In this episode of Coffee Talk with Bryan and Marie, we sit down with Erin Schalk — a writer, editor, and interdisciplinary artist whose work bridges storytelling, visual art, and Education. With an MFA from the School of the Art Institute of Chicago, Erin has built a career centered on voice, accessibility, and the human experience. Her writing appears in respected literary journals, her artwork has been exhibited internationally, and her teaching spans more than a decade of developing inclusive, art‑driven programs.
Married to a retired veteran, Erin brings a unique perspective on resilience, creativity, and the power of expression. She works closely with writers to strengthen narrative structure, emotional depth, and authenticity, while also designing workshops that blend art, writing, and inclusive practices for diverse communities. This conversation explores the craft, the heart, and the purpose behind Erin’s work — and how creativity becomes a bridge between lived experience and meaningful connection.