • Keep you updated on major project milestones

  • Give you final approval on any edited version

If something goes wrong: If you ever feel uncomfortable with how your story is being used, email me immediately and we'll work it out.

QUESTIONS & CONTACT

Before You Submit: If you have any questions about these terms, email me at catherinezackwriter@gmail.com and I'm happy to clarify anything.

After You Submit: If your contribution is being considered for inclusion in my book, I will be in touch with you via the email you submitted (please ensure your contact info is up to date!).

Timeline: The book is currently in development, with publication details forthcoming. I'll keep all contributors updated on progress.

THE BOTTOM LINE

This project is about creating authentic conversations between women across generations. Your story is a gift to other women who will read it and feel less alone in their experiences.

By contributing, you're joining a community of women who believe in the power of sharing our truths, our questions, and our wisdom.

Thank you for being part of this journey.

Ready to share your story? You can do so HERE.

Still have questions? Email me at catherinezackwriter@gmail.com - I'd love to hear from you.

Last updated: 9.8.2025.This page will be updated if any terms change, and all contributors will be notified of changes.