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Sparking Everyday Discipleship

Terrie Hellard-Brown

A Podcast about Discipleship in the 21st Century providing tools for Everyday Discipleship Every Day

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S14 · E350
Thursday · 18 min
Using Copy Work for Language Arts and Discipleship
Summary Terrie Hellard-Brown shares practical insights on teaching language arts and writing to children, emphasizing modeling, copy work, and motor skills development to enhance learning and Scripture memory. Key Topics The power of modeling in teaching language arts Using copy work to teach grammar and punctuation The TPCASTT method for analyzing poetry The importance of large motor skills in writing Strategies for teaching Bible verses and memorization Addressing fine motor challenges in children Using sidewalk chalk and large paper for handwriting The role of technology and traditional methods in learning Takeaways Copy work helps children learn punctuation and sentence structure naturally. Modeling behavior is more effective than direct instruction for children. Using Word's underlining feature can aid in grammar correction. Copying poetry and Bible verses enhances memorization and understanding. Large motor skills are crucial for developing fine motor control in writing. Starting handwriting practice with sidewalk chalk can reduce fatigue. Teaching children to write from the shoulder prevents wrist fatigue. Using a progression from large to small paper helps develop handwriting skills. Incorporating analysis like TPCASTT deepens literary understanding. Encouraging outdoor and creative writing activities makes learning engaging. Sound Bites "Modeling behavior is more effective than direct instruction." "Copy work helps children learn punctuation and sentence structure naturally." "Using large motor skills prevents wrist fatigue and improves memory." Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Teaching Language Arts and Copy Work 02:04 The Power of Modeling in Teaching Children 04:12 Using Word to Help with Grammar and Punctuation 05:59 The TPCASTT Method for Analyzing Poems 07:48 Incorporating Bible Verses and Memorization Strategies 10:01 Using Large Motor Skills and Outdoor Activities for Handwriting 11:52 The Benefits of Traditional Writing and Dictionary Use 14:00 Addressing Motor Challenges with Practical Tips 15:46 Final Thoughts and Encouragement for Homeschoolers 17:09 Upcoming Interviews and Closing Remarks
S14 · E349
September 11 · 24 min
I Only Needed One Real Friend: A TCK on Belonging, Loneliness, and Discipleship
Summary In this episode, we explore the vital role of community and friendship in children's development, especially for those growing up as third culture kids and in homeschooling environments. Annie shares her personal experiences of navigating friendships across cultures and the importance of lifelong connections. Key Topics The significance of community and friendship in child development Challenges faced by third culture kids in forming friendships The role of community in emotional and social growth Strategies for homeschooling families to build social networks Lifelong friendships and their impact on well-being The importance of community for neurodivergent children Parenting tips for fostering social skills and connections The impact of expat life on children's social experiences Takeaways Community is essential for emotional and social development. Lifelong friends often form through shared experiences and trust. Parents should actively create opportunities for children to build friendships. Homeschooling groups and activities can provide vital social interaction. Understanding and supporting neurodivergent children's social needs is crucial. Sound Bites "You are who you surround yourself with." "Traveling helps me stay connected worldwide." "Masks can come off when you're with your community." Chapters 00:00 Introduction to the importance of community for children 00:14 Annalisa shares her view on friendship and community 00:39 The impact of community on emotional development 00:54 Challenges faced by expat and third culture kids 01:20 Building lifelong friendships across cultures 01:47 The role of community in homeschooling 02:05 Supporting neurodivergent children in social settings 02:29 The significance of masks and authentic community 02:37 Encouragement for parents to foster social connections 02:38 Conclusion and final thoughts on community and friendship
S14 · E348
