Hey there, it's Yulia Denisyuk, and I'm excited to talk about one of the biggest challenges aspiring travel photographers and writers face when trying to break into the industry. I've worked in this space for over six years, collaborating with publications like National Geographic, The New York Times, and Lonely Planet. My platform, Travel Media Lab, is dedicated to helping people achieve their goals in this industry. One of the most common things I hear from people is that they've never been published, which often leads to them feeling overwhelmed and unsure of how to approach publications. Many people believe they don't have the right background or education to succeed in this industry and are afraid of being rejected or ignored. However, I'm here to tell you that in 2023, that mindset no longer makes sense. The industry has changed, and more publications than ever are open to working with new writers and photographers who have never been published. It's no longer necessary to belong to a secret club to break into the industry. In this episode, I share my experience and offer practical advice on how to break into the industry. I encourage listeners to take action and start reaching out to publications with fresh ideas and pitches. With the right guidance and support, anyone can succeed in this industry. I'm excited to announce that enrollment in our program, Introduction to Travel Journalism, which offers support and guidance, will open soon. Join me to learn more about how you can start your journey as a published travel photographer or writer.