To introduce women to one of the benefits of Story Circle Network, we've made this article from the September 2025 issue of the Journal available to the public for a limited time. Enjoy!
by Len Leatherwood, SCN Vice President & Education Coordinator
Since 1997, Story Circle Network has helped thousands of women tell their stories, and hundreds of teachers have guided our members through memoir, fiction, poetry, journaling, and life-writing. Our classes have always been at the heart of what we do at SCN, and every program we offer is guided by the same mission: Women’s life stories matter—let us help you tell yours.
What began as a handful of small online journaling classes has grown into a wide-reaching education program that now serves women around the world. This year, more than thirty teachers shared their expertise through SCN’s offerings—online classes, webinars, a virtual conference, a memoir writing series, an in-person retreat, and an international writing trip.
Whether meeting on Zoom or gathering on a rooftop in Spain, every experience is designed to help women find their voices, to connect with one another, and to grow as writers and storytellers.
Online Classes
Our online classes remain the foundation of SCN’s education program, offering structure, encouragement, and community. Courses span the writing journey from journaling for self-reflection and beginning memoir or fiction classes to advanced workshops on structure, voice, and revision. Participants have consistently expressed their appreciation in messages like the one below.
“I loved this class! The instructor provided thoughtful prompts and feedback,
creating a supportive space where everyone could share and grow.”
~ Online Class Participant
These courses do more than teach craft. They create a space where women can share their stories, receive thoughtful encouragement, and form lasting friendships. Many students go on to publish pieces, enter competitions, join our writing circles, or even return to teach for us—a testament to the lasting impact of learning and connection in our community.
Memoir Writing Series
This fall, SCN introduced the Memoir Writing Series, a six-week program designed to offer structure, accountability, and encouragement as the year draws to a close. Each week, a different instructor leads participants through topics like overcoming fear, finding their real stories, and shaping family stories for the page. Although full registration has closed, there’s still time to join the final two live sessions listed below (only $25 each!). Register here.
Is Your Grandma a Real Character? with Linda Wisniewski—December 3, 2025
Weaving Your Family Story with Caroline Topperman—December 10, 2025
The response to this new series has been encouraging, and we’re planning more themed programs for 2026 to help writers stay motivated and connected.
Webinars
Our monthly webinars continue to offer accessible, practical learning for writers who want to keep improving their craft ninety minutes at a time. Recent sessions explored topics like transforming truth into fiction, steps to start a writing practice, and navigating the editing and self-publishing process.
“Our instructor was excellent! Her knowledge, experience, and real-world approach made everything clear and practical.”
~ Webinar Participant
Webinars have become an important way for writers to stay connected between classes, offering new ideas, useful tools, and steady encouragement from our instructors.
Virtual Conference
In October, SCN hosted its fifth annual Virtual Conference, bringing together about sixty participants from across the United States and abroad. With a day of sessions led by experienced instructors and lively group discussions, the conference offered practical guidance, thoughtful conversation, and the simple pleasure of being in a room—albeit a virtual one—where women listened to one another’s stories.
“It feels like we’re all sitting around a cozy kitchen table sharing stories.”
~ Conference Attendee
Many praised the range of topics, the quality of presenters, and the welcoming atmosphere. For participants who cannot travel, the virtual format continues to be an accessible way to take part in SCN education.
LifeLines Retreat & International Writing Trip
In-person experiences remain vital to our work. At the LifeLines Retreat in Dallas, eleven women gathered to focus on their writing, share aloud, and support each other’s growth. The retreat offered time for quiet reflection, discussion, and renewal. Many participants left with renewed energy and new friendships.
Across the ocean, SCN’s international writing trip to Spain brought another group together to write, explore, and share stories in an inspiring setting. Days were spent walking through historic streets, writing over coffee, and reading aloud in the evenings. These experiences remind us why SCN exists—to give women the time, space, and support to explore their voices among others who understand the journey.
Looking Ahead to 2026
As we move into 2026, our focus is simple: Keep what works, make it better, and remain true to our mission. Planned improvements include:
- On-Demand Learning: Access classes on your own time.
- New Themed Series: Multi-instructor programs to build momentum and deepen learning.
- Simplified Communication: Clearer emails with upcoming opportunities and deadlines in one place.
- A Refreshed Website: Easier navigation for classes, webinars, retreats, and trips.
Our programs welcome women of all ages, backgrounds, and writing goals. We aim to ensure that our offerings are accessible, affordable, and responsive to what writers need. Join us! Whether you take a class, attend a webinar, or support SCN as a donor, your participation helps keep our education program alive and vibrant.
Winter 2026 Classes Are Open
Our Winter Course Guide is now available, with classes running from January through March. Click on the graphic below to explore the full schedule.
If you have ideas for future topics or series, please contact me at lenleatherwood@gmail.com. Your suggestions help keep our programs relevant and responsive to what members need. Nearly three decades in, SCN’s education program continues to evolve, but its heart remains the same:
To help every woman discover, craft, and share the story only she can tell.
If you enjoyed this article, please share with a friend!
SCN's quarterly Journal is chock full of excellent writing and resources to inspire women and help us hone our writing craft. Members have access to our entire archive of Journals—over 25 years' worth!—and many other benefits.
Click here to join us today!