September 3 · 11 min
Who's Your Favorite: Episode 348
Summary In this episode, we explore the importance of prioritizing God in our lives and how it impacts our relationships with our children and spouses. We discuss practical ways to keep God at the center and the dangers of idolatry. Key Topics The importance of making God the first priority in life How to teach children about God's supremacy and love The role of marriage in spiritual growth Recognizing and avoiding idolatry in daily life Practical steps to spend quality time with God The significance of returning to one's first love in faith Balancing family, marriage, and personal faith The biblical basis for prioritizing God's kingdom Takeaways God must be the center of our lives to effectively disciple our children. Parents should model Christ's love and prioritize their relationship with Him. Avoiding idolatry requires regular self-examination and repentance. Spending time in prayer and Bible study strengthens our faith and family. A healthy marriage supports spiritual growth and family stability. Key Frameworks First Love Mentality Priorities in Faith and Family Sound Bites "Jesus has to be our favorite." "Idolatry is putting anything else in God's place." "Seek ye first the kingdom of God." Chapters 00:00 Introduction to the importance of prioritizing God 01:55 A story about a father's love and God's supremacy 04:02 Understanding the sin of idolatry in family life 06:05 The significance of spending time with God daily 08:09 Balancing marriage and parenting with faith at the center 10:07 Seeking God's kingdom first and trusting His provision 10:55 Encouragement to return to our first love in Christ
S14 · E347
August 27 · 14 min
Teaching Redemption and Restoration with Drandar the Dragon: Season 14, Episode 347
Summary In this episode, Terrie Hellard-Brown discusses her latest children's book, Drandar and the Quest for Redemption, exploring themes of forgiveness, trust, and God's grace through an adventurous story about a dragon and a knight. She shares insights on the importance of redemption in faith and life, and how her books and resources aim to inspire children and families. Key Topics Themes of redemption and forgiveness in children's literature The story behind Drandar and the Quest for Redemption The importance of teaching children about God's grace Using stories to illustrate spiritual lessons Resources for family discipleship and faith growth Takeaways Redemption is a powerful theme that teaches children about God's grace and forgiveness. Stories can be a meaningful way to introduce spiritual concepts to kids. The 'Drandar' series aims to show that even those who fail can find redemption. Resources like QR codes and music enhance engagement and learning. Parents and educators can use these stories to foster faith and values in children. Sound Bites "Redemption is reconciliation and showing our value." "God's grace is beyond anything we deserve." "This podcast has been a blessing to me from day one." Chapters 00:00 Introduction to the Book and Its Themes 01:16 The Story of Drandar and Seton 02:11 The Quest for Redemption Begins 04:09 God's Opportunity for Reconciliation 05:58 Using Music and QR Codes to Teach Faith 07:29 The Power of Redemption and Grace 09:31 Upcoming Books and Resources 11:21 Join Our Mailing List and Resources 13:29 Podcast Achievements and Future Goals 14:22 Closing Remarks and Blessings
S14 · E346
August 19 · 32 min
Real Faith in Real Life with Gayle Veitenheimer and Jen Weaver - Episode 346, Season 14
Summary In this episode, authors Gail Veitenheimer and Jen Weaver discuss their middle grade mystery series that weaves faith and storytelling, emphasizing how to naturally incorporate spiritual lessons into engaging stories for children. They share insights on faith development, storytelling techniques, and practical tips for parents and educators. Key Topics How faith is woven naturally into children's stories The importance of short chapters and engaging storytelling techniques Encouraging children to recognize God's voice and practice prayer Addressing emotional themes like anxiety, insecurity, and reconciliation Practical tips for parents to foster faith and reading habits Sound Bites "God has wired us for story." "Prayer is our secret weapon." "Real faith in real life." Chapters 00:00 Introduction to the series and guests 01:55 Overview of the book series and inspiration behind it 03:58 Character development: Luca's faith struggle and Ember's grounding 05:51 The importance