Below is a list of our Panel and Workshop Programming for 2026, as well as special sessions and events!

Imaginarium 2026 will features over 135 Panels and Workshops, in addition to other special events and activities. This page will be updated regularly as programming is added, so be sure to check back regularly!

See the topics and descriptions for each category!

Panels are listed first, followed by all the workshops.

Read through topics and descriptions, with presenters for Workshops included.

Access all of our programming with an Imaginarium 2026 Event Ticket!

To get Registered for Imaginarium 2026 With Event Tickets, please visit: https://www.entertheimaginarium.com/2026-event-tickets/

Panels

Writing and Publishing Panels

AI: From “Will it Replace Us?” to “How Do I Use It?”: Moderator – TBA. This panel explores the ethical “Human in the Loop” approach to AI, focusing on how authors can use these tools to enhance outlining, marketing copy, and social media campaigns rather than replacing the human spark of the prose itself. We will discuss protecting your digital identity, navigating the current copyright landscape, and maintaining your creative voice in an increasingly automated industry. (60 min)

An Interactive Worldbuilding Jam: Moderator – TBA. This isn’t just a discussion, it’s a live construction project. In this high-energy session, the audience and panelists will work together to build a brand new setting from scratch in 60 minutes. We’ll start with a random prompt and collectively decide on the laws of physics, the magic or tech systems, the societal hierarchies, and the “inciting incident” that makes the world ripe for a story. Learn the professional techniques for “logical worldbuilding,” while seeing how a simple idea can evolve into a complex, living universe. (60 min)

Beyond the Beats: Exploring Non-Linear and Alternative Story Structures: Moderator – Tba. Tired of the standard three-act setup? This panel moves past the basics to explore advanced and unconventional narrative frameworks. We will discuss structures like the Kishōtenketsu (four-act Japanese structure), In Medias Res storytelling, the use of parallel timelines, and how to effectively structure episodic or multi-viewpoint narratives. Learn how to break the rules with the intention of creating complex, engaging, and unique reading experiences.

Breathing Life into Tired Tropes: Moderator – TBA. Tired of the same old storylines? This panel explores how to take classic tropes and give them a fresh, modern twist. Our experts will discuss common clichés across various genres and share strategies for subverting expectations to create stories that feel both familiar and surprisingly new. Learn how to use the ‘familiar’ as a springboard for original storytelling that keeps readers guessing. (60 min)

Building and Sustaining a Successful Writing Group: Moderator -TBA. Writing is a solitary act, but a career is built on community. This panel explores how to find, form, and maintain a writing group that actually works. We’ll discuss the different models, from strict critique circles to “silent writing” sprints, and how to navigate the delicate balance of giving and receiving feedback. Our experts will share tips on setting ground rules, handling creative friction, and using your group not just for editing, but for long-term emotional support and professional accountability. (60 min)

Building Irresistible Chemistry in Romance: Moderator – TBA. What makes a reader stay up until 3:00 AM for a Happily Ever After? This panel dives into the mechanics of romantic tension, from the initial meet to the final emotional payoff. Our experts will discuss how to balance internal conflict with external stakes, the nuances of different heat levels (from sweet to scandalous), and the importance of diverse representation in modern romance. Whether you write contemporary, historical, or paranormal, learn the secrets to crafting couples that readers will root for until the very last page. (60 min)

Bulletproofing Your Plot: Building Inconsistency-Free Worlds: Moderator – TBA. The best way to fix a plot hole is to never fall into one. This panel dives into the structural foundations that keep a story airtight. We will discuss the importance of story bibles, character dossiers, and detailed outlines in maintaining continuity. Whether you are writing a complex high-fantasy epic or a tight locked-room mystery, learn the organizational habits and world-building “checks and balances” that ensure your plot remains water-tight from page one to the end.

Crafting and Connecting Through Poetry: Moderator – TBA. Our experts will explore the balance of rhythm and imagery, the technical challenges of different poetic forms (from Haikus to Sonnets), and how to navigate the modern path to publication. Whether you are writing for the stage or the page, learn how to sharpen your voice and connect with today’s audience. (60 min)

Crafting Irresistible Romance Arcs: Moderator – TBA. Romance is more than just a “happily ever after”. It is about the emotional journey, the mounting tension, and the authentic connection between characters. This panel dives into the mechanics of building a compelling romance across various sub-genres, from sweet contemporary to spicy historicals and paranormal pairings. Learn how to balance external plot stakes with internal emotional growth, master the “slow burn,” and navigate the evolving expectations of modern romance readers. (60 min)

Crafting Stories for the Next Generation: Moderator – TBA. This panel explores the nuances of different age categories (Picture Books, Middle Grade, and YA), discusses how to handle sensitive topics with age-appropriate realism, and offers strategies for creating characters that young readers will truly connect with. Whether you are writing whimsical adventures or gritty teen dramas, learn how to find your voice in the world of children’s literature. (60 min)

Creative Writing Through Grief and Trauma: Moderator – TBA. This panel explores how to navigate the writing process during times of grief and trauma, and how storytelling can serve as a path toward healing and resilience. (60 min)

Direct to Consumer (D2C) Mastery: Moderator – TBA. This panel dives into the strategies for bypassing traditional retailers and selling directly to your readers. Our experts will discuss the mechanics of personal website stores, subscription models like Patreon and Substack, and how to use short-form video (TikTok/Reels) as an e-commerce engine rather than just a discovery tool. Learn how to turn “followers” into a dedicated, direct customer base. (60 min)

Double Trouble: Crafting Iconic and Dynamic Duos: Moderator – TBA. From Holmes and Watson to Dunk and Egg to modern-day partners-in-crime, the “Dynamic Duo” is a cornerstone of storytelling. This panel explores how to build chemistry, balance contrasting personalities, and use dialogue to create a partnership that is more than the sum of its parts. (60 min)

Echoes & Ink / An Open Reading and Poetry Session: Moderator – TBA. Step into the spotlight or settle in to listen at our “Echoes & Ink” session—a dedicated space for voices of all genres. Whether you’re a seasoned poet, a novelist with a gripping new chapter, or a flash-fiction enthusiast, this is your platform to share your craft with a supportive community of fellow creatives. Sign-ups are first-come, first-served at the start of the session. Come celebrate the spoken word, discover your new favorite author, and experience the raw power of storytelling in its purest form. There will be a 5-minute time limit. Please be respectful and do not go over if others are left to read.

From Muskets to Manuscripts: Chronicling the Birth of the Republic: Moderator – TBA. This panel explores the unique challenges and rewards of writing historical fiction set during the American Revolution and the early Federal period. We will discuss how to balance factual accuracy with compelling narrative, finding “untold” stories within well-known history, and capturing the authentic voice of a nation in its infancy. (60 min)

Future-Proofing Your Career: The Multi-Platform Creator. – TBA. This panel explores the lucrative and creatively fulfilling world of narrative diversification. Our experts will discuss how to translate your storytelling skills into high-growth sectors. From writing for tabletop and video games to highlighting the immersive world-building seen in major studios, and mastering the nuances of audio-first storytelling and scriptwriting. Learn how to leverage your existing IP across multiple formats, navigate new licensing landscapes, and ensure your creative voice remains indispensable in a digital-first economy. (60 min)

Gears, Goggles, and Gaslight: The Steampunk Aesthetic: Moderator – TBA. This session will cover the craft of building retrofuturistic worlds where Victorian aesthetics meet advanced steampowered technology. We will discuss the “Punk” in Steampunk: exploring themes of social commentary, colonialism, and the Industrial Revolution, alongside the technical challenge of writing “Analog Sci-Fi.” Whether you are writing a sky-pirate adventure or a clockwork mystery, learn how to keep your world-building grounded while reaching for the clouds. (60 min)

