GospelWise Author Podcast

GospelWise Author Podcast

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GospelWise Author Podcast episodes

  • Should Christian Authors Advertise? Marketing, Book Promotion, and Making Faithful Connections With Readers | Ep. 009
    Hey Creative Christian,

    Excited to let you know that episode 9 of the GospelWise Author Podcast is live! In this week’s episode, we’re diving deep into one of the trickiest parts of the author journey: how to connect your books with readers—especially through advertising.

    🎙️ Episode Spotlight: Wondering if you should be advertising your book? How to do it without feeling pushy? Or what really works in today’s digital jungle? I get it. This episode is for you! 🙌

    Here are 5 keys you’ll learn in this episode:
    1. The Real Difference Between Marketing and AdvertisingUnderstand why marketing is about strategy and connection, and how advertising is just one (paid) path to make those connections!
    2. The 2 Extremes Authors Fall Into—And What Actually WorksWhy you don’t need to choose between spending thousands on ads or never advertising at all (hint: you can find a sustainable strategy that fits YOU).
    3. Unlocking the Power of Lead GenerationDiscover how giving something away for free can help you build a valuable email list—your most important asset as an author.
    4. Test, Learn, and Grow: A Measured Approach to AdsLearn why running small, thoughtful ad campaigns (and tracking your spending!) helps you reach readers without breaking the bank.
    5. Book-Specific Campaigns That Actually Drive SalesHear actionable tips for promoting your first-in-series book, leveraging discounts, and connecting with the RIGHT readers using platforms like Facebook, Amazon, and BookBub.

      6. Fun Fact from the Episode: After writing almost 80 books and spending 20+ years in publishing, I’m STILL learning and relearning how to connect with readers in the ever-changing world of online advertising! In fact, I’m in a Facebook Ad bootcamp right now 🙂

      So, whether you’re feeling hesitant, ready to dive in, or just want some fresh encouragement for your author business, this episode is packed with real talk and actionable steps.

      Ready to Take the Next Step?

      If you want even more practical tips to go from manuscript to marketplace, don’t forget to check out the GospelWise Author Book Marketing Essentials course at crossandpen.com/essentials. It’s designed especially for indie Christian authors like you!

      Let’s keep writing, publishing, and connecting—all for God’s glory and the good of our reading neighbors. If you’ve got questions or just want to chat about your author journey, reply to this email or reach out at crossandpen.com/contact. I’m here for you!

      Listen to the latest episode now, and keep creating for Christ!

      / jeremy

      PS: Remember, you are fully equipped and inspired to wield your pen for Christ! Get your roadmap for your creative journey.

      The post Should Christian Authors Advertise? Marketing, Book Promotion, and Making Faithful Connections With Readers | Ep. 009 appeared first on CROSS + PEN.

      28 min
    6. The Heartbeat of Writing: Creating for the Person Beyond the Page | Ep. 008
      Hey Creative Christian,

      The latest episode of the GospelWise Author Podcast is now live, and it’s a special one you won’t want to miss! In Episode 8, we’re diving into the heart of writing with purpose, service, and dedication for those who matter most—our readers!

      🎙️ Episode Spotlight: In this episode, I want to draw our writer self to a crucial aspect of our special calling that writers (and I’m speaking for myself here 👋 !) often forget: There is a person beyond the page.

      Here are 5 keys you’ll learn in this episode:
      1. Mindset Matters: The importance of remembering the “person beyond the page” as you write.
      2. The Joy of Independent Publishing: Discover the hidden pleasures of independently publishing and connecting personally with your audience, something Christian Creatives cherishes deeply.
      3. Recognizing Real Readers: Learn the significance of remembering the real people who invest not just money but also their precious time in your work.
      4. Building Community and Connection: Gain insights into the power of building authentic relationships with your readers through personal stories and genuine engagement.
      5. Walking as a Writer this Holy Week: Reflect on lessons we can take from Holy Week and apply to our role as communicators of faith, and how to incorporate love and service, modeled by Jesus, into your writing vocation.

        6. Fun Fact from the Episode: Did you know that I once wrote a reader into my story as a character? Meet Ed, a real super fan with an intriguing backstory, who became a part of the Order of Thaddeus series thanks to a Kickstarter campaign!

