This is a workshop recording of workshop #2 in the "From Spark to Story" workshop series.
A step-by-step workshop series guiding writers from first idea to finished, shareable work — including drafting, editing, and paths to publication. This is a recording of a workshop led by Gentry Bronson, an award-winning published author, writing coach, and instructor who leads both in-person and virtual workshops. This session is the second installment in the From Spark to Story workshop series. To learn more about the other workshops in the series, please see the information below.
Building an Outline: Workshop #2 in the "From Spark to Story" Workshop Series
Every strong piece of writing needs a shape — a path for the reader to follow, and a structure that supports the story you’re trying to tell.
In this next session, literary coach Gentry Bronson will guide you in building an outline that brings clarity and direction to your work. Whether you’re starting from a fresh idea or continuing from your concept, this workshop will help you organize your thoughts into a framework you can actually write from.
Together we’ll explore:
Different approaches to outlining — from loose frameworks to detailed roadmaps
Finding a structure that fits your story (not forcing your story into one)
How to organize scenes, moments, or ideas into a clear narrative flow
Beginning, middle, and end — and what each part needs to do
Creating momentum, tension, and progression
Balancing planning with creative freedom
How to use your outline as a tool — not a limitation
You don’t need a finished draft — just a starting point and a willingness to shape it.
About the Series — From Spark to Story
This workshop is the first in an ongoing step-by-step writing path. Attend a single session or continue through the full creative arc:
#1: What’s Your Concept? — shaping the core idea
#2: Building an Outline — creating structure that works for you
#3: Writing the First Draft — drafting from your outline
#4: Craft & Editing — refining language, pacing, and clarity
#5: Polishing the Work — preparing a submission-ready piece
#6: Traditional Publishing — agents, proposals, and queries
#7: Self-Publishing — formatting, design, and distribution
#8: Writing Online — Substack, blogs, and digital audiences
#9: Author Platform — building readership and creative presence
Writers may attend individual workshops or follow the full series from idea to publication.
About the Instructor — Gentry Bronson
Gentry Bronson is a creative professional, touring musician, and literary coach who helps artists shape ideas into finished work. A classically trained pianist in his youth, Bronson later became a songwriter, bandleader, and recording artist, writing and producing more than 100 original compositions across multiple albums and touring throughout the U.S., Europe, and Mexico. His work has received songwriting awards and appeared in film, radio, and collaborative media projects. Alongside his work in digital production, Bronson has built a career guiding creatives through the process of developing meaningful projects. As a writer, he has published more than 70 essays and stories across platforms including Medium, The Memoirist Quarterly, and his Substack The Key of G. His workshops focus on clarity, momentum, and helping writers move from inspiration to completion. Learn more at gentrybronson.com.
