Do you desire to light up your message with the sparkle of storytelling?
Find the training and mentorship you seek to grow in the craft of writing and thrive as a Christian communicator.
Going it alone doesn’t get you very far. You gather tools and resources along the way, but how do you put it all together with confidence that you’re on the right path? You look for your people. That’s why the FlourishWriters Academy gathers communicators from all genres to focus step by step on the skills needed to flourish in the writing life.
Blythe Daniel
"FlourishWriters is not just a name, it's a powerful network of writers equipping and encouraging each other toward the calling of writing. From the leadership to the participants, I've seen the authenticity and professionalism in keynotes, workshops, and the empowering that occurs in these. I'm very honored to be a part of a team that weaves integrity and excellence into all they do. It is a great space to invest your time whether you are a new author or a published author - you will be glad you did!"
LET'S LIGHT UP YOUR MESSAGE WITH THE SPARK OF STORY
We’re just like many of you.
We’re friends who met years ago at a Bible study.
We’re moms of four boys and a sweet girl.
We’re wives to two wonderful husbands.
We’re in need of grace daily, and we mean daily.
We’re obsessed with encouraging women. We’re like writing midwives, birthing your words from your heart to the page.
We started Flourish with a passion to share our God stories, real-life tales of Jesus’ faithfulness in our every day.
Hello there! We’re Mindy & Jenny.
We created FlourishWriters on one simple premise: to empower and equip aspiring and working writers with practical how-to guidance and nurture for the writer's heart, helping you flourish one story at a time.
Kate Motaung
"FlourishWriters is a wonderful resource that I've recommended to a number of writing friends. I appreciate the way that Mindy and Jenny understand the challenges that many writers face - practically, emotionally, and spiritually - and the way they are committed to providing resources that will help community members overcome those challenges. They serve this community well, with grace and joy. Any writer who is looking for a supportive community and guidance in the writing life would find a welcome home at FlourishWriters."
You’re called to share the message on your heart,
and you want the telling to draw people in.
Introducing
Stories appeal to the senses: wooing readers, removing resistance, and building trust. Far more compelling than facts and data alone, stories attract your audience to your message and leave a lasting impression. Stories stick!
You’re invited to join our three-month winter Academy session for a deep dive on The Art and Craft of Storytelling where you gain the tools, techniques, and understanding needed to craft stories that captivate your reader, engage the imagination, and leave a lasting impression.
FlourishWriters guides you step by step.
We’ve created the path to flourishing in your writing journey.
BECOME A MASTER
STORYTELLER
CONNECT WITH
YOUR READER
CRAFT STORIES
THAT STICK
✔
✔
Let’s show you the way!
✔
The winter Academy is in session. The Art and Craft of Storytelling teaches you how to craft compelling, engaging, and emotionally resonant stories as a fiction or nonfiction writer . . . or both!
"All writers need a community to come alongside them and help them grow. While most organizations focus almost entirely on craft or productivity, Mindy and Jenny have created a unique gathering where your artistry will blossom, your soul will thrive, and your writing will flourish . . . one story at a time. FlourishWriters provides the tools, the clarity, and the community to take your book idea from dream to reality."
Allen Arnold
Amy Litzelman
The FlourishWriters Academy is a safe place to figure out your call, find your voice, and learn the ins and outs of writing. Mindy and Jenny are transparent and inspiring coaches. Best of all is the camaraderie found with other writers, sharing the journey and inspiring one another to keep moving forward. Come join fellow creatives at FlourishWriters. Take God’s hand and walk into the adventure with us, one step at a time, one story at a time.
Patricia Dwyer
Although I'd been a writer for over 40 years, I was in a slump two years ago and praying for a writing community. The Academy has far surpassed my expectations, offering a wide range of trainings along with feedback from Jenny, Mindy, and other members. I have writer friends supporting me as I published my latest book and found my writing rhythm again. No matter your stage of writing, the Academy is a perfect next step to move forward into your dreams.
Sharon Deming
The FlourishWriters Academy helped me stay focused on my goal of writing. The Academy guided me at each step of my writing process from brainstorming my book to publishing. I connected with other writers self-publishing their books and gained the confidence I needed to succeed. I've learned so much that will stick with me throughout my writing life. Writing is hard work, but the journey has been worth it. The Academy is well-equipped to help wherever you are in your writing journey.