Grimoires and Gravy: Moderated by Michael Knost. Join our panel of deep south authors that will include KB Carlisle, Jesse James Fain, Logan Stovall, and Michael LaVoice as they discuss southern culture and how it melds with fiction. From iconic characters to burgeoning new subgenres and humor to heritage. By the end, a few surprises might even be revealed. (60 min)

Has Ireland become the new Transylvania? Evolving Vampire Origins: Moderators – Dan Klefstad and Eva Vertrice. More and more, the world’s most famous vampires are trading the dark forests of Transylvania for the Emerald Isle. From Angel’s iconic Claddagh ring and Cassidy’s Dublin grit in Preacher to the jig-dancing Vamp Remmick in Sinners, modern vampire lore has an increasingly Irish accent. Considering Dracula author Bram Stoker was Irish and pulled heavily from Celtic legends, perhaps the shift is overdue. Join Vamp Chat hosts Eva Vertrice and Dan Klefstad for some good craic as they explore how Ireland is staking its claim as the true cradle of the modern vampire. (60 min)

Horrific SciFi: Moderated by Scott Sigler. In the tradition of ALIEN, the Blob and the Thing, how does using science fiction tropes, as opposed to the supernatural, create such a unique flavor of fear?

Horror and Humor: Two Sides of the Same Coin. Moderator – James Sabata. Laughter and screams go hand in hand. Horror and Humor thrive on tension, timing, and surprise. This panel explores how humor sharpens horror, how horror fuels absurd comedy, and why horror‑comedy is surging back into the spotlight. (60 min)

Humor on the Page vs Humor on the Stage: Moderator – Brent Terhune. It never hurts to be a little funny, but how do you actually BE funny? This panel will deal with writing funny for the page as well as live performance. Also, joke construction, the writing process and how to deal with bombing. (60 min)

Legends & Lattes: The Rise of Cozy Fantasy & Low-Stakes Storytelling. Moderator TBA. We’ll discuss the art of “Low Stakes, High Comfort” storytelling, where the goal is building a community or opening a shop rather than saving the world from an ancient evil. Our experts will dive into the mechanics of building warmth, the importance of sensory atmosphere (and coffee!), and how to maintain narrative tension when your protagonist just wants a peaceful life. (60 min)

Live Round Table Pitch Session: This panel gives authors a rare, direct pipeline to publishing professionals, while offering the audience a transparent look at what makes a book hook work in the real world. Come ready to read an example of your unpublished work. (90 min)

Mastering the Magazine and Periodical Market: Moderator – TBA. In this panel, we will discuss the current professional landscape of non-fiction and fiction periodical and magazine publishing. Our experts will discuss the anatomy of a perfect pitch, the differences between writing for digital vs. print publications, and how to build lasting relationships with editors. Whether you’re interested in investigative journalism, hobbyist journals, or literary magazines, learn the strategies needed to break into these markets and stay there. (60 min)

“Micro Publishing” and Niche Nonfiction: Moderator – TBA. The “one big book” model is evolving. This panel explores the rise of micro-publishing: the art of producing short, highly targeted nonfiction guides (20-50 pages) that solve specific problems for a niche audience. We will discuss how to identify underserved markets, the logistics of creating supplementary workbooks and journals, and strategies for using these “microbooks” as powerful lead magnets or steady streams of passive income. (60 min)

Mind the Gap: Identifying and Closing Plot Holes. Moderator – TBA. You’ve finished your draft, but something doesn’t add up. Why didn’t the protagonist use their powers in Chapter 5? How did the villain get from London to Paris in twenty minutes? This panel focuses on the diagnostic side of editing. Learn how to track timelines, map out character motivations, and use “logic passes” to find inconsistencies before your readers do. Our panelists will share their favorite methods for patching narrative leaks without having to rewrite the entire book from scratch.

Navigating Publishing Scams: Moderator – TBA. As the self-publishing industry matures, so do the tactics of predatory “service providers.” From AI-generated “editing” to the hijacking of legitimate publisher imprints, to outright pressuring and harassment, authors are being targeted at record rates when it comes to editing services, book marketing/promotion, cover art and illustration services, and more. This panel brings together industry freelance editors, illustrators, publishers, and veteran authors to dissect the anatomy of a scam. Attendees will learn how to vet freelancers, identify the psychological triggers used in predatory outreach, and protect their intellectual property and finances in an increasingly complex digital landscape. (60 min)

Navigating Sensitive Topics In Your Writing: Moderator – TBA. Panelists will discuss how to navigate controversial and sensitive topics in fiction with cultural sensitivity and realism, without self-censorship or offending a mass audience. (60 min)

Navigating the New Age of Young Adult Fiction: Moderator – TBA. This panel explores how to navigate the shift from classic tropes to high-stakes YA thrillers, speculative romance, and contemporary social commentary. We will discuss the nuances of writing for today’s sophisticated teen audience, balancing age-appropriate realism with commercial appeal, and how to stand out in an increasingly crowded market. (60 min)

Realism in Fiction (Even Speculative Fiction): Moderator – TBA. A discussion on keeping your writing authentic, covering topics from accurate descriptions of injuries (flesh wounds are truly painful) to integrating real-world physics or logic into fictional settings. Bringing stronger realism your writing is a big part of suspending disbelief!

Researching Clothing & Setting for Historical Realism: Moderator – TBA. For historical and creative writers, the difference between an immersive world and a flat one often lies in the details, the weight of a wool cloak, the specific scent of a 19th-century street, or the logistics of getting dressed without modern fasteners. This panel explores the detective work of historical research. Our experts will discuss how to move beyond Wikipedia to find authentic sensory details, the best resources for period-correct costuming, and how to weave these facts into your narrative without stalling the plot with an info dump. (60 min)

Self-Publishing vs. Traditional Publishing: Moderator – TBA. Is the prestige of a Big Five contract worth the loss of creative control? Or is the total freedom of self-publishing a burden in disguise? This panel brings together experts from both sides of the industry to weigh the pros and cons. We’ll dive into the realities of royalty rates, marketing responsibilities, distribution networks, and the hybrid middle ground. Whether you’re looking for a literary agent or preparing to hit publish on Amazon, our panelists will help you navigate the 2026 publishing landscape. (60 min)

Sequential Storytelling: The Architecture of Comics and Graphic Novels: Moderator – TBA. This discussion explores the “architecture” of a script, how to balance narrative pacing with visual layout, the critical collaboration between writer and illustrator, and the nuances of the “Marvel Method” versus full-script writing. Our experts will discuss how to build immersive worlds in a limited number of panels, the importance of “page turns” and cliffhangers, and how to effectively pitch your visual story to publishers and agents in the 2026 market. (60 min)

Slushfest: Moderator – Barbara V. Evers. Writers anonymously submit the first page, double-spaced, of a work in progress. It’s read aloud, and panelists (agents, publishers, editors, authors) raise their hands at the point when they would stop reading. Once half the hands are raised, we will stop and give feedback. (90 min)

Talk is Cheap: Subtext, Dialect, and the Unspoken: Moderator – TBA. Discover the power of “Inverse Dialogue,” where what is left unsaid is more important than the words on the page. This panel covers the mechanics of subtext, the effective use of regional dialect, and how to create a “voice” that reveals character through both speech and silence. (60 min)

Technical Writing: A Path to Becoming an Author and Speaker: Moderator – D. Mark Haynes. This presentation is designed as an open discussion about the journey of becoming a technical writer. The goal is to provide a realistic and practical overview for those interested in the field, moving beyond common misconceptions. The session will cover the business and creative aspects of the profession, including finding a publisher and audience. (60 min)

The Anatomy of a Cold Case: Structuring and Researching True Crime: Moderator – TBA. What makes a True Crime narrative unputdownable? This panel explores the unique challenges of transforming complex facts, interviews, and police reports into a gripping story. Learn essential techniques for deep archival research, structuring a compelling timeline, managing overwhelming data, and using narrative tools (like suspense and characterization) while adhering to factual rigor. Whether you are writing non-fiction, a fictionalized mystery, or a podcast script, learn how to build a case that keeps readers turning pages.

