Writers who attended the 2026 Erma Bombeck Writers' Workshop described the experience as a “huge infusion of joy,” “a wonderful restorative weekend” and a “glorious celebration of connection, humor, learning and stories.”
In a post-workshop survey, one attendee wrote, “It’s a perfect, life-changing, bucket list item that will now become a regular event in my life. Don't change a thing. You change lives, which is no small thing in the world right now.”
Writers also said they appreciated the quality of the presenters, the workshop’s encouraging vibe and the organization’s attention to detail.
“This was my first Erma, and I am hooked,” one said. “From just the standpoint of hosting a conference (moving and feeding people, offering activities, organization), this is the best conference I've attended (over) the past three decades. More importantly, the people were by far the kindest, most supportive, funniest folks with whom I've ever attended a conference.”
High Marks
Approximately 41 percent of attendees completed the online survey, and nearly all (97 percent) gave the overall workshop an 8, 9 or 10 score, indicating a high level of satisfaction. The workshop’s cost vs. value received high marks, too, at 96 percent. The opportunity to network with other attendees and speakers netted high scores (96 percent and 76 percent, respectively).
Approximately 88 percent said the knowledge and connections they gained will cover the full cost or far exceed the cost of attending. Almost 90 percent said they'd like to return in 2028.
Among the pages of write-in responses: “People were immensely friendly and positive. …It was like Woodstock without the pharmaceuticals, a love fest!!!”
Keynoters and Emcee
Here's a glimpse of what writers had to say about the keynote slate and the emcee:
Kelly Corrigan: “She was akin to how I would imagine a modern-day Erma Bombeck. She communicated with heart and humor while talking about weighty, but mostly, wonderful aspects of family life.”
John Searles: “What a kind and delightful author/human!” and “We can all use more John Searles in our lives.”
Ann Garvin: “Wow. Does she read my mind? My head hurt from shaking it for ‘Yes. Right. Truth. Agree.’ Her keynote was like visiting with an old friend who knows you and who feels your joy and your pain when it comes to the writing life you've both chosen.”
Sona Movsesian: “Adorable! Unapologetically herself, which was beautiful to see!”
Steven Rowley: “Figured he'd be funny, but he was so profound and poignant, too. A perfect keynote!”
Leighann Lord: “Leighann Lord is proof that humor and elegance can go hand in hand. She is simply the best.”
Special Offerings
Attendees appreciated both the new offerings and traditional features of the workshop.
Writers who enrolled in the add-on Self-Publish Like a Pro master class with Eva Lesko Natiello said they now feel more confident and less terrified by the publishing process.
“I've self-published two books but still learned a lot. Things change quickly in this realm. Eva definitely knew her stuff and was eager to share her knowledge in a generous way,” one author said. Added another, “Eva changed my paradigm; I was against self-publishing, but now I will seriously consider it.”
Erma After Dark, an open mic night hosted by Kathy Kinney and Cindy Ratzlaff, drew enthusiastic reviews. “I loved observing the bravery of others and their writing styles — while laughing constantly,” one attendee said. Others loved the event’s welcoming ambiance: “Kathy and Cindy are always encouraging and create a safe space,” a writer wrote.
Pitchapalooza, a perennial favorite, lived up to expectations. “What energy! I was impressed by how Arielle, David, and Erin commanded the stage and gave quick and solid feedback,” one writer said. Another attendee called the session “excellent,” adding, “The responses from the panel were kind, yet meaningful. As an observer who is new to the world of pitching, this was a really valuable experience.”
Comedian Carole Montgomery, who hosted the closing Stand-Up Comedy Show, also earned high marks. “Carole nurtured and encouraged the comics. The show was fun and funny,” one audience member said. Another noted, “I think this showcase is earning a reputation, as evident by the high caliber of talent this year.”
New Yorker cartoonist and author Bob Eckstein impressed attendees with his on-the-spot drawings. “Bob is the secret weapon of the conference. His drawings are spot on — and done fast!” one attendee said. Another said, “His talent is mind-blowing. He captures the feel and the humor.”
Feedback on the food (except for the desserts and snacks) was more mixed, with some loving the meals and others with some qualms. Attendees also offered constructive suggestions — from calls for more advanced craft sessions and master classes to increased diversity among the attendees.
Several would like to see the workshop expanded: “I would cast a very enthusiastic vote for making this an annual event instead of every other year. Waiting two years feels a bit like being told you can only celebrate your birthday every other year. Technically survivable, but unnecessarily cruel,” one wrote.
The vast majority of attendees strongly prefer gathering in Dayton, but others appreciated the Erma Home Schooling virtual option that included the five keynote talks and four exclusive workshops. “This makes me want to attend one in person. Maybe next year!” one writer said. “The speakers were all engaging and truly great storytellers,” another wrote.
Beyond the survey responses, writers produced thousands of words reflecting on their experiences at the 2026 Erma Bombeck Writers’ Workshop. For links to their newspaper articles, blog posts and online stories, click here.
The next Erma Bombeck Writers’ Workshop will take place March 30-April 1, 2028. Registration opens in November 2027. To stay connected, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and Threads, and subscribe to our free monthly e-newsletter.
(Photo by Julie Walling Noeth)