Other Professionals
Sandy Austin
Executive Director, B.I.O.N.I.C.
Believe It Or Not I Care
Author, International Speaker
Sandy is an expert in helping kids, families, and schools cope with trauma. As a professional school counselor for 24 years, Sandy counseled students in the aftermath of four school shootings, plus four suicides in eight months at a fifth school.
Now as the Executive Director of the nonprofit B.I.O.N.I.C. Team (Believe It Or Not I Care) for 20 years, Sandy has been empowering kids worldwide to reach out to struggling peers to let them know they are seen, they matter, and they are not alone in order to create a caring culture and prevent bullying and suicides. B.I.O.N.I.C. has spread worldwide into elementary schools, colleges, churches, and businesses too.
Sandy also taught ten years in Christian schools and public schools, served as the State Coordinator for the Girls and Women’s Program for the AZ Fellowship of Christian Athletes, and was a part-time Youth Director in two churches. Sandy is an international speaker. She has written three books, many articles, and has won two Lifetime Achievement Awards.
Special – Thursday, 7:00 pm – B.I.O.N.I.C
Round Table – Friday, 6:30 – 6:55 – Sandy will be available to answer questions and chat about B.I.O.N.I.C.! Her love and passion for helping kids and families survive trauma is contagious. Maybe you can learn ways you can reach out in your community.
Alice Crider
Author, Editor, Coach
Collaborative Writer
Founder, The InkWell Collective
alicecrider.com
Alice is an author coach, editor, author, and the founder of The InkWell Collective, an online community for authors who are weary of hustling to be seen but still want to make an impact. Since 1998, Alice has worn several hats in traditional book publishing—including editor, literary agent, and director of acquisitions and development. Also, a certified life coach and collaborative writer, Alice teaches writing and editing workshops at writers’ conferences nationally and internationally and coaches individual authors and groups. Alice lives in Colorado where she enjoys hiking, horseback riding, and spending time with her family.
Workshop 4D – Structuring a Nonfiction Manuscript (Friday, 5:15 – 6:05)
For high reader engagement, you need creativity and a solid, accessible structure throughout your book. In this workshop, Alice will share seven essential steps for structuring a nonfiction manuscript for maximum reader appeal. She’ll show you how to start with the reader’s problem, identify key teaching points, and develop clear chapter titles. She’ll teach how to organize your material, incorporate relatable stories, maintain a conversational tone, and determine how many words per chapter to aim for.
Round Table – Saturday, 12:30 – 12:55
Marty Goetz
Modern Day Psalmist
Emmy-nominated Marty Goetz has been called a modern-day psalmist. His songs, drawn from Scripture and set to beautiful melodies, move listeners toward deeper intimacy with God through fresh acoustic and classical arrangements.
Marty’s musical journey began at his Bar Mitzvah in Cleveland, but few could have predicted that years later he would perform at Billy Graham’s Rally in Central Park. Early in his career, Marty sang in clubs and theaters as part of the duo Bert & Marty, and even appeared on Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood. After success in New York’s Catskills circuit, the duo parted ways when Bert became a Christian—prompting Marty to dive deeper into the Bible, initially searching for “loopholes.” Instead, he came to believe that Jesus is the long-awaited Messiah.
Since then, Marty has become a beloved voice in both Messianic and Christian circles, performing with artists like Debby Boone and ministering in churches and ministries across the country, including Church on the Way, Moody Church, Times Square Church, Focus on the Family, Promise Keepers, and the Billy Graham Training Center.
Marty has recorded steadily since 1985. He and his wife, Jennifer, a fellow Jewish believer in Jesus, live near Nashville. Their daughter, Misha—a worship leader and recording artist—lives with her husband and children near Washington, D.C.
Worship with Marty – Wednesday, 7;00 – Marty will be with us live. Before each keynote throughout the rest of the conference, excerpts from his House of Worship will bring us into Yeshua’s presence.
My husband and I worship with Marty and his wife, Jenny, every Tuesday and Friday, 7 pm Central Time, when they are not traveling. Join us on Facebook, YouTube, or Instagram. Their ministry has been life-changing for us.
Joleen Graumann
Developmental Editor
Public Relations Director
Christian Editors Association
Joleen is a passionate developmental editor of Christian fiction who incorporates life coaching skills into her work. She serves as public relations director for the Christian Editors Association and teaches developmental editing at their PEN Institute. A worship leader and Bible study leader, Joleen lives in Mesa, AZ with her husband and four children, enjoying tea and good books.
