SAY GOODBYE TO OVERWHELM AND FINALLY MAKE PROGRESS AS A WRITER
Are you struggling to make progress or stick to writing deadlines? Have you hit a creative wall? Do you feel stuck, overwhelmed, or lost when it comes to prioritizing your writing life?
A HOPE*WRITERS CERTIFIED COACH CAN HELP.
HOW CAN A COACH HELP ME?
Working one-on-one with a hope*writers coach will help you:
Discover what you really want out of your writing life.
A hope*writers Certified Coach will help you name what matters most to you in your writing and guide you in developing meaningful goals. You’ll focus on specific targets and learn to do your work without feeling overwhelmed.
Identify and write for your ideal reader.
We know how hard it can be for smart, multi-passionate writers to decide who they’re actually writing for. In a perfect world, everyone would read your words, right? Actually, we’ve learned that the best writing always speaks to someone specific. Our coaches will help you figure out exactly who that person is.
Improve your time management.
Some people imagine writers in a woodsy hideaway typing the last words of a genius manuscript while a fire crackles in the background. But hope*writers coaches understand that’s not the life most (or any) of us live. Writers are busy parents, professionals, and everything in between. Our coaches teach you how to make the most of your writing time and create space in your days for more.
Overcome criticism and take yourself seriously.
Who needs internet critics when you have one that lives in your head? We get it. Many writers live with a loud inner critic who tells them their words don’t matter or that everything worth saying has already been said. A hope*writers coach will help you deal with your own limiting beliefs as well as the criticism that comes from outside sources.
Eliminate overwhelm and get clear about your next steps.
How do you go from the big idea in your mind to words on the page? How do you know when it’s time to take your finished manuscript and start looking for an agent? How do you even find an agent?! A coach will help you find the answers to all the questions that come with being a working writer.
Develop your craft and grow your platform.
You likely read books and social posts from your favorite authors and wish you could sound just like them. But you’re not them — you’re you. How do you build a readership as your authentic self? A coach will help you discover your unique writing voice and empower you with the tools you need to grow your platform while staying true to who you are.
Infuse more creativity, play, and joy into your writing life.
A consistent writing rhythm is something every writer strives for, but consistency can also become monotonous. You’re sharing a message that you’re passionate about, but sometimes you may lose that spark, or your mission may feel muddy. A hope*writers coach can help you find creative habits and develop a sustainable writing practice that works long term.
Make an income that reflects the value of your writing.
You’re dedicated to your craft and willing to do the hard work of becoming a better writer every day — but you also want a paycheck. As writers, we can sometimes feel guilty about charging for our work, but an income is usually necessary if you want to do creative work forever. Our coaches will help you manage the business of publishing and learn how to make a profit from your writing.
What does a coaching session look like?
- Meet with your coach via video conferencing for 50 minutes.
- Your coach will guide you through a series of questions designed to bring you clarity and direction on your specific goals.
- Leave each session with a clear plan for your next steps.
How does it work?
- Browse the bios for our Certified Coaches below, and choose a coach who fits your needs.
- Read and sign the coaching agreement on the checkout page.
- Select your preferred coach, and purchase coaching.
- You'll receive an email with a link to schedule your first session.
- Show up to your scheduled session via video call to chat one-on-one with your coach.
Get one 50-minute coaching session for only $97!
Hope*writers members save 15% on coaching!
What writers are saying about their experiences with hope*writers Certified Coaches:
SUMMER G.
“My coaching sessions have created such clarity that one by one, I’m creating habits for my business and writing life that are propelling me forward. My coach listens intently, pinpoints my 'log jam,' and helps me make a simple, actionable plan for the week. I go away energized. That hour has been absolutely invaluable.”
ANGIE E.
"My experience with my writing coach has been very positive and encouraging. I tried to finish a book by myself for many years and there was always something that made me shut down my computer and think, 'This might not be the right time.' But since working with a hope*writers coach, I truly appreciate the way she has helped me to focus on my goals, identify distractions, and be honest with my process and emotions without giving up."
CALLY H.
