Writing Connections

Our guest for this episode, Nikos Dimitriou, is a former world traveler and current host of bespoke writing retreats in Evia, Greece. In our conversation, we discuss how he and his wife explored the globe for seven years before returning home to start their hospitality venture Writers' Retreats | Greece. We explore his writing journey and discuss the importance of community and connection at home and abroad. Show Notes:Visit Nikos and Georgia on Instagram or book your own magical stay in Greece at their website. Check out some of the poems written by Hilary Sideris last time she was in Evia. And for the April special at Root & Rise in France, use the code BYOBestie.------------------------Connect with me online:On Instagram @writing_connections_podcast or @laura_isa_walkerOn my website: lauraswalker.comThrough my newsletterAdditional Resources:Get the latest information about promoting or finding a writing retreat.Promote Your Writing RetreatMake sure to hit subscribe or follow so you never miss an episode!

This month's guest, Erin McGuire, is a former academic and global research leader whose career has centered on equity in agricultural innovation systems. In 2025, when shifts in U.S. government priorities abruptly cut her federal research funding, Erin faced a pivotal moment. Rather than retreat, she chose to build. What had begun as quiet conversations about creating space for women to rest and reconnect became Root & Rise—a community-backed retreat and investment model grounded in collective ownership and shared joy. In this episode, we talk about the path that led her to this moment, mere months away from the first ever first Root & Rise summer camp in the French Countryside.Show Notes: Connect with Erin and the Root & Rise community...on their website (https://rootandrise.com/) or Instagram (@__rootandrise__/). ------------------------Connect with me online:On Instagram @writing_connections_podcast or @laura_isa_walkerOn my website: lauraswalker.comThrough my newsletterAdditional Resources:Get the latest information about promoting or finding a writing retreat.Promote Your Writing RetreatMake sure to hit subscribe or follow so you never miss an episode!

In part 2 of my interview with Chelsea DesAutels, we talk about doing the work in terms of facing rejection and creating community out of crisis. Chelsea DesAutels is the author of A Dangerous Place (Sarabande Books, 2021), which was named a New York Times Editors’ Choice and described by Publishers Weekly as a “lush and transformative debut” (starred review). Chelsea writes and teaches extensively and is the founder of Freshwater Writing, which offers writer-focused, community-centered retreats, writing circles, and mentorships.Show Notes: Connect with Chelsea on her website (chelseabdesautels.com) or Instagram (@freshwaterwriting). Read her essay, The Poetry of Minneapolis, here.------------------------Connect with me online:On Instagram @writing_connections_podcast or @laura_isa_walkerOn my website: lauraswalker.comThrough my newsletterAdditional Resources:Get the latest information about promoting or finding a writing retreat.Promote Your Writing RetreatMake sure to hit subscribe or follow so you never miss an episode!

Chelsea DesAutels is the author of A Dangerous Place (Sarabande Books, 2021), which was named a New York Times Editors’ Choice and described by Publishers Weekly as a “lush and transformative debut” (starred review). Chelsea writes and teaches extensively and is the founder of Freshwater Writing, which offers writer-focused, community-centered retreats, writing circles, and mentorships.In Part 1 of my conversation with Chelsea, we talk about her experience attending and running retreats and the importance of putting yourself out there to make connections and build a life as a writer. Check back in two weeks for part 2, where we discuss risk, rejection, and the role of poetry in difficult times. Show Links:Chelsea's websiteChelsea's InstagramFreshwater Writing------------------------Connect with me online:On Instagram @writing_connections_podcast or @laura_isa_walkerOn my website: lauraswalker.comThrough my newsletterAdditional Resources:Get the latest information about promoting or finding a writing retreat.Promote Your Writing RetreatMake sure to hit subscribe or follow so you never miss an episode!

In this second half of my interview with Shannon Vesely, we take a broader view on writing connections and talk about how to make the most of them. Shannon gives advice on both attending and offering retreats, and we discuss what to do with rejection. Ultimately, Shannon shares her successes and failures as a writer and the importance of creating your own path. Show Links:Shannon's blog SanctuariesShannon's book The Way of ThingsShannon's book Keeping Watch on Soap CreekSoaring Gardens Artist Retreat application portal------------------------Connect with me online:On Instagram @writing_connections_podcast or @laura_isa_walkerOn my website: lauraswalker.comThrough my newsletterAdditional Resources:Get the latest information about promoting or finding a writing retreat.Promote Your Writing RetreatMake sure to hit subscribe or follow so you never miss an episode!

In this first episode of 2026, I interview Shannon Vesely, a poet, writer, and educator. This is the first half of our interview, where we discuss Shannon's writing process and her experience with writing retreats. Show Links:Shannon's blog SanctuariesShannon's book The Way of ThingsShannon's book Keeping Watch on Soap CreekSoaring Gardens Artist Retreat application portal------------------------Connect with me online:On Instagram @writing_connections_podcast or @laura_isa_walkerOn my website: lauraswalker.comThrough my newsletterAdditional Resources:Get the latest information about promoting or finding a writing retreat.Promote Your Writing RetreatMake sure to hit subscribe or follow so you never miss an episode!

