{"title":"Thoughtful Picks: Writing Gifts Under $100","description":"\u003cp\u003ePerfect for the writer who's ready to explore a new craft technique or genre. These focused Zoom seminars and one-day workshops deliver expert guidance and actionable insights in a single session—ideal for busy creatives or anyone looking to gift inspiration without a long-term commitment.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat's included:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOne-day Zoom seminars with acclaimed authors\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFocused craft workshops on specific techniques\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eQuick-start sessions for new writing projects\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePerfect for exploring new genres or sharpening specific skills\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eGive the gift of creative momentum this holiday season.\u003c\/p\u003e","products":[{"product_id":"the-modern-gothic-making-haunted-fictions-for-the-21st-century-workshop-with-amber-sparks","title":"The Modern Gothic: Making Haunted Fictions for the 21st Century Zoom Seminar with Amber Sparks on Saturday, November 14th, 2026","description":"\u003ch2\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eSaturday, November 14th, 2026\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eLive seminar via Zoom 10AM – 1PM Central\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003eThis class will be recorded if you cannot attend live.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAny questions about this class? Use the Chat Button (lower left) to talk with us. \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eInstructor Amber Sparks is the author of the novel, \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003eHappy People Don’t Live Here\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cspan\u003e, and a forthcoming short story collection, \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003eDid Parents in the Middle Ages Love Their Children? \u003c\/em\u003e\u003cspan\u003e(both from Liveright\/W.W. Norton), and four collections of short fiction, including \u003c\/span\u003e\u003ci\u003eAnd I Do Not Forgive You: Revenges and other Stories\u003c\/i\u003e\u003cspan\u003e and \u003c\/span\u003e\u003ci\u003eThe Unfinished World\u003c\/i\u003e\u003cspan\u003e. Her fiction and essays have appeared in \u003c\/span\u003e\u003ci\u003eAmerican Short Fiction, the Paris Review, Slate, Tin House, Granta, The Cut,\u003c\/i\u003e\u003cspan\u003e and elsewhere.  \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eEveryone loves a good ghost story. But much like spotting a ghost in the modern world, it's trickier than it seems.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHow can you use the tricks, conventions, and tools that writers from Henry James to MR James to Shirley Jackson made standard, while writing something that's fresh, new, and thoroughly modern?\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWe'll study the conventions of the gothic story, look at modern ghost stories by writers like Brian Evenson and Carmen Maria Machado and others, and use fun prompts and games to get your brain into gothic mode.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYou'll leave with a story draft that's definitely gothic - whether your ghosts are scary, sad, sweet, or funny is up to you.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCan't Make It Live\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eNo problem! The session will be recorded and available to watch after the seminar concludes.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTAKE THIS CLASS IF\u003c\/strong\u003e:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eYou're finding the constraints of your current writing practice too limiting.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eYou want exposure to a range of new approaches to bring to your writing practice.\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eYou want an expanded sense of what is possible in your work.\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTESTIMONIALS:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"\"\u003e\"\u003cem\u003eI took Amber's Modern Gothic class on a whim after seeing Amber mention it on Twitter. It exceeded my expectations. I come from a very traditional educational background and found Amber's perspective quite refreshing and very useful for my work in progress. Really this class blew my mind. It as exactly the espresso shot my private writing practice needed. I really appreciated the concrete craft lessons. I am at a stage of writing where this is exactly what I need\u003c\/em\u003e.\"\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"\"\u003e\"\u003cem\u003eOne of the more creative workshops I have ever taken. Amber Sparks really got me to think in different and creative ways. It was the right class at the right time for me.\u003c\/em\u003e\"\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"\"\u003e\"\u003cem\u003eI really enjoyed Amber Sparks' workshop on Fractured Narrative! Great list of possible approaches to non-linear story-telling with helpful references to specific author's works as examples. Good exercises. Really enjoyed the chat input from other attendees as well. Great value for the price.\u003c\/em\u003e\"\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"\"\u003e\"\u003cem\u003eThis class was great. From the powerpoint slides, examples, fun exercises, very short stories to read during class, and Amber's friendly responsiveness in the chat and of course her expertise, I would highly recommend studying with Amber!\u003c\/em\u003e\"\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"\"\u003e\"\u003cem\u003eThis was very good. The prompts and the mini-workshop were great. This was my first course. So far, so good. Easy to register and you are very responsive.\u003c\/em\u003e\"\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eONLINE COURSE STRUCTURE\u003c\/strong\u003e: \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThis class will meet via Zoom on Saturday, November 14th, 2026, from 10AM - 1PM CST\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003ePAYMENT OPTIONS\u003c\/strong\u003e:\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eTuition is $99 USD. You can pay for the course in full \u003ci\u003e or\u003c\/i\u003e use Affirm to pay over time with equal Monthly Payments. Both options are available at checkout.\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cul data-rte-list=\"default\"\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eAmber Sparks | Live via Zoom\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSaturday, November 14th, 2026\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eLive seminar via Zoom 10AM – 1PM Central\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eTuition is $99 USD. \u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSeminar is fully ONLINE and meets via Zoom\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Writing Workshops Org","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":43183612297464,"sku":"","price":99.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0287\/3917\/4532\/files\/TheModernGothicMakingHauntedFictionsforthe21stCenturyZoomSeminarwithAmberSparks.png?v=1748029608"},{"product_id":"building-a-characters-interiority-through-memory-a-zoom-seminar-with-karen-e-bender","title":"Building Interiority in Characters: Writing Memory with Karen E. Bender, a Zoom Seminar on Tuesday, April 7th, 2026","description":"\u003cdiv class=\"sqs-block html-block sqs-block-html\" data-block-type=\"2\" id=\"block-0c22edf6c5f4ee9d89a4\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"sqs-block-content\"\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eLive Seminar Via Zoom Tuesday, April 7th, 2026\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe class will meet 7PM - 9:00PM EST\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"sqs-block-content\"\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eAny questions about this class? Use the Chat Button to talk with us. \u003c\/strong\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"\"\u003e\u003cbr\u003eTaught by Karen E. Bender, author of two collections: \u003cem\u003eRefund\u003c\/em\u003e, which was a Finalist for the National Book Award, shortlisted for the Frank O'Connor International Story Prize, and Longlisted for the Story prize, and \u003cem\u003eThe New Order\u003c\/em\u003e, which was Longlisted for the Story prize. Her newest collection is \u003cem\u003eThe Words of Dr. L \u0026amp; Other Stories\u003c\/em\u003e (May 2025). Karen's novels are \u003cem\u003eLike Normal People\u003c\/em\u003e and \u003cem\u003eA Town of Empty Rooms\u003c\/em\u003e. Her fiction has appeared in \u003cem\u003eThe New Yorker, Granta, Ploughshares, Zoetrope, The Yale Review, The Harvard Review, Story, Guernica\u003c\/em\u003e, and others, have been reprinted in \u003cem\u003eBest American Short Stories\u003c\/em\u003e and \u003cem\u003eBest American Mystery\u003c\/em\u003e stories and won three Pushcart prizes.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"background-color: white;\"\u003eGet to know Karen in our \u003ca title=\"Meet the Teaching Artist with Karen E. Bender\" href=\"https:\/\/writingworkshops.com\/blogs\/news\/meet-the-teaching-artist-building-interiority-with-karen-e-bender\" target=\"_blank\"\u003e\u003cem\u003eMeet the Teaching Artist\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e series.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"\"\u003eBuilding a character’s interiority consists of many elements, including a character’s memory. How do you use a character’s memories to help build their interior world? \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eIn this generative seminar, we will look at stories by Tillie Olsen, Tobias Wolff, Jhumpa Lahiri, and Anthony Veasna So to see how they incorporate character’s processing of the past into their stories, building a character’s interiority through what they choose to remember of the past, and how memories connect to action. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eWe will spend the first hour discussing the stories and the second-hour doing writing exercises.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"sqs-block-content\"\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e \u003cstrong\u003eCan't Make It Live?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan\u003eNo problem! The session will be recorded and available to watch after the seminar concludes.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"sqs-block-content\"\u003e\n\u003cem\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"sqs-block-content\"\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eCOURSE TAKEAWAYS\u003c\/strong\u003e:\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"sqs-block-content\"\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eThrough close reading of stories, learn different ways that writers use memories as a way to access the interior worlds of their characters\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eLearn how memory connects with action in stories.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eDevelop a character through memory via writing prompts.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eLearn one element of interiority as a way to develop characters.\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCOURSE EXPECTATIONS: \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWe'll review the different ways authors use memory to build interiority in a story and then write generative exercises to practice these methods. Students should come to class ready to write and will have opportunities to share work if they would like. Students will leave the class with various techniques they can use to convey interiority through character memory.\u003cstrong\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTESTIMONIALS:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\"\u003cem\u003eThis seminar exceeded my expectations. I loved going through the different types of story openings that exist and then seeing clear-cut examples of each from the materials that were shared in class. Karen is a fantastic facilitator!\u003c\/em\u003e\" -Alexandra Y.\u003cstrong\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\"\u003cem\u003eClass was excellent and exceeded my expectations. I found Karen's approach of writing an opening that set up two questions extremely valuable. Five of five stars\u003c\/em\u003e.\" -Diane K.\u003cstrong\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\"\u003cem\u003eI though Karen gave great input on our exercises. I would highly recommend this seminar! I learned so much.\u003c\/em\u003e\" -former student\u003cstrong\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\"\u003cem\u003eThe close reading of the texts was extremely valuable. Karen is a great teacher, and I though this was a great seminar on strategies for story beginnings.\u003c\/em\u003e\" -former student\u003cstrong\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e\"I found Karen's teaching so valuable. She dives right in and I love her style. I signed up for her other seminars after I took this one. Thank you!\" \u003c\/em\u003e-former student\u003cstrong\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e\"In her seminars, Karen always offer such specific techniques, which has helped me deepen my understanding of craft and benefited my writing practice. Thank you!\"\u003c\/em\u003e -former student\u003cstrong\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e\"Karen's class taught me invaluable writing techniques that I missed because I have a JD instead of an MFA. This was so great! Thank you, Karen!\"\u003c\/em\u003e -former student\u003cstrong\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e\"I loved the structure of understanding various story openings and emphasis on goals for first paragraphs. This class definitely exceeded my expectations.\" \u003c\/em\u003e-former student\u003cstrong\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e\"It was great. I was working on a rewrite, came to the realization that I needed more interiority, saw this class, jumped on it, and I've already used some of the techniques. The concepts and ideas that were coupled with good, well-paced exercises.\" \u003c\/em\u003e-former student\u003cstrong\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e\"This class helps all levels of writers get better access to the all-important matter of characters. Highly recommend.\"\u003c\/em\u003e -former student\u003cstrong\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\"\u003cem\u003eI signed up for Karen E. Bender's Writing Memory seminar and I loved the class. She had a great presentation and got into the topic right away. No wasted time. A very thorough class that will help me build my character's interiority\u003c\/em\u003e.\" -former student.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e\"What a fantastic person! I liked her style, her content, and her drive for us to get the most out of 2 hours. Karen really pointed out a fantastic technique and her enthusiasm is infectious. I just wanted more time with her!\" \u003c\/em\u003e-former student\u003cstrong\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e\"Exceeded expectations. Lots of content, practice, plus interaction packed into Zoom.\" \u003c\/em\u003e-former student\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eONLINE COURSE STRUCTURE:\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"sqs-block-content\"\u003eLive Seminar Via Zoom on Tuesday, August 5th, 2025. Can't Make It Live? No problem! The session will be recorded and available to watch after the seminar concludes.\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"sqs-block-content\"\u003e\n\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003ePAYMENT OPTIONS\u003c\/strong\u003e:\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003eYou can pay for the course in full \u003ci\u003e or\u003c\/i\u003e use Shop Pay or Affirm to pay over time with equal Monthly Payments. These options are available at checkout.\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cul data-rte-list=\"default\"\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eInstructor: Karen E. Bender\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eLive Seminar Via Zoom on Tuesday, April 7th, 2026\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e7PM - 9PM EST\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCan't Make It Live? No problem! The session will be recorded and available to watch after the seminar concludes.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eContact us \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/writingworkshops.com\/pages\/contact\" title=\"Contact\" target=\"_blank\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHERE\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e if you have any questions about this seminar.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"sqs-block html-block sqs-block-html\" data-block-type=\"2\" id=\"block-51a8238b2f73df2e52ed\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"sqs-block-content\"\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"\"\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Writing Workshops Org","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":43717537497336,"sku":"","price":99.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0287\/3917\/4532\/files\/Karen_Bender_Headshot_0f28a25c-9ca9-451d-9526-202ab68f3154.png?v=1736023512"},{"product_id":"building-interiority-in-characters-with-fantasies-and-theories-with-karen-e-bender","title":"Building Interiority in Characters Using Fantasies and Theories with Karen E. Bender, a Zoom Seminar on Wednesday, April 22nd, 2026","description":"\u003cdiv id=\"block-0c22edf6c5f4ee9d89a4\" data-block-type=\"2\" class=\"sqs-block html-block sqs-block-html\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"sqs-block-content\"\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eLive Seminar Via Zoom Wednesday, April 22nd, 2026\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe class will meet 7PM - 9:00PM EST\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\n\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"sqs-block-content\"\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eAny questions about this class? Use the Chat Button to talk with us. \u003c\/strong\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"\"\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003eTaught by Karen E. Bender, author of three collections: \u003cem\u003eRefund\u003c\/em\u003e, which was a Finalist for the National Book Award, shortlisted for the Frank O'Connor International Story Prize, and Longlisted for the Story prize; \u003cem\u003eThe New Order\u003c\/em\u003e, which was Longlisted for the Story prize; and \u003cem\u003eThe Words of Dr. L\u003c\/em\u003e,  published in May, 2025. Her novels are \u003cem\u003eLike Normal People\u003c\/em\u003e and \u003cem\u003eA Town of Empty Rooms\u003c\/em\u003e. Her fiction has appeared in \u003cem\u003eThe New Yorker, Granta, Ploughshares, Zoetrope, The Yale Review, The Harvard Review, Story, Guernica\u003c\/em\u003e, and others, have been reprinted in \u003cem\u003eBest American Short Stories\u003c\/em\u003e and \u003cem\u003eBest American Mystery\u003c\/em\u003e stories and won three Pushcart prizes.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"background-color: white;\"\u003eGet to know Karen in our \u003ca title=\"Meet the Teaching Artist with Karen E. Bender\" href=\"https:\/\/writingworkshops.com\/blogs\/news\/meet-the-teaching-artist-building-interiority-with-karen-e-bender\" target=\"_blank\"\u003e\u003cem\u003eMeet the Teaching Artist\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e series.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"\"\u003eBuilding a character’s interiority consists of many elements, one of which is a character's fantasies, theories and plans. How do you use a character’s unique fantasies and theories of the world to help build their interior world? \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eIn this seminar, we will look at stories by Charles D'Ambrosio, Mavis Gallant, Sandra Cisneros and Roberto Bolano to see how they incorporate character’s fantasies and theories into a narrative, building a character’s interiority through the techniques. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eWe will spend the first hour discussing the stories and the second hour doing writing exercises. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"\"\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCan't Make It Live?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan\u003eNo problem! The session will be recorded and available to watch after the seminar concludes.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"sqs-block-content\"\u003e\n\u003cem\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"sqs-block-content\"\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eCOURSE TAKEAWAYS\u003c\/strong\u003e:\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"sqs-block-content\"\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eThrough close reading of stories, learn different ways that writers use fantasies and theories as a way to access the interior worlds of their characters\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eDevelop a character through fantasies and theories via writing prompts.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eLearn one element of interiority as a way to develop characters.\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCOURSE EXPECTATIONS: \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWe'll review the different ways authors use fantasies and theories to build interiority in a story and then write generative exercises to practice these methods. Students should come to class ready to write and will have opportunities to share work if they would like. Students will leave the class with various techniques they can use to convey interiority through these new craft techniques.\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eONLINE COURSE STRUCTURE:\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"sqs-block-content\"\u003eLive Seminar Via Zoom. Can't Make It Live? No problem! The session will be recorded and available to watch after the seminar concludes.\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"sqs-block-content\"\u003e\n\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003ePAYMENT OPTIONS\u003c\/strong\u003e:\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003eTuition is $99 USD. You can pay for the course in full\u003cspan style=\"box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003ci\u003eor\u003c\/i\u003e use Shop Pay or Affirm to pay over time with equal Monthly Payments. These options are available at checkout.\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cul data-rte-list=\"default\"\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eInstructor: Karen E. Bender\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eLive Seminar Via Zoom Wednesday, April 22nd, 2026\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e7PM - 9PM EST\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCan't Make It Live? No problem! The session will be recorded and available to watch after the seminar concludes.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eContact us \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003ca title=\"Contact\" href=\"https:\/\/writingworkshops.com\/pages\/contact\" target=\"_blank\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHERE\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e if you have any questions about this seminar.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv id=\"block-51a8238b2f73df2e52ed\" data-block-type=\"2\" class=\"sqs-block html-block sqs-block-html\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"sqs-block-content\"\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"\"\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Writing Workshops Org","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":43762433622264,"sku":"","price":99.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0287\/3917\/4532\/files\/Karen_Bender_Headshot_0f28a25c-9ca9-451d-9526-202ab68f3154.png?v=1736023512"},{"product_id":"fiction-voice-seminar-robert-siegel","title":"Find Your Fiction Voice: Live Writing Seminar with Robert Anthony Siegel on Tuesday, April 28th, 2026","description":"\u003cdiv id=\"block-0c22edf6c5f4ee9d89a4\" data-block-type=\"2\" class=\"sqs-block html-block sqs-block-html\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"sqs-block-content\"\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eLive Seminar Via Zoom Tuesday, April 28th, 2026\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eClass will meet 7:00PM - 9:00PM EST\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAny questions about this class? Use the Chat Button to talk with us. \u003c\/strong\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"\"\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eInstructor Robert Anthony Siegel\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003eis the author of a memoir, \u003c\/span\u003e\u003ci\u003eCriminals\u003c\/i\u003e\u003cspan\u003e, and two novels, \u003c\/span\u003e\u003ci\u003eAll Will Be Revealed\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/i\u003e\u003cspan\u003eand\u003c\/span\u003e\u003ci\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eAll the Money in the World\u003c\/i\u003e\u003cspan\u003e. His work has appeared in \u003c\/span\u003e\u003ci\u003eThe New York Times, The Los Angeles Times, Smithsonian Magazine, The Paris Review, The Drift, The Oxford American, and Ploughshares\u003c\/i\u003e\u003cspan\u003e, and has been anthologized in \u003c\/span\u003e\u003ci\u003eBest American Essays 2023, O. Henry Stories 2014,\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/i\u003e\u003cspan\u003eand\u003c\/span\u003e\u003ci\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003ePushcart Prize XXXVI\u003c\/i\u003e\u003cspan\u003e. He has been a Fulbright Scholar in Taiwan, a Mombukagakusho Fellow in Japan, a Writing Fellow at the Fine Arts Work Center in Provincetown, and a Paul Engle Fellow at the Iowa Writers Workshop. He holds an MFA from the Iowa Writers Workshop.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"background-color: white;\"\u003eGet to know Robert in our \u003ca title=\"Meet the Teaching Artist with Robert Anthony Siegel\" href=\"https:\/\/writingworkshops.com\/blogs\/news\/meet-the-teaching-artist-what-is-voice-with-robert-anthony-siegel\" target=\"_blank\"\u003e\u003cem\u003eMeet the Teaching Artist\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e series.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"\"\u003eVoice is crucial to writing fiction, yet difficult to understand. Some clarity on how voice is created will help students develop voice in their own work.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"\"\u003eWriters talk a lot about voice, but what is it, exactly? Why is it so important? How does it work? And how is it constructed?\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"\"\u003eIn this seminar, we’ll look at several examples of voice from great published writers, and then explore how to create a range of distinctive voices in our own writing through in-class exercises.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"sqs-block-content\"\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eCan't Make It Live?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eNo problem! The session will be recorded and available to watch after the seminar concludes.\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"sqs-block-content\"\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCOURSE EXPECTATIONS: \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"\"\u003eCome ready to ask questions, write short in-class exercises, and share with the group.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCOURSE TAKEAWAYS:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eA clear understanding of voice, its role in fiction, and how it is created on the page.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eTechniques to help you to develop voice in your own fiction.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTESTIMONIALS:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\"This course exceeded my expectations. Robert \"dripped\" the craft-info to us, just enough to get to the next exercise. It never felt \"information heavy\" to me. He covered everything for me.\" -Robert B.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e:The course was wonderful. The wealth of information and the opportunity to use the exercises to think through my novel was most valuable. What an excellent course all around: the structure, content, and atmospher.\" -former student \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\"I found Robert's provision of tools, and then the practical application in exercises most valuable.  Robert is one of the best that I have learned from. His tempo and pace throughout the class were great. He listens with a keen ear, and is very approachable and compassionate in his delivery. He also shared a lot of examples of novels for us to read and pick up on ways to deliver story.\" -Carol R.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\"Robert was superb. He created an encouraging atmosphere, a clear step-by-step building of ideas, and helpful exercises. Highly recommend!\" -former student\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\"This class exceeded my expectations. I found the didactic portions were extremely informative and so were the exercises very valuable.\" -Lisa M.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\"Full of richly drawn characters and jolting plot twists—Glasser’s time behind bars is especially chilling—Siegel’s debut novel works both as a parable of how quickly the high and mighty can fall, and as gripping drama. 'Money' well spent.\" -NEW YORK POST on ALL THE MONEY IN THE WORLD\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\"Early in this novel, there is a wonderful scene—rich with embarrassment—in which Louis Glasser, the altogether unlikely hero, helps his Harvard-educated son buy a new suit. The son’s fortunes founder, but that’s nothing compared to the perils that overwhelm his father—a lawyer who operates on the margins and becomes the target of a criminal investigation. Siegel’s … portraits (loving and otherwise) of the Glassers, New York prosecutors, and various lowlifes are right on the money.\" -THE NEW YORKER on ALL THE MONEY IN THE WORLD\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\"...Well-turned and elegant...Gloriously complex...\" -ATLANTA JOURNAL-CONSTITUTION on ALL WILL BE REVEALED\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\"...A richly detailed and seedily seductive narrative.\" -PUBLISHERS WEEKLY on ALL WILL BE REVEALED\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\"Robert's unique skill as a teacher comes from his enthusiasm not only for talking, which is present in many talented professors, but for listening... He has a reputation for being the best kind of teacher: generous, knowledgeable, demanding, and always at the ready with excellent advice.\" -former student\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\"The level of discourse was challenging and interesting and I think part of the reason for that was the casual atmosphere of discussion, fostered by Robert. When people are allowed to speak in an open, non-threatening environment, wonderful things happen.\" -former student\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"sqs-block-content\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eONLINE COURSE STRUCTURE:\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\nLive Seminar Via Zoom on Tuesday, April 28th, 2026\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"sqs-block-content\"\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"sqs-block-content\"\u003eClass will meet 7PM - 9:00PM EST\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"sqs-block-content\"\u003e\n\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003ePAYMENT OPTIONS\u003c\/strong\u003e:\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003eYou can pay for the course in full \u003ci\u003e or\u003c\/i\u003e use Shop Pay or Affirm to pay over time with equal Monthly Payments. These options are available at checkout.\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cul data-rte-list=\"default\"\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eInstructor: Robert Anthony Siegel\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"sqs-block-content\"\u003eLive Seminar Via Zoom on Tuesday, April 28th, 2026\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"sqs-block-content\"\u003eClass will meet 7PM - 9:00PM EST\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eContact us \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003ca title=\"Contact\" href=\"https:\/\/writingworkshops.com\/pages\/contact\" target=\"_blank\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHERE\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e if you have any questions about this seminar.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Writing Workshops Org","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":43827662225656,"sku":"","price":99.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0287\/3917\/4532\/files\/robertsiegelHeadshot_ee45e18b-ab54-46a0-b54f-a4fde74c22fe.png?v=1684348691"},{"product_id":"real-people-real-characters-nonfiction-writing-seminar-online","title":"Real People, Real Characters: How To Develop Convincing, Complex Characters in Creative Nonfiction Zoom Seminar with Blaise Allysen Kearsley on Wednesday, May 20th, 2026","description":"\u003ch2 class=\"font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-normal leading-[1.7]\"\u003e\n\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003eWednesday, May 20th, 2026\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003ch2 class=\"font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-normal leading-[1.7]\"\u003eLive Seminar via Zoom from 6:30 PM – 8:00 PM ET\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-normal leading-[1.7]\"\u003e🌍 \u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eClass Times by Time Zone:\u003c\/strong\u003e Los Angeles (PDT): 3:30 PM – 5:00 PM \/ Chicago (CDT): 5:30 PM – 7:00 PM \/ New York (EDT): 6:30 PM – 8:00 PM \u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-normal leading-[1.7]\"\u003eAny questions about this class? Use the Chat Button to talk with us.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-normal leading-[1.7]\"\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eInstructor Bio\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-normal leading-[1.7]\"\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eBlaise Allysen Kearsley is a Black-biracial writer and teacher based in Brooklyn. Her writing has appeared in \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003eCatapult\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cspan\u003e, \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003eLongreads, the Boston Globe, Electric Literature's The Nervous Breakdown, Elle, Midnight Breakfast, The Weeklings\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cspan\u003e, and in the anthologies \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003eMortified: Real Words. Real People. Real Pathetic\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cspan\u003e, \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003eNonwhite and Woman\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cspan\u003e, and \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003eCringe: Teenage Diaries, Journals, Notes, Letters, Poems, And Abandoned Rock Operas\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cspan\u003e. Blaise is a contributing editor at \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003eVestal Review\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cspan\u003e, the oldest flash fiction journal on the planet.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-normal leading-[1.7]\"\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWho is this class for?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-normal leading-[1.7]\"\u003eThis creative nonfiction seminar is open to all writers — whether you're struggling to turn real people into strong, authentic characters in a current project, you want to learn how to reveal yourself as the central figure of your story, or you're just starting out and need a deep dive into character development as a foundation. All levels are welcome.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-normal leading-[1.7]\"\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat to expect:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-normal leading-[1.7]\"\u003eWriting about real people, ourselves included, comes with its own set of challenges. How do we translate the people in our lives into fully realized characters? What might make them come alive on the page? How do we draw them in a balanced, multi-dimensional way?\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-normal leading-[1.7]\"\u003eIn this 90-minute online writing seminar, you'll explore a variety of approaches to developing characters in creative nonfiction. Blaise will share craft advice from published writers and lead you through published excerpts by authors like Samantha Irby, Lidia Yuknavitch, Damon Young, Carmen Maria Machado, Eileen Myles, Johanna Adorján, and others. You'll also put ideas into practice in real time with generative prompts and exploratory exercises.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-normal leading-[1.7]\"\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat are the writing goals?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-normal leading-[1.7]\"\u003eIn this seminar, students will explore techniques for translating real people into convincing, complex literary characters. Through generative prompts and in-session exercises, you will practice character development strategies and leave with new tools and fresh material to apply to your nonfiction writing projects.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-normal leading-[1.7]\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCOURSE OUTLINE\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-pre-wrap leading-[1.7]\"\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e— Character Development in Creative Nonfiction \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-pre-wrap leading-[1.7]\"\u003e— Discussion of published excerpts exploring character portrayal\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-pre-wrap leading-[1.7]\"\u003e— Craft advice from published writers on developing real people as characters\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-pre-wrap leading-[1.7]\"\u003e— Generative prompts and exploratory writing exercises\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-pre-wrap leading-[1.7]\"\u003e— Group discussion and Q\u0026amp;A\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-normal leading-[1.7]\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCOURSE TAKEAWAYS:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul class=\"[li_\u0026amp;]:mb-0 [li_\u0026amp;]:mt-1 [li_\u0026amp;]:gap-1 [\u0026amp;:not(:last-child)_ul]:pb-1 [\u0026amp;:not(:last-child)_ol]:pb-1 list-disc flex flex-col gap-1 pl-8 mb-3\"\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"whitespace-normal break-words pl-2\"\u003eA deeper understanding of how to portray real people as fully realized characters in creative nonfiction\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"whitespace-normal break-words pl-2\"\u003ePractical strategies for revealing yourself as the central figure of your story in a way that resonates with readers\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"whitespace-normal break-words pl-2\"\u003eFamiliarity with a range of published approaches to character development in memoir and personal essay\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"whitespace-normal break-words pl-2\"\u003eNew writing generated from in-session prompts and exercises\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"whitespace-normal break-words pl-2\"\u003eCraft tools for drawing balanced, multi-dimensional characters from life\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-normal leading-[1.7]\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTESTIMONIALS:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-pre-wrap leading-[1.7]\"\u003e\"I love the readings we do, and especially that they so often feature writers of color. The written feedback from you is always so helpful and in-depth. The prompts helped me to develop a lot of content. I always look forward to workshop nights — it's a safe space to share.\" — Former Student\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-pre-wrap leading-[1.7]\"\u003e\"I felt so often in college, that I was writing against these very confident men who were forthcoming about the problems within my work and style. Working in your group has been restorative and has allowed me to trust myself without fear of being torn apart.\" — Former Student\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-pre-wrap leading-[1.7]\"\u003e\"Working with Blaise has made me a more confident writer. She's helped me to see my writing as a larger work, and creates a safe, inclusive, encouraging space to share and connect with other writers.\" — Former Student\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-pre-wrap leading-[1.7]\"\u003e\"Blaise is such a skilled reader and editor, and her notes are always valuable. She offers wonderful perspectives, and assembles groups of writers with keen perspectives of their own.\" — Former Student\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-pre-wrap leading-[1.7]\"\u003e\"I really loved the class. You treat every question with such a genuine desire to give the best possible answer and it made me happy every time. I admire that you focus on building people up. For someone like me, that means the world.\" — Former Student\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-pre-wrap leading-[1.7]\"\u003e\"During quarantine I had to show up for myself and others who counted on me, even when I felt like all I wanted to do was hide under my couch. Being part of this creative group of writers saved me.\" — Former Student\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-normal leading-[1.7]\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePAYMENT OPTIONS:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-normal leading-[1.7]\"\u003eTuition is $75 USD. You can pay for the course in full or use Shop Pay or Affirm to pay over time with equal Monthly Payments. Both options are available at checkout.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-normal leading-[1.7]\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eONLINE COURSE STRUCTURE:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul class=\"[li_\u0026amp;]:mb-0 [li_\u0026amp;]:mt-1 [li_\u0026amp;]:gap-1 [\u0026amp;:not(:last-child)_ul]:pb-1 [\u0026amp;:not(:last-child)_ol]:pb-1 list-disc flex flex-col gap-1 pl-8 mb-3\"\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"whitespace-normal break-words pl-2\"\u003eInstructor: Blaise Allysen Kearsley\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"whitespace-normal break-words pl-2\"\u003eWednesday, May 20, 2026\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"whitespace-normal break-words pl-2\"\u003eClass will meet once via Zoom on Wednesday, 6:30 PM – 8:00 PM ET\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"whitespace-normal break-words pl-2\"\u003eTuition is $75 USD.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e","brand":"Writing Workshops Org","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":43833241534712,"sku":"","price":75.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0287\/3917\/4532\/files\/BlaiseAllysenKearsleyHeadshot6.png?v=1772650534"},{"product_id":"building-interiority-in-characters-perceptions-judgment-envy-and-love-with-karen-e-bender","title":"Building Interiority in Characters with Perceptions: Judgment, Envy and Love with Karen E. Bender, a Zoom Seminar on Wednesday, July 1st, 2026","description":"\u003cdiv id=\"block-0c22edf6c5f4ee9d89a4\" data-block-type=\"2\" class=\"sqs-block html-block sqs-block-html\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"sqs-block-content\"\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eLive Seminar Via Zoom Wednesday, July 1st, 2026\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe class will meet 7PM - 9:00PM Eastern\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"sqs-block-content\"\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eAny questions about this class? Use the Chat Button to talk with us. \u003c\/strong\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"\"\u003e\u003cbr\u003eTaught by Karen E. Bender, author of three collections: \u003cem\u003eRefund\u003c\/em\u003e, which was a Finalist for the National Book Award, shortlisted for the Frank O'Connor International Story Prize, and Longlisted for the Story prize; \u003cem\u003eThe New Order\u003c\/em\u003e, which was Longlisted for the Story prize; and \u003cem\u003eThe Words of Dr. L\u003c\/em\u003e,  published in May, 2025. Her novels are \u003cem\u003eLike Normal People\u003c\/em\u003e and \u003cem\u003eA Town of Empty Rooms\u003c\/em\u003e. Her fiction has appeared in \u003cem\u003eThe New Yorker, Granta, Ploughshares, Zoetrope, The Yale Review, The Harvard Review, Story, Guernica\u003c\/em\u003e, and others, have been reprinted in \u003cem\u003eBest American Short Stories\u003c\/em\u003e and \u003cem\u003eBest American Mystery\u003c\/em\u003e stories and won three Pushcart prizes.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"background-color: white;\"\u003eGet to know Karen in our \u003ca title=\"Meet the Teaching Artist with Karen E. Bender\" href=\"https:\/\/writingworkshops.com\/blogs\/news\/meet-the-teaching-artist-building-interiority-with-karen-e-bender\" target=\"_blank\"\u003e\u003cem\u003eMeet the Teaching Artist\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e series.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"\"\u003eBuilding a character’s interiority consists of many elements. Characters are full of many thoughts and perceptions about other characters. How does a character judge another? Envy another person? Admire another person? \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"\"\u003eExamining the ways writers show how characters react to one another helps create a sense of their interior worlds.  In this seminar, we will look at stories by Mavis Gallant, John Cheever, Deborah Eisenberg, Raymond Carver, Eve Babitz and ZZ Packer to see how they incorporate character’s use of judgments, envy, admiration,  creating a complex and living consciousness.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"\"\u003eWe will spend the first hour discussing the stories and the second hour doing writing exercises.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"sqs-block-content\"\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e \u003cstrong\u003eCan't Make It Live?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan\u003eNo problem! The session will be recorded and available to watch after the seminar concludes.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"sqs-block-content\"\u003e\n\u003cem\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"sqs-block-content\"\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eCOURSE TAKEAWAYS\u003c\/strong\u003e:\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"sqs-block-content\"\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eThrough close reading of stories, learn different ways that writers use judgment, envy and admiration as a way to access the interior worlds of their characters.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eLearn how judgment, envy, and admiration connect with action in stories.                \u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eDevelop a character through these perceptions via writing prompts.                \u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eLearn one element of interiority as a way to develop characters.\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCOURSE EXPECTATIONS: \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWe'll review the different ways authors use perceptions to build interiority in a story and then write generative exercises to practice these methods. Students should come to class ready to write and will have opportunities to share work if they would like. Students will leave the class with various techniques they can use to convey interiority through character perceptions.\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eONLINE COURSE STRUCTURE:\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"sqs-block-content\"\u003e\n\u003cbr\u003eLive Seminar Via Zoom. Can't Make It Live? No problem! The session will be recorded and available to watch after the seminar concludes.\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"sqs-block-content\"\u003e\n\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003ePAYMENT OPTIONS\u003c\/strong\u003e:\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003eTuition is $99 USD. You can pay for the course in full \u003ci\u003e or\u003c\/i\u003e use Shop Pay or Affirm to pay over time with equal Monthly Payments. These options are available at checkout.\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cul data-rte-list=\"default\"\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eInstructor: Karen E. Bender\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWednesday, July 1st, 2026\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe class will meet 7PM - 9:00PM EST\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCan't Make It Live? No problem! The session will be recorded and available to watch after the seminar concludes.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTuition is $99 USD.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Writing Workshops Org","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":43833963380984,"sku":"","price":99.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0287\/3917\/4532\/files\/Karen_Bender_Headshot_0f28a25c-9ca9-451d-9526-202ab68f3154.png?v=1736023512"},{"product_id":"dont-quit-your-day-job-creativity-writing-workshop-online-june-2026","title":"Don’t Quit Your Day Job: Creativity When Life Gets in the Way Zoom Seminar with Lillian Stone on Saturday, June 6th, 2026","description":"\u003ch2\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSaturday, June 6th, 2026\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eLive Seminar via Zoom from 11:00AM - 1:00PM Eastern \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e🌍 \u003cem\u003eClass Times by Time Zone: \u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cem\u003eLos Angeles (PDT): 8:00 AM – 10:00 AM \/ Chicago (CDT): 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM \/ New York (EDT): 11:00 AM – 1:00 PM \/ London (BST): 4:00 PM – 6:00 PM \/ Berlin (CEST): 5:00 PM – 7:00 PM\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAny questions about this class? Use the Chat Button to talk with us. \u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eInstructor Lillian Stone is an author, humor writer, freelance reporter and perennial day-job keeper. She juggles gainful employment while working as a regular contributor to outlets including \u003cem\u003eSlate, BBC Worklife, The New Yorker, McSweeney’s Internet Tendency, \u003c\/em\u003eand\u003cem\u003e The Onion\u003c\/em\u003e. She sold her first book, EVERYBODY’S FAVORITE, to a Big Five publisher (Dey Street Books, a HarperCollins imprint) in 2021; over the next two years, she wrote it while working full-time and enduring the tribulations of beagle ownership. Today, the book has garnered acclaim from P\u003cem\u003eublisher’s Weekly, Glamour, Vulture, the Chicago Reader\u003c\/em\u003e and, weirdly, Bob Odenkirk.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMeet the Teaching Artist:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/writingworkshops.com\/blogs\/news\/meet-the-teaching-artist-lillian-stone-dont-quit-your-day-job\" target=\"_blank\" title=\"Meet the Teaching Artist: Lillian Stone on Writing the Book While Keeping the Day Job\" rel=\"noopener\"\u003e\u003cem\u003eLillian Stone on Writing the Book While Keeping the Day Job\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-normal leading-[1.7]\"\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWho is this class for?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-normal leading-[1.7]\"\u003eThis seminar is open to writers and creatives at all levels who are struggling to maintain a consistent creative practice alongside the demands of a day job, family responsibilities, or life's general chaos. It's especially well-suited to anyone working toward a long-term creative goal — a book, a freelance career, a body of work — who needs practical tools and renewed inspiration to keep moving forward.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-normal leading-[1.7]\"\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat to expect:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-normal leading-[1.7]\"\u003eIn this lively two-hour online writing seminar, humor writer and full-time employee Lillian Stone shares a practical framework for protecting and advancing your creative work — even when life refuses to cooperate. Drawing on her own experience writing her debut book while working full-time, Lillian walks students through a four-part approach: Intention, Discipline, Grace, and Action — a roadmap designed to meet you wherever you are in your creative journey.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-normal leading-[1.7]\"\u003eThe lecture features a look at artists who maintained day jobs well into their periods of creative success, from Samantha Irby, who kept her position at a veterinary clinic even after a major book deal, to Mark Rothko, who taught art students for over two decades. These stories aren't just inspiring — they're evidence that constraint can fuel creativity. Students will leave with concrete tools: boundary scripts for advocating for their creative time, and a year-long progress tracking template to sustain momentum long after the seminar ends.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-normal leading-[1.7]\"\u003eCan't make it live? No problem — the session will be recorded and available to registered students after the seminar concludes.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-normal leading-[1.7]\"\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat are the writing goals?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-normal leading-[1.7]\"\u003eIn this course, students will identify their \"Big One\" — a single, meaningful creative goal to pursue — and build the practical scaffolding to chase it. Students will draft short scripts for setting boundaries and advocating for their creative time with colleagues, family, and friends. Each participant will leave with a personalized progress tracking sheet and year-long time management template to use throughout their project. This single-session seminar emphasizes guided exercises and group discussion rather than manuscript critique.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-normal leading-[1.7]\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCOURSE OUTLINE\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-normal leading-[1.7]\"\u003ePre-class prep work for students: Visualizing your Big Creative Goal (BCG)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul class=\"[li_\u0026amp;]:mb-0 [li_\u0026amp;]:mt-1 [li_\u0026amp;]:gap-1 [\u0026amp;:not(:last-child)_ul]:pb-1 [\u0026amp;:not(:last-child)_ol]:pb-1 list-disc flex flex-col gap-1 pl-8 mb-3\"\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"whitespace-normal break-words pl-2\"\u003eIntro: Why constraints on creative living can actually be… good!\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"whitespace-normal break-words pl-2\"\u003eStep 1: Intention\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"whitespace-normal break-words pl-2\"\u003eStep 2: Discipline\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"whitespace-normal break-words pl-2\"\u003eStep 3: Grace\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"whitespace-normal break-words pl-2\"\u003eStep 4: Action\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-normal leading-[1.7]\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCOURSE TAKEAWAYS:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul class=\"[li_\u0026amp;]:mb-0 [li_\u0026amp;]:mt-1 [li_\u0026amp;]:gap-1 [\u0026amp;:not(:last-child)_ul]:pb-1 [\u0026amp;:not(:last-child)_ol]:pb-1 list-disc flex flex-col gap-1 pl-8 mb-3\"\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"whitespace-normal break-words pl-2\"\u003eStudents will identify their Big One: a single large creative goal to pursue.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"whitespace-normal break-words pl-2\"\u003eStudents will create several short scripts to set boundaries and advocate for their creative time.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"whitespace-normal break-words pl-2\"\u003eStudents will create a progress tracking sheet and time management template to update throughout their project.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"whitespace-normal break-words pl-2\"\u003eStudents will leave feeling empowered by the stories of other creatives — Samantha Irby, Mark Rothko, and others — who propelled their art while working day jobs.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-normal leading-[1.7]\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePAYMENT OPTIONS:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-normal leading-[1.7]\"\u003eTuition is $99 USD. You can pay for the course in full or use Shop Pay or Affirm to pay over time with equal Monthly Payments. Both options are available at checkout.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-normal leading-[1.7]\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eONLINE COURSE STRUCTURE:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul class=\"[li_\u0026amp;]:mb-0 [li_\u0026amp;]:mt-1 [li_\u0026amp;]:gap-1 [\u0026amp;:not(:last-child)_ul]:pb-1 [\u0026amp;:not(:last-child)_ol]:pb-1 list-disc flex flex-col gap-1 pl-8 mb-3\"\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"whitespace-normal break-words pl-2\"\u003eInstructor: Lillian Stone\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"whitespace-normal break-words pl-2\"\u003eSaturday, June 6, 2026\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"whitespace-normal break-words pl-2\"\u003eLive via Zoom from 11:00 AM – 1:00 PM ET\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"whitespace-normal break-words pl-2\"\u003eTuition is $99 USD.