The Architecture of Anxiety: Crafting Unputdownable Thrillers: Moderator – TBA. What is the difference between a mystery that is “interesting” and a thriller that keeps a reader up until 3:00 AM? This panel deconstructs the mechanics of tension. We will discuss the “Ticking Clock” technique, the ethics of the Red Herring, and how to build a protagonist who is competent enough to solve the crime but vulnerable enough to stay in danger. (60 min)

The Art of Cross-Genre Writing: Moderator – TBA. The Art of Cross Genre Writing. This discussion will cover the technical and marketing challenges of blending distinct genres, like a “System Apocalypse” Western or a “Historical Romantasy.” Our experts will discuss how to satisfy the core expectations of multiple audiences simultaneously, avoid “tonal whiplash,” and effectively pitch a “mashup” story to agents and publishers who might be looking for a single shelf to put it on. (60 min)

The Craft of Short Story Writing: Moderator – TBA. Join these seasoned authors as they discuss the art of the short story and the novella. This panel explores how to build immersive worlds in limited word counts, whether you’re navigating the supernatural streets of a modern city or the dusty trails of the Old West. (60 min)

The Evolving Craft of 21st Century Writing: Moderator – TBA. This panel explores the cutting-edge craft techniques required to thrive in a “Too Long; Didn’t Read” culture. From mastering “Minimum Viable Exposition” to balancing the emotional depth of “Hopepunk” and “Romantasy,” our experts will discuss how to structure stories for modern consumption without sacrificing literary quality. Learn how to use “episodic” pacing in full-length novels and how to maintain an authentic human voice in a world of AI-assisted drafting. (60 min)

The Future of Creative Integrity: Moderator – Chad Elliott. This panel moves beyond the how-to of AI and dives into the what now, for the creative industry. As automation accelerates, how do we protect human expression and the environment that sustains it? Join us for a forward-looking discussion on the practical steps creatives can take to advocate for regulation, the long-term impact of generative tools on critical thinking, and the often-overlooked environmental costs of the AI revolution. (90 min)

The Imposter in the Room: Overcoming Self-Doubt and the “Fraud” Factor: Moderator – TBA. This panel brings together creatives from across the spectrum: authors, filmmakers, and artists, to discuss the reality of imposter syndrome. Our experts will share their personal battles with self-doubt, practical “mental health” toolkits for the creative life, and strategies for shifting your focus from external validation to the intrinsic value of your craft. (60 min)

The Mechanics of Faith: Moderator – TBA. Understanding the difference between Theology (what they believe), Ritual (what they do), and Culture (how they live). A religion doesn’t involve just prayer; it’s dates on a calendar, a specific diet, and a social hierarchy. (60 min)

The Romantasy Revolution: Blending Magic and Heart: Moderator – TBA. We will explore the delicate balance of high-stakes world-building and intimate character arcs. Our experts will discuss the “Rules of Magic” vs. the “Rules of Attraction,” the evolution of the “Chosen One” trope into “Found Family” romance, and how to navigate the spicy to sweet spectrum while maintaining narrative tension. Whether you’re writing about fae courts, star-crossed sorcerers, or urban fantasy flings, learn how to craft a story where the magic is as real as the love. (60 min)

The SF Ethics of the Future: Moderator – TBA. Good SF doesn’t just predict the car; it predicts the traffic jam. We will discuss how to handle the “dark side” of progress and writing about dystopias vs. Utopias or “solarpunk” (optimistic futures). (60 min)

The Story of Amelia: The Largest Self-Own In History and How She’s Changed the World: Moderator – Clayton Barnett. This panel takes a deep dive into the fascinating and often misunderstood legacy of Amelia. We explore the pivotal moments that defined her journey—specifically the “largest self-own in history”—and analyze how those very instances of vulnerability or error sparked global change. Join our panelists as they discuss the intersection of personal failure and historical impact, revealing how one individual’s narrative shifted the world’s perspective forever. (60 min)

What Indie Booksellers Wish Authors Knew: Moderator TBA. Demystifying how brick-and-mortar bookstores select inventory, organize local author events, and build community partnerships. This panel will feature several bookstore owners! (60 min)

Writing Neurodivergent Characters: Moderator – Diana Morgan. It’s becoming more common to see autistic, ADHD, and other neurodivergent characters in fiction. How do we include people with these brain differences without falling into bad stereotypes? How do you craft a believable character when their traits exist on a spectrum? A panel of writers discusses various approaches and ways to learn how to craft believable characters.

Writing Stories of Transformation and Community: Moderator TBA. In this panel, we will explore how to build stories where characters face brutal, realistic adversity but ultimately triumph through collective action, resilience, and meaningful personal evolution. (60 min)

Writing the Frontier: Grit, Justice, and the Modern Western: Moderator – TBA. This panel explores the essential elements of the Western, from building atmospheric landscapes and authentic dialogue to mastering the “code of the West.” Our experts will discuss how to balance historical accuracy with compelling narrative tension, the rise of “Weird West” and historical crossovers, and how to keep the frontier spirit alive for a new generation of readers. (60 min)

Content Creation, Social Media, and Podcasting Panels

Filmmaking and Screenwriting Panels

9:16 Vision: The Art of Vertical & Short Form Cinema: Moderator – TBA. Let’s explore how to treat the 9:16 frame as a legitimate artistic canvas rather than just a marketing tool. Our experts will discuss the “Haiku of Cinema,” crafting high-impact emotional hooks in under 60 seconds, and the technical challenges of vertical composition, lighting, and sound design for mobile-first audiences. From shorts to viral microdramas, learn how to capture that “thumb stop” moment. (60 min)

Action! How to Break into Independent Film Acting: Moderator TBA. We will discuss the indie casting process, navigating self-tapes on a budget, building a portfolio from scratch, and handling the realities of indie sets.

Authenticity & Representation in Film and Television: Moderator – TBA. A discussion on telling Global stories with authenticity. We will talk about cultural sensitivity, casting, and maintaining diverse voices in film and television projects set in different historical periods or countries. (60 min)

Telling Bold Stories in a Restricted World: Moderator – TBA. This panel explores the state of freedom of expression in the 2026 film landscape, moving from traditional government restrictions to the “quiet” censorship of digital algorithms and self-regulation. We will discuss the impact of “shadow banning” on independent film marketing, the legalities of the Digital Services Act (DSA), and strategies for protecting your First Amendment rights while still reaching a global audience. (60 min)

The Producer’s Playbook: Funding and Packaging Your Indie Film: Moderator – TBA. This panel explores the business of independent cinema, from crafting a bulletproof business plan and identifying tax incentives to the art of “packaging” (securing key talent or locations to attract investors), how to bridge the gap between a creative vision and a commercially viable product, and protecting your intellectual property during the development phase. (60 min)

Tech, TV, & Cinema: Moderator – TBA. We will explore the use of emerging new tools and formats in the world of visual storytelling, such as VR, AI, and Immersive Storytelling. This discussion will include the impact of new technologies on film and television production, and content creation.

