The Writer's Journey with Laura Davis Podcast

Each week, Laura pairs a beautiful image with a poem—a little something for your heart and nervous system every Wednesday.Today's featured poem is Don’t Hesitate by Mary Oliver.Mary Oliver was a beloved American poet who won the Pulitzer Prize and the National Book Award. Her poetry is known for its focus on nature, vivid imagery, and unadorned language. She found inspiration in the natural world and was known for her solitary walks in the wild. Don't Hesitate can be found in Devotions: The Selected Poems of Mary Oliver.You can find information about Laura’s writing classes, workshops, and international retreats at: https://lauradavis.net/Subscribe to The Writer's Journey with Laura Davis on Substack to receive beautifully curated poems, essays about life and writing, writing tips, and photographs to build courage, resilience and creativity.You can subscribe here: https://laurasaridavis.substack.com This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit laurasaridavis.substack.com/subscribe

You're Invited on a Virtual Vacation to Bali:Ready for a free virtual vacation to Bali? Join Laura Davis as she invites you along on her 10th sacred journey to this spiritual island. Experience temple ceremonies, meet traditional healers, and immerse in Balinese culture through her Substack posts and Notes. It's the next best thing to being there!Plus: discover her handpicked July Substack recommendations as a bonus.Laura's Five Substack Recommendations for JulyThe Feral Stack by Summer Koester: Cultural commentary for curious misfits @summerisferal, The Feral StackForager Field Notes by Michelle Dowd: Healing through creativity for cult survivors@mdowd, Forager Field NotesEveryday Ambassador by Annelise Riles: Global change through local action @Anneliseriles, Everyday AmbassadorFor the Love of Nature by Sue Kusch: Essays on place and natural connection @SueKusch. For the Love of NatureThe American Pamphleteer: Truth-telling for rebels and resistersExclusive Writing Workshop Opportunities @ladylibertie1, The American PamphleteerUpcoming Memoir Workshops with LauraIn-Person Intensive Workshop:Title: "The Art of Memoir: Crafting Compelling, Vivid, True Life Stories"Location: Villa Maria del Mar, Santa Cruz, CaliforniaDates: November 3-7, 2025 (5-day retreat)What You'll Learn: Inner voice connection, healing through language, "story beneath the story" techniquesRegistration Link: https://lauradavis.net/memoir-retreat-santa-cruz-november-2025More Info: https://lauradavis.net/workshopsOnline Masterclass:Title: "How to Write About What You Can't Remember"Format: 5-week interactive Zoom course with private Substack classroomSchedule: Tuesdays, September 30 - October 28, 2025Time: 12:00-2:30 PM ET / 9:00-11:30 AM PTUnique Feature: Community feedback system via private SubstackRegistration Link: https://lauradavis.net/online-memoir-course-fall-2025Course Details: https://lauradavis.net/memory-memoir-workshopYou can find information about Laura’s writing classes, workshops, and international retreats at: https://lauradavis.net/ Subscribe to The Writer's Journey with Laura Davis on Substack to receive regular posts like these, as well as beautifully curated poems, essays, and photographs to build courage, resilience and creativity.You can subscribe here: https://laurasaridavis.substack.com This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit laurasaridavis.substack.com/subscribe

Each week, Laura pairs a beautiful image with a poem—a little something for your heart and nervous system every Wednesday. Today's featured poem: At Albany Bulb with Elaine by Alison Luterman.Alison Luterman is a poet, essayist and playwright. Her books include the poetry collections In the Time of Great Fires (Catamaran Press), Desire Zoo (Tia Chucha Press), The Largest Possible Life (Cleveland State University Press) See How We Almost Fly (Pearl Editions), and a collection of essays, Feral City (SheBooks). Luterman's plays include Saying Kaddish With My Sister, Hot Water, Glitter and Spew, Oasis, Touched, and the musicals, The Chain (with composer Loren Linnard), The Shyest Witch (with composer Richard Jennings, and song cycle We Are Not Afraid of the Dark (with composer Sheela Ramesh). You can find her at: https://www.alisonluterman.net/ You can find information about Laura’s writing classes, workshops, and international retreats at: https://lauradavis.net/Subscribe to The Writer's Journey with Laura Davis on Substack to receive beautifully curated poems, essays about life and writing, writing tips, and photographs to build courage, resilience and creativity.You can subscribe here: https://laurasaridavis.substack.com This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit laurasaridavis.substack.com/subscribe

