Workshops

Workshop Tracks

A – Writer’s Life
B – Craft
C – Fiction
D – Nonfiction
E – Writing for Children and Teens
F – Shorts
G – Getting Published
H – Marketing: Reaching Our Audience
I – Impact Culture

All times are Eastern

Workshop 1
Thursday, June 18, 2:00 – 2:50

1A – Writing That Heals – Linda Evans Shepherd
Many writers carry deep personal stories—stories shaped by loss, disappointment, grief, or hardship. But how do you know when you’re ready to write about painful experiences? And how can your writing bring healing instead of reopening wounds?

In this compassionate and Spirit-led session, Linda Evans Shepherd guides writers through the process of turning pain into purpose without rushing the healing journey. This workshop explores how God redeems our hardest experiences and how, in His timing, those stories can become sources of hope, encouragement, and ministry to others.

Participants will learn the difference between writing from open wounds versus healed scars, how to discern what to share and what to protect, and how to shape personal experiences into messages that point readers toward God’s faithfulness rather than simply recounting pain. Linda will also address healthy boundaries, wisdom in storytelling, and the importance of prayer and discernment when writing about sensitive experiences.

This is not a class about oversharing or emotional exposure. It is about healing, perspective, and purpose—trusting God to lead both the process and the outcome. Whether your story is meant for publication, a small audience, or simply personal healing, this workshop will help you write with clarity, compassion, and hope—allowing God to use your story in ways that bring life, not harm.

1B – AI: The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly – Thomas Umstattd Jr.
Get an overview of what AI is and step-by-step guidance on how to use it as Christian authors.

1C – Writing Hard Themes in Thriller Fiction – Faith Ijiga
Thrillers often explore dark and difficult realities—terrorism, war, persecution, and moral conflict. For Christian authors, writing about these hard themes can raise important questions: How do we portray evil truthfully without glorifying it? How do we address real-world suffering while still pointing readers toward hope and redemption? In this workshop, I will share how thriller writers can approach difficult subjects—such as terrorism, persecution, and violence—with courage, authenticity, and spiritual sensitivity. Drawing from my experience writing stories inspired by real-world events in Nigeria, participants will learn how to craft gripping thrillers that confront darkness honestly while reflecting a Christian worldview.

1D – Balancing Privacy & Relationships When Writing Real-Life Events – Cindy Lambert
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.

1E – Writing for Youth Magazines – Steve Bootsma
The entire story needs to fit onto two-three pages. What’s important to add, what needs to stay, what can go? How do I make sure the Christian message comes through? Now that your story is ready to submit, what will improve or hinder the chances of it being published?

1F –  Inspired Writing That Inspires – David Bennett
Both magazines and devotionals provide life-changing opportunities to inspire others and to be inspired in the process! Whether 300 words or 2,000 words, God can use you to lead others to His Word. This workshop will give you some tools to write inspirationally.

1G – Getting Past the Publishing Gatekeepers – Rowena Kuo
What if you knew what publishing professionals really wanted? Let’s take a guided tour of how to win the hearts of agents, publishers, editors, and readers. Discover what it takes to unlock each “gate” within the publishing industry.

1H – Marketing into Ministry – Cheri Cowell
No one wants to hear about you and your book after the third week of your book’s release, so how do you market your book without talking about your book? Learn the proven strategy that turns marketing into ministry AND sells books.

1I – Writing to Shape Culture – Michelle Lazurek
This workshop is for new and seasoned Christian writers who want to target their messages to speak to the world around them. Learn how your words can shape not only the lives of those who know you, but also the culture around you. Michelle will help you

• Identify your core values to understand your core message
• Understand the world’s values to spread the gospel
• Identify the cries of the world to better target your message
• Write a tagline that reflects these values

 

Workshop 2
Thursday, June 18, 5:15 – 6:05

2A – Seeking Publication After 50 – Lori Stanley Roeleveld
Stop asking if you’re too old to be a writer. Instead, learn what you need to know to start (or start again) writing at your age. If you’re nearing or over fifty and wondering if you’ve missed your chance, this workshop will answer your questions and prepare you to act wisely and well as you pursue God’s purpose for your words.

