Today we’d like to introduce you to Kathleen (Kate) Goggin.
Hi Kathleen (Kate), we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
I began my career as a writer and editor, and my later work included media spokesperson jobs for the U.S. State Department and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. Writing was my profession, yet it was journaling that quietly became my personal anchor during periods of transition and professional uncertainty.
That private practice eventually became the foundation for my book, 10 Little Rules When Good Jobs Go Bad, which grew out of reflective writing. What surprised me most was how strongly readers responded, not just to the book, but to the process behind it.
Over time, that response pulled me into community venues. I began developing writing workshops that focus how to listen, reflect, and simplify. In the past year, that work has expanded through successful workshops like Journal and Discover and The Art of Simplicity, three Barnes & Noble signings at area stores, and an invitation to share my perspective with fellow writers at the Roanoke Regional Writer’s Conference. Today, my work is focused on sharing tips and advice on clarity and creative reflection.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
It’s never a smooth or straight road for me. It’s been more of an exciting journey up a winding path. One of the biggest challenges was stepping out from behind the journaling process and learning to share it publicly. Writing privately is one thing, but teaching others the process requires a different kind of skill that I had to develop.
Another challenge was resisting the pressure to “package” creativity, as a quick task, rather than a meaningful practice. I spent time refining my workshops so they deliver real value. I’m pleased the positive evaluations reflect my effort to provide clear structure, practical tools, and fun exercises.
Each challenge forced me to slow down, listen to participants, and focus on results. That patience has been rewarded in ways I couldn’t have imagined.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
I’m an author and writing-workshop leader who specializes in reflective and creative writing as a tool for clarity. I believe that writing doesn’t have to be intimidating to be powerful.
Through workshops like Journal and Discover and The Art of Simplicity, I help people who don’t consider themselves writers, use short, focused journaling practices to uncover insights and reconnect with their own voices. I’m especially proud of creating safe welcoming spaces where people leave with tools they can actually use in daily life.
What sets my work apart is the blend of professional communications experience and creative openness. I teach people how to pay attention and write better. Their writing follows naturally from there.
What do you like best about our city? What do you like least?
What I love most about Northern Virginia is its international flair and intellectual energy. There’s a deep respect here for learning, libraries, bookstores, and a genuine interest in growth and reinvention. It’s a place where people are constantly changing, which makes it the perfect place for reflective work.
The challenge is the pace. This is a region that values productivity and momentum, sometimes at the expense of community connection. Yet that tension is also what makes my work relevant. In a fast-moving place, creating space for simplicity and reflection is a necessity.
Pricing:
- To hire me for writing workshops or speaking opportunities, please contact me through my my website.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://kategoggin.net/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/goggin.kate
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kate.goggin.58/
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kategoggin/