Each week, Laura pairs a beautiful image with a poem—a little something for your heart and nervous system every Wednesday.Today's featured poem: For Citizenship by John O’Donohue. John O'Donohue (1956-2008) was an Irish poet, philosopher, and former Catholic priest known for his writings on spirituality, beauty, and friendship. This poem is from his book, To Bless the Space Between Us: A Book of Blessings.You can find information about Laura’s writing classes, workshops, and international retreats at: https://lauradavis.net/Subscribe to The Writer's Journey with Laura Davis on Substack to receive beautifully curated poems, essays about life and writing, writing tips, and photographs to build courage, resilience and creativity.You can subscribe here: https://laurasaridavis.substack.com This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit laurasaridavis.substack.com/subscribe

Each month, Laura feature the work of one of her writing students and then deconstructs what made the piece work. This month’s featured writer is Michaela Sieh.You can find information about Laura’s writing classes, workshops, and international retreats at: https://lauradavis.net/ Subscribe to The Writer's Journey with Laura Davis on Substack to receive regular posts like these, as well as beautifully curated poems, essays, and photographs to build courage, resilience and creativity.You can subscribe here: https://laurasaridavis.substack.com This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit laurasaridavis.substack.com/subscribe

Each week, Laura pairs a beautiful image with a poem—a little something for your heart and nervous system every Wednesday.Today's featured poem: For When People Ask by Rosemerry Wahtola Trommer.Dedicated to helping others explore creative practice, Rosemerry Wahtola Trommer is an American poet, associated with Colorado. She was Poet Laureate of San Miguel County, Colorado from 2006–2010, and was named Poet Laureate of Colorado's Western Slope by the Telluride Institute from 2015–2017. You can subscribe to Rosemerry’s daily poems here.You can find information about Laura’s writing classes, workshops, and international retreats at: https://lauradavis.net/Subscribe to The Writer's Journey with Laura Davis on Substack to receive beautifully curated poems, essays about life and writing, writing tips, and photographs to build courage, resilience and creativity.You can subscribe here: https://laurasaridavis.substack.com This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit laurasaridavis.substack.com/subscribe

Episode Title:"Laura Davis: From Premature Birth to Author - A Journey of Survival, Creativity, and Finding Awe"Episode Description:In this deeply moving interview from Kathryn Mockler's "I've Been Meaning to Ask You" series, bestselling author Laura Davis shares her profound journey that began with a dramatic premature birth weighing just 2 pounds, 12 ounces, separated from her identical twin sister.This conversation reveals how early trauma shaped a life dedicated to creativity, spiritual growth, and helping others find their voices through writing retreats in Bali and beyond.Key Topics Covered:Surviving Against Odds: Laura's dramatic start - born decades before 2-pound premature babies regularly survivedCreative Upbringing: Growing up in a home filled with music, theater, and artistic expressionSpiritual Transformation: How early separation led to a lifelong search for connection and aweWriting as Healing: The therapeutic power of storytelling and creative expressionGlobal Writing Retreats: Leading transformative cultural adventures for writersFinding Purpose: How childhood trauma became the foundation for helping othersGuest Background:Laura Davis, author of "The Burning Light of Two Stars" memoir, international writing retreat leader, and advocate for creative expression as healing. Currently leading her 10th writing retreat to Bali, focusing on sacred creativity and spiritual transformation. Laura is sharing this interview in her newsletter as a guest post from Kathryn Mockler's series.Episode Themes:Resilience and survivalThe healing power of creativitySpiritual awakening through natureFamily bonds and chosen familySocial justice and compassionTravel as transformationThe Healing Heart of Bali: A Writer's Journey of Renewal for Body, Mind, and Spirit"I take writers around the world on cultural adventures that spark awe, creativity and deep relaxation. In August, I’m bringing a group to Bali to study Balinese spirituality and meet with Balinese healers. We’ll be exploring three diverse “back roads” areas of Bali, meeting with artisans, hiking through coffee and clove plantations, experiencing the transformation that occurs when immersing in a culture that celebrates sacred creativity. And of course, we’ll be writing every day—writing together creates an intimate traveling community and gives people the opportunity to digest and integrate their experiences. This is my tenth time taking writers to Bali—obviously I feel a deep affinity for the stunning beauty and spiritual power of that island and its people."There is one final spot left on this trip.You can learn more here: https://lauradavis.net/bali/About the interviewer, Kathryn Mockler:Kathryn Mockler is a writer, screenwriter, experimental filmmaker, editor, and publisher and the author of the story collection Anecdotes (Book*hug Press, 2023), which won the 2024 Victoria Butler Book Prize and was a finalist for the 2024 Trillium Book Award, 2023 Danuta Gleed Literary Award, 2024 Fred Kerner Award, and 2024 VMI Besty Warland Between Genres Award. She co-edited the print anthology Watch Your Head: Writers and Artists Respond to the Climate Crisis (Coach House Books, 2020). Her films have screened at TIFF, EMFA, the Palm Springs Film Festival and most recently at the Arizona Underground Film Festival and REELPoetry/HoustonTX. She runs the literary newsletter Send My Love to Anyone and teaches screenwriting and fiction in the Writing Department at the University of Victoria.LAURA DAVIS’ WRITING CLASSES AND RETREATS:You can find information about Laura’s writing classes, workshops, and international retreats at: https://lauradavis.net/ Subscribe to The Writer's Journey with Laura Davis on Substack to receive regular posts like these, as well as beautifully curated poems, essays, and photographs to build courage, resilience and creativity.You can subscribe here: https://laurasaridavis.substack.com This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit laurasaridavis.substack.com/subscribe

