Teaching & Speaking

Photo of Naomi Cohn teaching while wearing a green shawl. She gestures with her hands while group of writers listen to her while seated at a round table.

I work with people at all levels of experience, from someone writing their first poem or grant application to seasoned teaching professionals learning how to bring their work to a new audience.

In my writing workshops, I love:

  • connecting people to their muse through embodied activities, craft learning, and a generative approach.
  • empowering people to share the stories that matter to them.
  • offering ways writing can create wholeness in ourselves and our communities.

My teaching approach builds on my expertise as a writer, training as a family therapist, and background in community organizing. 

Photo by Abi Phillips

I’ve also been a speaker, trainer, and presenter on a wide range of topics including:

  • Strategic direction and fundraising
  • Access and inclusion in teaching
  • Emotional aspects of money and finances
  • Professional writing
  • Professional development for artists

Please reach out to learn more about hosting a writing workshop, training, or other speaking engagement.

Previous Classes I’ve Taught

This four-minute video made by FilmNorth’s JuiceMedia Collective shows a Known by Heart workshop in action.
  • League of Minnesota Poets/Witness Writers, workshop (virtual), “Supporting Your Work,” December 14, 2024
  • Walk the Walk, Generative writing workshops (virtual) and one-on-one artist mentoring sessions, funded by a 2021 Metropolitan Regional Arts Council Grant, 2022
  • Write On, Door County,  Fish Creek, WI. “Minding the World,” generative writing and mindfulness workshop, February 18, 2023
  • Bainbridge Artisan Resource Network, Bainbridge Island, WA. Nature writing and mindfulness workshop, November 6, 2022
  • COMPAS Teaching Artist Roster 2016–present
    • Sample partner sites: Avivo, Abiitan Mill City, Minneapolis, MN; Cerenity, Ebenezer Nine Mile Senior Living, Bloomington; Fraser, multiple locations.