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e","brand":"Writing Workshops Org","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":44098349859064,"sku":"","price":99.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0287\/3917\/4532\/files\/LillianStoneHeadshot.png?v=1773256163"},{"product_id":"literary-magazine-submissions-workshop","title":"Literary Magazine Submissions Workshop 2-Hour Live Seminar with Meg Eden Kuyatt on Tuesday, August 25th, 2026","description":"\u003cdiv class=\"sqs-block-content\"\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eTuesday, August 25th, 2026\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eLive Seminar via Zoom from 5.30pm - 7:30pm EST\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\n\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAny questions about this class? Use the Chat Button to talk with us. \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"sqs-block-content\"\u003eInstructor Meg Eden Kuyatt teaches creative writing at colleges and writing centers. She is the author of the 2021 Towson Prize for Literature-winning poetry collection “Drowning in the Floating World” and the forthcoming “obsolete hill” (Fernwood Press, 2026) and children’s novels, including the Schneider Family Book Award Honor-winning “Good Different,” and “The Girl in the Walls” (Scholastic, 2025). \u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"sqs-block-content\" style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003e\u003cem\u003eRead \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/writingworkshops.com\/blogs\/news\/getting-your-foot-in-the-door-an-interview-with-meg-eden-kuyatt-on-publishing-in-literary-magazines\" title=\"Getting Your Foot in the Door: an Interview with Meg Eden Kuyatt on Publishing in Literary Magazines\" rel=\"noopener\" target=\"_blank\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ean Interview with Meg\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e on Publishing in Literary Magazines.\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWant to submit your work to magazines but don't know how? In this workshop, we'll talk about what literary magazines are, what editors are looking for in submissions, have a “translation” exercise, tips on how to get the most out of a lit mag, tips for approaching writing a cover letter and contributor bio, as well as how to handle rejections.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe skills you learn in this session can easily apply to other publication realms, including writing to agents and editors of small book presses. All participants will receive a complimentary magazine of their choice.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eParticipants will have time during the seminar with interactive prompts and will also receive resources to continue writing on their own\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCan't Make It Live?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eNo problem! The session will be recorded and available to watch after the seminar concludes.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"sqs-block-content\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eTAKE THIS CLASS IF:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"sqs-block-content\"\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eYou’re writing short stories, essays, or poems.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eYou want to learn best practices for publishing in \u003cspan class=\"il\"\u003eliterary\u003c\/span\u003e \u003cspan class=\"il\"\u003emagazines\u003c\/span\u003e.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eYou need help honing your submission materials.\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCOURSE TAKEAWAYS:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eUnderstanding Literary Magazine Submissions\u003c\/strong\u003e: Students will gain a clear understanding of the submission process for literary magazines, including what editors look for in submissions and how to effectively target their work to the right publications.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCrafting Effective Cover Letters and Contributor Bios\u003c\/strong\u003e: Participants will learn how to write compelling cover letters and contributor bios that make their submissions stand out, enhancing their chances of getting published.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eNavigating Rejections and Maximizing Opportunities\u003c\/strong\u003e: Attendees will develop strategies for handling rejections constructively and learn how to maximize the benefits of being published in literary magazines, including building relationships with editors and leveraging published work for further opportunities.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"sqs-block-content\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003ePAYMENT OPTIONS\u003c\/strong\u003e: \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003eTuition is $99 USD. You can pay for the course in full\u003ci\u003e or\u003c\/i\u003e use Shop Pay or Affirm to pay over time with equal Monthly Payments. Both options are available at checkout.\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cul data-rte-list=\"default\"\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"\"\u003eClass is on Tuesday, August 25th, 2026\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"\"\u003eLive Seminar via Zoom from 5.30pm - 7:30pm EST\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIf you have questions, please use the Chat Button or contact us via email \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/writingworkshops.com\/pages\/contact\" title=\"Contact\" target=\"_blank\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHERE\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003cstrong\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Writing Workshops Org","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":44125090775288,"sku":"","price":99.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0287\/3917\/4532\/files\/Meg_Eden_Headshot_2024_1.png?v=1724944392"},{"product_id":"getting-published-with-limited-clips-zoom-seminar","title":"Getting Published in Magazines \u0026 Newspapers Even with Limited Clips Zoom Seminar with Katie Reilly on Monday, June 1st, 2026","description":"\u003cdiv id=\"yui_3_17_2_1_1585167500790_108\" class=\"row sqs-row\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"col sqs-col-7 span-7\"\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eLive Seminar Via Zoom Monday, June 1st, 2026\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eClass will meet 5:00PM - 7:00PM Eastern\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"col sqs-col-7 span-7\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"sqs-block html-block sqs-block-html\" data-block-type=\"2\" id=\"block-9bd4c6c3a222aea2e1f5\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"sqs-block-content\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAny questions about this class? Use the Chat Button to talk with us. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cspan size=\"2\" face=\"Karla,Tahoma,sans-serif,serif,EmojiFont\" color=\"#495762\"\u003eLed by \u003c\/span\u003eKatie Reilly, a freelance journalist and attorney based in the Bay Area in California. Katie's writing generally focuses on women's health, mental health and parenting. Her articles have appeared in \u003cem\u003eThe New York Times Magazine, The Washington Post, The Guardian, Elle Magazine, The Boston Globe, Newsweek, USA Today\u003c\/em\u003e and \u003cem\u003eHuffPost\u003c\/em\u003e, among other publications.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003eNoah Michelson, the Director of \u003ca rel=\"noopener\" title=\"Noah Michelson, Director of HuffPost Personal\" href=\"https:\/\/www.huffpost.com\/section\/huffpost-personal\" target=\"_blank\"\u003e\u003cem\u003eHuffPost Personal\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e and co-host of \u003ca rel=\"noopener\" title=\"HuffPost's Am I Doing It Wrong? Podcast\" href=\"https:\/\/pod.link\/1707391801\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eHuffPost's Am I Doing It Wrong\u003c\/a\u003e? podcast, will join us during the second hour to answer questions about pitching and publishing. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv id=\"m_-274502357496327375gmail-yui_3_17_2_1_1585167500790_108\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhen submitting a pitch or essay to a publication, writers are always asked to send other pieces they've published to show their writing experience. This ask can often feel overwhelming and discouraging for new writers. What do I send if I have no clips? How do I get more essays published with few or limited clips to display my work? How do I keep track of numerous pitches and stay positive in an often discouraging process?\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn this 2 hour seminar, Katie will discuss different approaches to getting clips early in your career.  By the end of the program students will leave with a better understanding of the pitch process -- how to write captivating pitches, how to find editors, how to find new writing opportunities and how to remain positive! \u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAnd of course, we can’t make any promises, but after this seminar it's likely that you will end up with a new clip too!\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCan't Make It Live?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eNo problem! The session will be recorded and available to watch after the seminar concludes.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003eKatie's students have had their work published in the following places so far:      \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cem\u003e New York Times \u003ca title=\"New York Times Modern Love Student Publication\" href=\"https:\/\/www.nytimes.com\/2023\/09\/12\/style\/tiny-modern-love-stories-i-know-something-she-doesnt.html\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eModern Love\u003c\/a\u003e \u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003ca title=\"Student Maya Golden Published at Salon\" href=\"https:\/\/www.salon.com\/2023\/05\/29\/stanning-fandom-healing-trauma-boybands\/\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eSalon\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/writingworkshops.com\/blogs\/news\/workshop-alum-dan-fogel-published-in-huffpost-personal\" title=\"Workshop Alum Dan Fogel's HuffPost Piece Read Over 3 Million Times!\" target=\"_blank\"\u003e HuffPost\u003c\/a\u003e    \u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cem\u003eSheKnows    \u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cem\u003e \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.insider.com\/wore-tux-instead-dress-family-wedding-queer-2023-5\" title=\"Student Publication at Insider\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eInsider\u003c\/a\u003e    \u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cem\u003eToday     \u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cem\u003eGood Housekeeping    \u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cem\u003eThe Independent     \u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cem\u003eWell + Good\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/writingworkshops.com\/blogs\/news\/workshop-alum-elizabeth-kleinfeld-published-in-the-boston-globe\" title=\"The Boston Globe Workshop Alum Publication\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eBoston Globe\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e(Please note there will be a 10 minute break at the end of the first hour). \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eCOURSE TAKEAWAYS:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOverview of different paths to publication for new writers \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eGeneral understanding of the pitch process\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eLearn how to write captivating pitches\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eLearn how to determine where to send pitches and how to find editors \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSupport through a difficult and often discouraging process that requires patience and persistence\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eGenerate new ideas and turn them into interesting pitches\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003csection\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTESTIMONIALS:\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e“Katie C. Reilly's writing distills the beauty, fragility, difficulty and wonder of what it means to be alive at this moment in history into clear-eyed, evocative and poignant essays. She tells personal stories that simultaneously feel both intimate and universal and thereby offer the rare gift of allowing the reader to learn about themselves while learning about her.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e-Noah Michelson \u003c\/span\u003e \u003cspan\u003e Editorial Director at \u003cem\u003eHuffPost\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e“Katie deftly wove together her personal family history with ALS with that of another woman experiencing a similar diagnosis. She seamlessly alternated between her own story and the other woman’s, while incorporating statistics and important context for readers, resulting in a well-crafted, cohesive, and satisfying read. I admire Katie’s ability to mine such a deeply personal story in her professional writing. Readers will surely benefit from and relate to her important work.” \u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e-Kayla Adler \u003c\/span\u003e \u003cspan\u003eDeputy Editor at\u003cem\u003e Elle Magazine\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e“Katie Reilly has that elusive ability to write about the particulars of her own life in ways that feel universal. Her generosity and openness, combined with journalistic skill, is something all editors wish for in a writer. The idea of Katie passing this rare skill down makes me very happy!”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e Meaghan O’Connell \u003c\/span\u003e \u003cspan\u003eFeatures editor at \u003cem\u003eRomper\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e“Katie Reilly has a generous approach to editing, always searching for ways to strengthen the writer’s voice and the reader’s experience. She has a keen eye for finding the sweet spot where personal essay and research intersect—a skill that makes a writer’s work stand out. As an editor, Katie offers valuable feedback rich with specificity and direction. She is not one to waste words or time and approaches a story with intention, pushing other writers to get to the heartbeat of their story.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e-Jessica Ciencin Henriquez \u003c\/span\u003e \u003cspan\u003ewriter and author of the forthcoming memoir IF YOU LOVED ME YOU WOULD KNOW\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e“Katie asks thoughtful probative questions and provides honest feedback that helps me to effectively focus my writing. She recommends additional nonfiction readings that inspire deeper connections in my own work. Most importantly, as an effective listener she creates a safe writing community that encourages sharing, risk taking and is fun!”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e-Tara Van de Mark \u003c\/span\u003e \u003cspan\u003eWriter \u0026amp; editor \u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\"Katie Reilly was a wonderful teacher. She was so responsive to emails and student questions and her feedback on essays was masterful and so specific. I could tell that she really cared about each writer's journey and was committed to helping each student writer be better. She really took time to go above and beyond!\" - former student\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\"This class was perfect for me and exceeded my expectations. The readings helped with identifying craft elements that I could use in my writing. The Zoom discussions helped me hear others express opinions and insights about the readings. I identified a few people to share more of writing beyond what we did in the sessions. Katie’s feedback was exceptional and detailed. The two guest speakers changed my approach to publishing my work. I felt energized during the course. Loved the readings, feedback, guest speakers, and discussions with talented participants and Katie.\" -Dan F.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\"This was a great class! The overall structure of the class was set up to encourage, support, and provide opportunities to connect with editors and continue learning after the class was over. Thank you!\" -Maureen C.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\"This is a class I needed. I found the discussions, editor availability, and submission info most valuable. Katie was very friendly, open, and responsive to questions. Appreciated her critiques as well!\" Mary M.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\"Katie is a very organized, compassionate, wonderful teacher.\" -former student\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\"I took the Getting Published with Limited Clips seminar with Katie Reilly. It was excellent. The most valuable part of the seminar was the personalization to every attendee, and the guest editor that Katie brought in was golden.\" -former student\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\"This course lived up to its description. All the pitch examples were great, as were the resources on where to find calls for pitches in different types of magazines. It was especially inspiring\/encouraging to hear from the guest editor, Noah. I know not all editors are as excited to work with first-time writers, but it's great to be able to put a kind face to the word \"editor\" - which can often sound scary, but shouldn't.\" -Ansley S.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/section\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\n\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePAYMENT OPTIONS:\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003eTuition is $99. You can pay for the course in full or use Affirm to pay over time with equal Monthly Payments. Both options are available at checkout.\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cul data-rte-list=\"default\"\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eInstructor: \u003cspan size=\"2\" face=\"Karla,Tahoma,sans-serif,serif,EmojiFont\" color=\"#495762\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eKatie Reilly\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eLive Seminar Via Zoom on Monday, June 1st, 2026\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eClass will meet 5:00PM - 7:00PM Eastern\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eTuition is $99.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cscribe-shadow id=\"crxjs-ext\" data-crx=\"okfkdaglfjjjfefdcppliegebpoegaii\" style=\"position: fixed; width: 0px; height: 0px; top: 0px; left: 0px; z-index: 2147483647; overflow: visible; visibility: visible;\"\u003e\u003c\/scribe-shadow\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Writing Workshops Org","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":44431520071928,"sku":"","price":99.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0287\/3917\/4532\/files\/KatieReillyHeadshot2024.png?v=1758141487"},{"product_id":"newsletter-workshop-platform-business","title":"Start a Newsletter to Supercharge Your Platform, Network and Business Zoom Seminar with Courtney Kocak on Sunday, June 14th, 2026","description":"\u003ch2\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSunday, June 14th, 2026\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eLive Seminar via Zoom from 11:00AM - 2:00PM Pacific\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAny questions about this class? Use the Chat Button to talk with us. \u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eInstructor \u003c\/span\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.courtneykocak.com\/\" title=\"Courtney Kocak's Author Website\" rel=\"noopener\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eCourtney Kocak\u003c\/a\u003e\u003cspan\u003e is a writer, podcaster, and comedian who splits time between Austin and Los Angeles. She wrote for Amazon’s Emmy-winning animated series \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003eDanger \u0026amp; Eggs\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cspan\u003eand Netflix’s \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003eKnow It All\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cspan\u003e. She’s produced a slew of highly-ranked podcasts—including \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003eThe Bellas Podcast\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cspan\u003e, which debuted at #1 on Apple Podcasts, PayPal’s Never Stand Still, and Girlboss Radio—and currently hosts three of her own with over two million downloads to date: \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003ePrivate Parts Unknown\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cspan\u003e, about love and sexuality around the world, \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003eThe Bleeders\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cspan\u003e, about book writing and publishing, and \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003ePodcast Bestie\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cspan\u003e, a best friend to podcasters trying to grow and monetize their shows (and a popular Substack). Her bylines include \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003eThe New York Times, The Washington Post, LA Times, Cosmopolitan, Slate, HuffPost, Business Insider, InsideHook\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cspan\u003e, and more. Her debut memoir, \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003eGirl Gone Wild\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cspan\u003e, with Trio House Press, is coming in March 2026!\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003e\u003cem\u003eRead \u003ca rel=\"noopener\" title=\"How a Newsletter Can Help Your Writing Career\" href=\"https:\/\/writingworkshops.com\/blogs\/news\/how-a-newsletter-can-help-your-writing-career\" target=\"_blank\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ean Interview with Courtney\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e on How a Newsletter Can Help Your Writing Career.\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003e\u003cem\u003eA successful newsletter creator spills her secrets for developing a newsletter that can be a foundation for your career or business. \u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eEvery writer should have a newsletter! It's a no-brainer in the Substack and ConvertKit era, which has seen newsletters like \u003cem\u003eMorning Brew\u003c\/em\u003e and \u003cem\u003eThe Hustle\u003c\/em\u003e turn into multi-million dollar businesses and launch the careers of best-selling authors like James Clear.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis masterclass with Courtney Kocak, founder of the newsletter \u003cem\u003ePodcast Bestie\u003c\/em\u003e (a best friend to aspiring and indie podcasters), will teach creative professionals to harness the power of direct content marketing to propel their audience, network, and business to new heights with a growing email list.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOver the course of this class, students will learn the art of launching and evolving a newsletter that serves as a strong foundation for their professional endeavors.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eIf you can't attend this class live, it will be recorded! Students will receive a recording the day after the class, which will be available for 30 days.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"sqs-block-content\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eCOURSE TAKEAWAYS:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eCourtney will share her advice for planning clickable and shareable content, sustainable editorial strategies, and cultivating a dedicated online community.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eThis workshop is explicitly geared toward writers, but whether you are an author, a podcaster, a freelancer, an entrepreneur, or an aspiring thought leader, this class will provide you with the essential knowledge and skills to create a successful and impactful newsletter.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eBy the end of the three hours, you'll have narrowed down your concept and come up with a solid plan for launching and growing your newsletter.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eYou'll receive a PDF containing a recap and resources.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eThis workshop will be recorded and available for 60 days afterward.\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCOURSE TESTIMONIALS:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\"Courtney Kocak's Starting a Newsletter seminar exceeded my expectations. Courtney provided concrete advice and information - and it was so nice to have someone talk about writing in a more practical, functional, and business-oriented way. The class was truly useful. Thank you!\" -former student\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\"Just a few weeks back, I took this phenomenal workshop! Courtney Kocak was an absolute gem, sharing many practical tips and providing an amazing PDF follow-up!\" -former student\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\"The thoroughness of Courtney Kocak's Start a Newsletter to Supercharge Your Platform, Network \u0026amp; Business seminar was highly impressive and inspiring, as was the way in which she gave time for our brainstorming with examples. I will definitely recommend this class.\" -former student\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\"If you find this platform-building thing mystifying, scary, or just need encouragement, you should sign up.\" -former student\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\"Some of the best cash I've spent this year.\" -former student\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"sqs-block-content\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003ePAYMENT OPTIONS\u003c\/strong\u003e: \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003eTuition is $99 USD. You can pay for the course in full\u003ci\u003e or\u003c\/i\u003e use Shop Pay or Affirm to pay over time with equal Monthly Payments. Both options are available at checkout.\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cul data-rte-list=\"default\"\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"\"\u003eSunday, June 14th, 2026\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"\"\u003eLive Seminar via Zoom from 11:00AM - 2:00PM Pacific\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eTuition is $99 USD.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Writing Workshops Org","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":44485460132088,"sku":"","price":99.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0287\/3917\/4532\/files\/Courtney_Kocak_Headshot_2.png?v=1773259273"},{"product_id":"how-to-build-a-platform-for-writers-who-shudder-at-the-thought-zoom-seminar","title":"How to Build a “Platform” for Writers Who Shudder at the Thought Zoom Seminar with Courtney Kocak on Saturday, May 30th, 2026","description":"\u003ch2\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSaturday, May 30th, 2026\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eLive Seminar via Zoom from 11:00AM - 2:00PM PST \u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eNow Enrolling! \u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAny questions about this class? Use the Chat Button to talk with us. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eInstructor Courtney Kocak is a writer, podcaster, and comedian based in Los Angeles. She wrote for Amazon’s Emmy-winning animated series \u003cem\u003eDanger \u0026amp; Eggs\u003c\/em\u003e and Netflix’s \u003cem\u003eKnow It All podcast\u003c\/em\u003e. She’s produced a slew of highly-ranked podcasts—including \u003cem\u003eThe Bellas Podcast\u003c\/em\u003e, which debuted at #1 on Apple Podcasts, PayPal’s \u003cem\u003eNever Stand Still\u003c\/em\u003e, and \u003cem\u003eGirlboss Radio\u003c\/em\u003e—and currently hosts three of her own with over two million downloads to date: \u003cem\u003ePrivate Parts Unknown\u003c\/em\u003e, about love and sexuality around the world, \u003cem\u003eThe Bleeders\u003c\/em\u003e, about book writing and publishing, and \u003cem\u003ePodcast Bestie\u003c\/em\u003e, a best friend to podcasters trying to grow and monetize their shows (and a popular Substack). As a writer, her bylines include \u003cem\u003eThe New York Times, The Washington Post, The Los Angeles Times, Cosmopolitan, BUST, Bustle, InsideHook\u003c\/em\u003e, and more. She’s currently working on a coming-of-age memoir in essays. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003e\u003cem\u003eCourtney Kocak will help you build a platform through newsletters, podcasts, social media, and more. And no, you don’t need to start your own podcast!\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe word \"platform\" as a noun necessary to have a writing career used to send me into a spiral. I wanted to be a writer, not an influencer, but book deals are often BYOP—Bring Your Own Platform.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eI resented the idea of having to be both as a prerequisite for success. It seemed like an insurmountable roadblock. I was envious of famous writers who didn't have to bother trotting out whimsical Instagram flat lays of their favorite books or trying to make their lunch a hilariously poetic moment on Twitter.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eI still have a love\/hate (mostly hate) relationship with social media, but in writing my recent book proposals and landing a dream agent, I realized I'd managed to build a decent platform in spite of myself. In this workshop, I'm sharing everything I've learned to help get you started and\/or optimized for the choose-your-own-adventure of building a writer platform.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"sqs-block-content\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCOURSE TAKEAWAYS:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eIn this workshop, we'll cover newsletters, podcasting, social media, and other options for platform building. By the end of the 3 hours, you'll have a solid plan for building your writer platform by leaning into your joys and strengths.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eI'll present inspiration from my favorite writer accounts and help you find a sustainable social media strategy that doesn't make you want to walk into the ocean.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eI will also share my tips for growing an audience on Substack without spending a ton of time.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eIt seems like everyone has a podcast these days, but I will help you use podcasts to build a platform, even if you don't want to start your own.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ePlus, I'll share some other platform-building ideas you might not have considered. \u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCan't make the live event? No problem. You can submit questions beforehand, and the workshop will be recorded and available for 60 days afterward. Afterward, you'll receive a PDF containing a recap and resources to help you execute your new strategy for building a platform.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCOURSE TESTIMONIALS:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\"Just a few weeks back, I took this phenomenal workshop! Courtney Kocak was an absolute gem, sharing many practical tips and providing an amazing PDF follow-up!\"\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\"If you find this platform-building thing mystifying, scary, or just need encouragement, you should sign up.\"\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\"Some of the best cash I've spent this year.\"\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"sqs-block-content\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003ePAYMENT OPTIONS\u003c\/strong\u003e: \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003eTuition is $99 USD. You can pay for the course in full\u003ci\u003e or\u003c\/i\u003e use Shop Pay or Affirm to pay over time with equal Monthly Payments. Both options are available at checkout.\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cul data-rte-list=\"default\"\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"\"\u003eThe class is on Saturday, May 30th, 2026\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"\"\u003eLive Seminar via Zoom from 11:00AM - 2:00PM PST\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIf you have questions, please use the Chat Button or contact us via email \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/writingworkshops.com\/pages\/contact\" title=\"Contact\" target=\"_blank\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHERE\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Writing Workshops Org","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":44600879644920,"sku":"","price":99.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0287\/3917\/4532\/files\/Courtney_Kocak_Headshot_1.png?v=1753734544"},{"product_id":"column-writing-workshop-get-bylines","title":"Land Big Bylines by Writing for Columns Zoom Seminar with Courtney Kocak on Sunday, June 28th, 2026","description":"\u003ch2\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSunday, June 28th, 2026\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eLive Seminar via Zoom from 11:00AM - 1:00PM PST \u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAny questions about this class? Use the Chat Button to talk with us. \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe session will be recorded and available to watch after the seminar concludes.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eInstructor\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.courtneykocak.com\/\" title=\"Courtney Kocak's Author Website\" rel=\"noopener\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eCourtney Kocak\u003c\/a\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eis a writer, podcaster, and comedian who splits time between Austin and Los Angeles. She wrote for Amazon’s Emmy-winning animated series\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003eDanger \u0026amp; Eggs\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/em\u003eand Netflix’s\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003eKnow It All\u003c\/em\u003e. She’s produced a slew of highly-ranked podcasts—including\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003eThe Bellas Podcast\u003c\/em\u003e, which debuted at #1 on Apple Podcasts, PayPal’s Never Stand Still, and Girlboss Radio—and currently hosts three of her own with over two million downloads to date:\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003ePrivate Parts Unknown\u003c\/em\u003e, about love and sexuality around the world,\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003eThe Bleeders\u003c\/em\u003e, about book writing and publishing, and\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003ePodcast Bestie\u003c\/em\u003e, a best friend to podcasters trying to grow and monetize their shows (and a popular Substack). Her bylines include\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003eThe New York Times, The Washington Post, LA Times, Cosmopolitan, Slate, HuffPost, Business Insider, InsideHook\u003c\/em\u003e, and more. Her debut memoir,\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003eGirl Gone Wild\u003c\/em\u003e, with Trio House Press, is coming in March 2026!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003e\u003cem\u003eRead \u003ca rel=\"noopener\" title=\"Read an Interveiw with Courtney About Teaching This Class\" href=\"https:\/\/writingworkshops.com\/blogs\/news\/mastering-the-media-an-interview-with-courtney-kocak-on-writing-podcasting-success\" target=\"_blank\"\u003ean interview with Courtney\u003c\/a\u003e about teaching this class.\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWriter\/instructor Courtney Kocak has gotten her best bylines by placing essays in popular columns. To help you take your publishing game to the next level, she will give you ten targets and generative prompts, along with a brief lesson on pitching.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCourtney will explain the crux of popular columns for top publications. You'll do a brainstorming and drafting exercise for each, and there will be an opportunity to workshop your ideas and ask questions. You'll receive a list of potential columns and editor contact information for each. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDuring class, we'll review example essays from popular columns, and by the end, you'll have a game plan for landing your best bylines yet!  \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eIf you can't attend this class live, it will be recorded! Students will receive a recording the day after the class, which will be available for 30 days.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"sqs-block-content\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCOURSE TAKEAWAYS:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eA strategy for landing bylines at top publications by writing for popular columns.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eDecoding the premise and angle of popular columns and identifying ideas that would be a good fit.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ePitching best practices.\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eThis workshop will be recorded and available for 60 days afterward.\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCOURSE TESTIMONIALS:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\"This was such a great experience. Thank you for your time and insights. :)\"\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\"Love this! Just wrote a draft! It is terrible, but there is a nugget in here to rewrite, so thank you!!\"\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\"This was an amazing class, thank you so much!!\"\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\"Just a few weeks back, I took this phenomenal workshop! Courtney Kocak was an absolute gem, sharing many practical tips and providing an amazing PDF follow-up!\"\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\"If you find this platform-building thing mystifying, scary, or just need encouragement, you should sign up.\"\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\"Some of the best cash I've spent this year.\"\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"sqs-block-content\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003ePAYMENT OPTIONS\u003c\/strong\u003e: \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003eYou can pay for the course in full\u003ci\u003e or\u003c\/i\u003e use Shop Pay or Affirm to pay over time with equal Monthly Payments. Both options are available at checkout.\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cul data-rte-list=\"default\"\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"\"\u003eThe class is on Sunday, June 28th, 2026\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"\"\u003eLive Seminar via Zoom from 11:00AM - 1:00PM PST\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIf you have questions, please use the Chat Button or contact us via email \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/writingworkshops.com\/pages\/contact\" title=\"Contact\" target=\"_blank\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHERE\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Writing Workshops Org","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":44987475788024,"sku":"","price":99.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0287\/3917\/4532\/files\/Courtney_Kocak_Headshot_1.png?v=1753734544"},{"product_id":"once-upon-a-time-using-fairy-tale-forms-to-write-better-in-any-genre-zoom-seminar-with-amber-sparks","title":"Once Upon a Time: Using Fairy Tale Forms to Write Better in any Genre Zoom Seminar with Amber Sparks on Saturday, April 4th, 2026","description":"\u003ch2\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eSaturday, April 4th, 2026\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eLive seminar via Zoom 10AM – 1PM CST\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThis class will be recorded if you cannot attend live. \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAny questions about this class? Use the Chat Button to talk with us. \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eInstructor Amber Sparks is the author of the novel, \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003eHappy People Don’t Live Here\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cspan\u003e, and a forthcoming short story collection, \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003eDid Parents in the Middle Ages Love Their Children? \u003c\/em\u003e\u003cspan\u003e(both from Liveright\/W.W. Norton), and four collections of short fiction, including \u003c\/span\u003e\u003ci\u003eAnd I Do Not Forgive You: Revenges and other Stories\u003c\/i\u003e\u003cspan\u003e and \u003c\/span\u003e\u003ci\u003eThe Unfinished World\u003c\/i\u003e\u003cspan\u003e. Her fiction and essays have appeared in \u003c\/span\u003e\u003ci\u003eAmerican Short Fiction, the Paris Review, Slate, Tin House, Granta, The Cut\u003c\/i\u003e\u003cspan\u003e and elsewhere.  \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMany writers dismiss fairy tales outright as childish stuff, sure that those simplistic tales and flat characters, full of easy magic and gated logic, could not possibly have anything to do with serious writing.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBut fairy tales are the building blocks of so many of our oldest stories and contain some of our oldest story forms, useful to everyone who writes - both fiction and non-fiction.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn this class, we'll talk about how to use the form, structures, elements, themes, and tropes of fairy tales in generating fiction and non-fiction in any genre, as well as in editing your writing and finding new ways to play with what you've got on the page.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNo need to have any prior fairy tale knowledge! You'll come as you are, and leave with two pieces of writing to build on. \u003cstrong\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis seminar is perfect for writers of all levels and genres who are looking to infuse their work with fresh, imaginative elements and timeless storytelling techniques. No matter what you write, this course will provide you with innovative tools to enhance your narrative craft and make your stories stand out.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCan't Make It Live?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eNo problem! The session will be recorded and available to watch after the seminar concludes.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCOURSE TAKEAWAYS:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eUnlock Timeless Storytelling Techniques: \u003c\/strong\u003eDive deep into the fundamental structures and elements of fairy tales and learn how to apply these timeless techniques to enhance your fiction and non-fiction writing. Discover how these ancient forms can breathe new life into your storytelling, making your work more engaging and resonant.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTransform Your Writing Approach: \u003c\/strong\u003eThrough interactive discussions and practical exercises, gain the tools to use fairy tale themes and tropes in your writing process. Whether you're drafting new pieces or editing existing ones, this course will show you innovative ways to play with narrative structure and character development, helping you to craft more compelling and imaginative stories.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCreate and Expand Your Work: \u003c\/strong\u003eBy the end of the seminar, you'll have two new pieces of writing that incorporate the unique elements of fairy tales. These pieces will serve as a foundation for future projects, showcasing your ability to blend classic storytelling methods with your own creative voice, and setting you apart in any genre you choose to explore.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eYOU'LL TAKE HOME:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eTwo pieces of writing to build on.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eNew and inspiring craft wisdom.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eFurther recommended reading, too.\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTAKE THIS CLASS IF\u003c\/strong\u003e:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eYou're finding the constraints of your current writing practice too limiting.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eYou want exposure to a range of new approaches to bring to your writing practice.\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eYou want an expanded sense of what is possible in your work.\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWHY YOU SHOULD SIGN UP:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWriters should sign up for this seminar to uncover the hidden potential of fairy tale structures and themes, which can enrich and transform their storytelling across any genre. With guidance from acclaimed author Amber Sparks, participants will learn to craft more compelling narratives and leave the course with two new pieces of writing that showcase their enhanced skills.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTESTIMONIALS:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"\"\u003e\"\u003cem\u003eOne of the more creative workshops I have ever taken. Amber Sparks really got me to think in different and creative ways. It was the right class at the right time for me.\u003c\/em\u003e\"\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"\"\u003e\"\u003cem\u003eI really enjoyed Amber Sparks' workshop on Fractured Narrative! Great list of possible approaches to non-linear story-telling with helpful references to specific author's works as examples. Good exercises. Really enjoyed the chat input from other attendees as well. Great value for the price.\u003c\/em\u003e\"\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"\"\u003e\u003cem\u003e\"I loved the specific ideas and recommendations about writings, authors, essays, etc, to check out, talking about specific elements of fiction. Honestly, for a 3-hour seminar, it was excellent!\"\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"\"\u003e\u003cem\u003e\"I really enjoyed the focused writing exercises in Amber's seminar. It was a lot of fun!\"\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"\"\u003e\u003cem\u003e\"This was the perfect balance between lecture presentation\/writing exercises\/ Q\u0026amp;A.\"\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"\"\u003e\u003cem\u003e\"I found everything about this class valuable, from the in-class readings, suggested readings\/media, writing exercises, class (chat) conversation, and friendly camaraderie, and the enthusiastic, knowledgeable, empathetic instructor. Would highly recommend it.\"\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"\"\u003e\u003cem\u003e\"I appreciated Amber's familiarity, love, and expertise of the genre fantastic, along with the excellent mix of example and practice writing. Plus, this was a well-timed class.\"\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"\"\u003e\u003cem\u003e\"Amber's class exceeded my expectations because of the time to write, edit, rethink, and share with others through a small group.\"\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"\"\u003e\u003cem\u003e\"I loved the concrete tips and techniques and playful exercises that helped us use them right away.\"\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"\"\u003e\u003cem\u003e\"Yes, this seminar was wonderful. It was full of ideas and insights that I found really helpful and that I'm hoping to use in my writing. I can't point to just one specific thing. The class completely exceeded my expectations.\" \u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"\"\u003e\u003cem\u003e\"I had high expectations from having taken a class with Amber before, and my expectations were certainly met and perhaps exceeded. This class provided so many stimulating ideas. Highly recommend.\"\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003ePAYMENT OPTIONS\u003c\/strong\u003e:\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eTuition is $99 USD. You can pay for the course in full \u003ci\u003e or\u003c\/i\u003e use Affirm to pay over time with equal Monthly Payments. Both options are available at checkout.\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cul data-rte-list=\"default\"\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eAmber Sparks | Live via Zoom\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSaturday, April 4th, 2026\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eLive Seminar Via Zoom 10AM – 1PM CST\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSeminar is fully ONLINE and meets via Zoom\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003eTuition is $99 USD.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Writing Workshops Org","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":45316310171896,"sku":"","price":99.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0287\/3917\/4532\/files\/Amber_Sparks_Headshot_2025.png?v=1770484233"},{"product_id":"using-the-literature-of-time-travel-to-play-with-time-in-your-writing-zoom-seminar-with-amber-sparks","title":"Using the Literature of Time Travel to Play with Time in Your Writing Zoom Seminar with Amber Sparks on Saturday, June 27th, 2026","description":"\u003ch2\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eSaturday, June 27th, 2026\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eLive seminar via Zoom 10AM – 1PM CST\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThis class will be recorded if you cannot attend live.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAny questions about this class? Use the Chat Button to talk with us. \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eInstructor Amber Sparks is the author of the novel, \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003eHappy People Don’t Live Here\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cspan\u003e, and a forthcoming short story collection, \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003eDid Parents in the Middle Ages Love Their Children? \u003c\/em\u003e\u003cspan\u003e(both from Liveright\/W.W. Norton), and four collections of short fiction, including \u003c\/span\u003e\u003ci\u003eAnd I Do Not Forgive You: Revenges and other Stories\u003c\/i\u003e\u003cspan\u003e and \u003c\/span\u003e\u003ci\u003eThe Unfinished World\u003c\/i\u003e\u003cspan\u003e. Her fiction and essays have appeared in \u003c\/span\u003e\u003ci\u003eAmerican Short Fiction, the Paris Review, Slate, Tin House, Granta, The Cut\u003c\/i\u003e\u003cspan\u003e and elsewhere.  \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTime travel stories, novels, and films are everywhere, and when done well, they seem impossible, dazzling - a rabbit pulled out of thin air, no hat required. But the writers who craft these stories aren't performing magic - they're simply using disciplined techniques, planning, and a little misdirection, too. And playing with time can be one of the coolest ways of injecting a little extra something into writing that's lying too flat on the page.  \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn this workshop, we'll talk about the history of time travel stories, play fast and loose with time in generating some writing of our own, and learn some techniques and moves that you can use to move backwards, forwards, sideways, and in a loop when it comes to time in your fiction or non-fiction.  \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYou'll leave with two pieces of time-bending writing to build on. \u003cspan style=\"color: black; font-family: Arial,sans-serif;\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCan't Make It Live?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eNo problem! The session will be recorded and available to watch after the seminar concludes.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCOURSE TAKEAWAYS:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMaster the Art of Time Manipulation in Writing: \u003c\/strong\u003eGain insider techniques to craft compelling narratives that traverse time with ease, making your stories as captivating and seamless as the best time travel fiction and films.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCreate Time-Bending Stories: \u003c\/strong\u003eThrough engaging exercises and expert guidance, produce two pieces of your own time-bending writing, ready to captivate readers with their inventive structure and intriguing plots.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eUnlock New Dimensions in Your Writing: \u003c\/strong\u003eExplore the rich history and endless possibilities of time travel literature, equipping yourself with innovative tools to elevate your fiction or non-fiction and make your narratives truly unforgettable.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eYOU'LL TAKE HOME:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eTwo pieces of writing to build on.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eNew and inspiring craft wisdom.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eFurther recommended reading, too.\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTAKE THIS CLASS IF\u003c\/strong\u003e:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eYou're finding the constraints of your current writing practice too limiting.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eYou want exposure to a range of new approaches to bring to your writing practice.\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eYou want an expanded sense of what is possible in your work.\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWHY YOU SHOULD SIGN UP:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis seminar is perfect for writers of all levels who are eager to experiment with time manipulation in their storytelling, whether they are working on fiction, non-fiction, or hybrid genres. If you want to add a unique, captivating element to your narratives and learn from a seasoned author, this course is for you.\u003cspan style=\"color: black; font-family: Arial,sans-serif;\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTESTIMONIALS:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"\"\u003e\"\u003cem\u003eOne of the more creative workshops I have ever taken. Amber Sparks really got me to think in different and creative ways. It was the right class at the right time for me.\u003c\/em\u003e\"\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"\"\u003e\"\u003cem\u003eI really enjoyed Amber Sparks' workshop on Fractured Narrative! Great list of possible approaches to non-linear story-telling with helpful references to specific author's works as examples. Good exercises. Really enjoyed the chat input from other attendees as well. Great value for the price.\u003c\/em\u003e\"\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"\"\u003e\u003cem\u003e\"I loved the specific ideas and recommendations about writings, authors, essays, etc, to check out, talking about specific elements of fiction. Honestly, for a 3-hour seminar, it was excellent!\"\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"\"\u003e\u003cem\u003e\"I really enjoyed the focused writing exercises in Amber's seminar. It was a lot of fun!\"\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"\"\u003e\u003cem\u003e\"This was the perfect balance between lecture presentation\/writing exercises\/ Q\u0026amp;A.\"\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"\"\u003e\u003cem\u003e\"I found everything about this class valuable, from the in-class readings, suggested readings\/media, writing exercises, class (chat) conversation, and friendly camaraderie, and the enthusiastic, knowledgeable, empathetic instructor. Would highly recommend it.\"\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"\"\u003e\u003cem\u003e\"I appreciated Amber's familiarity, love, and expertise of the genre fantastic, along with the excellent mix of example and practice writing. Plus, this was a well-timed class.\"\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"\"\u003e\u003cem\u003e\"Amber's class exceeded my expectations because of the time to write, edit, rethink, and share with others through a small group.\"\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"\"\u003e\u003cem\u003e\"I loved the concrete tips and techniques and playful exercises that helped us use them right away.\"\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"\"\u003e\u003cem\u003e\"Yes, this seminar was wonderful. It was full of ideas and insights that I found really helpful and that I'm hoping to use in my writing. I can't point to just one specific thing. The class completely exceeded my expectations.\" \u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"\"\u003e\u003cem\u003e\"I had high expectations from having taken a class with Amber before, and my expectations were certainly met and perhaps exceeded. This class provided so many stimulating ideas. Highly recommend.\"\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eONLINE COURSE STRUCTURE\u003c\/strong\u003e: \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThis class will meet via Zoom.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003ePAYMENT OPTIONS\u003c\/strong\u003e:\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eTuition is $99 USD. You can pay for the course in full \u003ci\u003e or\u003c\/i\u003e use Affirm to pay over time with equal Monthly Payments. Both options are available at checkout.