How to Write Your Hard Story: the Alchemy of Memoir with Lisa Cooper Ellison, Trauma-Informed Writing Coach (Ep. 9)

What if the most powerful memoirs come not from telling your story—but transforming it?In this episode, I’m joined by trauma-informed writing coach Lisa Cooper Ellison for a powerful conversation about the alchemy of memoir—the process of transforming lived experience into meaning—and why great memoirs always reveal a truth about the human condition.Lisa shares how to uncover the deeper “aboutness” of your story, how to reveal that “aboutness” on the page, and why rushing the process often keeps writers from telling their most powerful story.We also discuss how to write about difficult or traumatic experiences without overwhelming yourself—or your reader—including practical tools you can put to use right away. We dive into:Lisa’s concept of the essential question—and how it guides your entire bookHow to identify what actually belongs in your memoir (and what doesn’t)A powerful lens for choosing details, imagery, and metaphorHow to read like a writer and learn from great memoirsWhy giving feedback on other writers’ work can accelerate your own growth (and how to do it well)Common mistakes that slow writers down during drafting and revisionHow to know if you’re ready to write a particularly hard sceneWhether you’re just starting your memoir or deep in revision, this conversation will challenge you to think more deeply about your story and invite you into a writing process will produce both a better book and a changed writer.Mentioned in this episodeAllison K Williams’ “In a world where . . .” test Jeannine Ouellette’s tool for finding Your Story's Core Aboutness”“What Is a Memoir’s Essential Question and Why Do You Need One?” by Lisa Cooper EllisonCarmen Maria Machado’s In the Dream HouseMy Name Means Fire by Atash YaghmaianWhat My Bones Know by Stephanie Foo by Jeannette Walls Heavy by Kiese LaymonHow I Escaped Iran & Wrote My Way to Freedom with Atash Yaghmaian MEMOIR WRITING PROGRAM — Unearthing Beauty FREE WORKSHOP — Finish Your Life-Changing MemoirLisa's Substack and WebsiteSend me a text message with your questions or comments!___________________________________Come join the discussion!InstagramTikTokThreadsSubstackAnd visit my website to learn more about my editing services, book coaching, and upcoming courses.