Story Summit

09/01/2026

A September message from our founder, David Kirkpatrick:

With the turn of the calendar, we enter a new season. At Story Summit, we can’t really say “Happy Back to School,” as school is always open around here. But we can wish you happiness and productivity in these next few months, as Story Summit continues to honor the three mountains of its conception: inspiration, education, and encouragement. Happy September, everyone, and happy writing!

08/31/2026

Writing doesn’t have to mean sitting quietly and figuring everything out on your own.

Sometimes the best ideas come from sharing, discussing, asking questions, and creating alongside people who understand the process.

That’s what makes Story Summit different.

Our classes are built around connection and participation, giving writers the opportunity to learn from experienced professionals while also learning from and inspiring one another.

Join over 300 writers who are learning, creating, and growing together.

➡️ https://www.storysummit.us/membership ⬅️

08/28/2026

Somewhere out there, a reader is waiting for the story only you can tell.

Don’t let doubt keep your words hidden. Keep writing. Keep creating. Keep believing in the story you’re meant to share.

08/27/2026

Her Spirit: Under the Desert Sky, our writing retreat created just for women, is coming to Tucson, Arizona, March 8–12, 2027—and we’re thrilled to announce the first two members of our faculty.

https://www.storysummit.us/her-spirit-retreat-2027

08/25/2026

Learn to Run Your Own Show

Join veteran writer, producer, and showrunner Todd Slavkin for a four-part Saturday workshop beginning September 26. Go behind the scenes of the writers’ room, production, and post—and learn what it takes to become a trusted member of a TV writing staff.

Sign up now and step inside the business of showrunning.

In this four-part Saturday workshop, veteran writer, producer and showrunner Todd Slavkin (Smallville, Shadowhunters, The Mysterious Benedict Society) takes writers inside the complete life of a television series, from the writers' room through prep, production and post-production. Each session cove...

08/24/2026

Yesterday, we held a special Disney Appreciation Night where the incredible Jeff Arch talked about writing Iron Will!

During the first half, Jeff talked about some of the sequences he wrote in the script, and what inspired him to write them.

The second half involved our students asking Jeff questions on the moments that inspired them--including the dog sled scenes!

Thank you to everyone who came to this wonderful event!

Here's to many more in the future!

08/23/2026

You may remember that Summiteer Annee Martin commissioned a painting of Story Summit mascot Arthur (David’s corgi) to raffle off among those who donated to the Steps for Stories fundraiser.

Well, we have a winner! Please watch the cutest video ever, by Bailey Patterson, for the big reveal.

08/21/2026

Help us shape the Children's Book Academy. Take two minutes to tell us what classes, topics, and support would help you bring your children's book idea to life.

➡️ https://www.storysummit.us/children-book-academy-poll

08/18/2026

Join us for the finale of our Disney Appreciation Series, when our beloved sensei Jeff Arch — the Oscar-nominated writer of Sleepless in Seattle — takes us behind the scenes of Iron Will, the Walt Disney Studios adventure he wrote.

Jeff will be joined by David Kirkpatrick, former production chief of Disney Studios, who'll be asking the questions. Knowing these two, expect an hour that's as hilarious as it is informative.

An Evening with Jeff Arch 8 to 9 PM ET (5 to 6 PM Pacific)

08/16/2026

Today is officially the final day of our Membership Flash Sale, and there will be no more extensions!

https://www.storysummit.us/membership

If you’ve been thinking about becoming a Story Summit member, this is your last chance to take advantage of the special Flash Sale pricing. The sale ends tonight, Sunday, August 16, at midnight Pacific.

Use code FLASH40 at checkout!