The Pilot Puzzle: Structuring for Television and Streaming: Presenter – TBA. Writing for the small screen requires a completely different structural approach than a feature film. This panel dives into the world of A, B, and C stories, act breaks for commercials versus “binge” structures for streaming, and how to build an “Engine” that can sustain multiple seasons. Learn how to map out a pilot that effectively introduces a world while establishing a structural “hook” that leaves the audience wanting more. – Since screenwriting is a visual medium, panelists are encouraged to bring “Beat Sheet” examples from famous movies (like Star Wars or Parasite) to help the audience visualize the structural points they are discussing! Key Topics: Multi-thread plotting, seasonal arcs, and the “Hook-and-Cliffhanger” method.

Scene, Sequence, Story: Building Visual Momentum: Presenter – TBA. Screenplays are blueprints for images, not just dialogue. This panel explores the Sequence Method—breaking your script into eight 10-to-15-minute “mini-movies” to maintain tension. Learn how to structure individual scenes for maximum visual impact, how to use “white space” on the page to control pacing, and why the visual arc of a character is just as important as the plot structure. – Key Topics: The Sequence Method, pacing through formatting, and visual plant-and-payoff.

Gaming Panels

coming soon…

Miscellaneous, Art, Cosplay, and Pop Culture Panels

A Match Made in Hell. Moderator – James Sabata. Horror and wrestling should be a perfect tag team—but more often than not, the pairing goes off the rails. This panel digs into why horror rarely lands in the ring, how promoters misunderstand the genre, and what it would take to make the scares hit as hard as the suplexes.

Cosplay 101: Crafting & Character: Moderator – Da’Rell Miller. Cosplay is more than just a costume. It is a way to express your fandom and share it with the world. This panel covers the practical steps of becoming a cosplayer, including construction tips and performance basics. Come with questions and leave with the inspiration to start your next build! (60 min)

Horrors Against Humanity: Moderator – James Sabata. Hello, horror fan. I want to play a game. The rules are simple. In this horror-themed version of Cards Against Humanity, we will read questions from black cards, and authors/panelists will answer with white cards. You will judge each round and help declare a winner. Rated PG13

Nuclear Heat: Moderator – James Sabata. Do you think Demolition was superior to the Road Warriors? Should Sami Zayn have ended Roman’s title run? Would you defend putting the title on David Arquette? Was the Dark Order the greatest faction of all time? JOIN US as panelists make surprisingly bold statements and attempt to convince you that we’re right. Cheer your favorites, boo the baddies, and feel free to let us know if you think we botch something. (90 min+)

The Art of Illustrating Literature: Moderator – TBA. In the world of literature, an illustration is more than just a decoration; it is an extension of the narrative. This panel brings together illustrators, authors, and designers to discuss the collaborative process of bringing words to life. Learn how to interpret a writer’s vision, the technical requirements of different publishing formats, and how visual storytelling can deepen the impact of the written word. (60 min)

The Great Debate: Vampires vs. Werewolves: Moderator – Da’Rell Miller. Fangs or claws? Sophistication or strength? We’re breaking down the best (and worst) of vampire and werewolf fandom in a fun, interactive debate. We’ll look at lore, movies, and TV series to settle the score once and for all. Audience members are invited to share their takes and help crown a winner! (60 min)

The Mystery Wrestling Experience: Moderator – James Sabata. Mystery Wrestling is a professional wrestling show built entirely around surprise. The audience never knows who will appear or what bizarre stipulation might unfold next. Just like you don’t know who the panellists will be or what you’ll learn about this amazing federation until you’re there. Luchador masks are highly encouraged. (60 min)

Music Panels

Crafting Songs for Story and Stage: Moderator – TBA. This panel dives into the craft of songwriting from a writer’s perspective. Whether you are writing lyrics to be read on a page in a novel or composed for a musical score, learn how to balance meter and rhyme with emotional resonance. Our experts will discuss the technical transition from prose to poetry and how to write “performable” lyrics that capture a reader’s or listener’s imagination. (60 min)

The Soundtrack to the Story: Crafting Book Playlists: Moderator – TBA. This panel discusses the art of “scoring” your novel. Our experts, who are both musicians and authors, will explore how to curate tracks that mirror your book’s emotional beats, the legalities of sharing playlists on Spotify or YouTube, and how to use music as a powerful tool for building atmosphere and marketing your work to readers. (60 min)

Workshops

Writing and Publishing Workshops

Accounting for Creatives: Presented by James O. Barnes. For some creatives, the items they produce are purely for the love of creating something. For others, it is with the intent to make money from it. If you are a Creative in any way, there’s a good chance you have spent your own money. If you are an author, editor, illustrator, publisher, or a creative of any type selling a product or service, this presentation is for you. Learn what it really means to be a “business” today. Your definition and the government’s may differ. A few things you will learn: Do I have a hobby or a business? Do I even need to start a business? How would I even do that? What if someone has the same name or idea as you? What taxes do you have to pay? What counts as income, and how does it get reported? Can I save money through deductions? Can being a business protect me? Come to the presentation to find out more. Let’s get about the business of being a business.

Adding Intrigue & Action to Your Writing: Presented by Don Bentley. How to add intrigue and action to your writing by crafting effective scenes. We will focus on a scene’s critical elements and anatomy, plotting and pacing, and effective editing.

Amazon’s Coveted #1 Bestseller Flag—How to Achieve one for Your Book!: Presented by A.G. Mock. As readers, we gravitate toward it every time we shop for books. As authors, we aspire to achieve it for our own. What are we talking about? Why, it’s Amazon’s coveted orange “#1 BESTSELLER” banner of course! You may believe only traditionally published authors at one of the Big 5 houses can achieve this career-changing accolade. But in this fun and informative 2-hour course, A.G. Mock guides you through the critical first steps for any serious author to earn the title, “#1 Amazon Bestseller.”

Ask The Agent: Part I: Presenter – Cherry Weiner. Take the guesswork out of the query process! This dynamic session provides a unique platform to directly engage with a literary agent. Ask your most pressing questions about submissions, agent-author relationships, what makes a manuscript stand out, and more. Gain firsthand knowledge and valuable feedback to elevate your publishing aspirations. (2 hrs)

Ask The Agent: Part II: Presenter – Cherry Weiner. A round-up session to get answers to questions that you may have discovered you wanted to ask during the convention and did not get a chance to. Any time left over during this session will be filled in with agent Cherry Weiner’s stories of her journey as an agent, the authors she has met, and anything that might, again, raise questions. (90 min)

Be The 10%: Presenter – Hallee Bridgeman. Agents and editors say that 80%-90% of the submissions they receive aren’t even able to be edited to the point of publication. If you consider that the “best” an author has to submit is what is sent to agents and editors, and that each author believes his or her work is worthy of publication and that a contract is going to result from that submission, then it’s fair to assume that 80%-90% of all self-published books probably weren’t ready for publication. Hallee teaches authors to “Be the 10%”. (60 min)

Beyond the Beards: Reclaiming and Revolutionizing Classic Fantasy Tropes: Presenter – Brian D. Anderson. Fantasy is built on the shoulders of giants like Tolkien, Howard, and Lewis, but how do we make familiar characters and settings feel fresh for the modern reader? This workshop dives into the foundational stereotypes of classic fantasy (the stoic warrior, the damsel, the ancient evil, etc.). We will analyze how these tropes were originally used and, more importantly, how to subvert, rejuvenate, and deepen them through modern characterization, worldbuilding, and thematic exploration. Learn techniques to honor the heritage of your genre while forging entirely new paths.

