What did you think of this episode?

Are you seeking publication or eager to use your words in more personal ways, such as letter writing, journaling, or sharing life experiences? Today’s guest will rock your world with clarity, and your writing will soar– stick around. Your Best Writing Life begins right now.

Welcome to Your Best Writing Life, an extension of the Blue Ridge Mountains Christian Writers Conference held in the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains of NC. I’m your host, Linda Goldfarb. Each week, I bring tips and strategies from writing and publishing industry experts to help you excel in your craft. I’m so glad you’re listening in. During this episode, you’ll learn what kind of writer you are.

My industry expert, Lori Hatcher, is the award-winning writer of seven Our Daily Bread devotionals, including her latest, Lord, I Believe, 60 Devotions for Your Troubled Heart. She writes high-impact stories for spiritual transformation and loves training writers to share their God-given messages. She writes from her Happy Place in Lexington, South Carolina.

Professional or Personal?

Personal:

o Wants to learn to write well for family/legacy/community/writing purposes

o Desires to improve your writing ability in order to support work or career

o Likes sharing thoughts, insights, and experiences through personal letters and/or blogging

o Enjoys studying the craft of writing and learning to write well, but not seeking a career

o No traditional publishing goals

o A hobbyist

Professional:

o Seeking to write for more than personal reasons: traditional or self-publishing, whether for ministry, income, or professional advancement

o Desire to earn a full-time or part-time income through writing

o Willing to treat writing as a job, not a hobby

Book Author:

o Teachable—willing to accept and apply advice from seasoned writers and industry professionals

o Widely read in this genre.

Christian Living books:

o Has a body of knowledge, experience, or interest to draw from for topics

o Enjoys teaching and sharing information

Magazine and Online Article/ Blog Writer:

o Reads Christian Living articles

o Enjoys writing short form

Devotion Writer:

o Enjoys reading devotionals

o Prefers short form (sometimes very short form) writing

Bible Study Writer:

o Reads, attends, and teaches Bible studies

o Loves to teach and is teachable

Fiction Writer:

o Creative—must be able to generate ideas and combine existing things in new ways

o Find yourself in your own world and imaging other’s lives

LINKS

Lori Hatcher

David Sluka - 16 Ways to Create Devotional Writing

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#1 Podcast in the "Top 50+ Must-Have Tools and Resources for Christian Writers in 2024".

Awarded the Spark Media 2022 Most Binge-Worthy Podcast
Awarded the Spark Media 2023 Fan Favorites Best Solo Podcast

What did you think of this episode?

Are you ready to Turn Your Dream Into a Finished Manuscript?

Today’s guest is sharing measurable writing goals to accomplish your dream.

Welcome to Your Best Writing Life, an extension of the Blue Ridge Mountains Christian Writers Conference held in the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains of NC. I’m your host, Linda Goldfarb. Each week, I bring tips and strategies from writing and publishing industry experts to help you excel in your craft. I’m so glad you’re listening in. During this episode, you’ll learn about … Using Measurable Writing Goals to Turn Your Dream Into a Finished Manuscript.

My industry expert, Ginny Cruz, MPA, PT, is a pediatric physical therapist, an award-winning author, and a mom. She contributes to The Write Conversation blog and Focus on the Family. Her book, The New Mom’s Guide: Help and Hope for Baby’s First Year, is an essential addition to every new mother's library. She enjoys hiking and morning coffee.

Using Measurable Writing Goals to Turn Your Dream Into a Finished Manuscript.

1. What is the difference between a dream and a measurable goal?

2. You have five tips for setting reasonable and measurable writing goals?

· Tip 1: Write down your writing goal w/ an estimated completion date

· Tip 2: Determine your word count based on your genre

· Tip 3: Write a daily word count goal – use sticky notes as a reminder

· Tip 4: Track Your Progress – spreadsheet - date, chapter title, wordcount

· Tip 5: Have an Accountability Partner – preferably someone who understands the writing process.