In this episode, Laura discusses her history with all kinds of writing retreats, her vision for this podcast, and her infatuation with inchworms—perhaps the most acrobatic of all earthbound insects. 🐛 Tune in to catch the new name of the podcast and to hear us gush about its future!Show Links:Laura Walker's websiteInchworms doing their thing!Laura's instagram @laura_isa_walker------------------------Connect with me online:On Instagram @writing_connections_podcast or @laura_isa_walkerOn my website: lauraswalker.comThrough my newsletterAdditional Resources:Get the latest information about promoting or finding a writing retreat.Promote Your Writing RetreatMake sure to hit subscribe or follow so you never miss an episode!

I was excited to talk to this week’s guest, Laura Walker about the upcoming changes to this podcast. We delved into my mission for it when I started it and how excited I am to have Laura, who is amazing, take the reins and keep it growing.Today’s episode is part 1 of that interview. Tune in in a few weeks for part 2 to hear more about Laura’s vision to help more writers feel supported, inspired and motivated.Show Links:Laura Walker's website------------------------Connect with me online:On Instagram @writing_connections_podcast or @laura_isa_walkerOn my website: lauraswalker.comThrough my newsletterAdditional Resources:Get the latest information about promoting or finding a writing retreat.Promote Your Writing RetreatMake sure to hit subscribe or follow so you never miss an episode!

 Welcome to Season 3 of "Your Writing Retreat Connection." In this episode I share what's in store for the next chapter of the podcast.------------------------Connect with me online:On Instagram @writing_connections_podcast or @laura_isa_walkerOn my website: lauraswalker.comThrough my newsletterAdditional Resources:Get the latest information about promoting or finding a writing retreat.Promote Your Writing RetreatMake sure to hit subscribe or follow so you never miss an episode!

Thank you for supporting the "Your Writing Retreat Connection" podcast during season 2. We had great episodes chatting with writing retreat hosts and writers from around the world. The show is going on hiatus for the summer and will be back in September 2025. All the previous episodes have great information for writers and writing retreat hosts so I highly recommend going back and listening to earlier episodes.And don’t forget to check out the Writing Retreat Directory to find a great writing retreat or to advertise yours.If you’ve been wanting to host a writing retreat or improve on your last one, the Plan A Writing Retreat website has great information and resources. Links to those are in the show notes.See you in September!------------------------Connect with me online:On Instagram @writing_connections_podcast or @laura_isa_walkerOn my website: lauraswalker.comThrough my newsletterAdditional Resources:Get the latest information about promoting or finding a writing retreat.Promote Your Writing RetreatMake sure to hit subscribe or follow so you never miss an episode!

I was excited to talk to this week’s guest, Christine Sheehy, about her experiences hosting and going on writing retreats.We also had a great chat about why she decided to host writing retreats and become a book coach. Like so many of us, she just followed the path the experiences in her life were taking her.I loved hearing how Christine’s writing retreats started as a way to give writers time and space to write and how they evolved - especially after getting her Author Accelerator Book Coaching Certification.Show Links:Christine Sheehy's websiteAuthor Accelerator (find a book coach or look into becoming one)------------------------Connect with me online:On Instagram @writing_connections_podcast or @laura_isa_walkerOn my website: lauraswalker.comThrough my newsletterAdditional Resources:Get the latest information about promoting or finding a writing retreat.Promote Your Writing RetreatMake sure to hit subscribe or follow so you never miss an episode!

This is a great episode with Ralph Fletcher, who's involved in the writing world as a writer and writing teacher. He has authored books for young readers, novels, poetry, memoir, picture books as well as nonfiction books for writing teachers to use with their students.And, since last year,he’s added writing retreat host to that list.We had a great conversation about how he and his co-host Georgia Heard give writers, and teachers specifically, a space to explore their creative side with the Quoddy Writing Retreat in Lubec, Maine.Show Links:Quoddy Writing RetreatMore about Ralph FletcherEmail Ralph about the Quoddy Writing Retreat at [email protected] with me online:On Instagram @writing_connections_podcast or @laura_isa_walkerOn my website: lauraswalker.comThrough my newsletterAdditional Resources:Get the latest information about promoting or finding a writing retreat.Promote Your Writing RetreatMake sure to hit subscribe or follow so you never miss an episode!

To set the stage for this interview, a few months ago I did a solo episode about how I thought book coaches could benefit from adding writing retreats to their business offers.Then I started thinking about how people who are leading writing retreats might want to become book coaches to help more writers. I wanted to do a deep dive on this topic, so I went straight to the expert - Jennie Nash, the CEO and Founder of Author Accelerator.I’m thrilled that Jennie was my guest this week because she is such a great inspiration for anyone who wants to build a business around helping writers tell their stories and get their voices out into the world.Jennie is also the author of twelve books in three genres, and a book coach for many best sellers in a variety of genres.Jennie shared so much great insight on how book coaches help writers achieve their writing and publishing goals. She also had some great points about building and sustaining a business that focuses on helping writers.Show Links:Learn more about becoming a book coachEpisode 49 - 4 Reasons Book Coaches Should Hold Writing RetreatsEpisode 74 -Cruise Writing Retreat with Amy Goldmacher------------------------Connect with me online:On Instagram @writing_connections_podcast or @laura_isa_walkerOn my website: lauraswalker.comThrough my newsletterAdditional Resources:Get the latest information about promoting or finding a writing retreat.Promote Your Writing RetreatMake sure to hit subscribe or follow so you never miss an episode!