Build Out Your Book: Make Your Promotion Uniquely Yours: Presenter – Renmeleon. Invent new, creative ways to market your book using alternative approaches to social involvement. Learn to conceptualize and create unique promotional materials your readers will love. Worksheets provided. All attendees will receive thank-you gifts. Led by illustrator, author, and designer Ana Maria Selvaggio, with four decades of professional experience under the name Renmeleon, this one-hour workshop is followed up with an optional one-hour, hands-on group brainstorming session. Come for the workshop and stay for the brainstorming afterward. (2 hrs)

Building Metadata in Ebooks: Presenter – Gregg Bridgeman. Ebooks are basically electronic code. Tapping Gregg’s cybersecurity experience and intellect, he will show how to build metadata in the background of your ebooks to help them become much more discoverable among the millions of other ebooks out there. (60 min)

Crafting Critters: Presenter- Barbara V. Evers. Animals make great characters in books, but how do you pull this off effectively? From children’s books like Frank Baum’s The Wizard of Oz to cozy mysteries like Spencer Quinn’s Chet and Bernie Mysteries to the quirky dog, Six-Thirty, in Bonnie Garmus’ Lessons in Chemistry, amazing animals leap off the page in wonderful narratives. This workshop will delve into how and why you might add animals as characters instead of props. We will look at examples in various genres and discuss:

What must the author do to ensure the animal’s point of view represents an animal instead of a human personality with an animal’s body?

Why do you need animal characters in your story?

How do you decide the role of the animal(s) in your story?

What should you consider when choosing the type/breed of animal?

How will the genre and the protagonist’s role affect the way the animal is portrayed?

What relationships do we see between animal characters and human characters? How do those relationships impact the story?

Crafting Cross-Genre: Presented by Sara Marian. Tired of tropes and ready for a twist? Rules were made to be broken, right? Break out of the genre box in this workshop, where we’ll talk about crafting a good story that takes a reader places they’ve never been before. Whether you’ve already got a cross-genre project in mind or are looking for a new idea, this workshop will provide writing advice for creating the unexpected. Through an informal talk, Q&A, and interactive exercises, we’ll fire up our imaginations and maybe even come up with some novel ideas (pun entirely intended). (60 min)

Create Memorable Characters. Presenter – Rebecka Vigus. Leverage a 3-Step Process to Create Memorable Characters…

Every writer wants to have repeat readers. Readers help put you on the best-selling lists. You want to have characters your readers will remember after the book ends. This will keep them asking for more books, more of the same characters, more of what you have to say.

Leveraging my 60 years of experience, you can use this simple 3-step process to help you create well-rounded characters your audience will adore and want more.

Learning Objectives

Learn to make them likeable, as if you might meet them on the street.

Learn to create well-rounded characters your audience will adore.

Learn to dig deep into their backstories.

(60 min)

Creating a Marketing Plan When You Don’t Have a Marketing Degree: Presenter – Hallee Bridgeman. This class defines what a platform is for an author, discusses how to build a platform and utilize that platform to market your books. It covers newsletters, street teams, social media, and in-person marketing opportunities. We will also go over how to be true to your brand as an author so that your online platform presence is consistent through all networks. (60 min)

Descriptive Writing & Tea: Presented by JL Mulvihill. Show, don’t tell, using all the senses. Have tea and pastries with award-winning author Jen Mulvihill while discussing the use of all the senses when writing. (60 min)

Developing Deep Point of View: Presenter – DiAnn Mills. Deep point of view helps the writer to show rather than tell, but the technique is more about creating a close relationship between the character and reader. One character experiences the scene, and that character takes center stage. The character filters every word of the scene through his/her sensory perception and powerful emotions. This allows the writer to pave the way for the reader to live the scene vicariously through the eyes of the character. The internal dialogue, emotions, and body language must come from the character’s heart and mind, providing the reader with more intimacy. This workshop focuses on the techniques of developing deep point of view and when to use it. Handouts provided. (90 min)

Diversification Strategies to Build an Ironclad Author Career: Presented by Lydia Sherrer. Come learn proven strategies for diversifying your operations and exploiting your IP to the fullest in order to create stability and longevity for your career.

As the independent author industry matures and technology advances to bring more opportunities to individual entrepreneurs, there are a myriad of traditional as well as new and innovative ways for authors to exploit their Intellectual Property, grow their brand, and find new income streams. Join award-winning and USA Today-bestselling author Lydia Sherrer to learn proven strategies for diversifying your operations and exploiting your IP to the fullest in order to create stability and longevity for your career.

Intended audience: Emerging and established authors

By the end, the audience will understand:

-How to balance your core income activities with new diversification opportunities

-What sorts of diversification strategies are available (different media types, publishing avenues, retail platforms, and creative ways of exploiting your writing skills and story IP)

-How to determine what diversification opportunities are right for you

(90 min)

Exploring the Art of Dialogue: Presenter – DiAnn Mills. Writers create dynamic dialogue from characters brimming with personality and wit while revealing inner qualities and moving the plot forward. Our characters have an agenda, and the resulting tension and conflict flairs like gasoline on a fire. Authentic dialogue is rich in character and realistic language. Yet it can’t sound like we speak with pointless filler words and redundancies that toss the reader out of the story. The balance of spot-on, in-character, and purposeful dialogue takes time to master. Quality dialogue is fresh, exciting, rhythmic, paces the scene, oozes with energy and excitement, and always pits characters against each other either directly or indirectly. This workshop focuses on knowing the character to create brilliantly written dialogue as well as techniques to keep the reader engaged. Handouts provided. (60 min)

*Special Presentation* From Royal Scandals to Lost Time: Telling Stories for a Living: Presented by Barry Maher. How does a simple press question lead to you being accused by global media of driving Prince Harry and Meghan Markle out of their home? Join author, syndicated columnist, and 2026 Imadjinn Nominee Barry Maher for a fast-paced, humorous look at the unpredictable world of a professional writing career. Hear the “too-weird-to-be-true” stories behind some of the strangest headlines Barry’s ever generated. He’ll also share the deeply personal turning point when, at the height of a successful speaking career, he lost the ability to tell time, which eventually led him back to his true calling as a novelist. This session explores how the most bizarre obstacles often lead to our best stories. Featuring a lively Q&A with a man who’s written six books, gone through five agents, and has somehow made a very good living telling stories for over twenty-five years.

Guerrilla Marketing: Book Buzz on a Shoestring: Presenter – Chris Enss. Guerrilla marketing is about creativity, not cash, and for authors, it can be the difference between a quiet launch and a memorable one. Instead of expensive ads, writers can create low-cost, high-impact moments that spark curiosity and conversation—bookmark “leave-behinds” in unexpected places, handwritten shelf talkers for indie bookstores, QR codes linking to a free chapter, or a single bold visual that becomes instantly shareable on social media. At conferences, guerrilla tactics thrive: elevator pitches printed on postcards, pop-up readings in hallways, themed swag that ties directly to the book’s hook, or collaborations with fellow authors to cross-promote audiences. The goal isn’t to sell hard; it’s to be unforgettable. When done right, guerrilla marketing turns ingenuity into visibility, and visibility into readers, without draining your wallet. (60 min)

Horror & Comedy: Adding Levity to the Darkness. Presented by Scott Sigler. From the razor-sharp wit of Shaun of the Dead to the irreverent bite of Christopher Moore’s You Suck: A Love Story and the genre-defining balance of Buffy the Vampire Slayer, this solo presentation explores how laughter and fear work together to create stories that hit harder, linger longer, and connect more deeply with audiences.

