Synopsis
Shelley Hitz is on a mission to help you reach more people with your message because she believes every person has God-given gifts and abilities to impact the world. Each episode of Author Audience will be packed with ACTIONABLE training, spiritual inspiration, and encouragement for you to write, publish, and market your books. However, this podcast is not just about how to write and self-publish a book. It is so much more. Episodes also include topics on book marketing, social media marketing, how to sell more books, product creation, coaching, speaking, etc. Shelley’s passion is to help you connect with your audience in the best way possible. If you are a Christian author, Christian entrepreneur, or someone who simply wants to reach more people with your message, you're in the right place! The question is, are you ready to let your light SHINE?
Episodes
-
Overwhelmed by Writing a Book? Try This Instead.
06/01/2026 Duration: 05minNew 90-day sprint to finish your book starts September 10, 2026. Details at: https://www.trainingauthors.com/sprintFeeling called to write a book, but overwhelmed by where to start? In today's episode, Shelley shares why beginning with a guided journal is one of the simplest and most powerful ways to start publishing — especially for Kingdom writers who want to make an eternal impact without the overwhelm. You'll hear the story behind Shelley's own journal that reached thousands, why guided journals are easier to write than you think, and how you can create one quickly using a simple framework.
-
The 5-Step Self-Publishing Roadmap for Christian Writers
23/12/2025 Duration: 06minNew 90-day sprint to finish your book starts September 10, 2026. Details at: https://www.trainingauthors.com/sprintFeeling 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.
-
You Don't Have to Fit the Mold to Finish Your Book
18/12/2025 Duration: 06minNew 90-day sprint to finish your book starts September 10, 2026. Details at: https://www.trainingauthors.com/sprintIf 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 Don't forget to join us for the next 90-day sprint to finish your book here: https://www.trainingauthors.com/sprint Use coupon code IN
-
Unseen Servants
03/12/2025 Duration: 34minNew 90-day sprint to finish your book starts September 10, 2026. Details at: https://www.trainingauthors.com/sprintUnseen 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 ste
-
Why That Writing Program Didn't Work
25/11/2025 Duration: 05minNew 90-day sprint to finish your book starts September 10, 2026. Details at: https://www.trainingauthors.com/sprintHave 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/ Don't forget to join us for the next 90-day sprint to finish your book here: https://www.trainingauthor
-
You Don't Have to Feel Ready to Be Called
20/11/2025 Duration: 06minNew 90-day sprint to finish your book starts September 10, 2026. Details at: https://www.trainingauthors.com/sprintFeeling 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/ Don't forget to join us for the next 90-day sprint to finish your book here: https://www.trainingauthors.com/sprint Use coupon code INNERCIRCLE25 for 25% off through September 12, 2026.
-
The Real Reason You Keep Stalling on Your Book (and How to Break the Cycle)
13/11/2025 Duration: 06minNew 90-day sprint to finish your book starts September 10, 2026. Details at: https://www.trainingauthors.com/sprintIf 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
-
Fulfilling your Ministry
05/11/2025 Duration: 19minNew 90-day sprint to finish your book starts September 10, 2026. Details at: https://www.trainingauthors.com/sprintFulfilling 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
-
The Writing Rhythm That Works (Even When You're Busy)
28/10/2025 Duration: 04minNew 90-day sprint to finish your book starts September 10, 2026. Details at: https://www.trainingauthors.com/sprintThink 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. Don't forget to join us for the next 90-day sprint to finish your book here: https://www.trainingauthors.com/sprint Use coupon code INNERCIRCLE25 for 25% off through September 12, 2026.
-
Stop Struggling with Book Marketing
28/10/2025 Duration: 04minNew 90-day sprint to finish your book starts September 10, 2026. Details at: https://www.trainingauthors.com/sprintDo 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.
-
The 10-Minute Method to Pick Your First Book Topic
24/10/2025 Duration: 06minNew 90-day sprint to finish your book starts September 10, 2026. Details at: https://www.trainingauthors.com/sprintIf 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.
-
Worried You're Picking the Wrong Book Idea?
21/10/2025 Duration: 06minNew 90-day sprint to finish your book starts September 10, 2026. Details at: https://www.trainingauthors.com/sprintStill 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 Don't forget to join us for the next 90-day sprint to finish your book here: https://www.trainingauthors.com/sprint Use coupon code INNERCIRCLE25 for 25% off through September 12, 2026.
-
The books that sell (and get finished) on Amazon might surprise you…
16/10/2025 Duration: 06minNew 90-day sprint to finish your book starts September 10, 2026. Details at: https://www.trainingauthors.com/sprintMost 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 Don't forget to join us for the next 90-day sprint to finish your book here: https://www.trainingauthors.com/sprint Use coupon code INNERCIRCLE25 for 25% off through September 12, 2026.
-
Persistent Pests
01/10/2025 Duration: 26minNew 90-day sprint to finish your book starts September 10, 2026. Details at: https://www.trainingauthors.com/sprintPersistent 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 int
-
How to Sell 1000 Books a Month
11/09/2025 Duration: 20minNew 90-day sprint to finish your book starts September 10, 2026. Details at: https://www.trainingauthors.com/sprintDo 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 vi
-
Compassion Makes a Difference
03/09/2025 Duration: 25minNew 90-day sprint to finish your book starts September 10, 2026. Details at: https://www.trainingauthors.com/sprintCompassion 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 eC
-
Dying to Ourselves
06/08/2025 Duration: 22minNew 90-day sprint to finish your book starts September 10, 2026. Details at: https://www.trainingauthors.com/sprintDying 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."
-
Ambassadors for Christ
02/07/2025 Duration: 23minNew 90-day sprint to finish your book starts September 10, 2026. Details at: https://www.trainingauthors.com/sprintAmbassadors 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 goa
-
Clinging
04/06/2025 Duration: 23minNew 90-day sprint to finish your book starts September 10, 2026. Details at: https://www.trainingauthors.com/sprintClinging John 20:11-23 Luke 8:2 Jesus' words to Mary, "Do not cling to me," were not a rebuke; rather, they were a comfort that He would be around for a little while longer. Mary's response to Jesus offers us an opportunity to consider whether we really love Jesus. Are His death and resurrection just historical facts to us? Or, like Mary, do we love Him enough to cling to Him and then fulfill the tasks He has given us? Isn't it beautiful that the very first person to whom Jesus chooses to appear is not Pilate, not the chief priest, nor Peter or one of the other men, but to a weeping woman with a shady past? And isn't it exquisite that His first words are not a proclamation of power but a simple, pastoral, and playful question: 'Why are you crying?' Mary Magdalene has been referred to as the first apostle to the apostles. Imagine yourself in that room. How do you feel as Jesus appears? He breaks
-
Called
07/05/2025 Duration: 29minNew 90-day sprint to finish your book starts September 10, 2026. Details at: https://www.trainingauthors.com/sprintCalled When did you first feel the nudge to write? Since then, have you ever asked yourself these questions… Am I really called to write? Did I hear God wrong? There are so many other gifted writers out there already. Why should I even bother? God does not limit His message to a select few. We each offer something unique because we are created uniquely in His image. Four Things that confirm our calling to write: 1.) We have a story to share with others. "Come and listen, all you who fear God, and I will tell you what he did for me." Psalms 66:16 NLT 2.) The words we write are a light that shines for Christ. "In the same way, let your good deeds shine out for all to see, so that everyone will praise your heavenly Father." Matthew 5:16 NLT 3.) The words we write can outlive us and impact those who come behind us. "Let this be recorded for future generations, so that a people not