Each week, Laura pairs a beautiful image with a poem—a little something for your heart and nervous system every Wednesday.Today's featured poem: First Reaction by Danna Faulds.A long-term practitioner of Kripalu Yoga, Danna Faulds is the author of seven books of poetry: Go In and In, One Soul, Prayers to the Infinite, From Root to Bloom, Breath of Joy, and What's True Here, as well as the memoir Into the Heart of Yoga. You can find her at her website.You can find information about Laura’s writing classes, workshops, and international retreats at: https://lauradavis.net/Subscribe to The Writer's Journey with Laura Davis on Substack to receive beautifully curated poems, essays about life and writing, writing tips, and photographs to build courage, resilience and creativity.You can subscribe here: https://laurasaridavis.substack.com This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit laurasaridavis.substack.com/subscribe

In this episode, Laura shares how to transform your mindset in today's chaotic world through this powerful writing exercise. Explore what happens when you prioritize love over fear in just 15 minutes of writing.You can find information about Laura’s writing classes, workshops, and international retreats at: https://lauradavis.net/Subscribe to The Writer's Journey with Laura Davis on Substack to receive regular posts like these, as well as beautifully curated poems, essays, and photographs to build courage, resilience and creativity.You can subscribe here: https://laurasaridavis.substack.com This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit laurasaridavis.substack.com/subscribe

Each week, Laura pairs a beautiful image with a poem—a little something for your heart and nervous system every Wednesday.Today's featured poem: Continue by Maya Angelou.A multitalented writer and performer, Maya Angelou is best known for her work as an author and poet. Her 1969 memoir, I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings, made literary history as the first nonfiction bestseller by a Black woman. Some of her famous poems include “Phenomenal Woman,” “Still I Rise,” and “On the Pulse of Morning,” which she recited at President Bill Clinton’s inauguration in 1993 and which earned her a Grammy Award. Angelou enjoyed a career as a Tony- and Emmy-nominated actor and singer in plays, musicals, and onscreen. In her work as a civil rights activist, she collaborated with Martin Luther King Jr. and Malcolm X, among others. The Presidential Medal of Freedom recipient died in May 2014 at age 86.You can find information about Laura’s writing classes, workshops, and international retreats at: https://lauradavis.net/Subscribe to The Writer's Journey with Laura Davis on Substack to receive beautifully curated poems, essays about life and writing, writing tips, and photographs to build courage, resilience and creativity.You can subscribe here: https://laurasaridavis.substack.com This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit laurasaridavis.substack.com/subscribe

Episode Title: My Love Affair with the Human Voice: Where Words Meet SoulEpisode SummaryA captivating story about discovering the power of voice and storytelling that takes unexpected turns through remote adventures, creative risks, and life-changing decisions. This intimate narrative explores how a young woman's passion for radio and human connection shaped her journey as a writer and interviewer, leading to profound personal discoveries and creative breakthroughs.Subscribe to Laura's new The Writer's Journey podcast:Subscribe to The Writer's Journey podcast on your preferred platform to hear more stories about writing, creativity, and the transformative power of storytelling. Available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, and Substack.Link for spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/5pzSIKx6nXONCVq7iLLm85Link for apple - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-writers-journey-with-laura-davis-podcast/id1818171475Link for YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLXqh6Uxj-mVl44gIaLxQEZNJAz_zl0nBt This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit laurasaridavis.substack.com/subscribe