I can’t say this enough - please don't assume what anybody can't or won't pay for your retreat. Believe me, if they really want and need your retreat, they'll find a way to pay for it. Even though you have no idea what someone can or can’t afford, or what they want to spend their money on, you still have to do the work to make sure people see the value of purchasing a spot in your retreat.Show Link:Plan A Writing Retreat Mastermind------------------------Connect with me online:On Instagram @writing_connections_podcast or @laura_isa_walkerOn my website: lauraswalker.comThrough my newsletterAdditional Resources:Get the latest information about promoting or finding a writing retreat.Promote Your Writing RetreatMake sure to hit subscribe or follow so you never miss an episode!

In this solo episode I talk about the three reasons you should plan a writing retreat even if you don't think you're ready:Just because you start planning a writing retreat doesn’t mean you have to set a hard date. But thinking about the steps can get you more excited about it.No one get everything perfect the first time. The only way you’ll know if you’ve missed something or if something would have been better another way is to actually hold that first writing retreat.Writers are actively looking for dedicated writing time and a place to be around other writers. Be that person for them.Show Links:Planning a Writing Retreat RoadmapPlan A Writing Retreat Mastermind------------------------Connect with me online:On Instagram @writing_connections_podcast or @laura_isa_walkerOn my website: lauraswalker.comThrough my newsletterAdditional Resources:Get the latest information about promoting or finding a writing retreat.Promote Your Writing RetreatMake sure to hit subscribe or follow so you never miss an episode!

Arden Coutts is an author and writing retreat host who makes community building a huge part of their writing and writing retreats. I was thrilled to have them on the show to talk about their 1-day virtual writing retreat coming up in May. They've thought of so many small details that will help writers feel immersed in the writing retreat experience.We also chatted about:The positive influence traveling and exploring new areas can have on your writing.How writing in a different area - even if it's just a local cafe - can make you a more productive writer.Benefits of attending a virtual writing retreat.Some great ideas if you want to plan and host a virtual writing retreat.Show Links:Arden's website and published booksWandering Creative Life Virtual Writing RetreatFollow Arden on Instagram------------------------Connect with me online:On Instagram @writing_connections_podcast or @laura_isa_walkerOn my website: lauraswalker.comThrough my newsletterAdditional Resources:Get the latest information about promoting or finding a writing retreat.Promote Your Writing RetreatMake sure to hit subscribe or follow so you never miss an episode!

My guest this week is  Amy Goldmacher, a published author as well as an Author Accelerator Certified Book Coach. We chatted about:Why she decided now was the time to lead her own writing retreat after being an instructor on someone else’s.The many ways she helps writers with nonfiction books - ones that help people with your experience, method or message as well as memoir.And the Cruise Writing Retreat she’s holding in September - writers will definitely benefit from the one on one time she’s offering all participants!I loved how Amy pushed through her fears and went for holding her own writing retreat. And I think we all needed to hear her great advice on giving yourself permission to focus on you and your writing. Show Links:Cruise Writing RetreatHow Amy Helps WritersYour 5-Step DIY Writing Retreat Planner ------------------------Connect with me online:On Instagram @writing_connections_podcast or @laura_isa_walkerOn my website: lauraswalker.comThrough my newsletterAdditional Resources:Get the latest information about promoting or finding a writing retreat.Promote Your Writing RetreatMake sure to hit subscribe or follow so you never miss an episode!

I was thrilled to chat with author and writing instructor Nina Hart because of the many amazing ways she’s supporting writers, especially those whose style of writing or writing process doesn't fit into neat boxes. In this episode we chatted about:her Writing from the Top of Your Head program and how it really changed her life.the amazing writing retreat she's holding in Scotland.how she's helping writers find their voice and their gifts to teach others.And much more.I’m sure you’ll love hearing what Nina has to say as much as I did.Show Links:Scotland Writing Retreat with Nina HartWriting from the Top of Your Head websiteEmail Nina Hart with questions about the writing retreat------------------------Connect with me online:On Instagram @writing_connections_podcast or @laura_isa_walkerOn my website: lauraswalker.comThrough my newsletterAdditional Resources:Get the latest information about promoting or finding a writing retreat.Promote Your Writing RetreatMake sure to hit subscribe or follow so you never miss an episode!

People aren't going to spend hundreds or thousands of dollars on your writing retreat if they don't even know if you can help them reach their writing or publishing goals.In this episode, I share how to build a ladder of offers to show writers the value you bring them through your free or low cost services. It will make therm feel more  comfortable going on your writing retreat because they already know you, your style, and the content you offer works for them.Show Links:Bookmas in January (Runs January 10 - 31, 2025)------------------------Connect with me online:On Instagram @writing_connections_podcast or @laura_isa_walkerOn my website: lauraswalker.comThrough my newsletterAdditional Resources:Get the latest information about promoting or finding a writing retreat.Promote Your Writing RetreatMake sure to hit subscribe or follow so you never miss an episode!