of storytelling in faith formation 07:55 How faith is naturally integrated into the story 09:53 Partnership in writing and prayer in the creative process 12:02 Themes of teamwork, reconciliation, and trust in the series 13:47 Helping children recognize God's voice and practice prayer 16:01 Addressing emotional themes like anxiety and insecurity 17:59 Tips for encouraging reluctant readers and engaging children 19:48 The value of short chapters and multimedia resources 22:01 Supporting children with processing differences and diverse learning needs 23:56 The role of parents and caregivers in everyday discipleship 25:57 Upcoming books and series continuation 28:03 Sharing resources: podcasts and additional materials 30:00 Final thoughts and encouragement for parents and educators
S14 · E345
August 13 · 23 min
Discipleship and Discipline: Answering Parents' Questions - Sparking Everyday Discipleship Episode 345
Summary In this episode, we explore how Christian parents can effectively disciple their children, emphasizing the importance of conversations, transparency, and trust in nurturing faith. The host shares practical tips and biblical principles to help parents guide their kids in following Christ. Key Topics The importance of ongoing conversations with children about faith Being transparent and authentic in parenting Sharing personal testimony to teach God's grace Teaching children to handle temptation and make faith-based decisions The role of trust and prayer in spiritual parenting Respect and communication as foundations for sibling relationships Balancing discipline with love and respect The significance of trusting God's plan for children's faith journey Takeaways Consistent, open conversations foster trust and spiritual growth. Parents should be transparent about their own struggles and God's grace. Praying on the spot helps in responding to difficult questions. Teaching children to handle temptation is crucial for their faith. Trust in God's sovereignty is vital, even if children stray. Respect and communication are key to sibling harmony. Parents cannot control their children's faith decisions, only guide and pray. Sharing personal stories of failure and redemption models God's grace. Sound Bites "Trust God, He loves your child more than you do." "Teach children how to handle temptation and make faith-based decisions." "Keep trusting, keep praying, God has a plan." Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Discipleship and Parenting Challenges 01:50 The Core of Discipleship: Conversations and Purposeful Teaching 04:00 Trusting God and Praying for Your Children's Salvation 05:52 The Importance of Open, Honest Conversations with Children 08:05 Being Transparent and Sharing Personal Testimony 11:00 Teaching Children How to Handle Temptation and Make Faithful Choices 12:50 Trusting God's Plan and Praying Through Uncertainty 14:02 Addressing Sibling Rivalry with Respect and Communication 17:11 Building Respect and Healthy Relationships Among Siblings 20:10 The Role of Respect and Prayer in Parenting 22:04 Closing Remarks and Resources for Parents
S13 · E344
July 24 · 14 min
Episode 344: The Eternal Importance of Listening to Our Children's Questions
Summary In this episode, Terrie Hellard-Brown shares her heartfelt journey of coming to faith as a child, the importance of understanding genuine salvation, and how to nurture children's spiritual growth. She emphasizes listening to children's questions and trusting God's work in their lives. Key Topics Child's journey to faith Importance of understanding salvation Answering children's spiritual questions Different ways children come to faith Trusting God's timing in salvation Takeaways Children's faith experiences vary; some have immediate, powerful conversions, others grow gradually. It's crucial to listen to children's questions and treat their curiosity with respect. Genuine faith often involves a real, palpable change, not just a prayer. Parents and leaders should clearly articulate the gospel in simple terms. God is drawing children to Himself, and our role is to nurture and answer their questions. Sound Bites "I knew I needed Jesus, I didn't understand it." "There was a change in my heart, like I came to life." "God is drawing children to Himself, and we must listen." Chapters 00:00 Introduction and overview of the episode 00:26 Terrie shares her personal story of coming to Christ at age seven 01:19 The significance of the Lord's Supper in her faith journey 02:42 Understanding children's questions about salvation 04:43 Recognizing genuine faith in children 06:34 The importance of listening to children's spiritual questions 08:24 Different ways children come to faith and grow in it 12:04 The need for clear gospel communication 13:01 The palpable change when truly coming to Christ 15:31 Trusting God's work in children's hearts 16:30 Encouragement for parents and leaders in discipleship
