Why Hire an Author Coach?
At Way-Word Writers, we understand that every author’s journey is unique. Our team of experts—including certified life/author coaches Stephanie Bearce and Nicki Jacobsmeyer, along with Senior Literary Agent Heather Cashman—offers personalized support to help writers at any stage elevate their craft and achieve their publishing goals. Whether you need guidance on refining a query letter, developing a manuscript, preparing for submission, or managing project timelines, our expert coaching services provide the tools and confidence to move forward and reach your writing dreams.
If you are interested in Author Coaching, please email us at [email protected]
Stephanie Bearce
Stephanie Bearce is an award-winning author of 37 books, including The Secret of Moonrise Manor Shadow Mountain Publishing, 2025. As a certified life and author coach with a Master’s degree in Behavioral Studies and Counseling, Stephanie specializes in helping writers unlock the full potential of their stories. Whether you’re developing a novel or nonfiction proposal, Stephanie provides expert guidance in story structure, character development, and marketing strategies. Having successfully launched numerous books herself, she knows how to help authors create a long-term career plan that will keep them moving forward. If you’re ready to refine your writing and build a sustainable career, Stephanie is the coach for you.
Nicki Jacobsmeyer
Nicki Jacobsmeyer is a published author of adult and children’s books. As a certified life and author coach with a Business degree, Nicki excels at providing practical solutions for balancing creative passion with the demands of daily life . Whether you need help managing your time, setting achievable write goals, writing nonfiction or marketing proposals developing your story idea, Nicki’s coaching is designed to keep you on track and focused. If you’re looking for personalized support to stay productive and bring your writing projects to life, Nicki is the perfect coach to guide you.
Heather Cashman
Heather Cashman – Get Your Manuscript Submission-Ready
Ready to elevate your manuscript? As a Senior Literary Agent and experienced editor, Heather Cashman offers personalized guidance to help authors polish their work for submission. With a keen eye for unique voices and powerful storytelling, Heather helps writers deepen their narratives and refine their manuscripts to stand out in today’s market. Work with Heather to uncover the heart of your story and prepare it for the publishing world.
While Heather’s project list is currently full, keep an eye out for her next availability—she’ll let writers know when new coaching opportunities open up.
Way-Word Writer Launch Package
For authors who are ready to conquer their path and need feedback on next steps
What’s included:
A 60-minute brainstorming session on writing career and goals
Recommendations for next steps on your journey
Story Development Package
For authors who need help developing their story idea, character arcs, or plot structure. This package focuses on big-picture elements of the story and offers strategic guidance on how to build a strong narrative.
What’s included:
One 60-minute kickoff session (via Zoom or phone) to discuss the project and brainstorm story development
Detailed feedback on up to 50 pages of the manuscript (early draft or outline) with focus on plot, pacing, character, and world-building
A 60-minute follow-up session to discuss revisions and next steps
Email support between sessions for questions and progress checks
Whole Novel Critique & Feedback Package
For authors with a completed draft who need in-depth feedback. This package includes a comprehensive critique focusing on the overall structure, pacing, character development, plot holes, and other key elements.
What’s included:
Full manuscript critique (up to 80,000 words) with an editorial letter covering big-picture feedback and key areas for improvement
Line-level notes on select sections (e.g., first three chapters)
A 90-minute follow-up session to go over feedback, answer questions, and offer revision strategies
One 30-minute check-in session post-revision to discuss progress or new challenges
Nonfiction Proposal Package
For authors developing a nonfiction book proposal who need guidance on crafting a compelling proposal, including market analysis, sample chapters, and platform building.
What’s included:
A 60-minute session to discuss the book concept and proposal structure
In-depth feedback on each section of the proposal (including overview, market analysis, competitive titles, bio, and sample chapter)
A comprehensive review of the final proposal draft
A 60-minute follow-up session to go over final revisions and pitching strategy
Career Counseling Package
For authors looking for guidance on developing a long-term writing career, building an author platform, and making strategic decisions about their projects and market positioning.
What’s included:
Over three months
A 90-minute session to assess current career goals and develop a personalized roadmap
Monthly 60-minute check-in sessions (over a three-month period) to review progress and tackle new challenges
Feedback on key materials such as query letters, pitches, or marketing plans
Ongoing email support between sessions for additional guidance and accountability
Time Management Package (Shorter Option)
For authors looking for guidance on developing a personalized time management strategy that works for their life to conquer their project, writing, and life goals.
What’s included:
Over six weeks
A 60-minute session to assess current time management habits, life and career goals, and develop a personalized roadmap
Bi-Weekly 30-minute check-in sessions (over a six-week period, totally three sessions) to review progress and tackle new challenges
Ongoing email support between sessions for additional guidance and accountability
Story Development Intensive (Shorter Package)
For authors who need help shaping their story but aren’t ready for a full critique. This is a focused, more affordable option for writers who want big-picture feedback on their project’s direction.
What’s included:
A 60-minute brainstorming session to discuss the project
Written feedback on a detailed synopsis or the first 25 pages
A 30-minute follow-up session to refine the direction and next steps
Whole Proposal Critique (Shorter Option)
For authors who need feedback on their nonfiction proposal, but not full development.
What’s included:
A detailed critique of the full proposal with written feedback
A 30-minute follow-up session to go over revisions