\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cul data-rte-list=\"default\"\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAmber Sparks | Live via Zoom\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSaturday, June 27th, 2026\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eLive seminar via Zoom 10AM – 1PM CST\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eTuition is $99 USD.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Writing Workshops Org","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":45317443354872,"sku":"","price":99.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0287\/3917\/4532\/files\/Amber_Sparks_Headshot_2025.png?v=1770484233"},{"product_id":"creating-a-sense-of-place-in-fiction-nonfiction-or-memoir-one-night-zoom-seminar","title":"Creating a Sense of Place in Fiction, Nonfiction, or Memoir: One-Night Zoom Seminar with James Sturz on Wednesday, April 15th, 2026","description":"\u003cdiv id=\"yui_3_17_2_1_1585167500790_108\" class=\"row sqs-row\"\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eWednesday, April 15th, 2026\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe class will meet via Zoom, 7:00PM - 9:00PM Eastern\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eOpen to All writers!\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"col sqs-col-7 span-7\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"sqs-block html-block sqs-block-html\" data-block-type=\"2\" id=\"block-9bd4c6c3a222aea2e1f5\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"sqs-block-content\"\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eNOW ENROLLING \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAny questions about this class? Use the Chat Button to talk with us. \u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cspan size=\"2\" face=\"Karla,Tahoma,sans-serif,serif,EmojiFont\" color=\"#495762\"\u003e\u003cbr\u003eLed by \u003c\/span\u003eJames Sturz, author of the novels UNDERJUNGLE, set entirely underwater, and SASSO, set in the cave homes of Basilicata, Italy. His magazine and newspaper articles have run in more than 90 publications in the U.S. and abroad, including in \u003cem\u003eThe New York Times \u003c\/em\u003eand\u003cem\u003e The New York Times Magazine, The Wall Street Journal, The Atlantic, The New Republic, Outside, Men’s Journal, National Geographic Adventure, New York Magazine, Travel + Leisure, Playboy, Afar, Saveur, Organic Spa, \u003c\/em\u003eand\u003cem\u003e Yoga Journal\u003c\/em\u003e, among many others. Sturz's work has been published in 18 countries, translated into nine languages, and been anthologized in ITALY: THE BEST TRAVEL WRITING FROM THE NEW YORK TIMES and BEST FOOD WRITING 2007, among others.\u003cem\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cem\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThink of the settings in your stories as catalysts for your characters and engines for your plot. Learn to craft settings so they come alive and give your writing new depth.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/em\u003eCreating a sense of place means treating your settings as characters themselves—not as backdrops, but as catalysts and engines for change. Have you ever felt about a book, story, or film that the location was as important as any of its characters?\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eCreating a compelling sense of place involves far more than a simple description of the location’s physical attributes. It can include unusual or unique occurrences that could have only happened there, the sounds and smells that tell you unmistakably where you are, the history that gave rise to the characters’ personalities even without their knowledge, and the way the characters transform as they move from place to place over time.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eOver the course of this two-hour Zoom, you’ll learn to create settings that are multidimensional and that bring your writing new depth. James Sturz learned his craft writing travel articles for the U.S.’s top publications, and then began applying what he developed to essays and fiction, including two novels.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe class will consist of a 90-minute lecture, followed by 30 minutes for questions and answers.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"row sqs-row\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCOURSE TAKEAWAYS:\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThis is a class about craft. Students will:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e1) Learn techniques for creating complex settings that come alive.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e2) Develop tight narratives that make use of their settings’ most important features, while eliminating superfluous description.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e3) Recognize how settings will shape your characters.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e4) Understand the importance of never just saying what places are, but always what they are like.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003csection\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTESTIMONIALS:\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cbr\u003e\"\u003cem\u003eJames was definitely more than qualified to teach this course, in terms of his vast experience and industry knowledge. He also made himself available outside the class by email.\u003c\/em\u003e\" -Former Student\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/section\u003e\n\u003csection\u003e\u003c\/section\u003e\n\u003csection\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\"\u003cem\u003eJames is an excellent instructor. He has the ability to size up a pitch immediately and identify its strengths and faults. He is also rigorous in his criticism, and he tailors his comments to the particular student's\/pitch's needs very well. He also gives students a good idea of how editors will view pitches - what questions they'll ask, the kind of information they will want to know, what will grab their attention, etc. And he was open to questions throughout\u003c\/em\u003e.\" -Former Student\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/section\u003e\n\u003csection\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\"\u003cem\u003eWhat I liked most was James' willingness to be completely candid. If an idea was lousy or a query off he just gave it to you straight and then helped you fix it\u003c\/em\u003e.\" -Former Student\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/section\u003e\n\u003csection\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\"\u003cem\u003eJames Sturz was a great combination of low-key and wildly helpful. During the break I asked him a question and he gave me a suggestion of where to pitch an idea. I liked the way Sturz described the difference between magazine stories and books involving travel. He also demystified the travel part of travel writing, and got me out of the amateur mindset of vacation vs. writerly travel thinking. Thank you! When I have more time, I'd happily consider taking Sturz' longer course\u003c\/em\u003e.\" -Former Student\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/section\u003e\n\u003csection\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\"\u003cem\u003eThe class with James Sturz is the most helpful Mediabistro event I have attended. It is clear that James really takes his duty seriously to educate students and that he cares about helping fellow journalists. He was very patient with questions. I have recommended one-night classes to people in the past, but not longer classes. I did not get as much out of my 12-week memoir class as I did with one night of listening to James Sturz.\u003c\/em\u003e\" -Former Student\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/section\u003e\n\u003csection\u003e\u003c\/section\u003e\n\u003csection\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\"\u003cem\u003eJames was great! He had valuable information and presented it in a very straightforward way. He was motivating and I'm so glad that I signed up for this class\u003c\/em\u003e.\" -Former Student\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\"\u003cem\u003eI really liked James Sturz; he came across as smart, caring, and soft-spoken. He respected all questions and questioners and was clearly well versed and experienced in the subject\u003c\/em\u003e.\" -Former Student\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/section\u003e\n\u003csection\u003e\u003c\/section\u003e\n\u003csection\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\"\u003cem\u003eJames’ class was excellent. His material was perfect, he has a charming and pleasant manner, is certainly smart and accomplished and has great experience with which he is generous\u003c\/em\u003e.\" -Former Student\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/section\u003e\n\u003csection\u003e\u003c\/section\u003e\n\u003csection\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\"\u003cem\u003eJames' presentation was both interesting and informative. His delivery was very professional\u003c\/em\u003e.\" -Former Student\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/section\u003e\n\u003csection\u003e\u003c\/section\u003e\n\u003csection\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\"\u003cem\u003eThe teacher was very professional and knowledgeable. He had great comments on our work. James Sturz was a consummate professional and I did get value out of the class\u003c\/em\u003e.\" -Former Student\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/section\u003e\n\u003csection\u003e\u003c\/section\u003e\n\u003csection\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\"\u003cem\u003eI thought James' talk was enlightening; he is a thoughtful instructor; he made good points about travel writing\u003c\/em\u003e.\" -Former Student\u003c\/section\u003e\n\u003csection\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\"\u003cem\u003eThe class was inspiring. I got a lot of great tips on how to approach travel-writing\u003c\/em\u003e.\" -Former Student\u003c\/section\u003e\n\u003csection\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\"\u003cem\u003eI was very pleased with the seminar. James's presentation was pithy, frank, humorous and sprinkled with memorable anecdotes\u003c\/em\u003e.\" -Former Student\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/section\u003e\n\u003csection\u003e\u003c\/section\u003e\n\u003csection\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\"\u003cem\u003eJames was a great instructor - I appreciated his honest, straightforward delivery and really valued the experience of listening to a well-respected and talented writer speak\u003c\/em\u003e.\" -Former Student\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/section\u003e\n\u003csection\u003e\u003c\/section\u003e\n\u003csection\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\"\u003cem\u003eYou are an amazing writer and teacher, and I’m so glad our paths crossed\u003c\/em\u003e.\" -Former Student\u003c\/section\u003e\n\u003csection\u003e\u003c\/section\u003e\n\u003csection\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\"\u003cem\u003eThank you for your guidance and inspiration\u003c\/em\u003e.\" -Former Student\u003c\/section\u003e\n\u003csection\u003e\u003c\/section\u003e\n\u003csection\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\"\u003cem\u003eJames, many thanks for your expertise and guidance\u003c\/em\u003e.\" -Former Student\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/section\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cbr\u003ePAYMENT OPTIONS:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003eTuition is $99 USD. You can pay for the course in full or use Affirm to pay over time with equal Monthly Payments. Both options are available at checkout.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eONLINE COURSE STRUCTURE:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul data-rte-list=\"default\"\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eInstructor: \u003cspan size=\"2\" face=\"Karla,Tahoma,sans-serif,serif,EmojiFont\" color=\"#495762\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eJames Sturz\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eWednesday, April 15th, 2026\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eClass will meet via Zoom, 7PM - 9PM Eastern\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e Instructor James Sturz\u003c\/strong\u003e is the author of the novels UNDERJUNGLE, set entirely underwater, and SASSO, set in the cave homes of Basilicata, Italy. His magazine and newspaper articles have run in more than 90 publications in the U.S. and abroad, including in \u003cem\u003eThe New York Times \u003c\/em\u003eand\u003cem\u003e The New York Times Magazine, The Wall Street Journal, The Atlantic, The New Republic, Outside, Men’s Journal, National Geographic Adventure, New York Magazine, Travel + Leisure, Playboy, Afar, Saveur, Organic Spa, \u003c\/em\u003eand\u003cem\u003e Yoga Journal\u003c\/em\u003e, among many others.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFrom 2015 to 2018, he wrote a biweekly column for \u003cem\u003eCoastal Living\u003c\/em\u003e about building a house in Hawaii, and he is the contributing koan editor for Fathomaway.com. Sturz's work has been published in 18 countries, translated into nine languages, and been anthologized in ITALY: THE BEST TRAVEL WRITING FROM THE NEW YORK TIMES and BEST FOOD WRITING 2007, among others.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHis many awards include Winner, Destination Canada Award for Excellence for Adventure Writing 2017 and honorable mention in THE BEST AMERICAN SPORTS WRITING, 2010 and 2012.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eRaised in New York City and now based in Hawaii, Sturz is also a PADI Divemaster, ice diver, free diver, and Explorers Club fellow. From 2002 to 2015, he was Mediabistro’s travel-writing instructor in New York City, teaching introductory-level seminars, workshops, and master classes, as well as workshops and seminars on the mechanics of freelancing and pitching. Sturz graduated Phi Beta Kappa and Magna Cum Laude from Cornell University, where he studied creative writing with Alison Lurie, Robert Morgan, and Stephanie Vaughn.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Writing Workshops Org","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":45391463678200,"sku":"","price":99.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0287\/3917\/4532\/files\/JamesSturzHeadshot_38140eac-a600-428a-9399-c9e5635f414c.png?v=1705712791"},{"product_id":"social-media-for-authors-writing-seminar-online","title":"Think Like a Content Creator: Social Media for Authors Zoom Seminar with Sanibel Lazar on Sunday, June 7th, 2026","description":"\u003ch2 class=\"font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-normal leading-[1.7]\"\u003eSunday, June 7th, 2026\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003ch2 class=\"font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-normal leading-[1.7]\"\u003eLive Zoom Seminar from 10:00 AM - 1:00 PM ET\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-normal leading-[1.7]\"\u003e🌍 \u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eClass Times by Time Zone:\u003c\/strong\u003e Los Angeles (PDT): 7:00 AM – 10:00 AM \/ Chicago (CDT): 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM \/ New York (EDT): 10:00 AM – 1:00 PM \/ London (BST): 3:00 PM – 6:00 PM \/ Berlin (CEST): 4:00 PM – 7:00 PM\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-normal leading-[1.7]\"\u003eAny questions about this class? Use the Chat Button to talk with us.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-normal leading-[1.7]\"\u003eThe session will be recorded and available to watch after the seminar concludes. The recording will be available for 30 days (and you can download it and watch whenever, but you need to download within 30 days).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-normal leading-[1.7]\"\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eInstructor Bio\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-normal leading-[1.7]\"\u003eInstructor Sanibel Lazar's self-published debut, \u003cem\u003eTo Have and Have More\u003c\/em\u003e, achieved bestseller status thanks to relentless social media campaigning. Her second book, \u003cem\u003eDoes This Make Me Look Rich?\u003c\/em\u003e, is forthcoming from Union Square (2027). Sanibel's writing appears in \u003cem\u003eNYmag, ELLE, Air Mail, Literary Hub\u003c\/em\u003e, and more. You can find Sanibel on TikTok, Instagram, and Sad Rich Girls (via Bindery).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-normal leading-[1.7]\"\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0287\/3917\/4532\/files\/triptych_sanibel.webp?v=1772657933\" alt=\"\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-normal leading-[1.7]\"\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMeet the Teaching Artist:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-normal leading-[1.7]\"\u003e\u003cem\u003eIn the Writer's Studio: \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/writingworkshops.com\/blogs\/news\/meet-the-teaching-artist-tiktok-for-authors-with-sanibel-lazar\" target=\"_blank\" title=\"In the Writer's Studio: Sanibel Lazar on Transforming Literary Talent into Digital Currency\" rel=\"noopener\"\u003eSanibel Lazar on Transforming Literary Talent into Digital Currency\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-normal leading-[1.7]\"\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWho is this class for?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-normal leading-[1.7]\"\u003eThis online writing seminar is for authors at any stage — debut or established — who want to build an audience on social media but don't know where to start (or have started and feel stuck). Whether you have a book coming out, a manuscript in progress, or a backlist that deserves more attention, this class will give you a practical framework for creating content that actually works. No prior social media experience required.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-normal leading-[1.7]\"\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat to expect:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-normal leading-[1.7]\"\u003eBeing a brilliant writer doesn't automatically make you a social media natural. Why does creating a social media post feel Sisyphean when you're capable of writing an entire book? Because catering to ultra-short attention spans and writing great prose are not quite the same skill. Success on social media requires a combination of brand building, self-promotion, and a clearly defined product — your book.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-normal leading-[1.7]\"\u003eIn this live Zoom seminar, Sanibel Lazar will spend roughly 60% of the session covering the basics of video content (Reels, TikTok, YouTube). You'll discuss how the algorithm works, what's considered a \"good\" amount of views, the best time to post, how to engage with followers — and you'll get the tools to make your first videos.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-normal leading-[1.7]\"\u003eThe remaining 40% will focus on how to develop a content strategy that aligns with the book or collection you're selling. The most common mistake Sanibel sees writers committing on social media — including bestselling authors far more established in their careers — is making ads for their book. If you're a fledgling writer, you most likely won't build an audience if all you're talking about is yourself and your writing. To get eyeballs on your content and to amass followers, you need to provide what people scroll for: entertainment.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-normal leading-[1.7]\"\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat are the writing goals?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-normal leading-[1.7]\"\u003eIn this seminar, students will come away with a working content strategy tailored to their book, the practical skills to film and edit their first video posts, and a clear understanding of how to translate their writing into engaging social media content. Sanibel will provide real-time feedback on strategy questions throughout the session.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-normal leading-[1.7]\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCOURSE OUTLINE\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-normal leading-[1.7]\"\u003eThis is a single three-hour session covering both practical skills and big-picture strategy.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-normal leading-[1.7]\"\u003e\u003cem\u003ePart 1 — Practical Skills: \u003c\/em\u003eYou'll discuss the categories of video content (writer life \/ educational \/ trends \/ montage) and how to turn your book into digestible, compelling content. Sanibel will share her best practices for engagement (the art of strategic reduction: making complex themes and ideas graspable), the traps she fell into, and the differences between posting on TikTok and Instagram. She'll also describe what she's learned about how social media followers translate beyond the app (pre-sales, podcasts).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-normal leading-[1.7]\"\u003e\u003cem\u003ePart 2 — Big-Picture Strategy: \u003c\/em\u003eThe session will shift to how to approach social media with the same clarity and intention you bring to your writing. You'll discuss how to think like an editorial director, treating your content as a mini publication dedicated exclusively to featuring you and your book. Sanibel will break down the difference between video and static posts (and how to use both effectively), plus how to create engaging content that doesn't rely on the same tired milestone posts. You'll also cover the parasocial dynamic — what to share, what to withhold, and how to maintain boundaries while keeping potential readers invested. Finally, you'll analyze why bestseller status doesn't necessarily translate to success on social media.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-normal leading-[1.7]\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCOURSE TAKEAWAYS:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul class=\"[li_\u0026amp;]:mb-0 [li_\u0026amp;]:mt-1 [li_\u0026amp;]:gap-1 [\u0026amp;:not(:last-child)_ul]:pb-1 [\u0026amp;:not(:last-child)_ol]:pb-1 list-disc flex flex-col gap-1 pl-8 mb-3\"\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"whitespace-normal break-words pl-2\"\u003eThink like a product marketer: positioning yourself and your work\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"whitespace-normal break-words pl-2\"\u003eEstablishing name and book recognition (without being repetitive)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"whitespace-normal break-words pl-2\"\u003eDifferentiating yourself from the sea of other authors online\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"whitespace-normal break-words pl-2\"\u003eAnalyzing performance: what's working, what's not, and how to adjust\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"whitespace-normal break-words pl-2\"\u003eLogistics of content: best practices for filming, how to edit efficiently, how often to post\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"whitespace-normal break-words pl-2\"\u003eWhat to avoid: common writer content mistakes and why bestselling authors don't automatically succeed on TikTok\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"whitespace-normal break-words pl-2\"\u003eHow to use \"clickbait principles\" to make content that \"stops the scroll\"\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"whitespace-normal break-words pl-2\"\u003eWrite catchy headlines\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-normal leading-[1.7]\"\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCan't Make It Live?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-normal leading-[1.7]\"\u003eNo problem! The session will be recorded and available to watch after the seminar concludes. The recording will be available for 30 days (and you can download it and watch whenever, but you need to download within 30 days).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-normal leading-[1.7]\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePAYMENT OPTIONS:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-normal leading-[1.7]\"\u003eTuition is $99 USD. You can pay for the course in full or use Shop Pay or Affirm to pay over time with equal Monthly Payments. Both options are available at checkout.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-normal leading-[1.7]\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eONLINE COURSE STRUCTURE:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul class=\"[li_\u0026amp;]:mb-0 [li_\u0026amp;]:mt-1 [li_\u0026amp;]:gap-1 [\u0026amp;:not(:last-child)_ul]:pb-1 [\u0026amp;:not(:last-child)_ol]:pb-1 list-disc flex flex-col gap-1 pl-8 mb-3\"\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"whitespace-normal break-words pl-2\"\u003eInstructor: Sanibel Lazar\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"whitespace-normal break-words pl-2\"\u003eSunday, June 7th, 2026\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"whitespace-normal break-words pl-2\"\u003eLive Zoom Seminar from 10:00 AM - 1:00 PM ET\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"whitespace-normal break-words pl-2\"\u003eTuition is $99 USD.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"whitespace-normal break-words pl-2\"\u003eSeminar is fully ONLINE and meets via Zoom.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"whitespace-normal break-words pl-2\"\u003eThe session will be recorded and available to watch after the seminar concludes. The recording will be available for 30 days (and you can download it and watch whenever, but you need to download within 30 days).\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cdiv id=\"shopify-section-template--16524040667384__related-articles\" class=\"shopify-section section-product-related-articles\"\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c!----\u003e","brand":"Writing Workshops Org","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":45546130931960,"sku":"","price":99.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0287\/3917\/4532\/files\/SanibelLazarHeadshot_5b82fcc0-8768-4ecb-88f8-7d6edff54cbf.png?v=1759864176"},{"product_id":"get-to-know-the-editors-magazines-newspapers-publishing-panel","title":"Publishing Panel: Get to Know The Editors of Magazines and Newspapers with Katie Reilly on Monday, May 4th, 2026","description":"\u003ch2\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMonday, May 4th, 2026\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eLive Seminar via Zoom, \u003cspan\u003e2:00-4:00pm PST\/5:00-7:00pm EST\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAny questions about this class? Use the Chat Button (lower left) to talk with us\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-pm-slice=\"1 3 []\"\u003eLed by Katie Reilly, a freelance journalist and attorney based in the Bay Area in California. Katie's writing generally focuses on women's health, mental health and parenting. Her articles have appeared in \u003cem\u003eThe New York Times Magazine, The Washington Post, The Guardian, Elle Magazine, The Boston Globe, Newsweek, USA Today\u003c\/em\u003e and \u003cem\u003eHuffPost\u003c\/em\u003e, among other publications.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eGetting published is often a daunting process for writers. It’s hard to determine what the right publication or editor for your story is, and there is not enough information online. It can feel like there is a great divide between you and the editors that you hope to work with. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn this two-hour publishing panel, led by journalist Katie Reilly, we’re hoping to change that dynamic. In two separate forty-minute sessions, we’ll hear from two editors in each session\u003cem\u003e.\u003c\/em\u003e There will also be a ten-minute break at the end of the hour and a brief recap after each editor panel. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eGuest Editors will include:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/x.com\/rheanamurray?lang=en\" title=\"Rheana Murray, essays editor at Newsweek\" rel=\"noopener\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eRheana Murray\u003c\/a\u003e, essays editor at \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.newsweek.com\/\" title=\"Newsweek Magazine website\" rel=\"noopener\" target=\"_blank\"\u003e\u003cem\u003eNewsweek\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cem\u003eEmily McCombs, Deputy Editor at \u003ca rel=\"noopener\" title=\"Huff Post Personal\" href=\"https:\/\/www.huffpost.com\/section\/huffpost-personal\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eHuffPost Personal\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cem\u003eShannon Palus, features editor at \u003ca rel=\"noopener\" title=\"Slate online magazine\" href=\"https:\/\/slate.com\/\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eSlate\u003c\/a\u003e  \u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eConz Preti, Deputy Editor health + parenting at \u003cem\u003eBusiness Insider \u003c\/em\u003eand author of\u003cem\u003e \u003ca rel=\"noopener\" title=\"Too Pregnant To Move: A Pregnancy Journal by Conz Preti\" href=\"https:\/\/www.barnesandnoble.com\/w\/too-pregnant-to-move-conz-preti\/1134089847\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eToo Pregnant to Move: A Pregnancy Journal\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe editors will talk about the types of stories they’re looking for, what makes a compelling pitch and article, and what makes them want to work with writers again. We’ll also learn more about their writing process and insight into the media landscape. I’ll lead the panels with questions, but students are welcome to ask questions as well.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePlease note: We will not discuss the details of a pitch or how to write one. If you'd like additional information on that, you may want to consider taking \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/mailtrack.io\/l\/5e4abe53cc5db3084ab709579a019885559c0c8d?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwritingworkshops.com%2Fproducts%2Fgetting-published-with-limited-clips-zoom-seminar%3Fsrsltid%3DAfmBOoodbENL80AwaVhGbRaSc1u_a5G30zOF59H4pW6kyf5RqpuAl-Z8\u0026amp;u=9779192\u0026amp;signature=d2b1d101fe61ddc8\" class=\"ProsemirrorEditor-link\"\u003eGetting Publishing in Magazines \u0026amp; Newspapers Even With Limited Clips\u003c\/a\u003e first.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCan't Make It Live?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNo problem! The session will be recorded and available to watch after the seminar concludes.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eKatie's students have had their work published in the following places so far:      \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cem\u003eNew York Times \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.nytimes.com\/2023\/09\/12\/style\/tiny-modern-love-stories-i-know-something-she-doesnt.html\" class=\"ProsemirrorEditor-link\"\u003eModern Love\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.salon.com\/2023\/05\/29\/stanning-fandom-healing-trauma-boybands\/\" class=\"ProsemirrorEditor-link\"\u003eSalon\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/writingworkshops.com\/blogs\/news\/workshop-alum-dan-fogel-published-in-huffpost-personal\" class=\"ProsemirrorEditor-link\"\u003eHuffPost\u003c\/a\u003e    \u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cem\u003eSheKnows    \u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.insider.com\/wore-tux-instead-dress-family-wedding-queer-2023-5\" class=\"ProsemirrorEditor-link\"\u003eInsider\u003c\/a\u003e    \u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cem\u003eToday     \u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cem\u003eGood Housekeeping    \u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cem\u003eThe Independent     \u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cem\u003eWell + Good\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/writingworkshops.com\/blogs\/news\/workshop-alum-elizabeth-kleinfeld-published-in-the-boston-globe\" class=\"ProsemirrorEditor-link\"\u003eBoston Globe\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTESTIMONIALS:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cem\u003e\"Today's editor panel was amazing, Katie! Thank you for putting it together and moderating it. This was one of the most valuable two-hour sessions I have spent in a writing course. Thank you!\" -former student\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eONLINE COURSE STRUCTURE:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis seminar will meet via Zoom.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePAYMENT OPTIONS:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eTuition is $99 USD. You can pay for the course in full or use Shop Pay or Affirm to pay over time with equal Monthly Payments. Both options are available at checkout.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli dir=\"ltr\" role=\"presentation\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eInstructor: Katie Reilly\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli dir=\"ltr\" role=\"presentation\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eClass Starts Monday, May 4th, 2026\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli dir=\"ltr\" role=\"presentation\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe class will meet via Zoom at 2:00-4:00pm PST\/5:00-7:00pm EST\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli dir=\"ltr\" role=\"presentation\"\u003e\n\u003cspan\u003eTuition is $99.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eContact us\u003c\/span\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/writingworkshops.com\/pages\/contact\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003eHERE\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e\u003cspan\u003e if you have any questions about this class.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Writing Workshops","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":45868753125624,"sku":null,"price":99.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0287\/3917\/4532\/files\/GettoKnowTheEditorsMagazines_Newspapers_7d24ad43-5940-40c3-a358-fce9d1b4a9c8.png?v=1774460461"},{"product_id":"writing-goals-zoom-seminar-with-tawny-lara","title":"Set and Slay Your End of Year Writing Goals with Tawny Lara (Zoom) on Tuesday, November 10th, 2026","description":"\u003ch2\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTuesday, November 10th, 2026\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eLive Seminar Via Zoom 6:00PM – 8:00PM Eastern\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAny questions about this class? Use the Chat Button (lower left) to talk with us. \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eLed by Tawny Lara, author of \u003ca rel=\"noopener\" title=\"Dry Humping  A Guide to Dating, Relating, and Hooking Up Without the Booze By Tawny Lara\" href=\"https:\/\/www.penguinrandomhouse.com\/books\/730665\/dry-humping-by-tawny-lara\/\" target=\"_blank\"\u003e\u003cem\u003eDry Humping: A Guide to Dating, Relating, and Hooking Up Without the Booze\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e and \u003ci\u003eThe Sobriety Deck: Practical Practices for a Booze-Free Lifestyle\u003c\/i\u003e, and co-founder of the vinegar-based botanical beverage, (\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.drinkparentheses.com\/\" title=\"Parentheses Beverage\" rel=\"noopener\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eparentheses\u003c\/a\u003e).\u003cem\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThis class helps writers identify specific writing goals and provides actionable steps to actually accomplishing them in the new year. Whether you're working on something big, like a book proposal, or trying to find your voice as a writer, \u003cstrong\u003eSet and Slay Your End of Year Writing Goals\u003c\/strong\u003e is the course for you.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eParticipants will emerge from this seminar with clear, written instructions on how to identify and accomplish their end of year writing goals—plus tangible tips on how to use the rest of December to set yourself (and your writing!) up for success.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eTawny Lara shares from personal experience as an author, co-founder of a drink brand, and tired Millennial with a business degree. She’ll share how her past obsession with goal setting didn’t work and how setting realistic, controllable goals improved her writing (and her sanity!)\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSEMINAR TAKEAWAYS:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan id=\"m_8714549223821452038gmail-docs-internal-guid-7cf8a93a-7fff-7da3-eef1-640436f07aa1\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eIdentify\/Revisit Your Writing Goals: \u003c\/strong\u003eIt's tough to accomplish writing goals if you don’t know what your goals are. Tawny will guide you through a series of writing exercises designed to help you both identify your writing goals and create a path toward achieving them. This is also a great time to revisit your New Year's Resolutions, setting your writing goals up for success.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan id=\"m_8714549223821452038gmail-docs-internal-guid-7cf8a93a-7fff-7da3-eef1-640436f07aa1\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eGet Specific: \u003c\/strong\u003eWhether you’re working on a book proposal or trying to create a writing routine, Tawny will help you get specific and strategic with your goal setting.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan id=\"m_8714549223821452038gmail-docs-internal-guid-7cf8a93a-7fff-7da3-eef1-640436f07aa1\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTake Control: \u003c\/strong\u003eAccomplishing big goals is all about taking small actions. Tawny will help you break your writing goals down into actionable items by identifying what’s in your control vs what’s out of your control.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan id=\"m_8714549223821452038gmail-docs-internal-guid-7cf8a93a-7fff-7da3-eef1-640436f07aa1\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e15 Minute Q\u0026amp;A: \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003eAsk Tawny anything about publishing, DIY publicity, entrepreneurship, marketing, professional goals and more.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cspan id=\"m_8714549223821452038gmail-docs-internal-guid-7cf8a93a-7fff-7da3-eef1-640436f07aa1\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eJoin us if you:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eFeel overwhelmed by your writing routine (or lack thereof).\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eWant to feel more empowered as a writer.\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eHave an idea of your writing goals but need help breaking those goals into bite-sized chunks.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eNeed practical tips for life as a writer in the digital age.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTESTIMONIALS:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e“When it comes to non-fiction, a big part of an agent’s job is wrangling a book proposal together with their author. Digging into the why of the project, discussing platform, and the like. It only benefits you to be more prepared. The more you have in there, the better. When Tawny’s proposal arrived in my agent inbox and I opened it, it was like that scene in Pulp Fiction when they open the briefcase and all golden light shines out. It was perfect. And I called her the same day asking to work on the project. You’ll learn a lot from her, absolutely” -Eric Smith, author \u0026amp; Tawny’s agent\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e“The publishing world is a minefield, and Tawny is a Bloodhound. Over the past decade, she's learned how to navigate this clusterfuck of this industry, cutting through the BS, so you can actually get published and your voice heard.” -Zachary Zane, Author of \u003cem\u003eBoyslut, A Memoir and Manifesto\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e“Tawny is such an excellent resource for someone navigating publishing and proposals for the first time. I am a DIY-type who usually just uses Google to teach me everything, but having Tawny's help saved me weeks if not months of research and helped me feel extremely clear and prepared as I began the process. Very grateful for her expertise!” -Mariana Louis, archetypal tarotist\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\"Tawny Lara's class on writing non-fiction book proposals is a lighthouse for anyone eager to explore mental health topics with depth and empathy. Her expertise not only helps writers to craft impactful narratives but also to navigate the complexities of mental health with sensitivity and insight.\" - Sophie Saint Thomas, author of \u003cem\u003eReproductive Rites\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e“Tawny is not only an experienced journalist and writer, but she’s also a marketing wiz who can bring that extra special sauce to your book proposal. If you want to actually sell your book, there’s no one else that I’d rely on to teach me the 101.” - Irina Gonzalez, editor, journalist, and author of the\u003cem\u003e Raising Gen Alpha\u003c\/em\u003e newsletter\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\"Tawny is a master when it comes to marketing yourself as a writer. She will help you focus your vision and tap into insider knowledge of the publishing world.\" -Gemma Hartley, author of \u003cem\u003eFed Up: Emotional Labor, Women, and the Way Forward \u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e“Tawny will help you sell your book proposal. She knows the game, and she will teach you how to play it.” -Paulina Pinsky, co-author of\u003cem\u003e It Doesn’t Have to be Awkward\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\"\u003cem\u003eTawny, I wanted to take a moment to thank you for what was a chock-full-of-info book proposal seminar yesterday. I am so glad I came; it was worth my time in all respects! Thank you for being so generous and forthcoming and giving us so much knowledge about the book proposal process in such a clear and seamless way. I feel like every minute had something valuable to offer. My kind of seminar!\u003c\/em\u003e\" -former student\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePAYMENT OPTIONS\u003c\/strong\u003e:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003eTuition is $99 USD. You can pay for the course in full \u003ci\u003e or\u003c\/i\u003e use Affirm to pay over time with equal Monthly Payments. Both options are available at checkout.\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cul data-rte-list=\"default\"\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eInstructor: Tawny Lara\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTuesday, November 10th, 2026\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eLive Seminar Via Zoom 6:00PM – 8:00PM Eastern\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eTuition is $99 USD\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Writing Workshops Org","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":45951957893368,"sku":null,"price":99.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0287\/3917\/4532\/files\/Tawny_Lara_Headshot_3.png?v=1722440751"},{"product_id":"get-to-know-the-editors-literary-journal-publishing-panel","title":"Get to Know The Editors: Literary Journal Publishing Panel with Katie Reilly on Monday, April 13th, 2026","description":"\u003ch2\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMonday, April 13th, 2026\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eLive Seminar via Zoom, \u003cspan\u003e2:00-4:00pm PST\/5:00-7:00pm EST\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAny questions about this class? Use the Chat Button to talk with us.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe session will be recorded and available to watch after the seminar concludes.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-pm-slice=\"1 3 []\"\u003eLed by Katie Reilly, a freelance journalist and attorney based in the Bay Area in California. Katie's writing generally focuses on women's health, mental health and parenting. Her articles have appeared in \u003cem\u003eThe New York Times Magazine, The Washington Post, The Guardian, Elle Magazine, The Boston Globe, Newsweek, USA Today\u003c\/em\u003e and \u003cem\u003eHuffPost\u003c\/em\u003e, among other publications.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eGetting published is a challenging process for writers. It’s hard to determine where your story would be a good fit and there is often minimal guidance online. It can feel like there is a great divide between you and the editors that you hope to work with. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn this two-hour publishing panel, led by journalist Katie Reilly, we’re hoping to change that dynamic. In two separate forty-minute sessions, we’ll hear from editors from \u003cem\u003eBrevity, Bellevue Literary Review\u003c\/em\u003e, \u003ci\u003eBlack Fox Literary Magazine, \u003c\/i\u003eand\u003ci\u003e ONLY POEMS\u003c\/i\u003e. There will also be a ten-minute break at the end of the hour and a brief recap after each editor panel. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWe are very lucky that the following editors are scheduled to join us: \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eZoë Bossiere (she\/they), managing editor at \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/brevitymag.com\/\" title=\"Brevity Literary Magazine Homepage\" rel=\"noopener\" target=\"_blank\"\u003e\u003cem\u003eBrevity\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e and author of \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/bookshop.org\/p\/books\/cactus-country-a-boyhood-memoir-zo-bossiere\/6fe1e7d7f5421085?ean=9781419773181\u0026amp;next=t\u0026amp;\" title=\"Cactus Country A Boyhood Memoir Zoë Bossiere (Author)\" rel=\"noopener\" target=\"_blank\"\u003e\u003cem\u003eCactus Country: A Boyhood Memoir\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eAlanna Weissman, Assistant Nonfiction Editor, \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/blreview.org\/\" title=\"Bellevue Literary Review Homepage\" rel=\"noopener\" target=\"_blank\"\u003e\u003cem\u003eBellevue Literary Review \u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSvetlana Litvinchuk, Managing Editor, \u003ca title=\"ONLY POEMS website\" href=\"https:\/\/www.onlypoems.net\/\" target=\"_blank\"\u003e\u003cem\u003eONLY POEMS \u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eRacquel Henry, Editor in Chief of \u003ca title=\"Black Fox Literary Magazine website\" href=\"https:\/\/blackfoxlitmag.com\/\" target=\"_blank\"\u003e\u003cem\u003eBlack Fox Literary Magazine \u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe editors will talk about the types of stories they’re looking for, what should be included in your cover letter and what makes a story stand out to them. We’ll also learn more about their writing process and insight into the literary magazine landscape. I’ll lead the panels with questions, but students are welcome to ask questions as well.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCan't Make It Live?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNo problem! The session will be recorded and available to watch after the seminar concludes.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eKatie's students have had their work published in the following places so far:      \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cem\u003eNew York Times \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.nytimes.com\/2023\/09\/12\/style\/tiny-modern-love-stories-i-know-something-she-doesnt.html\" class=\"ProsemirrorEditor-link\"\u003eModern Love\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.salon.com\/2023\/05\/29\/stanning-fandom-healing-trauma-boybands\/\" class=\"ProsemirrorEditor-link\"\u003eSalon\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/writingworkshops.com\/blogs\/news\/workshop-alum-dan-fogel-published-in-huffpost-personal\" class=\"ProsemirrorEditor-link\"\u003eHuffPost\u003c\/a\u003e    \u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cem\u003eSheKnows    \u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.insider.com\/wore-tux-instead-dress-family-wedding-queer-2023-5\" class=\"ProsemirrorEditor-link\"\u003eInsider\u003c\/a\u003e    \u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cem\u003eToday     \u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cem\u003eGood Housekeeping    \u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cem\u003eThe Independent     \u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cem\u003eWell + Good\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/writingworkshops.com\/blogs\/news\/workshop-alum-elizabeth-kleinfeld-published-in-the-boston-globe\" class=\"ProsemirrorEditor-link\"\u003eBoston Globe\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eONLINE COURSE STRUCTURE:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis seminar will meet via Zoom.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePAYMENT OPTIONS:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eYou can pay for the course in full or use Shop Pay or Affirm to pay over time with equal Monthly Payments. Both options are available at checkout.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli dir=\"ltr\" role=\"presentation\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eInstructor: Katie Reilly\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli dir=\"ltr\" role=\"presentation\"\u003eMonday, April 13th, 2026\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli dir=\"ltr\" role=\"presentation\"\u003eLive Seminar via Zoom, 2:00-4:00pm PST\/5:00-7:00pm EST\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eContact us\u003c\/span\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/writingworkshops.com\/pages\/contact\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003eHERE\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e\u003cspan\u003e if you have any questions about this class.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Writing Workshops","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":45952716472568,"sku":"","price":99.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0287\/3917\/4532\/files\/GettoKnowTheEditorsLiteraryJournalPublishingPanel_74095e85-7743-424e-a2e2-07aff667edfe.png?v=1765983197"},{"product_id":"picture-book-writing-publishing-workshop-rosie-pova","title":"Writing and Publishing Picture Books Successfully Zoom Seminar with Rosie J. Pova on Saturday, April 4th, 2026","description":"\u003ch2\u003eSaturday, April 4th, 2026\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe class will meet via Zoom from 12:00PM - 1:30PM Central\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAny questions about this class? Use the Chat Button (lower left) to talk with us.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eRosie J. Pova is an award-winning children's book author, poet, writing coach, and speaker. Her picture book \u003cem\u003eSunday Rain\u003c\/em\u003e was featured in \u003cem\u003eThe New York Times\u003c\/em\u003e and \u003cem\u003eParents\u003c\/em\u003e magazine and has been translated into Arabic. She received a silver medal from the Readers' Favorite Awards for \u003cem\u003eThe School of Failure: A Story About Success\u003c\/em\u003e, and her next book, \u003cem\u003eSally's Musical Tale\u003c\/em\u003e, is set for release in spring 2025. Rosie enjoys visiting schools to inspire children to read, write, and pursue their big dreams. As a writing coach, she has guided many aspiring picture book authors toward publishing success.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003e\u003cem\u003eLearn more about Rosie in our \u003ca rel=\"noopener\" title=\"Meet the Teaching Artist: Writing and Publishing Picture Books Successfully with Rosie J. Pova\" href=\"https:\/\/writingworkshops.com\/blogs\/news\/meet-the-teaching-artist-writing-and-publishing-picture-books-successfully-with-rosie-j-pova\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eMeet the Teaching Artist\u003c\/a\u003e series.\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eJoin Rosie for an inspiring workshop that reveals how to write and publish your picture books traditionally. Learn the secrets to crafting unforgettable stories, polishing your manuscript, and navigating the publishing world with confidence.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBONUS: \u003c\/strong\u003eGet a checklist of the ultimate revision guide for a standout manuscript\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAre you ready to unlock the secrets to creating picture books that captivate young readers—and catch the attention of publishers? In this interactive workshop, join award-winning author Rosie J. Pova for an insider's guide to crafting, polishing, and publishing stories that resonate. Whether you’re just beginning your journey or looking to enhance your current manuscript, this session will empower you with the knowledge, skills, and industry insights to achieve your picture book publishing goals!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWho Should Attend:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis workshop is designed for aspiring and emerging picture book authors who are passionate about writing stories for children and are ready to take the next step towards publication.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBonus Takeaways:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eEvery participant will receive a checklist of the Top 5 Essentials for a Successful Picture Book Manuscript, as well the ultimate revision checklist for crafting a winning story.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDon't Miss Out!\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTake advantage of this opportunity to get expert guidance, valuable resources, and a supportive community of fellow picture book authors. With Rosie J. Pova as your guide, you’ll be on your way to writing, polishing, and submitting your picture books.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCan't Make It Live?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNo problem! The session will be recorded and available to watch after the seminar concludes.\u003cb\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eCOURSE TAKEAWAYS:\u003c\/b\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eThe Craft of Writing a Stand-Out Picture Book\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eUnderstand what publishers are looking for in today's picture book market\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eDiscover techniques for developing memorable characters and compelling story arcs that engage young readers\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eDive into language that’s fun, rhythmic, and perfect for read-aloud appeal\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ePerfecting Your Manuscript for Submission\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eLearn how to self-edit and polish your story so it stands out from the slush pile\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eExplore best practices for formatting and presenting your manuscript professionally\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eGet tips on how to strengthen your story’s hook, pacing, and themes\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eBuilding Your Author Brand and Navigating the Publishing World\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eGain insights on querying agents and publishers, including what they love (and what they avoid!)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eLearn practical steps for building a powerful author platform to establish your credibility and attract more readers\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eGet tips on maximizing your chances for publication through strategic planning\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eONLINE COURSE STRUCTURE:\u003c\/b\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis seminar will meet via Zoom.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003ePAYMENT OPTIONS:\u003c\/b\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTuition is $75 USD. You can pay for the course in full or use Shop Pay or Affirm to pay over time with equal Monthly Payments. Both options are available at checkout.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eInstructor: Rosie J. Pova\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSaturday, April 4th, 2026\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe class will meet via Zoom from 12:00PM - 1:30PM Central\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTuition is $75 USD\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eContact us\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/writingworkshops.com\/pages\/contact\"\u003e HERE\u003c\/a\u003e if you have any questions about this class.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Writing Workshops","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":45958300107000,"sku":"","price":75.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0287\/3917\/4532\/files\/RosiePovaHeadshot.png?v=1742305273"},{"product_id":"mine-your-life-for-funny-ideas-generative-zoom-seminar-with-caitlin-kunkel","title":"Mine Your Life for Funny Ideas Generative Zoom Seminar with Caitlin Kunkel on Saturday, June 6th, 2026","description":"\u003ch2\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSaturday, June 6th, 2026\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eLive Seminar via Zoom from 1:00PM - 3:00PM Eastern \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e🌍 \u003cem\u003eClass Times by Time Zone: \u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cem\u003eLos Angeles (PDT): 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM \/ Chicago (CDT): 12:00 PM – 2:00 PM \/ New York (EDT): 1:00 PM – 3:00 PM \/ London (BST): 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM \/ Berlin (CEST): 7:00 PM – 9:00 PM\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eNote: If you can't attend live, this class will be recorded. All enrolled students will receive a link to watch the recording, which will be available for 30 days.