If you’re in the early planning stages of your writing retreat, you may be thinking about who you want your retreat to help most. I’ve talked a lot about the importance of figuring this out so when someone sees your messaging on social media, in your email newsletters, and on your retreat info page, they know if your writing retreat is the best fit for them.In this week’s episode, I’m going to give you examples of what other writing retreat leaders have done to attract very specific types of writers.Show Links:Shadows and Secrets Writing Retreat with Samantha Skal and Kerry SavageBookmas in January (Runs January 10 - 31, 2025)------------------------Connect with me online:On Instagram @writing_connections_podcast or @laura_isa_walkerOn my website: lauraswalker.comThrough my newsletterAdditional Resources:Get the latest information about promoting or finding a writing retreat.Promote Your Writing RetreatMake sure to hit subscribe or follow so you never miss an episode!

In this week’s episode of Your Writing Retreat Connection, I talked about the three ways you can set expectations so writers will know how your writing retreat helps them.Get clear on what you’ll offer and how your writing retreat helps writers.Create and communicate unified messages for those to use on different platforms.Get creative with ways you can talk about how you help writers and where your writing retreat fits into that.Show Links:Bookmas in January (Runs January 10 - 31, 2025)------------------------Connect with me online:On Instagram @writing_connections_podcast or @laura_isa_walkerOn my website: lauraswalker.comThrough my newsletterAdditional Resources:Get the latest information about promoting or finding a writing retreat.Promote Your Writing RetreatMake sure to hit subscribe or follow so you never miss an episode!

In this year end episode of the podcast, I reflect on how far the different aspects of my business--the Writing Retreat Directory, Your Writing Retreat Connection, and Plan A Writing Retreat--have come and what my vision is for 2025.Wishing you a happy and healthy year to come!Show Links:If you're interested in being a guest on this podcast, please fill out this form I'm using to keep track of guests: Podcast Interest Form------------------------Connect with me online:On Instagram @writing_connections_podcast or @laura_isa_walkerOn my website: lauraswalker.comThrough my newsletterAdditional Resources:Get the latest information about promoting or finding a writing retreat.Promote Your Writing RetreatMake sure to hit subscribe or follow so you never miss an episode!

There's an aspect of pricing your writing retreat that should be considered, but is often overlooked - how to include the intangible value when deciding how much to charge for your writing retreat.These are things that affect your guests’ experience, in some ways even more than the things they can see or actively be involved in, but are much harder to put a price on.In this episode, I cover why to include intangible value in your pricing and give you examples of what to think about.------------------------Connect with me online:On Instagram @writing_connections_podcast or @laura_isa_walkerOn my website: lauraswalker.comThrough my newsletterAdditional Resources:Get the latest information about promoting or finding a writing retreat.Promote Your Writing RetreatMake sure to hit subscribe or follow so you never miss an episode!

If you're planning a writing retreat, there are 4 types of activities you can include:Welcome ActivitiesWriting ActivitiesNon Writing ActivitiesFarewell ActivitiesIn this episode I talk about each of these and give you examples to help you decide what to include in your writing retreat.------------------------Connect with me online:On Instagram @writing_connections_podcast or @laura_isa_walkerOn my website: lauraswalker.comThrough my newsletterAdditional Resources:Get the latest information about promoting or finding a writing retreat.Promote Your Writing RetreatMake sure to hit subscribe or follow so you never miss an episode!

In this week’s episode of Your Writing Retreat Connection I’ll be talking about what to do if you want to host a writing retreat but you don’t want to do it alone or you want to add a speaker or workshop leader for a specific craft topic. Show Link:Connect with a Writing Retreat Instructor------------------------Connect with me online:On Instagram @writing_connections_podcast or @laura_isa_walkerOn my website: lauraswalker.comThrough my newsletterAdditional Resources:Get the latest information about promoting or finding a writing retreat.Promote Your Writing RetreatMake sure to hit subscribe or follow so you never miss an episode!

First, if You've made the decision to carve out time for yourself and your writing, congratulations! Now, how do you find a writing retreat that will inspire, motivate, and support you to tell your best story?Take the following into consideration and you'll be well on your way to finding the writing retreat that works for you and your writing goals.1. The first thing to think about is your budget because you don’t want to look at retreats that look great only to find out you can’t afford it.2. Next, think about how much time you can spend away and what times of year are easiest for you to escape for a few days or weeks.3. After that, look for writing retreats that have the type of weather or temperatures you’ll be comfortable with during the time of the retreat.4. The last thing I want you to consider when looking for a writing retreat are the goals you have for your writing.Listen to the full episode for more details about each of these points.------------------------Connect with me online:On Instagram @writing_connections_podcast or @laura_isa_walkerOn my website: lauraswalker.comThrough my newsletterAdditional Resources:Get the latest information about promoting or finding a writing retreat.Promote Your Writing RetreatMake sure to hit subscribe or follow so you never miss an episode!

