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About & Testimonials |
I started my meditation practice at the age of 16. I gave up smoking weed and took up Transcendental Meditation (TM). Stayed with that for 6 years till I discovered mindfulness meditation. My first book on mindfulness was A Gradual Awakening by Stevin Levine, who I met when he offered seminars in Minneapolis, MN. Still a great resource. I was a rebellious and determined seeker and rejected TM's dogma. I started my spiritual journaling practice at the same time (16 years old), along with consulting the I Ching. The Sage of the I Ching has been my constant companion throughout my life. A lantern on my path. Later I wrote a book for Teens on the I Ching. My meditation practice has explored and practiced Vipassana, Dzogchen, Tibetan Mantra & Guru yoga (at Deer Park in Oregon, WI), arriving most luckily with Anapansati practice (same as the one taught by Thich Nhat Hanh).
My spiritual practice has been grounded in Buddhist philosophy and in Nature. These two come together well in Ajahn Buddhadasa Bhikkhu's and Santikaro's (my local teacher) teachings, such as in their book, Under The Bodhi Tree. Mind Training, particularly the practices of LoJong have been essential to my living a life of integrity and groundedness (as best I can). I reject the Shambhala's appropriation of Lojong and rely on the original teachings as found in the book: The Practice of Lojong: Cultivating Compassion through Training the Mind. (I do appreciate Pema Chodron's books and teachings on Lojong, although she was part of the Shambhala dynasty and Chogyam Trumpa's student). Chogyam Trumpa, the founder of Shambhala was sexual with female students and acted violently contrary to the Lojong teachings he taught and wrote dozens of books (all of which I read). He abused drugs and alcohol. His son went on to be accused of similar abuses. Here is one of many articles on the subject: HERE
Some of my work in the world is to identify and challenge such spiritual and psychological scams and cults. And, to mentor those who may be caught up in a psychological or spiritual scam or religious cult , or wants help recovering from one.
Other teachers and practices that have influenced my spiritual and psychological awakening is Parker J Palmer and Cat Greenstreet, and the teachings of Circles of Trust.
Coming together to do our work in circles of trust and transformation are neccessary for a full recovery of abuse, neglect, abandonment and isolation. This is one of my areas of delight. I prefer areas of delight to area of expertise.
(In the process of updating this About page, back to it soon. today's date: 2/16/23)
I have often said that I came out of the womb a therapist asking my mom, "Are you okay?" Of course that could of also been that inheritance of codependency. I played therapy encounter groups with friends and neighbors. I sought out god, meaning and community from a very young age, where I would walk to church on my own at the age of 8. I got baptized at the age of 13 by an enlightened Lutheran minister, who later left the church. I wanted to cover all my bases, just in case it was true that I may go to hell if I am not baptized. Turns out I was baptized with tap water. A story I share in my book, The Wheel of Initiation.
My spiritual practice has been grounded in Buddhist philosophy and in Nature. These two come together well in Ajahn Buddhadasa Bhikkhu's and Santikaro's (my local teacher) teachings, such as in their book, Under The Bodhi Tree. Mind Training, particularly the practices of LoJong have been essential to my living a life of integrity and groundedness (as best I can). I reject the Shambhala's appropriation of Lojong and rely on the original teachings as found in the book: The Practice of Lojong: Cultivating Compassion through Training the Mind. (I do appreciate Pema Chodron's books and teachings on Lojong, although she was part of the Shambhala dynasty and Chogyam Trumpa's student). Chogyam Trumpa, the founder of Shambhala was sexual with female students and acted violently contrary to the Lojong teachings he taught and wrote dozens of books (all of which I read). He abused drugs and alcohol. His son went on to be accused of similar abuses. Here is one of many articles on the subject: HERE
Some of my work in the world is to identify and challenge such spiritual and psychological scams and cults. And, to mentor those who may be caught up in a psychological or spiritual scam or religious cult , or wants help recovering from one.
Other teachers and practices that have influenced my spiritual and psychological awakening is Parker J Palmer and Cat Greenstreet, and the teachings of Circles of Trust.
Coming together to do our work in circles of trust and transformation are neccessary for a full recovery of abuse, neglect, abandonment and isolation. This is one of my areas of delight. I prefer areas of delight to area of expertise.
(In the process of updating this About page, back to it soon. today's date: 2/16/23)
I have often said that I came out of the womb a therapist asking my mom, "Are you okay?" Of course that could of also been that inheritance of codependency. I played therapy encounter groups with friends and neighbors. I sought out god, meaning and community from a very young age, where I would walk to church on my own at the age of 8. I got baptized at the age of 13 by an enlightened Lutheran minister, who later left the church. I wanted to cover all my bases, just in case it was true that I may go to hell if I am not baptized. Turns out I was baptized with tap water. A story I share in my book, The Wheel of Initiation.
