Writer's Workshop
27224 California 78, Ramona, CA, USA
February 24 - 26, 2025
About this Retreat
Bob Goff is the author of the
New York Times bestselling
Love Does and
Everybody, Always, Dream Big and his latest book,
Undistracted. He is the Honorary Consul to the Republic of Uganda, an attorney, and the founder of Love Does—a nonprofit human rights organization operating in Uganda, India, Nepal, Iraq, and Somalia. He's a lover of balloons, cake pops, and helping people pursue their big dreams. Bob's greatest ambitions in life are to love others, do stuff, and, most importantly, to hold hands with his wife, Sweet Maria Goff, and spend time with their amazing kids. For more, check out
BobGoff.com and
LoveDoes.org.
Kimberly Stuart grew up in Iowa, where she learned to be snobbish about corn on the cob and good storytelling. She earned degrees at St. Olaf College and the University of Iowa, both fine institutions that did very little to prepare her for the lethal cocktail of parenting and writing.
Stuart is the author of eight novels, including
Sugar,
Heart Land, and the Heidi Elliott series. Her books have been featured in
Cosmopolitan, Huff Post, and the
Chicago Sun-Times, and have been carried by Target, Wal-Mart, Barnes & Noble, and booksellers nationwide. She and
New York Times-bestselling author Bob Goff have coached hundreds of aspiring authors to finish their good and important work. It is an honor to help get their words out into the world through their work in executive coaching, online courses, and events at The Oaks Retreat Center.
Kim's podcast, For Real with Kimberly Stuart, launched in fall 2021.
Stuart has made her home in Minneapolis, Houston, Chicago, Costa Rica, Nebraska, and Iowa, where she now lives with her brave husband and three wily children.
Find Kim on Facebook, Instagram (kimberly.stuart.writes), and at
kimberlystuart.com.
Taylor Hughes fell in love with the art of illusion when his parents bought him a magic kit for his 7th
birthday. More than 30 years and 3,000 shows later, Taylor has become known for his signature style of
Magic Storytelling. He is a favorite at Hollywood’s famed Magic Castle, a highly sought-after Keynote
Presenter, and his Comedy Magic Special “Chasing Wonder” is streaming now. His brand-new book
Road to Wonder was released last year and is available everywhere your favorite books are sold.
Taylor is married to his high school sweetheart Katie, and they live in Southern California with their two
daughters Madelyn and Kennedy.
Details of this retreat
CALLING ALL WRITERS!
Whether you’re knee-deep in a writing project or just need the time and space to start putting pen to paper, The Oaks is the perfect backdrop for your next chapter. Join Bob Goff, four-time bestselling author, along with his friends Kim Stuart and Taylor Hughes, for an immersive and practical time of writing, learning, and community. The world needs your words, and now is the time to take them out of your journal or those unfinished Word docs and finally share them—whether with just a few or with many.
This is not about competition, but about a community of support, where everyone is cheering you on. Hundreds of authors have attended this workshop and gone on to launch their books and projects into the world. Whether you're a seasoned writer or just beginning, we have something for every stage of the writing journey.
Workshops for Every Stage of the Writing Game:
Battling Imposter Syndrome
Imposter syndrome—fear—creeps in at every stage of the writing journey and keeps us from moving forward. Whether you’re just starting or you’ve written several books. Bob, Kim, and Taylor will guide you through overcoming these doubts so you can finally finish (or start) your project.
Writing From Start to Finish: Structure and the Messy Middle
Learn how to lay out your book from the very beginning to the end. This session is packed with practical tips for structuring your writing, staying motivated in the messy middle, and pushing through to the finish line. Bob and the team will share their signature framework for structuring your next writing project.
Building a Daily Writing Practice: Creating Consistency and Flow
Writing regularly is one of the biggest challenges for any author. In this session, Bob, Kim, and Taylor will share their tips for building a sustainable writing routine that fits your life. You’ll learn how to create the right environment, carve out time, and develop the discipline needed to keep your project moving forward.
The Business of Writing: Queries, Publishing, and Everything in Between
Whether you're aiming for traditional publishing or self-publishing, your experienced team will teach you how to navigate the business side of writing. Learn about queries, publishing options, and everything in between so you can confidently navigate the business of writing.
Q&A with Bob, Kim, and Taylor
This is your chance to ask questions about your specific project. Whether you’re stuck in the idea phase or close to finishing, Bob, Kim, and Taylor will offer real-time advice and guidance on your next steps.
