blue ridge mountains christian writers conference

Today, we share ten tips to streamline your writing life. Some you may already do, and some you may not have considered. Just take a look at the list with an open mind and see if there’s anything on it that can make your life easier. 

 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. 

Today's industry expert is…Edie Melson. Edie Melson is a woman of faith with ink-stained fingers observing life through the lens of her camera. As a popular speaker, Edie encourages and challenges audiences on the necessity of Soul Care and leads workshops throughout the world on staying connected to God. Her numerous books, including the award-winning Soul Care series and Unruffled, Thriving in Chaos (co-authored with Rhonda Rhea) reflect her passion to help others develop the strength of their God-given gifts and apply them to their lives. Since 2017, Edie’s industry blog, The Write Conversation, has been recognized as a Writer’s Digest Top 101 Sites for Writers. She’s the director of the Blue Ridge Mountains Christian Writers Conference and a board member of the Advanced Writers and Speakers Association. She and her husband Kirk have been married for 40+ years and raised three sons. They live in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains and can often be found hiking—with Edie clinging to the edge of a precipice for the perfect camera angle and Kirk patiently carrying her camera bag and tripod. Please welcome Edie Melson to Your Best Writing Life. 

Simplify Your Writing Life 

1. Take a look at your goals. 

2. Evaluate how much time you’re spending on social media. 

3. Let go of your expectations. 

4. Determine when you are most creative in a 24-hour period. 

5. Come up with a way to schedule your time. 

6. Commit to quit talking negatively to and about yourself. 

7. Take care of yourself physically. 

8. Build in regular breaks. 

9. Surround yourself with encouraging writers. 

10. Engage a prayer team.

LINKS
https://ediemelson.com/ 

https://ediemelson.com/books/ 

Tips to Make Writing a Priority 

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Join our Facebook group, Your Best Writing Life
About your host - Linda Goldfarb
Awarded the Spark Media 2022 Most Bing-Worthy Podcast
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Welcome to Your Best Writing Life, an extension of the Blue Ridge Mountains Christian Writers Conference held in the beautiful Blue Ridge Mts 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.

Our guest, PeggySue Wells, is the bestselling author of 36 books and collaborator for many more. Action and adventure, romantic suspense, military romance, and cozy mystery pact the pages of the novels penned by P.S. Wells, including Chasing Sunrise. How to live better, easier, and simpler is the focus of her nonfiction, including The Ten Best Decisions A Single Mom Can Make.

During this episode, you’ll learn how to shape sensational settings.

What is the setting?

What are the characteristics and personality of the setting?

Passive - Active - Behaves as a character.

The setting is the story.

How does a writer utilize the setting to enhance their story?

LINKS

 PeggySue Wells FB Author Page:

PeggySue Wells FB Personal Page

PeggySue Wells Linked In

PeggySue Wells

Single Mom Circle

Writing Sensational Settings Quick Guide free copy

All of PeggySue's Writing Quick Guides

Visit Your Best Writing Life website.
Join our Facebook group, Your Best Writing Life
About your host - Linda Goldfarb
Awarded the Spark Media 2022 Most Bing-Worthy Podcast
Awarded the Spark Media 2023 Fan Favorites Best Solo Podcast

Welcome to Your Best Writing Life, an extension of the Blue Ridge Mountains Christian Writers Conference held in the beautiful Blue Ridge Mts 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 15 Reasons to Fall in Love with Writing

My industry expert is…Edie Melson. Edie Melson is a woman of faith with ink-stained fingers observing life through the lens of her camera. As a popular speaker, Edie encourages and challenges audiences on the necessity of Soul Care and leads workshops throughout the world on staying connected to God.

Her numerous books, including the award-winning Soul Care series and Unruffled, Thriving in Chaos (co-authored with Rhonda Rhea) reflect her passion to help others develop the strength of their God-given gifts and apply them to their lives. Since 2017, Edie’s industry blog, The Write Conversation, has been recognized as a Writer’s Digest Top 101 Sites for Writers. She’s the director of the Blue Ridge Mountains Christian Writers Conference and a board member of the Advanced Writers and Speakers Association. 