Each week, Laura pairs a beautiful image with a poem—a little something for your heart and nervous system every Wednesday.Today's feature: poem in which I choose a bundle of kale next to a stranger by Maya Stein. Maya Stein has been a freelance writer and editor for more than two decades. She began a weekly poetry practice in 2005—10-line Tuesday —and you can subscribe to her weekly poems and learn about her marvelous books of poetry here. Maya also teaches marvelous writing classes.You can find information about Laura’s writing classes, workshops, and international retreats at: https://lauradavis.net/Subscribe to The Writer's Journey with Laura Davis on Substack to receive beautifully curated poems, essays about life and writing, writing tips, and photographs to build courage, resilience and creativity.You can subscribe here: https://laurasaridavis.substack.com This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit laurasaridavis.substack.com/subscribe

Laura's Substack Recommendations for June 2025:@aimeeliu, MFA Lore. Aimee Liu offers her audience the invaluable, precious gift of her knowledge and experience as a veteran novelist, ghostwriter and graduate-level creative writing teacher. Her bestselling novels, informed by her Asian American heritage, have been published in more than a dozen languages, and she has written for the Los Angeles Times, The Los Angeles Review of Books and Poets and Writers, among many others. She distills the essential elements of a creative writing MFA in her articles, interviews and feedback services. MFA Lore is a must-read for aspiring authors to learn and be inspired by Liu’s insightful wisdom.@renpowell, Dramatic Roots. Ren Powell is a playwright and theater teacher whose work has been translated into eight languages. Her plays have been performed in the United States, Canada and Norway, where she now resides and teaches. She is also the author of six poetry collections. In Dramatic Roots, she explores being human through the creative process of writing, poetry and performance. Ren’s writing exercises help readers to find the physicality of language, peeling back description, revealing sensation and meaning. She offers readers a place to connect to the natural world, the self, to memory, and the human need to belong.@jessyeaston, AFTER/WORDS. Jessy Easton’s writing will leave you breathless. Her story of a childhood filled with meth, incarcerated parents, addiction, chaos and love, always rivets me to the page. Jessy writes what most would be afraid to say, and in facing the past plainly and with compassion, she teaches us how to write our way into a new future. Her essays and her serialized memoir, The One Who Leaves, are searing and unabashed, a clarion call for anyone who wants to face a painful past and create something new from the ashes. There is so much to discover and savor in the After/Words.@ronamaynard, Amazement Seeker. Full of wonder, joy and a lifetime’s worth of well-earned wisdom, Rona’s weekly posts are something I look forward to every Sunday. In a world that often feels disconnected and under threat, Rona’s writing grounds me, moves me, and reminds me to savor the beauty of life and its simple moments. As a lover of the art of writing and a well-turned phrase, Rona’s prose never disappoints. A master storyteller, she always makes every word count. An accomplished author of two memoirs, many articles, and former editor of Chatelaine, Rona’s stories always draw me in. Each week as I settle down to read her post, I never know what she’ll write about and am always eager to find out. Her contemplations of little things and big themes, whatever amazes her, always fills me with quiet, appreciative joy.My highlighted news source for the month:@thelefthook, The Left Hook. Wajahat Ali offers hot takes on politics and culture in this unapologetic haven for progressives and anti-fascists, with a good dose of humor and snark. A former commentator for CNN and writer for the New York Times, Waj has freed himself from the censorship of corporate media and writes frankly about everything from rising authoritarianism and pop culture to parenting and Legos. I especially love his live interviews and discussions—conversations you won’t hear anywhere else. The Left Hook is a vital compassionate community for those seeking to speak the truth freely and intentionally, with laughter, empathy, and no holds barred.Now here’s the recipe.I’ve been making this chicken dish for at least twenty years and every time I serve it, people want the recipe. It’s similar to Chicken Marbella, but not quite the same. I often double the recipe. It stores well and tastes better the second day—and the third, if it lasts that long.P.S. If you need precision in your recipes, you’re out of luck. I’m not a cookbook writer, but I love to cook, and everyone I’ve given this recipe to has done well with it.Laura’s Puerto Rican ChickenIngredients:Olive oilApple cider vinegarLots of black pepper, oregano and fresh garlic (a bag of peeled garlic would be great)4 pounds of skinless, boneless chicken thighs3 medium-2 large onions, diced2 medium-large green peppers, diced1 jar capers, drained of juice1 small or half a tall jar of green olives (I think the ones I bought were stuffed with garlic...definitely pitted)20-30 pitted prunes, depending on size4 TBL tomato paste1 bunch freshly chopped cilantro2 bay leaves1 quart organic chicken broth3-4 cups of white basmati riceMarinate chicken in a pot, covered with lots of olive oil, apple cider vinegar, black pepper, oregano and garlic. Tons of garlic. I don’t know exact amounts, but a lot more olive oil than the apple cider vinegar. 5:1 is my guess.Marinate for at least an hour, or overnight. The longer the better. I aim for overnight, but it still tastes great if I run out of time and it doesn’t marinate that long.Brown chicken on all sides in olive oil (after taking it out of the marinade). You’ll need to do this