        Join us in reflecting on how we can steward the stories of Christ and our fellow readers in meaningful ways. As we journey through Holy Week, let’s recommit to writing words that inspire and uplift!

        What are some ways you can love and serve the person beyond the page through your writing? Get inspired by listening to the full episode and sharing your thoughts at our community page.

        Thank you for being part of this journey to wield the pen for the sake of the cross. Feel free to reach out if you’d like to chat more about your unique journey at gospelwiseauthor.com/contact.

        Listen to the latest episode now, and keep creating for Christ!

        / jeremy

        PS: Remember, you are fully equipped and inspired to wield your pen for Christ! Get your roadmap for your creative journey.

        The post The Heartbeat of Writing: Creating for the Person Beyond the Page | Ep. 008 appeared first on CROSS + PEN.

        30 min
      6. Make Wise Publishing Decisions for Your Christian Book | Ep. 007
        Hey Creative Christian,

        Thrilled to bring you the latest installment of the GospelWise Author Podcast. Whether you’re crafting stories or pouring your soul into devotionals, this episode has something for everyone to better understand your Christian publishing options.

        🎙️ Episode Spotlight: In this episode, we’re continuing the series on the roles and responsibilities of being a GospelWise Author with a focus on the Caretaker (aka publishing) Persona. Overwhelmed by publishing options, formats, and the business side of being an author? You’re not alone! And this episode is for you.

        Here are 5 keys you’ll learn in this episode:
        1. Understanding Your Publishing Options: Dive into the traditional, independent, and hybrid routes to see which publishing path fits you best.
        2. Mastering the Format Choices: Learn the intricacies of electronic, paperback, hardback, and audiobook formats and how to navigate them.
        3. The Importance of Treating Your Book as a Business: Jeremy shares essential advice on setting up your author business and managing it for success.
        4. Avoiding the Pay-to-Play Trap: Discover why avoiding vanity publishers can save your resources and enhance your publishing journey.
        5. Balancing Creation and Caretaking: Explore how you can both create and caretake your work for greater impact.
          6. Fun Fact from the Episode:

          Did you know that audiobooks are currently the fastest-growing format in the publishing space? Some publishers are selling more audiobooks than eBooks these days! You might want to consider releasing your book in this format if you haven’t already.

          Whether it’s traditional, independent, or hybrid, each path of the publishing process offers unique advantages. Take time to find the perfect route for your message. Your role as a caretaker means choosing wisely for your publishing journey, so I hope these insights and actionable advice will help.

          If this episode sparks a new idea or if you have any questions, don’t hesitate to reach out at [email protected]. Would love to hear your thoughts and support you on your author journey!

          And don’t forget to check out the Fast Guide to Publishing your book at crossandpenn.com/fastpublish for more expert guidance. The training will help you set up your publishing platform and publish your book in under 2 hours.

          Until next time, let’s create for Christ together 🖊️

          / jeremy

          PS: Remember, you are fully equipped and inspired to wield your pen for Christ! Get your roadmap for your creative journey.

          The post Make Wise Publishing Decisions for Your Christian Book | Ep. 007 appeared first on CROSS + PEN.

          23 min
        6. The Christian Creator’s Mission: Transforming Words into Vessels of Reconciliation | Ep. 006

          Hey Creative Christian,

          Thrilled to bring you the latest installment of the GospelWise Author Podcast. Whether you’re picking up the pen for the first time or are a seasoned wordsmith, this episode is packed with insights and inspiration to elevate your creative journey.

          🎙️ Episode Spotlight: In this episode, we’re diving deep into what it means to harness the Creator Persona as a GospelWise Author, empowering you to craft stories that inspire and bring glory to God.

          Here are 5 keys you’ll learn in this episode:
          1. Embrace Your Permission to Create: Discover why you are fully permitted and called by Christ to write and share your stories.
          2. Holistic Creative Approach: Get insights into balancing the roles of creator, caretaker, and connector as part of your artisan practice.
          3. Guarding Society Through Storytelling: Understand how your stories and resources can act as a safeguard for people’s lives and society.
          4. Till and Cultivate Your Words: Learn about the agrarian Hebrew term “abad” and how it relates to cultivating your unique creative works.
          5. Reconciling Intent: Explore how you can be a vessel of reconciliation, repairing what was broken by acting as a minister of reconciliation through your writing.
            6. Fun Fact from the Episode:

            Did you know that the term shamar in Hebrew means to guard or caretake? Jeremy relates this back to our role in safeguarding not just the earth, but people’s stories through our creative expressions.

