I'm also a Social Worker, and someone who loves writing so hearing those two worlds collide was pretty cool. Never really thought about trauma informed practice when it comes to memoir writing but it makes a lot of sense.
In the spirit of Anne of Green Gables, I have found a kindred spirit. As a current journal writing coach and a book coach in-training, the energy Heather brings to her coaching is so inspiring.
A writer’s mindset really is as important as the craft. If we can’t work through the blank page, our inner critic, or trauma - the story isn’t a full rendering of what is etched on our heart.
I adore the idea of cheating on your story. I’ve had a story that requires distance at times. That’s how my substack was born.
There are so many nuggets of golden information. Thank you for sharing both of your expertise.
LOVED this interview so much! Early on, I worked with a writing coach who I credit with giving me the courage to trust myself enough to give writing a go. Without her, my novel would never have been birthed into the world.
Working with great editors (obviously) has its place--but working with someone who cares about you (which is different from caring about the commerciality of your book)--is key.
The part about trauma and writing--even when you are writing fiction--is also important. In the denouement chapter of my novel, one of my favorite characters gets executed. (Which is akin to killing a part of yourself.) After writing that chapter -I couldn't get out of bed for over a week. So the trauma is real...
Finally--here's how I remember the pronunciation of the Hungarian psychologist Mihaly Csikzentmihalyi is "Me High Cheek Sent Me High." (It took me about a decade to get that one right.)
Haha - that pronunciation gets me every time. I’ve got it in my head, but as soon as I try and speak it - forget it! Poor man. Thank you so much for your close listen and for sharing about your own experiences here. It’s does my heart good when writers share with one another what works for them, what lands, what helps. It’s how we do this thing in community, even when we’re alone at our desks.
I loved this episode! I'm a writer's coach, and Heather's explanation of the work we do and the difference between a coach and an editor was spot-on. I was happy to hear the level of care and professionalism she brings to her clients. The whole time on my walk to the library, I was nodding and saying YES!
I came to this via work coach training 25 years ago. (!!) Right away I decided to focus on helping artists and writers find their way through the process. I have written and published my own books, and I am certain I wouldn't have been able to do it without my coaching skills.
Writing books alongside my clients is important to me. I don't want to be on the sidelines with old stories of how hard it was when I did it way back when. They appreciate knowing that I am in the work with them.
Thank you for this great interview. I learned some things from Heather's experience and am even inspired to return to a stillness practice.
How wonderful that your coaching work also reflects this kind of experience, Cynthia! I love that about this community--how we all come to this career from different paths and then dovetail together. It's so lovely to have you and your wisdom to share with other writers, too. Thank you for doing what you do.
Thank you, Evelyn! I have been enjoying your podcast, and I often share episodes with clients. It's fun when you are discussing something my clients are going through. Sharing with them helps normalize the challenges.
I am blessed by the goddess to be able to call Heather one of my besties. Highly recommend you also check out the treasure trove that is her blog (pre-Substack but evergreen!) She also has a ton of free or PWYC resources, yummy workbooks and courses/online retreats and such. I'm so psyched to see her work reaching more writers, thank you, Evelyn!
I'm also a Social Worker, and someone who loves writing so hearing those two worlds collide was pretty cool. Never really thought about trauma informed practice when it comes to memoir writing but it makes a lot of sense.
LOVED THIS INTERVIEW! I want to show up for my writing audaciously this year ❤️
Audacious! YES!!!! That is a word to carry you through 2025, for sure!
This is an absolutely fantastic interview and uplifting conversation. Heather is truly a shining star and compassionate coach. Highly recommended ❤️
In the spirit of Anne of Green Gables, I have found a kindred spirit. As a current journal writing coach and a book coach in-training, the energy Heather brings to her coaching is so inspiring.
A writer’s mindset really is as important as the craft. If we can’t work through the blank page, our inner critic, or trauma - the story isn’t a full rendering of what is etched on our heart.
I adore the idea of cheating on your story. I’ve had a story that requires distance at times. That’s how my substack was born.
There are so many nuggets of golden information. Thank you for sharing both of your expertise.
Thank you, Karen! Really lovely getting to know you more through the comments and hearing about your work!
Thank you for such a great podcast. It made my walk in 20degree weather bearable.
LOVED this interview so much! Early on, I worked with a writing coach who I credit with giving me the courage to trust myself enough to give writing a go. Without her, my novel would never have been birthed into the world.
Working with great editors (obviously) has its place--but working with someone who cares about you (which is different from caring about the commerciality of your book)--is key.
The part about trauma and writing--even when you are writing fiction--is also important. In the denouement chapter of my novel, one of my favorite characters gets executed. (Which is akin to killing a part of yourself.) After writing that chapter -I couldn't get out of bed for over a week. So the trauma is real...
Finally--here's how I remember the pronunciation of the Hungarian psychologist Mihaly Csikzentmihalyi is "Me High Cheek Sent Me High." (It took me about a decade to get that one right.)
Haha - that pronunciation gets me every time. I’ve got it in my head, but as soon as I try and speak it - forget it! Poor man. Thank you so much for your close listen and for sharing about your own experiences here. It’s does my heart good when writers share with one another what works for them, what lands, what helps. It’s how we do this thing in community, even when we’re alone at our desks.
I loved this episode! I'm a writer's coach, and Heather's explanation of the work we do and the difference between a coach and an editor was spot-on. I was happy to hear the level of care and professionalism she brings to her clients. The whole time on my walk to the library, I was nodding and saying YES!
I came to this via work coach training 25 years ago. (!!) Right away I decided to focus on helping artists and writers find their way through the process. I have written and published my own books, and I am certain I wouldn't have been able to do it without my coaching skills.
Writing books alongside my clients is important to me. I don't want to be on the sidelines with old stories of how hard it was when I did it way back when. They appreciate knowing that I am in the work with them.
Thank you for this great interview. I learned some things from Heather's experience and am even inspired to return to a stillness practice.
How wonderful that your coaching work also reflects this kind of experience, Cynthia! I love that about this community--how we all come to this career from different paths and then dovetail together. It's so lovely to have you and your wisdom to share with other writers, too. Thank you for doing what you do.
Thank you, Evelyn! I have been enjoying your podcast, and I often share episodes with clients. It's fun when you are discussing something my clients are going through. Sharing with them helps normalize the challenges.
Loved this interview. I felt so seen and heard as she spoke.
Thank you Evelyn for asking my question!!
I’m really happy to hear that this connected with you, Tammy. And you’re welcome—it was a great question!
I am blessed by the goddess to be able to call Heather one of my besties. Highly recommend you also check out the treasure trove that is her blog (pre-Substack but evergreen!) She also has a ton of free or PWYC resources, yummy workbooks and courses/online retreats and such. I'm so psyched to see her work reaching more writers, thank you, Evelyn!