I was thrilled to talk to this week’s guest, award-winning author and writing retreat leader, David Rocklin.We covered a variety of topics around planning and leading writing retreats, how David helps writers bring out their stories - including ones they didn’t realize were there. I love the way he leads his writing retreats and puts the needs of the writers first.David also shared where the inspiration for his novels comes from, which I found very interesting, as well as the details for the retreat he’s leading for Foreword Writing Retreats in Chamonix, France in June of 2025.And, this was another great episode where the guest reminded you that you’re a writer. I feel like that’s definitely been a theme lately and I was very happy to hear David reiterate it. Show Links:David Rocklin’s author website (includes links to his books)Pre-order The Electric Song of Fleischl Berger by David RocklinForeword Writing Retreat in Chamonix, France with David Rocklin------------------------Connect with me online:On Instagram @writing_connections_podcast or @laura_isa_walkerOn my website: lauraswalker.comThrough my newsletterAdditional Resources:Get the latest information about promoting or finding a writing retreat.Promote Your Writing RetreatMake sure to hit subscribe or follow so you never miss an episode!

I love talking with writers about their experiences attending a writing retreat so I was thrilled to have Liz Redston on as a guest. Liz and I chatted about her experiences at the Weekend Writing Retreat, the importance of giving yourself space to write and how the writing retreat helped her see that she had developed a workable process for her writing.I also really appreciated that Liz shared her thoughts on how we need to stop diminishing ourselves as writers and our writing.------------------------Connect with me online:On Instagram @writing_connections_podcast or @laura_isa_walkerOn my website: lauraswalker.comThrough my newsletterAdditional Resources:Get the latest information about promoting or finding a writing retreat.Promote Your Writing RetreatMake sure to hit subscribe or follow so you never miss an episode!

If you want to reach more writers, have you considered a Facebook ad to send them to your retreat link?Writers are actively looking for resources that can help them finish their novel, become better at their craft, or get feedback on their work. But there is so much information out there it can be hard to rise above the noise and have writers find out about your writing retreat. So in this week’s episode I talked about using Facebook ads to get your writing retreat in front of more writers.I even walk you through the steps I took to create an ad aimed at writers - which was more successful than I was expecting!Listen to the episode and leave your comments on the blog post or Instagram post. See the links below for each.Show Links:Blog Post - Using Facebook Ads to Reach More WritersInstagram Post - Using Facebook Ads to Reach More Writers------------------------Connect with me online:On Instagram @writing_connections_podcast or @laura_isa_walkerOn my website: lauraswalker.comThrough my newsletterAdditional Resources:Get the latest information about promoting or finding a writing retreat.Promote Your Writing RetreatMake sure to hit subscribe or follow so you never miss an episode!

This week I talked with Amanda Le Rougetel, a writer, editor & community educator who recently co-hosted her first writing retreat.I'm really excited for you to hear this episode because Amanda made so many great points from a writing perspective as well as a writing retreat perspective. I think you’ll relate to her thoughts on 'identity as writer' and how she started thinking of herself as a writer.We also chatted about how she and her retreat co-host, Deborah Schnitzer planned their retreat and how they were able to adjust and be flexible when the activities evolved in a way they hadn’t expected.Amanda also explains the Hermit Crab essay form - which I found very fascinating as a writer, so stick around to hear more about that towards the end of our interview.Here are a few links that relate to things that came up in our conversation:Amanda Le Rougetel's blogAmanda and Deborah's teaching websiteTell it Even More Slant, Brenda Miller's article on the  'hermit crab' essay formJane Friedman - publishing industry expertAllison K Williams - writer, and writing & publishing coach------------------------Connect with me online:On Instagram @writing_connections_podcast or @laura_isa_walkerOn my website: lauraswalker.comThrough my newsletterAdditional Resources:Get the latest information about promoting or finding a writing retreat.Promote Your Writing RetreatMake sure to hit subscribe or follow so you never miss an episode!

If you've been looking for a writers residency, you'll love this episode!I chatted with Tammy Letherer, an award-winning author, writing coach, and developmental editor for Atmosphere Press, about the Beach Glass Writers Residency she offers.I thought it was cool how Tammy offers a bespoke experience for her writing residency guests with trips to the writers museum, local writing events, book launches, or conversations with other local authorsWe also talked about how she’s learned to give herself permission to make her writing a priority and the unexpected event in her life that sparked the idea for her memoir, “The Buddha at My Table: How I Found Peace in Betrayal and Divorce”As you’ll hear, Tammy’s driving motivation for what she does comes back to how can she hang out with writers,  have fun, and have conversations with them.Show Links:Beach Glass Writers ResidencyTammy Letherer's website------------------------Connect with me online:On Instagram @writing_connections_podcast or @laura_isa_walkerOn my website: lauraswalker.comThrough my newsletterAdditional Resources:Get the latest information about promoting or finding a writing retreat.Promote Your Writing RetreatMake sure to hit subscribe or follow so you never miss an episode!

I had the absolute pleasure to talk with Kathryn Kay, a book coach and author who offers workshops, one on one coaching, and writing retreats.We talked about why she decided to add a writing residency in Santa Barbara, California to the programs she offers writers as well as her upcoming Tuscany Writing Retreats.We also had a great conversation about various ways to market and promote a writing retreat. If you follow me on social media or listen to my podcast regularly, you know I’m a big proponent of using email marketing to help fill your retreat spots, so it was great to talk to Kathryn, a seasoned retreat leader, more in depth on that topic.Show Links:A Writer Within WebsiteA Writer Within on Instagram------------------------Connect with me online:On Instagram @writing_connections_podcast or @laura_isa_walkerOn my website: lauraswalker.comThrough my newsletterAdditional Resources:Get the latest information about promoting or finding a writing retreat.Promote Your Writing RetreatMake sure to hit subscribe or follow so you never miss an episode!

