Write with Fellow Storytellers
Writing doesn't have to be a solitary endeavor. Unless specified, all workshops and retreats are open to writers working in any form or genre.  Show up and surprise yourself!Â
Writer's Nest Write-ins
 My Writer's Nest Write-ins are open to writers working in all forms and genres. They're meant to stoke your creativity, unleash your imagination, and help you develop your unique voice. As a certified Amherst Writers and Artists workshop facilitator, I use the AWA method, which prioritizes inclusion, respect, and encouragement. We write to a variety of prompts, and, if we choose, we read our work aloud. Participants are invited to comment only on what is strong and memorable. This creates a safe space where participants can experiment, take risks, and grow as writers.
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The Stories that Haunt Us
Tuesday, Oct. 21 from 6:30 - 8:00 p.m. Eastern Time
Online via Zoom
$20.00
Some stories won’t let go. Maybe they're real, or maybe they lurk at the edges of our imagination, but they're there, and we'd better pay attention to them if we know what's good for us! In this workshop, we’ll write to prompts meant to unearth the stories (real or imagined) that rattle our bones. Come ready to write, laugh, and sharpen your storytelling skills.
Reserve My Spot
Harvesting Stories
Thursday, Nov. 11 from 7:00 - 8:30 p.m. Eastern Time
Online via Zoom
$20.00
Let's honor the stories that root us: the voices of family, ancestors, mentors and colleagues that still echo in our lives. You’ll be encouraged through prompts to recall the people and moments that made a difference in your lives and the legacy you might leave through your own storytelling. Â
Reserve My Spot
"I recently participated in Barbara Leary's writing workshop and thoroughly enjoyed breaking out of my comfort zone to try my hand at creative writing. I have never considered myself a creative writer, so I was a bit self-conscious about my ability to create interesting and engaging pieces. But Barbara's encouragement gave me a confidence boost, and the spirited and thought-provoking discussions from my fellow workshop attendees motivated me to be more diligent about nurturing my creative juices! I highly recommend Barbara's workshop to anyone looking to enhance their writing or simply enjoy a safe space free of judgment for authentic creative expression."
-Wendi Mueller
“I loved every minute of the workshop with Barbara — my only regret is the hour flew by too quickly! Barbara moderated it deftly and made it a safe and creative space for strangers to connect, push each other, and grow together as writers. I’m now hooked on AWA workshops and look forward to joining more in the future.”
-Ann Biondi