The Write2Ignite Podcast

They say never meet your heroes. But I made an exception. Bob Smiley has been making me laugh since I was a kid reading the Clubhouse Magazine. I’ve seen almost every standup special he’s made. But when I read Average Boy’s Above Average Year, I became an even bigger fan. Bob Smiley and Focus on the Family have created a brand that has exploded recently. Average Boy books, articles, and an award-winning podcast. Bob has seen a gradual change, as more families come to his comedy shows because they are Average Boy fans. In this episode, Brenda and I ask Bob questions about comedy, the writing process, and his super-secret trick to get into the mind of a 12-year-old boy. If you find my laugh annoying, I apologize. It’s in this episode a lot!

As a fourth-generation author, Daniel Blackaby knows a thing or two about legacy. His grandfather wrote the impactful book “Experiencing God.” Every Christmas break, Daniel re-reads the Lord of the Rings trilogy. Legacy and cultural impact are always on Daniel’s mind. Which is why he launched his website “The Collision.org” which features articles and podcast episodes about how to engage with pop culture from a Biblical perspective. On this month's episode, Brenda and I got to sit down with Daniel and talk about his books, why Christians struggle to embrace fantasy, and why we must do more than just criticize culture: we must contribute. If you want to check out other episodes, just click here. You can listen to the whole conversation here, or on Spotify, Apple, or Amazon Music.

To enter the giveaway, head on over to Write2Ignite.com and comment on this blog post:Fantasy has the power to change someone. When C.S. Lewis read Phantastes by George MacDonald, he said it “baptized his imagination.” For Emily Golus, Vindor helped her with her anxiety. Now, the mother of two has three books set in the land of Vindor, and she’s hoping to write more.On this month’s episode, Brenda and I got to ask Emily all the questions about fantasy: how do you build a story world? How do you keep your world fresh and original? And most importantly, do Centaurs brush their teeth? Listen to this wide-ranging conversation as we tackle fantasy, theology, and everything in between.And if you want to check out other episodes, just click here. You’ll want to keep reading to find more resources below and how to enter the giveaway! You can listen to the whole conversation here, or on Spotify, Apple, or Amazon Music.

When her mother retired and started a raspberry farm, Donna Thornton found her hundred-acre wood. Starting with a baby donkey named Druplet, Donna wrote a picture book as a gift for her mother. This led to a publishing contract, another picture book, and another. Now, Donna is retired and is setting the personal goal of a book a year.On this month’s episode, learn about the art of doing local events. From how to setup your table, to helping out nonprofit organizations through your book events, Donna will teach you the power of pouring into your local community.And if you want to check out other episodes, just click here. You’ll want to keep reading to find more resources below and how to enter the giveaway! You can listen to the whole conversation here, or on Spotify, Apple, or Amazon Music.Donna’s local artist: Kay Rugh https://www.facebook.com/iHeartRughArtThe author that Donna is loving right now: Theo of Golden by Allen Levi https://www.allenlevi.com/the-bookThe non profits and churches Donna does signings with are:Brookgreen GardensKnights of ColumbusFriends of the Waccamaw LibraryPrecious Blood of Christ Catholic ChurchThe Kiwanis Club of Pawleys Island, SCFriends of the Waccamaw LibraryPawleys Island Christian AcademyFirst Presbyterian Church of Myrtle Beach

Since 2009, Anna Raats has worked for Ambassador International. From designing the interiors of books, to becoming the Chief Operating Officer of the publishing company, Anna knows a thing or two about publishing books. On this month’s episode, Brenda and I sit down and ask her the burning questions on every writer’s mind. From how many copies a first time author normally sells, to how many social media followers is enough. And in the meantime, you’ll meet one of the nicest people in the publishing world.Anna has been gracious enough to offer a $25 gift card to Ambassador International’s retail store as the giveaway. Here is how you enter: email us at [email protected]

Introducing…When Cindy Lynn Sawyer wrote The Wonder of Under, shestopped short of hiring an illustrator. After all, the cost of hiring someoneto illustrate your picture book is the most expensive part of self-publishing. Soyou can imagine her surprise when she opened her birthday gift to find a fullyillustrated version of the Wonder of Under! Get ready to laugh and learnon this month’s podcast, as Cindy offers her insights into the world ofself-publishing picture books, where to market them, and how figuring out astory is like taking a laxative. The podcastYou can listen to the whole conversation on Spotify, Apple, or Amazon Music. If you want to win a copy of The Wonder of Under, and Remmy’sSticky Situation, here is how you enter: email us at [email protected], you can comment on this blog post.You can purchase Cindy’s books here: https://www.designed2glow.com/books.html Cindy’s Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/KidLitWriter/Instagram: @designed2glowhttps://jasminewall.com/https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rfbb4yRBH64https://www.erinhealyedits.com/author-services Authors Cindy loves:Tina ChoGlenys NellistAnnette Whipple