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAny questions about this class? Use the Chat Button to talk with us.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eInstructor Caitlin Kunkel's writing has been featured in \u003cem\u003eThe New York Times, The New Yorker, McSweeney's\u003c\/em\u003e, and on public radio. She co-founded the comedy site \u003cem\u003eThe Belladonna\u003c\/em\u003e, created the online satire writing program for The Second City, and co-created the Satire and Humor Festival. Her first co-written book, NEW EROTICA FOR FEMINISTS, was published by Penguin Random House and named one of the 10 best comedy books of the year by \u003cem\u003eVulture\u003c\/em\u003e (\u003cem\u003eNY Mag\u003c\/em\u003e). \u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eINSIDE JOKES, a humor writing craft book, co-written with Elissa Bassist, is forthcoming from Grand Central Publishing in 2026.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eQ: How do you come up with a wealth of ideas for funny parodies, satires, essays, novels, memoirs, or out-of-office replies? \u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eA: You mine absurdities, specifics, images, and more from your everyday life, then use comedic tools to spin them into premises for pieces.\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn this two-hour interactive and generative workshop, satirist and comedy craft book author Caitlin Kunkel will lead students through a series of lists and brainstorming prompts to gather specifics and interesting ideas hidden in plain sight. Come to class ready to write and get weird.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAfter generating the raw material, students will experiment with comedic foundations and tools like exaggeration, templates, and twists to create premises and titles for future funny writing. Everyone will leave class with a clear, repeatable process on how to mine and refine comedic ideas into publishable writing.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe end of class will focus on creative work strategies to draft, get feedback on, rewrite, and submit work on a (reasonable) schedule–because we’re funny, yes, but also professional.\u003cbr\u003e \u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"sqs-block-content\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCOURSE TAKEAWAYS:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"sqs-block-content\"\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eA practical, repeatable method to identify and develop humorous material from your daily life.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eStrategies for pushing everyday observations into surprising, laugh-out-loud premises.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eTechniques for testing and refining comedic angles, from parody and satire to personal essays.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eTips for balancing bold comedic choices with clarity and structure in your writing process.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eA roadmap for turning rough comedic ideas into polished drafts ready for submission\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"sqs-block-content\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTAKE THIS CLASS IF:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"sqs-block-content\"\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eYou’re ready to unlock unconventional sources of inspiration to spark comedic ideas.\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eYou want to move beyond clichéd humor and discover fresh twists on familiar topics.\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eYou seek a supportive environment to experiment with comedic voice, style, and format.\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eYou’d like to learn how to juggle humor-writing projects alongside other professional commitments.\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eYou’re excited to workshop your comedic premises and hone them into shareable, publishable pieces.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"sqs-block-content\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSTUDENTS LOVE CAITLIN:\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"sqs-block-content\"\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"\" style=\"white-space: pre-wrap;\"\u003e“Caitlin is an outstanding teacher. The time FLEW by because I was so engaged. So much amazing information and I feel energized to go write.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"\" style=\"white-space: pre-wrap;\"\u003e\"Caitlin Kunkel will teach you humor beats, how to do a writing sprint, and which kinds of 'babies' to kill in your jokes! All humor aside, I took her Comedy Writing for Non-Comedians workshop last year and left enamored by both the content and her teaching style. I've had bad experiences with online workshops that feel like a live session of what could've been a YouTube video. Caitlin and her workshops are the real deal. As a novelist, I've now taken her Comedy Writing, How to Write Like an Athlete, and How to Write a Short Humor Piece workshops, and they were all brilliant. Highly recommend it!\"\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"\" style=\"white-space: pre-wrap;\"\u003e\"I took Caitlin Kunkel's Mine Your Life for Funny Ideas seminar hoping to build a more intentional foundation for my comedy writing, and the class far exceeded my expectations! The level of engagement was incredibly helpful. Forming ideas firsthand in the workshop gave me a solid grasp of her tools and processes, and a sense of confidence I previously lacked. I can’t wait to continue future training and workshops with Caitlin!” \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"\" style=\"white-space: pre-wrap;\"\u003e\"Such a great class! \u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eIt was helpful, fun, and pitched at a really accessible level for experienced writers and novice writers.\"\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"\" style=\"white-space: pre-wrap;\"\u003e\"Thanks so much for the amazing class, Caitlin! I really learned a lot about humor in general, as well as what interests me specifically. I only recently started writing humor, and your focus on premise and format were insanely helpful. So thank you, seriously, for such an informative and fun class; I'll be taking so much of what you taught us into my future work!\"\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"\" style=\"white-space: pre-wrap;\"\u003e“Caitlin’s an excellent teacher. Her enthusiasm is infectious, her experience broad, and her generosity appreciated. I always look forward to a class with her.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"\" style=\"white-space: pre-wrap;\"\u003e\"Thank you so much Caitlin! You packed a huge amount of information into a very compact period. I’m very impressed with your follow-up as well. Way above and beyond.\"\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"\" style=\"white-space: pre-wrap;\"\u003e\"I thought Caitlin was amazing. She packed a lot of knowledge into the two hours, and I highly recommend it. The discussion of the impact of comedy writing across all types of industries was super interesting, and I loved the reading and website suggestions. I can't say enough great things about Caitlin.\"\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"\" style=\"white-space: pre-wrap;\"\u003e\"You are a gifted teacher – a lot of energy, insight and expertise come through. I am the one who teaches Creative Thinking at Harvard (and other places) and I was struck by how aligned your techniques are with the ones we teach in our class. Kinda’ cool. But we don’t follow up with materials half as well as you do.\"\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"\" style=\"white-space: pre-wrap;\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"il\"\u003e\"Caitlin\u003c\/span\u003e was engaging, entertaining, and provided an excellent intro into comedy writing.\"\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"\" style=\"white-space: pre-wrap;\"\u003e\"I loved the parallels between my writing life and my experience as an athlete. I found the \"warmup\" routine idea very useful and I'm eager to implement this. I also thought it was helpful to frame my writing life in terms of seasons or quarters.\"\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"\" style=\"white-space: pre-wrap;\"\u003e\"The entire approach of applying sports preparation and performance techniques to developing the skill of writing. Caitlin was generous with her examples without having them take over the entire course. Very well done.It was jam-packed with content, but the fast pace and depth of information was part of what was so good about it.\"\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"sqs-block-content\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003ePAYMENT OPTIONS\u003c\/strong\u003e: \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003eTuition is $99. You can pay for the course in full\u003ci\u003e or\u003c\/i\u003e use Shop Pay or Affirm to pay over time with equal Monthly Payments. Both options are available at checkout.\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cul data-rte-list=\"default\"\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"\"\u003eSaturday, June 6th, 2026\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"\"\u003eLive Seminar via Zoom from 1:00PM - 3:00PM Eastern\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eNote:\u003c\/strong\u003e If you can't attend live, this class will be recorded. All enrolled students will receive a link to watch the recording, which will be available for 30 days.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eTuition is $99.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIf you have questions, please use the Chat Button or contact us via email \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/writingworkshops.com\/pages\/contact\" title=\"Contact\" target=\"_blank\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHERE\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Writing Workshops Org","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":46066888212728,"sku":"","price":99.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0287\/3917\/4532\/files\/CaitlinKunkelHeadshot2025.png?v=1757622903"},{"product_id":"making-your-characters-physically-present-on-the-page-zoom-seminar","title":"Making Your Characters Physically Present on the Page: A Two-Hour Multigenre Craft Talk with Robert Anthony Siegel on Wednesday, August 12th, 2026","description":"\u003cdiv class=\"sqs-block html-block sqs-block-html\" data-block-type=\"2\" id=\"block-0c22edf6c5f4ee9d89a4\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"sqs-block-content\"\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eLive Seminar Via Zoom Wednesday, August 12th, 2026\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eClass will meet 7PM - 9PM Eastern\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eAny questions about this class? Use the Chat Button to talk with us. \u003c\/strong\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"\"\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eInstructor Robert Anthony Siegel \u003c\/strong\u003eis the author of a memoir, \u003ci\u003eCriminals\u003c\/i\u003e, and two novels, \u003ci\u003eAll Will Be Revealed \u003c\/i\u003eand\u003ci\u003e All the Money in the World\u003c\/i\u003e. His work has appeared in \u003ci\u003eThe New York Times, The Los Angeles Times, Smithsonian Magazine, The Paris Review, The Drift, The Oxford American, and Ploughshares\u003c\/i\u003e, and has been anthologized in \u003ci\u003eBest American Essays 2023, O. Henry Stories 2014, \u003c\/i\u003eand\u003ci\u003e Pushcart Prize XXXVI\u003c\/i\u003e. He has been a Fulbright Scholar in Taiwan, a Mombukagakusho Fellow in Japan, a Writing Fellow at the Fine Arts Work Center in Provincetown, and a Paul Engle Fellow at the Iowa Writers Workshop. He holds an MFA from the Iowa Writers Workshop.\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"background-color: white;\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn real life, we observe the people around us to understand what they are thinking and feeling. Facial expression, body language, clothing and other forms of adornment—all convey deep and meaningful information about the person in front of us.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBut what comes naturally in real life can be maddeningly hard to reproduce on the page. How do you make your characters vividly, physically present in your writing? How do you use their looks to reveal their personalities? This two-hour craft talk is designed to help.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThrough a mixture of lecture, discussion and creative exercises, this multigenre craft talk will show you how to capture a character’s physical presence on the page, using all aspects of appearance to convey the thought and emotion underneath. We will start by reading outstanding examples from published work and discussing the many ways people in real life reveal themselves through their looks. Afterwards, we will do a series of descriptive exercises that can be utilized in an ongoing project or can become the basis of a new one\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eClass Requirements:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOpen to all levels of experience and all genres. No preparation needed. Just come to class ready to write, explore, and share.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTake-Aways:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e-Techniques for making your characters physically present on the page\u003cbr\u003e-A series of short character descriptions that can be utilized in an ongoing project, or can become the basis of a new one\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eCan't Make It Live?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eNo problem! The session will be recorded and available to watch after the seminar concludes.\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"sqs-block-content\"\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"sqs-block-content\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTESTIMONIALS:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\"Full of richly drawn characters and jolting plot twists—Glasser’s time behind bars is especially chilling—Siegel’s debut novel works both as a parable of how quickly the high and mighty can fall, and as gripping drama. 'Money' well spent.\" -NEW YORK POST on ALL THE MONEY IN THE WORLD\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\"Early in this novel, there is a wonderful scene—rich with embarrassment—in which Louis Glasser, the altogether unlikely hero, helps his Harvard-educated son buy a new suit. The son’s fortunes founder, but that’s nothing compared to the perils that overwhelm his father—a lawyer who operates on the margins and becomes the target of a criminal investigation. Siegel’s … portraits (loving and otherwise) of the Glassers, New York prosecutors, and various lowlifes are right on the money.\" -THE NEW YORKER on ALL THE MONEY IN THE WORLD\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\"...Well-turned and elegant...Gloriously complex...\" -ATLANTA JOURNAL-CONSTITUTION on ALL WILL BE REVEALED\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\"...A richly detailed and seedily seductive narrative.\" -PUBLISHERS WEEKLY on ALL WILL BE REVEALED\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\"Robert's unique skill as a teacher comes from his enthusiasm not only for talking, which is present in many talented professors, but for listening... He has a reputation for being the best kind of teacher: generous, knowledgeable, demanding, and always at the ready with excellent advice.\" -former student\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\"The level of discourse was challenging and interesting and I think part of the reason for that was the casual atmosphere of discussion, fostered by Robert. When people are allowed to speak in an open, non-threatening environment, wonderful things happen.\" -former student\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"sqs-block-content\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eONLINE COURSE STRUCTURE:\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eLive Seminar Via Zoom.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"sqs-block-content\"\u003e\n\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePAYMENT OPTIONS\u003c\/strong\u003e:\n\u003cdiv\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003eTuition is $99. You can pay for the course in full\u003cspan style=\"box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003ci\u003eor\u003c\/i\u003e use Shop Pay or Affirm to pay over time with equal Monthly Payments. These options are available at checkout.\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cul data-rte-list=\"default\"\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eInstructor: Robert Anthony Siegel\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eLive Seminar Via Zoom Wednesday, August 12th, 2026\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eClass will meet 7PM - 9PM Eastern\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTuition is $99.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eContact us \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/writingworkshops.com\/pages\/contact\" title=\"Contact\" target=\"_blank\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHERE\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e if you have any questions about this seminar.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"sqs-block html-block sqs-block-html\" data-block-type=\"2\" id=\"block-51a8238b2f73df2e52ed\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"sqs-block-content\"\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"\"\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Writing Workshops Org","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":46165690908920,"sku":"","price":99.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0287\/3917\/4532\/files\/robertsiegelHeadshot_f9b51221-fdf3-4fd7-8a44-d32238b06d75.png?v=1703195669"},{"product_id":"how-to-write-a-short-humor-piece-zoom-seminar-with-caitlin-kunkel","title":"How to Write a Short Humor Piece Zoom Seminar with Caitlin Kunkel on Saturday, July 11th, 2026","description":"\u003ch2\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSaturday, July 11th, 2026\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eLive Seminar via Zoom from 1:00PM - 3:00PM Eastern\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e🌍 \u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eClass Times by Time Zone: \u003c\/strong\u003eLos Angeles (PDT): 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM \/ Chicago (CDT): 12:00 PM – 2:00 PM \/ New York (EDT): 1:00 PM – 3:00 PM \/ London (BST): 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM \/ Berlin (CEST): 7:00 PM – 9:00 PM\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eNote: \u003c\/strong\u003eIf you can't attend live, this class will be recorded. All enrolled students will receive a link to watch the recording, which will be available for 30 days.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAny questions about this class? Use the Chat Button to talk with us.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eInstructor Caitlin Kunkel's writing has been featured in \u003cem\u003eThe New York Times, The New Yorker, McSweeney's\u003c\/em\u003e, and on public radio. She co-founded the comedy site \u003cem\u003eThe Belladonna\u003c\/em\u003e, created the online satire writing program for The Second City, and co-created the Satire and Humor Festival. Her first co-written book, NEW EROTICA FOR FEMINISTS, was published by Penguin Random House and named one of the 10 best comedy books of the year by \u003cem\u003eVulture\u003c\/em\u003e (\u003cem\u003eNY Mag\u003c\/em\u003e). \u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eINSIDE JOKES, a humor writing craft book, co-written with Elissa Bassist, is forthcoming from Grand Central Publishing in 2026.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDo you want to write funny in 750 words or less? Do you have something to say on a topic you know well? Do you crave fun, need an outlet for your creativity, and hunger for more bylines? Then, short humor is for you.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn this two-hour class, writer and creator of The Second City’s online satire writing program, Caitlin Kunkel, will teach a repeatable process for writing a short humor piece in the style of \u003cem\u003eMcSweeney’s Internet Tendency, The Belladonna, Points in Case\u003c\/em\u003e, and other online sites (note: we will not cover satirical news like \u003cem\u003eThe Onion \u003c\/em\u003eor\u003cem\u003e Reductress\u003c\/em\u003e).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYou’ll learn how to brainstorm, find a structure for your piece, craft a strong comedic premise and title, and use the two-list system of joke writing to fast draft a humor piece.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCome ready to write and leave with a new piece and a set process to write even more in the future.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"sqs-block-content\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eSTUDENTS LOVE CAITLIN:\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"sqs-block-content\"\u003e“Caitlin is an outstanding teacher. The time FLEW by because I was so engaged. So much amazing information and I feel energized to go write.”\u003cstrong\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"sqs-block-content\"\u003e\"First of all, I can't thank you enough for the amazing class. I'm not kidding when I say it's the best online writing course I've ever taken. You packed so much information into two hours. Just incredible!!\"\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"sqs-block-content\"\u003e\"Caitlin Kunkel will teach you humor beats, how to do a writing sprint, and which kinds of 'babies' to kill in your jokes! All humor aside, I took her Comedy Writing for Non-Comedians workshop last year and left enamored by both the content and her teaching style. I've had bad experiences with online workshops that feel like a live session of what could've been a YouTube video. Caitlin and her workshops are the real deal. As a novelist, I've now taken her Comedy Writing, How to Write Like an Athlete, and How to Write a Short Humor Piece workshops, and they were all brilliant. Highly recommend it!\"\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"sqs-block-content\"\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\"I took Caitlin Kunkel's Mine Your Life for Funny Ideas seminar hoping to build a more intentional foundation for my comedy writing, and the class far exceeded my expectations! The level of engagement was incredibly helpful. Forming ideas firsthand in the workshop gave me a solid grasp of her tools and processes, and a sense of confidence I previously lacked. I can’t wait to continue future training and workshops with Caitlin!” \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\"Thanks so much for the amazing class, Caitlin! I really learned a lot about humor in general, as well as what interests me specifically. I only recently started writing humor, and your focus on premise and format were insanely helpful. So thank you, seriously, for such an informative and fun class; I'll be taking so much of what you taught us into my future work!\"\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"sqs-block-content\"\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"\" style=\"white-space: pre-wrap;\"\u003e\u003cbr\u003e“Caitlin’s an excellent teacher. Her enthusiasm is infectious, her experience broad, and her generosity appreciated. I always look forward to a class with her.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"\" style=\"white-space: pre-wrap;\"\u003e\"Thank you so much Caitlin! You packed a huge amount of information into a very compact period. I’m very impressed with your follow-up as well. Way above and beyond.\"\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"\" style=\"white-space: pre-wrap;\"\u003e\"I thought Caitlin was amazing. She packed a lot of knowledge into the two hours, and I highly recommend it. The discussion of the impact of comedy writing across all types of industries was super interesting, and I loved the reading and website suggestions. I can't say enough great things about Caitlin.\"\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"\" style=\"white-space: pre-wrap;\"\u003e\"You are a gifted teacher – a lot of energy, insight and expertise come through. I am the one who teaches Creative Thinking at Harvard (and other places) and I was struck by how aligned your techniques are with the ones we teach in our class. Kinda’ cool. But we don’t follow up with materials half as well as you do.\"\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"\" style=\"white-space: pre-wrap;\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"il\"\u003e\"Caitlin\u003c\/span\u003e was engaging, entertaining, and provided an excellent intro into comedy writing.\"\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"sqs-block-content\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003ePAYMENT OPTIONS\u003c\/strong\u003e: \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003eTuition is $99 USD. You can pay for the course in full\u003ci\u003e or\u003c\/i\u003e use Shop Pay or Affirm to pay over time with equal Monthly Payments. Both options are available at checkout.\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cul data-rte-list=\"default\"\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eClass is on Saturday, July 11th, 2026, via Zoom from 1:00PM ET - 3:00PM ET \u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eNote: If you can't attend live, this class will be recorded. All enrolled students will receive a link to watch the recording, which will be available for 30 days.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Writing Workshops Org","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":46180804428024,"sku":"","price":99.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0287\/3917\/4532\/files\/CaitlinKunkelHeadshot2025.png?v=1757622903"},{"product_id":"the-multi-passionate-writers-life-zoom-seminar-with-courtney-kocak","title":"The Multi-Passionate Writer's Life Zoom Seminar with Courtney Kocak on Saturday, May 2nd, 2026","description":"\u003ch2\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e \u003cspan\u003eSaturday, May 2nd\u003c\/span\u003e, 2026\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eLive Seminar via Zoom from 11:00AM - 1:00PM PST \u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e🌍 \u003cem\u003eClass Times by Time Zone: \u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003eLos Angeles (PST): 11:00 AM – 1:00 PM \/ Chicago (CST): 1:00 PM – 3:00 PM \/ New York (EST): 2:00 PM – 4:00 PM \/London (GMT): 7:00 PM – 9:00 PM \/ Berlin (CET): 8:00 PM – 10:00 PM\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAny questions about this class? Use the Chat Button to talk with us. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe session will be recorded and available to watch after the seminar concludes.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSPECIAL GIFT:\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003eA copy of Courtney’s debut memoir,\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003eGirl Gone Wild\u003c\/em\u003e, is included in the price of this course and will be mailed to you shortly after the book’s release in April.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eInstructor Courtney Kocak is a writer, podcaster, and comedian based in Los Angeles. She wrote for Amazon’s Emmy-winning animated series \u003cem\u003eDanger \u0026amp; Eggs\u003c\/em\u003e and Netflix’s \u003cem\u003eKnow It All podcast\u003c\/em\u003e. She’s produced a slew of highly-ranked podcasts—including \u003cem\u003eThe Bellas Podcast\u003c\/em\u003e, which debuted at #1 on Apple Podcasts, PayPal’s \u003cem\u003eNever Stand Still\u003c\/em\u003e, and \u003cem\u003eGirlboss Radio\u003c\/em\u003e—and currently hosts three of her own with over two million downloads to date: \u003cem\u003ePrivate Parts Unknown\u003c\/em\u003e, about love and sexuality around the world, \u003cem\u003eThe Bleeders\u003c\/em\u003e, about book writing and publishing, and \u003cem\u003ePodcast Bestie\u003c\/em\u003e, a best friend to podcasters trying to grow and monetize their shows (and a popular Substack). As a writer, her bylines include \u003cem\u003eThe New York Times, The Washington Post, The Los Angeles Times, Cosmopolitan, BUST, Bustle, InsideHook\u003c\/em\u003e, and more. She’s currently working on a coming-of-age memoir in essays. \u003cem\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003cem\u003eYour blueprint for developing and adapting a story or concept across multiple mediums.\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAre you a writer with big ideas and a passion for storytelling that won’t be confined to just one format? The Multi-Passionate Writer’s Life is designed to help you take a concept or story idea and successfully adapt it across multiple mediums—whether that’s essays, books, podcasts, newsletters, scripts, or beyond.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYou’ll learn how to identify the core themes of your work, play to your strengths as a writer and preferred mediums, and strategically expand your reach. Instructor Courtney Kocak—writer, podcaster, and multi-hyphenate creator—will share real-world examples from her own career, along with hard-earned best practices for navigating different formats.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWe’ll also dive into the business side: how to pitch your ideas, repurpose content effectively, and maximize your productivity without burnout. Whether you’re a journalist looking to break into podcasting, a memoirist dreaming of making a short film, or a newsletter writer aiming for a book deal, this course will give you the tools to evolve your ideas and build a sustainable, multi-platform writing career.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eIf you can't attend this class live, it will be recorded! Students will receive a recording the day after the class, which will be available for 30 days.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"sqs-block-content\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCOURSE TAKEAWAYS:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eDiscover the art of adaptation.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eLearn how to take a single concept and reshape it for various mediums, from personal essays to scripted content. Build a cohesive creative ecosystem.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eDevelop a strategy for cross-pollination between projects, so your work builds upon itself instead of competing for your attention.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eUnderstand the business of multi-format storytelling.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eGain insights into pitching, selling, and monetizing your work across different industries. Repurpose like a pro.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eDiscover how to repurpose content in fresh and compelling ways without feeling redundant. Avoid creative burnout.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eLearn time management and workflow strategies to sustain your energy while juggling multiple projects. Expand your audience \u0026amp; opportunities.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eIdentify new ways to grow your audience and create new professional opportunities by diversifying your creative output.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCOURSE TESTIMONIALS:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\"This was such a great experience. Thank you for your time and insights. :)\"\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\"Love this! Just wrote a draft! It is terrible, but there is a nugget in here to rewrite, so thank you!!\"\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\"This was an amazing class, thank you so much!!\"\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\"Just a few weeks back, I took this phenomenal workshop! Courtney Kocak was an absolute gem, sharing many practical tips and providing an amazing PDF follow-up!\"\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\"If you find this platform-building thing mystifying, scary, or just need encouragement, you should sign up.\"\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\"Some of the best cash I've spent this year.\"\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"sqs-block-content\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003ePAYMENT OPTIONS\u003c\/strong\u003e: \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003eTuition is $99 USD. You can pay for the course in full\u003ci\u003e or\u003c\/i\u003e use Shop Pay or Affirm to pay over time with equal Monthly Payments. Both options are available at checkout.\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cul data-rte-list=\"default\"\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"\"\u003eThe class is on Saturday, May 2nd, 2026\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"\"\u003eLive Seminar via Zoom from 11:00AM - 1:00PM PST\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e🌍 \u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eClass Times by Time Zone: \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003eLos Angeles (PST): 11:00 AM – 1:00 PM \/ Chicago (CST): 1:00 PM – 3:00 PM \/ New York (EST): 2:00 PM – 4:00 PM \/London (GMT): 7:00 PM – 9:00 PM \/ Berlin (CET): 8:00 PM – 10:00 PM\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Writing Workshops Org","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":46202622148856,"sku":"","price":99.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0287\/3917\/4532\/files\/Courtney_Kocak_Headshot_2.png?v=1773259273"},{"product_id":"pitch-perfect-crafting-a-compelling-nonfiction-book-proposal-zoom-seminar-with-literary-agent-mark-owen-gottlieb","title":"Pitch Perfect: Crafting a Compelling Nonfiction Book Proposal Zoom Seminar with Literary Agent Mark Owen Gottlieb on Saturday, May 16th, 2026","description":"\u003ch2\u003eSaturday, May 16th, 2026\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eLive Seminar Via Zoom\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eStarts at 1PM EST\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e🌍 \u003cem\u003eClass Times by Time Zone: \u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003eLos Angeles (PST): 10:00 AM – 12 PM \/ Chicago (CST): 12:00 PM – 2:00 PM \/ New York (EST): 1:00 PM – 3:00 PM \/ London (GMT): 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM \/ Berlin (CET): 7:00 PM – 9:00 PM\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAny questions about this class? Use the Chat Button to talk with us.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e*A recording of this seminar will be made available to enrollees.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eLed by an industry-leading literary agent at Trident Media Group, \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.tridentmediagroup.com\/agents\/mark-gottlieb\/\" title=\"Trident Media Group\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eMark Owen Gottlieb\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA well-crafted book proposal is the key to securing a literary agent and landing a publishing deal.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn this workshop, you'll learn how to structure a compelling nonfiction book proposal that highlights your book’s marketability, audience, and unique selling points.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWe’ll break down the essential components—hook, overview, competitive analysis, chapter outline, and author platform—while exploring what agents and publishers look for in a winning pitch.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhether you're refining an existing proposal or starting from scratch, this session will equip you with the tools to make your book stand out in the competitive publishing landscape.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMark Owen Gottlieb\u003c\/strong\u003e is a highly-ranked literary agent in overall deals and other categories. He is actively building his client list of authors using that same initiative and insight for identifying talented writers. Mark Gottlieb is excited to work directly with authors, helping to manage and grow their careers with all of the unique resources available at book publishing’s leading literary agency, Trident Media Group. At Trident Media Group, Mark Gottlieb has represented numerous \u003cem\u003eNew York Times\u003c\/em\u003e bestselling and award-winning authors. He has optioned and sold books to film and TV production companies. He previously ran the agency’s audiobook department and worked in foreign rights. Mark Gottlieb is actively seeking submissions in all categories and genres and looking forward to bringing new and established authors to the curious minds of their future readers.\u003cstrong\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCOURSE TAKEAWAYS:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHow to Captivate Readers and Agents From the Start: \u003c\/strong\u003eLearn to craft an irresistible hook and clear overview that immediately conveys why your nonfiction book idea is timely, relevant, and impossible to ignore.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBuilding a Strong Market Case for Your Book: \u003c\/strong\u003eExplore techniques for conducting a thoughtful competitive analysis and articulating your book’s unique position, ensuring agents and publishers see its commercial potential.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eStructuring an Engaging Chapter Outline: \u003c\/strong\u003eDiscover how to create an outline that not only organizes your content in a logical manner but also showcases the forward momentum and depth of your story or argument.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHarnessing the Power of Your Author Platform: \u003c\/strong\u003eUnderstand how to present your credentials, professional network, and following to demonstrate your ability to drive interest and sales in today’s competitive market.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eRefining Your Proposal for Publication Success: \u003c\/strong\u003eGain practical insights into polishing every element—style, voice, clarity, and marketability—so your pitch stands out and resonates with agents and publishers.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAUTHOR TESTIMONIALS: \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e“To find someone in the publishing world these days who possesses such style and grace…a throwback. Crown moldings and brass door knocker in a world of prefab housing. —\u003cstrong\u003eLesley Kagen, \u003cem\u003eNew York Times\u003c\/em\u003e bestselling author \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e“He is professional, knowledgeable, and deeply cares about the careers of his clients. …I'm lucky to have Mark in my corner!” —\u003cstrong\u003eAlan Hlad, \u003cem\u003eUSA Today\u003c\/em\u003e bestselling author \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e“My writing career never would have advanced as fast or as far without Mark's help.” —\u003cstrong\u003eJames Breakwell, bestselling author \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e“He goes above and beyond his work expectations by cultivating caring relationships with his clients, always expressing empathy and patience. He is kind, supportive and knows what he's doing.” —\u003cstrong\u003eRuby Karp, author of \u003cem\u003eEarth Hates Me\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSTUDENT TESTIMONIALS: \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\"I wanted to thank you for your time this weekend for the Hook and Query writing seminar. It's hard to know from reading articles alone what a query letter or pitch should look like.\" -\u003cstrong\u003eJed H., Workshop Student\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\"It was my absolute pleasure to meet you virtually on Saturday! Thank you for the wealth of detailed information and on-the-spot, yet carefully crafted critiques you shared with each of us— the experience is treasured, and invaluable.\" -\u003cstrong\u003eMica K., Workshop Student\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\"Saturday’s class opened my eyes to the mistakes of my query submissions, which boil down to two crucial elements: word count \u0026amp; comps. Soliciting a bloated manuscript with no comps outside of a couple of 20+ year-old movie references advertised a novice understanding of the publishing industry, making me a rightful candidate for the rejection pile.\" -\u003cstrong\u003eWilliam W., Workshop Student\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\"Thank you, Mark, for this wonderful workshop!\" -\u003cstrong\u003eDiane G., Workshop Student\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan color=\"#000000\"\u003e“You gave me enough writing technique and marketing information to feel like I can get started with confidence. Thank you!” \u003cstrong\u003e— Workshop Student\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e“Thank you for being so diligent, so focused and so professional in your approach to the class. I found the whole experience exceeded my most optimistic expectations.” \u003cstrong\u003e— Workshop Student\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eONLINE COURSE STRUCTURE:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis Workshop will meet via Zoom on Saturday, May 16th, 2026\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSession 1 will be 1:00 PM – 1:45 PM EST\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e15-minute Break Between Sessions\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSession 2 will be 1:55 PM – 3:00 PM EST\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e*Recordings of all sessions will be made available to everyone who enrolls.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePAYMENT OPTIONS:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eYou can pay for the course in full or use Shop Pay or Affirm to pay over time with equal Monthly Payments. Both options are available at checkout.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eMark Owen Gottlieb | Live via Zoom\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSaturday, May 16th, 2026\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSeminar is fully ONLINE and meets via Zoom\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e🌍 \u003cem\u003eClass Times by Time Zone: \u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003eLos Angeles (PST): 10:00 AM – 12 PM \/ Chicago (CST): 12:00 PM – 2:00 PM \/ New York (EST): 1:00 PM – 3:00 PM \/ London (GMT): 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM \/ Berlin (CET): 7:00 PM – 9:00 PM\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Writing Workshops Org","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":46276902027512,"sku":"","price":99.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0287\/3917\/4532\/files\/Crafting_a_Compelling_Nonfiction_Book_Proposal_Mark_Owen_Gottlieb.png?v=1755014142"},{"product_id":"the-art-of-the-first-page-hooking-agents-and-readers-zoom-seminar-with-literary-agent-mark-owen-gottlieb","title":"The Art of the First Page: Hooking Agents and Readers Zoom Seminar with Literary Agent Mark Owen Gottlieb on Saturday, April 18th, 2026","description":"\u003ch2\u003eSaturday, April 18th, 2026\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eLive Seminar Via Zoom from 1PM - 3PM Eastern\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e🌍 \u003cem\u003eClass Times by Time Zone: \u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003eLos Angeles (PST): 10:00 AM – 12 PM \/ Chicago (CST): 12:00 PM – 2:00 PM \/ New York (EST): 1:00 PM – 3:00 PM \/ London (GMT): 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM \/ Berlin (CET): 7:00 PM – 9:00 PM\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAny questions about this class? Use the Chat Button to talk with us.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e*A recording of this seminar will be made available to enrollees.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eLed by an industry-leading literary agent at Trident Media Group, \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.tridentmediagroup.com\/agents\/mark-gottlieb\/\" title=\"Trident Media Group\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eMark Owen Gottlieb\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYour first page is your first impression—and in today’s competitive publishing landscape, it has to be unforgettable. Whether you're querying agents, submitting to editors, or enticing readers to keep turning pages, your opening must captivate, intrigue, and compel.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn The Art of the First Page, we’ll explore what makes a compelling opening, from crafting an irresistible hook to establishing character, voice, and tension right from the start. We’ll analyze successful first pages, discuss common pitfalls, and workshop participants’ openings to ensure they grab attention for all the right reasons.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBy the end of this session, you’ll have a sharpened understanding of how to make your first page impossible to ignore—and the tools to revise with confidence. Bring your opening paragraphs for live feedback or come ready to absorb insights that will transform your writing.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMark Owen Gottlieb\u003c\/strong\u003e is a highly-ranked literary agent in overall deals and other categories. He is actively building his client list of authors using that same initiative and insight for identifying talented writers. Mark Gottlieb is excited to work directly with authors, helping to manage and grow their careers with all of the unique resources available at book publishing’s leading literary agency, Trident Media Group. At Trident Media Group, Mark Gottlieb has represented numerous \u003cem\u003eNew York Times\u003c\/em\u003e bestselling and award-winning authors. He has optioned and sold books to film and TV production companies. He previously ran the agency’s audiobook department and worked in foreign rights. Mark Gottlieb is actively seeking submissions in all categories and genres and looking forward to bringing new and established authors to the curious minds of their future readers.\u003cstrong\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCOURSE TAKEAWAYS:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCraft an Unforgettable Hook: \u003c\/strong\u003eLearn how to shape your opening sentences so they instantly grab agents, editors, and readers—creating a compelling gateway into your story.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEstablish Character and Voice Right Away: \u003c\/strong\u003eDiscover techniques to anchor your protagonist’s perspective and personality from the very first page, setting the tone for the entire manuscript.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eInfuse Immediate Tension and Intrigue: \u003c\/strong\u003eUnderstand how to generate page-turning suspense in your opening, ensuring that readers are invested before they’ve even turned to page two.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSpot and Avoid Common Pitfalls: \u003c\/strong\u003eIdentify the missteps that can derail an otherwise promising beginning, and learn how to sidestep clichés or overly familiar tropes.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eRevise with Confidence: \u003c\/strong\u003eGain actionable feedback on your own work and walk away with a toolkit for refining first pages, empowering you to make each draft stronger than the last.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAUTHOR TESTIMONIALS: \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e“To find someone in the publishing world these days who possesses such style and grace…a throwback. Crown moldings and brass door knocker in a world of prefab housing. —\u003cstrong\u003eLesley Kagen, \u003cem\u003eNew York Times\u003c\/em\u003e bestselling author \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e“He is professional, knowledgeable, and deeply cares about the careers of his clients. …I'm lucky to have Mark in my corner!” —\u003cstrong\u003eAlan Hlad, \u003cem\u003eUSA Today\u003c\/em\u003e bestselling author \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e“My writing career never would have advanced as fast or as far without Mark's help.” —\u003cstrong\u003eJames Breakwell, bestselling author \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e“He goes above and beyond his work expectations by cultivating caring relationships with his clients, always expressing empathy and patience. He is kind, supportive and knows what he's doing.” —\u003cstrong\u003eRuby Karp, author of \u003cem\u003eEarth Hates Me\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSTUDENT TESTIMONIALS: \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\"I wanted to thank you for your time this weekend for the Hook and Query writing seminar. It's hard to know from reading articles alone what a query letter or pitch should look like.\" -\u003cstrong\u003eJed H., Workshop Student\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\"It was my absolute pleasure to meet you virtually on Saturday! Thank you for the wealth of detailed information and on-the-spot, yet carefully crafted critiques you shared with each of us— the experience is treasured, and invaluable.\" -\u003cstrong\u003eMica K., Workshop Student\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\"Saturday’s class opened my eyes to the mistakes of my query submissions, which boil down to two crucial elements: word count \u0026amp; comps. Soliciting a bloated manuscript with no comps outside of a couple of 20+ year-old movie references advertised a novice understanding of the publishing industry, making me a rightful candidate for the rejection pile.\" -\u003cstrong\u003eWilliam W., Workshop Student\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\"Thank you, Mark, for this wonderful workshop!\" -\u003cstrong\u003eDiane G., Workshop Student\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan color=\"#000000\"\u003e“You gave me enough writing technique and marketing information to feel like I can get started with confidence. Thank you!” \u003cstrong\u003e— Workshop Student\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e“Thank you for being so diligent, so focused and so professional in your approach to the class. I found the whole experience exceeded my most optimistic expectations.” \u003cstrong\u003e— Workshop Student\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eONLINE COURSE STRUCTURE:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis Workshop will meet via Zoom on Saturday, April 18th, 2026\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSession 1 will be 1:00 PM – 1:45 PM EST\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e15-minute Break Between Sessions\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSession 2 will be 1:55 PM – 3:00 PM EST\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e*Recordings of all sessions will be made available to everyone who enrolls.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePAYMENT OPTIONS:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eYou can pay for the course in full or use Shop Pay or Affirm to pay over time with equal Monthly Payments. Both options are available at checkout.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eMark Owen Gottlieb | Live via Zoom\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSaturday, April 18th, 2026\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSeminar is fully ONLINE and meets via Zoom\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e🌍 \u003cem\u003eClass Times by Time Zone: \u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003eLos Angeles (PST): 10:00 AM – 12 PM \/ Chicago (CST): 12:00 PM – 2:00 PM \/ New York (EST): 1:00 PM – 3:00 PM \/ London (GMT): 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM \/ Berlin (CET): 7:00 PM – 9:00 PM\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Writing Workshops Org","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":46276928176376,"sku":null,"price":99.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0287\/3917\/4532\/files\/The_Art_of_the_First_Page_Mark_Owen_Gottlieb.png?v=1755014179"},{"product_id":"indie-vs-traditional-publishing-which-path-is-right-for-you-zoom-seminar-with-literary-agent-mark-owen-gottlieb","title":"Indie vs. Traditional Publishing: Which Path is Right for You? Zoom Seminar with Literary Agent Mark Owen Gottlieb on Saturday, June 13th, 2026","description":"\u003ch2\u003eSaturday, June 13th, 2026\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eLive Seminar Via Zoom\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eStarts at 1PM EST\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e🌍 \u003cem\u003eClass Times by Time Zone: \u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003eLos Angeles (PST): 10:00 AM – 12 PM \/ Chicago (CST): 12:00 PM – 2:00 PM \/ New York (EST): 1:00 PM – 3:00 PM \/ London (GMT): 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM \/ Berlin (CET): 7:00 PM – 9:00 PM\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAny questions about this class? Use the Chat Button to talk with us.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e*A recording of this seminar will be made available to enrollees.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eLed by an industry-leading literary agent at Trident Media Group, \u003ca title=\"Trident Media Group\" href=\"https:\/\/www.tridentmediagroup.com\/agents\/mark-gottlieb\/\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eMark Owen Gottlieb\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eIn today’s evolving publishing landscape, authors have more options than ever when it comes to bringing their books to market. But how do you determine which path—independent or traditional publishing—is the best fit for your goals?\u003cu\u003e\u003c\/u\u003e\u003cu\u003e\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThis seminar will provide an in-depth comparison of indie and traditional publishing, covering key topics such as creative control, financial considerations, distribution, marketing, and the role of agents and publishers. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eWe’ll discuss the pros and cons of each approach, debunk common myths, and explore real-world success stories from both paths. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eWhether you’re an aspiring author or an industry professional looking to guide clients, this session will equip you with the knowledge to make an informed decision about your publishing journey.\u003cu\u003e\u003c\/u\u003e\u003cu\u003e\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eJoin us for an engaging discussion and Q\u0026amp;A session that will help you navigate the opportunities and challenges of today’s publishing industry!\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMark Owen Gottlieb\u003c\/strong\u003e is a highly-ranked literary agent in overall deals and other categories. He is actively building his client list of authors using that same initiative and insight for identifying talented writers. Mark Gottlieb is excited to work directly with authors, helping to manage and grow their careers with all of the unique resources available at book publishing’s leading literary agency, Trident Media Group. At Trident Media Group, Mark Gottlieb has represented numerous New York Times bestselling and award-winning authors. He has optioned and sold books to film and TV production companies. He previously ran the agency’s audiobook department and worked in foreign rights. Mark Gottlieb is actively seeking submissions in all categories and genres and looking forward to bringing new and established authors to the curious minds of their future readers.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCOURSE TAKEAWAYS:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eComprehensive Understanding of Publishing Options: \u003c\/strong\u003eAttendees will gain a clear overview of both indie and traditional publishing models, their processes, and the types of authors and projects each route typically serves best. This big-picture knowledge empowers you to choose the publishing path that aligns with your specific goals.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eKey Factors for Decision-Making: \u003c\/strong\u003eYou’ll learn how crucial elements—like creative control, financial risks and rewards, distribution channels, marketing resources, and timing—differ between indie and traditional publishing. Armed with these insights, you can weigh the pros and cons to determine which option is the right fit for you or your clients.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDebunking Myths and Misconceptions: \u003c\/strong\u003eThrough real-world examples and expert insights, the seminar will address common myths—such as believing traditional publishing always equals greater financial success or that indie publishing is inherently “lesser.” You’ll come away with a more nuanced perspective that helps you avoid pitfalls or oversimplifications.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eInsider Tips from a Literary Agent’s Perspective: \u003c\/strong\u003eAs a seasoned literary agent, Mark Owen Gottlieb will share insider knowledge on how agents and publishers operate within the traditional model—giving you a candid look behind the scenes. You’ll discover how to navigate agent-author relationships and what it really takes to stand out in a competitive market.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eActionable Strategies for Your Next Steps: \u003c\/strong\u003eFinally, you’ll walk away with practical advice for whichever route you choose. From evaluating upfront costs and managing your own distribution to approaching agents and assembling a strong query, the session offers concrete strategies to launch—or level up—your publishing journey with confidence.