Edie and her husband Kirk have been married for 40+ years and raised three sons. They live in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains and can often be found hiking—with Edie clinging to the edge of a precipice for the perfect camera angle and Kirk patiently carrying her camera bag and tripod. Please welcome Edie Melson to Your Best Writing Life. It’s great to have you here, my friend.

LINKS

Edie Melson

Blue Ridge Mountains Christian Writers Conference

15 Reasons to Fall in Love with Writing PDF 

Visit Your Best Writing Life website.
Join our Facebook group, Your Best Writing Life
About your host - Linda Goldfarb
Awarded the Spark Media 2022 Most Bing-Worthy Podcast
Awarded the Spark Media 2023 Fan Favorites Best Solo Podcast

Today's industry expert is Debra Butterfield. Debra is the author of ten books, which include Claiming Her Inheritance, Discovering Her Inheritance, Unshakable Faith, and Carried by Grace: a Guide for Mothers of Victims of Sexual Abuse. She is a freelance editor and editorial director for CrossRiver Media Group and a former copywriter for Focus on the Family.

Five Questions to Ask an Editor Before Signing a Contract

1. How does your faith influence your editing?
2. What genre do you specialize in?
3. What are your editing fees?
4. When can I expect a finished product?
5. How often will we communicate once I’m your client?

LINKS

 Editorial Freelancers Association

The Christian Pen

Free self-editing checklist for fiction or nonfiction via Debra's https://themotivationaleditor.com

Self-editing & Publishing Tips for the Indie Author

Website (for writers): https://www.themotivationaleditor.com/ 

Website (for readers): https://debralbutterfield.com/ 

Facebook (profile): https://www.facebook.com/debra.l.butterfield 

Facebook (page): https://www.facebook.com/DebraLButterfieldAuthor 

Visit Your Best Writing Life website.
Join our Facebook group, Your Best Writing Life
About your host - Linda Goldfarb
Awarded the Spark Media 2022 Most Bing-Worthy Podcast
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Did you know that companion products can boost your book sales? Carol Tetzlaff shares tips you can’t afford to miss.

Welcome to Your Best Writing Life, an extension of the Blue Ridge Mountains Christian Writers Conference held in the beautiful Blue Ridge Mts 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 Companion Products Every Writer Needs

My industry expert is…Carol Tetzlaff. Author, speaker, and co-owner of Redemption Press. Carol’s passion is discipleship of all ages. Living her best life in Arizona with Kelley and eleven fun and super cute grands. She loves super-sweet, iced coffee, spending time with friends, and the color yellow. Author of the 2022 Selah Award Bible Study winner, Ezra: Unleashing the Power of Praise. Please welcome Carol Tetzlaff to Your Best Writing Life!

1. What is a companion product and what purpose does it serve?

• Enhance message of your book

• Greatest example - the Bible - 

2. How does an author come up with content for a companion product?

• When writing - you have content you don’t use

• You base it on a theme or truth

• You allow the reader to take a deeper dive.

3. How do you envision the companion product enhancing the reader's experience with a book?

1. Brings greater application, knowledge, transformation

4. What are some examples of companion products that you can created for a book?

• Another book…

• Every genre can have a companion product - 

• Memoir - devotional, Novel – theme Bible Study - Devo, Teen study, children’s book, journals

• Downloadable resources /book club 

• Video resources

• Social media

• Even out of the box fun items like t-shirts, jewelry, stickers, mugs

5. How do you decide which type of companion product would be most effective in promoting your book?

• Personality, abilities and skills, where is your audience - BOOK - 

• Email list - downloads, building your SM presence. 

• Do you speak and need to fill your table. 

6. How does launching a companion product benefit the sales of the original book?

• It helps bring a reader to it - it gives you a relaunch - allowing the reader to see the subject matter is still relevant.

7. What advice would you give to authors who are considering creating companion products for their books?

• Pray! Ask our Father… what message do I still need to share with the world - 

• If you still believe that your message - your story matters - Than you need to promote it and get it into the hands of the reader who can be blessed, encouraged and even transformed.

LINKS

Carol Tetzlaff’s Ezra Bible Study

Companion Product and Relaunch PDF

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Join our Facebook group, Your Best Writing Life
About your host - Linda Goldfarb
Awarded the Spark Media 2022 Most Bing-Worthy Podcast
Awarded the Spark Media 2023 Fan Favorites Best Solo Podcast

Are you interested in ghostwriting? Linda Goldfarb and her guest, Twila Belk, will share more information than you thought possible about it.