S13 · E343
July 17 · 33 min
Episode 343: Kathleen Bostrom and Celebrating Creation
Summary In this episode, Kathleen Bostrom shares her journey of writing children's books about creation, the importance of faith-based stories, and the challenges and joys of publishing. We explore how these stories can inspire children and adults alike to appreciate God's creation and our role in caring for the earth. Key Topics Kathleen Bostrom's journey of writing children's books about creation The importance of faith and stewardship in children's stories The process of illustrating and publishing children's books The impact of stories on children's understanding of God's creation Challenges faced by authors in the children's publishing industry Takeaways Stories about creation can inspire children to appreciate God's world Faith-based children's books teach stewardship and responsibility Illustration and collaboration are key in children's book publishing Supporting local bookstores and libraries helps sustain children's literature Creating diverse and inclusive characters in children's books is important Sound Bites "The joy of God's creation just spilled out of my pen" "Creation stories remind us of God's fingerprints everywhere" "Stories about creation inspire children to appreciate God's world" Chapters 00:00 Introduction and guest introduction 00:12 Kathleen Long Bostrom's background and inspiration 00:58 The journey of writing 'Lift the Flaps' board book 01:25 The joy of God's creation and storytelling in rhyme 02:22 The collaboration with illustrator Janet Samuel 03:21 The significance of stewardship in children's stories 04:18 The timing of the book release and personal milestones 06:52 The illustrations and their impact 07:35 The importance of creation stories in faith and education 08:30 The biblical foundation of creation and God's fingerprints 09:15 Diversity and inclusion in children's books 09:55 The role of creation in understanding God's nature 11:27 The emotional and spiritual impact of stories 12:54 The importance of caring for God's earth 13:43 The value of picture books for all ages 15:48 Supporting children's literature and local bookstores 16:46 The significance of reading to children from birth 17:29 The power of stories in shaping faith and values 18:35 The role of books in end-of-life moments 19:17 The evolving landscape of children's publishing industry 20:44 Balancing writing, family, and life transitions 22:46 The challenges of publishing children's books today 24:32 The importance of supporting children's books financially 25:29 The lasting impact of childhood stories 27:35 The influence of books on personal growth and faith 29:41 The future of children's literature and publishing industry
S13 · E342
July 9 · 20 min
Episode 342: Sue Irwin and Teaching Gratitude and Praise Through Storytelling
Summary In this episode, Sue Irwin discusses her upcoming children's book 'Hey There Bluebird, Why Do You Chirp?' and explores how it can be used to teach gratitude, praise, and spiritual lessons to children, including those with special needs. She shares insights on using books as educational and emotional tools for families and educators. Key Topics Using books to teach gratitude and praise Adapting children's literature for special needs The role of storytelling in emotional development Educational aspects of 'Hey There Bluebird' Strategies for family and classroom reading Sound Bites "Gratitude is a superpower for children." "Teaching gratitude helps children calm down and see the good." "Books can be enjoyed at any age, not just children." Chapters 00:00 Introduction to 'Hey There Bluebird' 01:49 The Power of Gratitude in Special Needs Education 06:03 Using Books for All Ages and Abilities 09:53 Educational Elements of 'Hey There Bluebird' 13:51 Looking Ahead: Future Projects and Collaborations Resources Hey There Bluebird Book Website - https://amzn.to/4bBvcAb Sue Irwin's Website - https://www.sueirwinwrites.com/books
S13 · E341
July 2 · 18 min
Episode 341: Lexa Hale and Embracing Your Unique Design at Any Age