2B – Build Your Creative Confidence – Edwina Perkins
“Creativity is intelligence having fun.” Albert Einstein
     Creativity isn’t a lightning bolt that strikes occasionally, and it can’t be predicted. It’s more like a muscle. Creativity needs to be trained, challenged, and worked on constantly to develop your skills. Edwina will address some obstacles and benefits of being a creative and ways to build your creative muscle.

2C – Tapping into the Emotions of Your Characters – Mike Dellosso
How do we attach genuine emotions to our characters if we’ve never experienced them? How do write authentically about an emotionally saturated experience when we’ve never personally navigated that experience? Whether you’re writing fiction or memoirs or biographies, getting the emotional template right is often a challenge. In this workshop, we’ll discuss the power of empathy to tap into those emotions to write authentic scenes and create real characters.– 

2D – Using Fiction Techniques to Enhance Your Nonfiction – Cindy & Dave Lambert
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.

2E – How to Write for Middle Grade without Sounding Cheesy or Preachy – Annette Marie Griffin
If you’ve explored the middle-grade readers’ section of a library or bookstore lately, you know that the genre is inundated with dark, mystical literature. Now more than ever, Christian writers need to be the Light for young readers. But no one wants to read a book that’s cringe worthy—especially tweens. This workshop will explore five keys to reach the heart of a middle-grade audience with relatable stories that contain the truth, the way, and the life. 

2F – Writing Devotionals That Connect – Beth Patch
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.

2G – How to Pitch to a Magazine Editor – David Bennett
You’ll be ready to hit a home run after touching the “bases” of writing for a magazine. Focus on building a relationship with your coach (editor) and set your sights on the big leagues.

2H – Marketing Q & A – Thomas Umstattd Jr.
Come ask Thomas, host of the Novel Marketing Podcast and the Christian Publishing Show, your marketing, launching, and promotion questions in this live session.   

2I – Defusing Hot Wire Topics – Emily Chase
When readers are fired up about hot issues like gay rights or abortion issues, how do you encourage them to listen to a different viewpoint? This workshop will use the power of humor to defuse resistance and open ears to hear alternative perspectives. 

 

Workshop 3
Friday, June 19, 2:00 – 2:50

3A – I.D.E.A. for Change: Inclusive Writing for Writers – Edwina Perkins
Understanding IDEA requires a broader focus. Inclusion doesn’t explain everything, nor does diversity, equity, or access. Inclusive writing is designed to promote inclusion, promote equity, and promote respect for diversity. It’s important to educate yourself on cultural differences to ensure your writing is authentic in your cross-cultural books.    We’ll address what IDEA for Change is, clarify what it is not, and detail the biblical basis for this important concept. The care we demonstrate for others in our writing is an expression of our faith.

3B – Writing from a Broken Heart – Robert N. Ruesch
We all have had challenges and tragedies in our lives. The worst nightmare for a parent is to see their children become a living train wreck from addiction. Robert witnessed his daughter’s decline because of her addiction to alcohol and a wide range of drugs. Twice she was placed in a federal prison. However, God was protecting her every step of the way, even when she overdosed and came close to death. Robert and his daughter wrote an award-winning book about this journey of recovery.

This workshop will be a raw and unfiltered look at how you place emotion on paper so that others may be helped and can turn tragedy into triumph. Robert has written three other books and articles for various newspapers, locally and nationally. He has taught at writers’ conferences for the past two decades.

3C – Inside a Developmental Edit (live demo) – Joleen Grumann
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.

3D – Writing Bible Studies for Transformation – Virginia Grounds
Jesus changes lives. When Bible study is taken seriously to learn more about God and His Word, true transformation takes place. Writing Bible studies is an important mission for leading others to experience changed lives. What needs to be included? How many questions? How much commentary? 

3E – Writing for Early Readers – Michelle Lazurek
This workshop is for beginning or intermediate writers who want to write for children but don’t know how to start and intermediate writers who write for children but find their material is not resonating with their audiences. Learn how to reach the next generation through creating compelling and engaging content while staying true to God’s Word. Michelle will share:

• Why writing children’s books is so important
• Five tips to help you if you have a desire to write but don’t know where to start
• Four ways to keep children engaged in the story
• How to structure your book

3F – The Genuine Article: From Idea to Acceptance – Marti Pieper
In her years of experience as both writer and editor of thousands of nonfiction articles and cover stories, Marti has learned how to take an idea, concept, or assignment and turn it into an article that not only sells but leaves a lasting impact. This workshop includes tips on brainstorming, identifying your target audience, focusing your idea, self-editing, and more. Learn to make editors smile and leave your audience asking for more. 

