Chicago's Hottest Writers' Retreat Is Almost Here!
The 4th Annual Sounds Like Joy Writers' Retreat & Workshop
We're Doing It AGAIN!
We are bringing the best writers' retreat back to Chicago, September 18-19, 2025. Writers from across the nation will converge on the Windy City for game-changing workshops, a behind-the-scenes studio tour and access to Hollywood insiders.
Set Your Writing Career in Motion!
Learn everything you need to know to start and boost your career as a Hollywood writer. Whether you're just starting your professional journey or you are an experienced scribe, this retreat and workshop is for you.
An Immersive Retreat Experience Designed for Writers Like You...
WORKSHOPS
Learn in immersive workshops that help you take your stories to a new level.
STUDIO TOUR
Go beyond the gates of Chicago's premier film studio for a look behind the scenes where some of the top TV series and films are made.
FIRESIDE CHAT
Connect with Hollywood managers in an intimate setting. Ask questions. Get insider information on breaking in and the latest industry trends.
5 Comprehensive Topics To Put Your Writing Career On The Right Track
What You Get
The Sounds Like Joy Writers' Retreat & Workshop is designed to be an unforgettable and transformative experience. With workshops taught by industry leaders, live discussions, fun excursions and networking sessions, you’ll leave this retreat aligned and ready to take charge of your writing career.
Insightful Lessons & Lectures
Learn from Sylvia and other industry professionals who have blazed their own trails to success.
Select Meals
Enjoy delicious meals as you relax, learn and connect with potential collaborators.
STUDIO TOUR
Go beyond the gates of Chicago's premier film studio for a look behind the scenes where some of the top TV series and films are made.
Hear What Past Attendees Said
Get Ready to Elevate Your Writing
Submit your feature film or TV Pilot screenplay to recieve professional feedback from Sounds Like Joy Productions.
Meet The Retreat Team
Meet the small but mighty team behind the Sounds Like Joy Writers' Retreat and Workshop. These powerhouse gurus are here to ensure you have an amazing experience from start to finish.
Rubye Lane
Rubye Lane is a Daytime Emmy Award Winning Television Producer with over a decade of experience producing a variety of content for various broadcast and syndicated platforms.
She has worked for Disney, NBC Universal, Fox, Telepictures and Sony Pictures. Her work has been featured on ABC, NBC, Fox and the former WB network.
In 2004, she earned her first Emmy for her work on the NBC Universal series Starting Over. Throughout her career, Rubye has produced segments featuring Elton John, Common, Lin Manuel Miranda, and Gloria & Emilio Estefan and segments for the NAACP Image Awards featuring then Senator Barack Obama.
In June 2022, her work on the documentary Rise and Rebuild: A Tale of Three Cities made its debut at a private screening New York during the week of the Tribeca Film Festival.
Stacia Crawford
Stacia Crawford is an award-winning journalist and the Founder and Chief Strategist for Stay Ready Media. Her 30+ years of experience as a TV news producer has positioned her as a skilled communications specialist, media trainer, and publicity strategist. Stacia provides media coaching, speaker training and targeted media outreach. She helps entrepreneurs, authors, and industry leaders gain massive media exposure on TV, radio, magazines and podcasts.
As a media insider, Stacia understands what journalists want and what it takes to deliver. Stacia’s clients have been featured in countless broadcast, print and digital outlets across the country including ABC, CBS, NBC, FOX, CNN, WGN, Forbes, Inc., and Oprah Magazine, just to name a few.
Elaine Barnes
A client experience strategist with 25 plus years in the restaurant and corporate industries. She has been credited with successful openings, launches and re-brands for numerous small businesses, restaurants, nightclubs, non-profit organizations, and corporate industries in Chicago, Greece, Mexico, and South Africa.
Elaine plans and promotes special events, project management lead, negotiates logistics and develops collateral materials. She’s worked with notables including Kirkland & Ellis LLP, Partner Events 2022 – 2023. Rockit Ranch Productions Cocktail Club Grand Opening, 2021. The James Beard Awards Ceremony, 2015 – 2017, and organized the African Consulate Dignitary Dinner, 2015. In addition, she served on the March of Dimes Member, Executive Committee & Logistics Lead Signature Chefs Auction, 2011-2014.
Elaine’s mission is creating the most unforgettable, high-quality experiences for clients and their guests.