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As The Writer's Sherpa, I enjoy every part of the writer’s life (and helping others to live a fulfilling creative life). I am presently seeking a publisher for my first novel. I have kept a journal since the age of sixteen. I taught on-line and face-to-face adjunct instructor through the UW-Madison, Continuing Studies Writing Program (for 10 years) until its closing this June, 2021. Working for the UW and living The Wisconsin Idea, was a dream come true for me.
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MediaLIME Radio Interview
On “Using your Journal”to enhance your creative and spiritual path. Listen online (need to find link). Article On Being A Spiritual Hero |
TESTIMONIALS
"I am a professional editor (clerestorybooks.com) and in this capacity I’ve had the distinct honor of working with the very gifted author, mentor, and writer’s sherpa Julie Tallard Johnson for almost twenty years on a variety of written projects that have morphed into wonderful books. Given Julie’s wizardry with words as an author, as Writer’s Sherpa she is a shining light of inspiration to those creative individuals seeking her wisdom and guidance as they navigate the writing of their own works. Julie has the rare ability to really see into the words on a page, to ascertain their true essence and bring that essence to the fore. Her creative guidance is relayed in a positive and loving way wherein the writer feels incredibly safe and completely supported, enabling the writer’s best work to issue forth. I can’t recommend Julie highly enough; she brings grace and a special touch of magic to every book she works on." Anne Dillon, editor
"Julie has been my writing sherpa in the classroom and in a writing circle for 2 years. Under Julie's guidance, both my writing and my confidence have grown. Julie is a wonderful guide, mentor, teacher, counselor. Her circles are part writing critique and part therapy. Julie creates an ideal space to harness all your writerly gifts. Recently I did a one-on-one consult with Julie and I can't believe I didn't sign up sooner. In the hour and a half, we focused on a chapter of my book and I left with very clear goals for revising and improving my manuscript. Sometimes I feel like I am just writing, but after my consult with Julie, I feel like a soon-to-be author. Julie's expertise in the publishing world as well as her helpful, honest, and friendly guidance, make her consults effective, productive, and inspiring. I walked away with a plan, and am at the next level." –Molly Chanson is a teacher, writer, and entrepreneur, inspired by yoga as a path to healing. Molly shares her her personal experiences as a mom and wife on her blog, Soul Ma in order to inspire other women to heal, grow, and transform into their bravest self. Molly lives in southern Wisconsin with her two young boys and is writing her first book. Please contact Molly at molly@soulma.com. Molly is one of my success stories, she now has her book published, Fallen Star: A Return to Self through the Eight Limbs of Yoga for your consumption click on book cover. Publisher: Shanti Arts/Nine Rivers Imprint
“Julie Tallard Johnson--a gifted teacher and writer--brings fresh insight to an ancient truth: each of us must live from the inside out. Her book--full of resources that range from heart-deep insight to helpful, practical exercises--can help us reclaim the treasure-trove of our own experience and being.”
-Parker J. Palmer, author of Healing the Heart of Democracy, Let Your Life Speak, and The Courage to Teach.
Parker J Palmer collaborated with me on my latest book: The Clue of the Red Thread.
"I have had the great pleasure of working with Julie. First with her online Initiated Writer’s course, then with her Sherpa Mentoring program. Julie’s feedback and tips are always insightful. She skillfully helped me to distill and express the truth that is in my heart. She is kind and intuitive, direct, and honest. Initially, I resisted writing about my cancer story. I did not want illness to define me. Julie kept nudging me in that direction. Eventually, I trusted her and am glad I did. Julie helped me to see that my life is not defined by cancer but by the wisdom I have to share. Although cancer is present in my life, my story is about healing, wholeness, inspiration, connection, and awakening the heart. Without Julie, my book would have been incomplete. Julie is a gifted guide, writer, editor, and a kind human being. I recommend her whole-heartedly to anyone who has a story to share.
Corinna Stevenson, B.ED, MA. Corinna is one of my success stories: For over 25 years, Corinna has taught and guided hundreds of people through personal transformation. First as a high school teacher and then as a therapeutic wilderness guide and rites of passage ceremonialist.
As a Métis woman, Corinna weaves traditional cultural teachings and Earth-based forms into all her practices. She holds a Bachelor's in education from McGill University and a Master’s of Arts in transpersonal psychology with a concentration in ecopsychology from Naropa University. Corinna is the recipient of a Prime Minister’s Award for Teaching Excellence (Certificate of Achievement, 2003). She is currently putting the finishing touches on her book entitled: Ravenwood; The Healing Forest: Indigenous Wisdom, Life Threatening Illness, and Awakening the Heart. To be released early 2023.