            Thanks a million for tuning in!

            We’re beyond excited to have you on this creative journey with us.

            Dive deeper into this journey by accessing tools and faith-fueled training at gospelwiseauthor.com. Check out the episode’s show notes and transcript at crossandpen.com/podcast. And let me know how I can support your unique vocation by reaching out!

            Let’s put those words to work this week and create something that brings glory to God and serves our community. Remember, you are fully equipped and inspired to wield your pen for Christ.

            Until next time, let’s create for Christ together 🖊️

            / jeremy

            PS: Remember, you are fully equipped and inspired to wield your pen for Christ! Get your roadmap for your creative journey.

            The post The Christian Creator’s Mission: Transforming Words into Vessels of Reconciliation | Ep. 006 appeared first on CROSS + PEN.

            26 min
          6. Four Personas to Focus Your Christian Author Journey | Ep. 005
            Hey Creative Christian,

            A brand-new episode of the GospelWise Author Podcast is here for you, and it’s tailor-made to fuel your writing journey with purpose and faith. Episode 5 is packed with wisdom, guidance, and a sprinkle of inspiration to help you wield your pen for the glory of God and the good of your neighbor.

            🎙️ Episode Spotlight: Join us this week as we dive into the core identity of being a Christian writer, and how it should shape every aspect of our author journey. In episode 5, we’ll explore the foundational Persona of being a “Christian” and how it influences our roles as creators, caretakers, and connectors.

            In this episode, you’ll discover:
            1. Four Key Personas for Writers: Dive into the roles of Christian, Creator, Caretaker, and Connector, and learn how to harness these personas to navigate your author journey.
            2. Refocusing the Author Identity: We explore the importance of anchoring your author identity in your Christian faith and how it influences your writing, publishing, and marketing strategies.
            3. Crafting with a Purpose: Learn about the balance between creativity and faith, and explore how to write stories that not only entertain but also inspire and transform.
            4. An Example: The Christian Caretaker’s Dilemma: Consider a discussion around Kindle’s exclusivity and how it impacts our responsibility as Christian Caretakers.
            5. Scriptural Rooting: Be inspired by biblical insights that remind us to trust, submit, and create in alignment with God’s heart and purpose.

              6. Fun Fact from the Episode: Jeremy shares how his pastoral background influences his approach to creating alliterative handles (the four Cs) in the discussion about aligning one’s writing career with Christian values. Who knew preaching could translate so creatively into writing!

              As always, thank you for being part of our GospelWise Author community. We hope this episode leaves you encouraged and equipped to take your writing to new, impactful heights.

              Tune in now to Episode 5 and share your thoughts and experiences with us below 👇👇Plus, head over to gospelwiseauthor.com for tools and training that’ll empower you to live out your calling with confidence.

              Keep writing, keep inspiring, and remember – you’re not just a writer; you’re a GospelWise Author!

              Until next time, let’s create for Christ together 🖊️

              / jeremy

              P.S. Mark your calendar for next week’s episode where we’ll continue exploring each persona in more depth. You won’t want to miss it!

              The post Four Personas to Focus Your Christian Author Journey | Ep. 005 appeared first on CROSS + PEN.

              29 min
            6. Marketing as a Christian Author – Permission Granted! | Ep. 004
              Hey Creative Christian!

              Thrilled to share Episode 4 of the GospelWise Author Podcast! This week, your host Jeremy delves into a topic many Christian writers grapple with. Here’s a sneak peek of what you’ll discover in this empowering episode.

              🎧 Episode Spotlight: Should Christians market their books? Good question! Many of us hesitate to sell our books, fearing we’re being bothersome or struggling with imposter syndrome. It’s common among creatives. Let’s explore how we can responsibly market our passion projects while staying true to our faith.