Phyllis Boles
The FlourishWriters Academy is a godsend in my life. I started my first year as a self-doubting mass of quivering timidity with a message from God. Here I found faith-filled support that nourished me with hope and training. Now, in my third Academy year, I praise God for my community of writing companions, the faithful following of my monthly emails, and my first book in the editing phase. Mindy and Jenny are midwives of the messages in the womb of my heart.
WRITERS MAKING
PROGRESS
Are you looking for fresh
creativity, community
craft?
and a place to grow in your
During each Academy session, we curate workshops that focus on building out your writer’s toolbox with the practical skills you need to grow in mastery. Academy workshops present guided how-to instruction with easy-to-follow examples. You gain competency to incorporate the lessons into your writing life where they become your own. With Jenny and Mindy and Academy mentors at your side, you’ll gain proficiency in the Art and Craft of Storytelling.
Writer's workshops
1
2
critique editing group
Writers grow through the critique process, and FlourishWriters is a safe place to put yourself out there for feedback. In the Critique Editing Group, Mindy gives focused editorial attention to students' writing projects. She provides a live edit of 500 words or less, which may be part of a larger manuscript. We welcome submissions from various writing genres: fiction, nonfiction, poetry, devotional, email series, marketing copy, blog post, social media post, etc.
3
book club
Our Academy book club teaches us to read like a writer and learn from the craft of contemporary authors. With one meeting each month, Jenny leads us through “The Extraordinary Deaths of Mrs. Kip” by Sara Brunsvold where we meet journalist Aidyn Kelley whose story Invites us to reflect on living large and dying with honor. We’re excited to share Sara’s book club guide with discussion questions, fun facts you won’t find in the book, a cookie recipe challenge, and more.
4
writer's challenge
The Writer's Challenge activates the storytelling skills you gain during the Winter Session. We guide you step-by-step to plan and execute a short writing project, enabling you to demonstrate proficiency as a master storyteller. Three winners will be published on our website. In addition, the grand prize winner receives a 60-minute one-on-one coaching call with Allen Arnold, Author, Speaker, and FlourishWriter Mentor.
5
prayer support
You’re looking for meaningful ways to connect with other writers. You desire community and support in all aspects of the writing life. Prayer support is not a luxury. It’s a necessity. FlourishWriters stands out as a community dedicated to prayer. Staying close to the heart of God enables us to hold fast to hope no matter what the next three months reveal. You’re invited to join us for monthly live online meet-ups to support one another with the power of prayer.
Lynda Kelly
Kathy Dye
"If you're considering the FlourishWriters Academy, don't second guess it. That's the Lords, still small voice whispering to you. This is the path to take. This is the place to be in to write what He has called you to write."
"I love all the friends I've gained at FlourishWriters. The camaraderie, the encouragement, and the knowledge that I am gaining. But, most of all I'm not doing this alone."
Jackie Scott
"This year. I was able to follow through on my plans. I was able to get a book published a self-published book and I'm just very grateful to the Lord for that. "
"After I joined the Academy, everything changed. I learned the steps of taking those outlines and then planning and organizing and all the way to marketing."
Becky Myerson
Kathy Dye
"I have finally gotten the words that God put on my heart onto paper. I can't wait to hold my book in hand. I love the FlourishWriters Community with so much support from other writers. "
" I really thank FlourishWriters for the encouragement and the motivation that kept me going. FlourishWriters helps motivate and encourage the best in our habits and writing."
"Instead of believing that my story didn't matter, they said, ' There's a place for you here. Come share your story'. Thank you FlourishWriters for helping me see the story what God has given me and bring it to life."
"Being part of the Academy, you get a plan, you make a plan for the year and you review your goals whether you meet them or not, there's no pressure and it's fun. It's been a great learning experience."
Cynthia Staudt
Virginia Heslinga
Sarah de Orlando
Claire Davies
"In one of the classes, we were encouraged to say, "I am a writer." And I can say that now with some assurance because the Academy has helped me. It's given me confidence. It's made me believe that what I'm doing is the right thing."
"In one of the classes, we were encouraged to say, 'I am a writer.' And I can say that now with some assurance because the Academy has helped me. It's given me confidence. It's made me believe that what I'm doing is the right thing."
"I found support and instruction through workshops and masterclasses. As I learn the world of writing, I have a whole new group of friends"
"I found support and instruction through workshops and masterclasses. As I learn the world of writing, I have a whole new group of friends who encourage me, pray for me, and inspire me. I’m so grateful for the
FlourishWriters Academy."
Becky Myerson
Lynda Kelly
WHAT'S THE ACADEMY STUDENT EXPERIENCE?
