One-Day Writing and Story Intensive

Led by Lorien McKenna, this focused one-day story and writing intensive is for writers of all levels.

During the day, we will move between guided writing exercises and prompts, craft discussions on story focusing on character want as story engine, and examining creative process.

You'll leave with new pages, a deeper connection to your story, a clearer understanding of your process, and a realistic plan to move forward.  And new writing community!

Date: Sunday, August 2, 2026

Time: 10am - 5pm pst

What to bring/prepare: Bring a pen/pencil and paper. Wear comfortable clothes (be prepared to take off your shoes).

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Provided: Light breakfast, all-day coffee and snacks. 

Bring your own lunch or explore what downtown Burbank has to offer.

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Location: Inspire Burbank Marital Arts in Burbank, CA.

Writing, like martial arts, is built through discipline, consistency, and practice over perfection.

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Price: $499* per Writer 

limited to 15 writers

ANSWERS TO QUESTIONS YOU MIGHT HAVE

-You can be an experienced writer or brand new to the idea of writing. You can be transitioning from one format to another.

-You can be on your 15th draft or have an idea you want to explore.

-You don't have to submit a script or fill out an application.

-I will be focusing on screenwriting and character want in terms of craft and story structure, but it should apply to most other mediums of story telling.

-You will not be asked to read anything out loud. You will not be asked to particpate if you don't want to.

-Some of this work can be deeply personal and vulnerable. I will never ask you to go to a place you aren't comfortable. I work hard to create a safe place for everyone.

-There are no grades. You cannot do this wrong. I am on your side.

Lorien McKenna is an Emmy-nominated television writer and showrunner. She is a former Story Manager at Pixar Animation Studios, where she worked on Up, Brave, Inside Out, and The Good Dinosaur. She was the Showrunner/EP for the emmy-nomimated TAB TIME and was the Co-Executive producer for Curious George. Lorien has developed and written across live-action and animation for NBC, Hulu, Comedy Central, Disney, and Netflix. She is the co-host of The Screenwriting Life podcast and a mentor for writing programs including the Cinestory and Nostos Screenwriting Retreats.

Lorien is known for her work in character-driven storytelling and for helping writers deepen character, clarify story, and build a consistent creative practice.

She holds an MFA in Creative Writing from St. Mary's College and has extensive teaching and mentoring experience in the US and internationally.

Lorien loves chips and is always open to new flavor suggestions.