Also known as The Gotta Tell Somebody Gal, Twila Belk is an author, speaker, editor, and champion for writers. Since 2007, she has worked closely with veteran author Cecil Murphey as his personal assistant and associate, which has provided her with a wide range of industry knowledge and writing experience.

We cover a lot in today's encore episode.

What is ghostwriting, and who uses ghostwriters?

•  What makes a good ghostwriter?
•   What are some of the advantages and disadvantages of ghostwriting?
•   How do you break in?
•   Tell us a bit about the process 

LINKS
Twila Belk
Ghostwriting: The Murphey Method
Ghostwriting Resource PDF

If you enjoy Your Best Writing Life's content- consider a monthly donation through Patreon. Support Your Best Writing Life podcast

About your host - Linda Goldfarb
Besides hosting Your Best Writing Life, Linda Goldfarb is a multi-published award-winning author, audiobook narrator, international speaker, board-certified Christian life coach, co-owner, co-founder of the LINKED® Personality System, and co-author of the LINKED® Quick Guide to Personality series. Linda also hosts the Staying REAL About Faith & Family podcast - Check it out!

Visit Your Best Writing Life website.
Join our Facebook group, Your Best Writing Life
About your host - Linda Goldfarb
Awarded the Spark Media 2022 Most Bing-Worthy Podcast
Awarded the Spark Media 2023 Fan Favorites Best Solo Podcast

While the New Year holds much promise and excitement, there will also be difficult times. Today’s guest helps us prepare for these challenges by developing healthy writing practices.

Welcome to Your Best Writing Life, an extension of the Blue Ridge Mountains Christian Writers Conference held in the beautiful Blue Ridge Mts 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 23 Best Writing Practices.  

Welcome Edie Melson.
Edie is a woman of faith with ink-stained fingers observing life through the lens of her camera. As a popular speaker, she encourages and challenges audiences to understand the necessity of Soul Care and leads workshops throughout the world on staying connected to God.
Her numerous books, including the award-winning Soul Care series and Unruffled, Thriving in Chaos (co-authored with Rhonda Rhea), reflect her passion for helping others develop the strength of their God-given gifts and apply them to their lives. Since 2017, Edie’s industry blog, The Write Conversation, has been recognized as a Writer’s Digest Top 101 Sites for Writers.
She’s the director of the Blue Ridge Mountains Christian Writers Conference and a board member of the Advanced Writers and Speakers Association. She and her husband Kirk have been married for 40+ years and raised three sons. They live in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains and can often be found hiking—with Edie clinging to the edge of a precipice for the perfect camera angle and Kirk patiently carrying her camera bag and tripod. Please welcome Edie Melson to Your Best Writing Life. It’s great to have you here, my friend.

Download the episode 23 Things below.

Edie Melson
The Write Conversation Blog for Writers
Listener giveaway PDF Link for 23 Things to Do for Your Writing Self 
Blue Ridge Mountains Christian Writers Conference Scholarship Info
Best Writing Life Life January Tip Sheet for Writers

Visit Your Best Writing Life website.
Join our Facebook group, Your Best Writing Life
About your host - Linda Goldfarb
Awarded the Spark Media 2022 Most Bing-Worthy Podcast
Awarded the Spark Media 2023 Fan Favorites Best Solo Podcast

Do you utilize the Writing Cube concept in Novel writing? Get ready to learn a few aspects of story you may not be familiar with.

Join our host, Linda Goldfarb, and her industry expert, the critically acclaimed, best-selling author Steven James. Steven has served as a contributing editor to Writer’s Digest Magazine and is the author of the groundbreaking nonfiction books Story Trumps Structure and Troubleshooting Your Novel. When he’s not working on his next book, Steven teaches Novel Writing Intensive retreats across the country with New York Times bestselling author Robert Dugoni.

In this encore episode, Linda and Steven discuss the writing cube, pivot, and payoff. Steven provides a clear insight into the aspects of believability, escalation, causality, twists, and surprises along the way.