SummaryIn this episode, Lexa shares her inspiring journey of writing her first children's book, 'God Chose Me,' and discusses the importance of teaching children about their unique creation by God. We explore themes of self-acceptance, God's intentional design, and how to nurture a positive self-image in young kids. Key Topics The inspiration behind 'God Chose Me' Teaching children about God's intentional creation Balancing self-esteem with humility The role of rhyme and illustration in children's books Real-life stories of children embracing their uniqueness Takeaways Children need a strong foundation of understanding that they are uniquely created by God. It's important to celebrate differences without fostering pride or entitlement. Rhyme in children's books should be carefully crafted to enhance engagement and memorability. Illustrations can powerfully convey emotions and messages in children's literature. Personal stories from parents highlight the importance of acceptance and love. Sound Bites "Nothing about you is a mistake." "You are uniquely, intentionally created by God." "Kids can be whatever they want to be." Chapters 00:00 Introduction to 'God Chose Me' 02:35 The Inspiration Behind the Book 05:40 Balancing Self-Esteem and Faith 08:01 The Role of Illustrations in Children's Books 10:31 Embracing Individual Differences 14:05 Real-Life Stories and Their Impact 16:32 Resources and Conclusion Resources God Chose Me on Amazon Paraclete Press - Publisher
S13 · E340
June 25 · 19 min
Episode 340: Helping Our Children Embrace Forgiveness
Summary In this episode, we explore the true meaning of forgiveness and reconciliation, especially for children. We discuss practical ways to teach kids about forgiveness through books, analogies, and activities, emphasizing its importance for healthy relationships and spiritual growth. This episode originally aired on Books that Spark on 9/28/2020. Key Topics The true meaning of forgiveness and reconciliation How forgiveness benefits emotional and spiritual health Effective books and analogies to teach children about forgiveness The importance of timing and heart readiness in reconciliation Practical activities and worksheets for teaching forgiveness The role of God's love in forgiving others The impact of unforgiveness on mental and physical health Strategies for helping children process anger and hurt The importance of modeling forgiveness as parents and teachers Biblical principles and verses about forgiveness Sound Bites "Unforgiveness is like having an elephant in your heart." "Forgiveness is a selfless act that benefits us." "True forgiveness is a sacrifice and a spiritual act." Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Forgiveness and Reconciliation 01:13 Understanding Forgiveness: A Deeper Look 05:04 The Importance of Teaching Forgiveness to Children 10:04 Practical Tools for Teaching Forgiveness 12:44 Books That Spark Conversations on Forgiveness Resources Nicole Lataif - I Forgive You. Love We Can Hear - https://amzn.to/4xSBuFm Kevin Hinkies - Lily's Purple Plastic Purse - https://amzn.to/4uOSEkd Amy Dickman - Horrible Bear - https://amzn.to/4w3XZVW William Carlos Williams - "This Is Just To Say" (Poem) - https://www.poetryfoundation.org/poems/43171/this-is-just-to-say Gail Carson Levine - Forgive Me. I Meant To Do It - https://amzn.to/4anM4Km Terrie Hellard-Brown - Izzy's Notebook - https://terriehellardbrown.com/product/izzys-notebook/
S13 · E339
June 17 · 17 min
Episode 339: Lori Wildenberg on Grandparents as Spiritual Influencers
Summary In this episode, Lori Wildenberg shares insights on grandparenting, passing faith, navigating family boundaries, and handling challenging relationships with adult children and in-laws. Discover practical advice rooted in scripture to strengthen family bonds and influence the next generation positively. Key Topics The importance of grandparents in passing faith and morals Scriptural commands for family teaching (Deuteronomy 4:9) Balancing fun and spiritual influence in grandparenting Handling challenging relationships with adult children and in-laws Respect and boundaries in family dynamics Practical advice for difficult family situations (e.g., estranged relationships, abuse) The power of prayer and wisdom in family conflicts Celebrating high points in grandparent-grandchild relationships The importance of respect over love in family interactions Navigating family traditions and holiday schedules Sound Bites "Grandparents are second only to parents in passing faith" "Scripture commands us to teach our children and grandchildren" "Respect is love in plain clothes" Chapters 00:00 The Importance of Grandparenting 02:55 Navigating Spiritual Influence 06:13 Building Relationships Amidst Challenges 09:10 Setting Boundaries and Recognizing Abuse 11:56 Hot Spots in Grandparent-Parent Relationships 22:22 Navigating Respect and Kindness in Family Dynamics 26:57 The Importance of Open Communication and Reconciliation 30:21 Encouragement and Support: The Grandparent's Role 32:14 Celebrating High Points in Grandparent-Parent Relationships 34:28 The Influence of Grandparents in a Changing Culture
