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.
In this eye-opening episode of Writing at the Red House, Kathi Lipp and branding expert Tenneil Register return to tackle one of the most misunderstood aspects of author branding: color. If you’ve ever struggled to pick a color palette that feels like "you," or worried that your colors might actually be confusing your readers, you’re not alone. Kathi shares her own branding mishaps (including a memorable tea-party disaster), and Tenneil breaks down what color psychology really means for writers who want their brand to feel authentic, inviting, and memorable. You’ll get actionable advice on: - How to identify colors that match the true feeling of your message and audience needs - Why trendy palettes might be sabotaging your brand—and what to do instead - How to avoid classic color combo fails (hint: not every red and gold pairing is inspired!) - Which tools—like Canva and Lightroom—can make branding easier, even if you’re a design novice - Where to find inspiration and ready-to-use resources to simplify the design process Plus, you’ll hear real talk about balancing cozy vibes, bold statements, and faith-driven messages, all through the power of color. Access this episode's complete show notes and resource links here.
If the words 'branding' and 'fonts' make your brain hurt, you're not alone! In this down-to-earth episode of Writing at the Red House, Kathi Lipp teams up with brand manager Tenneil Register to crack open the secrets of authentic author branding—without the overwhelm. Kathi and Tenneil share hilarious failures, real-life lessons, and practical advice on picking brand colors and fonts that reflect your unique God-given message, not just what's trendy or cute (we see you, Pepto-pink checkerboards). Whether you're just starting your writing journey or realizing it's time to refresh your look, you'll learn the two powerful questions every writer needs to ask before choosing brand colors, why it's okay if you wear the same shirt for every author photo (hello, chambray!), and what makes a font family work. No design degree required—just a willingness to lean into your story, your faith, and a bit of fun! Plus: discover how your branding can make writing life (and laundry!) a whole lot easier. Check out the episode for: - How to balance authenticity and longevity in your author brand - Tips for picking a color palette that feels like YOU - Font choices that actually serve your readers (and sanity) - The mindset shift every multi-tasking writer needs for branding confidence Tune in and take your next faithful (and practical) step towards a brand that lasts! Access this episode's complete show notes and resource links here.
If you’ve ever stared at your phone and said, “I’ve got nothing left to share…and I might just delete every app,” this episode was made for you. Kathi Lipp and social media cheerleader Tenneil Register peel back the curtain on social media burnout, sharing real-life slumps, perfectionism paralysis, and the constant changes that leave even seasoned content creators feeling stuck. Listeners will discover the unmistakable signs of burnout, practical boundaries for when consuming overtakes creating, and honest conversation about finding your social media spark again (spoiler: it’s not about chasing the algorithm—it’s about connection). Learn how batching content, scheduling with purpose, and repurposing old favorites can help relieve the overwhelm and keep your community engaged without sacrificing your own joy or sanity! Tune in for encouragement, relatability, and a roadmap back to authentic, sustainable engagement. You’ll find actionable steps, laughter, and a reminder that you’re not alone on the wild ride of social media ministry. Access this episode's complete show notes and resource links here.
In this episode of the Writing at the Red House podcast, Kathi Lipp invites New York Times bestseller and memoir expert Susy Flory to explore the essential habits and decisions that can transform your writing from a hobby to a professional pursuit. Whether you're a full-time worker or navigating life’s complexities, Susy offers practical advice to help you carve out time for writing and make wise investments in your career. Dive into their conversation about personal and professional growth, writing accountability, and finding the right support systems, including writer's groups and mentorship programs. Access this episode's complete show notes and resource links here.
Join Kathi Lipp and New York Times bestseller Susy Flory as they dive into transforming your writing passion into a professional career. They unravel the myths surrounding the writing world, including the necessity of inspiration and the misconception of writing for love versus business. Discover the power of business plans, the importance of planning with numbers, and the balance between passion projects and profitable writing endeavors. Susy's experiences from café business plan scribbles to creating her writing life visuals on Canva will inspire you to rethink your approach to writing. Whether you're at the start of your writing journey or looking to professionalize your craft, this conversation guides you through understanding the complexities of a sustainable writing career. Dive in and uncover the actionable steps to success. Access this episode's complete show notes and resource links here.
Why Every Writer Needs to Embrace Video (Even If It Feels Scary) In this continuation of our social media series, Kathi Lipp and brand manager Tenneil Register tackle the intimidating world of video content creation. If you're a writer who feels overwhelmed by the thought of being on camera, this episode is designed specifically for you. Many writers feel like they signed up to write, not to become movie producers. But here's the reality: video content is what audiences are consuming, and it's what social media algorithms prioritize. The good news? You don't need to be Steven Spielberg to create content that connects. In this episode, you'll discover: Why video matters more than you might think for building your platform The magic number for video length that works for beginners Simple lighting and sound solutions that won't break the bank How to talk to your camera like you're chatting with your best friend Why consistency beats viral content every single time Practical editing tools that work for busy writers How to boost your creativity when you're feeling stuck Tenneil shares practical wisdom about focusing on what you want your viewer to feel rather than see, and Kathi opens up about her own journey from video-phobic to consistently posting content. They'll help you understand that this is challenging for everyone – even those who seem naturally gifted on camera. Whether you're building your author platform, growing your ministry, or simply wanting to connect more authentically with your audience, this episode provides the encouragement and practical steps you need to get started. Access this episode's complete show notes and resource links here.
Many writers feel overwhelmed by the visual demands of social media marketing. In this practical episode, Kathi Lipp sits down with Tenneil Register, her social media and branding expert, to tackle the challenges writers face when creating visual content for their platforms. If you've ever felt frustrated by the need to be "on camera" when you just signed up to be a writer, this episode is for you. Tenneil and Kathi share honest insights about overcoming camera discomfort while providing actionable tips for creating compelling visual content that actually tells your story. In this episode, you'll discover: Why visual storytelling matters more than just "showing off" on social media Practical preparation tips for photo shoots (including the three-outfit rule) Lighting techniques that work in your home or outdoors Composition basics like the rule of thirds Helpful apps and editing tools to enhance your photos How to find your comfort zone and build confidence on camera Why the algorithm can actually help you find your right people Whether you're building your author platform or growing your writing business, this episode provides the encouragement and practical strategies you need to create authentic visual content without the overwhelm. Resources Mentioned: Erin Blackwell's Instagram for posing tips Additional resources and links will be provided in the full show notes Coming Next Week: Part two of this visual storytelling series, focusing on video content for social media. Access this episode's complete show notes and resource links here.
Lisa Welch
I love what you both shared about specifying my ministry. However, I feel stuck because last editor I spoke with told me my niche was too specific. the editor before that said my niche wasn't a large enough group of people to matter. Ouch. is it possible to niche too much? Is that a verb? ;)