LINKS

Ginny Cruz Website: ginn_ycruz.com

Socials: https://www.facebook.com/ginny.cruz.2025,

https: / /www.instagram.com/ ginnycruzauthor, x.com/ GinnyCruz, https://www.tiktok.com/@ginny.cruz27

Book link: https://amzn.to/3KDruLT

Freebie Download Title: Write Your Goals and Finish Your Manuscript

https://bit.ly/4aYicFo

Tummy Time Prayers Facebook group:

https://www.facebook.com/groups/588849797651494

Visit Your Best Writing Life website.
Join our Facebook group, Your Best Writing Life
Your host - Linda Goldfarb
#1 Podcast in the "Top 50+ Must-Have Tools and Resources for Christian Writers in 2024".

Awarded the Spark Media 2022 Most Binge-Worthy Podcast
Awarded the Spark Media 2023 Fan Favorites Best Solo Podcast

What did you think of this episode?

Who are you in Christ? Who is Christ in you? And why did He call you in the first place? Today’s guest shares why this continuing class at the BRMWC always has a waiting list - stick around.

Welcome to Your Best Writing Life, an extension of the Blue Ridge Mountains Christian Writers Conference held in the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains of NC. I’m your host, Linda Goldfarb. Each week, I bring tips and strategies from writing and publishing industry experts to help you excel in your craft. I’m so glad you’re listening in. During this episode, you’ll learn about … Writing to Learn Who You Are in Christ, Who Christ is in You, and Why He Called You in the First Place …

My industry expert, Eva Marie Everson, is the multi-award-winning author of nearly 50 fiction, nonfiction, and children’s titles. She is the CEO of Word Weavers International, the director of Florida Christian Writers Conference, the Director of the BRMCWC Selah and Foundation awards, and a popular speaker. She and her husband—when they are not enjoying their children and grandchildren—are owned by a cat named Vanessa.

This class is a 4-day CCPracticum. Tell us what that means.

How did this continuing class come about?

What should participants expect to learn during the class?

One must pre-register for this class. Why and how?

As we wrap up, words of encouragement to first-time attendees?

Eva Marie Everson

• Class Title: Writing to Learn Who You Are in Christ, Who Christ is in You, And Why He Called You in the First Place

Class Type: Continuing Class Practicum - Pre-Registration is required. See class requirements below

Class Description: ACT I/II/III 4-day CCP
Writing to Learn Who You Are in Christ, Who Christ is in You, And Why He Called You in the First Place

Class Requirements:

This class is limited to the first 10 participants. You must sign up in advance, and can do so by emailing Eva at PenNhnd@aol.com.

Visit Your Best Writing Life website.
Join our Facebook group, Your Best Writing Life
Your host - Linda Goldfarb
#1 Podcast in the "Top 50+ Must-Have Tools and Resources for Christian Writers in 2024".

Awarded the Spark Media 2022 Most Binge-Worthy Podcast
Awarded the Spark Media 2023 Fan Favorites Best Solo Podcast

What did you think of this episode?

Are you experiencing God’s provision in every stage of your writing process? Today’s guest shares the natural process of birthing a book and how God is present all along the way

Welcome to Your Best Writing Life, an extension of the Blue Ridge Mountains Christian Writers Conference held in the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains of NC. I’m your host, Linda Goldfarb. Each week, I bring tips and strategies from writing and publishing industry experts to help you excel in your craft. I’m so glad you’re listening in. During this episode, you’ll learn about the birthing process of a book.

My industry expert is Annette Marie Griffin. Annette is an award-winning author and speaker who writes timeless pieces to help readers find home. She’s a columnist and acquisitions editor for StarLight Magazine and has written hundreds of articles for kids and adults throughout her writing career. Her newest book, Fearfully and Wonderfully Made, will be released soon through Christian Art Gifts.