“My hope*writers coach has been a complete and total blessing. I came into our sessions with a lot of 'open tabs' and overwhelm about time management. In her sincere, genuine, and 'go get ‘em' energy, my coach truly helped me to organize and find a better rhythm. I feel more empowered as a writer and more motivated than ever before.”
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
I’m a hope*writers member. Can I get a discount on coaching?
Do I have to be writing or publishing a book to take advantage of coaching?
How do I pick a coach?
Are coaches ICF certified?
Are any of the Tuesday Teachers coaches?
Is there a coach who can help me with self-publishing?
Are there coaches for fiction and nonfiction writers?
Will a coach give me feedback on my writing?
What are some of the results or benefits I can expect from coaching?
What is the refund policy?
Do coaching sessions expire?
How do I schedule with a coach?
What is your confidentiality and privacy policy?
HOPE*WRITERS CERTIFIED COACHES
ABBY MCDONALD
Book Proposals * Idea Development * Nonfiction Christian Living
Available:
Monday, Wednesday, Friday 9:30 a.m. - 2:30 p.m. ET
Wednesday & Thursday 6 p.m. - 8 p.m. ET
You don’t need to be like anyone else. As a coach, I want to help you uncover and explore the writing gifts you already possess. Together we will focus on becoming unencumbered by voices of negativity and comparison and discovering your unique writing voice. In addition to being published in print and online publications, I hold a bachelor's degree in English language and literature and have over 15 years of communications experience. I enjoy working with writers at all stages, but I am especially drawn to those who need reassurance to help them build consistency, routine, and confidence.
AMY WALKER
Writing Identity * Writing in Motherhood * Creative Recovery
Available:
Tuesday - Thursday 11 a.m. - 3 p.m. ET
Your story matters. But bringing a story into the world isn’t easy. I desire to come alongside writers who want to develop a writing identity and learn how to tap into their God-given wisdom in the process. I hold a master’s in counseling from Colorado Christian University. For over 14 years, I’ve met with clients in the hope of creating sacred spaces for them to know themselves, tell their stories, and connect with God. As a writing coach, I will help you overcome negative beliefs like imposter syndrome and uncover the confidence to share your story. You are worthy of this time centered on you and your personal growth.
ANGELA TRUSTY
Respecting Personal Strengths * Self-publishing * Editing
Available:
Monday & Friday 1 p.m. - 5 p.m. ET
Wednesday & Thursday 2 p.m. - 7:30 p.m.
Coaching will help you slow down and think about what you’re thinking. When you feel stuck, I’ll be there with a healthy balance of care and emotional distance to ask questions that put the brakes on your reactions, so they don’t feel automatic. I’m a freelance editor, long-time homeschool mom, volunteer teacher, and public relations assistant at my church. These roles have taught me to listen intently, show compassion, and desire the best outcome for you. I’m excited to support your growth and the creativity that inspires it.
DR. ELIZABETH HAMM
Fiction * Writing Routines * Ideal Reader Discovery
Available:
Monday - Thursday 10 a.m. - 11 a.m. and 3 p.m. - 7 p.m. ET
Friday 11 a.m. - 11 p.m. ET
Saturday 11 a.m. - 11 p.m. ET
Sunday 4 p.m. - 10 p.m. ET
I can’t wait to help you find clarity and support as you grow and flourish in your desires and creativity. My unique coaching style is a blend of my 12 years of experience teaching writing and English and mentoring young women. I have a bachelor’s degree in English, a master’s degree in creative writing with an emphasis in fiction, and a doctorate in rhetoric and composition. I love working with writers who desire to find their voice and purpose in their writing. If you want to write but feel uncertain of why you write or who your audience is, I’m here to help.