Each week, Laura pairs a beautiful image with a poem—a little something for your heart and nervous system every Wednesday.Today's featured poem: "Hold Out Your Hand" by Julia Fehrenbacher.Julia Fehrenbacher is a poet, an author, a life coach, a teacher, a regular practicer of yoga, and a sometimes-painter. She is most at home by the ocean and in the forests. You can find her at her website.You can find information about Laura’s writing classes, workshops, and international retreats at: https://lauradavis.net/Subscribe to The Writer's Journey with Laura Davis on Substack to receive beautifully curated poems, essays about life and writing, writing tips, and photographs to build courage, resilience and creativity.You can subscribe here: https://laurasaridavis.substack.com This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit laurasaridavis.substack.com/subscribe

Midweek Pause for Peace: a little something for your heart and nervous system every Wednesday.Today's featured poem: The Hardest Days by Clint Smith.Clint Smith is a teacher, poet, and doctoral candidate in Education at Harvard University. He is a National Poetry Slam champion, an Individual World Poetry Slam finalist, and has served a cultural ambassador for the US Department of State. He has been featured on TED.com, NBC News, and TVOne’s Verses and Flow. His poetry has been published or is forthcoming in GRAVTAS, Off the Coast, and elsewhere.You can find information about Laura’s writing classes, workshops, and international retreats at: https://lauradavis.net/Subscribe to The Writer's Journey with Laura Davis on Substack to receive beautifully curated poems, essays about life and writing, writing tips, and photographs to build courage, resilience and creativity.You can subscribe here: https://laurasaridavis.substack.com This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit laurasaridavis.substack.com/subscribe

In this week's episode, Laura Davis explores her journey to discover the essence of her business, what she really has to offer people--and has been offering people for the last forty years. You can find information about Laura's writing classes, workshops and retreats at: https://lauradavis.net/Subscribe to The Writer's Journey with Laura Davis on Substack to receive regular posts like these, as well as beautifully curated poems, essays, and photographs to build courage, resilience and creativity.You can subscribe here: https://laurasaridavis.substack.com This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit laurasaridavis.substack.com/subscribe

This is the start of a new feature on my Substack: Midweek Pause for Peace. I’ll pair a beautiful image with a poem—a little something for your heart and your nervous system.—LauraSometimes it feels like there’s nothing we can do, but we can always send love. This poem by Carrie Newcomer is a great demonstration of that.Carrie Newcomer is a songwriter, poet & podcast co-host with 19 nationally released CDs and 3 books of poetry. She often catches something luminous from the corner of her eye, chuckles at things no one is noticing & lives in the woods with 2 rescue dogs. Learn more and support her work at carrienewcomer.substack.com.If you'd like to regularly receive Laura's posts and poems, you can subscribe to her Substack: https://laurasaridavis.substack.com/ This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit laurasaridavis.substack.com/subscribe

In this episode, Laura explores when chaos and uncertainty feel overwhelming and how identifying what remains constant offers refuge. Discover a powerful writing prompt that helps restore perspective in stressful times.You can find information about Laura’s writing classes, workshops, and international retreats at: https://lauradavis.net/Subscribe to The Writer's Journey with Laura Davis on Substack to receive regular posts like these, as well as beautifully curated poems, essays, and photographs to build courage, resilience and creativity.You can subscribe here: https://laurasaridavis.substack.com This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit laurasaridavis.substack.com/subscribe

In this episode, Laura explores a powerful meditation on balancing awareness of painful truths with seeking beauty in times of global crisis, ending with a reflective writing prompt for readers.You can find information about Laura’s writing classes, workshops, and international retreats at: https://lauradavis.net/Subscribe to The Writer's Journey with Laura Davis on Substack to receive regular posts like these, as well as beautifully curated poems, essays, and photographs to build courage, resilience and creativity.You can subscribe here: https://laurasaridavis.substack.com This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit laurasaridavis.substack.com/subscribe

In this episode Laura confronts unexpected fears while renewing her passport in a changed America, concluding with reflective writing prompts for readers.You can find information about Laura’s writing classes, workshops, and international retreats at: https://lauradavis.net/Subscribe to The Writer's Journey with Laura Davis on Substack to receive regular posts like these, as well as beautifully curated poems, essays, and photographs to build courage, resilience and creativity.You can subscribe here: https://laurasaridavis.substack.com This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit laurasaridavis.substack.com/subscribe