Curated Workshops to Help You Master the Art & Craft of Storytelling
Melanie Dobson kicks off our Winter Session with “From Spark to Story.” Do you have the spark of an idea for a novel? Or maybe you have an entire story burning in your head and you're ready to organize the blaze. This workshop will begin at the concept stage and offer both new and experienced writers a detailed map of the eight major components needed to write an engaging and inspirational novel.
January 2025:
From Spark to Story
February 2025:
Jesus: The Master Storyteller
Let's learn from Jesus who shared paradigm-exploding truths with the simplicity of everyday stories that work their way past our defenses, opening our hearts to Spirit revelation. Using Eugene Peterson's book "Tell It Slant" as our guide, we'll examine how Jesus crafted his parables and prayers. Rather than choosing direct language of information or instruction, he used indirect language to stir the imagination. Discover how to emulate Jesus' engaging way of connecting to his audience as you craft a message with grace and truth.
March 2025:
Engage Imagination Through Allegory
Allen Arnold leads a mastermind session on the power of allegory as a literary device, demonstrated in his bestselling book, “The Story of With: A Better Way to Live, Love, & Create.” Fusing allegory with application, we are able to strengthen our message with a fresh perspective and enlightened imagination. In this session, we learn how to make the most of this storytelling technique to take readers on a journey of discovery.
Be one of the first 50 registrants and receive a FREE print copy of Allen Arnold's book "The Story of With" shipped to your home (US residents only).
Limited Time Bonus
I Am Ready! Sign Me Up!
The Story of With: A Better Way to Live, Love, & Create
a WORD from our community
Join the FlourishWriters Academy Winter Session and receive our
Tell Your Story Bundle & a digital copy for the Writer's Life Planning Guide
instantly upon registration.
Winter Session Bonuses
I Am Ready! Sign Me Up!
Tell Your Bundle
Story
We believe in the power of story as a profound path to connect your message with the heart and mind of your reader. Your story deserves to be told, but stories can be difficult to handle. That’s why we created the Tell Your Story Bundle to help you tell stories that communicate your message and hold the attention of your readers.
The bundle is designed to help you grow in the art and craft of storytelling. Eight authors and writing coaches provide instruction on best practices so you get your questions answered with the right information at the right time.
We help you identify the tools you need in your storyteller's toolbox. What are those tools, how do they work, and when do you use them? This curated bundle of resources will help you clarify the message you wish to communicate and become a master storyteller who connects with the heart of your reader.
The FlourishWriters planning guide is key to finding clarity in your writing life. This digital book makes your planning easy with all your goals and action steps organized in one place. The guide walks you step-by-step to help clarify your vision for the year and set goals each quarter. With clarity on your vision and goals, you set monthly action steps and weekly to-dos. The cycle is complete each month as you review and celebrate progress.
The Writer's Life Planning Guide (Digital Copy)
How Do I Join
The FlourishWriters Academy?
✔ Academy Access January - March 2025
✔ Monthly Writer's Workshops
✔ Q&A with Academy Mentors
✔ Monthly Book Club Meetings
✔ Writer's Challenge
✔ Critique Editing Group
✔ BONUS: Tell Your Story Bundle
✔ BONUS: Writer's Life Planning Guide (digital copy)
✔ LIMITED TIME BONUS: The Story of With by Allen Arnold (print copy)
Winter Session Academy
$127
USD
two pay
✔ Academy Access January - March 2025
✔ Monthly Writer's Workshops
✔ Q&A with Academy Mentors
✔ Monthly Book Club Meetings
✔ Writer's Challenge
✔ Critique Editing Group
✔ BONUS: Tell Your Story Bundle
✔ BONUS: Writer's Life Planning Guide (digital copy)
✔ LIMITED TIME BONUS: The Story of With by Allen Arnold (print copy)
Winter Session Academy (Split Pay)
$65
USD
one time
“I’M READY TO
MAKE PROGRESS!”
“I’M ALL IN!”
registration Closed!
Registration Closed!
As a mentor for The FlourishWriters Academy, I witnessed the nurturing environment Mindy and Jenny have built. They've created a space where writers feel seen, supported, and inspired. Their blend of practical tools, heartfelt encouragement, and a clear roadmap makes it easier for writers to tackle their goals. If you're ready to invest in your writing journey, I recommend exploring The FlourishWriters Academy.