LINKS
Steven James
Preview downloads for The Art of the Tale - free
Steven James Books
The Art of the Tale book

Best Writing Life Life January Tip Sheet for Writers

Visit Your Best Writing Life website.
Join our Facebook group, Your Best Writing Life
About your host - Linda Goldfarb
Awarded the Spark Media 2022 Most Bing-Worthy Podcast
Awarded the Spark Media 2023 Fan Favorites Best Solo Podcast

Are you prepared to make the most of your interview?  

Today’s episode provides strategies to make the most of every interview in ways that may surprise you– stick around!

Welcome to Your Best Writing Life, an extension of the Blue Ridge Mountains Christian Writers Conference held in the beautiful Blue Ridge Mts of NC. I’m your host, Edie Melson, Director of the Blue Ridge Mountains Christian Writers Conference. I’m sitting in for Linda Goldfarb today, and I’m very happy to be here with you. Each week, we bring you tips and strategies from experts in the writing and publishing industry to help you excel in your craft. We’re so glad you’re listening in. During this encore episode, you’ll learn about Five Interview Tips to Help Writers Succeed.

Today’s industry expert is our very own Your Best Writing Life host, Linda Goldfarb. Linda is the award-winning co-author of the LINKED® Quick Guide to Personalities series, an international speaker, professional actress, and an audiobook narrator. She is a traditionally and independently published author who holds a board-certified advanced diploma in Christian life coaching.

Linda enjoys drinking frothed coffee with friends, hiking and playing golf with her hubby, and relaxing with family and friends as often as possible. She and Sam have four adult children and many, many grandbabies. They live in the Texas hill country with two country dogs.

Today's five strategies include the following:

1 - Preparation
2 - Engagement
3 -Takeaways
4 - Promotion
5 - Thankfulness

[bctt tweet="“As a guest, it’s good to be prepared for your host’s interview style and not surprised by it.” Linda Goldfarb" #writersrock #podcastsrock " username="@BRMCWC @LindaGoldfarb @EdieMelson"]

LINKS
Linda Goldfarb
Linda's 5 Gifts to Offer Your Interview Host PDF with Bonus Gift #6

Best Writing Life Life January Tip Sheet for Writers

If you enjoy Your Best Writing Life's content- consider a monthly donation through Patreon. Support Your Best Writing Life podcast

About your host - Linda Goldfarb
Besides hosting Your Best Writing Life, Linda Goldfarb is a multi-published award-winning author, audiobook narrator, international speaker, board-certified Christian life coach, co-owner, co-founder of the LINKED® Personality System, and co-author of the LINKED® Quick Guide to Personality series. Linda also hosts the Staying

Visit Your Best Writing Life website.
Join our Facebook group, Your Best Writing Life
About your host - Linda Goldfarb
Awarded the Spark Media 2022 Most Bing-Worthy Podcast
Awarded the Spark Media 2023 Fan Favorites Best Solo Podcast

Do you struggle to organize your writing? Are you searching for practical tips to help with your writing workspace, time, and materials?

Each week, Linda Goldfarb brings tips and strategies from writing and publishing industry experts to help you excel in your craft. We're so glad you’re listening to this encore episode, Organized Writing Equals Higher Productivity, with her guest, Liana George.

Before becoming a novelist, Liana George was a professional organizer and the owner of By George Organizing. Her first two novels are based on her experiences as an organizer and her time living in China. She is also the Co-founder of The Author’s Write Hand, a marketing/virtual assistance agency for Christian authors.

 Linda and Liana discuss organizing your space, time, material, and mind to be more productive as a writer.

LINKS
Liana George
Writer Info Spreadsheet download

Book Info Template Download 
How to Organize Your Writing Space

Best Writing Life Life January Tip Sheet for Writers
If you enjoy Your Best Writing Life's content- consider a monthly donation through Patreon. Support Your Best Writing Life podcast

About your host - Linda Goldfarb
Besides hosting Your Best Writing Life, Linda Goldfarb is a multi-published award-winning author, audiobook narrator, international speaker, board-certified Christian life coach, co-owner, co-founder of the LINKED® Personality System, and co-author of the LINKED® Quick Guide to Personality series. Linda also hosts the Staying REAL About Faith & Family podcast - Check it out!