In this episode, Author Laura Davis shares a powerful poetry-based writing prompt to help you discover joy despite challenging times. Features poem by Rosemerry Wahtola Trommer.Dedicated to helping others explore creative practice, Rosemerry Wahtola Trommer is an American poet, associated with Colorado. She was Poet Laureate of San Miguel County, Colorado from 2006–2010, and was named Poet Laureate of Colorado's Western Slope by the Telluride Institute from 2015–2017. You can subscribe to Rosemerry’s daily poems here.You can find information about Laura’s writing classes, workshops, and international retreats at: https://lauradavis.net/Subscribe to The Writer's Journey with Laura Davis on Substack to receive regular posts like these, as well as beautifully curated poems, essays, and photographs to build courage, resilience and creativity.You can subscribe here: https://laurasaridavis.substack.com This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit laurasaridavis.substack.com/subscribe

In this episode, Laura provides this guided writing prompt to help you transform anxiety into resilience. Explore your unique sources of strength—from ancestral wisdom to personal experiences—during politically turbulent times.You can find information about Laura’s writing classes, workshops, and international retreats at: https://lauradavis.net/Subscribe to The Writer's Journey with Laura Davis on Substack to receive regular posts like these, as well as beautifully curated poems, essays, and photographs to build courage, resilience and creativity.You can subscribe here: https://laurasaridavis.substack.com This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit laurasaridavis.substack.com/subscribe

In this episode, Laura's powerful story shows how the grit we develop overcoming personal challenges equips us with the resilience needed to face today's uncertain world.You can find information about Laura’s writing classes, workshops, and international retreats at: https://lauradavis.net/Subscribe to The Writer's Journey with Laura Davis on Substack to receive regular posts like these, as well as beautifully curated poems, essays, and photographs to build courage, resilience and creativity.You can subscribe here: https://laurasaridavis.substack.com This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit laurasaridavis.substack.com/subscribe

In this episode, Laura shares an intimate exploration of living on life's precipice: facing personal challenges, political upheaval, & a transformative writing prompt to explore your own edges.You can find information about Laura’s writing classes, workshops, and international retreats at: https://lauradavis.net/Subscribe to The Writer's Journey with Laura Davis on Substack to receive regular posts like these, as well as beautifully curated poems, essays, and photographs to build courage, resilience and creativity.You can subscribe here: https://laurasaridavis.substack.com This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit laurasaridavis.substack.com/subscribe

In this episode, Laura shares her unexpected revelation as a cancer survivor. After 18 years cancer-free, my mammogram showed something concerning. Surprisingly, facing mortality isn't what terrifies me now—it's our divided world. You can find information about Laura’s writing classes, workshops, and international retreats at: https://lauradavis.net/Subscribe to The Writer's Journey with Laura Davis on Substack to receive regular posts like these, as well as beautifully curated poems, essays, and photographs to build courage, resilience and creativity.You can subscribe here: https://laurasaridavis.substack.com This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit laurasaridavis.substack.com/subscribe

In this episode, Laura explores powerful techniques to reclaim joy amid chaos with this inspirational writing exercise. Learn how to celebrate life's small pleasures despite uncertainty.You can find information about Laura’s writing classes, workshops, and international retreats at: https://lauradavis.net/Subscribe to The Writer's Journey with Laura Davis on Substack to receive regular posts like these, as well as beautifully curated poems, essays, and photographs to build courage, resilience and creativity.You can subscribe here: https://laurasaridavis.substack.com This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit laurasaridavis.substack.com/subscribe

In this episode, Laura explores how when devastation rains down from those in power, our resistance rises. This fierce essay declares what remains untouchable despite the ease of destruction.You can find information about Laura’s writing classes, workshops, and international retreats at: https://lauradavis.net/Subscribe to The Writer's Journey with Laura Davis on Substack to receive regular posts like these, as well as beautifully curated poems, essays, and photographs to build courage, resilience and creativity.You can subscribe here: https://laurasaridavis.substack.com This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit laurasaridavis.substack.com/subscribe

In this episode, Laura shares a personal how a story of women supporting each other through community inspires a thoughtful writing prompt on building meaningful connections as acts of resistance in uncertain times.You can find information about Laura’s writing classes, workshops, and international retreats at: https://lauradavis.net/Subscribe to The Writer's Journey with Laura Davis on Substack to receive regular posts like these, as well as beautifully curated poems, essays, and photographs to build courage, resilience and creativity.You can subscribe here: https://laurasaridavis.substack.com This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit laurasaridavis.substack.com/subscribe