Alright, let’s head into our content for today… the Process of Birthing a Book.

• *How abiding in Christ is the consummation of our gifts and talents (John 15:4-5)
• *The similarities between each stage of birthing a baby and birthing a book
• *The special provision God gives us through every stage and challenge of writing for Him.
• *Our book babies are His special creation--predestined to accomplish His will for His purposes. The hard part can be releasing our "babies" to Him and letting Him have His way with them.

Annette Griffin

Author Care Tips for Nurturing Body, Mind, and Spirit Download

Visit Your Best Writing Life website.
Join our Facebook group, Your Best Writing Life
Your host - Linda Goldfarb
#1 Podcast in the "Top 50+ Must-Have Tools and Resources for Christian Writers in 2024".

Awarded the Spark Media 2022 Most Binge-Worthy Podcast
Awarded the Spark Media 2023 Fan Favorites Best Solo Podcast

What did you think of this episode?

Everyone needs encouragement—especially writers. Today’s guest shares a story to help you make it through the week with hope.

Welcome to Your Best Writing Life, an extension of the Blue Ridge Mountains Christian Writers Conference held in the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains of NC. I’m your host, Linda Goldfarb. Each week, I bring tips and strategies from writing and publishing industry experts to help you excel in your craft. I’m so glad you’re listening in. During this episode, you’ll receive encouragement for your writing journey.

Today’s guest is Debbie Sorensen. Raised on a small Montana ranch with a storyteller father, she attended a one-room country grade school. She is a former teacher, mother, grandmother, and now a widow. Debbie loves crafting with words and has written newspaper columns and magazine articles, appeared on podcasts, and published one book, with a new audiobook just released.

Alright, let’s head into our content for today… encouragement for your writing journey

1.) No matter where you begin, you can finish well.

2.) We can continue to impact people of all ages, using words and actions.

LINKS

Debbie Sorensen

Visit Your Best Writing Life website.
Join our Facebook group, Your Best Writing Life
Your host - Linda Goldfarb
#1 Podcast in the "Top 50+ Must-Have Tools and Resources for Christian Writers in 2024".

Awarded the Spark Media 2022 Most Binge-Worthy Podcast
Awarded the Spark Media 2023 Fan Favorites Best Solo Podcast

What did you think of this episode?

Are your stories falling flat? Maybe you could benefit from leveraging a bit of tension in your writing. Connie Mann offers tips to keep the pages turning and the late-night candles burning.

Welcome to Your Best Writing Life, an extension of the Blue Ridge Mountains Christian Writers Conference held in the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains of NC. I’m your host, Linda Goldfarb. Each week, I bring tips and strategies from writing and publishing industry experts to help you excel in your craft. I’m so glad you’re listening in. During this episode, you’ll learn how to Make Your Novel Unputdownable.

My industry expert Connie Mann loves taking readers on heart-pounding, suspense-filled adventures featuring strong, determined women. She is the author of The Crown Conspiracy, The Florida Wildlife Warriors, and the Safe Harbor series. She is also a USCG-licensed boat captain, which is as much fun as it sounds. Visit her online at: www.conniemann.com.

Alright, let’s head into our content for today… How to Make Your Novel Unputdownable

1-How to leverage tension to pull readers deeper and deeper into your story

2-What to do when scenes - or even whole sections - fall flat

Contact Connie Mann - Ask for her How to Make Your Novel Nonputdownable List

Visit Your Best Writing Life website.
Join our Facebook group, Your Best Writing Life
Your host - Linda Goldfarb
#1 Podcast in the "Top 50+ Must-Have Tools and Resources for Christian Writers in 2024".

Awarded the Spark Media 2022 Most Binge-Worthy Podcast
Awarded the Spark Media 2023 Fan Favorites Best Solo Podcast

What did you think of this episode?

Video isn't the go-to for many writers and speakers. Yet, today’s guest provides five key reasons to jump on the professional video bandwagon.