Visit Your Best Writing Life website.
Join our Facebook group, Your Best Writing Life
About your host - Linda Goldfarb
Awarded the Spark Media 2022 Most Bing-Worthy Podcast
Awarded the Spark Media 2023 Fan Favorites Best Solo Podcast

Regarding devotionals, are you asking, “Where’s the beef?” Would you like to go deeper when writing devotionals yet dread the time trap for your readers? 

Today’s encore episode offers a way for you to write deeper while offering a shorter study time to your reader. 

Linda Goldfarb's industry expert is Kathy Howard. Kathy is a treasure hunter. She hunts for the creamiest chocolate and richest coffee. She searches for cherished stories of faith that still impact hearts. And, she digs deep into God’s Word, mining His eternal truths for herself and to share with others. With more than 30 years of experience, Kathy has taught in dozens of states, internationally, and in various venues, including multi-church conferences and large online events. 

She has a Masters of Christian Education and a certificate in Women’s Ministry from the Canadian Baptist Theological Seminary. Kathy is the author of 12 books, including five Bible studies and the “Deep Rooted” devotional series. She also serves on the LifeWay Women’s Ministry Training Team. Kathy and her husband live near family in the Dallas/Ft Worth area. They have three married children, six grandchildren, and one accidental dog. Kathy provides free discipleship resources and blogs regularly at www.KathyHoward.org.

Discover what a hybrid devotional study is and how you can begin writing meaty devotionals without breaking the time bank.

LINKS
Kathy Howard
How to Write a Deep Devotional PDF
Kathy Howard's Books
Best Writing Life Life January Tip Sheet for Writers

If you enjoy Your Best Writing Life's content- consider a monthly donation through Patreon. Support Your Best Writing Life podcast

About your host - Linda Goldfarb
Besides hosting Your Best Writing Life, Linda Goldfarb is a multi-published award-winning author, audiobook narrator, international speaker, board-certified Christian life coach, co-owner, co-founder of the LINKED® Personality System, and co-author of the LINKED® Quick Guide to Personality series. Linda also hosts the Staying REAL About Faith & Family podcast - Check it out!

Visit Your Best Writing Life website.
Join our Facebook group, Your Best Writing Life
About your host - Linda Goldfarb
Awarded the Spark Media 2022 Most Bing-Worthy Podcast
Awarded the Spark Media 2023 Fan Favorites Best Solo Podcast

During this encore episode, Linda Goldfarb and Thomas Umstattd Jr. get to the business of building your author platform.

Does author platform building confuse you? You're not alone.

Author platforms! What a platform is. And how to build your platform. Linda Goldfarb's guest, Thomas Umstattd Jr., is here to answer platform-building questions.  Thomas is the founder of Author Media and the host of the Novel Marketing Podcast. He travels the world speaking at events to help authors build their platforms, sell more books, and change the world with writing worth talking about. Thomas, welcome to your best writing life!

During this encore episode, Linda and Thomas get to the business of building your platform.

• Top two ways to weaponize your platform.
• Always include this element in your blog.
• One preventable mistake writers make.
• The skills you need to write good articles.

LINKS

• Author Email Onboarding Sequence Guide
• Author Media

Best Writing Life Life January Tip Sheet for Writers

Visit Your Best Writing Life website.
Join our Facebook group, Your Best Writing Life
About your host - Linda Goldfarb
Awarded the Spark Media 2022 Most Bing-Worthy Podcast
Awarded the Spark Media 2023 Fan Favorites Best Solo Podcast

 Christians should be writing Speculative Fiction! Science Fiction and Fantasy writing is a great genre for faith-based writers.
 
Linda Goldfarb here. I’m so glad you’re listening to this encore episode with award-winning author Amy A.C. Willims.  Amy is a coffee-drinking, sushi-eating, story-telling nerd who loves cats, country living, and all things Japanese. She’d rather be barefoot, and if she isn’t, her socks will never match. With books in space opera, superhero adventure, and action-comedy, Amy loves helping authors discover the genre-defying joy of speaking truth in fiction.
 
Our time together is a little longer than usual, but you will be so happy you stuck around as we talk about Writing Faith-based Speculative Fiction

• What are the genre expectations for speculative fiction?
• What is “world-building”?
• Can you write science fiction without aliens?
• Can you write fantasy without being a linguist?
• Why should Christians write speculative fiction?

