Author Audience: Helping You Reach More People With Your Message | Writing | Self-publishing | Book Marketing | Business Grow

Feeling overwhelmed by everything it takes to self-publish your book? From ISBNs and editing to printing and launching—most Christian writers get buried in the to-do list before they ever hit publish. But it doesn't have to be that way. In this episode, Shelley Hitz shares the Kingdom Writer's Path—a simple, Spirit-led 5-step self-publishing roadmap that helps you go from idea to impact without the tech confusion or hustle. You'll learn: • What to focus on first (and what can wait) • How to build momentum in just 15 minutes a day • And how to publish with peace, clarity, and confidence If God has called you to write, we'll help you finish.

If you've ever thought, "This sounds great… but how do I know if it's really right for me?" —This episode is for you. In this behind-the-scenes look, Shelley Hitz shares why Christian Book Academy was built specifically for Christian writers who want to partner with God and follow a simple, spirit-led path to publishing. If you've tried other programs and felt overwhelmed, out of place, or unsupported—there's a reason. Most writing systems aren't designed for how God wired you. But this one is. Inside, you'll hear how writers like Jackie, Tanecia, and Lois finally finished their books after years of starting and stopping and why CBA may be exactly what you've been searching for. Let's finally finish what God started—together. Learn more at ChristianBookAcademy.com

Unseen Servants Unseen Servants and the risk of bitterness  As writers, we can often feel unseen. If we're not careful, we can become discontent and desire the praise and recognition from men & women. Are we able to be faithful and seek our approval and recognition from God alone? Let's take a look at some examples in scripture.  Gehazi, servant to Elisha (2 Kings 5:20-27) Martha (Luke 10:38-42) Older son (Luke 15:25-32) Women supporting Jesus (Luke 8:1-3) Our friend Craig Sampson, when I worked in YFC. This man was one of the best volunteers you could ever ask for. Always faithful with no desire for personal gain and recognition.  Matthew 6:4-6 - "Your Father who sees in secret…" Revelation 2:2-4 - "I know the things you do…" May we learn to be content as unseen servants for the Lord, regardless of any praise or recognition we receive from people.    Resources: If you're ready to take a step of faith and finally finish your book, we have a few ways we can help you.  1. Free Writing Week Challenge: Crea

Have you ever bought a writing course or joined a program… and still didn't finish your book? You're not alone—and you're not the problem. In this episode, we're unpacking the real reason so many Christian writers stay stuck—even after investing in programs. If you've felt overwhelmed, burned out, or discouraged by past experiences, this message is for you. You'll hear what makes Christian Book Academy different—and how hundreds of writers are finally finishing and publishing their books with a system that actually fits how God wired them. This isn't about trying harder. It's about having the right support. Because God's not done with your message. Let's take the next step—together. Take a step of faith and finally finish your book. Join Christian Book Academy: https://christianbookacademy.com/

Feeling unqualified to write your book? Like you need more confidence, more clarity, or more credentials before you start? In this episode, we're flipping that belief on its head. You'll hear why not feeling "ready" is often the exact sign God's calling you—and why He equips as you go. We'll share real stories from writers just like you, who stepped out in faith without a plan and saw God meet them on the path. This isn't about striving harder—it's about surrendering sooner. If you've felt the nudge to write but keep hesitating, this episode is your permission slip to take the next step… ready or not. Take a step of faith and finally finish your book. Join Christian Book Academy: https://christianbookacademy.com/

If you've ever started writing your book, felt excited, motivated, even called… and then life happened, momentum vanished, and guilt took over—this episode will breathe fresh hope into your calling. Shelley Hitz shares why starting and stopping is not a sign you've failed, fallen behind, or missed your assignment. Instead, it's a signal that you simply didn't have the right support system in place. You'll hear real stories from Christian writers who stalled for months—or even years—before finally finishing their books with clarity, confidence, and consistency. Shelley unpacks the shift that helped them move from "I'll try again someday" to holding a published book in their hands. You'll learn: Why your past attempts don't disqualify you The hidden reason most writers can't sustain momentum What changes when you stop writing alone How a simple 15‑minute rhythm can transform your writing life The structure and spiritual support that make finishing inevitable If God has placed a message on your

