The Writing at the Red House Podcast

You've finally finished your book—congratulations! But here's the truth many authors discover too late: the finish line of writing is really just the starting line of getting your message into readers' hands and hearts. When Your Book Needs More Than Pages In this encouraging episode, Kathi sits down with Lori G Melton, author of Journey with a Giant and member of the Writing at the Red House Collective, to explore what happens after you type "The End." If you've ever wondered how to extend your book's reach without feeling overwhelmed by endless marketing tasks, this conversation is for you. Lori shares her journey of creating an entire ecosystem around her spiritual growth book—not because she had to do everything, but because she strategically chose what excited her most. From a 12-episode podcast series to a quiz built with ChatGPT, her story proves that thoughtful, passion-driven marketing can multiply your book's impact. What You'll Discover in This Episode Why treating your book as "the center of a larger experience" changes everything How to decide which companion resources to create without the pressure to do it all The power of starting with what excites you (like cleaning out one drawer instead of the whole closet) Practical tips for creating a discussion guide, podcast series, Bible study, and interactive quiz How to use a Facebook group to support readers who don't have an in-person community The surprising way ChatGPT can help you build tools for your readers Why your author website should be the central hub for all your resources Key Takeaways for Your Writing Journey Whether you're pre-publication and dreaming about launch day, or post-publication wondering what comes next, this episode offers a roadmap for building community around your message. Lori's approach reminds us that we don't have to do everything—we just need to start with what we're most passionate about and let the rest unfold. The goal isn't to exhaust yourself with marketing tactics. It's to create meaningful touchpoints that help readers engage deeply with your message and find the community they need to apply what they've learned.

You've finished your manuscript, and now you're facing one of the biggest decisions of your writing journey: Should you pursue traditional publishing or take the indie route? If you've ever felt paralyzed by this choice, you're not alone—and this episode is exactly what you need.Literary agent Sherri Wilson Johnson brings a unique perspective to this conversation. As both an agent at Gardner Literary and a self-published romance author, she's walked both paths and understands the real-world implications of each choice. In this candid conversation recorded during a Writing at the Red House Collective session, Sherry breaks down the essential questions you need to ask yourself before making this crucial decision.Key Questions to Guide Your Publishing DecisionBefore you can choose your path, Sherri encourages writers to honestly assess where they are:Are you a writer only, or are you willing to become a business person? Self-publishing requires entrepreneurial skills—or a team to provide them.Are you a solo creator or a collaborator? Traditional publishing means working with editors, marketers, and designers who will have opinions about your work.Do you want to pay people or have them pay you? With indie publishing, you invest upfront. With traditional, you receive an advance.How much of a hurry are you in? Traditional publishing timelines can stretch 18 months or longer from contract to bookshelf.Do you need full creative control? Traditional publishers have final say on covers, titles, and sometimes content.Do you need the validation of traditional publishing? Be honest about what success looks like for you.The Beautiful Truth: You Have OptionsOne of the most freeing takeaways from this episode is that you don't have to choose just one path forever. The hybrid author model—where writers publish both traditionally and independently—is increasingly common. Kathi herself has done this, traditionally publishing books like Clutter Free while self-publishing companion Bible studies.What About Your Platform?Sherri addresses a common misconception: "I don't have a platform, so I'll just self-publish." Her honest response? That's fine, but then you might not sell any copies. Self-publishing isn't the easy way out—it's simply a different path with its own challenges. The key is knowing your goals before you begin.Does Self-Publishing Hurt Your Traditional Chances?Good news for indie authors: self-publishing generally doesn't count against you with traditional publishers. In fact, Sherri notes that despite her published novels, she would be considered a "debut author" if she pursued traditional publishing. However, if you traditionally publish and have poor sales, that can affect future opportunities.Finding the Right SupportWhether you choose traditional or indie publishing, you'll need help. Sherri recommends vetted resources for editors through Gardner Literary's website and suggests 99 Designs for cover design. She also points listeners to the Christian Indie Authors Facebook group for community support.The bottom line? Your publishing path should align with your "why." As Sherri shares from her own experience, when her motivation shifted from ministry to money-making, she couldn't write at all. Regularly reassessing your goals and motivations will help you make decisions that serve both your message and your calling.