“I was captivated by Julie Tallard Johnson’s accessible treatise on how we are all charged with making meaning in our daily lives. I found The Zero Point Agreement dazzling because it is so packed with actual, practical wisdom. I can honestly say it has already changed my life.” -Meg Cox, author of The Book of New Family Traditions
“Julie's The Zero Point Agreement offers a clear, practical path to taking control of what you are able to and living the life you want to live.” -Dinty W. Moore, author of The Mindful Writer: Noble Truths of the Writing Life
“Julie Tallard Johnson’s The Zero Point Agreement is a brilliant resource for deep and lasting change. I have used the zero point agreement in my own life and have shared it with clients and students. It is not another pie-in-the-sky promise of change. It is straightforward and effective.” -Tamar Zick, LPC, RYT, licensed psychotherapist and registered yoga teacher
“What a generous, wise, and useful book this is! Each chapter is so filled with quotes, anecdotes, hands-on exercises and more that help and inspire us to fully claim our own lives. There’s enough here to guide and inform you for many years to come.” -Ruth L. Schwartz, Ph.D., award-winning poet, and author of Soul on Earth: A Guide to Living & Loving
“A delightful companion for those of us seeking greater levels of balance, meaning, and joy--this book offers many gems of inspiration as well as the welcomed reminder that the journey toward wholeness always begins within.” (Karen Horneffer-Ginter, Ph.D., author of Full Cup, Thirsty Spirit)
“The Zero Point Agreement is not only a book it’s also a beautifully written love letter to the essence of who we really are.” -Radiah Nunez, hostess of the H2O Network
“Julie’s new book goes to the sinew from the beginning, reminding us of who we really are. She invites us to listen to ourselves, especially our demons, and shows us how to navigate from desire to the dreams that comprise our core. “Living life from my side” is an inspired, pragmatic concept that will change lives. Imagine a world where each of us takes 100% responsibility for our experience. This is Julie’s offering: a spark of hope and a path of light.” -Prudence Tippins, ph d.
“In this resource-rich book of practical wisdom and wise practices, Julie Tallard Johnson offers readers multidimensional insights, inspiration, and skills for living with greater authenticity, creativity, and happiness. Integrating science, spirituality, and art in an engaging and deeply thoughtful approach to becoming who you already are, this gifted teacher demonstrates how each of us can create more meaning and joy in our lives--in ourselves, in the world around us, and for our power to create and shape the stories we tell ourselves and others.” (Amber Ault, Ph.D., clinical sociologist and psychotherapist)
"I am a professional editor (clerestorybooks.com) and in this capacity I’ve had the distinct honor of working with the very gifted author, mentor, and writer’s sherpa Julie Tallard Johnson for almost twenty years on a variety of written projects that have morphed into wonderful books. Given Julie’s wizardry with words as an author, as Writer’s Sherpa she is a shining light of inspiration to those creative individuals seeking her wisdom and guidance as they navigate the writing of their own works. Julie has the rare ability to really see into the words on a page, to ascertain their true essence and bring that essence to the fore. Her creative guidance is relayed in a positive and loving way wherein the writer feels incredibly safe and completely supported, enabling the writer’s best work to issue forth. I can’t recommend Julie highly enough; she brings grace and a special touch of magic to every book she works on." Anne Dillon, editor
"Julie has been my writing sherpa in the classroom and in a writing circle for 2 years. Under Julie's guidance, both my writing and my confidence have grown. Julie is a wonderful guide, mentor, teacher, counselor. Her circles are part writing critique and part therapy. Julie creates an ideal space to harness all your writerly gifts. Recently I did a one-on-one consult with Julie and I can't believe I didn't sign up sooner. In the hour and a half, we focused on a chapter of my book and I left with very clear goals for revising and improving my manuscript. Sometimes I feel like I am just writing, but after my consult with Julie, I feel like a soon-to-be author. Julie's expertise in the publishing world as well as her helpful, honest, and friendly guidance, make her consults effective, productive, and inspiring. I walked away with a plan, and am at the next level." –Molly Chanson is a teacher, writer, and entrepreneur, inspired by yoga as a path to healing. Molly shares her her personal experiences as a mom and wife on her blog, Soul Ma in order to inspire other women to heal, grow, and transform into their bravest self. Molly lives in southern Wisconsin with her two young boys and is writing her first book. Please contact Molly at molly@soulma.com. Molly is one of my success stories, she now has her book published, Fallen Star: A Return to Self through the Eight Limbs of Yoga for your consumption click on book cover. Publisher: Shanti Arts/Nine Rivers Imprint
“Julie Tallard Johnson--a gifted teacher and writer--brings fresh insight to an ancient truth: each of us must live from the inside out. Her book--full of resources that range from heart-deep insight to helpful, practical exercises--can help us reclaim the treasure-trove of our own experience and being.”