Welcome to Your Best Writing Life, an extension of the Blue Ridge Mountains Christian Writers Conference held in the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains of NC. I’m your host, Linda Goldfarb. Each week, I share tips and strategies from industry experts to help you excel in your craft and expand your reach. I’m so glad you’re listening in. In this episode, you’ll learn 5 Reasons an Author Needs Professional Video

My industry expert, Andrew Hamlet, is a filmmaker, writer, and creative director at Hamlet Productions LLC. He crafts cinematic stories across film, music, and live events, blending faith, technology, and emotion. Known for ambitious world-building and meticulous production, he partners with brands, ministries, and artists to tell meaningful, high-impact stories for worldwide audiences with boldness.

5 Reasons an Author Needs Professional Video

1. Video Builds Instant Trust and Connection

Professional video allows readers to see your face, hear your voice, and connect with your message before they ever open your book. This builds credibility and deepens audience engagement.

2. Video Drives Social Engagement

Social platforms prioritize video content. A polished video grabs attention quickly, increases engagement, and helps your message cut through the noise.

3. Video Helps You Sell Without 'Selling'

Cinematic trailers, storytelling clips, and short author messages communicate emotion and purpose in seconds—creating interest and boosting book sales naturally.

4. Video Increases Speaking and Media Opportunities

Event planners, podcasts, and conferences want to see how you communicate. A professional video reel increases your chances of being booked and paid for appearances.

5. Video Turns Your Book Into a Brand

Video expands your message into courses, workshops, digital products, communities, and more—transforming your book into the foundation of a broader brand.

Use your videos for Courses, Workbooks, Devotionals, speaking topics, Online communities, Digital products, and Ongoing content series.

LINKS

Andrew Hamlet

Andrew Hamlet on LinkedIn

Visit Your Best Writing Life website.
Join our Facebook group, Your Best Writing Life
Your host - Linda Goldfarb
#1 Podcast in the "Top 50+ Must-Have Tools and Resources for Christian Writers in 2024".

Awarded the Spark Media 2022 Most Binge-Worthy Podcast
Awarded the Spark Media 2023 Fan Favorites Best Solo Podcast

What did you think of this episode?

Are you ready to claim your first paycheck as a writer? Today’s guest has the tips you need to hear.

Welcome to Your Best Writing Life, an extension of the Blue Ridge Mountains Christian Writers Conference held in the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains of NC. I’m your host, Linda Goldfarb. Each week, I bring tips and strategies from writing and publishing industry experts to help you excel in your craft. I’m so glad you’re listening in. During this episode, you’ll learn how to move your passion for writing into a profession.

My industry expert is Amanda Elaine West, a freelance writer who publishes an average of 6 to 20 articles per month. What began as a part-time writing niche for a local magazine quickly grew into a full-time career. She has now published over 200 articles in the past four years and is the lead writer for Good News Shelbyville magazine. As a busy mom of five who also homeschools and a wife to a pastor on call 24 hours a day, she's actively learning how to make it all work. She serves as president of Word Weavers South Middle Tennessee and, until recently, was also president of Page 51.

How to move your passion for writing into a profession.

How to find freelance writing opportunities. Hint: opportunities are all around us, but you must first invest in yourself before others will.

How to craft a compelling story following a lackluster interview. Where do I start? How can I make nonfiction pop off the page?

Find out more about Amanda Elaine West

www.awestwrites.com

Email Amanda at awestwrites@outlook.com for your copy of “From Passion to Profession: How to Kickstart Your Freelance Writing Career.”

Visit Your Best Writing Life website.
Join our Facebook group, Your Best Writing Life
Your host - Linda Goldfarb
#1 Podcast in the "Top 50+ Must-Have Tools and Resources for Christian Writers in 2024".

Awarded the Spark Media 2022 Most Binge-Worthy Podcast
Awarded the Spark Media 2023 Fan Favorites Best Solo Podcast