Writer's Retreat
October 15th, 2026, Hillsburgh, ON
Whether you’re ready to write a novel or ready to take time to unwind, this retreat will leave you feeling renewed and inspired.
This curated day will include plenty of free time for writing* as well as guided group activities to calm the nervous system and get the creative juices flowing. We welcome published authors and "I'm-not-a-writer"-writers and everything in between.
Lunch, and snacks are provided.
Space is limited.
*Writing could be a book, a story, a poem, a business plan, an email marketing series, a speech for your sister's wedding, a letter to a long-lost friend, and everything in between.
Who is Sarah Kinlin?
Sarah Kinlin is a leadership keynote speaker, author, and creator of the Grit, Grace & Goals framework: a mindset approach that helps individuals and teams build confidence, resilience, and leadership.
Drawing on more than 20 years of leadership experience at Johnson & Johnson, Sarah brings real-world insight to every stage, helping audiences pursue big, fun, scary goals with the right balance of grit and grace.
Through powerful storytelling and practical leadership lessons, Sarah equips athletes, leaders, and organizations to grow into their full potential.
Her first book, Grit, Grace, and Goals: Lessons from My Dad, Leader of Nine Kids and a Nuclear Station, was published in April 2025 and continues to inspire readers across sport, leadership, and life. The companion Grit, Grace, and Goals Oracle Deck, was published in September 2026, and the kids' version is coming soon!
Sarah lives just outside Guelph, Ontario with her husband Steve, their two adult kids, Frank & Charlie, and one actual kid named Libby.
NEW! Grit, Grace, and Goals, Oracle Deck
Grit, Grace, & Goals: An Oracle Deck is here to remind you that you don’t need to choose between action (grit) and rest (grace). You need both.
The deck includes 47 affirmations because 47 was my first house number, and my dad was born in 1947. 47 also brings a message of congratulations and encouragement that you are on the right path.
Use these cards to find the right balance of grit and grace to set and achieve your goals with ease.
Sample card shown in product images. The front is an affirmation, and the back is a short narrative and a journal prompt for you to explore the topic further.
Press play to watch Sarah move audiences to lead with grit & grace.
Leadership Keynote Speaker
Sarah is a highly energetic and engaging story teller. Topics can be presented as a keynote address or through interactive workshops, in 30-90 minutes.
Writing Circle Details
In this online writing circle, we will begin with a welcome circle for introductions, and then we will write for about 60-70 minutes. In the final 30 minutes, we will have a sharing circle (totally optional). Maybe you'll write a poem, journal, essay, blog, chapter of a book, or even doodles on a page. We're creating a space for creativity to flow.
Please use this link to book whichever sessions you can attend. You will receive a calendar invite after you confirm.
Mindset Coach
Learn more about CoachingSarah offers individual, group, and team coaching to help you and your teams develop the leadership skills required to be successful.
In her signature Grit & Grace coaching program, Sarah helps clients to develop the right balance of grit and grace to set and achieve goals with ease.
Educator & Faciliator
Sarah is a brilliant educator, who can make almost any topic interesting. If you have boring, annual corporate leadership training, why not ask Sarah to make it more engaging? Sarah can also turn any of her keynotes into interactive workshops for your employees.
Podcast Guest
It's my goal to have my own podcast one day. Until then, you can listen to me enjoy air time on a variety of podcasts.
Blog
My blog is a tribute to my late brother, Jon, who was a professional writer and expert communicator. I publish new blogs when I feel the call... check back often to see what I've written, or join my mailing list to stay up to date. Be sure to let me know if you have any feedback or if there is a topic you want to learn more about.
Follow me on Instagram
Looking for a daily dose of inspiration?
Follow me on Instagram @pearlperformanceinc
It's me, there almost daily, in my stories, sharing a behind-the-scenes look at my life and business. Unfiltered, unedited, me being me. Feel free to DM me, I'd love to hear from you.