Empowering Writers.
Crafting Stories That Matter.
Clay Stafford has had an eclectic career as an author, filmmaker, story and creative consultant, actor, composer, educator, public speaker, business leader, and founder of the Killer Nashville International Writers’ Conference, voted the #1 writers’ conference in the U.S. by The Writer magazine, as well as founder of the Killer Nashville University streaming service, publisher of Killer Nashville Magazine, and monthly columnist for Writer’s Digest
He has sold nearly four million copies of his works in over sixteen languages.
Empowering Writers.
Crafting Stories That Matter.
Clay Stafford has had an eclectic career as an author, filmmaker, story and creative consultant, actor, composer, educator, public speaker, business leader, and founder of the Killer Nashville International Writers’ Conference, voted the #1 writers’ conference in the U.S. by The Writer magazine, as well as founder of the Killer Nashville University streaming service, publisher of Killer Nashville Magazine, and monthly columnist for Writer’s Digest.
He has sold nearly four million copies of his works in over sixteen languages.
Invite Clay to Speak
Inspires. Educates. Connects.
“We are proud to have you on the Army Team.”
– Gary L. Anderson, Department of the Army, U.S. Department of Defense
Clay offers engaging presentations tailored to your needs, including:
- Keynote speeches
- Workshops (45-min, half/full-day, or multi-day retreats)
- Custom topics for your organization
A seasoned speaker with over 1 million live audience members, Clay has presented everywhere from the South Dakota Festival of Books to the U.S. Department of Defense.
Clay’s Community – Past & Present
Clay Stafford’s Writer-Focused Success Points Newsletter
The Success Points Newsletter includes weekly articles for writers covering the rotating topics of business & financial management, writing techniques & craft mastery, marketing & branding, the publishing industry, productivity & mindset, networking & community building, and career longevity.
PLUS, you’ll get Clay’s ebook The 7 Truths Every Writer Needs to Hear for FREE when you subscribe.
Clay Stafford’s Writer-Focused Success Points Newsletter
The Success Points Newsletter includes weekly articles for writers covering the rotating topics of business & financial management, writing techniques & craft mastery, marketing & branding, the publishing industry, productivity & mindset, networking & community building, and career longevity.
PLUS, you’ll get Clay’s ebook The 7 Truths Every Writer Needs to Hear for FREE when you subscribe.
Success Points Highlights
Patience: The Invisible Skill That Builds Every Writing Career
In this inspiring piece, Clay Stafford explores patience as the hidden foundation of every successful writing career. Through insight, encouragement, and practical advice, he reminds writers that progress happens quietly, through consistent effort and long-term devotion to the craft—one word, one page, one day at a time.
Build a Platform: Developing a Presence That Connects
A writer’s platform isn’t about shouting to be heard—it’s about connection. In this insightful piece, Clay Stafford reframes platform-building as an act of service and authenticity. Discover how to define who you are, what you stand for, and why your voice matters to build genuine relationships that last.
Show, Don’t Tell: Use Sensory Details to Immerse Readers in Your Story
“Show, don’t tell” isn’t just a writing cliché—it’s the heartbeat of immersive storytelling. In this piece, Clay Stafford explores how sensory details, specificity, and subtext transform simple narration into a living experience. Learn how to make readers feel your story, not just read it.
Recent News
Killer Nashville
In 2006, Stafford founded the Killer Nashville International Writers’ Conference, which aims to connect writers, forensic experts, and fans of crime and thriller literature. Writer Magazine has recognized it as the #1 writers’ conference in the U.S.
Killer Nashville Magazine
For all genres incorporating elements of mystery, thriller, suspense, action and/or romance. Selections from Killer Nashville have been included in The Best Mystery Stories of the Year anthologies and The Best American Mystery Stories anthologies.
Killer Nashville University is your nexus for innovation and inspiration. Clay Stafford has curated a trove of audio treasures, enlightening lectures, and invaluable insights designed to ignite the creative spirit in every visionary. Every note, every word, every lesson serves as kindling. Get ready to fan the flames of your imagination.