3G – I Have a Book Deal! Now What? – Stephanie Alton
This workshop is designed for writers who are transitioning from “contract signed” to “book in production,” helping them avoid surprises and navigate the next steps professionally.

• What happens after you sign a book contract
• How to prepare for the publishing process
• What authors should expect from their publisher
• How to collaborate effectively with your agent and publishing team
• Marketing and publicity considerations once the deal is in place

3H – The Book Review Roadmap – Tamara Clymer
Turn reader feedback into your book’s greatest asset. In this workshop, you’ll learn to navigate the world of book reviews—earning more of them, using them effectively, and handling the dreaded negative ones with grace. Learn practical strategies to encourage reviews, leverage them for marketing, and build lasting reader engagement. Whether you’re a new author or a seasoned writer, this workshop will equip you with the tools to harness the power of reader feedback to boost credibility, increase sales, and strengthen your author brand. Don’t leave your reviews to chance. Unlock their full potential!

3I –   Good News versus Bad News: Why Christian Theism & Islam Impact Culture So Differently – Dr. William Gray
Learn how Muhammad and Islam promote “Bad News” while Jesus and Christian Theism promote “Good News.”

How Muhammad and Islam’s Holy Books encourage jihadist violence and political domination to impose anti-democratic Islam; promote hate of all infidels; view females and non-Muslims as inferior; require surrender to a god (Allah) and strict obedience to hundreds of Sharia Laws; worship a god who is transcendent and impersonal, unloving and judgmental; never know if “good deeds” outweigh “bad deeds” to gain Paradise; promotes theocracy (Caliphate dictatorship), not democracy.

How Jesus and Christian Theism promote peace and a non-political Kingdom of God; emphasize loving God and others (including enemies) as the two Great Commandments; elevate females and the down-trodden; attract whosoever chooses to be Followers of Jesus; promote a personal relationship with Jesus as Savior and Lord to gain access to God the Father (grace and forgiveness) and to the Holy Spirit (spiritual gifts and fruit); ensure eternal salvation hereafter and present salvation here (set free from worldly enslavements); promotes democracy, not theocracy.

Haven’t found a way to be two places at the same time?
For only $59 conferees can purchase the Add-on for access to over 100 hours of video replays through December 31, 2026.The videos will be available to view early August 
giving you over FOUR months!
 

Workshop 4
Friday, June 19, 5:15 – 6:05

4A – Be an Author! Your Dreams Versus God’s Plan – Dawn Stephens
So, you want to be an author. Do you ever wonder if that is what God wants for you? Dawn will share her personal journey of surrender, obedience, and unexpected redirection. Participants will discover that publishing a book may not lead them down the path they have carefully planned – but may open doors to something even greater. Through Scripture, reflection, and practical encouragement, writers will learn to trust the true Author of their life story and gain confidence that God is faithfully preparing them for what comes next.

4B – The 14 Targets a Title Must Touch – Dr. Sharon Norris Elliott
Most of us do our best to come up with a clever title for our book, but many of us fail miserably. The title is the most important marketing tool for your collection of words. In fact, a strong title must multitask to accomplish 14 purposes. Attending this workshop may help you creatively entitle your book to enthrall your readers, or it will at least explain why publishers reserve the right to assign this task to the company’s hired professionals.

4C – Writing New Adult Novels – Krysten Lindsay Hager 
What are readers looking for in the New Adult genre? We’ll go over how to pick topics, themes, and the differences between Young Adult and New Adult books. We’ll also discuss writing New Adult romances that are sweet and clean when the market is known for spicy/steamy New Adult books.

4D – Structuring Your Nonfiction Manuscript – Alice Crider
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. 

4E – Picture Book Editing Intensive – Penny Reeve
You’ve written a picture book and now it’s time to revise and edit. In this intensive, experienced children’s book author Penny Reeve, introduces writers to the steps and stages needed to turn a PB draft into story ready for submission/illustration. Topics covered include language and imagery, word count and page turns, storyline and sub-themes, perspective and voice. To prepare for this class, please bring a picture book work-in-progress.