DR. MERIDETH HITE ESTEVEZ
Book Proposals * Creative Recovery * Podcasting * Creativity as a Spiritual Practice
Available:
Monday 10 a.m. - noon, 1 p.m. - 3 p.m. ET
Tuesday 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. ET
Wednesday 10 a.m. - 11 a.m., 1 p.m. - 3 p.m. ET
Friday 10 a.m. - noon, 1 p.m. - 3 p.m. ET
Even as a Juilliard-trained oboist and Yale grad, despite whatever success I found as a musician or writer, I struggled with a lack of purpose, imposter syndrome, and burnout. In my search for healing and wholeness, I discovered coaching and now use my expertise to help others shed the tortured artist persona. I have led hundreds of creatives of all disciplines in my Artist’s Way Creative Cluster groups and my podcast "Artists for Joy" seeks to help artists craft a more sustainable and joyful creative life. As a "Certified Start with Heart Facilitator" through Graydin, I have completed over 100 hours of one-on-one coaching. I would love to be your guide as you seek creative freedom and joy in your writing.
MICHELLE LAYER RAHAL
Memoir * Self-publishing * Idea Development
Available:
Monday - Tuesday 11 a.m. - 5 p.m. ET
Wednesday 11 a.m. - 8 p.m. ET
Friday noon - 5 p.m. ET
Every writer possesses the wisdom to create an ideal writing journey for themselves. As your writing coach, I will help you uncover the route that is best for you. If you're struggling in your writing journey, I can empathize — it took me ten years to publish my first book. I enjoy working with authors who have a personal story to tell, especially those who persevered and were transformed through hardship. It would be my joy and privilege to provide you with a safe and encouraging space where you can explore your creativity and flourish as a writer.
MIKAELA MATHEWS
Writing Routines * Ideal Reader Discovery * Nonfiction Christian Living
Available:
Unavailable from September 5, 2022 through January 1, 2023.
Writing online is thrilling. Before you are endless possibilities to reach the masses with your deepest pains, greatest joys, and heartfelt convictions. It’s beautiful. And, let’s be honest — overwhelming. After a decade as a writer and editor, it’s my joy to create a welcoming space for fellow writers, especially women who hope to one day publish a Christian living book, memoir, Bible study, or devotional. In our sessions, we will break down your questions and concerns in a safe space. Then, we will collaborate to discover manageable, personalized action steps that feel good to you.
SARA ELLINGSWORTH
Creative Recovery * Writing Routines * Wholistic Approach
Available:
Monday, Wednesday 9 p.m. - 10:00 p.m. ET
Tuesday, Thursday 10 a.m. - 1 p.m., 2 p.m. - 5 p.m. ET
Friday 11 a.m. - 1 p.m., 2 p.m. - 7 p.m. ET
Saturday 2 p.m. - 5 p.m. ET
As an artist, I know that inspiration often comes from our daily lives. I want to help you get to your best life so you can create your best art. I respect that you have your own inner wisdom and all the resources you need to answer and solve your problems. Empathy is my superpower — especially when working with those experiencing hardship or trying to prioritize their creativity in the midst of suffering. I’m passionate about helping people believe in themselves (again). If you see your creative work as a spiritual practice, you belong here.
SARAH E. BROOKS
Self-publishing * Writing in Motherhood * Marketing & Promotion
Available:
Monday 11 a.m. - 2 p.m. ET
Wednesday - Friday 11 a.m. - 4 p.m. ET
Saturday 3 p.m. - 5 p.m. ET
As a mom of four, I understand the unique challenges of navigating a creative career and motherhood. I believe that each writer’s journey is unique, and my job is to help you discover the resources, strength, and direction you need to make the progress you desire. Drawing on wisdom gained from over a decade as a blogger and my bachelor’s degrees in mass media communications and Christian studies, I’ll help you work through questions you might have about your path as a writer. I am your partner on the creative journey. My goal is to help you discover what will work best for your unique life situation.