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAUTHOR TESTIMONIALS: \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e“To find someone in the publishing world these days who possesses such style and grace…a throwback. Crown moldings and brass door knocker in a world of prefab housing. —\u003cstrong\u003eLesley Kagen, \u003cem\u003eNew York Times\u003c\/em\u003e bestselling author \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e“He is professional, knowledgeable, and deeply cares about the careers of his clients. …I'm lucky to have Mark in my corner!” —\u003cstrong\u003eAlan Hlad, \u003cem\u003eUSA Today\u003c\/em\u003e bestselling author \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e“My writing career never would have advanced as fast or as far without Mark's help.” —\u003cstrong\u003eJames Breakwell, bestselling author \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e“He goes above and beyond his work expectations by cultivating caring relationships with his clients, always expressing empathy and patience. He is kind, supportive and knows what he's doing.” —\u003cstrong\u003eRuby Karp, author of \u003cem\u003eEarth Hates Me\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSTUDENT TESTIMONIALS: \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\"I wanted to thank you for your time this weekend for the Hook and Query writing seminar. It's hard to know from reading articles alone what a query letter or pitch should look like.\" -\u003cstrong\u003eJed H., Workshop Student\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\"It was my absolute pleasure to meet you virtually on Saturday! Thank you for the wealth of detailed information and on-the-spot, yet carefully crafted critiques you shared with each of us— the experience is treasured, and invaluable.\" -\u003cstrong\u003eMica K., Workshop Student\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\"Saturday’s class opened my eyes to the mistakes of my query submissions, which boil down to two crucial elements: word count \u0026amp; comps. Soliciting a bloated manuscript with no comps outside of a couple of 20+ year-old movie references advertised a novice understanding of the publishing industry, making me a rightful candidate for the rejection pile.\" -\u003cstrong\u003eWilliam W., Workshop Student\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\"Thank you, Mark, for this wonderful workshop!\" -\u003cstrong\u003eDiane G., Workshop Student\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan color=\"#000000\"\u003e“You gave me enough writing technique and marketing information to feel like I can get started with confidence. Thank you!” \u003cstrong\u003e— Workshop Student\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e“Thank you for being so diligent, so focused and so professional in your approach to the class. I found the whole experience exceeded my most optimistic expectations.” \u003cstrong\u003e— Workshop Student\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eONLINE COURSE STRUCTURE:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis Workshop will meet via Zoom on Saturday, June 13th, 2026\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSession 1 will be 1:00 PM – 1:45 PM EST\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e15-minute Break Between Sessions\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSession 2 will be 1:55 PM – 3:00 PM EST\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e*Recordings of all sessions will be made available to everyone who enrolls.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePAYMENT OPTIONS:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eYou can pay for the course in full or use Shop Pay or Affirm to pay over time with equal Monthly Payments. Both options are available at checkout.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eMark Owen Gottlieb | Live via Zoom\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSaturday, June 13th, 2026\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSeminar is fully ONLINE and meets via Zoom\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e🌍 \u003cem\u003eClass Times by Time Zone: \u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003eLos Angeles (PST): 10:00 AM – 12 PM \/ Chicago (CST): 12:00 PM – 2:00 PM \/ New York (EST): 1:00 PM – 3:00 PM \/ London (GMT): 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM \/ Berlin (CET): 7:00 PM – 9:00 PM\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Writing Workshops Org","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":46276954652920,"sku":null,"price":99.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0287\/3917\/4532\/files\/Indie_vs_Traditional_Publishing_with_Mark_Owen_Gottlieb_72f37f9d-5f7b-49ab-b151-e9511d9509b4.png?v=1755014073"},{"product_id":"the-list-making-method-transform-your-fiction-poetry-and-essays-a-zoom-seminar-with-ethan-joella","title":"The List-Making Method: Transform Your Fiction, Poetry and Essays, a Zoom Seminar with Ethan Joella on Wednesday, July 22nd, 2026","description":"\u003cdiv class=\"sqs-block html-block sqs-block-html\" data-block-type=\"2\" id=\"block-689061bb302a5b82a1ea\"\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eWednesday, July 22nd, 2026\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe class will meet via Zoom, 6:00PM - 8:00PM EST\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAny questions about this class? Use the Chat Button to talk with\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003cstrong\u003eus.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"sqs-block-content\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEthan Joella i\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003es the author of the \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003enovels \u003ci\u003eA Little Hope\u003c\/i\u003e (Scribner, 2021), which was a Read \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003ewith Jenna Bonus Selection, \u003ci\u003eA Quiet Life\u003c\/i\u003e (Scribner, \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e2022), \u003ci\u003eThe Same Bright Stars\u003c\/i\u003e (Scribner, 2024), and \u003cem\u003eThe Top of the World\u003c\/em\u003e (Scribner, 2026). \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003eHis books have been featured in \u003ci\u003eThe New York Times, People, \u003c\/i\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003eand\u003ci\u003e Good Housekeeping\u003c\/i\u003e.  Ethan teaches English and \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003epsychology at the University of Delaware and specializes in community writing workshops. He lives in Rehoboth Beach, Delaware \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003ewith his family.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003e\u003cem\u003eRead \u003ca rel=\"noopener\" title=\"Master the Art of List-Making: Ethan Joella's Proven Techniques for Breaking Writer's Block\" href=\"https:\/\/writingworkshops.com\/blogs\/news\/master-the-art-of-list-making-ethan-joellas-proven-techniques-for-breaking-writers-block\" target=\"_blank\"\u003ean Interview with Ethan \u003c\/a\u003eon Mastering the List-Making Method.\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003cem\u003eIn this class, students will learn how lists can enhance fiction, nonfiction, and poetry writing.\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAre you struggling to make your characters feel authentic or your settings come alive? Finding it difficult to structure your stories, essays or poems in a way that resonates with readers? Most writers hit creative roadblocks that standard writing advice simply doesn't solve.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhat if you're overlooking one of the most powerful techniques used by literary legends like Susan Sontag, Ray Bradbury, Kim Addonizio, and Elizabeth Strout?\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe List-Making Method is a transformative approach that accomplished writers have quietly relied on for decades to:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eReveal complex character psychology in a single paragraph.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eCreate immersive settings that readers can't forget.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eStructure poems and essays with unexpected resonance.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eBreak through creative blocks when you're stuck.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn this intimate, interactive Zoom workshop, celebrated author Ethan Joella reveals the exact list-making techniques that have revolutionized his own writing process and those of his most successful students.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eWhat you'll experience:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eAnalyze rarely-discussed list techniques from contemporary masterworks.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eCreate your own transformative lists through guided exercises.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eReceive personalized feedback in a supportive environment.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eApply these methods immediately to your current projects.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhether you're developing existing work or starting something new, join us to unlock a technique that can instantly elevate your writing across all genres.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eReserve your spot now before this session fills – and bring a current project that's ready for transformation.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCan't Make It Live?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan\u003eNo problem! The session will be recorded and available to watch after the seminar concludes.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"sqs-block-content\"\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eCOURSE TAKEAWAYS:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eEthan will share examples of lists in various genres.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eStudents will discuss lists and do response exercises.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eStudents will come away with new ideas to enhance character or setting, try different structures, or add conflict or resolution via lists.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTESTIMONIALS:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\"\u003cem\u003eI really appreciated how the weekly feedback that was specific to my work. I would recommend this to any writer looking to take their work to the next level.\u003c\/em\u003e\" - Tara K.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\"\u003cem\u003eThis class exceeded my expectations. The assignments were well-defined, and Ethan's thoughtful feedback pushed me out of my comfort zone. I felt that the class was really well-scoped. I'd love to take further classes with Ethan, especially anything around character interiority and expressing a character's needs\/wants\u003c\/em\u003e.\" -Lizz H.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\"\u003cem\u003eEthan is such a thoughtful teacher. I really enjoyed this class and hope he teaches more classes soon\u003c\/em\u003e!\" -former student\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\"\u003cem\u003eThis class exceeded my expectations and now I have a new tool in my writing toolbox!\u003c\/em\u003e\" -former student\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003ePAYMENT OPTIONS\u003c\/strong\u003e: \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003eYou can pay for the course in full \u003ci\u003e or\u003c\/i\u003e use Shop Pay or Affirm to pay over time with equal Monthly Payments. Both options are available at checkout.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eONLINE COURSE STRUCTURE:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTuition is $99 USD. This class will meet live via Zoom. If you can't attend live, a recording will be provided.\u003cstrong\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul data-rte-list=\"default\"\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"\"\u003eInstructor: Ethan Joella\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"\"\u003eWednesday, July 22nd, 2026\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"\"\u003eThe class will meet via Zoom, 6:00PM - 8:00PM EST\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eTuition is $99 USD.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"sqs-block html-block sqs-block-html\" data-block-type=\"2\" id=\"block-3d8366dec4183f93ceae\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"sqs-block-content\"\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"\"\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Writing Workshops Org","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":46325811052792,"sku":null,"price":99.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0287\/3917\/4532\/files\/EthanJoellaUpdatedHeadshot2026.png?v=1772561669"},{"product_id":"screenplay-structure-made-simple-and-fun-zoom-seminar-with-heidi-lux","title":"Screenplay Structure Made Simple (and Fun!) Zoom Seminar with Heidi Lux on Saturday, April 25th, 2026","description":"\u003ch2\u003eSaturday, April 25th, 2026\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe class will meet via Zoom, 11:00AM - 2:00PM Pacific\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e🌍 \u003cem\u003eClass Times by Time Zone: \u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cem\u003eLos Angeles (PDT): 11:00 AM – 2:00 PM \/ Chicago (CDT): 1:00 PM – 4:00 PM \/ New York (EDT): 2:00 PM – 5:00 PM \/ London (BST): 6:00 PM – 9:00 PM \/ Berlin (CEST): 7:00 PM – 10:00 PM\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAny questions about this class? Use the Chat Button to talk with us. \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eInstructor Heidi Lux\u003c\/strong\u003e is a produced screenwriter and satirist. Her screenwriting credits include Nickelodeon and Tubi. As a satirist, Heidi is currently a managing editor for \u003cem\u003eThe Belladonna Comedy\u003c\/em\u003e, and has written for \u003cem\u003eMcSweeney’s, Reductress\u003c\/em\u003e, and more. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003e\u003cem\u003eRead \u003ca rel=\"noopener\" title=\"Screenplay Structure Made Simple: an Interview with Heidi Lux\" href=\"https:\/\/writingworkshops.com\/blogs\/news\/screenplay-structure-made-simple-an-interview-with-heidi-lux\" target=\"_blank\"\u003ean Interview with Heidi\u003c\/a\u003e on Screenplay Structure Made Simple.\u003c\/em\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis is a one-day workshop digging into the nitty-gritty of screenplay structure. We’ll go over the three-act structure, and how it can be used as a for story planning, beat placement, action pacing, character arc development, and more - freeing up writers to think of it as a tool, rather than a rigid “rule” that needs to be followed.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWe’ll analyze structure with a focus on process, rather than theory. How can this be used as a tool to serve you and your writing, instead of a rigid system of rules meant to be adhered to. Structure is there to support your story, not take over your story.\u003cbr\u003eWe’ll break down the traditional story structure, going over each story beat and what it’s there for.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWe’ll discuss:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eHow structure can be used to help you communicate your theme.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eHow structure gives the story a natural sense of pacing.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eThe relationship between structure and pattern (and what this means for audience expectations).\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eHow to prevent a “saggy” Act II.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eHow to get the most milage out of your midpoint.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eHow the different schools of story structure all say the same thing (and help you find which one is best for you!).\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eHow to use story structure to show a character’s arc.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eHow to use the rules to break the rules (and how to break audience expectations in a way that’s satisfying).\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eScreenplay structure doesn’t have to be daunting. It’s the roadmap for your story. I’ll teach you how to make story structure work for you, and not the other way around.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCOURSE OUTLINE:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eIntroduction: The Power of Structure\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eWhy structure exists in storytelling\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eEmotional impact of structure on audiences\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eStructure as a foundation for creativity\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eThree-Act Structure Fundamentals\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eAct I: Setup and inciting incident\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eAct II: Confrontation and complications\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eAct III: Resolution and transformation\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eEssential story beats within each act\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ePractical Application: Film Analysis\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eBreaking down sample films through structural lens\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eIdentifying key beats in successful screenplays\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eRecognizing structural patterns across genres\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eThe Rhythm of Storytelling\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eHow structure creates pattern and pacing\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eCharacter wins and losses as rhythm creators\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eConnecting structure to character arcs\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eAvoiding Structural Pitfalls\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eLate story starts and how to fix them\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSolutions for the \"saggy\" Act II\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eBalancing structural elements for maximum impact\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eComparative Structure Systems\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eOverview of different structural frameworks\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eHow various approaches complement each other\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eAnalyzing the same film through multiple structural lenses\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eMaking Structure Work for You\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eAdapting structure to your writing process\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eWhen to follow and when to innovate\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eEffectively breaking structural expectations\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eQ\u0026amp;A Session\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eAddressing specific structural challenges\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eTailoring advice to individual projects\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eFinal thoughts and resources\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCourse Texts:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eStudents will be asked to watch 2 movies before class so that we can unpack the structure of these movies within class. Students will receive handouts on structure after class (including structural templates).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCourse Takeaways:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eA clear sense of how screenplay structure relates to character arc, and how to use structure to make put your character through the ringer.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eComfort in basics of the three-act screenplay structure, and comfort with utilizing it as a tool to unlock your script’s story, rather than a rigid template that must be adhered to at all costs.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eAn understanding of the requisite story beats audiences expect from a feature film, what the function of these story beats are in terms of the larger narrative, and a sense of how the different schools of structure (e.g. Hero’s Journey, Eight Sequences, Save the Cat) all feed into the same story beats.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eStudents will be given three different structural templates that can be used when mapping a story.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eJoin us for an intensive, enjoyable journey into screenwriting, and leave with the confidence and tools to bring your vision to life.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCan't Make It Live?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan\u003eNo problem! The session will be recorded and available to watch after the seminar concludes.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTestimonials: \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\"\u003cem\u003eThis class covered a lot of great material, and I particularly liked all the real-life examples.\u003c\/em\u003e\" -former student\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e“\u003cem\u003eHeidi's class was absolutely foundational and I particularly loved learning how to write a vomit draft. I hope to learn more from you!!\u003c\/em\u003e\" -former student\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eONLINE COURSE STRUCTURE:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis one-time seminar will be conducted live via Zoom. \u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe session will be recorded and available to watch after the seminar concludes.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003ePAYMENT OPTIONS\u003c\/strong\u003e: \u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cbr\u003eTuition is $99 USD. You can pay for the course in full\u003cspan style=\"box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003ci\u003eor\u003c\/i\u003e use Shop Pay or Affirm to pay over time with equal Monthly Payments. Both options are available at checkout.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul data-rte-list=\"default\"\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eInstructor: Heidi Lux\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"\"\u003eSaturday, April 25th, 2026\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"\"\u003eThe class will meet via Zoom, 11:00AM - 2:00PM PST\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eTuition is $99 USD\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c!----\u003e","brand":"Writing Workshops Org","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":46330938392824,"sku":null,"price":99.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0287\/3917\/4532\/files\/ScreenplayStructureMadeSimple_Fun_withHeidiLux_65e423e1-5037-486c-8ee8-3959e89afb8d.png?v=1771099555"},{"product_id":"writing-with-vulnerability-and-creative-courage-zoom-seminar-with-gg-renee-hill","title":"Writing with Vulnerability and Creative Courage Zoom Seminar with GG Renee Hill on Sunday, June 7th, 2026","description":"\u003ch2\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSunday, June 7th, 2026\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eLive Seminar via Zoom from 3:00PM - 6:00PM ET\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e🌍 \u003cem\u003eClass Times by Time Zone:\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cem\u003e Los Angeles (PDT): 12:00 PM – 3:00 PM \/ Chicago (CDT): 2:00 PM – 5:00 PM \/ New York (EDT): 3:00 PM – 6:00 PM \/ London (BST): 8:00 PM – 11:00 PM \/ Berlin (CEST): 9:00 PM – 12:00 AM\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eNote: If you can't attend live, this class will be recorded.\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAny questions about this class? Use the Chat Button to talk with us. \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"\"\u003eInstructor GG Renee Hill is the author of \u003cem\u003eSelf-Care Check In: A Guided Journal to Build Healthy Habits and Devote Time to You\u003c\/em\u003e (Rockridge, 2020) and \u003cem\u003eA Year of Self-Reflection Journal: 365 Days of Guided Prompts to Slow Down, Tune In, and Grow\u003c\/em\u003e (Rockridge, 2021). Her debut book of essays, \u003cem\u003eStory Work: Field Notes on Self-Discovery and Reclaiming Your Narrative, \u003c\/em\u003eis available from Broadleaf Books (2025). Her books center writing as a tool for healing, self-discovery, and creative courage.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"flex flex-grow flex-col max-w-full\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv data-message-author-role=\"assistant\" data-message-id=\"3450eee6-13ca-4328-920f-cb6a6b1bfd1f\" class=\"min-h-[20px] text-message flex flex-col items-start gap-3 whitespace-pre-wrap break-words [.text-message+\u0026amp;]:mt-5 overflow-x-auto\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"markdown prose w-full break-words dark:prose-invert dark\"\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003e\u003cem\u003eLay the foundation to become the impactful storyteller you want to be in a healthy, intuitive, and sustainable way. \u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWriting presents us with the opportunity to examine our lived experiences to find meaning and wisdom that we can transform into art.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt also presents us with the challenge of taking care of ourselves through the vulnerability of exploring, strengthening, and sharing our voices to become more fully expressed. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis three-hour session helps writers find the courage to be vulnerable and write about sensitive subjects. In this workshop, you learn how to view creative vulnerability as an act of generosity and how to offer up your humanity through story as a gift to yourself and others.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYou will come away from this workshop with perspective on your unique storyteller type and how this understanding builds courage. You will also learn best practices for taking care of yourself as you do this introspective work.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis workshop is designed for beginning and intermediate nonfiction writers.\u003cstrong\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp title=\"Page 1\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCOURSE TAKEAWAYS:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eHow to turn the fear of vulnerability into creative material to write about\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eIdentify the sources of your creative motivation as the foundation of your why\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eThe difference between examination and exposure when it comes to personal storytelling.\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eTechniques to tell your story and maintain your anonymity\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eHow to ethically approach writing about other people\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eHow to turn a raw journal entry into a piece for publication\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eWriters will come away with ideas for writing projects and notes for a rough draft.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSEMINAR OUTLINE:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis is a one-session, three-hour workshop that starts with an interactive Truth\/Fiction warm-up exercise followed by seven sections:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003col\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eFear as creative material. \u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eThe motivation to share.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eExamination vs. Exposure.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eFrom Embarrassed to Enlightened.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eFrom Journal to Publication.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eResponsibility to Others.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eCreativity, Self-Care, and Resilience.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ol\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTAKE THIS CLASS IF\u003c\/strong\u003e:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eYou're finding the constraints of your current writing practice too limiting.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eYou want exposure to a range of new approaches to bring to your writing practice.\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eYou want an expanded sense of what is possible in your work in 2025 and beyond!\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTESTIMONIALS:\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\"Renee was a gem to work with. She was so attentive to all of the participants, and really helped me feel more empowered in my writing process and coming out of the fear of telling my story. I appreciated this class!\" - former participant\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\"I loved your style of teaching. It was very honest and super insightful. Thank you for helping me rediscover my spark again for writing.\" - former participant\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\"GG was such a warm and welcoming instructor! She conveyed her genuine passion for the craft and its many gifts. If anyone present wasn’t convinced they wanted to write, I bet that they are now. GG clearly cares about each student who shows up to learn from her. She shared a wealth of resources with us - during and after the class. I would happily take more of her workshops, and direct other writers to do the same!\" - former participant\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\"GG is a talented facilitator who skillfully created a container for us to explore our vulnerability. The workshop inspired me to write more and practice embracing the imperfection. Would love workshops or classes that touch on the themes of today’s session.\" - former participant\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\"GG was a wonderful, confident instructor. I hope to take another with her again.\" - former participant\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003ePAYMENT OPTIONS\u003c\/strong\u003e: \u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\n\u003cbr\u003eTuition is $99 USD. You can pay for the course in full\u003cspan style=\"box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003ci\u003eor\u003c\/i\u003e use Shop Pay or Affirm to pay over time with equal Monthly Payments. Both options are available at checkout.\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cul data-rte-list=\"default\"\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eInstructor: GG Renee Hill\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSunday, June 7th, 2026\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eLive Seminar via Zoom from 3:00PM - 6:00PM ET\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNote: If you can't attend live, this class will be recorded.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e Tuition is $99 USD. \u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e","brand":"Writing Workshops Org","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":46441677717752,"sku":null,"price":99.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0287\/3917\/4532\/files\/GGReneeHillHeadshot.png?v=1746826064"},{"product_id":"over-come-writers-block-with-tawny-lara","title":"Just F*%#ing Write: Get Words Out of Your Head and Onto the Page Zoom Seminar with Tawny Lara on Saturday, July 11th, 2026","description":"\u003ch2\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSaturday, July 11th, 2026\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eLive Seminar Via Zoom 1:00PM – 3:00PM Eastern\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e🌍 \u003cem\u003eClass Times by Time Zone: \u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003eLos Angeles (PST): 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM \/ Chicago (CST): 12:00 PM – 2:00 PM \/ New York (EST): 1:00 PM – 3:00 PM \/ London (GMT): 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM \/ Berlin (CET): 7:00 PM – 9:00 PM\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAny questions about this class? Use the Chat Button to talk with us. \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe session will be recorded and available to watch after the seminar concludes.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eLed by Tawny Lara, author of \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.penguinrandomhouse.com\/books\/730665\/dry-humping-by-tawny-lara\/\" title=\"Dry Humping  A Guide to Dating, Relating, and Hooking Up Without the Booze By Tawny Lara\" rel=\"noopener\" target=\"_blank\"\u003e\u003cem\u003eDry Humping: A Guide to Dating, Relating, and Hooking Up Without the Booze\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e and \u003ci\u003eThe Sobriety Deck: Practical Practices for a Booze-Free Lifestyle\u003c\/i\u003e, and co-founder of the vinegar-based botanical beverage, (parentheses).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis seminar offers a mix of writing prompts and practical advice to help writers write. Whether you’re a professional author or you’re still trying to convince yourself that you’re a “real writer,” this workshop is for you.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eParticipants will emerge from this seminar with fresh ideas, several pages of writing, and clarity on the next step of their writing journey.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSEMINAR TAKEAWAYS:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMastery over the elements of a book proposal, including:\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eWriting Time: \u003c\/strong\u003eTawny guides you through a series of writing prompts to get the creative juices flowing. There’s also space to read selected writings aloud and get feedback\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eTake Your Writing Practice on a Date: \u003c\/strong\u003eWhen is the last time you romanced yourself, let alone your writing? This seminar includes Tawny’s tips for setting up a writing space that makes you actually want to sit still and write.\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eQ\u0026amp;A: \u003c\/strong\u003eThe last 20 minutes of class is wide open for you to ask Tawny anything about publishing, freelancing, pitching, book proposals, book marketing, entrepreneurship, newsletters, and more.\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWHO SHOULD ATTEND:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis seminar welcomes a diverse audience, from seasoned writers seeking to refine their writing skills to curious beginners eager to embark on their writing journey. Regardless of your experience level, this seminar promises to equip you with the insights, tools, and inspiration needed to get back into your writing flow.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWith Tawny Lara's guidance, you'll shift your perspective on the writing process. Prepare to feel empowered, inspired, and fully equipped to tackle a blank page with confidence and enthusiasm. \u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCan't Make It Live?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan\u003eNo problem! The session will be recorded and available to watch after the seminar concludes.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTESTIMONIALS:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e“When it comes to non-fiction, a big part of an agent’s job is wrangling a book proposal together with their author. Digging into the why of the project, discussing platform, and the like. It only benefits you to be more prepared. The more you have in there, the better. When Tawny’s proposal arrived in my agent inbox and I opened it, it was like that scene in Pulp Fiction when they open the briefcase and all golden light shines out. It was perfect. And I called her the same day asking to work on the project. You’ll learn a lot from her, absolutely” -Eric Smith, author \u0026amp; Tawny’s agent\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e“The publishing world is a minefield, and Tawny is a Bloodhound. Over the past decade, she's learned how to navigate this clusterfuck of this industry, cutting through the BS, so you can actually get published and your voice heard.” -Zachary Zane, Author of \u003cem\u003eBoyslut, A Memoir and Manifesto\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e“Tawny is such an excellent resource for someone navigating publishing and proposals for the first time. I am a DIY-type who usually just uses Google to teach me everything, but having Tawny's help saved me weeks if not months of research and helped me feel extremely clear and prepared as I began the process. Very grateful for her expertise!” -Mariana Louis, archetypal tarotist\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\"Tawny Lara's class on writing non-fiction book proposals is a lighthouse for anyone eager to explore mental health topics with depth and empathy. Her expertise not only helps writers to craft impactful narratives but also to navigate the complexities of mental health with sensitivity and insight.\" - Sophie Saint Thomas, author of \u003cem\u003eReproductive Rites\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e“Tawny is not only an experienced journalist and writer, but she’s also a marketing wiz who can bring that extra special sauce to your book proposal. If you want to actually sell your book, there’s no one else that I’d rely on to teach me the 101.” - Irina Gonzalez, editor, journalist, and author of the\u003cem\u003e Raising Gen Alpha\u003c\/em\u003e newsletter\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\"Tawny is a master when it comes to marketing yourself as a writer. She will help you focus your vision and tap into insider knowledge of the publishing world.\" -Gemma Hartley, author of \u003cem\u003eFed Up: Emotional Labor, Women, and the Way Forward \u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e“Tawny will help you sell your book proposal. She knows the game, and she will teach you how to play it.” -Paulina Pinsky, co-author of\u003cem\u003e It Doesn’t Have to be Awkward\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\"Tawny, I wanted to take a moment to thank you for what was a chock-full-of-info book proposal seminar yesterday. I am so glad I came; it was worth my time in all respects! Thank you for being so generous and forthcoming and giving us so much knowledge about the book proposal process in such a clear and seamless way. I feel like every minute had something valuable to offer. My kind of seminar!\" -former student\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\"This seminar got me excited to explore and think about how I might take what I already do and turn it into a card deck and if so...what would that look like. Tawny was knowledgeable and open and kept on time with things, which I always appreciate. It was well worth the investment.\" -former student.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\"This seminar exceeded my expectations! It was super helpful and informative about an emerging area of publishing. The most helpful part: Tawny's slide deck; the comparison between self-publishing and traditional; talking about how publishers have different imprints for paper products. Thank you!\" -former student\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePAYMENT OPTIONS\u003c\/strong\u003e:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003eYou can pay for the course in full \u003ci\u003e or\u003c\/i\u003e use Affirm to pay over time with equal Monthly Payments. Both options are available at checkout.\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cul data-rte-list=\"default\"\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eInstructor: Tawny Lara\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSaturday, July 11th, 2026\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eLive Seminar Via Zoom 1:00PM – 3:00PM Eastern\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eA recording will be provided if you cannot attend live\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e🌍 \u003cem\u003eClass Times by Time Zone: \u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003eLos Angeles (PST): 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM \/ Chicago (CST): 12:00 PM – 2:00 PM \/ New York (EST): 1:00 PM – 3:00 PM \/ London (GMT): 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM \/ Berlin (CET): 7:00 PM – 9:00 PM\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Writing Workshops Org","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":46550139273464,"sku":null,"price":99.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0287\/3917\/4532\/files\/Tawny_Lara_Headshot_5_6b6d9b3b-0112-4e8d-993c-9542c016dce4.png?v=1761327740"},{"product_id":"the-ethics-of-memoir-a-two-hour-multigenre-craft-talk-seminar-with-robert-anthony-siegel","title":"The Ethics of Memoir: A Two-Hour Multigenre Craft Talk with Robert Anthony Siegel (Zoom) on Wednesday, May 6th, 2026","description":"\u003cdiv id=\"block-0c22edf6c5f4ee9d89a4\" data-block-type=\"2\" class=\"sqs-block html-block sqs-block-html\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"sqs-block-content\"\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eLive Seminar via Zoom Wednesday, May 6th, 2026\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eClass will meet 7PM - 9PM Eastern\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eThis class will be recorded if you cannot attend live. \u003c\/strong\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"sqs-block-content\"\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"sqs-block-content\"\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eAny questions about this class? Use the Chat Button to talk with us. \u003c\/strong\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"\"\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eInstructor Robert Anthony Siegel \u003c\/strong\u003eis the author of a memoir, \u003ci\u003eCriminals\u003c\/i\u003e, and two novels, \u003ci\u003eAll Will Be Revealed \u003c\/i\u003eand\u003ci\u003e All the Money in the World\u003c\/i\u003e. His work has appeared in \u003ci\u003eThe New York Times, The Los Angeles Times, Smithsonian Magazine, The Paris Review, The Drift, The Oxford American, and Ploughshares\u003c\/i\u003e, and has been anthologized in \u003ci\u003eBest American Essays 2023, O. Henry Stories 2014, \u003c\/i\u003eand\u003ci\u003e Pushcart Prize XXXVI\u003c\/i\u003e. He has been a Fulbright Scholar in Taiwan, a Mombukagakusho Fellow in Japan, a Writing Fellow at the Fine Arts Work Center in Provincetown, and a Paul Engle Fellow at the Iowa Writers Workshop. He holds an MFA from the Iowa Writers Workshop.\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"background-color: white;\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eEvery memoirist knows that honesty is the great force that powers memoir. But what if that honesty causes distress to family and friends? What does the writer owe to others who appear in their story? And what does the writer owe to the story itself?\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn this two-hour Zoom seminar, we will explore these and other questions around the ethics of memoir, including:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eWhen is it reasonable to protect the privacy of people who appear in your story? Is it okay to change names? Alter other kinds of identifying details? Create composite characters? At what point do changes undermine the integrity of the story?\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eHow should you talk to the people in your story about these issues? \u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eHow should you negotiate conflicting memories, conflicting interpretations of events?\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eDoes anyone have a right to see the manuscript? \u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eWhat if they ask for changes?\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eIs there ever a reason to consult with a lawyer? When?\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThough at first glance the ethics of memoir can feel fraught, even intimidating, the truth is that thinking about the people in your story is always a positive step, a way of adding richness and complexity to your understanding of your memoir.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eUltimately, this seminar will help you write the story you need to write with greater confidence and freedom.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"sqs-block-content\"\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eCan't Make It Live?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eNo problem! The session will be recorded and available to watch after the seminar concludes.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"sqs-block-content\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCourse Expectations:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"sqs-block-content\"\u003e\n\u003cbr\u003eOpen to all levels of experience and all genres. No preparation needed. Just come to class ready to write, explore, and share.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"sqs-block-content\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTESTIMONIALS:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\"Full of richly drawn characters and jolting plot twists—Glasser’s time behind bars is especially chilling—Siegel’s debut novel works both as a parable of how quickly the high and mighty can fall, and as gripping drama. 'Money' well spent.\" -NEW YORK POST on ALL THE MONEY IN THE WORLD\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\"Early in this novel, there is a wonderful scene—rich with embarrassment—in which Louis Glasser, the altogether unlikely hero, helps his Harvard-educated son buy a new suit. The son’s fortunes founder, but that’s nothing compared to the perils that overwhelm his father—a lawyer who operates on the margins and becomes the target of a criminal investigation. Siegel’s … portraits (loving and otherwise) of the Glassers, New York prosecutors, and various lowlifes are right on the money.\" -THE NEW YORKER on ALL THE MONEY IN THE WORLD\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\"...Well-turned and elegant...Gloriously complex...\" -ATLANTA JOURNAL-CONSTITUTION on ALL WILL BE REVEALED\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\"...A richly detailed and seedily seductive narrative.\" -PUBLISHERS WEEKLY on ALL WILL BE REVEALED\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\"Robert's unique skill as a teacher comes from his enthusiasm not only for talking, which is present in many talented professors, but for listening... He has a reputation for being the best kind of teacher: generous, knowledgeable, demanding, and always at the ready with excellent advice.\" -former student\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\"The level of discourse was challenging and interesting and I think part of the reason for that was the casual atmosphere of discussion, fostered by Robert. When people are allowed to speak in an open, non-threatening environment, wonderful things happen.\" -former student\u003cstrong\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"sqs-block-content\"\u003e\n\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePAYMENT OPTIONS\u003c\/strong\u003e:\n\u003cdiv\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003eTuition is $99 USD. You can pay for the course in full\u003cspan style=\"box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003ci\u003eor\u003c\/i\u003e use Shop Pay or Affirm to pay over time with equal Monthly Payments. These options are available at checkout.\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cul data-rte-list=\"default\"\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eInstructor: Robert Anthony Siegel\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eLive Seminar via Zoom Wednesday, May 6th, 2026\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eClass will meet 7PM - 9PM Eastern\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTuition is $99 USD.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv id=\"block-51a8238b2f73df2e52ed\" data-block-type=\"2\" class=\"sqs-block html-block sqs-block-html\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"sqs-block-content\"\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"\"\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Writing Workshops Org","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":46572798443768,"sku":null,"price":99.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0287\/3917\/4532\/files\/robertsiegelHeadshot_f9b51221-fdf3-4fd7-8a44-d32238b06d75.png?v=1703195669"},{"product_id":"push-through-writers-block-zoom-seminar-with-tawny-lara","title":"Push Through Writer's Block Zoom Seminar with Tawny Lara on Sunday, May 17th, 2026","description":"\u003ch2\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSunday, May 17th, 2026\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eLive Seminar Via Zoom 1:00PM – 3:00PM Eastern\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e🌍 \u003cem\u003eClass Times by Time Zone: \u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003eLos Angeles (PST): 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM \/ Chicago (CST): 12:00 PM – 2:00 PM \/ New York (EST): 1:00 PM – 3:00 PM \/ London (GMT): 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM \/ Berlin (CET): 7:00 PM – 9:00 PM\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAny questions about this class? Use the Chat Button (lower left) to talk with us. \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eLed by Tawny Lara, author of \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.penguinrandomhouse.com\/books\/730665\/dry-humping-by-tawny-lara\/\" title=\"Dry Humping  A Guide to Dating, Relating, and Hooking Up Without the Booze By Tawny Lara\" rel=\"noopener\" target=\"_blank\"\u003e\u003cem\u003eDry Humping: A Guide to Dating, Relating, and Hooking Up Without the Booze\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e and \u003ci\u003eThe Sobriety Deck: Practical Practices for a Booze-Free Lifestyle\u003c\/i\u003e, and co-founder of the vinegar-based botanical beverage, (parentheses).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis seminar provides an in-depth examination of four hurdles that writers often put in their own way. Tawny’s experience as a journalist, author, teacher, and coach helped her identify four recurring blocks that writers often struggle to overcome.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTawny’s teaching approach is a mix of tangible tips, actionable advice, and real-life experience. Whether you’re a professional author or you’re still trying to convince yourself that you’re a “real writer,” this workshop is for you.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eParticipants will emerge from this seminar with fresh ideas, tools to use when feeling blocked, and clarity on the next step of their writing journey.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSEMINAR TAKEAWAYS:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEmbrace Rejection: \u003c\/strong\u003eLearn how Tawny kept pitching her book and freelance writing, despite consistent rejection. Also, hear how she still deals with rejection regularly. \u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDance with Perfectionism: \u003c\/strong\u003eTawny echoes Anne Lammott’s famous advice of writing “shitty” drafts. Learn tips on how to quiet the perfectionism so you can get words on the page.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eIgnore Impostor Syndrome: \u003c\/strong\u003eThis section is for the voice in your head that thinks this class isn’t for you because it’s for “real” writers. Hear Tawny’s moments of impostor syndrome and how she still pushes through them, one day at a time.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSet Realistic Goals: \u003c\/strong\u003eIdentify your writing goals, then learn Tawny’s actionable advice on setting realistic goals to make those dreams happen.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWHO SHOULD ATTEND:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis seminar welcomes a diverse audience, from seasoned writers seeking to refine their writing skills to curious beginners eager to embark on their writing journey. Regardless of your experience level, this seminar promises to equip you with the insights, tools, and inspiration needed to get back into your writing flow.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWith Tawny Lara's guidance, you'll learn how to push through writer’s block while actually getting new words on the page. Prepare to feel empowered, inspired, and fully equipped to tackle a blank page with confidence and enthusiasm. \u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTESTIMONIALS:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e“When it comes to non-fiction, a big part of an agent’s job is wrangling a book proposal together with their author. Digging into the why of the project, discussing platform, and the like. It only benefits you to be more prepared. The more you have in there, the better. When Tawny’s proposal arrived in my agent inbox and I opened it, it was like that scene in Pulp Fiction when they open the briefcase and all golden light shines out. It was perfect. And I called her the same day asking to work on the project. You’ll learn a lot from her, absolutely” -Eric Smith, author \u0026amp; Tawny’s agent\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e“The publishing world is a minefield, and Tawny is a Bloodhound. Over the past decade, she's learned how to navigate this clusterfuck of this industry, cutting through the BS, so you can actually get published and your voice heard.” -Zachary Zane, Author of \u003cem\u003eBoyslut, A Memoir and Manifesto\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e“Tawny is such an excellent resource for someone navigating publishing and proposals for the first time. I am a DIY-type who usually just uses Google to teach me everything, but having Tawny's help saved me weeks if not months of research and helped me feel extremely clear and prepared as I began the process. Very grateful for her expertise!” -Mariana Louis, archetypal tarotist\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\"Tawny Lara's class on writing non-fiction book proposals is a lighthouse for anyone eager to explore mental health topics with depth and empathy. Her expertise not only helps writers to craft impactful narratives but also to navigate the complexities of mental health with sensitivity and insight.\" - Sophie Saint Thomas, author of \u003cem\u003eReproductive Rites\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e“Tawny is not only an experienced journalist and writer, but she’s also a marketing wiz who can bring that extra special sauce to your book proposal. If you want to actually sell your book, there’s no one else that I’d rely on to teach me the 101.” - Irina Gonzalez, editor, journalist, and author of the\u003cem\u003e Raising Gen Alpha\u003c\/em\u003e newsletter\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\"Tawny is a master when it comes to marketing yourself as a writer. She will help you focus your vision and tap into insider knowledge of the publishing world.\" -Gemma Hartley, author of \u003cem\u003eFed Up: Emotional Labor, Women, and the Way Forward \u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e“Tawny will help you sell your book proposal. She knows the game, and she will teach you how to play it.” -Paulina Pinsky, co-author of\u003cem\u003e It Doesn’t Have to be Awkward\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\"Tawny, I wanted to take a moment to thank you for what was a chock-full-of-info book proposal seminar yesterday. I am so glad I came; it was worth my time in all respects! Thank you for being so generous and forthcoming and giving us so much knowledge about the book proposal process in such a clear and seamless way. I feel like every minute had something valuable to offer. My kind of seminar!\" -former student\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\"This seminar got me excited to explore and think about how I might take what I already do and turn it into a card deck and if so...what would that look like. Tawny was knowledgeable and open and kept on time with things, which I always appreciate. It was well worth the investment.\" -former student.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\"This seminar exceeded my expectations! It was super helpful and informative about an emerging area of publishing. The most helpful part: Tawny's slide deck; the comparison between self-publishing and traditional; talking about how publishers have different imprints for paper products. Thank you!\" -former student\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePAYMENT OPTIONS\u003c\/strong\u003e:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\n\u003cbr\u003eTuition is $99 USD. You can pay for the course in full \u003ci\u003e or\u003c\/i\u003e use Affirm to pay over time with equal Monthly Payments. Both options are available at checkout.\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cul data-rte-list=\"default\"\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eInstructor: Tawny Lara\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSunday, May 17th, 2026\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eLive Seminar Via Zoom 1:00PM – 3:00PM Eastern\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eTuition is $99 USD\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e🌍 \u003cem\u003eClass Times by Time Zone: \u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003eLos Angeles (PST): 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM \/ Chicago (CST): 12:00 PM – 2:00 PM \/ New York (EST): 1:00 PM – 3:00 PM \/ London (GMT): 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM \/ Berlin (CET): 7:00 PM – 9:00 PM\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Writing Workshops Org","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":46608401105144,"sku":null,"price":99.