A New Chapter in My Work (and Website) as a Writer and Speaker

Choosing Ease: A New Chapter for my Work and Website

There’s something a little wild about taking down a website you’ve spent three years building. My website was beautiful. It had all the bells and whistles. I was consistently being complimented on it. It represented everything I had been creating. I loved it.

And it cost a lot: in money, time, and energy. This no longer made sense.

So I chose ease. I chose simple. I chose something I could manage on my own.

This new website is pared down. Less flashy. Fewer options. And I love it, too.

What I’m Letting Go of and Why

Over the past five and a half years, I have hosted over 25 different workshops and groups. I’ve poured my heart into developing each one. I’ve tirelessly promoted them myself and paid for marketing and had (mostly) great success. And now, like my website, I’m choosing ease.

I won’t be running my own workshops anymore—except Safety in Numbers, my cozy and lovely writing group. Instead I will focus on speaking events and being hired to host workshops for groups and communities that align with my values. I have a huge folder of workshops and slides that I’ve developed, ready to be tailored for schools, organizations, and writers of all ages.

What I’m Holding Close

I’ve realized that what lights me up is being in conversation with people navigating life and trying to make meaning through story. I love the way speaking allows for connection and how sharing my own stories opens space for others to reflect on their own.

My year of teaching college students has confirmed something that I didn’t fully know: I love teaching.

I love showing up, being creative, listening deeply, and finding ways to support others in discovering their voice. Whether it’s in a classroom, a workshop, or on a stage, I’m here for the meaningful conversations and connections that follow.

The Book That’s Asking for My Time

My creative non-fiction manuscript, Yelling at Dead People, is finally getting the time and focus it deserves. I’ve written over 25,000 words and I’m on track to finish a full draft by the end of this year with the support of a writing coach.

This process is stretching me. I’m experimenting with form, voice, and deep vulnerability. And it is so very satisfying. One of my biggest commitments right now is to make space for this book to grow.

Creating for the Joy of It

Not everything I create needs to become a product. Lately I’ve been drawn to making things just for the joy of making. No purpose. No need for it to be useful. No strong desire to even share what I’ve made. It’s become a quiet rebellion against the pace of an online business. A way back to myself.

You’ll notice that my shop has also been pared down. I still have notebooks and tote bags and writing themed postcards. But I’ll sell them at in-person markets, rather than here.

A Note About My Books

This site will still hold space for my books: Pixie and the Bees, Pixie and the Fox, The Mail Art Stories Project, and even Yelling at Dead People. Each one is a huge part of my story. They have opened up conversations about anxiety, unhealthy relationships, connection, and creativity. As I write this I am reflecting on my author event at an elementary school last night. After reading my Pixie books, the youngsters began sharing how they get a ‘feeling’ when things aren’t right, and what they do when their worries buzz too loudly.

I will continue to share about my books, the conversations they bring, and how they continue to live in schools, therapy offices, and homes around the world.

For You: A Journaling Prompt

One thing that I have been reminded of over and over again is the power of a prompt.

Writing prompts offer a starting point. An invitation to begin. They provide a place to start when we are either lacking ideas or are overwhelmed by them. I use them. And I will continue to share some with you, in my blog posts, on social media, and mostly in my newsletters.

Here’s a journaling prompt for today.

Today will be easier if I …

Try writing for 10 minutes without stopping. Don’t worry about spelling or grammar. Don’t concern yourself with logistics or responsibilities. Just let the answers unfold gently.

Afterwards, read it over. This is a guide for what ease looks like for you. What one small thing can you take from it and put into practice?

The Real Work: Choosing Simplicity

Ease and simplicity are my guiding words right now. They are influencing everything from how I show up in my work to how I care for myself.

Even small choices like letting my hair go grey are part of this shift. I’m tired of overcomplicating things that don’t need to be complicated. I’m finding clarity in what feels good and sustainable and letting the rest fall away.

Looking For a Speaker or a Host?

If you are looking for someone to speak about the power of stories or to lead writing workshops that create safety and excitement, I’d love to talk.

Reach out here.

Erica Richmond is an author, speaker, and founder of Open Sky Stories. Follow along by signing up for her weekly-ish newsletter.