              The GospelWise Author™ is a reader-supported publication. Become an insider to get actionable advice and inspiration to write, publish, and market your books.

              🗝 5 Keys Listeners Will Learn:
              1. Redefining Marketing:Discover what marketing truly means and why it’s not the dirty word many creatives perceive it to be.
              2. Imposter Syndrome Insights:Jeremy shares his relatable personal struggles with self-doubt and how he’s overcoming them.
              3. Spiritual Roadblocks:Learn about the common spiritual misconceptions that hinder authors from marketing their books and how to navigate them.
              4. Loving Your Neighbor Through Promotion:Find out why marketing is actually a form of loving your neighbor by offering them your stories and expertise.
              5. The Marketplace as Ministry:Understand the importance of viewing your writing journey as a ministry opportunity to serve others.

                6. 🎲 Fun Fact: Did you know that I still get nervous about emailing my own list, even though they’ve signed up to hear about my next big thing? Yep, even hosts deal with occasional self-doubt 😉 You’re not alone in this!

                This episode is packed with insights and permission-giving advice that will shift your perspective on marketing from fear to freedom. Whether you’re at the beginning or somewhere in the middle of your author journey, you’ll walk away with fresh inspiration and practical steps to confidently connect your work with the world!

                Join the Conversation: We’d love to hear how you’re tackling your own marketing challenges! Share your thoughts or questions in the comments section on our podcast page.

                Let’s create for Christ together 🖊️

                / jeremy

                P.S. If you have any thoughts, questions, or just want to say hi, drop me a message at crossandpen.com/contact. I’d love to hear from you!

                The post Marketing as a Christian Author – Permission Granted! | Ep. 004 appeared first on CROSS + PEN.

                23 min
              6. Maximize Your Author Publishing Success and Avoid Costly Mistakes | Ep. 003
                Hey Creative Christian!

                Thrilled to share episode 3 of the GospelWise Author Podcast! 🎧 We’ve got some real talk about the modern 2.0 publishing world and our roles as Caretakers of our work. Whether you’re just starting your writing journey or are a seasoned author, this episode is packed with insights you won’t want to miss.

                🎧 Episode Spotlight: In today’s dynamic publishing landscape, the options for Christian authors are both exciting and daunting. With our mission to wield the pen for the sake of the cross and to share stories + resources that ignite faith, it’s crucial to understand the pathways + pitfalls of publishing. I’m here today to guide you 👊

                The GospelWise Author™ is a reader-supported publication. Become an insider to get actionable advice and inspiration to write, publish, and market your books.

                Here are the 5 keys you’ll learn in this episode:
                1. Understanding the Publishing World: Dive deep into the paths of traditional and independent publishing and discover which might be right for you.
                2. Avoiding the Pitfalls: Learn about the ‘slimy’ middle ground of publishing that might cost you a fortune without delivering actual results.
                3. Empowering Independent Publishing: Gain insights into how you can publish and market your book independently, all while keeping your costs manageable.
                4. Traditional vs. Independent Publishing: Explore the contrast between these two routes and understand the financial dynamics involved.
                5. Practical Steps for Aspiring Authors: Get actionable advice on how to move forward with your passion project, connecting it to those who need your story.

                  6. Fun Fact from the Episode: Did you know that if you have to pay a ‘publishing’ company big bucks to publish your work, it’s likely not a real publisher? 💡 In the modern world, an actual publishing company should pay you, not the other way around! 💰

                  Writing and publishing is indeed a journey. Remember, you’re not alone! With a little guidance, you can avoid common pitfalls and ignite faith in your world with confidence.

                  Set up your own publishing platform in an hour 🚀
                  Grab my KDP Setup in a Flash walkthrough training (seriously, it’s that fast!)

                  Ready to dive deeper into the world of publishing and start your own author journey with confidence? Visit CROSS + PEN’s Everything Page for tools and training to empower and equip your creative journey.

                  Thanks for joining me! Your passion and books can bring light to others’ lives – let’s make that happen together. And if this episode sparks any questions or ideas, comment below 👇👇👇

                  / jeremy

                  P.S. If you’d like more personalized guidance on your writing journey, feel free to reach out to me at crossandpenn.com/contact. I’m here to help!

