Roadmap Screenwriting Retreat (Fall 2022 - September 16-21) – Big Bear Lake, CA

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From $1,999.00
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Sold Out - Waitlist Available!
Join industry execs and the RoadCrew from September 16 – 21, 2022, for 5 nights in the mountains at a private lakefront cabin and nearby lodge in Big Bear Lake, CA!
 
SOLD OUT!!

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Big Bear Collage

 

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Big Bear - MAIN HOUSE COMMON AREA
 
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Big Bear - MAIN
 
Do you dream of focused writing time surrounded by other dedicated writers, industry pros, pine trees, and lakeside cocktails under the stars?
Then you're in luck 'cause Roadmap is hitting the road to beautiful Big Bear Lake, CA — be one of the select few to join us on our first fall screenwriter retreat!
 

Story Development and Career Advice with...

Garrick Dion (Producer/Manager, 5X Media)

and Maddie Breeland (Director of Development, Anvil Pictures)!


Plus, choose from RoadCrew craft & marketing sessions including: 

  • Marketing Prep with Joey Tuccio (Roadmap's CEO)
  • Logline Prep with Dorian Connelley (Roadmap's COO)
  • The Industry Mindset with James Moorer (Roadmap's Director of Diversity Initiatives & Writer Outreach)
  • Improv Skills for Writers with Tristan J Shuler (Roadmap's Director of Access Programs)
  • Branding Prep with Terra Joy (Roadmap's Director of Consultations)
  • Mindfulness for Creatives with Melody Herr (writer/director/producer)

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Big Bear - GAME ROOM

Who Should attend?

Screenwriters who are ready to put in some serious writing time while welcoming fall in one of Southern California's most popular leisure destinations.

What to Expect

After getting settled in your well-appointed room, join our industry exec(s), the RoadCrew, and your fellow writers at a welcome cocktail party—then get ready to dive into what promises to be a career-changing week!
Each day starts with an optional lakeside meditative stretching session followed by a delicious continental breakfast. Quiet writing blocks, valuable breakout sessions with our team, table reads, and scheduled meetings will round out the rest of each day. 
Relax as our personal chef prepares daily meals and cocktails at our private lakeside cabin that features an outdoor kitchen, ample outdoor seating, hot tub, fire pit, game room, ping pong & pool tables, and easy access to Big Bear Lake Village and Marina.
Don’t worry, there will be plenty of time to recharge and get inspired. Network and bond with fellow writers, explore the area, or participate in one or more of several exciting excursions such as hiking, stargazing, Oktoberfest, or a murder mystery dinner game.

Optional LA General Meetings Field Trip add-on:

Want to hang around LA for a few more days to take an in-person general meeting or two?  Prior to the retreat, Joey will reach out to 5-8 execs with your logline and bio to set up in-person general meeting(s) with additional interested exec(s)* in LA between 9/21-9/23 (you are responsible for your own meals, travel, and accommodations).
*You are guaranteed at least one in-person general meeting but we'll set you up with as many interested execs as we can!
+$199 [contact us for availability]

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Big Bear - FIRE PIT

All options include 6 days / 5 nights:
  • accommodations at our private lakefront cabin or the nearby lodge
  • daily continental breakfast
  • daily light lunch
  • 3 catered dinners (1 night will be an Oktoberfest excursion + 1 night on your own to explore what the Village has to offer)
  • opening and closing cocktail parties
  • one-on-one meeting with one of our resident industry execs
  • your choice of up to 3 retreat sessions

Not included: 2 dinners/Oktoberfest, drinks, recreational activities, ground transportation, or airfare.


Lodge Room Options:

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Big Bear - ROOMS (2 Queens)

 

Deluxe Queen Suite (2 Queen Beds) – Women's Shared Room – $1,999 [2 available] 
Deluxe Queen Suite (2 Queen Beds) – Men's Shared Room – $1,999 [2 available] 
Deluxe Queen Suite (2 Queen Beds) – Private Room – $2,999 [5 available] 
Deluxe King Suite (1 King Bed) – Private Room – $3,249 [3 available]  
Master Screenwriter Suite (1 King Bed) – Private Room – $3,499 [2 available]
**For double occupancy in a Private Room, add $1,000.
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Big Bear - KING SUITE (Cropped)

 

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Big Bear - MASTER SCREENWRITER SUITE

 


Want the VIP RoadCrew Experience?