Jarm Del Boccio firmly believes in telling children stories that deal with trials and hardship. But never brutality. In her Middle Grade novel “The Heart Changer” she tells a story based on the Biblical account in 2nd Kings 5 of Naaman the Leper. Through her research, she discovered some fascinating aspects of Syrian life, and what it must have been like for the captive girl from Israel. Whether you call it “Bible Fiction” or “Extra Biblical” or just plain “Historical Fiction” this episode is chock full of helpful materials. Listen to the episode below or wherever you get your podcasts. And if you want to check our other episodes, just click here. And you’ll want to keep reading to find more resources below and to enter the giveaway!Jarm was gracious enough to offer a giveaway of The Heart Changer. If you want to enter, email us at  [email protected], you can comment on this episode.JARM DEL BOCCIO, AUTHOR AND BOOK COACH - The Heart ChangerSUBSCRIBE - JARM DEL BOCCIO, AUTHOR AND BOOK COACHHeart Resources - JARM DEL BOCCIO, AUTHOR AND BOOK COACHThen and Now BibleOlive Tree Bible SoftwareAtlas of the Biblical WorldHalley’s Bible HandbookNKJV Cultural Backgrounds Study BibleMoody Bible CommentaryArchaeological Study BibleThe New Manners and Customs of the BibleHolman Bible Atlas

When Brenda Covert took one of our Master Classes taught by Laura Sassi, she immediately had the idea for Meanwhile, Back at the Manger. A few years later, she finally has a picture book to call her own. A fun re-telling of the birth of Jesus, Meanwhile, Back at the Manger tells the story of Thomas: a fictional stable boy who decides to go fishing on a very special night. He almost misses the most important moment in human history! While she is usually the co-host of the Write2Ignite Podcast, today, Brenda is the guest! She details her writing journey, why she loves Christmas so much, and tips on when to know if you have a winning picture book!Be ready to laugh, learn, and get into the Christmas mood early! If you want to win a free edit of one picture book manuscript, here is how you enter: email us at [email protected], you can comment on this blog post.You can order Meanwhile, Back at the Manger on Amazon, Ambassador International, or other book stores.Follow Brenda on Instagram, Facebook, her blog, X, or her website.

When Lori Z. Scott won the Christy Award in the Young Adultcategory, she hadn’t prepared a speech. She never thought she would win, and she almost didn’t go to the ceremony. But this wasn’t unusual, because Lori Z. Scott never wanted to write Offsides in the first place. When it was suggested that she use the soccer themed book to tackle human trafficking, Lori rejected the idea. But soon, the suggestion became more of a mandate from God.Lori was left with no choice—she had to write Offsides. What happened next, left her forever changed. You can listento the whole conversation here, or on Spotify, Apple, or Amazon Music. I have to warn you, this is a heavy episode. Little ears may want to steer clear.However, for the writer, Lori offers priceless advice and tips on how to handle tough subjects, when to include God in your plans, and what kind of feedback fromreaders is the best.  If you want to win a copy of Offsides here is how youenter: email us at [email protected], you can comment on this blog post.Be sure to follow Lori Z. Scott on Instagram and FacebookFor more information on Human Trafficking, please visit https://www.justice.gov/humantrafficking/resources

For every general market book written by Carolyn Bennett Fraiser, there is a companion book in the educational market. Was this an accident, or God’s plan? In this episode, I sit down with Carolyn to discuss what the educational market is, and how to break into it. From helpful resources like Evelyn Christensen’s list of educational publishing houses, to the Writing Barn, to the lessons Carolyn has learned along the way, you have to listen to this episode. We even get to talk a little bit about homesteading! If you want a chance to win “21 Days of Grace” be sure to send us an email at [email protected] orcomment on this blog post.Moon Tree: https://www.amazon.com/Moon-Tree-Story-One-Extraordinary/dp/1478875984/ref=sr_1_1?crid=1KCX134KE0M0J&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.TKylArDaN-P5qeuEaS7fFw.GDvmyX7EdxTYxx3IT5iPOF3aPVb66SM_7QJpEuL53aA&dib_tag=se&keywords=carolyn+bennett+frasier&qid=1757017317&sprefix=carolyn+bennett+fraiser%2Caps%2C277&sr=8-1M is for Mason Jar: https://www.amazon.com/M-Mason-Jar-Homesteading-Alphabet/dp/1641709669/ref=tmm_hrd_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&dib_tag=AUTHOR&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.Rd0LeBgLPaq9ou4yqi3JQRIj_iznm4b6wox2_vDzmayeynhZ8ig2Df1rAmCbF50A51Yy0hvqRDUt8HA6OpNtWPFj9A7PvZEMIZMR7vGKOkjJpogJPXu4pUnfn7kg9RHwOWia7G-DUnrB4234m1KJvg.ONJbk8RGUCZ_Wa1A0zvD3lLEIXRXK2de0uOOcWFzUr821 Days of Grace: https://www.amazon.com/Days-Grace-Celebrate-Unconditional-Devotional-ebook/dp/B00UVMXKB8?ref_=ast_author_dp_rw&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.Rd0LeBgLPaq9ou4yqi3JQRIj_iznm4b6wox2_vDzmayeynhZ8ig2Df1rAmCbF50A51Yy0hvqRDUt8HA6OpNtWPFj9A7PvZEMIZMR7vGKOkjJpogJPXu4pUnfn7kg9RHwOWia7G-DUnrB4234m1KJvg.ONJbk8RGUCZ_Wa1A0zvD3lLEIXRXK2de0uOOcWFzUr8&dib_tag=AUTHORCarolyn’s Website: https://carolynbfraiser.com/Evelyn’s list: http://www.evelynchristensen.com/markets.htmlhttps://write2ignite.com/2025/08/28/author-interview-with-carolyn-bennett-fraiser-by-sue-irwin/https://thewritingbarn.com/https://www.amazon.com/Writing-Educational-Market-Informational-Childrens/dp/1500463116 Music:In the FieldIn The Field by Audionautix islicensed under a CreativeCommons Attribution 4.0 license.https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ Artist: http://audionautix.com/

