See Jane Write Collective member Cherith Fluker has had quite a year. Her blog, WhatCherithInks, won awards from Alabama Media Professionals and the National Federation of Press Women. Her career as a freelance travel writer is flourishing, and she published her first book — Secret Birmingham: A Guide to the Weird, Wonderful, and Obscure (Reedy Press). And she’s done all of this while working full time in the field of education. So it seemed only right to catch up with Cherith for our next Keeping Up with the Janes feature. Keeping Up with the Janes is a new feature that allows us to revisit past See Jane Write Collective Members of the Month to see what they’re up to now. Let’s learn the secrets of Cherith’s success.
Tell us more about your book and how it came to be.
Secret Birmingham: A Guide to the Weird, Wonderful, and Obscure grew out of years of curiosity and childhood desire to write a book. Over the past few years, I’ve focused my travel writing on the places people overlook. You know, the hidden staircases, the historic markers you drive past every day, the stories locals know but don’t always think to share. Over time, those stories started piling up on my blog and in my notes app. Eventually, I reached out to a publisher and pitched an idea. After a bit of back-and-forth, we decided on a topic and the book was born. It’s part history book, part field guide, and very much rooted in my belief that you don’t have to leave home to feel a sense of discovery.
How did you use your blog to break into freelancing?
My blog, WhatCherithinks, became my living portfolio. Instead of pitching hypothetical ideas, I could use actual blog posts to show editors exactly how I wrote, the kinds of stories I told, and most importantly, that I could publish consistently. The blog helped me find my voice, understand my audience, and build credibility long before I pitched an editor. Over time, pitches became easier because I already had proof of concept and readership.
For anyone reading this who’s interested in doing travel writing, how should they get started?
Start where you are. You don’t need a passport stamp or a luxury stay to be a travel writer. Write about day trips, hometown gems, and meaningful experiences close to home. Focus on storytelling over perfection, and publish consistently, whether that’s on a blog, Substack, or social media. Read the publications you admire, study their voice, and pitch intentionally. Most importantly, don’t wait for permission to call yourself a writer. If you’re writing, you’re already doing the work. Pro Tip: Patience is truly a virtue. I’m getting opportunities now based on pitches I sent and relationships I built several years ago.
How are you balancing all of this with your full-time job?
Sometimes I have to pause and ask myself that question.
I’m highly organized and keep a very full calendar. I’ve also learned to treat my writing like a business, not a hobby. That means blocking dedicated time, setting clear boundaries, and being honest about what I can realistically take on. Some seasons are fuller than others. Honestly, I believe my full-time role has strengthened my writing. The same skills that help me succeed in my 9–to–5, such as time management, prioritization, and follow-through, are the exact skills that carry me through my 5–to–9.
How has See Jane Write helped you on your writing journey?
See Jane Write gives me community, collaboration, and confidence. It has helped me better understand the business. Being in spaces with other women writers who are honest and transparent about their experiences makes the journey feel possible and keeps me motivated to move toward my writing goals. I love having built-in thought partners, cheerleaders, and thoughtful critics. I love the Janes. We show up for one another and support each other in truly beautiful ways.
What’s next for you, and what are your writing goals for 2026?
In 2026, I want to expand my reach while staying rooted in the kind of storytelling I love—place-based, reflective, and accessible. I’m focused on growing my freelance portfolio, exploring another book idea and another column, and continuing to build community through speaking, workshops, and events. My biggest goal is sustainability: writing consistently, earning well, and leaving space to actually enjoy the places and the life I’m writing about.
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