about
I Help Women Tell the Stories They've Been Carrying for Years
For over 30 years, I've been in the business of storytelling—sharing the stories of Greater Clevelanders as a journalist and marketing professional. Sharing their experiences in ways that transform both writer and reader.
My Journey to Becoming a Memoir Coach
Shelley M. Shockley is a strategic communicator, writer, and community advocate passionate about amplifying the voices of Greater Clevelanders. With deep roots in the city and a career spanning journalism, public service, and entrepreneurship, she brings a unique blend of storytelling and strategy to every endeavor.
Shelley most recently served as Marketing Manager for Cleveland Public Power, where she led strategic communications for the municipally owned utility and shaped its long-term brand presence. Her expertise spans special event planning, media relations, and community engagement—all anchored in results-driven leadership.
A seasoned journalist, Shelley spent a decade reporting and editing for the Cleveland Call & Post, telling the stories that shape our communities. Today, she continues that legacy as Managing Editor of Phenomenal Woman Magazine and founder of Shelley M. Shockley Communications, where she empowers writers, businesses, and organizations to communicate with clarity and impact.
Whether working behind the scenes or at the front of the room, Shelley is known for her creativity, confidence, and commitment to excellence. She believes that strong communication builds strong communities—and she’s dedicated her career to proving it.
When she's not creating change through words and strategy, Shelley enjoys life with her husband, Keith Rutledge.
She often says, “Many people dream of worthy accomplishments—I stay awake and do them.”
What I Bring to Your Memoir
30+ Years of Communications Strategy
I've built my career on understanding how to craft compelling narratives that connect with audiences. I know what makes a story resonate, what keeps readers engaged, and how to structure experiences into a cohesive narrative arc.
Deep Understanding of Women's Stories
I've worked with women across industries, backgrounds, and life stages. I understand the unique challenges women face when sharing their truth - the fear of judgment, the worry about hurting feelings, the pressure to make everyone comfortable even when telling uncomfortable truths.
A Proven Process That Works
I don't just tell you to "write what you know." I give you a clear, step-by-step roadmap from that terrifying blank page to a finished manuscript you're proud of. Structure. Accountability. Support. Everything you need to actually complete your memoir.
The Ability to See What You Can't
Sometimes you're too close to your own story to see what makes it powerful. I can identify the moments that matter most, the themes that tie everything together, and the emotional core that will make readers unable to put your book down.
Here's What I Believe About Memoir Writing
Your story doesn't have to be dramatic to be important.
You don't need a Hollywood-worthy plot. You need honesty, vulnerability, and the courage to show the messy, complicated truth of how you became who you are.
You don't have to be a "writer" to write a memoir.
You just need to be willing to tell the truth and do the work. I'll teach you everything else.
The best memoirs aren't written by people who have it all figured out.
They're written by women brave enough to share the journey - the questions, the confusion, the moments of clarity, and the ongoing process of becoming.
You can't write a powerful memoir while trying to manage everyone else's emotions.
Your memoir is your truth. Not the sanitized version. Not the version that makes you look perfect. The real, honest, sometimes uncomfortable truth.
Your story is someone else's survival guide.
The experiences you think are "too ordinary"? They're the permission slip another woman needs to believe she can survive, heal, start over, or speak up.
WHAT PEOPLE ARE SAYING
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