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Big Bear - MAIN HOUSE VIP SUITE
 
In the Lakeside Cabin VIP Screenwriter Suite, you'll live alongside execs and the RoadCrew for the entire retreat!
$4,499 single occupancy / $5,499 double occupancy [SOLD OUT]

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Big Bear - OUTDOOR SPACE

 


COVID Protocols

Vaccines: All participants must show proof of full vaccination (including applicable boosters) against COVID-19 within 7 days of registration. 

COVID Tests: Proof of a negative COVID test is required no more than 24 hours prior to arrival. You will also need to take a rapid COVID test upon arrival and at other intervals throughout the retreat as needed.

Masks: All participants must wear an N-95 or KN95 face mask during ALL portions of travel from when you leave your house to when you arrive at the retreat cabin. While we do not expect to require face masks at the cabin, face masks will be required in indoor settings outside of the cabin. All offsite dining must be outdoors.


*If you opt for the 50% deposit option, the balance will be due no later than 08/26/2022. If you need a special payment plan, contact dorian@roadmapwriters.com.
More about
Roadmap Writers

Roadmap Writers is a talent training and discovery platform for screenwriters ready for a guided path to success. Our programs are hosted by working industry executives and are designed to empower writers with actionable tools and insights to elevate your craft and cultivate relationships with industry professionals. Since 2016, we have helped hundreds of writers from all over the world sign to representation, staff on series, and option and produce their projects. Our writers have been staffed on BRIDGERTON, THE FLASH, CHICAGO PD, THE FIRST LADY, NIGHT COURT, THE GOOD DOCTOR, THE RESIDENT, REACHER, SUBJECT TO CHANGE, MAYANS and POKERFACE. Writers have sold, set up and been produced by Netflix, Amazon, Hulu, MGM, American High, New Republic Pictures, Maven Screen Media, Lifetime, Will Packer Studios and Roku. 

Joey Tuccio
CEO & Co-Founder
Roadmap Writers
joey@roadmapwriters.com

Joey started in the industry at Bold Films (DRIVE, NIGHTCRAWLER, WHIPLASH) and has read for Hugh Jackman's company, George Clooney's company, and Night and Day Pictures, to name a few. Experiencing how hard it was for writers to receive real tangible advice on how to break into the industry, Joey and Dorian created Roadmap Writers over 7 years ago.  At Roadmap, Joey focuses on connecting vetted writers with execs in the industry. He has helped hundreds of writers connect to their representation, get staffed and get produced. He also mentors for Cinestory and The Writers Lab. When he's not helping writers, he spends his time rescuing animals in need. 

Dorian Connelley
Co-Founder/COO
Roadmap Writers
dorian@roadmapwriters.com

Dorian was fresh off working for producer Mark Ciardi (THE ROOKIE, MIRACLE, CHAPPAQUIDDICK) when she co-founded Roadmap Writers as its COO where she has been teaching writers how to pitch (whether they like it or not) ever since. With years of experience in talent management, live events, and feature film producing, Dorian is also a proud Returned Peace Corps Volunteer (Guinea/Mali '08-'10). When she's not helping writers perfect their pitches, Dorian can be found at music festivals and karaoke bars.

James Moorer
Director of Writer Outreach & Diversity Initiatives
Roadmap Writers
james@roadmapwriters.com

James is a best-selling author, working screenwriter, producer, director, and motivational speaker who loves to find a way to succeed. James has also worked as an actor and voice talent on numerous projects. He is a member of the Organization of Black Screenwriters and was recently accepted into the Independent Writers Caucus.  He recently celebrated his first script sale of 2024, and his production company, Hammerjaxx Films, has previously sponsored one of the prizes in our Diversity Initiative. Ever creating, James launched Dark Anthem Press, a division of One Moorer last fall for book-to-screen projects. He's passionate about finding the story within the story and helping writers find both their voice and their own given greatness. His other passion is being the San Fernando Valley's expert on Pancakes.