I really enjoyed my conversation with Nafisah Cabrera-Estévez, who is a writer, community builder, writing retreat host and book coach. And, at one time, even owned a bookstore.We chatted about the community she's building as co-founder of the Muslim Writers Salon as well as the supportive and nurturing writing retreats she's been holding this year.Nafisah also gave us all the details about her upcoming writing retreat in Spain in October.Show Links:Autumn Writing RetreatMuslim Writers SalonNafisah on InstagramMuslim Writers Salon on InstagramNafisah on SubstackMuslim Writers Salon on Substack------------------------Connect with me online:On Instagram @writing_connections_podcast or @laura_isa_walkerOn my website: lauraswalker.comThrough my newsletterAdditional Resources:Get the latest information about promoting or finding a writing retreat.Promote Your Writing RetreatMake sure to hit subscribe or follow so you never miss an episode!

If you're sending emails to your subscribers about your writing retreat and still aren't getting many registrations or applications, you don't have to sit and wonder why any longer. In this solo episode, I walk you through how to check your email marketing data to to pinpoint why your email messages aren't working to fill your retreat spots. Once you know where the issues are, you can fix them.If you don't already send regular emails to your subscribers, you're missing out on a huge opportunity to get your writing retreat in front of the exact people who want what you offer. For more info on that, check out the links below for Episode 13 and the Email List Building Mini Course.Show Links:Episode 55, How Tracking Your Data Can Help Fill Your Retreat Spots (Part 1, Website Data) Episode 13, Planning a Writing Retreat - Building Your Audience Schedule a 45 minute strategy call for only $45 (offer only good through September 30, 2024)Plan a Writing Retreat on InstagramEmail List Building 101 for Writing Retreat Hosts Mini Course------------------------Connect with me online:On Instagram @writing_connections_podcast or @laura_isa_walkerOn my website: lauraswalker.comThrough my newsletterAdditional Resources:Get the latest information about promoting or finding a writing retreat.Promote Your Writing RetreatMake sure to hit subscribe or follow so you never miss an episode!

This was a fun interview with Sue Anderson, founder of Entrepreneur’s Gone Wild, and owner of a retreat center she and her husband are building in the Smoky Mountains in Tennessee.We chatted about how she's helping entrepreneurs and creatives use nature to improve their overall mental and physical health.Her retreat center,  Idyllwild Woods sounds like an amazing place to hold a writing retreat for a group or for a solo writing retreat. It’s in the early stages, so make sure to sign up for her newsletter and join her Facebook group. Show Links:Entrepreneurs Gone Wild Facebook GroupEntrepreneurs Gone Wild WebsiteTriumph Communications------------------------Connect with me online:On Instagram @writing_connections_podcast or @laura_isa_walkerOn my website: lauraswalker.comThrough my newsletterAdditional Resources:Get the latest information about promoting or finding a writing retreat.Promote Your Writing RetreatMake sure to hit subscribe or follow so you never miss an episode!

Have you ever planned a writing retreat and not gotten as many registrations as you'd hoped?  It can be frustrating, especially if you can't figure out why people aren't signing up.In this solo episode, I talk about how to pinpoint problems with your writing retreat information and registration pages using your website's data analytics. Once you know where the issues are, you can fix them.Don't worry, I break it down into a few simple steps that even someone with no background in analytics can follow. I was once like that, too, so if I can do it, you can too!Show Links:Google AnalyticsGetClicky Analytics (this is an affiliate link, but the free version can give you good basic information)Schedule a 45 minute strategy call for only $45 (offer only good through September 30, 2024)Episode 13, Building Your Audience Plan a Writing Retreat on Instagram------------------------Connect with me online:On Instagram @writing_connections_podcast or @laura_isa_walkerOn my website: lauraswalker.comThrough my newsletterAdditional Resources:Get the latest information about promoting or finding a writing retreat.Promote Your Writing RetreatMake sure to hit subscribe or follow so you never miss an episode!

My guest this week is Michael Neece, author of "In Kind: Consciously Craft a Meaningful Life and Career." When he was on the show last year, we talked about how a writing retreat helped him solidify his ideas for the book, so I was thrilled to talk to him now that the book has been published.Michael shared a lot of great information on the writing process that I think you’ll find very helpful, including that he didn’t have it all figured out from day one. He started with a kernel of an idea and moved forward from there. We also chatted about how he used his book to start a movement and company centered around kindness in the workplace.Show Links:In Kind: Consciously Create a Meaningful Life and CareerOur Future is Kind Movement and CompanyMichael Neece on LinkedInYour Writing Retreat Connection, Episode 4, Crystalizing the Process With Michael Neece------------------------Connect with me online:On Instagram @writing_connections_podcast or @laura_isa_walkerOn my website: lauraswalker.comThrough my newsletterAdditional Resources:Get the latest information about promoting or finding a writing retreat.Promote Your Writing RetreatMake sure to hit subscribe or follow so you never miss an episode!