NEW – Workshop 1J – Read Like an Editor, Revise Like a Pro (Thursday, 2:00 – 2:50)
Stop guessing what’s “wrong” with your drafts. Learn to read your own pages the way an editor does, spotting patterns in pacing, stakes, and character. You’ll leave with a personal self-edit guide tailored to your strengths and blind spots.
Workshop 3C – Inside a Developental Edit – Live Demo (Friday, 2:00 – 2:50)
Do you ever wonder what a developmental editor is seeing when they read your manuscript? Understanding their methods is key to unlocking your editorial letter and manuscript comments. Watch a professional editor think aloud through real pages, diagnosing structure, tension, and character issues in real time. You’ll leave with a repeatable checklist and sharper instincts for spotting what’s actually wrong in your own scenes.
Round Table – Friday, 6:30 – 6:55
Catherine Jacobs
Author, Illustrator
Speaker
Teaching Artist
catherine-jacobs.com
Catherine is a published author and children’s book illustrator and maker. She has illustrated one picture book written by another author and published by 40day Publishing.
Currently, as she is chasing two toddler grandsons in two different states, Catherine is working on her 32-page picture book and a couple pro-life educational products. See godslittleones.com.
Learning Lab – Canva for Authors (Wednesday, 3:45 – 6:00)
A basic intro to Canva – what it is, what it can do, and how it can help authors. How to work with images, text, color, fonts, shapes, backgrounds, layers, and multiple-page documents. How to find and create a folder for your files stored in Canva. How to create and schedule a social media post.
Special – Wednesday, 7:00 pm – God’s Little Ones
Round Table - Thursday, 6:30 – 6:55
Tammy Karasek
Author
The Launch Team Geek
tammykarasek.com
Tammy uses humor and wit to bring joy and hope to every aspect of life. Her past, filled with bullying and criticism from family, drives her passion to encourage and inspire others and show them The Reason to smile. From down and defeated to living a “Tickled Pink” life, she believes there’s always a giggle ready to release!
Tammy writes romance—with a splash of sass. Her book, Launch That Book, released December 2025. She’s also published in several compilations: Sustaining Life’s Victories, The PAC Method for Writers, and Cool-inary Moments. She’s also a regular writing team member for The Write Conversation, Blue Ridge Writer’s Conference Blog, The Write Editing, New Mercies Café, and The Word on Wednesday.
Learning Lab – Launch That Book (Wednesday, 3:45 – 6:00)
Your book is set to publish and you have a date—now what? In this class, I’ll walk you through a timeline for a Launch Team Session. I’ll give you tips to organize the Launch Team which will help you get the buzz started for your upcoming book release. I’ll share details and the documents I use to create and manage a team.
There are different ways teams are run, just as there are different personalities. What I give you is my system. It works! Several of my authors continually end up #1 on the Parable Marketing Booksellers for their launch week. I’ve worked for a couple of multi-published Revell authors for a few years. In 2022, their sister company, Bethany House, had a marketing rep reach out to me to do some of their authors’ launches. Many of my authors are repeat clients.
My way is not the only way, but the teams I’ve managed have provided assistance for successful launches. Let me help reduce your stress and enjoy your book launch. Whether you run a team yourself, or choose to hire a Launch Team Manager, I will give you actions you can do, or at least what to look for when hiring a Launch Team Manager. My goal is to educate, equip, and encourage you and the teams I manage for greater results. You can do this; I believe in you.
Critique Group – Thursday 4:30 – 5:10 – Romance novels
Friday, 4:30 – 5:10 – Humor
Cindy Lambert
Author, Speaker
Collaborative Author
Cindy is an author, collaborative author, and speaker known as a discerning wordsmith and a warm and authentic communicator who moves audiences ever closer to the unconditional love of God. She began her career as the owner of an award-winning Christian bookstore for two decades. She then held leadership roles in editorial and publishing with such companies as Baker Publishing Group, Ingram, Simon & Schuster, and Zondervan, where she served as vice president and associate publisher. As an editor, she worked closely with such authors as Mark Batterson, Max Lucado, Craig Groeshel, Ruth Graham, Kay Warren, Kyle Idleman, Carol Kent, and more. As a writer, she has collaborated on seventeen books, including the bestsellers UnPlanned with Abby Johnson, Unstoppable with Christine Caine, and Forgiving My Father, Forgiving Myself with Ruth Graham. She and her husband, Dave, have six adult children and eleven grandchildren and enjoy launching their kayaks from the dock at their log home in Pentwater, Michigan.