Are you stuck trying to figure out whether to self-publish or pursue traditional publishing? You're not alone. This decision can feel overwhelming, especially when you're juggling life responsibilities while pursuing your writing dreams.In this special replay from last year's Path to Publish conference, Kathi Lipp sits down with Sherri Johnson—a literary agent with the Gardner Agency who has also self-published 14 books and been traditionally published. Sherri offers a unique perspective that few in the industry can provide: she's literally done it all.What You'll Learn in This EpisodeThe key differences between traditional publishing and self-publishingWhat the "Big Five" publishers are and how smaller presses differWhy hybrid publishing might not be your best option (and what to watch out for)The advantages of traditional publishing: expertise, marketing support, and validationThe advantages of indie publishing: freedom, speed, and a bigger slice of the financial pieWhy you shouldn't view self-publishing as a "consolation prize"The Bottom LineAs Sherri reminds listeners, you get to decide. Whether you're drawn to the validation and support of traditional publishing or the freedom and speed of indie publishing, the choice is yours. The only thing you can't control is whether a publisher says yes—but that doesn't mean self-publishing is settling. It's simply a different path with its own unique rewards.About Our GuestSherri Johnson is a literary agent with the Gardner Agency, a self-published author of 14 books, and has also been traditionally published. Her diverse experience gives her unparalleled insight into all aspects of the publishing industry.This episode is Part 1 of Sherri's Path to Publish session. Stay tuned for Part 2, where she dives into practical questions to help you decide which path is right for you!

Have you ever felt like you need to start from scratch every time you begin a new writing project? What if the material you've already created—your blog posts, speaking notes, Instagram reels, and journal entries—is actually the foundation for your next book? In this episode of the Writing at the Red House podcast, Kathi Lipp sits down with Becky Keife, author of the brand new book A Verse a Day for the Anxious Soul, to discuss how writers can strategically repurpose their existing content without feeling like they're cutting corners. What You'll Discover in This Episode If you've been building your platform by writing articles, creating social media content, or speaking on your topic, you've been unknowingly stockpiling ingredients for your book. Becky shares how God showed her that the years of content she'd created around anxiety weren't just a safety net—they were her launch pad. Key Insights for Writers Your backlog is a gift, not a shortcut. Instead of viewing repurposed content as lazy writing, recognize it as stewarding what God has already given you. Social proof matters. That Instagram reel that performed well? That conference talk that resonated? Those are signals pointing you toward content that connects with your audience. Research your own words first. Before diving into other experts' books, mine your own articles, journals, speaking notes, and social media posts. Repetition serves your reader. The same story told multiple times can bring fresh insight, deeper connection, and spiritual transformation. Old stories gain new insights. Your perspective evolves, and the Holy Spirit makes new connections over time. Practical Steps to Mine Your Archive Becky offers actionable advice for gathering your existing content: compile everything in one place, block out time to review your own social media, reread old journals, and capture significant paragraphs that apply to your current project. Whether you use Scrivener, Word docs, or simple folders, having your research organized in one space helps your brain stay focused. A Word of Encouragement If you're feeling anxious about writing your book (even if it's not about anxiety!), this conversation will remind you that God has been preparing you all along. The content you've created, the stories you've told, and the insights you've gathered are not random—they're the ingredients for something beautiful.

This episode was original published December 20, 2021 (Episode 275).Have you ever wondered how to become a better writer? Today, Kathi Lipp and Kathleen Kerr, an editor and speaker, tackle this important question by breaking down a frequent lie that writers believe about being a writer and replacing it with applicable strategies for how to strengthen your writing knowledge and practice.In this episode, Kathi and Kathleen discuss:How to be a great student of writing.Their favorite fiction and nonfiction books.Why you need to learn the rules of writing before you break them.Listen in and learn how to improve your writing skills before the new year begins.

Every agent and publisher will tell you the same thing: your email subscribers are gold. But what if you're starting from absolute zero? What if not even your mom has signed up yet? In this practical episode, Kathi Lipp and Roger Lipp break down the essentials of building an email list that actually serves your readers—and your writing career. Whether you're trying to figure out which tool to use or wondering what kind of freebie to offer, this conversation will help you take your first confident steps. What You'll Discover in This Episode Why your email list is your "owned audience" while social media is just rented space The one sentence you need to complete before launching your newsletter Why chunky lead magnets are out and simple, authentic freebies are in How to choose the right email tool when you're just getting started Low-tech and high-tech ways to collect email addresses What belongs on your landing page to convert visitors into subscribers Why your first 100 subscribers are the hardest—and what to do about it Key Takeaways Your newsletter is a relationship, not a broadcast. Think of each subscriber as a one-on-one conversation rather than a crowd you're shouting at. People are thirsty for authentic connection. Match your lead magnet to your newsletter. Whatever you offer to get someone on your list should feel like a natural preview of what they'll receive each week. No bait and switch. Start simple. You don't need fancy tools to begin. A Google spreadsheet and a sign-up sheet at your next speaking event can get you started while you figure out what your newsletter is really for. Put your sign-up everywhere. Your website, social media, podcast—anywhere you already show up, make it obvious how people can join your list. If you've been putting off starting your email list because it feels too complicated or too techie, this episode will give you the permission and the practical steps to just begin.