In this solo episode I talked about a survey I did with Amy Goldmacher to see what challenges people have when thinking about planning and hosting a writing retreat.I went over the questions we asked and summarized the answers. We've also put this information on a webpage that you can find here: Writing Retreat Survey Results.There's a place for comments under the content on the page so feel free to add any thoughts or questions.------------------------Connect with me online:On Instagram @writing_connections_podcast or @laura_isa_walkerOn my website: lauraswalker.comThrough my newsletterAdditional Resources:Get the latest information about promoting or finding a writing retreat.Promote Your Writing RetreatMake sure to hit subscribe or follow so you never miss an episode!

In this episode, Amy Goldmacher and I talked about the challenges and rewards with planning and hosting a writing retreat.Amy, who is also an award-winning author and Author Accelerator Certified Book Coach, helps nonfiction authors transform book ideas into killer book proposals. Show Links:Your 5-Step DIY Writing Retreat Planner (affiliate link) Use coupon code 20OFFSEASON2 until Sept 30 to get 20% off.Episode 26: A Writing Retreat Cruise with Amy GoldmacherInstagram: @solidgoldmacherX: @SolidgoldmacherFacebook: Amy GoldmacherLinkedIn: Amy Goldmacher------------------------Connect with me online:On Instagram @writing_connections_podcast or @laura_isa_walkerOn my website: lauraswalker.comThrough my newsletterAdditional Resources:Get the latest information about promoting or finding a writing retreat.Promote Your Writing RetreatMake sure to hit subscribe or follow so you never miss an episode!

Season 1 has ended and we're going on hiatus for the summer. We'll be back in September, 2024 with new episodes.I'll be scheduling interviews for Season 2, so if you're a writing retreat host, a writer who has had a good experience at a writing retreat, or a retreat venue owner/manager, I'd love to chat with you.Fill out this Your Writing Retreat Connection Podcast Interest Form and I'll get back with you as soon as possible.------------------------Connect with me online:On Instagram @writing_connections_podcast or @laura_isa_walkerOn my website: lauraswalker.comThrough my newsletterAdditional Resources:Get the latest information about promoting or finding a writing retreat.Promote Your Writing RetreatMake sure to hit subscribe or follow so you never miss an episode!

If you're a suspense, thriller, or mystery writer, this episode is for you!I had a great chat with Kerry Savage and Samantha Skal, co-hosts of the Shadows and Secrets Writing Retreat in Salem, Massachusetts.We also talked about how being Author Accelerator Certified Book Coaches gives them more tools to help their retreat guests.And you don't want to miss the webinars they host each month for writers. Sign up for their email newsletter at the link below to get notifications for them.Show Links:Shadows and Secrets Writing RetreatSamantha SkalKerry SavageProWritingAid Community- join their email list or check often for info on Crime Writers Week and other events)Author Accelerator Book Coaches - If you're interested in finding a book coach who can help you with your writing.Author Accelerator Book Coaching Program - If you're interested in finding out more about becoming a book coach.------------------------Connect with me online:On Instagram @writing_connections_podcast or @laura_isa_walkerOn my website: lauraswalker.comThrough my newsletterAdditional Resources:Get the latest information about promoting or finding a writing retreat.Promote Your Writing RetreatMake sure to hit subscribe or follow so you never miss an episode!

Are you a book coach looking for ways to deepen your connection with your clients or add another service to your business?In this episode I talk about why book coaches should consider hosting writing retreats.Note: I mention the Author Accelerator Certified Book Coaching program in this episode because so many of their certified book coaches have added their retreats to the Writing Retreat Directory and have been guests on this show to talk about their retreats. I'm in no way affiliated with them or receive anything from talking about them. Show Links: Plan A Writing Retreat on Instagram Author Accelerator Certified Book Coaching Program (NOT an affiliate link)------------------------Connect with me online:On Instagram @writing_connections_podcast or @laura_isa_walkerOn my website: lauraswalker.comThrough my newsletterAdditional Resources:Get the latest information about promoting or finding a writing retreat.Promote Your Writing RetreatMake sure to hit subscribe or follow so you never miss an episode!

In this episode, author and writing retreat host Meg Dunley shared her writing retreat success story. After hosting just one writing retreat, she booked a venue for 6 more in 2025 - and filled them all!Please note that there are some audio issues during this interview. We were 15 hours apart on the other side of the world from each other so the connection wasn't great. But Meg shares so much great information and has an inspiring story so it's worth the listen.She also shares why she decided to host her first writing retreat and gave us all the details about her "Retreat with Me" writing retreats in Victoria, Australia.Meg is also thinking about hosting virtual writing retreats, so if that interests you as a writer, follow her on social media so you don't miss any announcements. All links are below. Show Links:Retreat with Me Writing Retreat - December 2024Meg Dunley's WritingMeg Dunley on FacebookMeg Dunley on InstagramMeg Dunley on LinkedInMeg Dunley on Threads------------------------Connect with me online:On Instagram @writing_connections_podcast or @laura_isa_walkerOn my website: lauraswalker.comThrough my newsletterAdditional Resources:Get the latest information about promoting or finding a writing retreat.Promote Your Writing RetreatMake sure to hit subscribe or follow so you never miss an episode!