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0287\/3917\/4532\/files\/Tawny_Lara_Headshot_4.png?v=1737474635"},{"product_id":"no-place-like-home-how-to-write-the-domestic-but-make-it-weird-zoom-seminar-with-amber-sparks","title":"No Place Like Home: How to Write  the Domestic, But Make It Weird Zoom Seminar with Amber Sparks on Saturday, August 1st, 2026","description":"\u003ch2\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSaturday, August 1st, 2026\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eLive Seminar Via Zoom 10AM – 1PM Central\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003eThis class will be recorded if you cannot attend live.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAny questions about this class? Use the Chat Button to talk with us. \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eInstructor Amber Sparks is the author of the novel, \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003eHappy People Don’t Live Here\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cspan\u003e, and a forthcoming short story collection, \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003eDid Parents in the Middle Ages Love Their Children? \u003c\/em\u003e\u003cspan\u003e(both from Liveright\/W.W. Norton), and four collections of short fiction, including \u003c\/span\u003e\u003ci\u003eAnd I Do Not Forgive You: Revenges and other Stories\u003c\/i\u003e\u003cspan\u003e and \u003c\/span\u003e\u003ci\u003eThe Unfinished World\u003c\/i\u003e\u003cspan\u003e. Her fiction and essays have appeared in \u003c\/span\u003e\u003ci\u003eAmerican Short Fiction, the Paris Review, Slate, Tin House, Granta, The Cut,\u003c\/i\u003e\u003cspan\u003e and elsewhere.  \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFabulist fiction tends toward the exotic, the historical, the once-upon-a-time, the far-flung. Saramago and Rushdie have created worlds where the unthinkable has happened; Dinesen reports back from centuries and countries ago, from castles, counts and courtiers; Angela Carter gives us new-old fairy tales from long ago.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBut domestic fabulism takes the elements of fabulism — the animals that talk, the weather that wills itself into being, the people who can fly — and pulls them in tight, bringing them home. Domestic fabulism uses elements like a magnifying glass, or rather, a funhouse mirror. It simultaneously distorts and reveals the true nature of the home, the family, the place of belonging or, in many cases, not belonging at all. Steven Millhauser, Kelly Link, Can Xue, and Joy Williams all write this kind of un-homely, or unheimlich, Freud’s word for it. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn this seminar, we’ll go through examples and rules of domestic fabulism, read a few pieces of fiction that fit the description, and use the rules to weird up a piece of your writing that needs a little edge. And we’ll work together through several generative writing exercises that will leave you with a couple of different solid pieces of writing to take home and work on. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWho is This Class For? \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis class is designed for fiction writers who want to explore magical realism and fabulist techniques within familiar, domestic settings. It's perfect for authors seeking to add supernatural edge and deeper meaning to stories about home, family, and everyday life.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCan't Make It Live?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eNo problem! The session will be recorded and available to watch after the seminar concludes.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTAKE THIS CLASS IF\u003c\/strong\u003e:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eYou're finding the constraints of your current writing practice too limiting.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eYou want exposure to a range of new approaches to bring to your writing practice.\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eYou want an expanded sense of what is possible in your work.\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSEMINAR TAKEAWAYS:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e1. Master the principles and techniques of domestic fabulism, learning how to infuse ordinary home and family settings with fantastical elements that reveal deeper truths about belonging and identity.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e2. Develop skills to transform mundane domestic scenes using fabulist tools like talking animals, sentient weather, and characters with supernatural abilities as a \"funhouse mirror\" to distort and illuminate reality.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e3. Analyze exemplary works by Steven Millhauser, Kelly Link, Can Xue, and Joy Williams to understand how successful authors create the \"unheimlich\" or uncanny atmosphere in familiar settings.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e4. Complete multiple generative writing exercises and receive guidance on revising existing work, leaving with several polished pieces that effectively blend the domestic with the weird.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTESTIMONIALS:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"\"\u003e\"\u003cem\u003eI took Amber's Modern Gothic class on a whim after seeing Amber mention it on Twitter. It exceeded my expectations. I come from a very traditional educational background and found Amber's perspective quite refreshing and very useful for my work in progress. Really this class blew my mind. It as exactly the espresso shot my private writing practice needed. I really appreciated the concrete craft lessons. I am at a stage of writing where this is exactly what I need\u003c\/em\u003e.\"\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"\"\u003e\"\u003cem\u003eOne of the more creative workshops I have ever taken. Amber Sparks really got me to think in different and creative ways. It was the right class at the right time for me.\u003c\/em\u003e\"\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"\"\u003e\"\u003cem\u003eI really enjoyed Amber Sparks' workshop on Fractured Narrative! Great list of possible approaches to non-linear story-telling with helpful references to specific author's works as examples. Good exercises. Really enjoyed the chat input from other attendees as well. Great value for the price.\u003c\/em\u003e\"\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"\"\u003e\"\u003cem\u003eThis class was great. From the powerpoint slides, examples, fun exercises, very short stories to read during class, and Amber's friendly responsiveness in the chat and of course her expertise, I would highly recommend studying with Amber!\u003c\/em\u003e\"\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"\"\u003e\"\u003cem\u003eThis was very good. The prompts and the mini-workshop were great. This was my first course. So far, so good. Easy to register and you are very responsive.\u003c\/em\u003e\"\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eONLINE COURSE STRUCTURE\u003c\/strong\u003e: \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThis class will meet via Zoom on Saturday, December 13th, 2025, from 10AM - 1PM CST\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003ePAYMENT OPTIONS\u003c\/strong\u003e:\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eTuition is $99 USD. You can pay for the course in full \u003ci\u003e or\u003c\/i\u003e use Affirm to pay over time with equal Monthly Payments. Both options are available at checkout.\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cul data-rte-list=\"default\"\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eAmber Sparks | Live via Zoom\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSaturday, August 1st, 2026\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eLive Seminar Via Zoom 10AM – 1PM Central\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003eTuition is $99 USD.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"\"\u003eSeminar is fully ONLINE and meets via Zoom\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Writing Workshops Org","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":46636185813240,"sku":null,"price":99.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0287\/3917\/4532\/files\/TheModernGothicMakingHauntedFictionsforthe21stCenturyZoomSeminarwithAmberSparks.png?v=1748029608"},{"product_id":"idea-generators-discovering-new-direction-in-your-writing-a-zoom-seminar-with-ethan-joella","title":"Idea Generators: Discovering New Direction in Your Writing, a Cross-Genre Zoom Seminar with Ethan Joella on Wednesday, May 6th, 2026","description":"\u003cdiv id=\"block-689061bb302a5b82a1ea\" data-block-type=\"2\" class=\"sqs-block html-block sqs-block-html\"\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWednesday, May 6th, 2026\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe class will meet via Zoom, 6:00PM - 8:00PM EST\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAny questions about this class? Use the Chat Button to talk with\u003c\/strong\u003e us.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"sqs-block-content\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEthan Joella i\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003es the author of the \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003enovels \u003ci\u003eA Little Hope\u003c\/i\u003e (Scribner, 2021), which was a Read \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003ewith Jenna Bonus Selection, \u003ci\u003eA Quiet Life\u003c\/i\u003e (Scribner, \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e2022), \u003ci\u003eThe Same Bright Stars\u003c\/i\u003e (Scribner, 2024), and \u003cem\u003eThe Top of the World\u003c\/em\u003e (Scribner, 2026). \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003eHis books have been featured in \u003ci\u003eThe New York Times, People, \u003c\/i\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003eand\u003ci\u003e Good Housekeeping\u003c\/i\u003e.  Ethan teaches English and \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003epsychology at the University of Delaware and specializes in community writing workshops. He lives in Rehoboth Beach, Delaware \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003ewith his family.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHave you been poring over the same piece nonstop and need a break? Do you have a new idea but aren’t sure how to get started with it? Are you just generally looking for new approaches or inspiration? Then this one-day workshop is for you.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn this class, we’ll do a series of prompts to help you get out of your groove and get started on something fresh.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWe’ll discuss issues such as where to begin and end the piece and how to achieve transparency and momentum.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWriters will be invited (not required) to share work and exchange ideas. All genres welcome!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCan't Make It Live?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan\u003eNo problem! The session will be recorded and available to watch after the seminar concludes.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"sqs-block-content\"\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eCOURSE TAKEAWAYS:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eEthan will share examples in various genres.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eStudents will discuss idea generation and do response exercises.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eStudents will come away with new ideas to enhance character or setting, try different structures, or add conflict or resolution.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTESTIMONIALS:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\"\u003cem\u003eI really appreciated how the weekly feedback that was specific to my work. I would recommend this to any writer looking to take their work to the next level.\u003c\/em\u003e\" - Tara K.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\"\u003cem\u003eThis class exceeded my expectations. The assignments were well-defined, and Ethan's thoughtful feedback pushed me out of my comfort zone. I felt that the class was really well-scoped. I'd love to take further classes with Ethan, especially anything around character interiority and expressing a character's needs\/wants\u003c\/em\u003e.\" -Lizz H.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\"\u003cem\u003eEthan is such a thoughtful teacher. I really enjoyed this class and hope he teaches more classes soon\u003c\/em\u003e!\" -former student\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\"\u003cem\u003eThis class exceeded my expectations and now I have a new tool in my writing toolbox!\u003c\/em\u003e\" -former student\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003ePAYMENT OPTIONS\u003c\/strong\u003e: \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003eYou can pay for the course in full \u003ci\u003e or\u003c\/i\u003e use Shop Pay or Affirm to pay over time with equal Monthly Payments. Both options are available at checkout.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eONLINE COURSE STRUCTURE:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTuition is $99 USD. This class will meet live via Zoom. If you can't attend live, a recording will be provided.\u003cstrong\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul data-rte-list=\"default\"\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"\"\u003eInstructor: Ethan Joella\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"\"\u003eWednesday, May 6th, 2026\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"\"\u003eThe class will meet via Zoom, 6:00PM - 8:00PM EST\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003eTuition is $99 USD.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv id=\"block-3d8366dec4183f93ceae\" data-block-type=\"2\" class=\"sqs-block html-block sqs-block-html\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"sqs-block-content\"\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"\"\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Writing Workshops Org","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":46679845110008,"sku":null,"price":99.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0287\/3917\/4532\/files\/EthanJoellaUpdatedHeadshot2026.png?v=1772561669"},{"product_id":"the-road-to-getting-published-from-rejection-to-read-with-jenna-a-zoom-seminar-with-ethan-joella","title":"The Road to Getting Published: From Rejection to Read with Jenna, a Zoom Seminar with Ethan Joella on Wednesday, August 5th, 2026","description":"\u003cdiv id=\"block-689061bb302a5b82a1ea\" data-block-type=\"2\" class=\"sqs-block html-block sqs-block-html\"\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWednesday, August 5th, 2026\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe class will meet via Zoom, 6:00PM - 8:00PM EST\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAny questions about this class? Use the Chat Button to talk with\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003cstrong\u003eus.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"sqs-block-content\"\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eA Master Class with Acclaimed Novelist Ethan Joella\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eJoin Scribner-published novelist Ethan Joella for an actionable seminar that reveals the exact strategies he used to break through years of rejection and land a dream publishing deal with one of literature's most prestigious houses.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eYour Instructor's Journey: From 100+ Rejections to Literary Success\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBefore becoming a \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.instagram.com\/p\/CplvvJsr53Z\/?hl=en\u0026amp;img_index=1\" title=\"Ethan Joella's Novel is a Read with Jenna Bonus Pick author\" rel=\"noopener\" target=\"_blank\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eRead with Jenna Bonus Pick author\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e featured in \u003cem\u003eThe New York Times\u003c\/em\u003e, \u003cem\u003ePeople\u003c\/em\u003e, and \u003cem\u003eGood Housekeeping\u003c\/em\u003e, Ethan Joella queried nearly every literary agent in the country. Today, his novels—\u003cem\u003eA Little Hope\u003c\/em\u003e, \u003cem\u003eA Quiet Life\u003c\/em\u003e, \u003cem\u003eThe Same Bright Stars, \u003c\/em\u003eand\u003cem\u003e The Top of the World\u003c\/em\u003e—\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.simonandschuster.com\/authors\/Ethan-Joella\/178936526\" title=\"Ethan Joella Author Page at Scribner\" rel=\"noopener\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eare published by Scribner.\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAs a WritingWorkshops.com alum who attended our 2019 Writing Workshop in Paris, France, as a student, Ethan understands precisely where you are in your writing journey.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNow, as one of our most beloved instructors leading workshops in Dublin, Paris, and Tuscany, Ethan plans to share the insider knowledge that changed everything.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eWho Should Attend:\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eFiction writers\u003c\/strong\u003e with completed manuscripts ready for the next step\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eEmerging authors\u003c\/strong\u003e seeking their first traditional publishing deal\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eWriters facing rejection\u003c\/strong\u003e who need proven strategies to break through\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eSerious writers\u003c\/strong\u003e committed to understanding the business side of publishing\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eAnyone who's wondered: \u003cem\u003e\"My writing is strong—why aren't agents responding?\"\u003c\/em\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eWhy Learn from Ethan Joella:\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eEthan's journey is recent, relevant, and replicable. He secured his agent in 2019 and has published three acclaimed novels in rapid succession—all while teaching and raising a family. His approach is practical, tested, and designed for today's hypercompetitive publishing landscape.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAs both a University of Delaware professor and a working novelist, Ethan brings a unique dual perspective: the analytical precision of an educator and the hard-won wisdom of someone who's navigated every stage of the publishing process.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eFormat:\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003e1:45 minutes\u003c\/strong\u003e of concentrated, actionable instruction\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003e15 minutes\u003c\/strong\u003e of Q\u0026amp;A to address your specific publishing questions\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eAccess\u003c\/strong\u003e to the recording for enrolled participants\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eBonus\u003c\/strong\u003e: Sample query letter template based on Ethan's successful approach\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTESTIMONIALS:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\"\u003cem\u003eI would recommend this to any writer looking to take their work to the next level.\u003c\/em\u003e\" - Tara K.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\"\u003cem\u003eEthan is such a thoughtful teacher. I really enjoyed this class and hope he teaches more classes soon\u003c\/em\u003e!\" -former student\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\"\u003cem\u003eThis class exceeded my expectations and now I have a new tool in my writing toolbox!\u003c\/em\u003e\" -former student\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCan't Make It Live?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan\u003eNo problem! The session will be recorded and available to watch after the seminar concludes.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"sqs-block-content\"\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cbr\u003ePAYMENT OPTIONS\u003c\/strong\u003e: \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003eYou can pay for the course in full\u003cspan style=\"box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003ci\u003eor\u003c\/i\u003e use Shop Pay or Affirm to pay over time with equal Monthly Payments. Both options are available at checkout.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eONLINE COURSE STRUCTURE:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTuition is $99 USD. This class will meet live via Zoom. If you can't attend live, a recording will be provided.\u003cstrong\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul data-rte-list=\"default\"\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eInstructor: Ethan Joella\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWednesday, August 5th, 2026\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe class will meet via Zoom, 6:00PM - 8:00PM EST \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eTuition is $99 USD. \u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv id=\"block-3d8366dec4183f93ceae\" data-block-type=\"2\" class=\"sqs-block html-block sqs-block-html\"\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Writing Workshops Org","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":46684293759224,"sku":null,"price":99.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0287\/3917\/4532\/files\/EthanJoellaUpdatedHeadshot2026.png?v=1772561669"},{"product_id":"writing-funnier-nonfiction-a-zoom-seminar-with-elissa-bassist","title":"Writing Funnier Nonfiction, a Zoom Seminar with Elissa Bassist on Sunday, April 19th, 2026","description":"\u003ch2\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSunday, April 19th, 2026\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eLive Seminar via Zoom from 2:30PM - 5:30PM EST \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e🌍 Class Times by Time Zone: \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003eLos Angeles (PST): 11:30 AM – 2:30 PM \/ Chicago (CST): 1:30 PM – 4:30 PM \/ New York (EST): 2:30 PM – 5:30 PM \/ London (GMT): 7:30 PM – 10:30 PM \/ Berlin (CET): 8:30 PM – 11:30 PM\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAny questions about this class? Use the Chat Button to talk with us. \u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eElissa Bassist is the editor of the “Funny Women” column on \u003cem\u003eThe Rumpus\u003c\/em\u003e and the author of \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/bookshop.org\/p\/books\/hysterical-a-memoir-elissa-bassist\/18687565?gclid=Cj0KCQjwtsCgBhDEARIsAE7RYh3KOJnQB25_SDN0m2OftIJJSRbgZz2_nxE22qNpD8Vk1EbOCdskaG4aAiQDEALw_wcB\" title=\"Hysterical by Elissa Bassist\" target=\"_blank\"\u003e\u003cem\u003eHysterical\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e, a semi-finalist for the Thurber Prize for American Humor. As a founding contributor to \u003cem\u003eThe Rumpus\u003c\/em\u003e, Elissa has written cultural and personal criticism since the website launched in 2009. INSIDE JOKES, a humor writing craft book, co-written with Caitlin Kunkel, is forthcoming from Grand Central Publishing in 2026. Elissa teaches humor writing at The New School and elsewhere, and she is probably her therapist’s favorite. \u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"background-color: white;\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003e\u003cem\u003eIn this seminar, we’ll focus on comedy tools and tricks to write laugh-out-loud sentences. We’ll practice many in class, including exaggeration, comparison, contrast, contradiction, repetition, misdirection, figurative and visual language, irony, self-deprecation, \"rule of three,\" \"the third thought,\" absurdity, escalation, and punchlines. \u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYou don’t have to be born with a sense of humor to be funny and to write funny. Funny is a skill like any other. In this seminar, we’ll break down the skill and gossip about how to use it to joke with confidence about yourself, your life, and your world. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNot to brag, but you can use comedic foundations, tools, and tricks in all nonfiction, including sad memoirs, sad essays, and sad dating profiles.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWriters of every level and astrological sign are invited to learn and practice concrete ways to use their own lives\/parents\/exes to be funnier in their writing. By the end of our time together, everyone will know 50-ish new devices to be funnier on the page and at parties, but if that doesn’t happen, it's not my fault.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePreparation and workload: \u003c\/strong\u003eRead (and love) \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/bookshop.org\/a\/18715\/9780306827372\" title=\"Hysterical: A Memoir by Elissa Bassist (Author)\" rel=\"noopener\" target=\"_blank\"\u003e\u003cem\u003eHysterical\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e (if you want). There will be handouts (to reference during classes) and brainstorming and writing exercises (to be done in class). Elissa will provide PDFs of funny nonfiction pieces. You’ll bring in one page of your own writing to revive it with everything you learn in class. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCan't Make It Live?\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003eNo problem! The session will be recorded and available to watch after the seminar concludes.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"sqs-block-content\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eCOURSE TAKEAWAYS:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"sqs-block-content\"\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eTransform personal experiences using humor frameworks that work across all writing\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eLearn every known comedic device to add humor to any creative nonfiction project, from memoirs to personal essays\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eDevelop your comedic voice and technical skill through in-class exercises \u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"sqs-block-content\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTESTIMONIALS:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\"I loved this class. Elissa was an extremely generous teacher\/storyteller. I think listening to her talk about her experience\/struggles to get words on the page was the most valuable part. I was amazed with Elissa’s ability to focus and maintain passion and energy for 3 straight hours. I was completely engaged in her personal writing journey and was satisfied with spending 3 hours listening to her speak.\" -former student\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\"This was a fun class! I found Elissa's personal takes and experiences in both the process and in finding a home for her writing most valuable. The process seems much more manageable to me now, and I would take another class with Elissa.\" -former student\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\"I heard about WritingWorkshop.com via \u003cem\u003eHippocampus Magazine\u003c\/em\u003e. I'm so happy I found Elissa's class, which was filled with many small insights that added up to a lot. I left the class feeling inspired. Thank you.\" -former student\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\"Elissa's seminar exceeded my expectations! She provided real-world solutions for rejection and included so many thought-provoking prompts. This class was so rich with information it could have easily been a 6-week course.\"-former student\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\"This class was SO, SO GOOD!!!! By far, my favorite ever of the many many I have taken with Catapult, Grubstreet, Porch, CFF, and WritingWorkshops.com. Big compliments! Thank you!!! Learned a lot and was furiously taking down notes; what marvelous advice and stories you have. Can't wait to read HYSTERICAL and the books that will come after that.\" -former student\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"sqs-block-content\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003ePAYMENT OPTIONS\u003c\/strong\u003e: \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003eTuition is $99 USD. You can pay for the course in full\u003ci\u003e or\u003c\/i\u003e use Shop Pay or Affirm to pay over time with equal Monthly Payments. Both options are available at checkout.\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cul data-rte-list=\"default\"\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"\"\u003eSunday, April 19th, 2026\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"\"\u003eLive Seminar via Zoom from 2:30PM - 5:30PM EST\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eTuition is $99 USD.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e🌍 \u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eClass Times by Time Zone: \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003eLos Angeles (PST): 11:30 AM – 2:30 PM \/ Chicago (CST): 1:30 PM – 4:30 PM \/ New York (EST): 2:30 PM – 5:30 PM \/ London (GMT): 7:30 PM – 10:30 PM \/ Berlin (CET): 8:30 PM – 11:30 PM\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Writing Workshops Org","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":46684498329848,"sku":null,"price":99.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0287\/3917\/4532\/files\/ElissaBassistHeadshot2025.png?v=1757622875"},{"product_id":"start-podcast-workshop-courtney-kocak","title":"So You Want to Start a Podcast? Zoom Seminar with Courtney Kocak on Sunday, July 12th, 2026","description":"\u003ch2\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSunday, July 12th, 2026\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eLive Seminar via Zoom from 11:00AM - 2:00PM Pacific \u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e🌍 \u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eClass Times by Time Zone: \u003c\/strong\u003eLos Angeles (PDT): 11:00 AM – 2:00 PM \/ Chicago (CDT): 1:00 PM – 4:00 PM \/ New York (EDT): 2:00 PM – 5:00 PM \/ London (BST): 7:00 PM – 10:00 PM \/ Berlin (CEST): 8:00 PM – 11:00 PM\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAny questions about this class? Use the Chat Button to talk with us. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eInstructor \u003ca rel=\"noopener\" title=\"Courtney Kocak's Author Website\" href=\"https:\/\/www.courtneykocak.com\/\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eCourtney Kocak\u003c\/a\u003e is a writer, podcaster, and comedian who splits time between Austin and Los Angeles. She wrote for Amazon’s Emmy-winning animated series \u003cem\u003eDanger \u0026amp; Eggs \u003c\/em\u003eand Netflix’s \u003cem\u003eKnow It All\u003c\/em\u003e. She’s produced a slew of highly-ranked podcasts—including \u003cem\u003eThe Bellas Podcast\u003c\/em\u003e, which debuted at #1 on Apple Podcasts, PayPal’s Never Stand Still, and Girlboss Radio—and currently hosts three of her own with over two million downloads to date: \u003cem\u003ePrivate Parts Unknown\u003c\/em\u003e, about love and sexuality around the world, \u003cem\u003eThe Bleeders\u003c\/em\u003e, about book writing and publishing, and \u003cem\u003ePodcast Bestie\u003c\/em\u003e, a best friend to podcasters trying to grow and monetize their shows (and a popular Substack). Her bylines include \u003cem\u003eThe New York Times, The Washington Post, LA Times, Cosmopolitan, Slate, HuffPost, Business Insider, InsideHook\u003c\/em\u003e, and more. Her debut memoir, \u003cem\u003eGirl Gone Wild\u003c\/em\u003e, with Trio House Press, is coming in March 2026!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003cem\u003eWhether you’re podcast-curious, in the early planning stages, or simply want to see how audio could complement your writing, this crash course will give you clarity, confidence, and actionable steps to get started. It’s perfect for creatives at any level who want to test the waters and see if podcasting is a good outlet for them.\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSo You Want to Start a Podcast?\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA one-day crash course covering concept, gear, launch strategy \u0026amp; sustainable production.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThinking about starting a podcast but not sure where to begin? Or maybe you want the big-picture blueprint before diving in? This one-day intensive will give you everything you need to understand the essentials—without the overwhelm.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAward-winning audio producer, writer, and podcaster Courtney Kocak will walk you through the entire process: from refining your concept to choosing the right gear, setting up a realistic production workflow, and building a launch plan that sets you up for sustainable success.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYou’ll get a high-level overview of the process plus practical tips that can save you time, money, and headaches. Plus, because podcasting doesn’t have to be all-or-nothing, you’ll learn easy ways to dip your toe in and test out podcasting on Substack—so you can see if it’s the right fit before committing fully.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhether you’re podcast-curious, in the early planning stages, or simply want to see how audio could complement your writing, this crash course will give you clarity, confidence, and actionable steps to get started. It’s perfect for creatives at any level who want to test the waters and see if podcasting is a good outlet for them.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eIf you can't attend this class live, it will be recorded! Students will receive a recording the day after the class, which will be available for 30 days.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"sqs-block-content\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCOURSE TAKEAWAYS:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"sqs-block-content\"\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"sqs-block-content\"\u003e\u003cem\u003eIn this course, students will leave with a polished podcast concept, a clear understanding of gear and recording basics, a sustainable production plan, and a high-level launch and marketing strategy. They’ll also explore easy ways to test podcasting on Substack to see if it’s the right creative outlet for them.\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eA clear podcast concept and positioning strategy\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eGear recommendations and recording basics to fit your needs and budget\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eA realistic sense of sustainable production workflows\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eA high-level launch and marketing strategy to get your show off the ground\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eTips for audience growth \u0026amp; long-term traction\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ePractical ways to test your podcast on Substack before fully committing\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCOURSE TESTIMONIALS:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\"This was such a great experience. Thank you for your time and insights. :)\"\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\"Love this! Just wrote a draft! It is terrible, but there is a nugget in here to rewrite, so thank you!!\"\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\"This was an amazing class, thank you so much!!\"\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\"Just a few weeks back, I took this phenomenal workshop! Courtney Kocak was an absolute gem, sharing many practical tips and providing an amazing PDF follow-up!\"\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\"If you find this platform-building thing mystifying, scary, or just need encouragement, you should sign up.\"\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\"Some of the best cash I've spent this year.\"\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"sqs-block-content\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003ePAYMENT OPTIONS\u003c\/strong\u003e: \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003eYou can pay for the course in full\u003ci\u003e or\u003c\/i\u003e use Shop Pay or Affirm to pay over time with equal Monthly Payments. Both options are available at checkout.\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cul data-rte-list=\"default\"\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"\"\u003eInstructor: Courtney Kocak\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"\"\u003eSunday, July 12th, 2026\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"\"\u003eLive Seminar via Zoom from 11:00AM - 2:00PM Pacific\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Writing Workshops Org","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":46740582990072,"sku":null,"price":99.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0287\/3917\/4532\/files\/Courtney_Kocak_Headshot_3_d6f4e7be-80d6-4942-9cbf-aa14bbb5e277.png?v=1773259273"},{"product_id":"edit-elevate-revision-intensive-zoom-seminar-with-courtney-kocak","title":"Edit \u0026 Elevate: Revision Intensive Zoom Seminar with Courtney Kocak on Sunday, July 26th, 2026","description":"\u003ch2\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSunday, July 26th, 2026\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eLive Seminar via Zoom from 11:00AM - 2:00PM Pacific \u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e🌍 \u003cem\u003eClass Times by Time Zone: \u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003eLos Angeles (PDT): 11:00 AM – 2:00 PM \/ Chicago (CDT): 1:00 PM – 4:00 PM \/ New York (EDT): 2:00 PM – 5:00 PM \/ London (BST): 7:00 PM – 10:00 PM \/ Berlin (CEST): 8:00 PM – 11:00 PM\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAny questions about this class? Use the Chat Button to talk with us.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eInstructor \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.courtneykocak.com\/\" title=\"Courtney Kocak's Author Website\" rel=\"noopener\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eCourtney Kocak\u003c\/a\u003e is a writer, podcaster, and comedian who splits time between Austin and Los Angeles. She wrote for Amazon’s Emmy-winning animated series \u003cem\u003eDanger \u0026amp; Eggs \u003c\/em\u003eand Netflix’s \u003cem\u003eKnow It All\u003c\/em\u003e. She’s produced a slew of highly-ranked podcasts—including \u003cem\u003eThe Bellas Podcast\u003c\/em\u003e, which debuted at #1 on Apple Podcasts, PayPal’s Never Stand Still, and Girlboss Radio—and currently hosts three of her own with over two million downloads to date: \u003cem\u003ePrivate Parts Unknown\u003c\/em\u003e, about love and sexuality around the world, \u003cem\u003eThe Bleeders\u003c\/em\u003e, about book writing and publishing, and \u003cem\u003ePodcast Bestie\u003c\/em\u003e, a best friend to podcasters trying to grow and monetize their shows (and a popular Substack). Her bylines include \u003cem\u003eThe New York Times, The Washington Post, LA Times, Cosmopolitan, Slate, HuffPost, Business Insider, InsideHook\u003c\/em\u003e, and more. Her debut memoir, \u003cem\u003eGirl Gone Wild\u003c\/em\u003e, with Trio House Press, is coming in March 2026!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003cem\u003eThis course is designed for creative nonfiction writers seeking to elevate their work to the next level. Open to all experience levels, it’s designed to help you see your writing with fresh eyes and sharpen every element on the page.\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBring up to three essays or your memoir manuscript-in-progress. Girl Gone Wild author Courtney Kocak will lead a focused, hands-on revision session drawing on lessons she learned while revising her debut memoir.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThrough guided exercises, you’ll refine your structure, deepen your context, strengthen your dialogue, heighten emotional resonance, and polish everything from sentence rhythm to grammar.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYou’ll work directly on your own essays or manuscript pages, learning strategies to fully realize and refine your work, with opportunities to ask questions along the way. By the end of class, you’ll walk away with a clear revision roadmap and practical techniques to keep elevating your creative nonfiction on your own long after the class ends.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhether you’re polishing a single essay for submission, preparing multiple pieces for publication, or pushing your memoir draft toward the finish line, this intensive will help you unlock the full potential of your writing.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eIf you can't attend this class live, it will be recorded! Students will receive a recording on the Monday after the class, which will be available for 60 days.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"sqs-block-content\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCOURSE TAKEAWAYS:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"sqs-block-content\"\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"sqs-block-content\"\u003e\u003cem\u003eAlong with guided exercises and Q\u0026amp;A, students will thoroughly revise at least one essay..\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eProven revision strategies to expand, refine, and polish your creative nonfiction.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eHands-on exercises that help you confidently elevate your work independently.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eA revision checklist to ensure your work is fully realized.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eLessons from revising a full-length memoir that you can apply to your own writing.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCOURSE TESTIMONIALS:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\"It exceeded my expectations. Within the first ten minutes, I knew I had made a solid decision to register. I am very careful with how I spend my money these days and signing up for a workshop or course always feels like a risk. I would definitely take another class with Courtney.\"\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\"I appreciated Courtney's straightforward and methodical approach to revisions. She gave me exactly what I was looking for.\"\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\"The revision checklist is worth the price of admission. Thank you.\"\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\"This was such a great experience. Thank you for your time and insights. :)\"\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\"Love this! Just wrote a draft! It is terrible, but there is a nugget in here to rewrite, so thank you!!\"\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\"This was an amazing class, thank you so much!!\"\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\"Just a few weeks back, I took this phenomenal workshop! Courtney Kocak was an absolute gem, sharing many practical tips and providing an amazing PDF follow-up!\"\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\"If you find this platform-building thing mystifying, scary, or just need encouragement, you should sign up.\"\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\"Some of the best cash I've spent this year.\"\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"sqs-block-content\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003ePAYMENT OPTIONS\u003c\/strong\u003e: \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003eYou can pay for the course in full\u003ci\u003e or\u003c\/i\u003e use Shop Pay or Affirm to pay over time with equal Monthly Payments. Both options are available at checkout.\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cul data-rte-list=\"default\"\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"\"\u003eInstructor: Courtney Kocak\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"\"\u003eSunday, July 26th, 2026\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"\"\u003eLive Seminar via Zoom from 11:00AM - 2:00PM PST\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cscribe-shadow id=\"crxjs-ext\" data-crx=\"okfkdaglfjjjfefdcppliegebpoegaii\" style=\"position: fixed; width: 0px; height: 0px; top: 0px; left: 0px; z-index: 2147483647; overflow: visible; visibility: visible;\"\u003e\u003c\/scribe-shadow\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Writing Workshops Org","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":46746465698040,"sku":null,"price":99.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0287\/3917\/4532\/files\/Courtney_Kocak_Headshot_1.png?v=1753734544"},{"product_id":"how-to-make-2027-your-best-writing-year-yet-manifest-your-writing-goals-zoom-seminar-with-courtney-kocak","title":"How to Make 2027 Your Best Writing Year Yet: Manifest Your Writing Goals Zoom Seminar with Courtney Kocak on Sunday, December 27th, 2026","description":"\u003ch2\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSunday, December 27th, 2026\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eLive Seminar via Zoom from 10:00AM - 1:00PM PST \u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e🌍 \u003cem\u003eClass Times by Time Zone: \u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003eLos Angeles (PST): 10:00 AM – 1:00 PM \/ Chicago (CST): 12:00 PM – 3:00 PM \/ New York (EST): 1:00 PM – 4:00 PM \/ London (GMT): 6:00 PM – 9:00 PM \/ Berlin (CET): 7:00 PM – 10:00 PM\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAny questions about this class? Use the Chat Button to talk with us. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eInstructor \u003ca rel=\"noopener\" title=\"Courtney Kocak's Author Website\" href=\"https:\/\/www.courtneykocak.com\/\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eCourtney Kocak\u003c\/a\u003e is a writer, podcaster, and comedian who splits time between Austin and Los Angeles. She wrote for Amazon’s Emmy-winning animated series\u003cem\u003e Danger \u0026amp; Eggs\u003c\/em\u003e and Netflix’s \u003cem\u003eKnow It All\u003c\/em\u003e. She’s produced a slew of highly-ranked podcasts—including \u003cem\u003eThe Bellas Podcast,\u003c\/em\u003e which debuted at #1 on Apple Podcasts, PayPal’s \u003cem\u003eNever Stand Still\u003c\/em\u003e, and \u003cem\u003eGirlboss Radio\u003c\/em\u003e—and currently hosts three of her own with over two million downloads to date: \u003cem\u003ePrivate Parts Unknown\u003c\/em\u003e, about love and sexuality around the world, \u003cem\u003eThe Bleeders\u003c\/em\u003e, about book writing and publishing, and \u003cem\u003ePodcast Bestie\u003c\/em\u003e, a best friend to podcasters trying to grow and monetize their shows (and a popular Substack). Her bylines include \u003cem\u003eThe New York Times, The Washington Post, LA Times, Cosmopolitan, Slate, HuffPost, Business Insider, InsideHook\u003c\/em\u003e, and more. Her debut memoir, \u003cem\u003eGirl Gone Wild\u003c\/em\u003e, with Trio House Press, is coming in March 2026!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003eThis course is for writers of all genres who want to set clear, intentional goals and create an actionable plan for their writing in 2027. It’s open to all levels, whether you’re just starting out or deep into a manuscript.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eManifest Your Best Writing Year Yet!\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e2027 is just around the corner, and writer\/instructor Courtney Kocak wants to help you get intentional about your writing goals for the new year. If you’ve got a million ideas swirling around in your head but aren’t sure how to focus, or if you just need a jolt of inspiration to kick yourself into gear, this 90-minute workshop will set you up for success.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCourtney will guide you through a reflective process to review 2026, clarify your priorities for the year ahead, and translate your creative dreams into an actionable plan. Through exercises in visualization, goal-setting, and strategic planning, you’ll map out your most intentional and productive writing year yet.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDuring class, you’ll pause, dream big, and create a clear plan of attack to manifest your best writing year in 2027.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eIf you can't attend this class live, it will be recorded! Students will receive a recording on the Monday after the class, which will be available for 60 days.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"sqs-block-content\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCOURSE TAKEAWAYS:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"sqs-block-content\"\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"sqs-block-content\"\u003e\n\u003cem\u003eIn this course, students will identify their top writing goals for 2027, prioritize which projects to focus on, and create a clear, actionable plan to achieve them. Through guided exercises in reflection, visualization, and goal-setting, students will leave with a personalized roadmap for their most productive and intentional writing year yet\u003c\/em\u003e.\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eA guide opportunity to reflect on what worked and what didn't in 2026\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eAn actionable writing plan for 2027\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eTools for prioritizing your most important goals\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eVisualization techniques to manifest your best writing year yet\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eA renewed sense of clarity, confidence, and excitement heading into the new year\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCOURSE TESTIMONIALS:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\"This was such a great experience. Thank you for your time and insights. :)\"\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\"Love this! Just wrote a draft! It is terrible, but there is a nugget in here to rewrite, so thank you!!\"\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\"This was an amazing class, thank you so much!!\"\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\"Just a few weeks back, I took this phenomenal workshop! Courtney Kocak was an absolute gem, sharing many practical tips and providing an amazing PDF follow-up!\"\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\"If you find this platform-building thing mystifying, scary, or just need encouragement, you should sign up.\"\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\"Some of the best cash I've spent this year.\"\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"sqs-block-content\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003ePAYMENT OPTIONS\u003c\/strong\u003e: \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003eYou can pay for the course in full\u003ci\u003e or\u003c\/i\u003e use Shop Pay or Affirm to pay over time with equal Monthly Payments. Both options are available at checkout.\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cul data-rte-list=\"default\"\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"\"\u003eInstructor: Courtney Kocak\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"\"\u003eSunday, December 27th, 2026\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"\"\u003eLive Seminar via Zoom from 10:00AM - 1:00PM PST\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e🌍 \u003cem\u003eClass Times by Time Zone: \u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003eLos Angeles (PST): 10:00 AM – 1:00 PM \/ Chicago (CST): 12:00 PM – 3:00 PM \/ New York (EST): 1:00 PM – 4:00 PM \/ London (GMT): 6:00 PM – 9:00 PM \/ Berlin (CET): 7:00 PM – 10:00 PM\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Writing Workshops Org","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":46778284769528,"sku":null,"price":99.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0287\/3917\/4532\/files\/Courtney_Kocak_Headshot_1.png?v=1753734544"},{"product_id":"transform-your-fiction-with-proven-cinematic-storytelling-techniques","title":"Creating Cinematic Fiction: A Crash Course Utilizing Lessons from Film \u0026 TV Zoom Seminar with Peter Malone Elliott on Sunday, April 12th, 2026","description":"\u003ch2\u003eSunday, April 12th, 2026\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eClass will meet via Zoom from 3PM - 4PM ET. \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e🌍 \u003cem\u003eClass Times by Time Zone:\u003c\/em\u003e \u003c\/strong\u003eLos Angeles (PST): 12:00 PM – 1:00 PM \/ Chicago (CST): 2:00 PM – 3:00 PM \/ New York (EST): 3:00 PM – 4:00 PM \/ London (GMT): 8:00 PM – 9:00 PM \/ Berlin (CET): 9:00 PM – 10:00 PM\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eA recording will be provided if you cannot attend live.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAny questions about this class? Use the Chat Button to talk with us. \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eInstructor Peter Malone Elliott\u003c\/strong\u003e is an accomplished screenwriter and novelist. Before he wrote and co-produced the feature film WIRED SHUT, which was nominated for three honors at the 2022 Leo Awards, including \u003cem\u003eBest Screenwriting, Motion Picture\u003c\/em\u003e, he was the $25,000 Grand Prize Winner of one of the film industry’s most prestigious screenwriting contests. His debut novel, BLUE RIDGE, was released to critical acclaim and nominated for \u003cem\u003eBest Debut Mystery\u003c\/em\u003e at the 2025 Lefty Awards. In addition to his career as a screenwriter and novelist, Peter is an experienced developmental editor who specializes in working with authors whose work has high potential for film \u0026amp; TV adaptation. Peter is a creative writing instructor of undergraduates at Drexel University, and has previously co-taught successful WritingWorkshops.com seminars with his \u003cem\u003eNY Times\u003c\/em\u003e bestselling mother, L.M. Elliott.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eTransform Your Fiction with Proven Cinematic Storytelling Techniques\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eJoin Peter for a comprehensive yet succinct seminar where he walks you through some of the most potent tangibles of cinematic storytelling and teaches you how to implement them into your prose to create propulsive, page-turning works of fiction—no matter the genre.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eWhat You'll Learn\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e45 minutes of focused, easily digestible instruction covering:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eThree-Act Structure\u003c\/strong\u003e – Master the foundation of compelling narrative architecture\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eUsing Conflict and Tension\u003c\/strong\u003e – Create satisfying emotional arcs that keep readers hooked\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eShow-Don't-Tell Storytelling\u003c\/strong\u003e – Bring your scenes to life with cinematic techniques\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePlus 15 minutes of Q\u0026amp;A\u003c\/strong\u003e covering the discussed material and insights about the publishing and film \u0026amp; TV industries\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eWho Should Attend\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eFiction writers who have a completed manuscript, are currently drafting one, or are in the outlining\/brainstorming phase.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eAuthors dedicated to improving their craft and learning how to write fiction that is more inherently cinematic\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eCreatives who want to know what makes a novel prime for film \u0026amp; TV adaptation\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eScreenwriters considering writing their first novel\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eWhy Learn from Peter Malone Elliott?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePeter is a highly accomplished screenwriter and novelist who bridges both worlds with proven success:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eFilm \u0026amp; TV Expertise:\u003c\/strong\u003e Co-wrote and produced the feature film \u003cem\u003eWIRED SHUT\u003c\/em\u003e, nominated for three honors at the 2022 Leo Awards, including \"Best Screenwriting, Motion Picture\"\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003e$25,000 Grand Prize Winner\u003c\/strong\u003e of one of the film industry's most prestigious screenwriting contests\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eAward-Nominated Novelist:\u003c\/strong\u003e His debut novel \u003cem\u003eBLUE RIDGE\u003c\/em\u003e was nominated for \"Best Debut Mystery\" at the 2025 Lefty Awards\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eDevelopmental Editor:\u003c\/strong\u003e Peter specializes in working with authors whose books have high film \u0026amp; TV adaptation potential. Has worked on titles including UNRELENTING, A FRAGILE WOMAN, KILL FOR LOVE, THE WOMAN IN THE WAVES, and FLIGHTLESS.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eExperienced Instructor:\u003c\/strong\u003e Creative writing instructor at Drexel University and has co-taught successful WritingWorkshops.com seminars with his NY Times bestselling mother, L.M. Elliott\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eCourse Details\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eFormat:\u003c\/strong\u003e Live Zoom seminar\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eDuration:\u003c\/strong\u003e 1 hour (45 min instruction + 15 min Q\u0026amp;A)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eLevel:\u003c\/strong\u003e All levels welcome\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eBonus:\u003c\/strong\u003e Recording access included for all enrolled participants\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eWhat Students Are Saying\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e\"Wow, what a great investment this is in my manuscript! I had written for years and had a finished draft, but I knew it needed improvement. But I'd been staring at it so long, it was hard to see what needed to be changed. Enter: Peter. He provided specific feedback, great guidance, and whip-smart insights into what was and wasn't working in the story. Plus, he was super prompt and is great to work with! Now I can tackle my next revision with direction and confidence.