Workshop 1D – Balancing Privacy & Relationships When Writing Real-Life Events (Thursday, 2:00 – 2:50)
We all applaud honestly and transparency in powerful writing, but how do we write of the events in our lives without violating the privacy and trust of others who’ve played some part in our own life stories? Is it possible to find the freedom to tell the truth without destroying relationships, hurting people in our lives, or putting others at risk of public exposure? Yes, it can be done! Discover the defining boundaries, guiding principles, and tested techniques used by successful authors so that your writing can be authentic without damaging the reputations or privacy of the people God has woven into your life story.
Workshop 2D – Using Fiction Techniques to Enhance Your Nonfiction with Dave Lambert (Thursday, 5:15 – 6:05)
Ever notice how your attention suddenly spikes when, during your pastor’s Sunday morning sermon, he begins to tell a story? Admit it—sometimes that story is all you can remember of the sermon! You can give your nonfiction writing that same spike of interest and memorability for your readers by incorporating storytelling techniques. We’ll investigate four of them in this class: character development, dialog, dramatization (writing in scenes), and developing mystery and suspense. Learn how in this class taught by two experienced writers and editors of both fiction and nonfiction.
David Lambert
Author, Editor
Lambert Editorial
David is the author of nearly 20 published books, most recently Saving Baby Holly for Worthy, a division of Hachette. He has received numerous awards for magazine articles and short stories published in such places as Virtue, Moody, Story, Christian Parenting Today, Sweet Sixteen, Decision, Montana Magazine, Campus Life, Outreach, and many other periodicals. David has an M.F.A. in fiction writing from the University of Montana. He has held a variety of positions in publishing, spending 18 years as an acquiring editor at Zondervan, most of that time as executive editor for fiction, and three years as senior fiction editor at Howard Books, a division of Simon & Schuster. David and his wife, Cindy, live in Michigan and work through Lambert Editorial.
Workshop 2D – Using Fiction Techniques to Enhance Your Nonfiction with Cindy Lambert (Thursday, 5:15 – 6:05)
Ever notice how your attention suddenly spikes when, during your pastor’s Sunday morning sermon, he begins to tell a story? Admit it—sometimes that story is all you can remember of the sermon! You can give your nonfiction writing that same spike of interest and memorability for your readers by incorporating storytelling techniques. We’ll investigate four of them in this class: character development, dialog, dramatization (writing in scenes), and developing mystery and suspense. Learn how in this class taught by two experienced writers and editors of both fiction and nonfiction.
Emmanuel Awiri
Audio Producer
Founder, G LIGHTUP 360 Media
Emmanuel Awiri is an audio producer, multi-instrumentalist, and founder of G LIGHTUP 360 Media based in Lagos, Nigeria. With nearly two decades of experience in audio production, he works with writers, podcasters, and Christian communicators to transform their ideas into clear, engaging audio content. Emmanuel specializes in podcast production, audiobook creation, and professional audio editing. His passion is helping authors and speakers amplify their message so it can reach listeners around the world through high-quality sound. Click here to visit him on Instagram.
Round Tables
Starting a Podcast Without Feeling Overwhelmed (Wednesday, 6:30 – 6:55)
Starter Question: What is the simplest and most affordable way for a writer to start a podcast today?
Audiobooks, Voice Recording, and Audio Quality Made Simple (Thursday, 6:30 – 6:55)
Starter Question: How can authors record clear and professional audio even without an expensive studio setup?
Using Digital Platforms to Expand Your Message (Friday, 6:30 – 6:55)
Starter Question: Which digital platforms are best for Christian writers, podcasters, and content creators who want to reach a wider audience?
Beth Patch
Editorial Manager
CBN.com’s Daily Devotionals
Beth has served as the editorial manager of CBN.com’s Daily Devotionals since 2008, working with writers to create content that connects Scripture to everyday life. She is passionate about helping writers draw from their own experiences to bring God’s Word to life through clear, relatable storytelling that encourages readers in their faith. Although CBN is presently not accepting submissions from freelancers, what you learn will strengthen devotions you write for other markets as well as for your blog.