In this episode I chatted with Alicia Cintron, who calls herself a traveling scholarpreneur. She has a PhD and worked in higher education on the tenure track before she decided that path wasn't for her.We talked about how she's been traveling the world for the past three years helping fellow academics communitcate their research to a wider audience.She also shared all the details about her Write From Anywhere Retreats for women scholars and academics being held in Mexico and Ireland. Show Links:Write from Anywhere: MexicoWrite from Anywhere: Ireland------------------------Connect with me online:On Instagram @writing_connections_podcast or @laura_isa_walkerOn my website: lauraswalker.comThrough my newsletterAdditional Resources:Get the latest information about promoting or finding a writing retreat.Promote Your Writing RetreatMake sure to hit subscribe or follow so you never miss an episode!

Once you're home after your writing retreat is over, it's time to reflect on a few things. In this episode I share the top three points to think about: figuring out your profit or loss, what went right and what didn't, and deciding whether or not to host another writing retreat.Show Links:Here's the link to get the checklist that goes with this episode: Post Writing Retreat Reflection.------------------------Connect with me online:On Instagram @writing_connections_podcast or @laura_isa_walkerOn my website: lauraswalker.comThrough my newsletterAdditional Resources:Get the latest information about promoting or finding a writing retreat.Promote Your Writing RetreatMake sure to hit subscribe or follow so you never miss an episode!

If you're a writer who's experienced creative anxiety, I think you're going to really appreciate this interview with award-winning author and writing retreat host, Lauren Carter.We chatted about how she combines her deep knowledge of writing craft with tools to help writers navigate through perfectionism and anxiety. She also shared details about the three writing retreats she's hosting in 2024, and so much more!Show Links:Wild Ground Writing RetreatsIf you have questions about any of the retreats, email Lauren at [email protected] Carter's Amazon Author pageDr. Eric Maisel, creativity coach and psychologistSage Hill Writing------------------------Connect with me online:On Instagram @writing_connections_podcast or @laura_isa_walkerOn my website: lauraswalker.comThrough my newsletterAdditional Resources:Get the latest information about promoting or finding a writing retreat.Promote Your Writing RetreatMake sure to hit subscribe or follow so you never miss an episode!

If you've hosted a writing retreat before, you've experienced first hand how much writers can accomplish when they have dedicated writing time, free of outside distractions.If you want to help your guests stay motivated and inspired after your writing retreat is over, in this episode  I share some ways you can support writers when they return home to real life.  ------------------------Connect with me online:On Instagram @writing_connections_podcast or @laura_isa_walkerOn my website: lauraswalker.comThrough my newsletterAdditional Resources:Get the latest information about promoting or finding a writing retreat.Promote Your Writing RetreatMake sure to hit subscribe or follow so you never miss an episode!

I absolutely loved talking with Kelli Watson about all the ways she and her business partner, Greg Justice, are helping writers realize their dreams of having a published book.We chatted about how she and Greg formed Scriptor Publishing Group, the virtual writing retreats they started during the pandemic, and so much more! Her writing retreat in Ireland sounds absolutely amazing and she doesn't stop with the writing part. Kelli and her team also provide support for editing, publishing and marketing your book.Show Links:Scriptor Publishing GroupIreland Writing RetreatQuaranTEEN (the book mentioned in the interview that Kelli facilitated during the pandemic)------------------------Connect with me online:On Instagram @writing_connections_podcast or @laura_isa_walkerOn my website: lauraswalker.comThrough my newsletterAdditional Resources:Get the latest information about promoting or finding a writing retreat.Promote Your Writing RetreatMake sure to hit subscribe or follow so you never miss an episode!

 This week's guest is Bonnie Wolkenstein, a clicnical psychologist, writer, and writing retreat host. Her plans for a year-long writing sabbatical in different locations were derailed when the pandemic struck while she was at her first location, Guanajuato, Mexico. We talked about how she took advantage of new opportunities, how she uses her skills and expertise to guide writers during her retreats, and the unique way she promoted her retreat.Bonnie also shared all of the details about her next writing retreat in September 2024 in Guanajuato. Show Links:Guanajuato Writing RetreatDreaming in Cantera by Bonnie Wolkenstein------------------------Connect with me online:On Instagram @writing_connections_podcast or @laura_isa_walkerOn my website: lauraswalker.comThrough my newsletterAdditional Resources:Get the latest information about promoting or finding a writing retreat.Promote Your Writing RetreatMake sure to hit subscribe or follow so you never miss an episode!

If you followed along with episode 33 to create your plan to promote your writing retreat, and episode 37 to create you registration or application page, now is the time to put your marketing plan to work. Show Links:Planning a Writing Retreat Checklists, Phase 6 - PromotionEpisode 33: Planning a Writing Retreat - Create a Marketing PlanEpisode 37: Planning a Writing Retreat - Create Registration Page------------------------Connect with me online:On Instagram @writing_connections_podcast or @laura_isa_walkerOn my website: lauraswalker.comThrough my newsletterAdditional Resources:Get the latest information about promoting or finding a writing retreat.Promote Your Writing RetreatMake sure to hit subscribe or follow so you never miss an episode!