Why do we laugh in the face of terror? Why do we want that comic relief when we’re scared down to our toenails? Does humor sharpen the horror, or provide a necessary release from it? Scott digs into how comic moments can heighten tension, deepen character, and reinforce theme—whether through gallows humor, absurdity, or perfectly timed one-liners.

This session examines how creators use comedy as both a narrative tool and a psychological bridge, helping audiences process violence, dread, and the unknown without disengaging. We’ll also look at the difference between full horror-comedy and strategic comic relief in otherwise serious stories, and how each approach changes the audience experience. (60 min)

How to Be Creative When All I Want to do is Take a Nap: Presenter – Kimberly Hoffman. Do you struggle to be creative because you are exhausted, either due to physical, mental, social or emotional reasons? This workshop will help you take a breath and find some peace as you learn ways to rediscover your creativity. This workshop is for anyone feeling chronic exhaustion, but especially for those with disabilities or conditions that affect their energy level. (60 min)

Illustrating for Online Presentations: Presenter – Jill Baker. If you are an illustrator, how do you go about discerning the gist of the writer’s imagery and what he or she had in mind when they wrote?
Illustrations for books, magazines and online publications usually takes the form of digital images formatted in either Apple or Microsoft Office programs. Creating the images may take several steps. There are shortcuts to use. Then, what do you do with your images after they are created? When you use Adobe Pro, you must have your text and illustrations in a certain format. Publishers have different specifications and we will look at what those may be in this workshop. (60 min)

Interviewing Your Characters – Unlock Their Deepest Secrets: Presenter – Lynn Tincher. Ever feel like your characters are holding something back? In this interactive workshop, you’ll learn how to “interview” your characters to uncover their hidden depths, motivations, and quirks. Using a structured yet creative approach, we’ll dive into thought-provoking questions that bring characters to life, strengthen dialogue, and enhance storytelling. Whether you’re developing a new character or refining an existing one, this session will help you craft well-rounded, authentic personalities that leap off the page. Come prepared to ask tough questions—your characters might just surprise you! (60 min)

Jungian Psychology (with a little Joseph Campbell thrown in) for Character Development: Presented by Darlene Franklin Campbell. This presentation delves into using Jungian Psychology (with a little Joseph Campbell thrown in) for character development. We will explore the basics of cognitive functions and how they factor into character behavior and motivations. We will then discuss Jungian archetypes and how the hero’s journey might look for different dominant personality traits. What motivates characters, and how can we make those motivations and actions feel real? In essence, we’re going to get inside our characters’ heads and hearts. (90 min)

Marathonarium 4 Premium Short Story Workshop: Presenter – Stephen Zimmer. Get ready for our next 3-Hour Short Story Marathon at Imaginarium 2026, where your completion of a short story gets you published in the fourth volume of our Imaginarium Convention Marathonarium Anthologies!

The Marathonarium 4 workshop will be conducted by award-winning author, editor, and podcaster Stephen Zimmer, and will include a short presentation focusing on marathon-style writing and the craft of writing short stories.

At the end of the presentation, the three-hour creative writing adventure begins!

The presentation will begin at 5 PM on July 16th.

At 5:30 PM, we begin writing.

By 8:30 PM, each participant will transmit his or her story to Stephen for the next steps, which will include editing and time for you to make any needed corrections or revisions to your short story.

Then, the stories will be published in the Marathonarium Anthology Volume 4, which will be released in both print and digital formats, with proceeds supporting the Imaginarium Convention! Stories are non-exclusive, meaning that you will be able to use them right away in any project that you would like!

Note: this is a Premium Exclusive Workshop requiring a small additional fee with a limitation of 18 participants. To register for one of the spaces on this workshop, visit: Marathonarium 4 Premium Workshop Registration Link.

Mastering Facebook Marketing: Presented by David Sherrer. Selling books is tough. Studies show that only 0.06% of authors sell more than 1,000 books in their lifetime.

However, in January alone, we sold 4,737 titles through our Shopify store.

Success in book sales isn’t about luck—it’s about strategy. A good book doesn’t simply find its audience; you have to find the audience for your book. With 60 million books on Amazon, it’s easy to get lost in the shuffle.

Today, I’ll walk you through a proven method to sell books using Facebook ads.

Step 1: Build Great Ads
A compelling ad consists of three main elements:
Images – Eye-catching and relevant to your book’s theme.
Headlines – Short, attention-grabbing, and clearly conveying the book’s value.
Body Text – Persuasive copy that connects with your target audience.

Step 2: Create a High-Converting Sales Page
A dedicated sales page increases conversions by 2x to 3x compared to generic book listings.
Your sales page needs at least a 20% conversion rate. Sales industry standard is 2%.
Key elements of a strong sales page:
Clear book descriptions.
Testimonials or reviews.
A strong call to action.

Step 3: Bundle Your Books for Higher Profits
Bundling books is one of the most effective ways to maximize profitability.
If your books are over 60,000 words, bundle 3 or more together.
If they are under 60,000 words, bundle 5 or more together.
If you don’t have enough books yet, focus on building a fan base instead of immediate profitability. Use strategies like:
Growing a mailing list.
Gathering reader feedback.
Testing the market before investing years in a book series.

Step 4: Implement an Order Bump
Offer additional books at checkout to increase the average order value.
Provide related titles or exclusive content that will keep readers coming back.
A strong order bump strategy requires:
4+ titles (60k+ words each) or 6+ shorter titles (novellas, short stories, etc.).
A compelling reason to buy more, such as a discount on a series bundle.

Step 5: Optimize Your Checkout Page
The platform you use matters. Shopify has the highest conversion rates for e-commerce.
Ensure the checkout process is seamless and fast to reduce cart abandonment.

Step 6: Use Post-Purchase Upsells
After a customer completes their purchase, offer them an exclusive deal.
Make it feel reward-based with messaging like:
“Congratulations! You’ve qualified for a 20% discount on the next trilogy!”
Many customers won’t take the upsell immediately, but they might later if nurtured correctly.

Step 7: Build and Leverage Your Mailing List
A strong email list stabilizes your income when ad performance fluctuates.
Use your email list to:
Send sales codes or discounts.
Introduce new book releases.
Cultivate super fans who will buy everything you publish.
The email platform we use is Klaviyo—it offers powerful automation, like birthday discount codes.
A well-managed email list can generate up to 50% of your total sales!