Ann Kroeker
I was in my twenties when I first said I wanted to write a book— in my fifties when I said it's time to write a book. But, saying I want to write a book and know how to write a book are two very different things. I struggled to know where to begin. It was in isolation that I searched the internet for how to tell my story. One day in my search, I took a break to search Facebook and found FlourishWriters who offered to teach me how to write my God story. With a little bit of trepidation, I clicked on the offer, and my life changed forever!
Motivated by their Bible study, "This is His Story, " I signed up for the course to write my own Bible study. I met other writers and entrepreneurs and fell in love with the idea of a website of my own, as I had already been blogging (terribly) but dreamed of having a community and writing about Jesus and the change in my life because of Him. I just finished my fourth year in the Academy where I have taken many more courses and met with other women who all want the same thing, to write our God story.
Today I have self-published a Bible study and two devotionals on Amazon. I have a website where I am building a community that now has over a thousand followers, and I am a digital store owner publishing Bible studies and devotionals for women. I am so grateful for Mindy and Jenny and their faithfulness in sharing their knowledge. Without FlourishWriters, I might still be struggling to write my first words. I’m excited to attend my fifth year of the Academy where I plan to finish my memoir and finally tell my story.
Katherine Baker
Still not sure?
We were there not so long ago. Just like you, we had a vision, but we weren’t sure how to pursue it. We were confident in the calling, and we knew it would take trust and obedience, but we also had to figure out how to move forward. Goodness, first we had to figure out what questions to ask. We. Knew. Precious. Little. But we knew the One who would guide us.
We also had each other. Companionship gets you through hard times, confusion, self-doubt, and despair. When one of us wanted to give up, the other rushed in with support.
You don’t need to languish alone. Get into community. Find your village, faithful people you can trust, reliable information you can count on.
Think of the power in partnership: Ruth and Naomi, Mary and Joseph, Paul and Timothy . . . Batman & Robin, Rocky & Bullwinkle, Christopher Robin & Pooh.
The FlourishWriters Academy is our gift of friendship to you. We daily encounter writers who are lonely, confused, or despondent. It breaks our hearts because this does not need to be a writer’s story.
We want to share what we have with you. We invite you to join the FlourishWriters family. You belong. You are worthy. Your message matters. Your dreams are valid.
You want to be certain this is the right step for you. It may feel like a big risk. If we could go out for coffee, this is what we’d say. . .
Welcome home.
I'M Ready! Sign Me Up!
We want you to be completely satisfied with your purchase. If you have any doubts about the value of the FlourishWriters Academy, if you’re prone to buyer’s remorse, if you purchase the Academy and then a financial crisis throws your budget into a death spiral, you have 7 days after purchase to ask for a refund, and we’ll give your money back without hesitation. We’ll be sad, but we understand. Life happens.
But if you stick around and make FlourishWriters your home, we’ll be here for you, through all that life brings this year. We are a family. We commit to you through the ups and downs of your writing journey. So after the initial 14 days, we will no longer offer a refund. Instead, we’ll get to work making your writing dreams come true.
If you’re ready for a change, we’re ready to come alongside you. The FlourishWriters Academy is like nothing you’ve experienced. We’d love to see you truly flourish.
Nancy Manaserro
"2023 was my first year in the Academy and I learned so much from Jenny, Mindy, and the other FlourishWriters Academy mentors and members. I appreciated the quality education with a biblical base. Through the online classes, book clubs, community challenges, and teachings, I gained confidence in my writing and editing, learning the skills I need to improve. By the end of this year, I published my first book of 31 Devotions based on the writings from my blog!"
Kathy Knapp
" I always wanted to write a book, but I never really thought I would. Then God called me to write my hard story about healing from sexual abuse. I had no idea where to start, and if it was even possible, then God led me to FlourishWriters where I found all the support I needed. It was worth its weight in gold. And last year I was able to publish my book, Heartmending. I could not have done it without FlourishWriters."
Karen Brough
"Thanks so much for this Academy. It has been helpful. I actually self published my book not long ago. I enjoy the coaching calls and workshops. The Masterminds are awesome. There are so many things about self publishing that I would not have known about if I would not have been in the Academy. I feel like being in Academy gives me the 'inside scoop.' Thank you FlourishWriters!"
Shemeca Richard
"Words cannot express how grateful I am for FlourishWriters. Boy, oh boy, am I thrilled that God brought you my way.
The launch of my book can be directly attributed to the precious teaching & coaching you have given me along the way. You helped give oxygen to my book baby once again, and I'll be eternally grateful. Writing a book is no small adventure.
But because of you, this dream has become a reality."
