Niamh Cooper
How to Unlock the Writer Within You with Niamh Cooper Ep 254 - The Global Discussion
Niamh Cooper has a way with words. Whether she's helping a global brand craft compelling content or guiding aspiring writers to start their first story, her passion for storytelling runs deep. In a recent episode of The Global Discussion with Host Simon Hodgkins, Niamh shared her journey as a writer, educator, editor, and founder of WordMatters, a creative hub dedicated to writing, language, and connection.
Niamh was featured in the earlier days of The Global Interview. Now, with new projects and fresh perspectives, her return to the show is not just timely, it's inspiring.
From Bilingual Roots to a Life of Words
Niamh's relationship with language began at an early age. Raised in Germany by a West Cork mother and an American father, she grew up immersed in multiple languages, dreaming in German, studying French and English, and eventually setting her sights on Ireland to hone her English skills and start her adult life.
Both of her parents were teachers, which not only instilled a love for education but also taught her the value of adaptability. "I was probably about 13 when I started teaching impromptu English lessons," she laughed, recalling how her mother's double-booked calendar pushed her into action.
That early mix of creativity, structure, and quick thinking now fuels everything she does, from corporate content writing to mentoring first-time authors.
The Heart Behind Word Matters
At the core of Niamh's current work is WordMatters, a business born from her desire to bring the human touch back to writing. In an era where AI-generated content is ubiquitous, she recognized a need for a more thoughtful approach. WordMatters is part content agency, part creative community. It helps businesses with everything from website copy to social media strategy while also nurturing individuals who want to explore their own stories.
"I've worked with big names like Microsoft and Amazon," she said. "But I've also written for local cafes in West Cork. It's all about understanding the voice behind the brand or the person."
And her love of education hasn't gone away. The Writer's Corner within WordMatters is a space designed to encourage people who feel stuck or uncertain to start writing. Whether it's a book idea or a simple short story, Niamh believes everyone has something worth sharing.
Rising to the Challenge
For someone who thrives on creative momentum, it's no surprise that Niamh is drawn to challenges. Recently, she participated in the Stan Challenge, a 30-day commitment to building and promoting a digital storefront through Stan Store, a tool championed by entrepreneur Steven Bartlett. But she didn't stop there.
Inspired by her own experience starting a novel while on a yoga retreat in the Algarve, Niamh launched her 30-day writing challenge: Start Your Story. The challenge is open to everyone and free to download through her Stan Store. It offers a gentle, non-judgmental way to help people start writing without pressure or perfectionism. "It's about building the habit," she said. "Not chasing word counts."
A Unique Retreat Experience
The retreat that sparked her recent creative breakthrough is now turning into something even bigger. In October, Niamh will co-host a "Find Your Voice" retreat in the Algarve with her friend and breathwork facilitator, Véronique Gauthier-Simmons of Taming the Walrus. This weekend getaway combines writing with yoga and breathwork, providing a truly holistic space for individuals to reconnect with themselves and their creativity.
"It's a place where people aren't judged," she explained. "And where they can finally make time to start telling their stories."
Growing WordMatters
In the coming months, Niamh is focused on growing WordMatters, continuing her writing challenge, and finishing the novel she started in Portugal. She's also committed to helping more people find their voice, especially women at transitional stages in life who are looking to rediscover their identity and creativity.
As a writer, editor, and advocate for personal expression, Niamh isn't just telling stories; she's helping others tell theirs, too.
About The Global Discussion
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