Have a sprawling idea and big ambitions for a longform project but need a little help in making it happen? Join the Longform Lab Incubator program!
Character-mapping techniques to make sure you're representing all necessary viewpoints-- and keeping your story interesting!
Story structure exercises to help your writing move forward and keep your audience's attention
Foolproof tips to combat writer's block, which I use in my own writing practice
Editing exercises for that moment when you know you should be revising, but aren't sure where to start
At the beginning of each of the first six weeks, you’ll receive pre-recorded video lessons and a workbook that contains more lessons, examples, and exercises. Along the way, you can email me directly with questions or for encouragement.
Twice throughout your program, we'll hop on a video call (or phone call, if you prefer) to talk about your progress and answer any questions you might have. This is also a chance to stay accountable! (But also is optional if you're not a talking kind of person)
That's the best part, in my opinion! The course includes six weeks of original curriculum, but beyond that, it's up to you! Maybe you want to complete the whole program in six weeks (for a shorter project like a magazine article) or maybe you need six months to finish your draft after the curriculum is over (for a longer manuscript) or somewhere in between! We'll set that timeline together, though, so you'll still be held accountable. (And you'll retain access for life!)
The core of your story
Getting organized
Goal setting
This stage, we'll start off strong by focusing on the most important part of your story: its core. We'll work through exercises together to reveal what that true inner core is and what message you're trying to communicate. We'll also organize whatever writing, notes, or research you have so far, as well as set specific goals for our time together.
Topic v. story
Medium matters
Characters
Bias & blindspots
This stage, we'll dive deeper into your characters, whether those are real people in a work of nonfiction or journalism, or fictional characters you've created yourself. We'll also begin a discussion of story arc and choosing a medium for your final story, if you haven't already.
Structure masterclass
This stage is all about structure! Instead of working through a few shorter lessons, we'll focus on a structure masterclass. By the end of this week, you'll have a full outline of your story!
Revisiting your SMART goal
Drafting
Writer's block
This stage, we'll focus on drafting, which is another term for writing. This is where the rubber hits the road. You'll write your draft in earnest now. But don't worry- you're not left alone. I'll still be there every step of the way to break it down.
Big picture editing
Cut and paste method
Line editing
This stage we'll talk all about how to edit your longform story. We'll go over both big picture, structural editing techniques and sentence-level line editing tips and tricks. By the end of the stage, you'll have a full revision plan in hand.
Pitching & publishing
Evaluating your SMART goal
Next steps
Finally, the Longform Lab will finish up with a lesson all about pitching and publication. You'll finish this stage with a final pitch document for your story, which you can use with editors or publishers down the line. We'll also take a look at your goal and work thus far, and create an action plan for your next steps in your writing career!