BONUS: Dedicated Writing Time in a Beautiful Setting
With the stunning views and peaceful atmosphere of The Oaks, you’ll have plenty of time to write in peace. Enjoy cozy spots like the fireplace-lit café or a rocking chair on the porch, giving you the space to focus and get those words on paper.
What You’ll Leave With:
Confidence to Call Yourself an Author: Overcome the fear that keeps you from fully stepping into your role as an author.
A Clear Structure for Your Next Book: Learn how to organize and complete your project, no matter what stage it’s in.
A Solid Understanding of the Publishing Process: Whether you’re aiming to self-publish or go the traditional route, you’ll leave with the knowledge and tools to navigate the world of publishing.
Personal Feedback on Your Writing: Get personalized guidance directly from Bob, Kim, and Taylor on your current project or idea.
A Supportive Writing Community: Many authors stay connected long after the workshop, helping each other launch their projects into the world.
This is more than just a writing workshop—it’s a chance to take the words you’ve been holding back and bring them into the world. Whether you’re writing for an audience of millions or simply for the joy of a few, this weekend will give you the confidence and tools to finally take action.
Join Bob Goff, Kim Stuart, and Taylor Hughes at The Oaks for a transformative time. Spots are limited to keep the experience personal and impactful, so reserve your spot today!
https://youtu.be/OSUM0LmfeF8
View our schedule and learn more on our Frequently Asked Questions page.
Getting Here
The Oaks, 27224 California 78, Ramona, CA, USA
Directions
From HWY 78, look for the large blue and gold GOLDEN EAGLE FARM SIGN and two tall Cyprus trees on your left. The best way to know your turn is coming if you are coming from the East will be the center turn lane. Turn Left on Golden Eagle Road and stay left to follow the signs to The Oaks, approximately 1.5 miles back off the 78.
Once you arrive to The Oaks gate, continue to the top of the circle drive to unload your belongings and then promptly drive back down to the first parking lot on your left. If that parking lot is full, please continue down the end of the driveway and park in the lot on your right.
Please follow event details for specific check in procedures.
If the gate is locked, please wait in the parking lot outside the gate or call The Oaks main line.
www.OaksCenter.com
Accommodation
Kendall (2+ guests only)
Kendall is our spacious suite with 2 queen beds and a wrap around porch overlooking the San Diego foothills. Guests can enjoy watching deer grazing in the grassy field below each morning as they enjoy the best seat in the house for stunning sunrises. There are (2) Queen beds in each room, a writing desk, plenty of sunlight and spacious seating area. Guests will also enjoy a good giggle, a cheerful nod to the property's past life as a youth camp in the bathroom, where they will find 3 sinks, 3 toilets, and 3 showers...one for each day guests are here!
Recommended for couples, anyone looking to spread out and enjoy a private seating area and workspace, 4 friends that are ok sharing queen beds (and all want to get ready at the same time!), or 2 friends that don't mind sharing a room but would like their own queen bed, or anyone looking for an upgraded, more private experience.
Click here to take a virtual walk through Kendall
Wynne
Wynne is our hotel style private bed, bath option tucked away on the hillside. Each room is beautifully appointed with one queen bed perfect for an individual or couple. Guests can enjoy their own private entrance as they pass the by the beginnings of our citrus grove on their way to our hiking trails. Enjoy a short walk to all the the action or stay close by on a beautiful deck nearby.
Recommended for individuals, couples, and anyone looking for an upgraded, more private experience.
Click here to take a virtual walk through Wynne
Upper Ballena-One King
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Upper Ballena is our stunning 12 bedroom, 6 bathroom lodge with breathtaking views of Oaks Equestrian, our 9 acre vineyard and the Ballena Valley. The lodge is set up with 3 wings, each wing has 4 bedrooms. 7 bedrooms have king beds, 5 bedrooms have two twins. This listing is for a king bedroom. Between every two bedrooms you will find a bathroom with a tub, sink and toilet. Each room has a private sink.
Guests will be blown away when they walk in. The beautifully appointed space boasts vaulted ceilings, cozy couches to sink into the couch as you connect with new friends, built in bookcases, a dining table with seating for 12 and a fully equipped kitchen.
As beautiful as the interior is, there's nothing compared to the oversized deck. Guests can enjoy rocking chairs, a private fire pit, and sunsets that candy color the sky and overlook our vineyard and equestrian center.
Recommended for individuals, couples, and friends that want a private luxury room that don't mind sharing a bathroom. Ballena can also be exclusively rented for your group or team. For more information about rentals, click here to begin your rental inquiry.
