Xenia, OH – Writers at every stage of their journey are invited to take a candid look at what it truly means to earn a living through writing during The Living Writer with Gery Deer, scheduled for Saturday, January 10, 2026, from 12 noon to 1:30 p.m. at the Xenia Community Library, 76 East Market Street.

Presented by Gery Deer, founder of GLD Communications and an award-winning journalist, copywriter and creative director, the workshop is designed to pull back the curtain on the often-misunderstood world of professional writing. Deer, who has presented versions of this workshop at writing conferences and retreats throughout the Midwest, brings decades of real-world experience to the discussion — including a career that spans journalism, marketing, ghostwriting and creative services.

“This is not a romanticized version of the writing life,” Deer said. “It’s honest, practical and, I hope, encouraging. I’ve heard some of my fellow writers say that being a writer for a living is like having homework every day for the rest of your life. I like to add — unless you love it — to that statement.”

The Living Writer offers participants a guided tour through the many paths available to today’s writers, from traditional journalism and freelance features to technical writing, corporate communications and even game storytelling. Deer emphasizes that there is no single “correct” path, but rather an opportunity for writers to identify their niche and align it with their skills, interests and background.

A key focus of the workshop is helping writers understand why businesses need writers — and how those writers can position themselves as valuable problem-solvers rather than commodity word producers. Attendees will learn how to market themselves effectively, build a professional portfolio and avoid the trap of low-paying gigs that can derail a sustainable career.

The realities of freelance life are also addressed head-on. Deer discusses project workflows, client expectations, payment timelines and how writers can set rates that reflect both their experience and the value they bring to a project. In addition, the workshop explores the growing role of artificial intelligence in writing, examining how AI can be used as a supportive tool while underscoring the importance of human creativity, judgment and voice.

Participants will leave with actionable exercises designed to strengthen their marketing writing, along with trusted resources to help launch or elevate a writing career. Deer, who authors the long-running op-ed series, “Deer In Headlines,” also shares personal insights from decades in the field, including lessons learned along the way and the perspective gained from a Pulitzer Prize nomination.

The January workshop is a condensed version of a comprehensive four-hour program that Deer offers independently each spring, making it an accessible introduction for those curious about professional writing or looking to refine their approach. Seating is limited.

Whether attendees dream of seeing their byline in print or prefer working behind the scenes helping organizations tell their stories, The Living Writer aims to provide both inspiration and strategy — and a clearer picture of how writing can move from passion to profession. Seating for this session is limited. For more information or to register, visit www.gldworkshops.com or contact Lauren at the Xenia Library at 937-352-4000 or by email at lsmallwood@gcpl.lib.oh.us.