LINKS

• Amy (A.C.) Williams
• Amy's Speculative Fiction Recommended Reading PDF Download
• For more recommendations and reviews, check out www.amycwilliams.com.
• To find out about Amy’s coaching - https://www.amycwilliams.com/coaching/ 
• Email amy@amycwilliams.com 
• Havok Story Podcast 

Visit Your Best Writing Life website.
Join our Facebook group, Your Best Writing Life
About your host - Linda Goldfarb
Awarded the Spark Media 2022 Most Bing-Worthy Podcast
Awarded the Spark Media 2023 Fan Favorites Best Solo Podcast

Did you know the shoes we wear play a huge part in getting more speaking gigs? Award-winning authors Erica Wiggenhorn and Linda Goldfarb explore in detail five ways to get invited back as a speaker.

Linda's guest, Erica, is an award-winning author and international speaker. She has published five books with Moody Publishers and 3 On Demand Video Teaching Series. She writes for P31 Ministries on their First 5 app. She lives in Phoenix, AZ, with her BFF Jonathan and their four children. Only two are of the human variety, and the others are furry and adorable.     
At first glance, these secrets seem fairly obvious. It's what Erica shares in this encore episode that takes each secret deeper.
Secret 1 - Put yourself in the event planner's shoes - these are the right shoes!
Secret 2 - Know your audience   
Secret 3 - Don't make your talk a guessing game
Secret 4 - Make prayer a priority
Secret 5 - Be teachable and grateful

LINKS
Erica Wiggenhorn
An Unexpected Revival    
Free - The Busy Woman's Bundle to Connecting with God           

If you enjoy Your Best Writing Life's content- consider a monthly donation through Patreon. Support Your Best Writing Life podcast 

Visit our website, Your Best Writing Life website
Join fellow writers in our Facebook group, Your Best Writing Life

I'd love to hear your thoughts about this episode --Linda
About your host - Linda Goldfarb
Besides hosting Your Best Writing Life, Linda Goldfarb is a multi-published award-winning author, audiobook narrator, international speaker, board-certified Christian life coach, co-owner, co-founder of the LINKED® Personality System, and co-author of the LINKED® Quick Guide to Personality series.

Linda also hosts her brand new Staying REAL About Faith & Family podcast - Check it out!

Linda and her hubby, Sam, are empty nesters leading full lives. With four adult children and 15 grandbabies– life is a new adventure every day. She loves sipping frothed coffee with friends, traveling the countryside with Sam, and sharing transparent truth to help others take their next best step-- personally and professionally.   Visit the website of our host, Linda Goldfarb

Visit Your Best Writing Life website.
Join our Facebook group, Your Best Writing Life
About your host - Linda Goldfarb
Awarded the Spark Media 2022 Most Bing-Worthy Podcast
Awarded the Spark Media 2023 Fan Favorites Best Solo Podcast

Are your devotions written effectively?

Writing devotions with excellence is what Cindy Sproles helps us understand better in this encore episode of Your Best Writing Life.

Cindy Sproles is the cofounder of Christian Devotions Ministries and the cowriter of the popular He Said, She Said Devotions written with her cofounder, Eddie Jones. As a teacher and speaker for Christian Writers Conferences, Cindy teaches writing skills and how to write, placing God in the forefront.  She is a contributing author to CBN.com and is the Executive Editor for www.christiandevotions.us, and a freelance editor for Ironstream Media. Cindy is the director of the Asheville Christian Writers Conference, held each February at the Cove, the Billy Graham Training Center, Asheville, NC.  She is the mother of four adult sons and lives in the mountains of East Tennessee with her husband. Cindy can be contacted at www.cindysproles.com or by emailing cindyksproles@gmail.com.

In this encore episode, Linda and Cindy Sproles discuss the concepts many preachers use in preparing their sermons: Hook, Book, Look, and Took.
Find out how asking questions in your devotion can lose readers.
Everyone shares stories, but the reason telling a story in devotion is so important may surprise you.
Learn how to perfect your devotion by submitting it online to Christian Devotions.

