2019 UW Writers’ Institute conference recap

The annual UW Writers’ Institute conference took place this past weekend.

The conference opened with moving, beautiful readings from participants of the UW Odyssey Project.

There were great keynote speakers like Jane Friedman and Jennie Nash, and one of the most talented, supportive networks of authors I’ve ever met. We learned about everything from creating a podcast to improving our websites and much, much more. This was my fourth time attending this conference and I’ve published over twenty books, but I still walk away with tons of new ideas and inspiration. Not to mention, this industry changes so quickly that it’s impossible to ever know it all.

Proud to be included in the success panel along with Kristine Hansen, Bibi Belford, Rita Schunk, Greg Renz, Heather Shumaker, Kristine Ziegler, rr campbell, and Julie Holmes. Photo by Kristin Oakley.

Chatting and sharing a drink with other authors

Rachel Werner talks social media

Ann Garvin, Kristin Oakley, and Shannon Henry Kleiber talk about author festivals and readings.

Rex Owens, Christine Keleny, and Libby Fischer Hellman talk about different kinds of publishing with Jim Papandrea moderating the discussion.

Celeste Anton of Dandelion Marketing talks website design to a packed room.

Anne Keller and Jeanne Gomoll show off their books Empty Chairs (cover illustrated by Gomoll) and Space Babe coloring book.

Kira Henschel of HenschelHAUS Publishing and author and Meg Goss

Thriller writer Tracey Phillips and me

This graphic comes from Jane Friedman‘s keynote speech.

Jane Friedman‘s master class on the ins and outs of publishing was fascinating.

“Not Walking Away’ socks from Jennie Nash

Keynote speaker Jennie Nash

Crystal, Jess Witkins, and Celeste Anton

Me, Kristine Hansen (author of Wisconsin Cheese Cookbook), and Bibi Belford (author of The Gift and other titles)

Showing off our books: Me, Bibi Belford, Rita Schunk, Greg Renz, Kristine Ziegler, and Julie Holmes

Tricia Wagner (author of Where Fish Can Breathe) and me

Margaret Goss and Kristin Oakley show off their books The Uncommitted and Carpe Diem, Illinois.