-Parker J. Palmer, author of Healing the Heart of Democracy, Let Your Life Speak, and The Courage to Teach.
Parker J Palmer collaborated with me on my latest book: The Clue of the Red Thread.
"I have had the great pleasure of working with Julie. First with her online Initiated Writer’s course, then with her Sherpa Mentoring program. Julie’s feedback and tips are always insightful. She skillfully helped me to distill and express the truth that is in my heart. She is kind and intuitive, direct, and honest. Initially, I resisted writing about my cancer story. I did not want illness to define me. Julie kept nudging me in that direction. Eventually, I trusted her and am glad I did. Julie helped me to see that my life is not defined by cancer but by the wisdom I have to share. Although cancer is present in my life, my story is about healing, wholeness, inspiration, connection, and awakening the heart. Without Julie, my book would have been incomplete. Julie is a gifted guide, writer, editor, and a kind human being. I recommend her whole-heartedly to anyone who has a story to share.
Corinna Stevenson, B.ED, MA. Corinna is one of my success stories: For over 25 years, Corinna has taught and guided hundreds of people through personal transformation. First as a high school teacher and then as a therapeutic wilderness guide and rites of passage ceremonialist.
As a Métis woman, Corinna weaves traditional cultural teachings and Earth-based forms into all her practices. She holds a Bachelor's in education from McGill University and a Master’s of Arts in transpersonal psychology with a concentration in ecopsychology from Naropa University. Corinna is the recipient of a Prime Minister’s Award for Teaching Excellence (Certificate of Achievement, 2003). She is currently putting the finishing touches on her book entitled: Ravenwood; The Healing Forest: Indigenous Wisdom, Life Threatening Illness, and Awakening the Heart. To be released early 2023.
“I was captivated by Julie Tallard Johnson’s accessible treatise on how we are all charged with making meaning in our daily lives. I found The Zero Point Agreement dazzling because it is so packed with actual, practical wisdom. I can honestly say it has already changed my life.” -Meg Cox, author of The Book of New Family Traditions
“Julie's The Zero Point Agreement offers a clear, practical path to taking control of what you are able to and living the life you want to live.” -Dinty W. Moore, author of The Mindful Writer: Noble Truths of the Writing Life
“Julie Tallard Johnson’s The Zero Point Agreement is a brilliant resource for deep and lasting change. I have used the zero point agreement in my own life and have shared it with clients and students. It is not another pie-in-the-sky promise of change. It is straightforward and effective.” -Tamar Zick, LPC, RYT, licensed psychotherapist and registered yoga teacher
“What a generous, wise, and useful book this is! Each chapter is so filled with quotes, anecdotes, hands-on exercises and more that help and inspire us to fully claim our own lives. There’s enough here to guide and inform you for many years to come.” -Ruth L. Schwartz, Ph.D., award-winning poet, and author of Soul on Earth: A Guide to Living & Loving
“A delightful companion for those of us seeking greater levels of balance, meaning, and joy--this book offers many gems of inspiration as well as the welcomed reminder that the journey toward wholeness always begins within.” (Karen Horneffer-Ginter, Ph.D., author of Full Cup, Thirsty Spirit)
“The Zero Point Agreement is not only a book it’s also a beautifully written love letter to the essence of who we really are.” -Radiah Nunez, hostess of the H2O Network
“Julie’s new book goes to the sinew from the beginning, reminding us of who we really are. She invites us to listen to ourselves, especially our demons, and shows us how to navigate from desire to the dreams that comprise our core. “Living life from my side” is an inspired, pragmatic concept that will change lives. Imagine a world where each of us takes 100% responsibility for our experience. This is Julie’s offering: a spark of hope and a path of light.” -Prudence Tippins, ph d.
“In this resource-rich book of practical wisdom and wise practices, Julie Tallard Johnson offers readers multidimensional insights, inspiration, and skills for living with greater authenticity, creativity, and happiness. Integrating science, spirituality, and art in an engaging and deeply thoughtful approach to becoming who you already are, this gifted teacher demonstrates how each of us can create more meaning and joy in our lives--in ourselves, in the world around us, and for our power to create and shape the stories we tell ourselves and others.” (Amber Ault, Ph.D., clinical sociologist and psychotherapist)
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©2023 Julie Tallard Johnson, MSW, LCSW
The Writer's Sherpa
Transformational & Embodied Counselor & Mentor
Engaged in the world, one conversation at a time
Most rights reserved. Admin
The Writer's Sherpa
Transformational & Embodied Counselor & Mentor
Engaged in the world, one conversation at a time
Most rights reserved. Admin