Fulfilling your Ministry "And say to Archippus, "Be sure to carry out the ministry the Lord gave you." ‭‭Colossians‬ ‭4‬:‭17‬ ‭ NIV = "complete the ministry" ESV = "fulfill the ministry" The Message = "And, oh, yes, tell Archippus, "Do your best in the job you received from the Master. Do your very best." "I am writing to Philemon, our beloved co-worker, and to our sister Apphia, and to our fellow soldier Archippus, and to the church that meets in your house." ‭‭Philemon‬ ‭1‬:‭1‬b-2‬  Most likely Philemon, his wife Apphia, and their son Archippus. All in the same household.  Imagine one person being singled out at the end of this letter to the Colossians church.  Most scholars see Paul's admonition to Archippus as simple encouragement, similar to Paul's exhortations in his epistles to Timothy and Titus. It's interesting to note that Paul had never actually visited the Colossians church in person but we can be sure his written words to them made a tremendous impact and continue to do so today. We are each an A

Think you need a long weekend or a perfect schedule to finish your book? Think again. In today's episode, Shelley shares the simple but powerful writing rhythm that's helping Christian Book Academy members finally finish their drafts — even in the middle of real life. If you've been stuck waiting for "someday," this is your permission to stop striving and start showing up — just 15 minutes at a time. Join us at https://christianbookacademy.com/ Take a step of faith and finally finish your book.

Do you feel stuck when it's time to market your book? Do you feel stuck when it's time to market your book? In this episode, Shelley shares how the Book Marketing Multiplier Workshop will give you a simple 3-step framework—Plan → Prompt → Post—to turn your own words into ready-to-share content in minutes. You'll walk away with emails, posts, and graphics you can use right away, plus a weekly rhythm to keep reaching readers without overwhelm.

If you've been spinning your wheels trying to decide which book to write first… this episode is for you. In just 5 minutes, you'll walk through a simple but powerful process to: ✅ Narrow down your book ideas ✅ Choose the breakthrough you're ready to write about ✅ Find the clarity and confidence to move forward This is the same process we teach inside our Book Writing Lab workshop — and it's helped so many Christian writers finally get unstuck and finish their books. You don't need to write your entire life story. You just need to start with one message you've lived.

Still waiting for clarity? Maybe it’s waiting on you. If you’ve been spinning your wheels trying to choose the perfect book idea, here’s the truth: it’s not about finding the flawless starting point. It’s about obeying the nudge God already gave you and moving forward in faith. If you’re stuck in overthinking mode, paralyzed by the fear of choosing wrong — this is your invitation to start simple, start small, and start now. Join us inside Christian Book Academy and take the next faithful step toward finishing your book at https://ChristianBookAcademy.com  

Most Christian writers think “longer = better.” But the data — and reader behavior — tell a completely different story. In this episode, I’ll show you why shorter books not only get finished but also sell. You’ll see the Amazon strategy behind it, how readers behave, and what’s working inside Christian Book Academy right now. Want help finally finishing and publishing your book? Join us inside https://ChristianBookAcademy.com

Persistent Pests “Catch all the foxes, those little foxes, before they ruin the vineyard of love, for the grapevines are blossoming!” ‭‭Song of Songs‬ ‭2‬:‭15‬ ‭ These little foxes aren’t yet fully grown. Nobody would think a cuddly little fox would be dangerous to have around. They love nothing better than to eat the young grapes before they come out fully. Thus, they wreak havoc on the vines of our walk with the Lord.  Let’s mention 5 of the “little foxes” or persistent pests that ruin some of our fruitful writing before it’s fully ripened… 1.) Sensitiveness or easily offended. It can be a small chip on our shoulder but flare up if we’re not given the respect we desire. It can stifle our creativity in writing and dry up the flow of the Spirit. Pray that we can have the mind and humility of Christ. 2.) Laziness. Too lazy to dig into the Word. Too lazy to spend time in prayer. This also leaks into our writing. The Kingdom Writer cannot afford to compromise in these areas if we expect eternal impact. There’s a

Your book deserves more than words on a page—it deserves stories that stay with readers long after they finish the last chapter. If you’ve ever worried your stories fall flat, feel surface-level, or simply don’t capture the power they held in real life, you’re not alone. Many writers struggle with stories that don’t connect deeply or get forgotten too quickly. That’s why we created the Stories That Stick workshop. In just 90 minutes, you’ll: Discover a list of meaningful story ideas you can use right away. Walk away with one fully outlined story that’s ready to bring to life. Learn a simple, repeatable framework to craft stories that resonate, connect, and remain unforgettable to your readers. Because a book shouldn’t just be written—it should be remembered. Get your ticket here: https://authors.thrivecart.com/stories-that-stick 

