Pikes Peak Writers Conference 2025

The Dalai Lama said, "Don't learn Buddhism to be a better better Buddhist; learn Buddhism to be a better whatever you are." I am a writer.

Join author Johnny for discoveries in eastern philosophy with their application to the life of an author with its many disappointments. Sessions include directed mindfulness meditation and lecture on concepts that directly speak to the writer’s journey.

• Day one: Basics - the Four Noble Truths and the Eight Fold Noble path
• Day two: Blocks - The Five Hindrances and the power of RAIN
• Day three: Third Person Limited - Non-Identity and the muse

Each class meets in the morning before regular programming Though classes are meant as a three-day seminar, attendees can come to any of them without prior or later attendance and still get useful information.

As long as humans have been sharing ideas, they've also been finding ways to conceal them. Learn the history of secret messages and the methods used to craft them, and explore ways to add codes, puzzles, and spycraft to your storytelling—no matter what genre.

Intimacy isn't limited to romance. Authentic character relationships are crucial in all genres, whether you're telling a love story or building a friendship. This workshop will explore the progression from initial awareness to physical intimacy, as well as the emotional layers accompanying each stage of connection.

Are you interested in crafting captivating mysteries wrapped in the warmth of small-town charm? Dive into the world of cozy mystery writing with award-winning and USA TODAY Bestselling author, Jennie Marts, as she teaches you what it takes to write in this beloved subgenre of crime fiction. Learn how to create a story with a charming setting, an intriguing murder, a quirky cast of characters—some of whom will be the amateur sleuths trying to solve the mystery—and that a red herring is more than just a smoked piece of fish.

This workshop focuses on the nuts and bolts of dramatic structure and learning from other media to create the most polished fiction and target the broadest possible audience.

Story structure can be a powerful tool to help you map out the plot of your novel. This workshop provides a high-level overview of a variety of different “mapping” options, including Three-Act Structure, the Hero’s Journey, GMC (Goal, Motivation & Conflict), and the Plotting Grid. Explore different structures to see what might work best for you via participatory exercises, examples from popular fiction, and a take-home list of resources. Terrific for beginning writers, as well as seasoned “pantsers” who want to learn what all the plotting fuss is about.

Helping writers establish the foundation upon which they can build their lists and projects, grounded in their unique strengths and background, paving a career path that builds their successes with each creative move.