Conclusion
Selling books isn’t just about writing great stories—it’s about strategic marketing. Follow these six steps to maximize your book sales using Facebook ads. Start with great ads, optimize your sales funnel, and leverage your mailing list to build a sustainable author business. Don’t wait for readers to find your book—actively bring your book to the right readers! (60 min)

Memoir Writing: Presenter – Jill Baker. Memoirs are one of the popular forms of literature today. There are many exciting ways to write a Memoir. You have memorable moments, unforgettable events and a family history that needs to be recorded. Why not start your book off with a bang? In this workshop we will explore many ways to engross your readers in the story of your life. (60 min)

Never Listen To Anyone Offering Advice On How To Be A Writer: Presenter – Aaron Drown. Aimed a small press and independent authors, “Never Listen” is a slideshow-style talk in three parts: “Free Advice is Often Overpriced,” which discusses some of the joys and pains common to being a writer; “How to Pretend You’re a Professional,” a primer about publishing and how to have your best foot forward when engaging with publishers and the general public; and “I Will Totally Judge Your Book by its Cover and So Will Everyone Else,” which presents the importance of design in book publishing. (90 Min)

Pitch to an Agent Session: Presenter – Cherry Weiner. Ready to Pitch? Here is your chance to get your work in front of an industry professional. You have 3–5 minutes to make your mark. Come prepared with your best “elevator pitch” and get your manuscript noticed! Visit the Registration Counter to sign up. Slots vanish fast, so don’t wait! (2 hrs)

Readings From the The Arlan Andrews, Sr. Science Fiction & Fantasy Short Story Challenge: Presenter – Arlan Andrews, Sr. This year, award-winning author, retired engineer and entrepreneur, and Imagination Hall of Fame member Arlan Andrews, Sr. is sponsoring a short fiction contest for Imaginarium 2026 attendees. Between April 1st and June 1st, attendees of the convention may submit one short science fiction or fantasy story per person in standard format, with a 2000-word limit, in MS Word, with awards and cash prizes given at the Awards Banquet. Select stories from this contest will be read aloud by their authors during this special session at Imaginarium. (If you want to see full information on this new contest, visit https://www.entertheimaginarium.com/the-arlan-andrews-sr-science-fiction-fantasy-short-story-challenge/ )

Self-Editing Like A Pro: Presenter – R.C. Reid. Author R.C. Reid takes the audience through many types of basic mistakes and issues (both the simple and the more complex) that a writer should be able to catch themselves to make the job easier and more fruitful for a future professional editor or publisher, or to impress a potential agent. (60 min)

Sizzling Prose: Presenter Ariella Talix. I don’t mean to titillate, but I see this as an important part of romance writing. We will discuss several aspects, such as how steamy to get for the expected audience, how to make a scene seem authentic and romantic, and making sure there is consent, etc. At this point, I’ve written 19 romance novels, both contemporary and historical. Half of those are MMF, so I often deal with multiples. I think it’s important to keep things steamy and tasteful at the same time, but the activities need to match the personalities of the participants. I know a lot of authors are afraid to write these scenes and turn them over to ghostwriters, and it shows. So hopefully this seminar will help get rid of the fear and unlock some creative ideas. (60 min)

Stoker on Stoker Multimedia Presentation: Presenter – Dacre Stoker. Dacre Stoker’s compelling and informative Keynote presentation, Stoker on Stoker, the Mysteries Behind the Research and Writing of Dracula, weaves together the details of Dracula’s history with Stoker family lore, and Bram Stoker’s life in Dublin and London, then separates fact from popular fiction, revealing the truth about all things Stoker and Dracula. Stoker on Stoker has fascinated audiences around the world, exploring the issues behind the mysteries that have baffled Dracula scholars and fans since the book’s publication in 1897. Illustrated with Dacre’s collection of never before published, and seldom-seen historic images. Including these topics: • Bram Stokers notes for the writing of Dracula • Books Bram used for his research from the London Library and Whitby Library • The Dracula Typescript, including what was edited out prior to publishing • Real locations Bram chose to include in Dracula • The location of Bram’s fictional Castle Dracula and other sites mentioned in Transylvania • Bram’s summer holiday in Whitby in 1890 how he incorporated real sites in chapters 6, 7, 8 of Dracula. • Bram in Cruden Bay Scotland, where Bram wrote parts of Dracula • Dr William Thornley Stoker functioned as Bram’s medical advisor to ensure accuracy in his writing of Dracula. (90 min)

The Art of Co-Writing: Presented by K.L. Bone. Whether you are writing with others in a shared world, series, or a single novel, co-writing is a craft unto itself. It requires an intricate trust between authors in order to bring characters and settings to life in a cohesive fashion. This workshop will cover various types of co-writing and different strategies authors implement as they strive to work together to create a shared vision, world, and story.

The workshop is being led by USA Today bestselling author K.L. Bone. In addition to co-authoring the Fairy Tales by Moonlight trilogy with Erin McFadden and the Starbound series with Greg Wilkey, Bone has also released three novels in the multi-author Midnight Coven series, and has participated in multiple anthologies, including a USA Today bestselling collection.

The Poetic Journey: Writing for a Deeper Life: Presenter – Lee Pennington. Create poetry for having a deeper and better life. Poetry wakes the senses, opens the eyes to a clearer world, gives you life gifts you perhaps never dreamed of. Even if you never publish a poem, writing poetry wakes your creative energy to make discovers that bring understanding of the world around you. Of course, sharing your poetry by publishing or giving someone a copy often lifts not only you but also the one who participates in the sharing. This workshop will leave you feeling more positive about yourself and the world around you will be just a bit brighter. And it may just lead to publication.

The Poet’s Guide to Publishing: How to Conceive, Arrange, Edit, Publish, and Market a Book of Poetry: Presented by Katerina Stoykova. This guide to publishing poetry is designed for the poet on a journey from producing a pile of poems to celebrating at a book launch. If you have been writing poetry for some time and have accumulated a volume of work. The Poet’s Guide to Publishing can meet you where you are in your book creation or publication process. It is organized into five sections to mimic the distinct phases of conceiving, arranging, editing, publishing, and promoting a poetry collection. Each section provides a mix of theoretical materials and practical assignments to demystify and ground the publication process. The book’s author, Katerina Stoykova, will walk the attendees through some of the guide’s highlights and answer questions. (60 min)

The Writer’s Guide to the Apocalypse: Building the Ultimate Bug-Out Bag: Presenter – Tim Bischoff. Whether you’re writing about the end of the world or want to be ready for a real-life “life hits the fan” scenario, knowing how to pack a Bug Out Bag is a critical skill. Join us for a hands-on, practical deep dive into emergency preparedness. We’ll skip the movie tropes and focus on what actually keeps you alive when every second counts. (60 min)

Understanding the Basics: Presented by Don Bentley. A deep dive into common manuscript mistakes. We will cover formatting, dialog, story beats, the anatomy of a scene, and how to incorporate feedback and critiques into your writing.

Using Timelines to Tighten Plot: Presenter – Chad Elliot. Using Timelines to Tighten Plot will explore how the use of visual timelines by a writer can help to tighten the plot of a story and plan story beats. Subjects covered will include the types of story timelines, ways in which a timeline helps the writing process, styles of timelines, what should or shouldn’t be included in your timeline, and whether to share your timeline with your readers. (60 min)

What’s Vlad Got to do With It?: Presenter – Dacre Stoker. The Inseparable Connection between the historic Vlad Dracula III and fictional Count Dracula. Take an audio-visual tour through both medieval and modern-day Romania, investigating the facts and fiction surrounding Bram Stoker’s novel Dracula. Dacre provides personal insight from the tours he leads throughout Transylvania to places associated with both the fictional Count Dracula and the real Vlad Dracula. Appeals to history buffs and literature fans of all ages. (60 min)

Whispered Rituals and Sentimental Alchemy: Presenter – Jocelyn Waddle. Jocelyne Waddle invites participants to explore the Victorian art of floriography—the coded language of flowers, once used to express forbidden emotions, delivers clandestine messages, and conceal truths too dangerous to speak aloud.

Through immersive encounters and creative expression, attendees will learn how to craft Floral Mood Boards and compose Petal Poetry, using botanical symbolism to mirror their inner landscapes.

Participants begin their journey at the Scent & Memory Station, where fragrance unlocks forgotten feelings and half-buried memories. The workshop culminates in the creation of Floral Mood Boards and Petal Poetry, capturing emotional weather and whispered truths in bloom.