Terra Joy
Director of Consultations & Script Services
Roadmap Writers
terra@roadmapwriters.com
Terra Joy started her career in Washington, DC as a journalist where she also managed a documentary film campaign, resulting in 115+ screenings in under nine months. She was also very active in the local screenwriting community as a member of WIF. Before joining the RoadCrew, she was a reader for Slamdance. She has read over a thousand scripts, and has seen the trends in feedback from execs on over 5K. Terra is also a professional proofreader and line editor, and a staffwriter on Season 2 of FORNICAKES -- an award winning webseries about two polar opposite best friends who open up an erotic bakery. As a writer, a craft and psychology nerd, and a Virgo with OCD, she loves to use her detail obsession to benefit story development. She's been to 35+ countries, has a B.A. in Political Science, and when she's not connecting awesome creative people with other awesome creative people, she's writing, or thinking about writing. Terra also enjoys boba tea, stand-up comedy, and breaking down shows and movies in preparation to launch a totally adorable yet ruthless living room podcast with her roommate Alex Davies.    
Tristan J Shuler
Director of Brand Management
Roadmap Writers
tristan@roadmapwriters.com

Currently performing in the world premiere of Craig Lucas' Prelude to a Kiss, the Musical, Tristan J is a repped screenwriter and Off-Broadway & National Tour playwright, actor, & director. Before becoming Roadmap Success Story #229, Tristan J was highlighted in YesBroadway's 40Under40 alongside Oscar-winner Ariana DeBose and Tony winners Adrienne Warren & Alex Newell. Tristan J created A Night of Play NYC, a board-game-infused playwriting incubator of new works from emerging playwrights in Brooklyn, NY, where Tristan J was raised on a military base in a blended multi-racial family. There's nothing Tristan J loves more than new voices & board games! An advocate for queer creators of color, Tristan J works to elevate & honor the creative process alongside our collective journey towards enlightenment! During his time with Roadmap Writers, Tristan has toured with Broadway musicals, worked on the desk at Bohemia Group Entertainment reporting directly to the head of talent & literary management, coached hundreds of writers and actors to signings and bookings, and is currently developing a slate of his own: including an original, co-written 1/2 hour workplace romantic comedy BRIDAL PARTY and his first feature film. Follow Tristan J on Twitter and Instagram for rumblings on musical theatre, spilling tea, and being a magical witch.

Melody Herr
Director of Retreats & GPS Fellowship

Award-winning writer-director Melody Herr likens her life to Eminem’s biopic: “If you’ve seen 8 MILE, then you know my life—minus the rapping.” Growing up three blocks north of Detroit’s famous dividing line meant she had to be as industrious as the factory next door. Both hardworking and adventurous, she fled Detroit to spend years living and traveling around the world with her growing family. Now she escapes through her passion for telling universal, female-driven stories that connect on an emotional level. Melody infuses heart and levity into her work to balance the heavy themes she often explores. Melody’s hour-long drama/comedy TAPPED OUT is a quarterfinalist in the 2022 PAGE Awards. Her latest produced short X-ED OUT won Best Drama at the 2021 London Indie Short Film Festival, and also received awards from Toronto, Vancouver, and other festivals worldwide. Melody earned her MFA in Writing for Film and TV at Emerson College and recently produced the feature film DIFFRACTION on the campus of Marquette University, where she teaches screenwriting.

Garrick Dion
Producer
Independent

A graduate of Ithaca College, Cape Cod native Garrick Dion is currently an Independent Producer. Most recently, Garrick was at 5X where he has partnered with Scott Einbinder (HITMAN’S BODYGUARD) and Seth Nagel (LAID TO REST). Garrick has over 25 years of experience in the film and television industry. He began his career as an intern for producer Joel Silver (THE MATRIX) and has worked as a studio development exec for WB, New Regency (BOHEMIAN RHAPSODY), Artisan/Lionsgate, and Bold Films (NIGHTCRAWLER, DRIVE, WHIPLASH). While at BRON studios (TULLY, THE FRONT RUNNER, CAPONE), Garrick started and oversaw the in-house genre label The Realm, for which he produced the sci-fi feature PROSPECT (based on the SXSW award-winning short) and the darkly comic thriller VILLAINS, both released through Gunpowder + Sky. Garrick has also been a screenwriter and consultant on various projects for WB (A WALK TO REMEMBER), Mandalay (THE LAST DAYS OF AMERICAN CRIME), Endgame (MURDER MYSTERY), and the SyFy Channel.