In this episode, Laura explores how daily walks in nature offer peaceful perspective during political uncertainty, reminding us our troubles are just a moment in the vast timeline of existence. You can find information about Laura’s writing classes, workshops, and international retreats at: https://lauradavis.net/Subscribe to The Writer's Journey with Laura Davis on Substack to receive regular posts like these, as well as beautifully curated poems, essays, and photographs to build courage, resilience and creativity.You can subscribe here: https://laurasaridavis.substack.com This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit laurasaridavis.substack.com/subscribe

You may wonder why you should bother to use writing prompts—let’s face it; a lot of typical ones are boring. You may also assume that prompts are only appropriate for beginners; but I’ve found them invaluable for writers at every level. In my decades responding to prompts and creating and personalizing them for my students, I’ve learned a lot about what makes an effective, compelling, truth-producing prompt.Listen now to discover what I learned.You can find Laura Davis at: https://lauradavis.net/Ready to join Laura's community of writers and begin your own journey of authentic storytelling?Subscribe now at: https://laurasaridavis.substack.comGet weekly essays, writing prompts, and access to a supportive community of writers dedicated to truth-telling and creative expression. Paid subscribers receive additional craft lessons, student work analysis, and audio versions of all posts.Join thousands of writers who have found their voices through Laura's guidance. Your story matters, and your voice deserves to be heard. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit laurasaridavis.substack.com/subscribe

The Writer's Journey Podcast Notes - Episode: Meet Laura DavisEpisode OverviewIn this intimate introduction episode, seven-time bestselling author Laura Davis welcomes listeners to The Writer's Journey and shares her remarkable story of transformation from trauma survivor to internationally recognized writing teacher and memoir specialist.About Laura DavisLaura Davis is a seven-time bestselling author, memoir writer, writing teacher, and workshop leader who has dedicated four decades to helping writers find their authentic voices. Known as "a midwife of stories," Laura creates safe, sacred communities for writers worldwide—both online and in beautiful destinations around the globe.Laura's Literary AchievementsLaura Davis is the author of The Burning Light of Two Stars, the story of her loving, tumultuous relationship with her mother, and six other non-fiction books that have transformed lives worldwide.Notable Publications:The Courage to Heal - Paved the way for hundreds of thousands of women to heal from sexual abuse traumaBecoming the Parent You Want to Be - Helped parents develop a vision for the families they want to createI Thought We'd Never Speak Again: The Road from Estrangement to Reconciliation - Taught essential skills of reconciliation and peace building, one relationship at a timeThe Burning Light of Two Stars: A Mother-Daughter Story-Tells the story of Laura's estrangement and reconciliation with her mother; how she ended up taking care of a mother who betrayed her in the pastMedia & Speaking:Published in Publisher's Weekly, Writer's Digest, CrimeReads, Brevity, and The New York TimesFeatured in The Los Angeles Review of BooksPopular podcast guest on QWERTY, Write-Minded, and dozens of other showsFeatured speaker for The National Association of Memoir WritersCraft teacher at The San Miguel Writer's ConferenceTeaching Excellence: For more than thirty years, Laura has dedicated herself to teaching writers how to find their voices, tell their stories, and hone their craft. She creates supportive, intimate writing communities online, in person, and through international writing adventures that combine cultural learning with creative development.Key Topics DiscussedThe Power of Healing Through WritingLaura shares her journey from being a 28-year-old incest survivor to co-authoring the groundbreaking book "The Courage to Heal" with Ellen Bass in 1988. This book became a runaway bestseller and provided the first comprehensive map of the healing process for sexual abuse survivors.Core Messages of The Courage to Heal:You are not aloneIt wasn't your faultYou can heal and thriveThere is a way out of the painFrom Trauma to TransformationLaura discusses her evolution from being defined by trauma to creating a full, rich life beyond survival. She shares how she eventually stepped away from writing about sexual abuse to focus on living fully—building a family, writing about parenting, reconciliation, and caring for aging parents.The Writer's Journey CommunityLaura explains her vision for creating safe, sacred spaces for creativity and connection, especially crucial during times of uncertainty and turmoil.Featured Segment: "Make a Commitment to Beauty"Laura emphasizes that beauty is not optional—it's "oxygen for our tattered nervous systems." She encourages listeners to pause and savor beautiful moments as an essential survival skill.Testimonials"Laura is gentle, kind, thoughtful and rigorous--it's clear she's here for us to get the full benefit of what we signed up for." - Gavriella Delgado"Mountainous in humanity, skill, depth, breadth. That's Laura. As soulful as she is grounded." - Caroline W"Laura is a magnificent midwife of stories." - Nancy KramerKey TakeawaysHealing is possible - even from the most difficult circumstancesCommunity matters - safe spaces for expression are essentialBeauty is survival - savoring beautiful moments sustains usTruth-telling transforms - authentic storytelling has the power to healWriting is a journey - not just a destinationSubscribe to The Writer's JourneyReady to join Laura's community of writers and begin your own journey of authentic storytelling?Subscribe now at: https://laurasaridavis.substack.comGet weekly essays, writing prompts, and access to a supportive community of writers dedicated to truth-telling and creative expression. Paid subscribers receive additional craft lessons, student work analysis, and audio versions of all posts.Join thousands of writers who have found their voices through Laura's guidance. Your story matters, and your voice deserves to be heard. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit laurasaridavis.substack.com/subscribe