If anyone was qualified to write stories for children, it would be Laura Sassi. She has worn many hats through the years: a mother, a homeschooler, a teacher, and a children’s ministry director. She also wore a special hat for our podcast episode! With over ten books to her name, Laura’s newest picture book, Pumpkin Day for Boo and Belle (with a special giveaway below) is now available. In this episode, Laura offers practical advice on the importance of finding an agent, how to make sure a writing opportunity isn’t a scam, and what author events mean to both the author and children. But most of all, it is impossible to listen to this episode without smiling. Just like Laura’s writing, she is a delight.If you want to enter the giveaway for Pumpkin Day for Boo and Belle, send us an email to [email protected] comment on this blog post. Thanks for listening!Links:https://twitter.com/laurasassitaleshttps://www.instagram.com/laurasassitales/https://www.facebook.com/LauraSassiTaleswww.laurasassitales.wordpress.com.https://writerbeware.blog/https://www.prospectagency.com/https://www.scbwi.org/https://www.rebeccajgomez.com/https://pumpkinday.com/Music:In the FieldIn The Field by Audionautix is licensed under a CreativeCommons Attribution 4.0 license. https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ Artist: http://audionautix.com/

For 18 years, Carol Baldwin worked on a historical YA noveltitled “Half-Truths.” Reading books, interviewing people, and visiting locations, Carol poured her heart and soul into telling the story of an unlikely relationship between two girls in 1950 North Carolina. One white, one black.Now that the book has been published, Carol offers someinsights on how to persevere, what she learned over the years, and how muchresearch it takes to bring a moment in history to life. Stay tuned to the endof the episode, to learn how to win a copy of Half-Truths!Books that Carol read: The color of Compromise: The Truth about the American Church’s Complicity inRacism by Jemar Tisby.Virus of Fear by W. Horace CarterBlue Willow by Doris Gates Carol’s Socials:https://www.pinterest.com/carolannbaldwin/_saved/https://carolbaldwinbooks.com/?s=historical+fictionhttps://www.facebook.com/authorCarolBaldwinhttps://www.instagram.com/carolbaldwin121/https://x.com/CBaldwinAuthorhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/carol-baldwin-0b823715/ To enter the giveaway: email a screenshot of your review ofthe podcast to [email protected]   Music:In the FieldIn The Field by Audionautix is licensed under a CreativeCommons Attribution 4.0 license. https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ Artist: http://audionautix.com/

In the inaugural episode, Kyle Morgan and Brenda Covert satdown with bestselling author Jenny L. Cote to discuss marketing, historical fiction, and letting God do above and beyond all that we ask or think. We also hear about Jenny’s criminal past when investigating historical places. To see Patrick Henry’s chair, click here:https://www.epicorderoftheseven.net/the-voice Jenny’s podcast: https://open.spotify.com/show/74CiBeAx2oTuzkWsKyH0OL?si=24a8f95bf1124665 Jenny’s social:https://www.facebook.com/jennylcote#https://www.instagram.com/jennyl.cote/ To enter the giveaway: email a screenshot of your review ofthe podcast to [email protected]  Music:In the FieldIn The Field by Audionautix is licensed under a CreativeCommons Attribution 4.0 license. https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ Artist: http://audionautix.com/

Do you feel a calling to write powerful, Christ-centered stories for children? Stories that inspire, heal, and draw young hearts closer to God?Write2Ignite is launching a Podcast.We’re living in a time when anxiety among children is rising, and literacy rates are declining. A time when the publishing business is becoming more secular, and families are becoming more religious.At Write2Ignite, we believe God is raising up a new generation of Christian authors— and you could be one of them.The market is ready. The need is urgent.And a new wave of Christian children's literature is about to make an impact.Each episode, we’ll have amazing conversations with amazing Christian authors—sharing their journeys, wisdom, and real-world advice on writing, publishing, and living out your mission.Whether you're a seasoned writer or just getting started, if your heart burns to tell stories that point young readers to Christ, this is your space.Subscribe now. Episode 1 drops soon. Join us, and become part of a movement that’s igniting children’s hearts — one page at a time.Music:In the FieldIn The Field by Audionautix is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 license. https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/Artist: http://audionautix.com/