4F – Idea to Impact: Starting Your Substack Now – Damola Curtis
You don’t need a master plan, just a clear message and the willingness to start. In this workshop, you’ll get a simple, proven framework for launching your Substack newsletter and using it as a tool for ministry and message. Whether you’re writing devotionals, reflections, or creative nonfiction, you’ll walk away with a blueprint, three solid post ideas, and the clarity to stop overthinking and start writing. Come with a rough idea, you’ll leave with a path forward.

4G – Shelf Awareness: How to Research Comparative Titles – Karen Neumair
Confused about comps? Understanding which books compete with yours can shape your project’s direction and success. Join Karen as she explains a variety of ways to research comparable titles and determine how best to make your book stand out on the shelf.

4H – How to Attract Book Clubs – DiAnn Mills
Writers love to have their books featured by book clubs. We’re excited, passionate, and long for them to enjoy a new adventure. We might think that should be enough for readers to jump onboard our book-baby, but we can thrill them even more by offering ways to enjoy the book privately or within a book club. This workshop shows the writer where to find  book clubs, how to approach them, and tried and proven ways to make your presentation shine. This is one of my favorite workshops because it’s fun!

4I –  Write Your Wisdom to the Next Gen of Youth and Families – Dr. Mel Tavares
Transform your life experience, faith journey, and hard-earned wisdom into impactful content that speaks to today’s youth and modern families. Whether writing devotionals, nonfiction, children’s stories, or family-centered resources, participants will learn how to craft relevant and meaningful messages that bridge generational gaps, strengthen families, and leave a lasting legacy through words.  
 

Workshop 5
Saturday, June 20, 2:00 – 2:50

5A – How to Interact with Publishers and Editors – Michelle Adserias
Tips for successfully working toward getting published.

5B – Things I’ve Learned in 40 Years of Writing and Publishing – James Watkins

5C – Playing God Leads to Trouble: Science Fiction as a Vehicle for Biblical Truths – Jason William Karpf
Jason is an award-winning author and acquisitions editor/marketing manager for Elk Lake Publishing, Inc. Click here for full bio. Jason will present science fiction tropes that tie into recurring biblical themes. He will show how genre legends Rod Serling and Gene Roddenberry specifically used science fiction to impart lessons. Jason will also provide highlights from his live study series, “Christian Sci-Fi Night with Professor K.” Two hundred years ago, Mary Shelley launched science fiction with Frankenstein, Its core message, found in Scripture millennia earlier: playing God leads to trouble!

5D – Your Story: Someone’s Missing Piece – PeggySue Wells
Internationally recognized author and storytelling expert PeggySue Wells reveals how personal narratives create bridges of understanding in an increasingly fragmented world. Drawing from her experience as the author of more than 100 books and her personal journey as a single mother of seven, PeggySue demonstrates how intentionally shared stories transform silence into wisdom, disconnection into legacy, and judgment into empathy.

5E – Not yet scheduled

5F – Writing Sidebar and Discussion Questions – David Fessenden
Your nonfiction article or book manuscript will be more salable with strong sidebars and discussion questions. This workshop gives tips on how to produce these valuable additions.

5G – Five Things That Surprised Me About Traditional Publishing – Sara Brunvold
The learning curve for traditionally published debut authors is steeper than they can anticipate. From financial considerations to understanding sales and royalties to managing a new set of expectations, newbie authors face numerous adjustments – some of which are rarely discussed at writing conferences. Multi-published author Sara Brunsvold shares five of the biggest surprises she encountered after signing her first contract. The insights she shares will help you understand what the first years of a traditional publishing career is really like. 

5H – How to Make the Most of a Podcast Interview – Faith Ijiga and Emmanuel Awiri
Podcast interviews have become one of the most powerful ways for authors to reach new readers. Many authors go on podcasts hoping it will help promote their books, but they miss the opportunity by giving vague or guarded answers to questions listeners genuinely want to hear. As someone who has been in the podcasting space for four years, I will share what actually works. In this workshop, I’ll talk about how authors can reach out to podcasters, how to present themselves as strong guests, and how to prepare for interviews that connect with listeners. We will also discuss why honesty and vulnerability matter. When listeners hear the authentic story behind your book, they are far more likely to become readers.