In this video, I describe in detail:* the benefit of writing prompts* who writing prompts are intended for* the how: crucial steps in successfully responding to a writing prompt* why it’s essential to separate the creator from the editor* how writing prompts can increase your versatility and nimbleness as a writer* what it means to “go for the jugular”* why you should never cross out in a first draft* how to find “the story under the story”* four phrases that will break through any block and help you access deeper material and get you unstuck * why it’s essential to read your work out loudand much more. As always, I invite you to share your responses or your experience with writing practice in the comments.How To Get the Most Out of Writing Prompts: Here’s my advice for how to mine the deepest material in your writing: This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit laurasaridavis.substack.com/subscribe

Today, I share a favorite poem and a writing prompt inspired by that poem. The poet is Dorianne Laux. I first became aware of her work 40 years ago, when she submitted a poem for publication in the first edition of The Courage to Heal. I’ve followed her work ever since. I love her powerful, eloquent voice.This is one of her poems that I’ve often used as the basis of a writing prompt for my students. What I love about prompts like this is that you can take them anywhere. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit laurasaridavis.substack.com/subscribe

In this video, I discuss a dozen concrete steps you can take when you’re approaching tough, traumatic or potentially triggering subject matter in your writing. I discuss the following strategies in depth:* Use timed writings and stop when the predetermined time is over. Knowing there is an ending time can give you permission to dive deeply into your writing. Knowing there is a time to stop builds a natural container. Even ten minutes can be intense and revealing. Open-ended writing time can leave you feeling too raw and overwhelmed.* Explore any issues you may have about writing or keeping a journal. Many people are hesitant to write because their writing was criticized or used against them. Others have had journals read and their privacy violated in the past. Here are some tips to strategize working with these issues.* Determine the best time and conditions in which you will write. It’s good to have time to digest and process what comes up in a writing session. If you’re writing about any difficult material or you think challenging material may come up, don’t sandwich your writing right between activities and obligations.* Create rituals to ease yourself in and out of your writing time. Lighting a candle, playing music, sitting in a special spot, prayer, meditation, yoga, or stating an intention are just a few of the ways to mark the beginning or end of an exploratory writing session.* Consider ways to ensure privacy and lack of interruptions. Privacy is essential. Keeping your notebook in a locked drawer, emailing it to a trusted friend, or writing “This is the private journal of….” are several potential ways to find privacy.* Carefully choose people to share your writing with. It’s easy to share inappropriately, revealing too much to people who are not able to respect your words or respond well to the intimacy of the sharing.* Don’t flood yourself by trying to go too fast or too deep. Keep it simple at first. Try one or two exercises at a time. See how they go.* Start with simple open-ended prompts or ‘safer” prompts before moving on to more challenging ones. Save the most intense prompts or scene writing until you’ve established that you can handle the repercussions.* Create a realistic self-care plan. What will you do if you feel triggered by your writing? Come up with strategies for self-care before you need to use them.* Use writing not just to reveal, but also to ground. Consciously choose to write to prompts that enhance resilience, build strength, and reinforce your capacity for joy.* Re-evaluate the appropriateness of writing as a therapeutic tool if you feel flooded or feel overwhelmed by what you write. Make sure you have the necessary self-nurturing skills and resources in place before proceeding.* Notice topics you continually avoid as well as your obsessions. What someone doesn’t write about can be as revealing as the topics they return to again and again.Subscribers, as always, I invite you to share your responses in the comments.The Writer's Journey with Laura Davis is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit laurasaridavis.substack.com/subscribe