This workshop draws inspiration from Death Comes at First Light, where floriography is more than aesthetic—it’s a key to unraveling mystery. In the novel, Lady Aurora of Grandrivers deciphers hidden clues embedded in floral arrangements, revealing secrets of love, betrayal, and scientific obsession. Each flower becomes a witness, each bouquet a confession.

Join us for an enchanting experience where flowers speak louder than words, and every arrangement is a message waiting to be deciphered—just as they are in Lady Aurora’s world.

Write: Imagine What You Can Do: Presented by Heather Graham. This hands-on workshop is designed to unlock creative potential by stripping away the “rules” of formal writing and leaning into the power of raw imagination. Whether you’re a seasoned writer or a new author, this session provides a supportive space to explore where your imagination can take you. (2 hours)

Writing the Ancestors: Presented by Christina Marrocco. Whether you work in memoir, essay, or fiction, this workshop will use a meditative listing and inquiry process to not just generate writing but to engage our ancestors in order to write them honestly, deeply, and fully. There is no more important writing than that which tells the story of those who came before and tells it well. In order to do that, we must move beyond our own memories and thoughts and link to their lives and times. The central aim is to help participants write about their ancestors in a way that goes beyond surface-level memories. Rather than just recalling facts or stories, the goal is to fully embody and reimagine the lives, personalities, emotions, and struggles of those who came before us.

Be ready to engage, to write, and to discuss what you experience.

This workshop isn’t just about writing about ancestors, it’s about connecting to write with them, not just in mind, but in body, heart, and imagination. Let’s fuse creative writing, emotional inquiry, and ancestral reverence. (90 minutes)

Content Creation, Social Media, and Podcasting Workshops

Start (and GROW!) Your Own Podcast! Presenters – Chris Flanigan and Chris Cohron. Chris and Chris from TN2M Shows give you all the info and tools to help you start or grow your podcast! Whether you’re starting at 0 or hitting a growth plateau, Chris and Chris will share their 10 years of podcasting and brand building knowledge to help you hit those goals!

Gaming Workshops

coming soon…

Filmmaking and Screenwriting Workshops

AMA: Film Distribution and Post-Production: Presented by Roxanne Warren & Jonathan Knosp. An open Q&A session covering the realities of film distribution and post-production, with insights, advice, and practical guidance from industry professionals. (2 hrs.)

Anatomy of a Scene: Breaking Down Special Makeup Effects with the Ky Creature FX Crew: Presented by Sven Granlund, C.laude D. Miles, Yazmin Granlund, and Roni Jonah. Join The KY Creature FX Crew and filmmakers, Yazmin Granlund, Claude D. Miles, Sven Granlund, and Roni Jonah for an immersive, behind-the-scenes breakdown of the special makeup effects craft behind “Twisted”(Paramount Pictures 2026). Using live scene deconstruction and exclusive BTS photos and videos, The Crew will pull back the curtain on how these sequences and props were built, staged, and brought to life. The session will also feature a quick look at “Carved”(Hulu 2024) and an exclusive sneak peek at upcoming, never-before-seen projects. Perfect for filmmakers and fans interested in the “how” behind the “wow.” Graphic Content Warning for blood, gore, and hyper-realistic medical procedures.

Creative Collaborations: How Writers & Filmmakers Can Work Together: Presented by Roxanne Warren & Jonathan Knosp. Explore the creative and professional dynamics between writers and filmmakers, from adapting stories for the screen to building successful collaborative partnerships (60 min)

Firearms in Film Production: Presented by Silvio Wolf Busch. Elevate your production’s authenticity without compromising safety. Join tactical expert and filmmaker Silvio Wolf Busch for an essential class in on-set firearm handling. From achieving gritty realism to implementing rigorous safety protocols, you’ll walk away with the professional techniques needed to protect your cast and crew while capturing the perfect shot. (90 min)

Page to Premiere: The Strategy of Scaling Book Series into Film Franchises: Presenter – Amy Leigh McCorkle. Amy will provide the notebook and pens as she helps you learn to run the marathon, not the sprint. In this workshop, Amy will be covering the following:
*Blogs
*Memoirs
*Documentaries
*Narrative Films
*Limited Series
*Spin-off novels
*Shifting from Epistolarity to traditional memoirs
*Pitch decks
*The reality of the indie world.
*And more…

After the workshop, Amy is hosting a room party for participants with chocolate wine and homemade snacks, early arrivals invited! This workshop will take place Thursday evening, on July 16th, at 8 PM. (90 min)

Practice Lab: Practice Your Film/Book Pitch: Presented by Roxanne Warren & Jonathan Knosp. Refine your pitch in a hands-on workshop where participants can practice presenting their film or book ideas and receive constructive feedback. (60 min)

Special Effects Horror Makeup: Mastering the Art & Adapting on the Fly: Presented by Stephanie Lanham. Step into the dark and creative world of special effects horror makeup, where imagination meets technique and chaos becomes art. This hands-on workshop is designed for artists of all levels who want to learn the tricks of the trade behind realistic wounds, eerie textures, and cinematic transformations.
Participants will explore core SFX techniques, including building dimension, creating believable injuries, working with limited materials, and achieving camera-ready finishes. Beyond the technical skills, this workshop emphasizes one of the most important aspects of working in the industry, thinking on your toes.

In real-world settings like film, haunted attractions, and live events, things rarely go as planned. You’ll learn how to adapt quickly, problem-solve under pressure, and turn unexpected challenges into creative breakthroughs. Whether it’s a last-minute script change, missing supplies, or time constraints, you’ll gain the confidence to make it work and make it look incredible.

By the end of the workshop, attendees will not only have a solid foundation in special effects makeup, also the mindset and adaptability that separates good artists from unforgettable ones.
Come ready to create, improvise, and embrace the beautifully macabre.

Understanding Distribution Contract Legalese. Presented by Roxanne Warren & Jonathan Knosp. Break down the key terms, clauses, and industry jargon commonly found in distribution contracts so creators can better protect their work and negotiate with confidence. (60 min)

Music, Cosplay, and Miscellaneous Workshops

The Alchemy Framework: Presenter – Robert Thompson. Designed to help leaders and artist transform challenges into opportunities for innovation and growth. Drawing from storytelling, performance, and creative industries, it provides a structured pathway for integrating new technologies and creativity into your process without losing the human element.

Beyond the Veil: A Mediumship Gallery: Presenter – Christopher J. Brown. Join us for an intimate and powerful evening of spirit communication in this mediumship gallery experience. Psychic Medium Christopher J. Brown will connect with loved ones in Spirit, delivering evidential messages of love, healing, and validation from the other side.

In a gallery setting, messages are shared publicly with members of the audience as Spirit guides the experience. While not everyone is guaranteed a personal reading, the evening is often deeply meaningful for all who attend, offering comfort, insight, and a profound sense of connection.

Whether you are seeking messages from loved ones, spiritual reassurance, or wish to witness the beauty of mediumship, this event offers a warm, respectful, and heart-centered space to experience Spirit at work. Come with an open heart and an open mind—Spirit always knows who needs to be there. (1 hr)

Metaphysics and Paranormality: Presented by Ron Yacovetti. A new and more grounded reframing of paranormal phenomena that does not clash with science as many explanations held today do. We will show some video clips of the spirit communication method we have, which is unique and quite different from a spirit box, called TDSE: The Digital Seance Experience. (60 min)

A Convention for Creatives of All Genres - Holiday Inn Louisville East Louisville, KY - July 17-19, 2026

2026 Panels, Workshops, and Events