No writer exists in isolation. They and their stories are part of a greater conversation about them and their work, and they must be given safe spaces to explore themselves and their work. Therefore, whether it’s through facilitating group coaching programs or working with clients one-on-one, I will provide safe, communal spaces for them.

As a Secular Buddhist, I understand that I must have compassion for myself and others during all stages of the writing process. I also know that everyone is on their own path to enlightenment, and the greatest gift that I can give to the writers is the autonomy and self-direction to find their own voice and tell their own stories.

Human beings are creators. We are tellers of tales, masters of crafts, and breakers of chains. We are so much more than cogs in capitalist and corporate machines, and we deserve to express ourselves fully in any way, shape, or form that our stories take. Similarly, our work deserves to meet its own needs rather than only someone else’s bottom line.

Creative writing education that is equitable and empowering starts with nurturing a health curiosity for other perspectives. For example, storytelling modes and practices outside of Western ideological frameworks don’t get as much attention in academia and the publishing industry, but they are just as valid and worthy of attention in writing practice.