\"\u003c\/em\u003e —Marie Parks, Author of \u003cem\u003eUNRELENTING\u003c\/em\u003e and \u003cem\u003eFLIGHTLESS\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e\"BLUE RIDGE is briskly plotted and smartly structured, moving back and forward in time without making a single confusing or gratuitous move... BLUE RIDGE will grip readers seeking a tense and evocative tale of big feelings, sparely expressed, and bigger sacrifices.\"\u003c\/em\u003e —Annie Berke, Washington City Paper\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eReady to make your fiction more cinematic and compelling? Join Peter for this intensive crash course and discover the secrets that make novels irresistible to both readers and Hollywood.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCan't Make It Live?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNo problem! The session will be recorded and available to watch after the seminar concludes.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"\" style=\"white-space: pre-wrap;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePAYMENT OPTIONS\u003c\/strong\u003e:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003eTuition is $75 USD. You can pay for the course in full\u003cspan style=\"box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003ci\u003eor\u003c\/i\u003e use Shop Pay or Affirm to pay over time with equal Monthly Payments. Both options are available at checkout.\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cul data-rte-list=\"default\"\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eInstructor: Peter Malone Elliott\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSunday, April 12th, 2026\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eClass will meet live via Zoom from 3PM - 4PM ET\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eA recording will be provided if you cannot attend live.\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e🌍 \u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eClass Times by Time Zone:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e Los Angeles (PST): 12:00 PM – 1:00 PM \/ Chicago (CST): 2:00 PM – 3:00 PM \/ New York (EST): 3:00 PM – 4:00 PM \/ London (GMT): 8:00 PM – 9:00 PM \/ Berlin (CET): 9:00 PM – 10:00 PM\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Writing Workshops Org","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":46878838128888,"sku":null,"price":75.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0287\/3917\/4532\/files\/PeterMaloneElliottHeadshot_89fd11b3-c550-41b5-8d55-2a3bba4adbd1.png?v=1758404113"},{"product_id":"how-to-be-honest-the-guide-to-getting-real-on-the-page-with-diana-spechler","title":"How to be Honest: The Guide to Getting Real on the Page Zoom Seminar with Diana Spechler on Tuesday, April 14th, 2026","description":"\u003cdiv id=\"block-0c22edf6c5f4ee9d89a4\" data-block-type=\"2\" class=\"sqs-block html-block sqs-block-html\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"sqs-block-content\" style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003e\n\u003ch2 style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTuesday, April 14th, 2026\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003ch2 style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eLive Seminar Via Zoom 7:00PM – 8:00PM Eastern\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAny questions about this class? Use the Chat Button (lower left) to talk with us. \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"\" style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003eTaught by \u003cem\u003eNew York Times\u003c\/em\u003e Columnist and Novelist Diana Spechler (read two stories in \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.nytimes.com\/2021\/04\/08\/opinion\/el-paso-art-murals.html\" target=\"_blank\"\u003e\u003cem\u003eThe New York Times Opinion\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e and a \u003cspan class=\"\"\u003ecover story in \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.nytimes.com\/2020\/04\/24\/opinion\/sunday\/covid-nude-selfies.html?fbclid=IwAR3Dxuy4Nd9BTF_IGQRiGyF9gas21G7x1N6n8Q_rqbJkoWSZiRFphB5H8-E\" target=\"_blank\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cem\u003eThe New York Times\u003c\/em\u003e Sunday Review\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e). You can also find Diana's work in \u003cem\u003eGQ, Esquire, Harper's, The Paris Review\u003c\/em\u003e, and elsewhere. She writes a Substack about travel writing called \u003ca data-linkindex=\"0\" data-auth=\"NotApplicable\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" href=\"https:\/\/dianaspechler.substack.com\/\" target=\"_blank\"\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e\u003ca rel=\"noopener\" title=\"Dispatches from the Road with Diana Spechler Substack\" href=\"https:\/\/dianaspechler.substack.com\/\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eDispatches From The Road\u003c\/a\u003e, and has taught a series of popular online workshops \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/writingworkshops.com\/collections\/writing-personal-essays-with-diana-spechler\" title=\"Writing Personal Essays with Instructor Diana Spechler\" rel=\"noopener\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eon writing personal essays\u003c\/a\u003e for us since 2018.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cbr\u003e\u003cem\u003eThis course is geared toward nonfiction writers, but fiction writers will also benefit. All writing levels welcome!\u003c\/em\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"sqs-block-content\"\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"sqs-block-content\"\u003eOn the page, few elements are more important than authenticity. Authenticity makes the writing intoxicating, and if it's missing, the reader can smell it.\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"sqs-block-content\"\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"sqs-block-content\"\u003eIn this seminar, we'll deconstruct authenticity. What is it? What does it look like in literature? How can we access it in ourselves and apply it to our own writing? This one-hour class will make your writing more honest.\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"sqs-block-content\"\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"sqs-block-content\"\u003e(Hint: That doesn't mean you have to blab all your secrets!)\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\n\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWriting Goals: \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003eIn this course, students will learn the elements of authenticity in writing and leave with the tools to make their own work more authentic.\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cbr\u003ePreparation and workload:\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003eJust show up. This class is for writers at all levels.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCan't Make It Live?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan\u003eNo problem! The session will be recorded and available to watch after the seminar concludes.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"sqs-block-content\"\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eSTUDENT TESTIMONIALS\u003c\/strong\u003e:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"\"\u003e\"\u003cem\u003eI just finished my first class, Online Personal Essay with Diana Spechler. I’m happy this introduced me to essays and she was a great instructor. I would take this class again in a heartbeat!\u003c\/em\u003e\" -former student\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"\"\u003e\"\u003cem\u003eThis class exceeded my expectations. I felt at ease writing about personal topics and especially enjoyed the community that Diana created\u003c\/em\u003e.\" -former student\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"\"\u003e\"\u003cem\u003eThis was the most engaging online class I've taken. Diana had the class provide narrative comments as well as mark-ups on our drafts. WOW! I got some really great feedback this way. She also was online commenting on our posts more than I have seen in other classes\u003c\/em\u003e.\" -former student\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"\"\u003e\"\u003cem\u003eI just finished Diana Spechler's Introduction to Personal Essay. There was so much for me to learn that I decided to take it again one month later! When I began, I had not thought about writing since high school (a long time ago.) This class was both an introduction and an immersion into a writing style that was deeper and more truthful. Diana's choices of essays for us to read and analyze, her responses to our responses, the prompts she offered, and the sense of community she engendered made the sessions both marvelously difficult and simply engaging. And so useful. I was able to find stories I forgot I had, and language to describe them, and a deeper more honest foray into writing. Now, I need to take some grammar and punctuation classes (thank you Diana) and will be back. I recommend this class highly. Just take it!\u003c\/em\u003e\" -former student\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\"\u003cem\u003eDiana's workshop was transformative—I've never felt more confident in sharing my personal stories.\u003c\/em\u003e\" -former student\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\"\u003cem\u003eTaking Diana's personal essay workshop was one of the best decisions I've made for my writing journey. The course material was rich and thought-provoking, and the feedback from Diana and my classmates was incredibly helpful. I learned how to navigate the complexities of writing about my own life with honesty and sensitivity. By the end of the six weeks, I had crafted an essay that I felt truly proud of and ready to share with the world.\u003c\/em\u003e\" -former student\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\"\u003cem\u003eI was nervous about writing personal essays, but Diana's guidance and feedback were invaluable. By the end of the course, I had a polished piece I was proud to share\u003c\/em\u003e.\" -former student\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\"\u003cem\u003eDiana Spechler's Introduction to Personal Essay Workshop profoundly impacted my writing. The weekly prompts and readings were both challenging and inspiring, pushing me to dig deeper into my own experiences. I left with not just one polished essay, but a newfound confidence in my ability to tell my story\u003c\/em\u003e.\" -former student\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"\"\u003e\"\u003cem\u003eI completed my first Writing Workshops class with Diana Spechler and it was actually my first writing class ever! It changed my view on writing\/my writing. Diana was such a positive force for authentically and constructively encouraging the writer in me. I am forever grateful\u003c\/em\u003e.\" Angie S.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"\"\u003e\"\u003cem\u003eThis class was incredibly supportive and informative and absolutely exceeded my expectations. The content and exercises were well structured, and Diana's feedback was encouraging but instructive. I found Diana's inline comments so valuable. I also found the topics exploring different themes and conversations surrounding them really helpful\u003c\/em\u003e.\" -Kelsie M.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"\"\u003e“\u003cem\u003eI cannot say enough about how much I enjoyed my online class through Writing Workshops with Diana Spechler. I was encouraged, challenged and had a blast; and my writing is finally getting the workshopping it needs. Thank you Diana for creating such an incredible experience! Will definitely be taking more classes ASAP\u003c\/em\u003e!” -Rebecca M.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"\"\u003e“\u003cem\u003eDiana’s personal essay workshop was a very good experience. It provided some good direction and structure for my writing, and that is exactly what I needed. I may want to repeat the course in the not too distant future in hopes of taking the next step with my personal essay writing\u003c\/em\u003e.” -Heidi N.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"\"\u003e\"\u003cem\u003eDiana's Personal Essay class was incredibly supportive and informative. The content and exercises were well structured, and Diana's feedback was encouraging but instructive. I found Diana's inline comments so valuable. I also found the topics exploring different themes and conversations surrounding them really helpful\u003c\/em\u003e.\" Kelsie M.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePAYMENT OPTIONS\u003c\/strong\u003e:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003eTuition is $99 USD. You can pay for the course in full\u003cspan style=\"box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003ci\u003eor\u003c\/i\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003euse Affirm to pay over time with equal Monthly Payments. Both options are available at checkout.\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cul data-rte-list=\"default\"\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eInstructor: Diana Spechler \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTuesday, April 14th, 2026\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eLive Seminar Via Zoom 7:00PM – 8:00PM Eastern\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Writing Workshops Org","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":46921415786744,"sku":null,"price":99.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0287\/3917\/4532\/products\/DianaSpechlerAdvanced.png?v=1622553493"},{"product_id":"funny-personal-essay-writing-workshop-elissa-bassist","title":"Writing Funny Personal Essays, a Zoom Seminar with Elissa Bassist on Sunday, August 9th, 2026","description":"\u003ch2\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSunday, August 9th, 2026\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eLive Seminar via Zoom from 2:30PM - 5:30PM EST \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eA recording will be provided if you cannot attend live.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003e🌍 \u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eClass Times by Time Zone: \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003eLos Angeles (PST): 11:30 AM – 2:30 PM \/ \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003eChicago (CST): 1:30 PM – 4:30 PM \/ \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003eNew York (EST): 2:30 PM – 5:30 PM \/ \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003eLondon (GMT): 7:30 PM – 10:30 PM \/ \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003eBerlin (CET): 8:30 PM – 11:30 PM\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAny questions about this class? Use the Chat Button to talk with us. \u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eElissa Bassist is the editor of the “Funny Women” column on \u003cem\u003eThe Rumpus\u003c\/em\u003e and the author of \u003ca title=\"Hysterical by Elissa Bassist\" href=\"https:\/\/bookshop.org\/p\/books\/hysterical-a-memoir-elissa-bassist\/18687565?gclid=Cj0KCQjwtsCgBhDEARIsAE7RYh3KOJnQB25_SDN0m2OftIJJSRbgZz2_nxE22qNpD8Vk1EbOCdskaG4aAiQDEALw_wcB\" target=\"_blank\"\u003e\u003cem\u003eHysterical\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e, a semi-finalist for the Thurber Prize for American Humor. As a founding contributor to \u003cem\u003eThe Rumpus\u003c\/em\u003e, Elissa has written cultural and personal criticism since the website launched in 2009. INSIDE JOKES, a humor writing craft book, co-written with Caitlin Kunkel, is forthcoming from Grand Central Publishing in 2026. Elissa teaches humor writing at The New School and elsewhere, and she is probably her therapist’s favorite. \u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"background-color: white;\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWho is this course for? \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003eThis course is for writers who want to be David Sedaris but tell their own stories. It's open to all levels.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat to expect: \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhy do you laugh when you read? Because you relate? Because you’re surprised? Because life is an absurd farce?\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn this mind-blowing seminar, we’ll gossip about the many ways to make readers laugh and how to turn an anecdote into an essay that’s funny and publishable. We’ll cover the mortification essay, the revelation essay, the “that one time…” essay, the funny op-ed, and the self-effacing essay.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eStudents will learn a repeatable drafting process to find topics, angles, and what’s unusual and universal in their lives to carve out their stories. Writers may come with an idea in mind or start from scratch. Our goal will be to go from topic to crappy first draft in one sitting or die trying.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat are the writing goals? \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn class we'll brainstorm topics, generate raw material, write scenes, rewrite those scenes, and figure out how it all comes together. Our goal will be to go from topic to crappy first draft in one sitting or die trying.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eReadings will include work from Samantha Irby, Melissa Broder, Jenny Lawson, Daniel Lavery, Jabeen Akhtar, R. Eric Thomas, and Michael Arceneaux.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePreparation and workload: \u003c\/strong\u003eRead (and love) \u003ca rel=\"noopener\" title=\"Hysterical: A Memoir by Elissa Bassist (Author)\" href=\"https:\/\/bookshop.org\/a\/18715\/9780306827372\" target=\"_blank\"\u003e\u003cem\u003eHysterical\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e (if you want). There will be handouts (to reference during classes) and brainstorming and writing exercises (to be done in class). Elissa will provide PDFs of funny nonfiction pieces. You’ll bring in one page of your own writing to revive it with everything you learn in class. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCan't Make It Live?\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003eNo problem! The session will be recorded and available to watch after the seminar concludes.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"sqs-block-content\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eCOURSE TAKEAWAYS:\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"sqs-block-content\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eWhat to look forward to: \u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eHilarious readings; in-class brainstorming; writing exercises; excessive handouts; and solicited and unsolicited advice.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eGuidance on coming up with topics to write about, raw material, and unique angles.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eDetailed explanation of what every funny personal essay needs to be publishable.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eInformation on what venues publish and pay for the funny personal essay.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eInstruction on how to step up your game and turn a personal essay into a funny one.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eHonest answers about drafting, revising, pitching, and publication.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"sqs-block-content\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTESTIMONIALS:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\"I loved this class. Elissa was an extremely generous teacher\/storyteller. I think listening to her talk about her experience\/struggles to get words on the page was the most valuable part. I was amazed with Elissa’s ability to focus and maintain passion and energy for 3 straight hours. I was completely engaged in her personal writing journey and was satisfied with spending 3 hours listening to her speak.\" -former student\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\"This was a fun class! I found Elissa's personal takes and experiences in both the process and in finding a home for her writing most valuable. The process seems much more manageable to me now, and I would take another class with Elissa.\" -former student\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\"I heard about WritingWorkshop.com via \u003cem\u003eHippocampus Magazine\u003c\/em\u003e. I'm so happy I found Elissa's class, which was filled with many small insights that added up to a lot. I left the class feeling inspired. Thank you.\" -former student\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\"Elissa's seminar exceeded my expectations! She provided real-world solutions for rejection and included so many thought-provoking prompts. This class was so rich with information it could have easily been a 6-week course.\"-former student\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\"This class was SO, SO GOOD!!!! By far, my favorite ever of the many many I have taken with Catapult, Grubstreet, Porch, CFF, and WritingWorkshops.com. Big compliments! Thank you!!! Learned a lot and was furiously taking down notes; what marvelous advice and stories you have. Can't wait to read HYSTERICAL and the books that will come after that.\" -former student\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"sqs-block-content\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003ePAYMENT OPTIONS\u003c\/strong\u003e: \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003eTuition is $99 USD. You can pay for the course in full\u003ci\u003e or\u003c\/i\u003e use Shop Pay or Affirm to pay over time with equal Monthly Payments. Both options are available at checkout.\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cul data-rte-list=\"default\"\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"\"\u003eSunday, August 9th, 2026\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"\"\u003eLive Seminar via Zoom from 2:30PM - 5:30PM EST\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eTuition is $99 USD.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Writing Workshops Org","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":47157709308152,"sku":null,"price":99.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0287\/3917\/4532\/files\/ElissaBassistHeadshot2025.png?v=1757622875"},{"product_id":"hot-takes-writing-workshop","title":"Opinion Writing: Hot Takes, Op-Eds, Persuasive Essays Zoom Seminar with Tawny Lara on Sunday, October 25th, 2026","description":"\u003ch2\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSunday, October 25th, 2026\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eLive Seminar Via Zoom 1:00PM – 3:00PM Eastern\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e🌍 \u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eClass Times by Time Zone: \u003c\/strong\u003eLos Angeles (PDT): 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM \/ Chicago (CDT): 12:00 PM – 2:00 PM \/ New York (EDT): 1:00 PM – 3:00 PM \/ London (GMT): 5:00 PM – 7:00 PM \/ Berlin (CET): 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAny questions about this class? Use the Chat Button to talk with us. \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe session will be recorded and available to watch after the seminar concludes.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eInstructor Tawny Lara is a journalist with a business degree who understands both sides of the creative life: we want to create cool shit, and we also want to make a living. She's the author of \u003ca rel=\"noopener\" title=\"Dry Humping  A Guide to Dating, Relating, and Hooking Up Without the Booze By Tawny Lara\" href=\"https:\/\/www.penguinrandomhouse.com\/books\/730665\/dry-humping-by-tawny-lara\/\" target=\"_blank\"\u003e\u003cem\u003eDry Humping: A Guide to Dating, Relating, and Hooking Up Without the Booze\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e and \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.penguinrandomhouse.com\/books\/750832\/the-sobriety-deck-by-tawny-lara-and-lisa-smith\/\" title=\"The Sobriety Deck Simple Practices for a Booze-Free Lifestyle  By Tawny Lara and Lisa Smith\" rel=\"noopener\" target=\"_blank\"\u003e\u003ci\u003eThe Sobriety Deck: Practical Practices for a Booze-Free Lifestyle\u003c\/i\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e, and co-founder of the vinegar-based botanical beverage (\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.drinkparentheses.com\/\" title=\"Parentheses Botanical Spirit\" rel=\"noopener\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eparentheses\u003c\/a\u003e). She's also an exhausted Capricorn who's obsessed with her dog, Stevie Nicks.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eHave something on your mind, but you can’t quite put it into words? Does something annoy you more than just a pet peeve? In the age of misinformation and #content, we need your nuanced ideas now more than ever. Inspired by the viral series, \u003ca rel=\"noopener\" title=\"Inspired by the viral series, Subway Takes, this seminar includes writing prompts that help you articulate your Hot Take\" href=\"https:\/\/www.instagram.com\/subwaytakes\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eSubway Takes\u003c\/a\u003e, t\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003ehis seminar includes writing prompts that help you articulate \u003ci\u003eyour\u003c\/i\u003e Hot Take, followed by pitching strategies to get your ideas published.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eTawny's Hot Takes include \u003ca rel=\"noopener\" title=\"https:\/\/tawnylara.substack.com\/p\/meritocracy-is-a-myth-indie-brands?r=3f4vk\u0026amp;utm_campaign=post\u0026amp;utm_medium=web\u0026amp;showWelcomeOnShare=false\u0026amp;triedRedirect=true\" href=\"https:\/\/b5bdc9b0.streaklinks.com\/CmdYcqanp_orrM9wrgscnrVs\/https%3A%2F%2Fopen.substack.com%2Fpub%2Ftawnylara%2Fp%2Fmeritocracy-is-a-myth-indie-brands%3Fr%3D3f4vk%26utm_campaign%3Dpost%26utm_medium%3Dweb%26showWelcomeOnShare%3Dfalse\" target=\"_blank\"\u003e\u003ci\u003eMeritocracy is a Myth\u003c\/i\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e, \u003c\/span\u003e\u003ca rel=\"noopener\" title=\"Non-Alcoholic Drinks Need More Honest Reviews and Less #sponcon\" href=\"https:\/\/b5bdc9b0.streaklinks.com\/CmdYcqaw8EJAbVMbjgFpKjWV\/https%3A%2F%2Fbottleraiders.com%2Fno-low-alcohol%2Fopinion-non-alc-needs-more-honest-reviews-and-less-sponcon%2F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003e\u003ci\u003eNon-Alcoholic Drinks Need More Honest Reviews and Less #sponcon\u003c\/i\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e\u003cspan\u003e, \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003eand \u003c\/span\u003e\u003ca title=\"You don't need liquid courage to have good sex\" href=\"https:\/\/b5bdc9b0.streaklinks.com\/CmdYcqa1tUjXu2CpzQcxlcSq\/https%3A%2F%2Fwww.self.com%2Fstory%2Fsober-sex-essay\"\u003e\u003ci\u003eYou don't need liquid courage to have good sex\u003c\/i\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e\u003cspan\u003e—\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003eshe even turned the latter into a \u003c\/span\u003e\u003ca rel=\"noopener\" title=\"Dry Humping by Tawny Lara\" href=\"https:\/\/b5bdc9b0.streaklinks.com\/CmdYcqea2g2uNcyT0Afsy-EI\/https%3A%2F%2Fwww.penguinrandomhouse.com%2Fbooks%2F730665%2Fdry-humping-by-tawny-lara%2F9781683693635%2F\" target=\"_blank\"\u003ebook\u003c\/a\u003e\u003cspan\u003e. She has also learned a great deal about pitching gatekeepers to get her stories published, despite ongoing rejection.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eTawny’s teaching approach combines tangible tips, actionable advice, and real-life experience. Whether you’re a professional author or you’re still trying to convince yourself that you’re a “real writer,” this workshop is for you.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eParticipants will emerge from this seminar with fresh ideas, insight into how polemic writing works, and clarity on the next step of their writing journey.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSEMINAR TAKEAWAYS:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\" role=\"presentation\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eJust Write: \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003eFollow Tawny’s strategic writing prompts designed to help you articulate some topics that have been itching the inside of your brain for way too long.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\" role=\"presentation\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eLearn to Pitch\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e: Tawny shares screenshots of her winning pitches that landed her national bylines. Then you’ll have time to write your own pitch and get feedback in class.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\" role=\"presentation\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eIgnore Impostor Syndrome\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e: This section is for the voice in your head that thinks this class isn’t for you because it’s for “real” writers. Hear Tawny’s moments of impostor syndrome and how she still pushes through them, one day at a time.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\" role=\"presentation\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eUse Your Voice\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e: Now that you’ve pushed past imposter syndrome, you can hone in on what makes your Hot Take truly unique. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWHO SHOULD ATTEND:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThis seminar welcomes a diverse audience, from seasoned writers seeking to refine their writing skills to curious beginners eager to embark on their writing journey. Regardless of your experience level, this seminar promises to equip you with the insights, tools, and inspiration needed to get back into your writing flow.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003eWith Tawny Lara's guidance, you'll learn to get your ideas out of your head and onto the page. Prepare to feel empowered, inspired, and fully equipped to tackle a blank page with confidence and enthusiasm.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCan't Make It Live?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan\u003eNo problem! The session will be recorded and available to watch after the seminar concludes.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTESTIMONIALS:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e“When it comes to non-fiction, a big part of an agent’s job is wrangling a book proposal together with their author. Digging into the why of the project, discussing platform, and the like. It only benefits you to be more prepared. The more you have in there, the better. When Tawny’s proposal arrived in my agent inbox and I opened it, it was like that scene in Pulp Fiction when they open the briefcase and all golden light shines out. It was perfect. And I called her the same day asking to work on the project. You’ll learn a lot from her, absolutely” -Eric Smith, author \u0026amp; Tawny’s agent\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e“The publishing world is a minefield, and Tawny is a Bloodhound. Over the past decade, she's learned how to navigate this clusterfuck of this industry, cutting through the BS, so you can actually get published and your voice heard.” -Zachary Zane, Author of \u003cem\u003eBoyslut, A Memoir and Manifesto\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e“Tawny is such an excellent resource for someone navigating publishing and proposals for the first time. I am a DIY-type who usually just uses Google to teach me everything, but having Tawny's help saved me weeks if not months of research and helped me feel extremely clear and prepared as I began the process. Very grateful for her expertise!” -Mariana Louis, archetypal tarotist\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\"Tawny Lara's class on writing non-fiction book proposals is a lighthouse for anyone eager to explore mental health topics with depth and empathy. Her expertise not only helps writers to craft impactful narratives but also to navigate the complexities of mental health with sensitivity and insight.\" - Sophie Saint Thomas, author of \u003cem\u003eReproductive Rites\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e“Tawny is not only an experienced journalist and writer, but she’s also a marketing wiz who can bring that extra special sauce to your book proposal. If you want to actually sell your book, there’s no one else that I’d rely on to teach me the 101.” - Irina Gonzalez, editor, journalist, and author of the\u003cem\u003e Raising Gen Alpha\u003c\/em\u003e newsletter\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\"Tawny is a master when it comes to marketing yourself as a writer. She will help you focus your vision and tap into insider knowledge of the publishing world.\" -Gemma Hartley, author of \u003cem\u003eFed Up: Emotional Labor, Women, and the Way Forward \u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e“Tawny will help you sell your book proposal. She knows the game, and she will teach you how to play it.” -Paulina Pinsky, co-author of\u003cem\u003e It Doesn’t Have to be Awkward\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\"Tawny, I wanted to take a moment to thank you for what was a chock-full-of-info book proposal seminar yesterday. I am so glad I came; it was worth my time in all respects! Thank you for being so generous and forthcoming and giving us so much knowledge about the book proposal process in such a clear and seamless way. I feel like every minute had something valuable to offer. My kind of seminar!\" -former student\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\"This seminar got me excited to explore and think about how I might take what I already do and turn it into a card deck and if so...what would that look like. Tawny was knowledgeable and open and kept on time with things, which I always appreciate. It was well worth the investment.\" -former student.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\"This seminar exceeded my expectations! It was super helpful and informative about an emerging area of publishing. The most helpful part: Tawny's slide deck; the comparison between self-publishing and traditional; talking about how publishers have different imprints for paper products. Thank you!\" -former student\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePAYMENT OPTIONS\u003c\/strong\u003e:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\n\u003cbr\u003eTuition is $99 USD. You can pay for the course in full\u003cspan style=\"box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003ci\u003eor\u003c\/i\u003e use Affirm to pay over time with equal Monthly Payments. Both options are available at checkout.\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cul data-rte-list=\"default\"\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eInstructor: Tawny Lara\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSunday, October 25th, 2026\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eLive Seminar Via Zoom 1:00PM – 3:00PM Eastern\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eTuition is $99 USD\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eCan't Make It Live? No problem! The session will be recorded and available to watch after the seminar concludes.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e","brand":"Writing Workshops Org","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":47242685022456,"sku":null,"price":99.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0287\/3917\/4532\/files\/Tawny_Lara_Headshot_5_6b6d9b3b-0112-4e8d-993c-9542c016dce4.png?v=1761327740"},{"product_id":"nature-writing-workshop-earth-day-2026","title":"Nature Writing Workshop: Craft Personal Essays for Earth Day Zoom Seminar with Lynne Golodner on Wednesday, April 22nd, 2026","description":"\u003cdiv id=\"block-62b681ac90b953325c64\" data-block-type=\"2\" class=\"sqs-block html-block sqs-block-html\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"sqs-block-content\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"sqs-block-content\"\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWednesday, April 22nd, 2026\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eLive Seminar Via Zoom 6:00PM – 8:30PM Eastern\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAny questions about this class? Use the Chat Button to talk with us.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe session will be recorded and available to watch after the seminar concludes.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eInstructor Lynne Golodner is the author of twelve books and thousands of articles, and a marketing entrepreneur, writing coach, and host of the Make Meaning Podcast. After working as a journalist in New York and Washington, D.C., Lynne returned to Detroit. She helps authors create writing careers, book marketing strategies and finish book projects. In 2023, Lynne founded \u003c\/span\u003e\u003ca rel=\"noopener\" title=\"Scotia Road Books\" href=\"https:\/\/scotiaroadbooks.com\/\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eScotia Road Books\u003c\/a\u003e\u003cspan\u003e, an independent publishing imprint for women over 40. Lynne’s writing has appeared in \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003e45\u003csup\u003eth\u003c\/sup\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eParallel, Moment Magazine, Great Lakes Review, Saveur\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cspan\u003e, the \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003eChicago Tribune\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cspan\u003e, \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003eBetter Homes and Gardens\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cspan\u003e, \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003eMidwest Living\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cspan\u003e, the \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003eDetroit Free Press\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cspan\u003e, \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003ePorridge Magazine\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cspan\u003e, the \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003eJewish Literary Journal\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cspan\u003e, \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003eThe Good Life Review\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cspan\u003e, \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003eHadassah Magazine\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cspan\u003e, \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003eThe Forward\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cspan\u003e, \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003eValiant Scribe\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cspan\u003e, \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003eStory Unlikely\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cspan\u003e, \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003eThe Dillydoun Review\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cspan\u003e, \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003eQuibbleLit, bioStories\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cspan\u003e and \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003eYourTango\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cspan\u003e, among many more publications. Plus, one of her essays was a finalist in the Annie Dillard Creative Nonfiction contest at \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003eBellingham Review\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cspan\u003e.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cbr\u003eSometimes the best stories are right outside your door. Like, literally.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn this three-hour webinar, taught by celebrated author of 12 award-winning books and nature writing expert Lynne Golodner, you’ll learn how to find inspiration from the natural world. You’ll sharpen your observational skills, learn to find beauty and story in the environment, and find new ways for deepening your stories and essays by adding elements from the natural world into your writing.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis webinar is for all writers, regardless of genre or interest in the natural world. Whether your closest encounter with nature is finding a weed growing in the crack of city pavement or an arduous climb to a mountaintop, this course will sharpen your noticing skills and add detail and meaning to your writing. You’ll see how to find inspiration anywhere, especially in the simplest settings. You’ll learn how to layer meaning into your writing, and you’ll find that subject matter is all around you, all the time!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis class will help you open your eyes and awaken your creativity to the myriad stories just waiting for you wherever you go.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCan't Make It Live?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNo problem! The session will be recorded and available to watch after the seminar concludes.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCOURSE TAKEAWAYS:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eLearn how to find inspiration from the natural world, creating ready writing prompts wherever you find yourself.\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eConfront the stories that dwell in nature and learn how to weave them into the stories you write.\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eBuild courage and confidence to go beyond your comfort zone and find inspiration in unlikely places.\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eHarness memory, place, experience and relationship to create compelling writing.\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eLearn how to identify meaning, flow and connection in the natural world, which you can emulate on the page.\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eRead celebrated nature writers to understand how the natural world can evoke emotion and connect with readers.\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eSTUDENTS LOVE LYNNE\u003c\/strong\u003e:\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"sqs-block-content\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cspan class=\"review-full-text\" tabindex=\"-1\"\u003e\"Lynne holds the keys to the poetry queendom.  She is clear, kind, and sparks ideas like crazy.  I appreciate her best of all the poetry teachers I have had, including those at NYU where I majored in Poetry!\" -Laurie M.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cspan class=\"review-full-text\" tabindex=\"-1\"\u003e\"I really enjoyed my first Writing Workshop! I was surprised to find a class so perfectly geared toward what I needed and my skill and comfort level. I had no idea though of the inspiration, community, and support I would get from taking it. Lynne created an incredibly safe space for the class to come together, feel inspired, learn about ourselves and the craft of writing, and most importantly, to get us writing. I enjoyed the readings, and haven't felt this inspired to write in a long time. Well worth the cost and the risk of trying something new.\" -Ali S.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e“This class has become the best part of my week.” -Olivet J.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\"I have loved being with you and the other students, and the assignments have been great. You are a fabulous teacher.” -R.C.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\"This was the finest writing\/self-care combo I've done so far and I am truly grateful. I felt freed up; there was a flow that truly excited me and inspired me to continue the writing. You are a terrific teacher.” -Beth L.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\"If you ever wanted motivation and input on your writing, this is a great workshop! Has helped me tremendously! I never considered myself as a writer but maybe just maybe I am becoming one!\" -Beth M.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e“Lynne’s writing workshop develops a writers resilience and creativity. Lynne challenged me to go deeper in my writing - to think beyond the words to the roots of experience. My writing is becoming stronger and more purposeful, and I have a renewed sense of confidence as I write my first book.\" -AB\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\"The writers workshop helped me explore a part of my personality and interests that I hadn't yet allowed myself to dig into. I feel more connected to who I am as a writer as well as all the other wonderful writers who participated. One of my favorite aspects of the workshop was being in a safe space, sharing a variety of pieces with people of different backgrounds and perspectives. Not only have I learned more about myself and others, but I have been exposed to so many new genres and writing topics. Thanks, Lynne!\" -JR\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\"This was my first experience with a writing workshop and writing all together. I had such a wonderful experience that I signed up for Lynne's next workshop. I did not expect to come away with so much confidence! Lynne and the group were nurturing and wonderful. This workshop is for all levels of writers\" -SA\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\"Lynne is changing my life. She keeps me accountable to my vision, and her confidence in me makes a huge difference.\" -Noreen E.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\"Thank you so much for the opportunity to be surrounded by such inspiring women with exquisite instruction.” -Emily P.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e“Thank you for being so encouraging.” -Betsy C.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\"Lynne's workshop has provided me with the opportunity to receive quality feedback and editorial expertise in response to the work that I have chosen to share with this great group of ladies\" -MN\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"sqs-block-content\"\u003e\n\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cbr\u003ePAYMENT OPTIONS\u003c\/strong\u003e:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003eTuition is $99 USD. You can pay for the course in full \u003ci\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eor\u003c\/i\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003euse Affirm to pay over time with equal Monthly Payments. Both options are available at checkout.\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cul data-rte-list=\"default\"\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eInstructor: Lynne Golodner\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eWednesday, April 22nd, 2026\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eLive Seminar Via Zoom 6:00PM – 8:30PM Eastern\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eTuition is $99 USD\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eCan't Make It Live? No problem! The session will be recorded and available to watch after the seminar concludes.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Writing Workshops Org","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":47243805360376,"sku":null,"price":99.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0287\/3917\/4532\/files\/Lynne_Golodner_Headshot_2.png?v=1720616588"},{"product_id":"story-structure-fiction-nonfiction-writing-workshop-online","title":"Story Structure Simplified: How to Shape Your Narrative for Maximum Effect with Debra Jo Immergut (Zoom) on Saturday, August 1st, 2026","description":"\u003ch2\u003eSaturday, August 1st, 2026\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eClass will meet once via Zoom on Saturday, 3:00 PM - 5:00 PM Eastern\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e🌍 \u003cem\u003eClass Times by Time Zone: \u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cem\u003eLos Angeles (PDT): 12:00 PM – 2:00 PM \/ Chicago (CDT): 2:00 PM – 4:00 PM \/ New York (EDT): 3:00 PM – 5:00 PM \/ London (BST): 8:00 PM – 10:00 PM \/ Berlin (CEST): 9:00 PM – 11:00 PM\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAny questions about this class? Use the Chat Button to talk with us. \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eInstructor Debra Jo Immergut is the author of the novels \u003cem\u003eYou Again\u003c\/em\u003e, named a \u003cem\u003eNew York Times\u003c\/em\u003e Best of the Year and shortlisted for the 2021 Gotham Book Prize, and \u003cem\u003eThe Captives\u003c\/em\u003e, a 2019 Edgar Award finalist and published in over a dozen countries. She has also published a collection of short fiction, \u003cem\u003ePrivate Property\u003c\/em\u003e. Her essays and stories have appeared in \u003cem\u003eAmerican Short Fiction, Narrative, The New York Times, PANK, Hobart\u003c\/em\u003e, and elsewhere. A recipient of Michener and MacDowell fellowships, she has an MFA from the Iowa Writers’ Workshop. Debra has extensive experience teaching creative writing courses in undergraduate, graduate, and continuing education programs. She lives in western Massachusetts.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWho is this class for?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis online writing workshop is for fiction and nonfiction writers who want to learn key strategies for building stories with strong structures and narrative momentum. Open to all levels.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat to expect:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHow do you turn that amazing idea into a fully formed story that moves in believable and surprising ways from beginning to end? In this 2-hour intensive, you'll explore how successful stories engage our curiosity, build momentum, and leave us feeling changed.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eLed by Edgar-nominated novelist Debra Jo Immergut, this online writing class combines illustrated lecture, group discussion, and generative brainstorming. You'll examine examples from masters including Shirley Jackson, Jesmyn Ward, George Saunders, and F. Scott Fitzgerald. Together, you'll break down these stories' magical effects into actionable strategies for creating shapely, satisfying narratives. The instructor will provide input on story ideas and structural strategies throughout the session.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat are the writing goals?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWriters of fiction or nonfiction at all levels will exit this creative writing workshop with a set of practical tools for structuring current and future work. You'll gain concrete strategies you can apply immediately to your own writing projects.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCOURSE OUTLINE\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePart 1: Yearnings\u003c\/strong\u003e — Understanding character desires and their role in story structure\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePart 2: Struggle\u003c\/strong\u003e — Building tension and conflict that propels your narrative forward\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePart 3: Change\u003c\/strong\u003e — Crafting meaningful transformation and development\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePart 4: Endings \u003c\/strong\u003e— Creating satisfying conclusions that resonate with readers\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCOURSE TAKEAWAYS:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDefine the drivers of the story: \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003egain a clear understanding of your characters' desires and how they influence story structure\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eRethink classic story shapes: \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003ego beyond the 3-act structure and other familiar approaches to discover the unique armature that will best support the story you want to tell\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePractice ways to boost \"page-turn-ability\": \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003eget three foolproof tactics for writing scenes that increase momentum and feel logical yet surprising\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eA practical toolkit \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003efor structuring current and future fiction or nonfiction projects\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTESTIMONIALS:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDebra is not only a gifted writer, but she is a gifted teacher of writing. She meets writers where they are and gently takes them to the next level, with insightful feedback, warmth, and good humor. — former student\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDebra has a magical way of fostering rigor, curiosity, and generosity, and my work has grown immensely since the start of the course. — former student\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDebra’s laserlike comments and brilliant suggestions have kept me going this fall and winter. I really can’t recommend this experience enough. — former student\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eI had a wonderful time in Debra’s workshop. A few things stand out: Debra’s warm, welcoming manner and her care in assembling a group of bright, engaged writers. She helped me develop a non-punitive plan — “a roadmap, not a train schedule” — toward completing the first draft of my novel, which has resulted in fruitful writing months. — former student\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eI made so many notes throughout the course about how I might use these strategies in my work. I want to map out the existing structure of the stories I'm revising to help me see what patterns and rhythms emerge and how I can work to complete them in a satisfying and resonant way. I'm feeling excited about completing an unfinished story and revising the two that I'm trying to get ready to send out into the world. Thank you for pointing out a few mechanisms to try! — former student\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eGreat balance of instruction and writing time. Loved it, wouldn’t change a thing! Appreciated the instructor’s thoughtfulness and engagement. I’m very new to writing and found the content very helpful and accessible. — former student\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe content was fabulous; the examples were so eye-opening. It really is the best workshop I've taken in the last year. — former student\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"\" style=\"white-space: pre-wrap;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePAYMENT OPTIONS\u003c\/strong\u003e:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003eTuition is $99 USD. You can pay for the course in full\u003cspan style=\"box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003ci\u003eor\u003c\/i\u003e use Shop Pay or Affirm to pay over time with equal Monthly Payments. Both options are available at checkout.\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cul data-rte-list=\"default\"\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eInstructor: Debra Jo Immergut\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eBegins Saturday, August 1st, 2026\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eClass will meet once via Zoom on Saturday, 3:00 PM - 5:00 PM EST\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e","brand":"Writing Workshops Org","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":47597646381304,"sku":null,"price":99.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0287\/3917\/4532\/files\/DebraJoImmergutHeadshot2025_1124de07-cd0d-4698-8c71-17423d067cb0.png?v=1755207161"},{"product_id":"poetic-punctuation-poetry-writing-workshop-online","title":"The Art of Poetic Punctuation Poetry Seminar with John Sibley Williams on Saturday, April 4th, 2026","description":"\u003ch2\u003eSaturday, April 4th, 2026\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eClass will meet once via Zoom on Saturday, 2:00 PM – 4:30 PM EST\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e🌍 \u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eClass Times by Time Zone: \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003eLos Angeles (PST): 11:00 AM – 1:30 PM \/ Chicago (CST): 1:00 PM – 3:30 PM \/ New York (EST): 2:00 PM – 4:30 PM \/ London (GMT): 7:00 PM – 9:30 PM \/ Berlin (CET): 8:00 PM – 10:30 PM\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAny questions about this class? Use the Chat Button to talk with us. \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe session will be recorded and available to watch after the seminar concludes.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eInstructor Bio\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eInstructor John Sibley Williams is the author of nine poetry collections, including \u003cem\u003eScale Model of a Country at Dawn\u003c\/em\u003e (Cider Press Review Poetry Award), \u003cem\u003eThe Drowning House\u003c\/em\u003e (Elixir Press Poetry Award), \u003cem\u003eAs One Fire Consumes Another\u003c\/em\u003e (Orison Poetry Prize), \u003cem\u003eSkin Memory\u003c\/em\u003e (Backwaters Prize, University of Nebraska Press), \u003cem\u003eskycrape\u003c\/em\u003e (WaterSedge Poetry Chapbook Contest), and \u003cem\u003eSummon\u003c\/em\u003e (JuxtaProse Chapbook Prize). His book S\u003cem\u003eky Burial: New \u0026amp; Selected Poems\u003c\/em\u003e is forthcoming in translation from the Portuguese press do lado esquerdo. A thirty-five-time Pushcart nominee, John serves as editor of \u003cem\u003eThe Inflectionist Review and \u003c\/em\u003ePoetry Editor at Kelson Books. Previous publishing credits include \u003cem\u003eBest American Poetry, Yale Review, Verse Daily, North American Review, Prairie Schooner, \u003c\/em\u003eand\u003cem\u003e TriQuarterly\u003c\/em\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-normal leading-[1.7]\"\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWho is this class for?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-normal leading-[1.7]\"\u003eThis online poetry workshop is for poets interested in expanding their knowledge and use of unique punctuation to sharpen and enhance their work. Open to all levels, from emerging writers to experienced poets seeking to refine their craft.