Maddie Breeland
Director of Development
Anvil Pictures

A graduate of Boston’s Emerson College with a degree in producing for film and TV, Maddie Breeland recently joined Dean DeBlois’ (HOW TO TRAIN YOUR DRAGON) Anvil Pictures, as Director of Development. Maddie began her career as a development assistant at Fox 2000 Pictures (THE HATE U GIVE; HIDDEN FIGURES; LOVE, SIMON) before working for Sean Bailey, President of Walt Disney live-action features, and eventually being promoted to development coordinator at Walt Disney Pictures (BEAUTY AND THE BEAST; ALADDIN; MULAN). At Anvil, Maddie will develop and produce live-action and hybrid content as part of their deal with Universal (JURASSIC WORLD; THE SECRET LIFE OF PETS; FURIOUS 7), including upcoming projects, TREASURE ISLAND and MICRONAUTS. She’s a fan of all genres but personally loves action, adventure, sci-fi/fantasy, thrillers, and true-crime documentaries. Maddie is a huge advocate for diversity and inclusion and aims to make content that promotes underrepresented groups.

Testimonials

Garrick Dion went above and beyond. His comments were not only technically sound, but well-rooted in reading “the market.” He was also very personable and overly generous with his time during the [Rewrite Clinic] session. Most importantly, his attention to and recall of detail was truly impressive in each and every case. His notes left me not weighed down with the humdrum thought of reworking structure, but with the true excitement of being able to logically and contemporaneously incorporate them into my work.

~ Bob Winston

A BIG thanks to Garrick Dion for his insightful, informative, and producer-conscious notes on my latest screenplays. After reading two of my scripts and offering detailed feedback, I can with 100% confidence say I have two scripts ready for circulation. He helped me bring my characters to life and lifted my action description off the page. He has tons of industry knowledge and will help you get your script exec-ready. I loved his down-to-earth personality and loyal attention to my career. I can't recommend Garrick enough!

~ Clint Ross, Screenwriter

Maddie has a terrific, collaborative imagination! After integrating Maddie's notes, my Sci-Fi Pilot, SOLARPUNKS, became a Semifinalist in the 2021 ScreenCraft Sci-Fi & Fantasy Screenwriting Competition.

~ Bradford Richardson, Screenwriter

Garrick helped me get to the heart of my story, to focus on the characters, not the plot, and to help them move the plot forward. That made all the difference. Once I made those changes, I was able to focus on his specific questions, which helped me fine-tune the characterizations and plot points. His knowledge of the industry was invaluable in teaching me what a script needs to sell. As a new screenwriter, living outside of the LA area, I was extremely grateful to learn this. I can’t recommend Garrick highly enough. Any screenwriter would be lucky to work with him.

~ Mary Beth W - Screenwriter

Pitch Prep with Dorian was challenging, clarifying, and motivating. You quickly learn how to talk about and market your writing, and you also build skills to vet future project ideas. I have not found this type of information in other programs. Highly recommended!

~ Amy Schleunes, Screenwriter

Spending any time with Joey is well worth it! He has the pulse of the industry and shares this vital information with all his writers. He is one of the most passionate advocates I've ever met and anyone is lucky to be in the same room as Joey Tuccio!

~ Gail Joy Stewart, Screenwriter

After YEARS of making films, winning festivals, and writing (yes, enjoy that humble brag), the Pitch Prep Program showed me how the entertainment industry actually worked. Furthermore, working with Tristan was a delight - he truly cares about the art of storytelling. I can't recommend doing this program enough!