WRITERS MAKING
PROGRESS
FAQ's
HOW LONG DOES THE FLOURISHWRITERS ACADEMY LAST?
The Academy runs for three semesters of three months each. In 2025, we open with the Winter Session (January - March) focused on The Art & Craft of Storytelling. Next is the Summer Session (May - July) which is all about Nurturing Your Creative Spark. Finally we gather in the Fall Session (August - October) where we’ll work on Marketing Your Message with a Mission.
WHEN DOES THE FLOURISHWRITERS ACADEMY START?
January 2025
HOW MUCH TIME WILL I NEED TO COMMIT EACH WEEK?
This will be determined by how much time you commit to your writing goals. Engaging with the Academy requires about 1-2 hours each week.
WHAT IF I CAN’T ATTEND LIVE? WILL I GET A REPLAY?
Yes, you have a learning portal with your personal login. All core content is stored in one place, organized nicely, with easy access from any device. You won’t miss a thing, and you can go back and review the content again and again.
WILL I WORK ONE-ON-ONE WITH MINDY AND JENNY?
Mindy & Jenny are hands on in the Academy so you’ll engage with them on a regular basis. You have access to them for questions and engagement during live events, in the private community space, and via email. They are sure to answer your questions in a timely manner.
WHAT IF I DON’T USE FACEBOOK?
Our live events take place on on Zoom.
WHAT KIND OF WRITERS SHOULD JOIN THE ACADEMY?
Writers of all genres are served in the Academy. We attract faith-based writers, but the messages they share are not always overtly spiritual in nature. Our expertise is nonfiction. Much of what we work on in the Academy applies to both fiction and nonfiction; however, our examples are largely nonfiction since that’s what we write. We have experienced community members writing fiction, and we bring on board other fiction writers who weigh in on specific questions that we need answered.
IF I’M A BEGINNER, WILL I FEEL OUT OF PLACE?
The material we present assumes that you’ve accepted the call to write and you want to grow in your writing skills. If you’re still not sure, you can join the Academy to find out, or you can continue to enjoy our free resources as you decide if writing will feature prominently in your life.
IF I'M MORE EXPERIENCED, WILL I FEEL OUT OF PLACE?
Since writers come from every walk of life with a wide variety of skills gathered from a thousand different places over the years, we each naturally have our own set of strengths and weaknesses. The result? Sometimes we don’t know what we don’t know—we need help to identify the gaps in our knowledge base. We teach the information we’ve tested with a focus on practical, doable, step-by-step processes. We serve a wide scope of skill-levels with high-value offerings and an engaged, enthusiastic community ready to help out wherever you have need.
WILL YOU OFFER THE ACADEMY AGAIN IN 2025?
Yes! In 2025, we open with the Winter Session (January - March) focused on The Art & Craft of Storytelling. Next is the Summer Session (May - July) which is all about Nurturing Your Creative Spark. Finally we gather in the Fall Session (August - October) where we’ll work on Marketing Your Message with a Mission.
IS THIS LIKE AN ALL-ACCESS PASS GIVING ME ACCESS TO ALL YOUR PRODUCTS?
No, The FlourishWriters Academy give you access to the items listed. If you want any of the other products we offer throughout the year, you can purchase those resources a-la-carte. And of course, we'll offer plenty of free content too.
IF I DON'T JOIN THE ACADEMY, WILL I LOSE OUT ON ALL THE COMMUNITY AND FREE CONTENT I'VE ENJOYED AT FLOURISHWRITERS TO DATE?
No, you're welcome to hang out with us. We'll still be here supporting writers with our signature let's-make-it-easy-step-by-step approach, but we will invest most intentionally with those in the Academy. When a writer chooses to invest in themselves and commit to us, we reciprocate with our lavish attention.
IS THERE A PAYMENT PLAN?
YES! We offer a convenient split pay option. When you register, you commit to one additional payment of $65, 30 days from date of registration.
WHAT IF I CHANGE MY MIND?
We do not offer refunds after 7 days from the date of registration.
IS FLOURISHWRITERS FAITH-BASED?
Yes, we are a Christian ministry, but you do not need to be working on spiritual writing to feel right at home in the Academy. We support writers in many different genres.
IS FLOURISHWRITERS FOR WOMEN ONLY?
We focus primarily on women, but we have some men who join us for the excellent resources and awesome value.
I HAVE ONE MORE QUESTION.
If we haven’t answered all of your questions here, please email us at info@flourishgathering.com We’ll get back to you asap.