In this episode of Writing at the Red House, Kathi talks with writer and creator Cheri Fletcher about building a beautiful, useful tool for grievers: the Beyond I Don’t Know What to Say grief communication cards. If you’ve felt stuck because “real writers write books,” this conversation opens the door to another path—creating a product your audience can hold, use, and share. Listeners will hear:Why a card deck sometimes serves your reader better than a book—and how to know the difference.How Cheri went from index cards at the family table to a polished, giftable product.Practical nuts-and-bolts: prototyping, choosing a printer, minimum order quantities, cost ranges, timelines, and packaging.Tender, ready-to-use language for entering a griever’s world without fear.How churches and small groups are using the cards (including Blue Christmas services), plus a simple way friends can “bridge the gap” when they don’t know what to say. If you want to serve your people with something they’ll actually use—and do it with excellence—this episode gives you both the heart and the how.

We hope you will enjoy this replay of a previously published episode (Episode 340).In this behind-the-scenes conversation, Kathi Lipp welcomes Crystal Paine (MoneySavingMom) to share the real process behind her new book, The Time-Saving Mom. If your writing dreams feel squeezed by real life—kids, work, and a calendar that won’t quit—Crystal’s story offers a practical path forward. Listeners will hear how she wrote in 5–15 minute bursts, built a simple feedback loop with trusted voices, and partnered with her editor and a paid reader team to strengthen the message before it ever went to press. Crystal also unpacks a hard-won lesson: why your book title must signal “I need that” in one glance—and how that shift impacted sales. You’ll walk away with doable strategies to: use small pockets of time to make big writing progress, invite feedback early (without derailing your momentum), and choose a title/cover that serves your reader and your marketing. For every writer who’s tempted to say “I don’t have time,” this episode reframes the work: choose to use time differently and let your systems carry you through seasons of upheaval.

In this hands-on episode, Kathi Lipp invites listeners into a live title lab—no hype, just practical help. With guest creators Tenneil Register and Roger Lipp, Kathi models how to use AI as a brainstorming partner (not a writer) to craft clear, connected, curiosity-building titles for blogs, series, pitches, and books.Listeners will hear:A simple prompt that keeps your unique voice while getting better title ideas fast.The 3 Cs filter (clarity, connection, curiosity) applied in real time.How to iterate: cherry-picking words, combining phrases, and refining subtitles.Faith-adjacent, audience-first language that invites readers in—without the hype.Kathi's practical "title frames" and the all-important ear test.Tenneil shares a live case study from her "Christmas through the decades" content, and Kathi workshop-tests options for her next decluttering book (for readers low on money, energy, emotional bandwidth, or time). Plus, Roger shows how AI can speed up production without losing the human touch.If you want faster, stronger titles that truly serve your reader, press play and follow along with the prompt in the show notes.Resources Mentioned in This EpisodeThe Title Editor PromptCopy and customize this prompt to generate titles in your unique voice:Act as a title editor for [insert your working title]. Keep [your name]'s voice [describe your voice - e.g., warm, practical, faith-adjacent, edgy, academic]. [Special instructions - e.g., no hype, avoid clichés, keep it under 6 words] We need: - An audience felt need - An outcome promise Non-negotiables: [anything that MUST be included] Banned word list: [words to avoid, if any] Give me titles only, no explanations.Example from the episode: "Act as a title editor for 'What I Learned About Christmas Through the Decades.' Keep Tenneil's voice warm, practical, faith-adjacent. No hype. We need an audience felt need and an outcome promise. Titles only, no explanations."The 5 Title Frames for Manual TweakingUse these elements to strengthen your titles—with or without AI:Specific Noun over general nounExample: "paper piles" vs. "clutter" | "decision fatigue" vs. "overwhelmed"Power VerbExamples: cut, tame, build, reclaim, map, create, unwrapConcrete FrameExamples: in 15 minutes, 40 days, this weekend, for caregivers, when you're low on energyContrastExample: from messy to managed, what we lost and what we foundThe Ear TestSay it out loud repeatedly. If it's hard to say or sounds awkward, keep refining.The 3 Cs FilterRate every title option on these three criteria:Clarity – Is it instantly understandable?Connection – Does it speak to a felt need?Curiosity – Does it make you lean in?Pro tip: For books, prioritize clarity. For articles and blog posts, lean into curiosity.Bonus Tips from the EpisodeAI is a collaborator, not the creator. You guide, iterate, and cherry-pick.Don't settle for the first batch—keep refining by telling AI what you like and don't like.Words you don't use for the title can become subtitles, chapter titles, or marketing copy.If working with a traditional publisher, confirm title choices align with their publication standards.