STEPHANIE MILLER
Nonfiction Christian Living * Writing Routines * Imposter Syndrome
Available:
Monday 2 p.m. - 4 p.m. ET
Tuesday 10 a.m. - 1 p.m. ET, 2 p.m. - 4 p.m. ET
Wednesday 2 p.m. - 4 p.m. ET
Thursday 10 a.m. - 1 p.m. ET, 2 p.m. - 4 p.m. ET
Friday 2 p.m. - 4 p.m. ET
My mission is to create a safe space for you to process the thoughts, feelings, fears, and dreams you have about your writing life so you can become the writer you’re called to be. I’ll coach you through your own thoughts and observations from a faith-based and cognitive-behavioral perspective. Additionally, as a certified spiritual growth coach, I coach from the mindset of “creative work is spiritual work.” I also use my expertise in psychology to share insights that will facilitate your growth. My goal is to help you grow in your gifting as a writer. I will be your cheerleader and your encourager, and I won’t shy away from asking the tough questions. After all, growth never happens in our comfort zones.>
AMY SEIFFERT
Creative Recovery * Self & Traditional Publishing * Nonfiction Christian Living
Available:
Monday - Thursday 9 a.m. - 3 p.m. ET
Tuesday 6 p.m. - 9 p.m. ET
Friday - Saturday 9 a.m. - 11 a.m. ET
It’s my mission to encourage and empower you to unlock the doors keeping you stuck. My job is simply to ask the questions that help you use the resources you already possess so you can be the CEO of your life and work. I have a bachelor’s degree in English, and I am a traditionally and self-published author. I enjoy meeting people and helping others discover their God-given gifts. Your beliefs and mindsets are powerful, and understanding your patterns, needs, and themes is incredibly valuable in the writing process. The world needs your words, and I would love to join you on your writing journey.
ANNA LLOYD FRANKS
Multimedia Skill Building, Thinking Outside the Book, Project Management
Available:
Monday - Tuesday 5 p.m. - 9 p.m. ET
Thursday 10 a.m. - 9 p.m. ET
Friday 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. ET
I help writers expand their digital skill sets without the overwhelm, keep-up culture, and macho tech-guru vibes. When it comes to your message, you are the most qualified person to shape it in all its forms. Maybe your next project is building your website, producing a new podcast, crafting a course, launching a YouTube channel, or editing your speaker reel. With a decade of experience as a multimedia creative in marketing, I’m uniquely prepared to be your guide. Together, we’ll chart realistic plans, decide what should be DIY’d and what should be hired out, and discover the mediums that empower and inspire you.
DR. APRIL DAWN WHITE
Living with Chronic Illness * Book Proposals * Pitching to Agents & Editors
Available:
Monday 11 a.m. - 4 p.m. ET
Tuesday - Thursday 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. ET
Friday 1 p.m. - 4 p.m. ET
Saturday 10 a.m. - noon ET
Are you ready to kick your inner critic to the curb? As a recovering perfectionist, I know the disapproving tsk-tsk of the inner critic. I’ve named mine pesky Patricia. She mocked me during the four-year journey to publish my first book. But you don’t have to deal with her alone. As your coach, I’ll ask powerful questions and listen intently, allowing you the space to discover your own answers to get unstuck, find clarity, and achieve your creative goals. As a chronic illness warrior, I offer hope for the hurting, and I enjoy working with authors who create amid struggle, illness, or hardship.
CATHY MCINTOSH
Marketing & Promotion * Project Management * Nonfiction Christian Living
Available:
Monday 5 p.m. - 7 p.m. ET
Tuesday noon - 7 p.m. ET
Wednesday 5 p.m. - 7 p.m. ET
Friday 1 p.m. - 7 p.m. ET
Saturday 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. ET
Many writers feel frustrated by the struggle to grow their audience. As a business growth coach, I help you unleash the power of your message and attract more readers. By asking targeted questions, I’ll lead you to connect with the deeper pain points of your audience, cater to their needs, and serve them well. Together, we will tap into your inner strengths so you can convey them to an audience who needs your unique encouragement. You’ll be amazed at the results you’ll see when readers begin to understand exactly how you can help them.
ELISA JOHNSTON
Ideal Reader Discovery * Marketing & Promotion * Idea Development
Available:
Monday 1-5pm ET
Wednesday 1-5, 10pm-11:30pm ET
Thursday 5-9pm ET
Friday 1-5pm ET
Saturday 4-9pm ET
You don’t need a large platform to make an impact. What you say matters, even in your everyday life. Choosing to explore your creative gift is a declaration that you are as important as your audience!
As your coach, I encourage you to tap into your own experience and God-given wisdom. Your feelings and thoughts count in this process just as much as your external goals and actions. My mission is to ask you powerful questions and call out the good in you. We’ll create a safe space for you to be gently challenged and guided to clarify your next steps as a creative communicator.