                  The post Maximize Your Author Publishing Success and Avoid Costly Mistakes | Ep. 003 appeared first on CROSS + PEN.

                  21 min
                6. My StoryWise Formula to Write Compelling Christian Stories that Transform | Ep. 002
                  Hey Creative Christian!

                  Hope this finds you well and you’re ready to dive deep into the world of storytelling!

                  🎧 Episode Spotlight: In this episode, we’re diving into what it means to be a Creator in our vocation as gospel wise authors. I’m exploring storytelling as a powerful tool to ignite faith and transform lives, and the basics of how to get started. Don’t miss out on this exploration of story that could shape your writing journey!

                  The GospelWise Author™ is a reader-supported publication. Become an insider to get actionable advice and inspiration to write, publish, and market your books.

                  Here are 5 keys you’ll learn in this episode:

                  1. The Creator’s Calling: Understanding that as authors, our stories are a unique ministry.
                  2. A Formula for Storytelling: The basic yet profound StoryWise Formula™ that simplifies storytelling.
                  3. Character and Setting: How to frame a compelling character narrative in an engaging setting.
                  4. Try-Fail Cycle: Discover the cycle of trying and failing, and why it’s crucial in narrative structuring.
                  5. Resolution Tactics: Deciding your story’s ending and why it aligns with Christian perspectives.

                    6. 🤓 Fun Fact from the Episode: Did you know my first foray into fiction was inspired by my personal spiritual journey? A whirlwind dive during National Novel Writing Month led to my first novel!

                    As always, I’m here to empower and equip you with the insights you need to wield the pen for the sake of the cross. I hope you find this episode empowering and inspiring! 🎙️✨

                    Take your storytelling journey further. Grab my StoryWise Formula™ for Rock-Solid Storytelling training for $10.

                    Dive deeper into your storytelling journey by visiting gospelwiseauthor.com for other faith-fueled training and handy tools. Feel free to reach out with any questions or share your own story creation journey! Happy listening and creating for Christ.

                    / jeremy

                    P.S. How have you found story to benefit your own GospelWise author ministry?

                    The post My StoryWise Formula to Write Compelling Christian Stories that Transform | Ep. 002 appeared first on CROSS + PEN.

                    19 min
                  6. Unleash Your Transformational Ministry by Writing, Publishing, & Marketing Your Book | Ep. 001
                    Hey Creative Christian,

                    I’m thrilled to announce the launch of the very first episode of the GospelWise Author Podcast! 🙌 If you’re a creative Christian with a passion for writing, publishing, and marketing, this podcast is your ultimate guide to navigating the modern publishing landscape.

                    The GospelWise Author™ is a reader-supported publication. Become an insider to get actionable advice and inspiration to write, publish, and market your books.

                    In Episode 1, we dive into my own author journey, set the stage for the road ahead, and explore the heart of what it means to be a GospelWise Author. Here’s a sneak peek at what you’ll learn:

                    5 Key Insights You’ll Learn:
                    1. Navigating the Publishing World: Jeremy shares his insights into the seismic shifts in the publishing industry over the past two decades and how you can leverage the modern landscape to fuel your holy ambition.
                    2. Embracing the Christian Creative Identity: Discover what it truly means to find your identity as a Christian writer and how this shapes the stories you tell and the resources you create.
                    3. Caretaking Your Creations: Learn the importance of stewarding your creative works through thoughtful publishing practices that honor both your artistic vision and business acumen.
                    4. Connecting Through Marketing: Jeremy redefines marketing as a form of connection and service, emphasizing how to authentically share your work without feeling sleazy.
                    5. Harnessing Your Personal Story: Explore how your unique spiritual journey can influence and enhance your writing, helping you craft works that resonate with and transform your readers’ lives.
                      6. Fun Fact from the Episode:

                      Did you know that Jeremy’s very first published book, The (un)Offensive Gospel of Jesus, was released on October 31, 2008? It was his own personal 95 Theses moment, challenging prevailing ideas and reshaping the discourse around the Gospel.

                      We’re just getting started on this exciting journey to create for Christ together!

                      Join us every week as we explore the essential roles of Christian creatives: mindset, creation, caretaking, and connection. Your journey as a Gospel Wise Author is unique and important, and we’re here to support you every step of the way.

