Ruthie Ackerman is an award-winning journalist, editor, and writer who has worked with hundreds of writers, at all levels, to unearth the story beneath their stories and help shape the mess and muck of their lives into tales they’re proud to tell. 

Ruthie approaches the writing process with the three I’s: Inspire, Ignite, Illuminate. Whether her students are writing memoirs, fiction, or personal essays, or they’re still finding their footing, she starts by inspiring them with the writers she loves and admires. She then ignites their creativity and passion and illuminates the way forward to bring their stories to life.

Ruthie started Ignite Writers Collective in 2019 as a way to work with writers at all stages of their careers, sharing her insights from years as an editor and writer. Her client wins include a USA Today best seller, six-figure book deals with Big 5 publishers, representation by buzzy book agents, and essays in prestigious outlets.