Susan’s Journey

I wanted “real stories”

I’ve always been a writer. As a schoolgirl, I wanted more than the “Dick and Jane” readers we labored through in class. I wanted to write “real stories.” That’s what I said I wanted; but I didn’t know what it meant.

In college, I studied journalism. I got jobs as a newspaper reporter, a public affairs specialist, a corporate editor. By age 29, I was burned out and unhappy. I was a successful writer, but none of what I was writing even came close to touching my childhood longing for the “real stories” I couldn’t explain.

I was so far away from myself. I was going down a reckless path. I didn’t know who I was, what mattered to me, or what I was supposed to do with my life. In my despair, I began to write things down about myself and then tear them up. The truth was just too scary to keep. Then I’d write those same things down again and tear them up. Again and again I did this, until finally I could allow a piece of myself to stick to the page.

Writing is what saved me

This was how I came back to myself. This was how I came to see and feel and accept the person I was. It was like having a new pen pal I was getting to know, finding out a bit more about her life with each written exchange. I saw myself on paper, and little by little, I began to have compassion for the girl in my story. I started to like who I saw.

So writing is what saved me. It gave me the tools for honest self-reflection. It opened my heart and affirmed my life. And eventually, it revealed my ultimate gift: creating a safe place for other women to explore their lives through writing, too.

I love what I do

It’s been a long journey to this place. Along the way, I opened a coffee store, started a restaurant, and became a firefighter/EMT. I wrote for dozens of nonprofit clients and co-authored a book about 9/11. I practiced meditation, fasted alone in the desert, and became a wilderness rites-of-passage guide. I had wonderful teachers; and all of it prepared me for this.

The photo below is one of my latest journeys, time spent alone in Death Valley, contemplating the life ahead of me and the years I have left on this earth. What is important to me? How will I spend this time? Who are the people I want to travel beside me? If you are reading these words, you are one of those people.

I love what I do. I love sharing the magic of writing with others. And I love knowing that I will never be done exploring my life. I see every question as the opening line of the next story. Who am I now? Who am I now? I am always growing, and there will always be more to uncover. This, I have learned, is what a “real story” is all about.

How can I help you find your real story?

Contact Me

A Word From Susan’s Students

You are an incredible writer, Susan, and one of the most positive individuals I’ve ever met. You saw something in my writing that others had never seen. Thank you for caring, giving, and guiding. I truly appreciate how you pull out the best in everyone.

Rev. Eileen Brownell, Chico, CA

Thank you from the bottom of my heart for all you do in the world. You’ve made a big difference in my life. I’ve cleaned out some ugly cobwebs, and I thank you for your support and guidance.

Coleen Stevens, Healdsburg, CA

You are such a blessing to me, in so many ways. You are a treasure, so deeply loved by all your students. Thank you for showing up in your purpose.

Donna Santiago Woods, Novato, CA

In such short encounters, you have been magic in my life. You are a force for good in this world, making your big magic happen one little encounter at a time.

Marcia Rose, Santa Rosa, CA

Your guidance, wisdom, and teaching enlighten my soul. Your kindness and compassion fill my heart. Thank you for holding me in the circle with such gentleness and care. I feel so blessed to have you in my life.

Rose Marie Romano, Sacramento, CA