storyteller · connector · bosom friend
Amanda Elaine West
Welcome, precious friend—I'm SO thankful you're here. Come. Sit a spell.
About Amanda Elaine wesT
A Writer With Heart
Over the last four years, I've interviewed hundreds of people for articles published by The Exchange Media Group in their markets across Middle Tennessee; Bowling Green, Kentucky; Lynchburg, Virginia; and (soon to be) Huntsville, Alabama. I've also served as the lead writer for Good News Shelbyville magazine since 2024. Through the years, I have created bios for business owners, written marketing mail-outs for new businesses, and collaborated with a team of designers, freelance writers, proofreaders, and photographers to publish close to 100 magazines since 2022.
Coaching & Mentorship
You Were Made to Write
I believe every writer carries a story only they can tell. Sometimes all you need is someone to sit beside you, read your words with care, and remind you that your voice matters. Whether you're just beginning or working through a manuscript that won't quite come together, I'd love to walk alongside you.
Work With Me
Freelance Writing
Turn Your Passion for Writing into a Profession
From pitch to published to paid — I taught a class on exactly that. If you've ever wondered how to turn your love of writing into a real, working career, this podcast episode is for you. Tune in as I walk through the steps that took me from aspiring writer to published professional.
Listen to the PodcastFree Resource for Coaching Clients
When you book a coaching appointment with me, you'll receive a PDF of my booklet “Kickstart Your Freelance Writing Career.” I'll help you discover your unique writing niche. We'll walk together as you learn the art of conducting an interview, and I'll help you create a list of questions. I'll give you the pointers I wish someone had given me. Let's build your freelance writing career together. So you will have the tools to go from “Pitch to Published to Paid" like I have done!
Book a Coaching Appointment →Why Coach With Amanda
A Mentor Who Has Walked the Path
Booking a coaching session with me is like pulling up a chair at your favorite coffee shop and bearing your heart to your best friend — someone who truly listens, genuinely encourages, and knows exactly how to help you find your way to the page.
I have sat across from — and on the phone with — over 300 people, learning to draw out the details that matter and shape them into stories readers connect with.
Hundreds of published articles across multiple markets have sharpened my instinct for what editors want and what audiences remember.
Multiple writing awards, including first place for contemporary fiction and second place for historical fiction at the Florida Christian Writers Conference.
I founded and lead Word Weavers South Middle Tennessee, guiding writers from raw idea to finished, publishable work using the Sandwich Method as taught by Word Weavers International.
What I bring to every session
- Freelance writing & pitching
- Guiding your every step
- Extracting the story that matters
- Brainstorming ideas to publication
- "The Sandwich Method" debuted by (Word Weavers International)
- Encouragement & accountability
Word Weavers International
Word Weavers International is a nonprofit organization dedicated to helping Christian writers grow in their craft through community, critique, and encouragement. Founded on the belief that writers are stronger together, Word Weavers chapters meet regularly to share work, offer feedback using the time-tested Sandwich Method, and cheer one another toward publication. With chapters across the country and online, Word Weavers has helped thousands of writers find their voice, finish their manuscripts, and step boldly into their calling.
Learn More at word-weavers.comWord Weavers International
You Are Cordially Invited
Word Weavers South Middle Tennessee
We gather on the third Saturday of each month to read, critique, encourage, and grow — together. Whether you write fiction, nonfiction, poetry, or devotionals, there is a seat at the table for you. Come as you are. Bring what you have. Leave a little more certain that your words matter.
150 Fairfield Pike, Shelbyville, TN 37160
Reach out to Amanda for more information.
Ready to Begin Your Story?
Explore my works, learn about coaching, or simply wander through the pages. There's always something worth discovering.