Ink and Impact for Christian Writers | How to Write a Book, Self-Publish, Christian Book, Book Marketing, Nonfiction Book

In this episode of the Ink and Impact Podcast , Christian book coach Dalene Bickel speaks directly to the authors who are doing all the things, trying all the tools, and running themselves ragged — yet still not seeing the results they had hoped for. Using a relatable and vivid analogy, Dalene reframes what it really means to be a productive author and shares five key pillars every Christian write...

In this episode of the Ink and Impact Podcast, Christian book coach Dalene Bickel reveals three essential questions every Christian author needs to be able to answer before writing or self-publishing their nonfiction book.  From clarifying your book's purpose to examining your deeper motivations as a writer, this episode challenges you to think differently about your author journey.  If you&a...

In this episode of the Ink and Impact Podcast, host Dalene Bickel sits down with publishing veteran Terry Whalin — editor, author, and acquisitions editor at Morgan James Publishing — for an eye-opening conversation about the traditional publishing world.  Terry pulls back the curtain on some of the biggest myths and misconceptions that hold authors back, while sharing insider strategies that coul...

Are you a Christian author who feels stuck, stalled, or held back from sharing the message God placed on your heart?  In this episode, we uncover the surprising truth behind what is really keeping faith-based writers from finishing and publishing their books — and it may not be what you think.  Drawing from a powerful passage in 2 Corinthians, this episode delivers a convicting and encouraging wor...

Money isn't spoken about much in writing circles, which is why I invited David Nassief on to be my guest.  Not only does he share his own inspiring financial journey in this episode, but he also shares how you can steward both your money and your message well. No matter how much money is in your bank account, you'll benefit from the valuable information David shares. Be sure to listen in...

In today's episode, I explain exactly what a book coach is and how you can know when you need one as a Christian writer.  I have worked in a variety of levels within the publishing industry: First as an editor, then as the founder of Lasting Legacy's Publishing and then, when God called me to specifically call his writers, I became a book coach. Today I share my passion for helping you g...

Way back when I was in track in high school, all runners – even us distance runners – were required to run sprints at practice.  These short, concentrated bursts of energy pushed our bodies and stretched our muscles in new ways, ultimately making us better runners. But… Sometimes we didn’t feel like running. Sometimes our finish times were lousy.  Sometimes we tripped and fell. Yet by the end of t...

Thinking of writing a book? Fantastic! The world needs more good ones! But completing your manuscript and turning it into a quality printed book is a journey. Listen in to discover 7 truths about writing a book that are often overlooked or misunderstood.   Resources: Snag your copy of my FREE guide, Your Path to Publishing Connect with Dalene: Contact - > info@inkandimpact.com Podcast -＞ Ink a...

Spotfiy just announced that it will begin selling physical books in partnership with BookShop.org this spring.  Listen in to discover what this means for authors ... and the marketing lessons we can learn from Spotify. Sources: LinkedIn -  Spotify will sell physical books in expansion beyond audio Wall Street Journal - Spotify, a Major Audiobook Provider, Will Soon Offer Physical Books Companies M...

Before you dive into writing, learn these three things that can thwart you from reaching your author goals this year.  Listen in! Next Steps: Step 1: Join a supportive community of nonfiction Christian writers at the free Facebook group Publish Like a Pro . Step 2: Get more personalized support through 1:1 book coaching at www.dalenebickel.com/bookworthy-coaching   Connect with Dalene: Contact - &...

Whether we ask for it or not, every author receives feedback and often, it's in the form of criticism. How you respond to that criticism is important. Today I share the 2 Questions Every Author Should Ask Themselves when they receive real - or perceived - criticism. Next Steps: Step 1: Join a supportive community of nonfiction Christian writers at the free Facebook group Publish Like a Pro ....

As I've mentioned before, there are no cookie-cutter solutions for authors.  Such is the case for book length - what might be too long for one reader might be the perfect length for another.  However, there are general rules of thumb and best practices you can use to determine when your manuscript is complete. I'm going to share 3 of those best practices with you today! Next Steps: Step...