5I – Writing to Victory – Victoria Dorshorn
We are in danger of losing our children and grandchildren to identity confusion. Families divide over sexual rebellion. And our nation is in grave danger over the misinformation, deception, excused crime, and destructive rioting which is rampant. Explore how your writing can influence your loved ones and others in this battle for a  return to biblical principles in home and in society. Consider how your genre can bring victory to others as you write what God has called you to write.
 

Workshop 6 
Saturday, June 20, 3:45 – 4:35

6A – TIME - Got a Minute? – Laura Shaffer
I’m trying to number my days, but I keep losing count! How about you? Don’t fall for satan’s lies that you have plenty of time, or that you work better under pressure, or that busy-ness is close to godliness. Let’s ask and listen to the Lord, not the world, for our priorities.

6B – Research Techniques – Rowena Kuo
Wiki-me-not! If history is written by the victors, then make history by writing it yourself. Discern fact from fiction, theory from law, and Churchill from Plato. State your position, but be prepared to back it up using reliable sources. Where do you start when researching material for your written work? How do you attribute researched information once you find it? And does it all have to be so boring? Whether you love or hate research, but have to do it anyway, this is the workshop for you.

6C – Growing Great Stories – Dawn Stephens
Discover how God-designed storytelling can flourish when rooted in purpose, structure, and heart. In this interactive workshop, you will learn how to create a story map and follow the process of growing fruit while you identify and use the elements of a great story. From planting strong characters and settings to cultivating rising action and harvesting a powerful climax, you’ll gain practical tools to grow stories that are engaging, meaningful, and ready for publication. Leave inspired, equipped, and confident to nurture the story God has placed inside you.

6D – Legacy Writing: Words That Outlive You – Robin Grunder
What if the most important words you ever write are the ones your grandchildren read someday? In this workshop, Robin Grunder explores the heart of legacy writing—capturing faith stories, family memories, and moments of God’s faithfulness so they won’t be forgotten. Whether your words belong in a bookstore or on the family bookshelf, discover how your stories can point others to Jesus—and impact eternity.

6E – Children’s Picture Books: The Complete How-to – James Burd Brewster
Jim will walk you through the complete process from initial concept to ready-to-print, fully formatted files. Includes picking a children’s book genre, genre appropriate concepts/words, verse vs. prose, illustrations vs. photographs, finding and hiring an illustrator, and working with an illustrator. 

6F – Writing for Guideposts Devotional Books – Sandy Kirby Quandt
Dream of seeing your byline in a Guideposts devotional book? Then join me as we explore various elements Guideposts editors look for. We’ll discuss how to share a first-person anecdote that draws readers into a spiritual takeaway, without being preachy. We’ll discuss ways to take everyday moments and pull spiritual lessons from them in a relatable way. We’ll discuss how to tell a compelling story with a spiritual takeaway in 300-375 words. You’ll leave with a better understanding of what Guideposts looks for in their devotional books.

6G – How to Know Which Publishing Path Is Right for You – Karen Neumair
New to publishing? Karen outlines the pros and cons of three key publishing paths, helping you choose the best fit for your goals – plus an overview of how to break into traditional publishing. 

6H – Inbox Influence: How to Attract Readers and Grow Your Email List – Tamara Clymer
A thriving email list is the backbone of a successful author career—but where do you start? Tamara will walk you through the step-by-step process of building a quality email list the right way. Learn how to attract your ideal readers, create irresistible lead magnets, and grow your list without relying on social media’s ever-changing rules. Whether you’re starting from zero or looking to grow faster, this workshop will equip you with the tools to turn casual visitors into loyal subscribers who can’t wait to read your next book!

6I - Writing for Revival – Susan A. Massey
How do we connect with the heart of God to awaken spiritual renewal in people? As Christian writers, we want our words to transform the lives of our readers. Writing to inspire growth in our audience starts with our own inner journey. In this workshop, we’ll explore the essential qualities of real revival, ways to deepen our own relationship with God, and how to become a prophetic voice that can change the world. Learn to Write His Answer with a strong sense of purpose for your message.