                      Don’t miss out—subscribe to the Gospel Wise Author Podcast for more inspiring insights.

                      Remember, I’m here to come alongside you in this amazing vocation. If you’d like to reach out, feel free to connect at www.crossandpen.com/contact. Wield the pen for the sake of the cross, igniting faith in your world, one word at a time.

                      Let’s create for Christ together 🖊️

                      / jeremy

                      P.S. Would love to hear your thoughts on the first episode! Drop a message and share what resonates with you. 😊

                      The post Unleash Your Transformational Ministry by Writing, Publishing, & Marketing Your Book | Ep. 001 appeared first on CROSS + PEN.

                      38 min
                    6. GospelWise Author Insights for the Christian 2.0 Publishing World | Ep. 000

                      Hey Creative Christian!

                      Jeremy here, and I’m thrilled to announce that we’ve just launched the very first episode of the GospelWise Author Podcast! 🎙️🎉 Episode 000 is now live, and it’s all about setting the stage for our journey together as GospelWise authors.

                      In this special introduction episode, I share the heart and vision behind the GospelWise Author space through my creative studio, CROSS + PEN. This podcast is here to be your go-to resource for actionable advice, inspiration, and insights tailored specifically for Christian writers like you.

                      We’re diving into what it means to wield the pen for the sake of the cross, all for God’s glory and the gospel good of our neighbor.

                      5 Keys you’ll learn in the coming episodes:

                      1. The Essence of Being a GospelWise Author:Discover the mindset and heart posture needed to write for Christ, focusing on glorifying God and serving your readers.
                      2. Navigating the Creative Process:Overcome creative blocks and find joy in crafting stories, devotionals, studies, and more that delight and inspire others.
                      3. Understanding Modern Publishing:Insights into the pros and cons of traditional vs. indie publishing, and how to navigate the plethora of publishing options.
                      4. Marketing with Integrity:Learn strategies to market your work in a way that draws attention to Jesus and serves your audience well.
                      5. Connecting with Readers:Tips on building authentic connections with your readers and growing your platform in ways that honor your calling as a Christian creator.

                        6. Fun Fact from the Episode: Did you know that I’ve been in the publishing industry for over 18 years? Yep! From working with big Christian publishers to indie publishing my own works, I’ve seen it all. I share some of these experiences to help you navigate the choppy seas of the modern publishing world. 🌊📚

                        One of the things I emphasize is four key roles or “personas” that Christian authors must embrace:

                        • Christian
                        • Creator
                        • Caretaker
                        • Connector

                          • Future episodes will tackle specific aspects of these roles and include interviews with other professionals in the field. The goal is to offer insights and advice for leaning into each of these roles, weeks 1 – 4, with an added bonus on 5-week months.

                          The podcast aims to fill a specific niche by addressing unique challenges faced by Christian authors in the modern publishing world. I’m super excited to embark on this journey with you!

                          Whether you’re at the start of your writing journey or somewhere in the middle, this podcast is here to empower, equip, and inspire you. Remember, each week, we’ll tackle different aspects of what it means to be a GospelWise author. So, stay tuned and let’s create for Christ together!

                          Ready to dive in? 🎧 Go listen to Episode Zero of the GWA Podcast now! You can find the episode show notes and a transcript here. And don’t forget to check out our resource hub at www.gospelwiseauthor.com for more tools and faith-fueled training to support your author journey.

                          Would love to hear your thoughts! Drop a line at crossandpenn.com/contact if you have any questions or if there’s anything specific you’d like us to cover in future episodes. I’m here for you! So let me know how I can help 😀

                          Let’s make His name known through our words and stories. Happy writing!

                          Let’s create for Christ together 🖊️

                          / jeremy

                          P.S. Episode One is just a few days away. Stay tuned!

                          The post GospelWise Author Insights for the Christian 2.0 Publishing World | Ep. 000 appeared first on CROSS + PEN.

                          16 min

                        About GospelWise Author Podcast

                        From the publisher's feed

                        Your go-to source for advice and inspiration to write, publish, and market your book for God’s glory and your neighbor’s gospel good.