In this fast, practical episode, Kathi Lipp, Tenneil Register, and Roger Lipp help writers move from clever to clear with a simple three-filter system for titles: clarity, connection, and curiosity. If your titles feel “off,” confusing, or too cute, this conversation shows you how to refine them so your audience instantly knows what they’ll get—and wants to click. Listeners will hear how to use AI as a brainstorm partner (not a voice thief) and how to validate your ideas with real humans through Instagram Stories polls, simple Facebook “this or that” posts, and A/B testing. They also unpack a real example (hello, chambray!) to show how a hook can derail your episode if it doesn’t reflect the whole message. You’ll leave with a repeatable process: run every title through clarity, connection, and curiosity; test it with your people; and choose one clear promise. Plus, get ready—next week they’ll invite you to share your title for feedback inside the free Writing at the Red House Facebook group.

In this episode of Writing at the Red House, Kathi Lipp teams up with Roger Lipp and Tenneil Register to help listeners brainstorm titles, hooks, and lead-ins that feel like an invitation—not clickbait. They unpack why the reader’s felt need must be your filter, how to guide AI with your actual voice and audience avatar, and how to avoid those cheesy, off-brand suggestions that make your people cringe. Listeners will learn: How to articulate your audience’s felt need so titles land instantly What to feed AI (your voice and your avatar) to get better ideas, faster A simple Venn diagram approach—audience + voice + information—to keep titles on target Why “classy, not clickbait” builds trust (and clicks) A short homework assignment to prep for next week’s on-air title workshop Perfect for overwhelmed writers juggling life and deadlines, this conversation gives you practical steps to move from bland to brilliant—without losing your voice or your values. Stick around for the homework so you’re ready for next week’s “Magic Formula of Threes” title sprint.

Do you ever wonder if you’re being ruthlessly honest in your writing? This is the topic of today’s episode. Kathi is back with Jennifer Dukes Lee to discuss not only why you need to be ruthlessly honest in your writing but also how that impacts you and your readers.Listen in and learn:What ruthless truth-telling is.Why ruthless truth-telling is so important.How to give yourself permission to be honest.

Do you want to write a book, devotional, or blog but are having a hard time getting the words written? Today Kathi and Jennifer share several ways to put your thoughts on paper and create something beautiful.Listen in and learn:How to think of deep questions to ask yourself.Why you should write down your thoughts.How to stay narrowly focused.It’s easy to get stuck with writer’s block if we don’t take the necessary steps. Tune in next week for another conversation between Kathi and Jennifer.Kathi’s new book, Accidental Homesteader, came out August 29th.Inside Scoop: Sign up for the Writing Tips Newsletter at Writing at the Red House to get Kathi’s 7 Day Platform Plan for free.

In this listener-focused follow-up on DIY events, Kathi Lipp and guest Tenneil Register break down how to confidently plan and host your own gathering—without burning out or breaking the bank. If you’ve been waiting for an invitation, this episode hands you a plan. Listeners will learn:A simple 90-minute run-of-show (welcome, teaching, reflection, Q&A) that keeps people engaged.How to choose dates, venues (from cozy coffee shops to church basements), and a smart, speaker-first budget.Why your event promise should drive your schedule and your marketing.How to build partnerships (coffee shops, bookstores, churches) that add credibility and community.An 8-week timeline to launch: from graphics and event pages to volunteers, tech checks, and promotion.Practical promotion that works: warm audience first, ready-made posts for partners, and why posters still matter.Perfect for writers and speakers who want to build community, grow an email list, and deliver a meaningful experience—without waiting for someone else to make the magic happen.

In this episode, Kathi Lipp and guest Tenneil Register get practical about planning in-person events that actually serve your audience. Using the 3 P’s—Purpose, People, Promise—they show you how to design gatherings that create belonging, offer real results, and gently grow sales at your book table. Listeners will hear:How to start with the feeling and promise your event delivers—before you pick the date or venue - Ways to serve (not sell) at your book table, including simple bundles and integrity-first recommendationsReal-world event formats for writers and speakers: launch parties, workshops, and retreatsIdeas for specialized ministry events like grief workshops during the holidaysA “scrappy to sacred” story of launching events with limited space and budget—and why that’s more than enoughIf you’ve wanted to connect your message to people in real life—but felt overwhelmed or unsure where to start—this conversation will help you plan an event that’s doable, meaningful, and built around the people you’re called to serve. Stay tuned for next week’s nuts-and-bolts episode on creating your minimum viable event.