~ Jared Januschka, Screenwriter

The Pitch Prep Program completely changed my understanding of how to effectively pitch. Pitching is hard and scary because we're all sensitive artists, but there is no better environment for someone uneasy on this than Tristan's pitch prep course. He brings you up to speed on the basics and before you know it, you're confidently speaking in front of development execs and literary managers and getting instant feedback that will not only make your pitch stronger, but literally make you a better storyteller for the rest of your career. Tristan teaches an incredible class and couldn't be a better teacher. Every single exercise he met with excitement and support, even when things needed fixing and we felt like idiots, Tristan was kind and encouraging when we needed it most as we put ourselves out in the open for the world to see. There are no safer hands to be in than his. Do not hesitate, just take this course. You will thank me later. I owe so much to this!

~ Andrew Jenner, Screenwriter

The Roadmap Writers' Pitch Prep program was my first encounter with pitching and I'm not gonna lie - I was terrified! Pitching face-to-face is something I've managed to avoid for years but I knew it was keeping me from fully committing to screenwriting as a career. But Holy Crap! With Tristan as my coach, I not only learned to write a stellar logline, pitch and synopsis - I learned to sell myself and my story in a face-to-face pitch. So far, I've pitched at least a dozen times leading to a nice handful of script requests!

~ Shauna Ratapu, Screenwriter

I refer to Pitch Prep as Film School 2.0 for a reason. Over the course of a month, you learn vital and beneficial lessons you can (and should) apply to every project you have. I learned more in Pitch Prep than I did in University! Uni taught me how to use Final Draft, but Pitch Prep taught me how to brand myself, tell my story, and how to move forward progressively in my writing career. I would honestly recommend this to anyone who is ready to move up in their career but doesn't know where to start. The notes (especially from my coach Tristan) are cutthroat, but what you learn is invaluable.

~ Gabby Font, Screenwriter

Taking Pitch Prep was one of the most impactful decisions I have made in my writing career. I had spent the last 18 years trying to break in as a writer in Los Angeles, to no avail. I sold a show 8 months after taking Pitch Prep and the things I learned from Tristan were directly responsible for my recent success. I literally did what he said and sold a show. He is kind, patient, funny and really breaks it down.

~ Joel Dovev, Screenwriter

With Tristan as your teacher, rest assured you are in the best hands for honing the crucial skill of pitching your writing projects. Pitch Prep proved to be a transformative experience for me. It provided invaluable insights on structuring my story pitches, making them both tangible and professionally appealing for studio executive meetings. As a new writer navigating the uncertainties, this class served up a feast of education. It stands out as my favorite, offering a comprehensive guide to unpacking the art of pitching.

~ Jayde Rossi, Screenwriter

It takes a special personality to successfully coax introverted writers out of their shells and help them feel good enough about themselves to make effective pitches. You have to balance honesty, compassion, and hope, and Tristan does this better than anyone I have worked with. He feels as much a partner as a coach.

~ Paul Schutte, Screenwriter

To say the least, because of Tristan’s help and guidance, I can take any of my projects and easily put them in perspective for a pitch, which is the guideline for my outline and the blueprint for any movie or pilot. With Tristan’s help in Pitch Prep I was able to reshape my feature, giving me the confidence and clarity to deliver my pitch in any room.

~ Attiyya S. Brown, Author/Screenwriter

Taking pitch prep with Tristan allowed me to take my career to the next level. Ever since I decided I wanted to pursue screenwriting, pitching absolutely terrified me. Working with such a supportive, upbeat, and positive teacher washed away my nerves and allowed me to shine in front of execs, while his expert script notes allowed me to elevate my story and gain tangible traction. I truly wouldn't be where I am without Tristan or pitch prep.

~ Colleen Glennon, Screenwriter

The Pitch Prep classes were invaluable and thorough, and Tristan’s witty sense of humor made the session times fly by. He was always dialed in, and his notes were actionable and easy to follow. Overall, Pitch Prep has improved my pitching by leaps and bounds. I couldn’t have asked for a better introduction to Roadmap. Tristan, thanks for all of the above. Your sessions are the reason I felt confident in continuing the program and why I can’t stop telling other writer friends about it.

~ Petula Miller, Screenwriter

Pitch Prep is simply the best program you can get. It’s a massive amount of useful info, a step by step guide, a safe space to get feedback on your pitch and story… and if you think you already have a good pitch, wait till Tristan does his magic on it, that’s when it’ll really shine!