We are excited to announce that we've published a new book: Rise and Write. Get your copy at the links below. Rise and Write (Kindle): https://amzn.to/4fFoev2 Rise and Write (print): https://amzn.to/4lntRiI Forward your receipt to support@trainingauthors.com to claim your prizes Buy during launch week (Tues–Thurs 9/23/25 - 9/25/25) and get these special launch bonuses:  Silence Your Inner Critic workshop free ($47 value) Perfectionism Detox Journal free ($9 value)       Plus, you will be entered to win the Kingdom Writers Bundle ($69 value) shipped to your home — mug, tote bag, journal, t-shirt

Do you dream of being a bestselling author? Have you written a book but have no idea how to sell it? Can you envision your message in the hands of thousands of readers? Unlock the secrets to epic book sales with Susan Neal’s book How to Sell 1,000 Books a Month. Whether you’re a new writer or an experienced author looking to elevate your marketing tactics, this book offers a treasure of insights to significantly boost your sales and increase the effective outreach of your unique message. Susan Neal, an award-winning author and seasoned marketer, condenses years of successful sales and marketing strategies into practical steps that can turn your book into an award-winning bestseller. Learn how to: Create a focused and polished manuscript Captivate and grow your audience Master the art of online marketing Leverage social media to build a compelling author brand Use keywords to boost your book’s visibility Harness the power of reviews, blogs, and podcasts to increase sales This guide doesn’t just tell you what

Compassion Makes a Difference When does compassion matter most? It's when it's least deserved. Jesus showed us what it means to have compassion and what difference it makes in the world and for eternity. This is your friendly reminder to be more intentional about viewing the world with a compassionate heart. It makes a difference. Dak Frederick is an Author Success Coach and has spent hundreds of hours helping writers reach their goals. His clients describe him as patient, humble, and deeply invested in their success. Beyond writing, Dak is a singer and musician who enjoys playing the piano and guitar. He's been joyfully married for almost fourteen years and is a proud father to two girls. Dak is a Retired U.S. Marine Gunnery Sergeant. He holds a Master's in Counseling from Liberty University, a Bachelor's in Communication from Ashford University, as well as Digital Marketing Certificates from eCornell University. You can connect with him at: www.empoweredtopublish.com Resources: If you're ready to take a s

Dying to Ourselves How would you answer this question if God asked you… “If I should hand you a silver platter with one item, what would you like?” Perhaps the best answer: “Give me your will for my life, O God, with this, there is nothing more.” S.D. Gordon relates a similar experience, “I sometimes thought, what if God were to say to me: ‘I want to give you something as special as a love-gift; an extra because I love you: what would you like to have?’ Do you know what I thought I would say? ‘Dear God, you choose. I choose what You choose.’ An example of me asking Shelley where she would like to eat. Sometimes she responds, “You choose, I have decision fatigue.”

You don’t need a full memoir to make an eternal impact. In the Tiny Testimony Book Workshop, you’ll prayerfully choose the part of your story God is leading you to share, create a simple 6-chapter outline, and begin writing a short book that brings hope and healing to others—without overwhelm.   Get your ticket here: https://authors.thrivecart.com/testimony-book/

Ambassadors for Christ What does being an ambassador for Christ involve? Debra L. Butterfield shows the comparison between a US ambassador and an ambassador for Christ. She outlines the purpose and duties to give us a bigger picture of our work for the Lord. God has given us each a unique message to share with the world as His ambassadors. Bio: Debra L. Butterfield is the author of eleven books, a freelance editor, former editorial director of CrossRiver Media Group, and a former copywriter for Focus on the Family. https://www.themotivationaleditor.com/   Resources: If you're ready to take a step of faith and finally finish your book, we have a few ways we can help you.  1. Free Writing Week Challenge: Create a Writing Habit in 15-Minutes a Day Even if you feel overwhelmed or stuck in procrastination, sitting down to write for just 15 minutes a day is the best way to finally reach your writing goals. Most writers think they need hours of uninterrupted time to make progress in their writing. However, in this f