Southwest Writers Workshop

Join Us for the 2025 SW Writers Workshop!
Are you ready to take your writing to the next level? Mark your calendar for Saturday, March 1, 2025, and joins us from 9 AM to 5 PM at Benedictine University in Mesa, Arizona, for a day of inspiration, growth and connection.
The 2025 SW Writers Workshop features 9 master authors teaching 9 unique classes on the craft of writing, marketing strategies and the ever-changing book industry. Whether you’re just starting out or a seasoned writer, this workshop is designed to equip you with the tools you need to polish your skills and propel your work-in-progress (WIP) toward success.

Enjoy a 1.5-hour lunch break to recharge! Explore one of the charming local eateries on Main Street or stay on campus to network with fellow writers—brown bag lunch optional!
What to bring: Your WIP, a laptop, or good ole paper and pens, your curiosity, and your drive to learn.
What to expect: Practical lessons, personalized, and the opportunity to connect with a supportive community of fellow writers.
Don’t miss this chance to polish, shine, and prepare your story for the world. Space is
limited, so reserve your spot now and get ready to transform your writing journey!
Event Details

When:
March 1, 2025
9AM-5PM
Registration beings at 8:30am
Lunch is 1.5 hours. Take advantage of the charming local eateries downtown Mesa or stay on campus to network with other writers—brown bag lunch is optional.
Where:
Benedictine University Mesa
225 E Main St, Mesa, AZ 85201
Cost:
- $45 for ANWA Members
- $50 for General Public
Class Descriptions

Melinda Carroll
Go for the Winning Goal: Creating Goals for Every Level of Your Story
Instructor Bio:

Arianne Costner
Navigating Trends in the Middle Grade Market
Instructor Bio:

Pam Eaton
Book Marketing 101
Instructor Bio:

Donna Hatch
The 21 Deadly Sins of Writing Romance OR How to Write a Romance
Instructor Bio:

Rebecca Irvine
Self-editing Helps for Improving Your Manuscript
Instructor Bio:

Randy Lindsay
So, You Want to Podcast
Maybe you have a book that needs an audience. Or maybe you want to grow your fanbase. You might have a passion that you want to share with the world, or maybe you just want a bunch of people to know what a beautiful face you have and how awesome you are.
Be prepared to workshop with your classmates. Discover how to transform your writing skills into compelling podcast content. Explore the essentials of content creation and podcast development. Find the format that best suits your style and creative vision. The essentials of podcasting on the YouTube platform. And learn the basics of monetization, from sponsorships to subscription models.
Instructor Bio:

Brad McBride
Where did that come from? Finding Inspiration from you Writing
Instructor Bio:

Amy Standage
Instagram Reels 101: An Author's Guide to creating content.
Instructor Bio:

Kate Stradling
Liar, Liar, Pants on Fire
If you write, chances are you’re a liar. Deception is a tool of the trade when you fabricate characters, settings, scenes, and those delectable plot twists everyone adores. The good news? Your readers want to be fooled. The bad? They’re constantly, instinctively looking for your tricks.
This class explores the dynamics of deception in the written word: why less detail is often more effective, how barrier objects hurt your credibility, and the cooperative principles you can harness to your advantage. Learn the tells of a poor liar and the skills of an accomplished one so you can put away those flame-retardant trousers and lie like a pro.