To book multiple rooms, you will need to register for each room as a separate registration. Make note in your registration if you are attending with other guests and we will do our best to get you all together, although it is not guaranteed we can do so and help you with the registration process.
Click here take a virtual walk through Ballena
Upper Ballena - Two Twins
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Upper Ballena is our stunning 12 bedroom, 6 bathroom lodge with breathtaking views of Oaks Equestrian, our 9 acre vineyard and the Ballena Valley. The lodge is set up with 3 wings, each wing has 4 bedrooms. 7 bedrooms have King beds, 5 bedrooms have two twins. This listing is for a 2 twin beds in one room. Each room has a private sink. Between every two bedrooms you will find a bathroom with a tub, sink and toilet.
Guests will be blown away when they walk into the great room. The beautifully appointed space boasts vaulted ceilings, cozy couches to sink into the couch as you connect with new friends, built in bookcases, a dining table with seating for 12 and a fully equipped kitchen.
As beautiful as the interior is, there's nothing compared to the oversized deck. Guests can enjoy rocking chairs, a private fire pit, and sunsets that candy color the sky and overlook our vineyard and equestrian center.
Recommended for individuals, couples, and friends that want a private luxury room that don't mind sharing a bathroom. Ballena can also be exclusively rented for your group or team. For more information about rentals, click here to begin your rental inquiry.
To book multiple rooms, you will need to register for each room as a separate registration. Contact us if you are attending with other guests and we will do our best to get you all together, although it is not guaranteed we can do so and help you with the registration process.
Click here to take a virtual walk through Ballena
Lower Ballena (2+ guests only)
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Lower Ballena boasts 4 extra large bedrooms. Each bedroom has 2 queen beds and 2 twin beds with sweeping views of the Ballena Valley. For every two bedrooms you will find a spacious bathroom with 4 private showers, toilets and sinks.
Guests will also enjoy curling up with a great book off the shelf of our library, also located in Lower Ballena. Working on a writing project? The library also has a lovely table inspirational views out the window.
As beautiful as the interior is, there's nothing compared to the oversized deck. Guests can enjoy rocking chairs and sunsets that candy color the sky and overlook our vineyard and equestrian center.
Recommended for friends and groups that want to be all together and don't mind sharing a bathroom. Ballena can also be exclusively rented for your group or team.
Please note, to book multiple rooms, you will need to register for each room as a separate registration. Contact us if you are attending with other guests and we will do our best to get you all together, although it is not guaranteed we can do so and help you with the registration process.
Click here to take a virtual walk through Ballena
Birdie Rose-Female Bunkhouse, individual rooms
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Have your own room or bunk with up to 3 of your friends in Birdie Rose, our 6 bedroom, female bunkhouse.
Each room has two built in, twin-sized bunkbeds (two accessible with a ladder, two accessible from the ground). Each cozy bed has a reading light, USB port and a private closet with deep drawers for each guest. This is not your child's bunk room, with sliding barn doors and shiplap walls, this space is right out of a magazine any adult will enjoy.
Birdie Rose also has two common areas and a deck with amazing views of the sunrise and foothills. Guests will enjoy late night laughs and lasting connections!
Recommended for females that want a private room, or, are registering with up to 3 other known roommates. We do not assign roommates. Great for people attending retreat looking for an affordable option and do not mind sharing a bathroom with other guests.
Please note, if you are registering separately but would like to room with someone you know, please contact us. If you are registering together, please select the number of guests in your room.
Click here to take a virtual tour of Birdie Rose
Maverick-Male Bunkhouse, individual rooms
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Have your own room or bunk with up to 3 of your friends in Maverick, our 6 bedroom, male bunkhouse.
Each room has two built in, twin-sized bunkbeds, two accessible with a ladder, two accessible from the ground. Each cozy bed has a reading light, USB port and a private closet with deep drawers for each guest. This is not your child's bunk room, with sliding barn doors and shiplap walls, this space is right out of a magazine that any adult would enjoy.
Maverick also has two common areas and a deck with amazing views of the sunrise and foothills. It is also located closest to our hiking trails so guests can jump right on and get outdoors! Save big and make friends in Maverick!
Recommended for males that want a private bunk room, or, are registering with up to 3 other known roommates. Great for people attending retreat looking for an affordable option and do not mind sharing a bathroom with other guests.
Please note, if you are registering separately but would like to room with someone you know, please contact us.
Click here to take a virtual tour of Maverick
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