Kim Ramsey-Winkler

Kim offers three types of presentations. One is purely motivational/transformational, in which she includes personal anecdotes and humor to guide the audience to an understanding of their ability to create and control their lives. The presentation includes interaction between Kim and the audience, and can be tailored for length, audience size, and age (teen or adult).

The second presentation also includes transformation and motivation, but is tied in with the themes of Kim's Jo Ramsey books, which present teens who face choices and changes in their lives. This presentation can be altered slightly to focus more on the books and the publication process, and can also be tailored for length, audience size, and age, though it is intended primarily for middle school and high school students.

The third presentation is intended for elementary school students, and focuses on respecting oneself and others, including the line between disrespect and bullying. This interactive presentation includes the opportunity for students to roleplay various scenarios in which disrespect and bullying might occur, and more positive ways to handle those scenarios.

Kim Ramsey-Winkler has been writing stories since she figured out how to make those funny squiggles on paper. Her first fan was her kindergarten teacher, who was happy to let Kim write stories based on books in the classroom library to keep her occupied and out of trouble.

Over the years, Kim's life has changed course many times, and abuse and trauma have gotten in the way of some dreams. But each time, she found ways to roll with the changes and to continue creating positives in her life. She incorporates these experiences, and her message of self-acceptance, into her speaking and writing.

Under the pen name Jo Ramsey, Kim writes stories for teens--and adults who enjoy YA fiction--presenting characters who find the power to become heroes in their own lives and sometimes the lives of others. Kim particularly enjoys writing about "typical" teens who have not-so-typical experiences, such as battling the forces of darkness or having the psychic power to set fires with one's mind.

Kim is the mother of two now-adults, a former teacher, and a trying-to-be singer/songwriter in addition to her coaching, speaking, and writing. She lives in Lynn, Massachusetts, with her husband and three cats, one of whom, like Kim, has refused to grow up. She also spends considerable time with her partner, who is her chief overlord--er, encouragement and guide in her business endeavors.