I’ve self-published workbooks, written for publications, and been a blogger for 17 years. Speaking, interviews, and starting nonprofits has also added to my communications experience. Many “flops,” plus two decades of ministry, being a parent, and coaching changemakers has prepared me to serve you.
I enjoy working with communicators at all stages, but I especially love working with those who are clarifying their message, pivoting direction, or building their platform. I love empowering writers to leverage what they have to make a difference in the world.
ERICA BARTHALOW
Book Proposals * Writing Routines * Nonfiction Christian Living
Available:
Tuesday 9 a.m. - 7 p.m. ET
Thursday 9:00 a.m. - 7 p.m. ET
The purpose of our partnership is to make the world a more creative place by sharing your words with readers so those words can make the impact they were destined to make. I want you to walk away from every coaching session feeling inspired, empowered, and equipped with practical and personal steps to take towards your unique goals and dreams. Using my experience in nonfiction, memoir, and self-publishing, I’ll help you clarify your goals and make progress in your writing life.
LAURA THOMAS
Fiction * Nonfiction Christian Living * Marketing and Promotion
Available:
Monday - Friday 11 a.m. - 11 p.m. ET
The writer’s solitary existence can be fraught with frustration, failure, and fear. If you need help finding the courage to achieve your goals, clarifying your next right step, or defining who you are as a writer, I’m here to be your literary lifeline. Using my experience as a traditionally published, multi-genre Christian author, I’ll encourage and empower you to share your message with confidence. If you need a safe place and an honest guide to help navigate your writing journey with courage, confidence, and clarity — let’s talk coaching!
MOLLY WILCOX
Book Proposals * Creative Recovery * Marketing & Promotion * Nonfiction Christian Living
Available:
Monday - Friday 10:30 a.m. - 5 p.m. ET
Saturday 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. ET
Whether you’re a beginner who struggles to make time for your writing or a seasoned pro looking to reignite the wonder of the craft, I’m here to help. With my formal education in creative writing, experience in traditional and hybrid publishing, and background in marketing, I want to help you get back to the keyboard inspired to give your work the attention and devotion it deserves. Together, we will create consistency and make progress toward your goals while cultivating the courage to continually dream bigger. You are more equipped than you know, and I hope to become an additional resource to accompany you on your writing journey.
PAT FENNER
Nonfiction Christian Living * Evening Availability * Podcasting
Available:
Monday, Tuesday, Thursday 10 a.m. - 1 p.m., 4 p.m. - 7 p.m. ET
Wednesday 1 p.m. - 3 p.m. ET
Change and creativity are not linear, and we don’t always feel able to make the best of it, let alone thrive. Having gone through my own season of mid-life transformation a few years ago, I use this experience to coach “seasoned” women — moms who are exploring personal or professional transitions or writers who want to continue to develop a writing career in this "seasoned season" of life. While my coaching style can benefit writers of any genre, I love encouraging those writing memoirs or other nonfiction. If you’re in need of inspiration, this is your invitation to find it. I would love to be your guide.
ALANE PEARCE
Memoir * Self-publishing * Writing in Your Second Act
Available:
Tuesday - Thursday 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. ET
Friday 11 a.m. - 2 p.m. ET
If you are unaware of your purpose, you may find yourself hesitating, procrastinating, and looking for direction. Using curiosity, understanding, and encouragement, I help creatives find and tap into their purpose and access the internal tools and resources they need to create purpose-driven action. With a background in marketing and writing and over 12 years in the writing and publishing business, I bring the experience of inspirational writing, self-publishing, freelancing, marketing, and project management to our coaching sessions. With me as your coach, you will find hope in your purpose and develop an action plan to honor and accomplish your creative mission.
