Tom Joyner, Phd

Specialties

Writing Coach

I’m not a big fan of the word «tutor.» It reinforces the whole teacher-​at-​the-​front-​of-​the-​class-​talking-​at-​you approach and all the latest research shows that those methods don’t work anymore, if they ever did.

I prefer the term «coach» because it suggests we’re on the same team and that I’m in your corner assisting your learning process instead of imposing my knowledge on you. Yes, I bring some expertise to the table — some specialized knowledge and some methods and approaches that are proven to work — but ultimately, you’re the one in the game. You’re the one who’s got to win it. I provide tools, strategies, emotional support, encouragement, and advice. You do the work and reap the rewards of meeting or exceeding your own expectations.

History

Established in 1998.

Coaching and teaching on and off since 1998 in Colorado, Florida, Virginia, and now Oregon.

Meet the Business Owner

Tom J.

Business Owner

Thomas Joyner holds a Ph.D. and an M.A. in Theatre from the University of Colorado and is a versatile creative talent based in Portland, Oregon. His wide-​ranging résumé includes work as a theatre educator, scholar, director, dramaturg, performer, freelance writer, and business manager. As an educator, Tom has taught at the University of Central Florida, Eastern Mennonite University, the University of Colorado, and Rollins College. He has worked as a director, actor, and dramaturg with community, university, and professional theatres in Florida, Colorado, and Virginia, including the Orlando Shakespeare Theatre and Colorado Shakespeare Festival. During and prior to graduate school, he enjoyed a freelance career primarily in the comic book industry, co-​creating and writing 3 original series for DC Comics and providing scripts and trading card copy for several others. Tom is currently with a Japanese game developer to bring their unique downloadable game content to an American market.