Academic Writing Coach
& Developmental Editor
Jenn McClearen, Ph.D.
I help scholars design the meaningful writing lives they want.
You became a scholar because you love ideas, learning, and making a meaningful contribution to the world through your work. Writing is one of the most powerful ways you do that.
And yet, academia’s high-pressure environment—with its relentless demands and systemic barriers—can leave you feeling like there's no time or energy left for the writing that matters most. The kind of writing that drew you to this work in the first place.
But it doesn’t have to be this way.
Through academic writing coaching, developmental editing, and online courses, I help scholars develop your writing in ways that work in real life—so you can clarify your arguments, revise with confidence, finish your manuscripts, and share your scholarship with the world.
Hi, I’m Jenn.
I’m an academic writing coach and developmental editor who helps scholars bring their best scholarship to life—and the creator of Publish Not Perish, a bestselling Substack newsletter on academic writing.
I know what it’s like to struggle with writing; early in my academic career, I felt stuck and unsure, too. But I also learned what it takes to write with clarity and confidence, eventually building a successful faculty career before dedicating my work to supporting other scholars.
Now, I help researchers pursue meaningful scholarship without compromising their values or well-being. Whether you’re refining a manuscript through developmental editing or building a sustainable writing practice through coaching, I’ll support you in developing the tools, strategies, and mindsets you need to succeed as a scholarly writer—on your own terms.
How I Can Support You
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Writing Coaching
Struggling to make progress on your writing? I offer personalized coaching to help you develop a consistent writing routine, manage large projects, navigate perfectionism or procrastination, and move forward with clarity. Together, we'll create and execute a plan that supports your goals—and your well-being.
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Developmental Editing
Developing a book manuscript or proposal? I offer developmental editing to strengthen your argument, structure, and voice. You'll receive comprehensive feedback with concrete revision strategies—helping you finish with a manuscript you're proud of and ready to publish.
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Self-Paced Courses
My online courses cater to busy scholars seeking flexible and practical support. Whether you're trying to clarify your argument or build a sustainable writing practice, you'll find guidance grounded in experience and compassion. Learn at your own pace, with tools you can apply right away.
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Free Newsletter & Podcast
My newsletter and podcast, Publish Not Perish, offer weekly insights, writing tips, and encouragement for academic life. I share behind-the-scenes stories, strategies that actually work, and honest reflections to help you stay motivated. It's a free dose of support, delivered straight to your inbox.
Struggling to keep a regular writing practice?
You’re not alone
—and it’s not just a matter of willpower.
That’s why I created a free on-demand webinar:
You’ll walk away with clear next steps you can start using right away—no pressure, just supportive guidance you can adapt to your needs.