~ Francesca Tatini, Screenwriter

Pitch Prep with Tristan took the mystery out of how the industry works. It doesn't matter how much time you put into writing, if you never learn how to properly pitch your work to industry pros. With Tristan as my coach, my writing and pitching leveled up. Take this course! You'll thank yourself someday.

~ Stella Ruggiero, Screenwriter

My month in Pitch Prep went beyond all expectations. I had so much growth and confidence in being who I am, authentically, as a writer. I felt like I was in a safe space, and Tristan and the Roadmap team worked tirelessly for us. So much time and effort were put into us in order to develop our brands and pitches as we prepare for careers as screenwriters. Months after Pitch Prep, I still remain in contact with the writers I met, which is invaluable!

~ Monica La Vella, Screenwriter

If you break out into cold sweats just thinking about pitching to execs, Tristan takes the edge off. Not only is he great about giving you clear and valuable feedback on how to improve your written and verbal pitching, he keeps things fun. You are in excellent hands with Tristan!

~ Jamie Okubo, Screenwriter

Pitch Prep was transformative for me. I deliberately chose a project that I struggled to eloquently describe, but Tristan J's instruction enabled me to rediscover my passion for the script, express it clearly, and answer the questions why this, why now, why me. Thanks to Pitch Prep, I was ready when practice ended and meetings began.

~ Jessica Jiji, Screenwriter

Tristan helped take my story and craft it into a tight, specific, and compelling pitch. It can be hard to see how to market your own work and it was immensely helpful to have Tristan’s input, edits, and feedback. He has a strong, clear point of view which helped my entire group translate their stories into market-ready pitches. I still can't believe how much we accomplished in a month!

~ Allison Mattox, Screenwriter

Tristan gave me the tools, skills, and confidence I needed to bring my pitch to the next level. I never thought I'd be comfortable presenting my show to executives, agents, and producers, but this program really changed everything for me.

~ Daniel Cox, Screenwriter

The Pitch Prep Intensive was truly worth every penny. Tristan genuinely cares about his students’ careers and goes the extra mile to ensure everyone in his group succeeds. He creates a very positive, supportive learning environment and coaches in a way that feels empowering. Working with Tristan taught me valuable pitching skills and also elevated my skills as a story-teller.

~ Lisa Summers, Screenwriter

Garrick proved to be worthy of his solid reputation. He had excellent ideas and insights, and we were able to workshop many problem areas of my (admittedly very complex) screenplay. He was generous with his time, thorough with his feedback, and thoughtful with his insights. An excellent experience - I would work with Garrick again in a heartbeat!

~ Kevin M. Jones, Screenwriter

Participating in Pitch Prep was one of the best decisions I’ve made for my career. Not only did I walk away with a killer pitch for my pilot thanks to my coach Tristan’s honest and actionable feedback, I became clearer and more confident in my brand as a writer. I’m so clear, that I’ve since fine-tuned all of my pilots with this refocused lens and they are all better for it!

~ Gesley Alexis, Screenwriter

How it Works
Payment Plans

If you opt for the 50% deposit option, the balance will be due no later than 02/15/2025. If you opt for the 25% deposit option, the remaining payments will be due 06/1/24, 11/1/24, & 02/15/25.

If you need a special payment plan, contact lorinne@roadmapwriters.com with proposed date(s) and amount(s) and we'll see what we can do!


Cancellation Policy

You may cancel for a full refund until 01/31/2025. Cancellations requested after this date will be contingent on finding a replacement to take your spot.

Roadmap reserves the right to cancel this retreat and refund your registration fee in full up to 14 days prior to the start of the retreat. 

You are responsible for booking your own flight in a timely manner. The inability to find an appropriate flight due to procrastination will not be grounds for a refund. We recommend you strongly consider buying trip and travel health insurance. Similarly, testing positive for COVID will not be grounds for a refund. You should plan to be extra careful about your activities in the two weeks prior to the retreat to reduce your chances of testing positive.


 

The Roadmap Promise

Roadmap Writers prides itself on the quality of executives we bring to our programs and we work hard to get you the best feedback possible.

Our vetted executives are chosen by the legitimacy of the companies they work for and their ability to evaluate pitches and pages.

Only the executives you sign up for will be provided with your materials.