Do you want to write a book ... or is it the will of God that you write a book? There's a big difference. There's nothing wrong with creating a book based on your personal desire to do so, but when God wants you to write a book, it gives your book enhanced meaning and purpose. The impact will be bigger and can lead to unexpected blessings that you could never have imagined. This isn&apos...

What worked last year ... and what didn't? What goals do you have for your author career next year? It's important for every writer to ask themselves these questions. This episode is more than just a year in review summary, it digs deeper into why certain things may not have worked and showcases the importance of inviting God into your everyday author journey. Listen in to reflect, plan,...

How consistent is your writing schedule right now? Do you feel guilty if you aren't writing for an hour (or more) every day? It's easy to compare ourselves with others but the reality is we all have different schedules and commitments.  If you're struggling to write more often, you'll be encouraged by my guest Becca Yager as she shares her writing approach, which has less to do...

"I wish I hadn't sold so many books," said no author ever.  Authors ALWAYS want to sell more books, but most of the time, they simply don't know HOW.  The good news is that regardless of whether you're a first-time aspiring author or a seasoned multi-book household name, there are ways you can consistently sell more books - yes, even your backlist titles.  Here's a cr...

Has God called you to write a book but you don't feel qualified? Do you work full time and wonder how you'd ever fit writing a book into your busy schedule? Have you ever wondered if anyone would even buy your book if you took the time to write it? If so, you'll be encouraged and inspired by Kim Oswalt who shared those same questions but decided to simply step out in obedience to be...

Are you ready to self-publish your nonfiction book? Are you 100% certain? Maybe the deadline is looming and you're scurrying around, trying to do all the last-minute things. But have you taken the time to honestly evaluate the big-picture things that can make or break your book's success? Anyone can learn how to write a book. You need to create one that stands out. And the majority of au...

Have you ever been led to include something in your book that seems completely random? Do you wonder how networking applies to authors? Are you overlooking opportunities to serve others with your writing? In today's episode, you'll learn how God can use your past experiences and current talents to create a meaningful legacy in a variety of unexpected ways. This interview is the third in...

Are you ready to write a profitable nonfiction book?  If so, today's episode is for you.  Just to be clear, today's episode isn't about marketing tips and sales strategies - I'll talk more about those in future episodes. Before you get upset and accuse me of clickbait, I encourage listen through to the end.  You'll soon discover that profitability extends far beyond our ba...

Have you ever found yourself ostracized from a group you thought was your tribe? Have you ever doubted that you can be accepted for who you are? Have you ever felt somewhat adrift after the frenzy of finishing a book on a tight deadline? If so, you'll relate with today's guest and benefit from her insights and infectious joy.  Today's interview is the second in a series of 6 bonus e...

 You're a Christian entrepreneur who has heard all the benefits of writing a book - attract new clients,  become seen as an authority or thought leader in your field,  be invited to speak on bigger stages... That all sounds great, but you have an even bigger purpose than that. You want to share your expertise to help others and make a meaningful Kingdom impact. And all of that sounds like it...

This interview with artist and writer Holly Beals is the first in a series of 6 bonus episodes to shine a spotlight on a few of the amazing members of my Christian Authors in Action community.  Listen in to discover how you can tap into your own creativity and apply simple strategies and processes to become more focused and productive during your writing sessions. CONNECT WITH HOLLY BEALS Website...

Get ready to make an impact AND an income from your book. ​ In this 1-hour live masterclass you'll learn: How to get laser-focused on your publishing goals My signature self-publishing framework The 3 keys to selling more books and generating more income opportunities ​ Sign up today to make sure you don't miss it. Remember, it's completely FREE! ​ Register here and invite a fellow...

 Have you felt God nudging you to write a book, but you haven't started it yet? Or maybe He called you to write a book years ago and you began the project, but then you allowed distractions to cause you to place it on the back burner. Maybe you've been keeping that book simmering in the background, occasionally giving it a stir, but maybe you turned off the heat, walked away, and let it...