DEB GRUELLE
Book Proposals * Project Management * Nonfiction Christian Living
Available:
Wednesday - Thursday 9 a.m. - 8 p.m. ET
Are you ready to create a book proposal? Expand your income? I’m passionate about helping you clarify your strengths and overcome obstacles so you can take the next step toward aligning your current writing life with your dream destination. I offer a sensitive approach that includes listening to your inner wisdom as we uncover the path that will lead you to your writing vision. As a bestselling and award-winning author of four traditionally-published books, I bring over 27 years of experience as a Christian author to every session. I would love to be your guide and support you on your next writing project.
KATHY IZARD
Memoir * Self-publishing * Writing in Your Second Act
Available:
Monday - Thursday 8 a.m. - 2 p.m., 3 p.m. - 6 p.m. ET
Friday 8 a.m. - noon ET
Sunday 3 p.m. - 6 p.m. ET
Sometimes, the most difficult step in the writing process is believing you have a story worth telling. I help you believe in your story and overcome overwhelm so you can get your words out into the world. I am a published author who has written for adults and children, with experience ranging from finishing a manuscript to obtaining a book contract to marketing an ebook, audiobook, and trade paperback. As your coach, I’ll help you navigate your next writing and publishing project. When you find the courage to write and tell your stories, you can inspire, heal, and transform others and yourself.
KELDA LAING POYNOT
Fiction * Self-publishing * Story Crafting
Available:
Monday 8 a.m. - 9 a.m., 7 p.m. - 10 p.m. ET
Tuesday 8 a.m - 9 a.m., 8 p.m. - 10 p.m. ET
Wednesday 8 a.m. - 10 a.m. ET
Thursday 8 a.m. - 9 a.m. ET
Friday 8 a.m. - noon, 3 p.m. - 5 p.m. ET
Saturday 9 a.m. - noon ET
Change ultimately happens when you’re uncomfortable and motivated to move. But change doesn’t happen all at once — it comes in steps and stages. With my background in education and counseling, as well as my experience with self-publishing and adapting a manuscript to a screenplay, I enjoy working with creatives on big projects that have the power to overwhelm but also make a big impact. As your coach, I’ll help you focus your efforts, set attainable goals, and make the changes you want to make so you can enjoy a meaningful and stable writing life.
KERRI JETER
Perfecting Your Proposal & Pitch * Storytelling Mastery * Empowering Women Writers
Available:
Monday, Wednesday, Friday 4 p.m. - 7 p.m. ET
Helping women unlock their stories is my superpower. As your writing coach, I am committed to emboldening you, revealing your strengths, guiding you through your vulnerabilities, and helping you capture the heart of your experiences in your writing or other creative expressions. You have greatness within you. As a writer, you’ve chosen to unlock that greatness with your words. It is my honor to come alongside women like you, who have found the courage to share that greatness through their writing.
NIKI HARDY
Book Proposals * Pitching to Agents & Editors * Marketing & Promotions
Available:
Monday - Wednesday 9 a.m. - 6:30 p.m. ET
Thursday 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. ET
Friday 9 a.m. - 3 p.m. ET
The writing and online world can seem overwhelming, intimidating, and impenetrable. But there’s no secret formula or hidden gatekeeper to achieving your writing dreams. Whether you know it or not, you have what it takes to find the clarity and confidence required to make the writing progress you long for. After over 25 years of experience in the coaching, pastoring, marketing, and publishing industries, I have the experience needed to help you get unstuck, find clarity, and achieve your goals. I believe we are the gatekeepers to our own success. Let’s open the gate together.
SHARON HUGHSON
Story Crafting * Writing in Your Second Act * Idea Development
Available:
Tuesday - Friday 4 p.m. - 8 p.m. ET
Saturday Available by special request
Writing is solitary work, but an impartial companion who understands the unique challenges of writing a book can guide you to the finish line. Every writer faces obstacles. I believe your story is inside your heart and mind. Our sessions help you mine that genius and get it on the page.
If you’re struggling to finish your story or wonder if it’s ready to ship, my insightful questioning and deep listening can power through those doubts.
Story coaching helps:
- Develop your unique writing process; one you can duplicate to write the next book.
- Discover the reason you write or why you might be stuck.
- Talk through problems in your story.
- Find and plug plot holes.
Not sure which writing stage you're in? Take our quiz to find out!
If you have more questions about coaching, reach out to us at [email protected].