LINKS

• Cindy Sproles
• Submit your devotion to Christian Devotions dot us
• Download your Hook, Book, Look, and Took PDF

If you enjoy Your Best Writing Life's content- consider a monthly donation through Patreon. Support Your Best Writing Life podcast

About your host - Linda Goldfarb
Besides hosting Your Best Writing Life, Linda Goldfarb is a multi-published award-winning author, audiobook narrator, international speaker, board-certified Christian life coach, co-owner, co-founder of the LINKED® Personality System, and co-author of the LINKED® Quick Guide to Personality series. Linda also hosts the Staying REAL About Faith & Family podcast - Check it out!

Visit Your Best Writing Life website.
Join our Facebook group, Your Best Writing Life
About your host - Linda Goldfarb
Awarded the Spark Media 2022 Most Bing-Worthy Podcast
Awarded the Spark Media 2023 Fan Favorites Best Solo Podcast

How do we write about hot topics without driving off our audience? Learn how during today's episode with Linda Goldfarb and Barb Winters. 

Welcome to Your Best Writing Life, an extension of the Blue Ridge Mountains Christian Writers Conference held in the beautiful Blue Ridge Mts 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. 

• When we talk or write about “hot topics” like pornography, divorce, or abortion, how do we approach the subject without alienating our audience? 
• How do we transform our painful past into a message God can use to help others?
• How do we speak in love without watering down the truth?

LINKS
Barb Winters
Barb on Facebook
Barb on Instagram
Barb on LinkedIn
Barb's book - Sexpectations 

Visit Your Best Writing Life website.
Join our Facebook group, Your Best Writing Life
About your host - Linda Goldfarb
Awarded the Spark Media 2022 Most Bing-Worthy Podcast
Awarded the Spark Media 2023 Fan Favorites Best Solo Podcast

Are your characters falling flat? If you are seeking how to write creative characters, today’s episode provides the answers you need.

Welcome to Your Best Writing Life, an extension of the Blue Ridge Mountains Christian Writers Conference held in the beautiful Blue Ridge Mts 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. 

My industry expert is…PeggySue Wells - PeggySue is the bestselling author of 36 books and collaborator for many more. Action and adventure, romantic suspense, military romance, and cozy mystery pact the pages of the novels penned by P.S. Wells, including Chasing Sunrise. How to live better, easier, and simpler is the focus of her nonfiction, including The Ten Best Decisions A Single Mom Can Make.

Post a comment on the Your Best Writing Life FB group to be in PeggySue’s giveaway drawing. 

LINKS

PeggySue Wells FB Author Page:
PeggySue Wells FB Personal Page:
PeggySue Wells on Linked In: 
PeggySue Wells Website:
Single Mom's Circle Website       
Craft Creative Characters Handout
Contact PeggySue

Visit Your Best Writing Life website.
Join our Facebook group, Your Best Writing Life
About your host - Linda Goldfarb
Awarded the Spark Media 2022 Most Bing-Worthy Podcast
Awarded the Spark Media 2023 Fan Favorites Best Solo Podcast

Ever thought nothing good could come out of writing during the year's busiest season? Today’s encore episode will change your mind.

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

My industry expert is Edie Melson. Edie is a woman of faith with ink-stained fingers observing life through the lens of her camera. She’s a card-carrying introvert who loves to encourage an audience. And she embraces the ultimate contradiction of being an organized creative. Her numerous books, including Unruffled, Thriving in Chaos, and the award-winning Soul Care series, reflect her passion for helping others develop the strength of their God-given gifts and apply them to their lives. Edie Melson, it’s so good to have you back on Your Best Writing Life!

Discover

• How writing helps us get through busy seasons
• The benefits of creating a Holiday Bucket List
• Strategies to make the most of your holiday writing

Links
Edie Melson
10 Things Writers Can Learn From Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer PDF download
The Write Conversation Blog
Blue Ridge Mountains Christian Writers Conference Contests
Register for the Blue Ridge Mountains Christian Writers Conference 

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About your host - Linda Goldfarb
Besides hosting Your Best Writing Life, Linda Goldfarb is a multi-published award-winning author, audiobook narrator, international speaker, board-certified Christian life coach, co-owner, co-founder of the LINKED® Personality System, and co-author of the LINKED® Quick Guide to Personality series. Linda also hosts the Staying REAL About Faith & Family podcast - Check it out!