Workshop 2F – Writing Devotionals That Connect (Thursday, 2:00 – 2:50)
What makes a devotional truly resonate with readers—and why do some fall flat? You’ll learn how strong openings, smooth flow, and meaningful connections between story and Scripture shape devotionals that connect. With both editorial insight and a heart for ministry, Beth offers practical guardrails to help you stay on track as you write, along with ideas for building a personal “story library.” She’ll also address how AI can be used appropriately as a tool for feedback and refinement, while keeping the devotional itself fully in the writer’s own words.
Jonathan Shank, M.Div.
CEO, Celebration Web Design
Jonathan, the Senior Website & SEO Marketing Consultant and Managing Partner of Celebration Web Design, has passionately served non-profit organizations and Christ-focused authors since 2006. Jonathan has a diverse skill set in digital marketing, graphic design, management, and expertise in crafting purpose-driven websites using programming languages such as HTML5, SQL, PHP, ASP, C#, CSS, and JavaScript. Besides being a skilled programmer and designer, Jonathan also assists clients in building comprehensive branding and SEO packages to enhance their online presence.
Throughout his career, Jonathan has worked closely with clients to deliver stunning, user-centered author websites, helping them reach their audiences and market their books effectively. He has helped to revolutionize the web presence of hundreds of Authors, Ministries, and Non-Profit Organizations.
As the driving force behind Celebration Web Design, Jonathan is dedicated to creating handcrafted, custom websites tailored to each partner’s unique needs while nurturing strong relationships for successful outcomes.
I’ve never stopped thanking the Lord for leading me to
Celebration Web Design around fifteen years ago.
Jonathan and his father, Bruce, are not only gifted professionals,
they are my Christian brothers and prayer partners.
I can’t recommend them highly enough.
Marlene Bagnull
Learning Lab – The How and Why of Website Creation (Wednesday, 3:45 – 6:00)
Join our interactive two-hour learning lab where we will guide you through essential website development strategies tailored for authors. This comprehensive, hands-on workshop covers a wide range of crucial topics:
Content Strategy Development: Learn the fundamentals of search engine optimization (SEO) and how to discover the right keywords to target your audience and improve your website's visibility. Delve into the value of a well-defined content strategy, covering topic ideation, content planning, and consistency in posting to keep visitors engaged and coming back for more.
Essential Content for Author Websites: Discover the key elements that every author website should include, such as an author bio, book information, contact details, and upcoming events.
Blog Writing Tips: Receive guidance on crafting engaging blog content that resonates with your audience and showcases your expertise as an author.
Basic Web Layout: Understand the importance of an organized, visually-appealing, and mobile-responsive layout, and how to create a user-friendly design that enhances user experience on various devices.
Social Media Integration: Learn how to effectively connect your social media accounts with your website to promote increased engagement and grow your online presence.
Crafting Persuasive Calls-to-Action (CTAs): Learn how to create effective CTAs that encourage visitors to take desired actions, such as signing up for newsletters or purchasing books.
We’ll also explore the various options for building a website, from do-it-yourself solutions and pre-made designs to hiring a custom designer. The learning lab will help you decide which choice is right for you. Through practical exercises, you’ll gain hands-on experience in discovering relevant keywords and refining your website messaging. By the end of this engaging learning lab, you’ll be equipped with the knowledge and tools to create a compelling author website that captivates your target audience and supports your writing career.
Round Table - Jonathan will be available to answer questions and discuss your website and marketing! You’ll definitely want to take advantage of this opportunity!
Thomas Umstattd Jr.
Author, Speaker
Podcast Host, Novel Marketing Podcast
and the Christian Publishing Show
CEO, AuthorMedia.com
thomasumstattd.com
Thomas is the founder of Author Media and the host of the Novel Marketing Podcast, the longest running book marketing podcast in the world. He also hosts Author Update and the Christian Publishing Show. Thomas helps authors build their platforms, sell more books, and change the world with writing worth talking about.
Workshop 1B – AI: The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly (Thursday, 2:00 – 2:50)
Get an overview of what AI is and step-by-step guidance on how to use it as Christian authors.
Workshop 2H – Marketing Q & A (Thursday, 5:15 – 6:05)
Come ask Thomas, host of the Novel Marketing Podcast and the Christian Publishing Show, your marketing, launching, and promotion questions in this live session.
AI Panel – (Saturday 1:15 – 1:55)