SPEAKING
Poetry Workshops, Readings & More
I used to be afraid of poetry. Then I met a friend who
introduced me. I’d like to introduce you, too.

Would you like to learn to write your own poetry?
The Apostle Paul says in Ephesians we are God’s poiema, Greek for “a made thing.” Our lives are literally God’s poem – He writes our stories through our daily living, breathing & walking around. But how can we get the poetry of our lives on the page to express our own “made things?”
Whether you are new to the practice of writing or have been journaling daily for years, if you want to discover a deeper connection with God through poetry, you have come to the right place!
SPEAKING & Workshops
In 2021, after years of practice and the kindness of fellow faith poets who welcomed me in, I took the leap and released my first book of poetry.
In late Fall of 2023 my second book, Mining the Bright Birds: Poems of Longing for Home was released. Those two experiences showed me the power of connecting through God by writing (and reading!) poetry.
Along the way I’ve learned a lot–that writing poetry is a way that God speaks to us and through us.
If you’ve ever wanted to learn more about tiptoeing into the creative space of poetic expression, MAKING FRIENDS WITH POETRY is the place to begin.
In Making Friends with Poetry Workshops, attendees can expect:
- An introduction and outline of What Poetry Is and What Poetry is Not, covering both the misconceptions and mystery of poetry, as well as what makes a poem “good.”
- Demonstration and practice time to brainstorm ideas and images
- Examples of how to organize ideas and where to begin.
- Poetry prompts, word lists and blank journals will be provided.
- Writing practice and drafting a poem of your own
- An optional reflection and sharing time at the end.
Total event time is approximately two hours
Workshops are FREE at this time and open to men & women.
SPEAKING & Workshops
In 2021, after years of practice and the kindness of fellow faith poets who welcomed me in, I took the leap and released my first book of poetry.
In late Fall of 2023 my second book, Mining the Bright Birds: Poems of Longing for Home was released. Those two experiences showed me the power of connecting through God by writing (and reading!) poetry.
Along the way I’ve learned a lot–that writing poetry is a way that God speaks to us and through us.
If you’ve ever wanted to learn more about tiptoeing into the creative space of poetic expression, MAKING FRIENDS WITH POETRY is the place to begin.
In Making Friends with Poetry Workshops, attendees can expect:
- An introduction and outline of What Poetry Is and What Poetry is Not, covering both the misconceptions and mystery of poetry, as well as what makes a poem “good.”
- Demonstration and practice time to brainstorm ideas and images
- Examples of how to organize ideas and where to begin.
- Poetry prompts, word lists and blank journals will be provided.
- Writing practice and drafting a poem of your own
- An optional reflection and sharing time at the end.
Total event time is approximately two hours
Workshops are FREE at this time and open to men & women.
Some kind words about my workshops:
“Jody’s class provided a safe place to stretch my poetic muscles.”
“The workshop is a good overall introduction to poetry. I like how Jody develops this workshop based on her personal experience that I think many people can relate to.”
“A nice casual pace with plenty of time to process and create.”
Speaking Topics
Making Friends With Poetry–An non-academic workshop designed to make poetry accessible offering a glimpse into understanding poetry, with an opportunity to draft, craft and write a poem. A Zoom option will be coming in 2024 (fee-based).
“I am From” Workshop— Using a template provided, attendees will translate their life experience into words, tracing their journey to faith and redemption. A sample of my I am From poem can be read HERE.
Speaking Topics
Making Friends With Poetry–An non-academic workshop designed to make poetry accessible offering a glimpse into understanding poetry, with an opportunity to draft, craft and write a poem. A Zoom option will be coming in 2024 (fee-based).
“I am From” Workshop— Using a template provided, attendees will translate their life experience into words, tracing their journey to faith and redemption. A sample of my I am From poem can be read HERE.
Upcoming Events
DECEMBER 2023
Open Mic Poetry Night, Boon Boona Coffee, Renton WA
Jubilee Farms Christmas Mercantile Book Table, Carnation, WA