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-normal leading-[1.7]\"\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat to expect:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-normal leading-[1.7]\"\u003eAn oft misunderstood yet absolutely essential element of all poetry, punctuation has the capacity to entirely change the way a poem is meant to be read, visualized, and interpreted. In this intensive one-day online writing workshop, you will explore the power, tension, and surprise that the right punctuation can create in a poem—from slashes and colons to em-dashes and no punctuation at all.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-normal leading-[1.7]\"\u003eYou will study diverse works that successfully employ commanding punctuation to subtly and boldly experiment with language and meaning, including poems by Emily Dickinson, Dana Levin, Carl Phillips, Franny Choi, Frank Bidart, Natalie Diaz, Philip Metres, and many others. This intimate poetry workshop will include lessons, analysis of well-known poems, in-class activities and writing, and sharing drafts with the class.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-normal leading-[1.7]\"\u003eThis creative writing course provides a unique opportunity to examine how small marks on the page can dramatically alter rhythm, pacing, and meaning in your poetry.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-normal leading-[1.7]\"\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat are the writing goals?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-normal leading-[1.7]\"\u003eIn this course, students will experiment with poetic punctuation on their own previously written poems. Writers are encouraged to bring drafts to apply techniques learned during the workshop. The session includes nearly a dozen prompts and writing activities designed to help poets explore various punctuation approaches.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-normal leading-[1.7]\"\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eReadings\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-normal leading-[1.7]\"\u003eA workbook will be provided. No outside reading is required. Bonus sample poems will be included for future inspiration.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-normal leading-[1.7]\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCOURSE OUTLINE\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-normal leading-[1.7]\"\u003eSession: The Art of Poetic Punctuation (2.5 hours)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul class=\"[li_\u0026amp;]:mb-0 [li_\u0026amp;]:mt-1.5 [li_\u0026amp;]:gap-1.5 [\u0026amp;:not(:last-child)_ul]:pb-1 [\u0026amp;:not(:last-child)_ol]:pb-1 list-disc flex flex-col gap-2 pl-8 mb-3\"\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"whitespace-normal break-words pl-2\"\u003eStudy diverse poetry that successfully employs commanding punctuation\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"whitespace-normal break-words pl-2\"\u003eLearn and practice how different punctuation options impact readability and poetic flow\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"whitespace-normal break-words pl-2\"\u003eLearn and practice how to experiment with multiple punctuation styles, often in the same poem, sparking new meanings\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"whitespace-normal break-words pl-2\"\u003eLearn and practice how to employ em dashes, slashes, colons, no punctuation at all, and other unique styles\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"whitespace-normal break-words pl-2\"\u003ePlenty of time to experiment with all punctuation forms\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"whitespace-normal break-words pl-2\"\u003eNearly a dozen prompts and writing activities\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"whitespace-normal break-words pl-2\"\u003eActive discussion of sample poems from diverse contemporary poets\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"whitespace-normal break-words pl-2\"\u003eA chance to more intimately engage with a small, focused writing community\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-normal leading-[1.7]\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCOURSE TAKEAWAYS:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul class=\"[li_\u0026amp;]:mb-0 [li_\u0026amp;]:mt-1.5 [li_\u0026amp;]:gap-1.5 [\u0026amp;:not(:last-child)_ul]:pb-1 [\u0026amp;:not(:last-child)_ol]:pb-1 list-disc flex flex-col gap-2 pl-8 mb-3\"\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"whitespace-normal break-words pl-2\"\u003eStudy diverse poetry that successfully employs commanding punctuation\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"whitespace-normal break-words pl-2\"\u003eLearn how different punctuation options impact readability and poetic flow\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"whitespace-normal break-words pl-2\"\u003ePractice experimenting with multiple punctuation styles, often in the same poem, sparking new meanings\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"whitespace-normal break-words pl-2\"\u003eMaster the use of em dashes, slashes, colons, no punctuation at all, and other unique styles\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"whitespace-normal break-words pl-2\"\u003eGain nearly a dozen prompts and writing activities to continue your practice\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"whitespace-normal break-words pl-2\"\u003eReceive bonus sample poems for future inspiration\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTESTIMONIALS:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e“I feel so grateful to John for keeping his top-notch editing\/critique and workshop rates quite affordable because it’s allowed me to make such remarkable improvements over just the last year. One major breakthrough I’ve made under his tutelage is to more keenly and instinctively write from the basis of image as opposed to the abstract questionings I would previously use to launch my poetic explorations. John’s feedback often includes suggestions for mini-exercises to help hone my weaker grasp on certain elements of craft, and his vast, wide-ranging knowledge of (and awe-inspiring passion for) all things poetry-related always ensured that there was never a shortage of new suggestions or approaches to try. John has that rare, all-inclusive teaching talent for being able to show not only the what and the why, but mostly importantly, the how. I can’t thank John enough for all his generosity with his skills and expertise. ” — Abigail Licad\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e“Over the past couple of years working together, I’ve found John Sibley Williams to be a careful reader\/editor who is willing to push me out of longstanding habits. His critiques are straightforward, and his suggestions are clear and thought-provoking. John does not hesitate to push back strongly on pieces which are skeletal or merely musings without a center. That said he is also honest about his personal preferences. This provides room for my own instincts while alerting me to various untethered spots in the poems. I’m so grateful for John’s guidance which has deepened my thinking around process and craft.” — Greta Nintzel\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e“John is an exceptional teacher, poet, and editor. He expresses genuine interest in my poetry and progress as a poet, offering honest, insightful critiques and resources. I have taken his inspiring, generative workshops and received detailed feedback on individual poems as well as a thorough critique of a full-length manuscript. More than anything, John helps me deepen my understanding of my own aesthetic and draws out my poetic voice more fully.” — Sandra Fees\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e“I call John Sibley Williams trusted friend and reader now. When I shared my most recent manuscript with him, his responses were extremely thorough and sensitive. John deeply respected my poems and my intent, even when he had thoughtful and honest suggestions to offer. He was always cognizant of his approach versus my own, a rare gift.” — Amy Small-McKinney\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e“I have never received such detailed and genuine feedback of my poetry. Prompt in his turnaround and constructive at every level, John’s edits not only showed me a pathway out from the muddle I’d found myself in, but also key tactics to use in making myself a better poet. With a keen perception for theme and style, he understood completely the purpose and intended message of my manuscript. His feedback that was both holistic with a general overview and specific with line edits where needed. I will return to his editing services time and time again.” — Daniel Lassell\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e“I had an exceptionally positive experience working with John. He is a careful, thoughtful reader who can see what’s working well in a poem, and what needs a new approach. In my case, I had a few long poems that I could never seem to whip into shape. He helped me find the form that worked best for my material, and to find the sweet spot between providing enough information to a reader to follow along and maintaining the mystery in a poem that a reader wants to discover for themselves.” — Maximilian Heinegg\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e“Working with John Sibley Williams was a phenomenal experience that far exceeded my expectations. He provided nuanced readings of each one of my poems and attended to the larger themes in my collection. A generous editor, he saw what each poem was doing (or tried to do), then pinpointed ways to make it stronger. Through discerning and exacting feedback, he is also deeply respectful. His aesthetic range facilitates incisive feedback about how to maximize each poem’s effect on a potential reader. He also provided comments on my collection as a whole, including the sequencing of poems and the arc of the manuscript. In working with John, I learned so much about myself as a poet, and his feedback made me feel invigorated and ready to revise. Without a doubt, John is now one of my most important readers. I’ll definitely be sending him more work in the future!” — Shannon Winston\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e“For the price of a weekend writing workshop John provided personal feedback on my first collection of poems. He brought his experience, skill, and attention to each line. He helped me clarify what was working and what needed to be reworked, or cut, both on a particular and large scale. It was exactly what the book needed and well worth the price. His suggestions were insightful and improved the individual poems which made the whole collection feel ready! I highly recommend his editorial service to anyone who is preparing a manuscript.” — Twila Newey\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e“I met John at a time I was seeking to re-energize my poetry writing after a long hiatus. I started my collaboration with John by sending him 4 poems for his review—some new, some stuck in limbo for many years. I have found John’s review and commentary on my work to be very helpful, encouraging, and honest. He provides both big picture and detailed observations and, while my style is much different from his, I feel John respects and hears my voice. I look forward to continuing my work with him.” — Connie Soper\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e“I enjoyed the process and appreciate John’s careful eye. I really needed an objective viewpoint, which others hadn’t given me. John provided detailed responses and thorough line edits. He also has a great “bedside” manner, meaning that I asked for hard criticism and the truth and he provided those while being eager and encouraging, hard-nosed and exacting. I really appreciate this experience and want more of it.” — David Lohrey\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e“I worked with John Sibley Williams on two batches of poems and found his critique to be invaluable in my revision process. He is a very careful and thoughtful reader. He provided thorough and detailed responses to the poems as well as an overview response for each poem. He is able to critique work that is outside of his own aesthetic and his critique is offered in the spirit of making better poems. I highly recommend his services.” — Feral Willcox\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"\" style=\"white-space: pre-wrap;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePAYMENT OPTIONS\u003c\/strong\u003e:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003eYou can pay for the course in full\u003cspan style=\"box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003ci\u003eor\u003c\/i\u003e use Shop Pay or Affirm to pay over time with equal Monthly Payments. Both options are available at checkout.\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cul data-rte-list=\"default\"\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eInstructor: John Sibley Williams\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eBegins Saturday, April 4, 2026\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eClass will meet once via Zoom on Saturday, 2:00 PM – 4:30 PM EST\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eTuition is $99 USD.\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e🌍 \u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eClass Times by Time Zone: \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003eLos Angeles (PST): 11:00 AM – 1:30 PM \/ Chicago (CST): 1:00 PM – 3:30 PM \/ New York (EST): 2:00 PM – 4:30 PM \/ London (GMT): 7:00 PM – 9:30 PM \/ Berlin (CET): 8:00 PM – 10:30 PM\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Writing Workshops Org","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":47635444662520,"sku":null,"price":99.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0287\/3917\/4532\/files\/JohnSibleyWilliamsHeadshot.png?v=1746829020"},{"product_id":"erasure-blackout-poetry-writing-workshop-online","title":"Resisting Context: Mastering Blackout, Erasure, and Redacted Poetry with John Sibley Williams on Monday, June 8th, 2026","description":"\u003ch2\u003eMonday, June 8th, 2026\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eClass will meet once via Zoom on Monday, 5:00–7:30 PM EST\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAny questions about this class? Use the Chat Button to talk with us. \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe session will be recorded and available to watch after the seminar concludes.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eInstructor Bio\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eInstructor John Sibley Williams is the author of nine poetry collections, including \u003cem\u003eScale Model of a Country at Dawn\u003c\/em\u003e (Cider Press Review Poetry Award), \u003cem\u003eThe Drowning House\u003c\/em\u003e (Elixir Press Poetry Award), \u003cem\u003eAs One Fire Consumes Another\u003c\/em\u003e (Orison Poetry Prize), \u003cem\u003eSkin Memory\u003c\/em\u003e (Backwaters Prize, University of Nebraska Press), \u003cem\u003eskycrape\u003c\/em\u003e (WaterSedge Poetry Chapbook Contest), and \u003cem\u003eSummon\u003c\/em\u003e (JuxtaProse Chapbook Prize). His book S\u003cem\u003eky Burial: New \u0026amp; Selected Poems\u003c\/em\u003e is forthcoming in translation from the Portuguese press do lado esquerdo. A thirty-five-time Pushcart nominee, John serves as editor of \u003cem\u003eThe Inflectionist Review and \u003c\/em\u003ePoetry Editor at Kelson Books. Previous publishing credits include \u003cem\u003eBest American Poetry, Yale Review, Verse Daily, North American Review, Prairie Schooner, \u003c\/em\u003eand\u003cem\u003e TriQuarterly\u003c\/em\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-normal leading-[1.7]\"\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWho is this class for?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-normal leading-[1.7]\"\u003eThis online poetry workshop is for poets interested in experimenting with erasure, blackout, and redacted \"found\" poetry. Writers of all levels are welcome, from those new to these experimental forms to experienced poets seeking fresh creative techniques.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-normal leading-[1.7]\"\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat to expect:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-normal leading-[1.7]\"\u003eErasure, blackout, and redacted poetry are each unique forms of \"found poetry\" wherein a poet takes an existing text and erases, blacks out, or otherwise obscures a large portion of the text, creating a wholly new work from what remains. Erasure poetry may be used as a means of collaboration, creating a new text from an old one and thereby starting a dialogue between the two, or as a means of confrontation, a challenge to a pre-existing text. Such hybrid poetics can be a powerful form of linguistic and political resistance.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-normal leading-[1.7]\"\u003eIn this hands-on, experimental, generative writing workshop, you will study these varied forms of found poetry, drawing inspiration from news stories, political documents, and canonical literature. The goal is to recontextualize what has come before so as to understand, challenge, reshape, and better engage with the world around us. This online writing class provides a supportive environment for poets to explore how others' words can spark new meanings and how to compose deeply personal poems without using any of your own language.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-normal leading-[1.7]\"\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat are the writing goals?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-normal leading-[1.7]\"\u003eIn this course, students will experiment with all three forms of found poetry—erasure, blackout, and redacted—drafting at least three new poems. A workbook will be provided; no outside reading is required.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-normal leading-[1.7]\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCOURSE OUTLINE\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-normal leading-[1.7]\"\u003eIn this hands-on, experimental, generative workshop, we will study these varied forms of found poetry, drawing inspiration from news stories, political documents, and canonical literature, in order to recontextualize what has come before so as to understand, challenge, reshape, and better engage with the world around us.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-normal leading-[1.7]\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCOURSE TAKEAWAYS:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul class=\"[li_\u0026amp;]:mb-0 [li_\u0026amp;]:mt-1.5 [li_\u0026amp;]:gap-1.5 [\u0026amp;:not(:last-child)_ul]:pb-1 [\u0026amp;:not(:last-child)_ol]:pb-1 list-disc flex flex-col gap-2 pl-8 mb-3\"\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"whitespace-normal break-words pl-2\"\u003eStudy diverse poetry that successfully employs found poetry techniques for great effect\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"whitespace-normal break-words pl-2\"\u003eLearn and practice how to select and interpret others' poetry and fiction, as well as newspaper articles and other media\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"whitespace-normal break-words pl-2\"\u003eLearn and practice how to use others' words to spark new meanings\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"whitespace-normal break-words pl-2\"\u003eLearn and practice how to compose your own personal poem without using any of your own language\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"whitespace-normal break-words pl-2\"\u003eDraft at least three new poems using erasure, blackout, and redacted techniques\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-normal leading-[1.7]\"\u003e\u003cstrong style=\"font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, 'San Francisco', 'Segoe UI', Roboto, 'Helvetica Neue', sans-serif; font-size: 0.875rem;\"\u003eTESTIMONIALS:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e“I feel so grateful to John for keeping his top-notch editing\/critique and workshop rates quite affordable because it’s allowed me to make such remarkable improvements over just the last year. One major breakthrough I’ve made under his tutelage is to more keenly and instinctively write from the basis of image as opposed to the abstract questionings I would previously use to launch my poetic explorations. John’s feedback often includes suggestions for mini-exercises to help hone my weaker grasp on certain elements of craft, and his vast, wide-ranging knowledge of (and awe-inspiring passion for) all things poetry-related always ensured that there was never a shortage of new suggestions or approaches to try. John has that rare, all-inclusive teaching talent for being able to show not only the what and the why, but mostly importantly, the how. I can’t thank John enough for all his generosity with his skills and expertise. ” — Abigail Licad\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e“Over the past couple of years working together, I’ve found John Sibley Williams to be a careful reader\/editor who is willing to push me out of longstanding habits. His critiques are straightforward, and his suggestions are clear and thought-provoking. John does not hesitate to push back strongly on pieces which are skeletal or merely musings without a center. That said he is also honest about his personal preferences. This provides room for my own instincts while alerting me to various untethered spots in the poems. I’m so grateful for John’s guidance which has deepened my thinking around process and craft.” — Greta Nintzel\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e“John is an exceptional teacher, poet, and editor. He expresses genuine interest in my poetry and progress as a poet, offering honest, insightful critiques and resources. I have taken his inspiring, generative workshops and received detailed feedback on individual poems as well as a thorough critique of a full-length manuscript. More than anything, John helps me deepen my understanding of my own aesthetic and draws out my poetic voice more fully.” — Sandra Fees\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e“I call John Sibley Williams trusted friend and reader now. When I shared my most recent manuscript with him, his responses were extremely thorough and sensitive. John deeply respected my poems and my intent, even when he had thoughtful and honest suggestions to offer. He was always cognizant of his approach versus my own, a rare gift.” — Amy Small-McKinney\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e“I have never received such detailed and genuine feedback of my poetry. Prompt in his turnaround and constructive at every level, John’s edits not only showed me a pathway out from the muddle I’d found myself in, but also key tactics to use in making myself a better poet. With a keen perception for theme and style, he understood completely the purpose and intended message of my manuscript. His feedback that was both holistic with a general overview and specific with line edits where needed. I will return to his editing services time and time again.” — Daniel Lassell\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e“I had an exceptionally positive experience working with John. He is a careful, thoughtful reader who can see what’s working well in a poem, and what needs a new approach. In my case, I had a few long poems that I could never seem to whip into shape. He helped me find the form that worked best for my material, and to find the sweet spot between providing enough information to a reader to follow along and maintaining the mystery in a poem that a reader wants to discover for themselves.” — Maximilian Heinegg\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e“Working with John Sibley Williams was a phenomenal experience that far exceeded my expectations. He provided nuanced readings of each one of my poems and attended to the larger themes in my collection. A generous editor, he saw what each poem was doing (or tried to do), then pinpointed ways to make it stronger. Through discerning and exacting feedback, he is also deeply respectful. His aesthetic range facilitates incisive feedback about how to maximize each poem’s effect on a potential reader. He also provided comments on my collection as a whole, including the sequencing of poems and the arc of the manuscript. In working with John, I learned so much about myself as a poet, and his feedback made me feel invigorated and ready to revise. Without a doubt, John is now one of my most important readers. I’ll definitely be sending him more work in the future!” — Shannon Winston\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e“For the price of a weekend writing workshop John provided personal feedback on my first collection of poems. He brought his experience, skill, and attention to each line. He helped me clarify what was working and what needed to be reworked, or cut, both on a particular and large scale. It was exactly what the book needed and well worth the price. His suggestions were insightful and improved the individual poems which made the whole collection feel ready! I highly recommend his editorial service to anyone who is preparing a manuscript.” — Twila Newey\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e“I met John at a time I was seeking to re-energize my poetry writing after a long hiatus. I started my collaboration with John by sending him 4 poems for his review—some new, some stuck in limbo for many years. I have found John’s review and commentary on my work to be very helpful, encouraging, and honest. He provides both big picture and detailed observations and, while my style is much different from his, I feel John respects and hears my voice. I look forward to continuing my work with him.” — Connie Soper\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e“I enjoyed the process and appreciate John’s careful eye. I really needed an objective viewpoint, which others hadn’t given me. John provided detailed responses and thorough line edits. He also has a great “bedside” manner, meaning that I asked for hard criticism and the truth and he provided those while being eager and encouraging, hard-nosed and exacting. I really appreciate this experience and want more of it.” — David Lohrey\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e“I worked with John Sibley Williams on two batches of poems and found his critique to be invaluable in my revision process. He is a very careful and thoughtful reader. He provided thorough and detailed responses to the poems as well as an overview response for each poem. He is able to critique work that is outside of his own aesthetic and his critique is offered in the spirit of making better poems. I highly recommend his services.” — Feral Willcox\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"white-space: pre-wrap;\" class=\"\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePAYMENT OPTIONS\u003c\/strong\u003e:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003eYou can pay for the course in full\u003cspan style=\"box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003ci\u003eor\u003c\/i\u003e use Shop Pay or Affirm to pay over time with equal Monthly Payments. Both options are available at checkout.\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cul data-rte-list=\"default\"\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eInstructor: John Sibley Williams\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eBegins Monday, June 8, 2026\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eClass will meet once via Zoom on Monday, 5:00–7:30 PM EST\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eTuition is $99 USD.\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e","brand":"Writing Workshops Org","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":47635457310968,"sku":null,"price":99.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0287\/3917\/4532\/files\/JohnSibleyWilliamsHeadshot.png?v=1746829020"},{"product_id":"praise-celebration-poetic-ode-poetry-writing-workshop-online","title":"Praise \u0026 Celebration Poetry Workshop: Mastering the Poetic Ode with John Sibley Williams on Saturday, September 19th, 2026","description":"\u003ch2\u003eSaturday, September 19th, 2026\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eClass will meet once via Zoom from 2:00 PM – 5:00 PM EST\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e🌍 \u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eClass Times by Time Zone\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e: Los Angeles (PST): 11:00 AM – 2:00 PM \/ Chicago (CST): 1:00 PM – 4:00 PM \/ New York (EST): 2:00 PM – 5:00 PM \/ London (GMT): 7:00 PM – 10:00 PM \/ Berlin (CET): 8:00 PM – 11:00 PM\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAny questions about this class? Use the Chat Button to talk with us. \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe session will be recorded and available to watch after the seminar concludes.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eInstructor Bio\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eInstructor John Sibley Williams is the author of nine poetry collections, including \u003cem\u003eScale Model of a Country at Dawn\u003c\/em\u003e (Cider Press Review Poetry Award), \u003cem\u003eThe Drowning House\u003c\/em\u003e (Elixir Press Poetry Award), \u003cem\u003eAs One Fire Consumes Another\u003c\/em\u003e (Orison Poetry Prize), \u003cem\u003eSkin Memory\u003c\/em\u003e (Backwaters Prize, University of Nebraska Press), \u003cem\u003eskycrape\u003c\/em\u003e (WaterSedge Poetry Chapbook Contest), and \u003cem\u003eSummon\u003c\/em\u003e (JuxtaProse Chapbook Prize). His book S\u003cem\u003eky Burial: New \u0026amp; Selected Poems\u003c\/em\u003e is forthcoming in translation from the Portuguese press do lado esquerdo. A thirty-five-time Pushcart nominee, John serves as editor of \u003cem\u003eThe Inflectionist Review and \u003c\/em\u003ePoetry Editor at Kelson Books. Previous publishing credits include \u003cem\u003eBest American Poetry, Yale Review, Verse Daily, North American Review, Prairie Schooner, \u003c\/em\u003eand\u003cem\u003e TriQuarterly\u003c\/em\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-normal leading-[1.7]\"\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWho is this class for?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-normal leading-[1.7]\"\u003eThis online poetry workshop is for poets interested in exploring the personal, emotionally rich ode form. Whether you're drawn to celebrating grand themes like love or smaller pleasures like ripe plums, this class welcomes writers at all levels who want to deepen their practice of praise poetry.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-normal leading-[1.7]\"\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat to expect:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-normal leading-[1.7]\"\u003eMost poets turn to writing odes at some point in their careers. Odes offer an opportunity to praise and offer appreciation for life's huge experiences, like love, but also for life's smaller pleasures, like ripe plums. But odes are more than thoughtless happiness—they provide an opportunity for careful thought and examination of what makes life worth living.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-normal leading-[1.7]\"\u003eIn this intensive generative poetry workshop, you will explore the many facets of writing odes through poetry analysis, active discussion, and a progressively challenging set of writing activities that touch upon both your internal, personal world and how you interact with the larger world around you.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-normal leading-[1.7]\"\u003eYou will study diverse poems from contemporary poets such as Ross Gay, Sharon Olds, Lucille Clifton, Ocean Vuong, Pablo Neruda, Kevin Young, and many more to see how they successfully explore themselves and the world through odes. This creative writing workshop balances close reading with hands-on writing exercises designed to help you find your own voice within this celebrated poetic form.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-normal leading-[1.7]\"\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat are the writing goals?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-normal leading-[1.7]\"\u003eIn this course, students will draft at least two new poems while also enjoying a variety of short prompt-based exercises. Students will engage directly with model odes and use them as launching points for their own generative work. All materials will be provided in a course workbook—no outside reading required.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-normal leading-[1.7]\"\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eReadings\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-normal leading-[1.7]\"\u003eReadings may include excerpts from contemporary poets such as Ross Gay, Sharon Olds, Lucille Clifton, Ocean Vuong, Pablo Neruda, Kevin Young, and others. All readings are provided in the course workbook.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-normal leading-[1.7]\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCOURSE OUTLINE\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-normal leading-[1.7]\"\u003eThis is a one-session intensive workshop. During our three hours together, we will explore the many facets of writing odes through poetry analysis, active discussion, and a progressively challenging set of writing activities that touch upon both our internal\/personal worlds and how we interact with the larger world around us. We will study diverse poems from contemporary poets such as Ross Gay, Sharon Olds, Lucille Clifton, Ocean Vuong, Pablo Neruda, Kevin Young, and many more to see how they successfully explore themselves and the world through odes.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-normal leading-[1.7]\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCOURSE TAKEAWAYS:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul class=\"[li_\u0026amp;]:mb-0 [li_\u0026amp;]:mt-1.5 [li_\u0026amp;]:gap-1.5 [\u0026amp;:not(:last-child)_ul]:pb-1 [\u0026amp;:not(:last-child)_ol]:pb-1 list-disc flex flex-col gap-2 pl-8 mb-3\"\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"whitespace-normal break-words pl-2\"\u003eStudy diverse poetry that explores the deeply personal ode form from a variety of perspectives, including narrative, abstract, and metaphorical approaches\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"whitespace-normal break-words pl-2\"\u003eLearn how to analyze odes and draw from your personal experiences and loves to write fresh, sensory poetry\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"whitespace-normal break-words pl-2\"\u003eLearn and practice how to focus on one specific person or thing, writing deeply personal toward them, in a way that enhances both experimental and non-narrative work\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"whitespace-normal break-words pl-2\"\u003eDraft at least two new poems celebrating the people, places, and moments that matter to you\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"whitespace-normal break-words pl-2\"\u003eWalk away with new techniques for transforming appreciation into artful, compelling verse\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e🌍 \u003cstrong\u003e\u003cem\u003eClass Times by Time Zone:\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eLos Angeles (PST): 11:00 AM – 2:00 PM\u003cbr\u003eChicago (CST): 1:00 PM – 4:00 PM\u003cbr\u003eNew York (EST): 2:00 PM – 5:00 PM\u003cbr\u003eLondon (GMT): 7:00 PM – 10:00 PM\u003cbr\u003eBerlin (CET): 8:00 PM – 11:00 PM\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-normal leading-[1.7]\"\u003e\u003cstrong style=\"font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, 'San Francisco', 'Segoe UI', Roboto, 'Helvetica Neue', sans-serif; font-size: 0.875rem;\"\u003eTESTIMONIALS:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e“I feel so grateful to John for keeping his top-notch editing\/critique and workshop rates quite affordable because it’s allowed me to make such remarkable improvements over just the last year. One major breakthrough I’ve made under his tutelage is to more keenly and instinctively write from the basis of image as opposed to the abstract questionings I would previously use to launch my poetic explorations. John’s feedback often includes suggestions for mini-exercises to help hone my weaker grasp on certain elements of craft, and his vast, wide-ranging knowledge of (and awe-inspiring passion for) all things poetry-related always ensured that there was never a shortage of new suggestions or approaches to try. John has that rare, all-inclusive teaching talent for being able to show not only the what and the why, but mostly importantly, the how. I can’t thank John enough for all his generosity with his skills and expertise. ” — Abigail Licad\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e“Over the past couple of years working together, I’ve found John Sibley Williams to be a careful reader\/editor who is willing to push me out of longstanding habits. His critiques are straightforward, and his suggestions are clear and thought-provoking. John does not hesitate to push back strongly on pieces which are skeletal or merely musings without a center. That said he is also honest about his personal preferences. This provides room for my own instincts while alerting me to various untethered spots in the poems. I’m so grateful for John’s guidance which has deepened my thinking around process and craft.” — Greta Nintzel\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e“John is an exceptional teacher, poet, and editor. He expresses genuine interest in my poetry and progress as a poet, offering honest, insightful critiques and resources. I have taken his inspiring, generative workshops and received detailed feedback on individual poems as well as a thorough critique of a full-length manuscript. More than anything, John helps me deepen my understanding of my own aesthetic and draws out my poetic voice more fully.” — Sandra Fees\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e“I call John Sibley Williams trusted friend and reader now. When I shared my most recent manuscript with him, his responses were extremely thorough and sensitive. John deeply respected my poems and my intent, even when he had thoughtful and honest suggestions to offer. He was always cognizant of his approach versus my own, a rare gift.” — Amy Small-McKinney\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e“I have never received such detailed and genuine feedback of my poetry. Prompt in his turnaround and constructive at every level, John’s edits not only showed me a pathway out from the muddle I’d found myself in, but also key tactics to use in making myself a better poet. With a keen perception for theme and style, he understood completely the purpose and intended message of my manuscript. His feedback that was both holistic with a general overview and specific with line edits where needed. I will return to his editing services time and time again.” — Daniel Lassell\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e“I had an exceptionally positive experience working with John. He is a careful, thoughtful reader who can see what’s working well in a poem, and what needs a new approach. In my case, I had a few long poems that I could never seem to whip into shape. He helped me find the form that worked best for my material, and to find the sweet spot between providing enough information to a reader to follow along and maintaining the mystery in a poem that a reader wants to discover for themselves.” — Maximilian Heinegg\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e“Working with John Sibley Williams was a phenomenal experience that far exceeded my expectations. He provided nuanced readings of each one of my poems and attended to the larger themes in my collection. A generous editor, he saw what each poem was doing (or tried to do), then pinpointed ways to make it stronger. Through discerning and exacting feedback, he is also deeply respectful. His aesthetic range facilitates incisive feedback about how to maximize each poem’s effect on a potential reader. He also provided comments on my collection as a whole, including the sequencing of poems and the arc of the manuscript. In working with John, I learned so much about myself as a poet, and his feedback made me feel invigorated and ready to revise. Without a doubt, John is now one of my most important readers. I’ll definitely be sending him more work in the future!” — Shannon Winston\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e“For the price of a weekend writing workshop John provided personal feedback on my first collection of poems. He brought his experience, skill, and attention to each line. He helped me clarify what was working and what needed to be reworked, or cut, both on a particular and large scale. It was exactly what the book needed and well worth the price. His suggestions were insightful and improved the individual poems which made the whole collection feel ready! I highly recommend his editorial service to anyone who is preparing a manuscript.” — Twila Newey\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e“I met John at a time I was seeking to re-energize my poetry writing after a long hiatus. I started my collaboration with John by sending him 4 poems for his review—some new, some stuck in limbo for many years. I have found John’s review and commentary on my work to be very helpful, encouraging, and honest. He provides both big picture and detailed observations and, while my style is much different from his, I feel John respects and hears my voice. I look forward to continuing my work with him.” — Connie Soper\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e“I enjoyed the process and appreciate John’s careful eye. I really needed an objective viewpoint, which others hadn’t given me. John provided detailed responses and thorough line edits. He also has a great “bedside” manner, meaning that I asked for hard criticism and the truth and he provided those while being eager and encouraging, hard-nosed and exacting. I really appreciate this experience and want more of it.” — David Lohrey\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e“I worked with John Sibley Williams on two batches of poems and found his critique to be invaluable in my revision process. He is a very careful and thoughtful reader. He provided thorough and detailed responses to the poems as well as an overview response for each poem. He is able to critique work that is outside of his own aesthetic and his critique is offered in the spirit of making better poems. I highly recommend his services.” — Feral Willcox\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"white-space: pre-wrap;\" class=\"\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePAYMENT OPTIONS\u003c\/strong\u003e:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003eYou can pay for the course in full\u003cspan style=\"box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003ci\u003eor\u003c\/i\u003e use Shop Pay or Affirm to pay over time with equal Monthly Payments. Both options are available at checkout.\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cul data-rte-list=\"default\"\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eInstructor: John Sibley Williams\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eBegins Saturday, September 19, 2026\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eClass will meet once via Zoom from 2:00 PM – 5:00 PM EST\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eTuition is $99 USD.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e","brand":"Writing Workshops Org","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":47635478937848,"sku":null,"price":99.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0287\/3917\/4532\/files\/JohnSibleyWilliamsHeadshot.png?v=1746829020"},{"product_id":"food-poetry-writing-workshop-online","title":"How Food Evokes Poetry Writing Workshop with John Sibley Williams Starts on Monday, October 19, 2026","description":"\u003ch2\u003eMonday, October 19, 2026\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eClass will meet for one session via Zoom on Monday, 5:00 PM–8:00 PM EST\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAny questions about this class? Use the Chat Button to talk with us. \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe session will be recorded and available to watch after the seminar concludes.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eInstructor Bio\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eInstructor John Sibley Williams is the author of nine poetry collections, including \u003cem\u003eScale Model of a Country at Dawn\u003c\/em\u003e (Cider Press Review Poetry Award), \u003cem\u003eThe Drowning House\u003c\/em\u003e (Elixir Press Poetry Award), \u003cem\u003eAs One Fire Consumes Another\u003c\/em\u003e (Orison Poetry Prize), \u003cem\u003eSkin Memory\u003c\/em\u003e (Backwaters Prize, University of Nebraska Press), \u003cem\u003eskycrape\u003c\/em\u003e (WaterSedge Poetry Chapbook Contest), and \u003cem\u003eSummon\u003c\/em\u003e (JuxtaProse Chapbook Prize). His book S\u003cem\u003eky Burial: New \u0026amp; Selected Poems\u003c\/em\u003e is forthcoming in translation from the Portuguese press do lado esquerdo. A thirty-five-time Pushcart nominee, John serves as editor of \u003cem\u003eThe Inflectionist Review and \u003c\/em\u003ePoetry Editor at Kelson Books. Previous publishing credits include \u003cem\u003eBest American Poetry, Yale Review, Verse Daily, North American Review, Prairie Schooner, \u003c\/em\u003eand\u003cem\u003e TriQuarterly\u003c\/em\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-normal leading-[1.7]\"\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWho is this class for?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-normal leading-[1.7]\"\u003eThis online poetry workshop is for poets interested in exploring how food can be woven into narrative, cultural, and abstract poems. Open to all levels, from emerging voices to experienced writers seeking fresh inspiration from the everyday.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-normal leading-[1.7]\"\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat to expect:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-normal leading-[1.7]\"\u003ePoetry is witness, and what better location to witness than at the kitchen table? In this creative writing workshop, you'll discover how ingredients, recipes, and rituals of honoring can serve as both celebration and meditation. Mealtimes hold us, as well as history. Every morsel is an activation process; stories have been buried within our pots and pans.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-normal leading-[1.7]\"\u003eThroughout this three-hour online writing class, you'll explore how flavors serve as a platter of beginnings and endings—of relationships, cultures, identities, memory, medicine, and bodies. We will study food poems that examine our families, cultures, and sources of comfort, drawing from work by Li-Young Lee, Maxine Kumin, Chen Chen, Francine J. Harris, Galway Kinnell, Kevin Young, and other poets who illuminate the intimate relationship between eating and the soul.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-normal leading-[1.7]\"\u003eThis poetry writing workshop combines close reading of exemplary poems with hands-on generative exercises. Through the course workbook, you'll practice crafting narrative, abstract, and metaphorical poems, all while discovering how the little, often mundane things can be explored in deeply meaningful ways.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-normal leading-[1.7]\"\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat are the writing goals?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-normal leading-[1.7]\"\u003eIn this course, students will draft at least two new poems while also engaging in a variety of short prompt-based exercises. No outside reading is required; all materials are provided through the course workbook.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-normal leading-[1.7]\"\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eReadings\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-normal leading-[1.7]\"\u003eAll readings are provided via the course workbook and include poems by Li-Young Lee, Maxine Kumin, Chen Chen, Francine J. Harris, Galway Kinnell, Kevin Young, and others.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-normal leading-[1.7]\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCOURSE OUTLINE\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-normal leading-[1.7]\"\u003eWe will study food poems exploring our families, culture, what brings us comfort, and more. We will examine work by Li-Young Lee, Maxine Kumin, Chen Chen, Francine J. Harris, Galway Kinnell, Kevin Young, and other poets who explore the intimate relationship between eating and the soul. Students will engage in prompt-based writing exercises and draft new poems.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-normal leading-[1.7]\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCOURSE TAKEAWAYS:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul class=\"[li_\u0026amp;]:mb-0 [li_\u0026amp;]:mt-1.5 [li_\u0026amp;]:gap-1.5 [\u0026amp;:not(:last-child)_ul]:pb-1 [\u0026amp;:not(:last-child)_ol]:pb-1 list-disc flex flex-col gap-2 pl-8 mb-3\"\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"whitespace-normal break-words pl-2\"\u003eStudy diverse poetry that explores how food can be the focus of and woven into poetry to great effect\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"whitespace-normal break-words pl-2\"\u003eLearn how to analyze contemporary poetry for how the little, often mundane things can be explored in deeply meaningful ways\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"whitespace-normal break-words pl-2\"\u003eLearn and practice how to write narrative, abstract, and metaphorical poems\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"whitespace-normal break-words pl-2\"\u003eLearn and practice how to weave your family and culture into poetry via food\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"whitespace-normal break-words pl-2\"\u003eDraft at least two new poems inspired by the intimate relationship between eating and the soul\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-normal leading-[1.7]\"\u003e\u003cstrong style=\"font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, 'San Francisco', 'Segoe UI', Roboto, 'Helvetica Neue', sans-serif; font-size: 0.875rem;\"\u003eTESTIMONIALS:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e“I feel so grateful to John for keeping his top-notch editing\/critique and workshop rates quite affordable because it’s allowed me to make such remarkable improvements over just the last year. One major breakthrough I’ve made under his tutelage is to more keenly and instinctively write from the basis of image as opposed to the abstract questionings I would previously use to launch my poetic explorations. John’s feedback often includes suggestions for mini-exercises to help hone my weaker grasp on certain elements of craft, and his vast, wide-ranging knowledge of (and awe-inspiring passion for) all things poetry-related always ensured that there was never a shortage of new suggestions or approaches to try. John has that rare, all-inclusive teaching talent for being able to show not only the what and the why, but mostly importantly, the how. I can’t thank John enough for all his generosity with his skills and expertise. ” — Abigail Licad\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e“Over the past couple of years working together, I’ve found John Sibley Williams to be a careful reader\/editor who is willing to push me out of longstanding habits. His critiques are straightforward, and his suggestions are clear and thought-provoking. John does not hesitate to push back strongly on pieces which are skeletal or merely musings without a center. That said he is also honest about his personal preferences. This provides room for my own instincts while alerting me to various untethered spots in the poems. I’m so grateful for John’s guidance which has deepened my thinking around process and craft.” — Greta Nintzel\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e“John is an exceptional teacher, poet, and editor. He expresses genuine interest in my poetry and progress as a poet, offering honest, insightful critiques and resources. I have taken his inspiring, generative workshops and received detailed feedback on individual poems as well as a thorough critique of a full-length manuscript. More than anything, John helps me deepen my understanding of my own aesthetic and draws out my poetic voice more fully.” — Sandra Fees\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e“I call John Sibley Williams trusted friend and reader now. When I shared my most recent manuscript with him, his responses were extremely thorough and sensitive. John deeply respected my poems and my intent, even when he had thoughtful and honest suggestions to offer. He was always cognizant of his approach versus my own, a rare gift.” — Amy Small-McKinney\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e“I have never received such detailed and genuine feedback of my poetry. Prompt in his turnaround and constructive at every level, John’s edits not only showed me a pathway out from the muddle I’d found myself in, but also key tactics to use in making myself a better poet. With a keen perception for theme and style, he understood completely the purpose and intended message of my manuscript. His feedback that was both holistic with a general overview and specific with line edits where needed. I will return to his editing services time and time again.” — Daniel Lassell\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e“I had an exceptionally positive experience working with John. He is a careful, thoughtful reader who can see what’s working well in a poem, and what needs a new approach. In my case, I had a few long poems that I could never seem to whip into shape. He helped me find the form that worked best for my material, and to find the sweet spot between providing enough information to a reader to follow along and maintaining the mystery in a poem that a reader wants to discover for themselves.” — Maximilian Heinegg\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e“Working with John Sibley Williams was a phenomenal experience that far exceeded my expectations. He provided nuanced readings of each one of my poems and attended to the larger themes in my collection. A generous editor, he saw what each poem was doing (or tried to do), then pinpointed ways to make it stronger. Through discerning and exacting feedback, he is also deeply respectful. His aesthetic range facilitates incisive feedback about how to maximize each poem’s effect on a potential reader. He also provided comments on my collection as a whole, including the sequencing of poems and the arc of the manuscript. In working with John, I learned so much about myself as a poet, and his feedback made me feel invigorated and ready to revise. Without a doubt, John is now one of my most important readers. I’ll definitely be sending him more work in the future!” — Shannon Winston\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e“For the price of a weekend writing workshop John provided personal feedback on my first collection of poems. He brought his experience, skill, and attention to each line. He helped me clarify what was working and what needed to be reworked, or cut, both on a particular and large scale. It was exactly what the book needed and well worth the price. His suggestions were insightful and improved the individual poems which made the whole collection feel ready! I highly recommend his editorial service to anyone who is preparing a manuscript.” — Twila Newey\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e“I met John at a time I was seeking to re-energize my poetry writing after a long hiatus. I started my collaboration with John by sending him 4 poems for his review—some new, some stuck in limbo for many years. I have found John’s review and commentary on my work to be very helpful, encouraging, and honest. He provides both big picture and detailed observations and, while my style is much different from his, I feel John respects and hears my voice. I look forward to continuing my work with him.” — Connie Soper\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e“I enjoyed the process and appreciate John’s careful eye. I really needed an objective viewpoint, which others hadn’t given me. John provided detailed responses and thorough line edits. He also has a great “bedside” manner, meaning that I asked for hard criticism and the truth and he provided those while being eager and encouraging, hard-nosed and exacting. I really appreciate this experience and want more of it.” — David Lohrey\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e“I worked with John Sibley Williams on two batches of poems and found his critique to be invaluable in my revision process. He is a very careful and thoughtful reader. He provided thorough and detailed responses to the poems as well as an overview response for each poem. He is able to critique work that is outside of his own aesthetic and his critique is offered in the spirit of making better poems. I highly recommend his services.” — Feral Willcox\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"\" style=\"white-space: pre-wrap;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePAYMENT OPTIONS\u003c\/strong\u003e:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003eYou can pay for the course in full\u003cspan style=\"box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003ci\u003eor\u003c\/i\u003e use Shop Pay or Affirm to pay over time with equal Monthly Payments. Both options are available at checkout.\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cul data-rte-list=\"default\"\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eInstructor: John Sibley Williams\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eBegins Monday, October 19, 2026\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eClass will meet for one session via Zoom on Monday, 5:00 PM–8:00 PM EST\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eTuition is $99 USD\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e","brand":"Writing Workshops Org","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":47636297351416,"sku":null,"price":99.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0287\/3917\/4532\/files\/JohnSibleyWilliamsHeadshot.png?v=1746829020"}],"url":"https:\/\/writingworkshops.com\/en-fr\/collections\/gift-guide-thoughtful-picks.oembed?page=2","provider":"Writing Workshops","version":"1.0","type":"link"}