In this episode of Writing at the Red House, Kathi Lipp sits down with author (and soon-to-be Dr.) Susy Flory to unpack how a quiet, three-word Facebook post—“Jesus was non-violent”—became a 30-day conversation and, ultimately, a coauthored book with pastor Scott Johanningsmeier, published by Kregel. If you’re a writer who wants to test ideas without adding to the online noise, this story offers a practical, hope-filled roadmap. Listeners will hear how Susy used micro-posts to invite gentle dialogue, watched for authentic reader engagement, and let the idea simmer before shaping it into a proposal—despite industry hurdles like not being a megachurch pastor and pitching a compilation. You’ll learn how to create safer spaces for thoughtful discussion, discern when an idea has legs, and embrace unexpected partners and publishers who truly “get” your project. If you’ve ever wondered whether that one post might be the seed of your next book, this episode will help you listen to your readers—and to the Spirit—as you write.

Ever wondered why some writers walk away from collaborative writing or how to spot the green lights (and red flags) in a writing partnership? In this honest and hope-filled conversation, Kathi Lipp and bestselling co-author Susy Flory dive deep into the world of Christian collaborative writing. You’ll hear Susy’s experiences working with celebrities, having books turned into movies, and why she insists on getting her name on the cover. Listeners will learn practical tips for building trust, having hard conversations, and protecting their voice and values—plus the warning signs that signal when a partnership is heading off track. If you’re navigating your own writing journey and long for healthy, faith-based collaboration, this episode is packed with wisdom, relatable stories, and encouragement to tell your unique God-story. Plus, get the scoop on the upcoming West Coast Christian Writers Conference and why Susy and Kathi insist you belong there!

Are you feeling overwhelmed by the tech side of newsletters? In this episode of Writing at the Red House, Kathi Lipp returns with guests Roger Lipp and Tenneil Register to demystify email marketing for Christian writers. If you’ve ever wished you could focus on your words instead of wrestling with automation, subject lines, or newsletter templates, you’ll find hope, plenty of laughs, and concrete tools here.  Together, the trio shows how to harness AI for subject lines and structure, why templates keep things simple (and readers coming back), and the heart-centered reasons every busy writer should keep reaching out—even if it’s just once a month. Plus, discover Roger’s secrets for using platforms like MailerLite, Mailchimp, and ConvertKit, and hear Tenneil’s wisdom on showing up authentically (and why your readers would rather see your dog than a new color scheme). Access this episode's complete show notes and resource links here.

In this episode of the Writing at the Red House Podcast, Kathi Lipp is joined by Tenneil Register and Roger Lipp to tackle one of the most overwhelming aspects of writer marketing: the author newsletter. If you’ve ever felt like your newsletter is a monster lurking in your inbox, you’re not alone! This episode offers refreshingly simple, faith-centered strategies to make your email communication the coziest, most authentic corner of your writing business.  Listeners will discover: - Why newsletters matter more than social media in today’s publishing world - Easy-to-follow frameworks for consistent, repeatable newsletters—even if you’re just starting out - How to harness AI tools (without letting them take over your creativity!) - Design tips for non-creatives using platforms like Canva - Repurposing your best writing—so you never start from scratch  Whether you’ve been putting off your first newsletter for years or want to streamline what you’re already doing, this episode serves up step-by-step encouragement, practical wisdom, and just a dash of Kathi’s signature humor (plus a recipe tip or two!).  Access this episode's complete show notes and resource links here.

In this timely episode of the Writing at the Red House podcast, Kathi Lipp is joined by Tenneil Register and Roger Lipp for a down-to-earth conversation about integrating AI into your creative and professional life—without sacrificing authenticity, ethics, or your God-given voice.   Feeling torn between harnessing new tech and protecting your unique creativity? You’re not alone! Kathi, Tenneil, and Roger share their real boundaries (and breakthroughs), including:  - Where to draw the ethical line with AI - Practical examples of how (and how NOT) to use AI in outlining, editing, blog writing, devotional content, and sales copy - Why your originality is irreplaceable—and how to tell when AI helps or hinders - How writers can use AI to handle “the drudgery” while preserving the sacred heart of their message   If you’re a Christian writer or creative wondering where AI fits (and where it doesn’t), don’t miss this honest, grace-filled chat. Plus, discover listener stories and contribute your experience—email info@kathilipp.com!   Access this episode's complete show notes and resource links here.