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About your host - Linda Goldfarb
Awarded the Spark Media 2022 Most Bing-Worthy Podcast
Awarded the Spark Media 2023 Fan Favorites Best Solo Podcast

How much thought should go into book cover selection? Today’s guest shares five aspects we need to be clear on to have successful sales.

 Welcome to Your Best Writing Life, an extension of the Blue Ridge Mountains Christian Writers Conference held in the beautiful Blue Ridge Mts of NC. I’m your host, Linda Goldfarb.

Today’s guest is Samantha Evans – Sam's book Love Letters to Miscarriage Moms won second place in the Golden Scroll Awards for 2023. She and her husband live in Simpsonville, SC. Their cross-country move included two vehicles, three daughters, two cats—Pitter and Patter, and their husky.  Sam was overruled in her campaign to name the dog Onomatopoeia. 

Five aspects to consider when creating your book cover to maximize sales.
 The Title is our First Hook
Think in Terms of Thumbnails
Book cover Color Matters
Clear the Clutter       
Compare Shoppers vs. Readers  

LINKS
More About Samantha Evans
Samantha Evan’s Newsletter
Samantha Evans’ Website
Samantha Evans' PDF Chapter Giveaway
Samantha Evans on Twitter
Samantha Evans on Author Central
Samantha Evans on Facebook
Samantha Evans on Instagram
Samantha Evans on YouTube   

If you enjoy Your Best Writing Life's content- consider a monthly donation through Patreon. Support Your Best Writing Life podcast.
Linda would love to hear your thoughts about this episode.

About your host - Linda Goldfarb
Besides hosting Your Best Writing Life, Linda Goldfarb is a multi-published award-winning author, audiobook narrator, international speaker, board-certified Christian life coach, co-owner, co-founder of the LINKED® Personality System, and co-author of the LINKED® Quick Guide to Personality series.

Linda and her hubby, Sam, are empty nesters leading full lives. With four adult children and 15 grandbabies– life is a new adventure every day. She loves sipping frothed coffee with friends, traveling the countryside with Sam, and sharing transparent moments with family.

Visit Your Best Writing Life website.
Join our Facebook group, Your Best Writing Life
About your host - Linda Goldfarb
Awarded the Spark Media 2022 Most Bing-Worthy Podcast
Awarded the Spark Media 2023 Fan Favorites Best Solo Podcast

In today’s episode, Annette Marie Griffin shares how we can reach millions of people who have no clue who Christ is.

Welcome to Your Best Writing Life, an extension of the Blue Ridge Mountains Christian Writers Conference held in the beautiful Blue Ridge Mts 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 Articles That Inspire Readers.

My industry expert is…Annette Marie Griffin. Annette is an award-winning author who has written hundreds of high-ranking articles for Christianity.com, Crosswalk.com, Biblestudytools.com, OnePlace.com, and iBelieve.com. She's a columnist and an acquisitions editor for StarLight magazine, and she has won multiple awards for her articles, including the 2022 and 2023 BRMCWC Selah Awards for online articles.
LINKS
Annette Marie Griffin
Annette Marie Griffin on Twitter
Annette Marie Griffin on Facebook
Annette Marie Griffin on Instagram
Annette Marie Griffin on YouTube
Annette Marie Griffin on Familius
Write for CrossWalk.com

If you enjoy Your Best Writing Life's content- consider a monthly donation through Patreon. Support Your Best Writing Life podcast. 

I'd love to hear your thoughts about this episode --Linda

About your host - Linda Goldfarb
Besides hosting Your Best Writing Life, Linda Goldfarb is a multi-published award-winning author, audiobook narrator, international speaker, board-certified Christian life coach, co-owner, co-founder of the LINKED® Personality System, and co-author of the LINKED® Quick Guide to Personality series.

Linda and her hubby, Sam, are empty nesters leading full lives. With four adult children and 15 grandbabies– life is a new adventure every day. She loves sipping frothed coffee with friends, traveling the countryside with Sam, and sharing transparent moments with family.

Visit Your Best Writing Life website.
Join our Facebook group, Your Best Writing Life
About your host - Linda Goldfarb
Awarded the Spark Media 2022 Most Bing-Worthy Podcast
Awarded the Spark Media 2023 Fan Favorites Best Solo Podcast