Hi, I’m Jackie,
writing coach & editor.

Jackie Heinze

Storytelling is power, and there has never been a more crucial time than now for you to step into that power, write your story, and share it with the world. I’ll help you do that.

As your writing coach, I’ll be your greatest cheerleader. I’ll inspire you, help you generate work, hold you accountable, listen deeply to your ideas, and guide you forward.

As your editor, I’ll work to ensure your story, voice, and writing are as resonant and robust as they can be. With my support, you’ll create the best version of the story you most want to tell.

Wherever you are on your writing journey, I’ll meet you there. Scroll down to explore the ways to work with me.

Services

  • A shelf with several books standing upright. The books have various colored spines, featuring titles related to writing. Next to the books, there is a vase with an abstract pattern, holding decorative yellow pom-pom flowers on long stems.

    1:1 Coaching

    As your coach, I’ll focus on you the writer as much as on your writing. My personalized, customizable coaching offers you encouragement, inspiration, and support—by helping you establish a writing practice and a writing plan with achievable goals. I also offer regular check-ins, methods to move past writers’ block, thoughtful feedback, and more. Move beyond self-doubt and procrastination and into the joy of prioritizing your work.

  • A small succulent plant in a green ceramic pot is placed on a stack of books. The books include "The Artful Edit" by Susan Bell, "Refuse to Be Done" by Matt Bell, and "Seven Drafts" by Allison Williams. In the background, there is a blurred image of a cat portrait with a yellow background.

    Editing Services

    Have you completed a draft of your memoir, novel, or screenplay? Short story or personal essay? Congratulations! When you’re ready to tackle the next draft, don’t do it alone. Share your manuscript with me and receive fresh insight, clarity, and guidance through extensive and considerate feedback—from someone who knows story and cares deeply about your work.

  • Two books titled 'The Anti-Racist Writing Workshop' and 'Craft in the Real World' on a wooden surface with a pencil and a pot of dried lavender.

    Workshops & Classes

    Community is an essential component of a thriving writer’s life, and nothing makes me happier than a group of writers sharing and discussing their work together. I regularly teach in the Screenwriting Program at UCLA Extension and also offer private workshops, classes, and retreats. Check out my upcoming offerings and sign up to join my mailing list.

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Is this the right opportunity for you?

Writers who benefit from working with me are—

  • Writers who seek to feel less alone with their work by talking through the writing process with someone who listens deeply, asks the right questions, and provides direction.

  • Writers who desire personalized support from a seasoned writing coach.

  • Writers committed to improving their craft and strengthening their voice.

  • Writers hoping for generous, honest feedback that best serves them and their story.

  • Writers who know they are most productive when given deadlines.

  • Writers pursuing an alternative to an MFA program.

  • Post-MFA writers who miss the structure and accountability of a program. 

  • Writers who are ready to make their writer dreams come true!

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Should you go for it and sign up?

The time is now to work with me if—

  • You’re ready to start that project you can’t stop thinking about.

  • You’re ready to finish that project you’ve been working on.

  • You’re ready to announce to the world that you’re a published writer.

  • You’re ready to work at a higher level of storytelling and craft.

  • You’re ready to incorporate accountability into your writing practice.

  • You’re ready to receive feedback that is productive and compassionate.

  • You’re ready to honor your voice and become the writer you’re meant to be.

  • You’re not sure you’re ready for any of these things, but you’ve decided to bravely step forward, respect your passion, and commit to your work.

  • Jackie knows how to find each writer’s strengths and how to praise those moments, and she knows how to point to the weaker spots with encouragement and humor. As a creative nonfiction writer, my work has gotten stronger and clearer and richer. I’ll forever be carrying the gifts she’s given me, the tools, feedback, and general encouragement. I can’t think of a single person in my life who wouldn’t benefit from Jackie’s insight on writing and being a human in an often overwhelming world.

    —Molly Haas, writer and photographer

  • Jackie’s guidance and notes helped me get my writing to a place I didn't think it could go. She knows the questions to ask to get a writer to go deeper into their work. I'm always in awe of how she can solve the riddle of helping writers get unstuck.

    —Beth Penn, writer and business owner

  • Jackie is direct and kind and funny, and she uses her formidable mind for the good. She takes writing very seriously. Perhaps more importantly, she takes writers very seriously. She’s committed to nurturing craft through compassionate criticism and careful attention. There is no star rating that I am aware of for this process, but I want to offer my strenuous endorsement of Jackie.

    —Mary Birnbaum, award-winning writer

  • Jackie’s feedback is supportive and compassionate but not at the expense of helping you achieve your creative goals. The focus and care she puts into each writer’s work are incredible. You and your writing will grow.

    —Kristine Kimmel, writer and podcaster

Click below to schedule a free 30-minute consultation with me.