S13 · E338
June 12 · 20 min
Episode 338: Two Questions Parents Ask All the Time
Summary In this episode, Terrie Hellard-Brown shares practical advice on teaching apologetics to young children, evaluating parenting effectiveness, and supporting homeschooling families. She emphasizes the importance of understanding truth, addressing sibling rivalry, and praying for your children's spiritual growth. Key Topics Teaching apologetics to young children How to evaluate if you're doing enough as a parent Supporting children with learning disabilities in homeschooling Addressing sibling rivalry and conflict Praying for children's spiritual and emotional well-being Sound Bites "Check out Foundation Worldview for great resources" "If you're asking, most likely you're doing a good job" "Pray for your children in every area of life" Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Episode Overview 00:31 Teaching Apologetics to Toddlers with Foundation Worldview 01:54 Resources and Discounts for Apologetics Education 02:51 How to Know if You're Doing Enough as a Parent 04:20 Signs of Thriving Children and Parental Evaluation 05:42 Addressing Sibling Rivalry and Conflict Resolution 07:37 Setting Respectful Boundaries and Family Rules 10:30 Recognizing When You're a Good Parent 12:21 Understanding Children's Needs and Love Languages 14:19 Praying for Wisdom and Family Peace 15:17 Supporting Children with Learning Difficulties 16:40 Using Audiobooks and Creative Learning Strategies 19:50 Handling High School Subjects and External Help 21:14 Parenting Challenges and Resilience 22:38 Daily Prayer for Children's Spiritual and Emotional Needs 23:33 Encouragement and Invitation for Listener Questions Resources Foundation Worldview You Can Homeschool by Nathan Ritter
S13 · E337
June 4 · 28 min
Episode 337: Gaylyn Williams and Transforming Stress into Spiritual Growth
Summary In this insightful interview, Gaylyn Williams shares practical stress management principles rooted in faith, addressing how parents and caregivers can handle stress, grief, and anxiety, especially in challenging family situations. Discover actionable tips to transform stress into spiritual growth and resilience. Key Topics Stress and internal triggers Impact of grief and unmet expectations Helping children with stress and anxiety Spiritual focus and turning eyes on Jesus Sound Bites "Focusing on Jesus makes problems seem smaller" "His peace surpasses all understanding" "Sign up for 52 free stress management tips" Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Galen Williams and His Work 02:33 Understanding Stress and Its Impact 10:44 The Role of Grief in Stress Management 15:37 Helping Children Manage Stress 20:25 Workshops and Resources for Stress Management 22:41 Focusing on God Amidst Stress Resources RelationshipResources.org - https://relationshipresources.org All Stressed Up and Everywhere to Go (Book) - https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0C7F4XYZ Stress Management Tips Sign-Up - https://relationshipresources.org/stress-tips Website - https://relationshipresources.org
S13 · E336
May 26 · 11 min
Episode 336: A Castle and Creativity - A Look at the Retreat
Summary This episode provides an inside look at a creative retreat for children's writers and illustrators, highlighting planning, activities, and the transformative potential of the event. Key Topics Retreat planning and logistics Activities for writers and illustrators Inspiration and creative growth Takeaways A well-planned retreat can spark creativity and community. Choosing a unique venue like a castle enhances inspiration. Structured activities like scavenger hunts and pitch parties foster growth. Sound Bites "God led us to do this retreat." "Come join us and spark your creativity." "Pitch your story idea to an agent or publisher." Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Everyday Discipleship 01:28 The Purpose of the Retreat 02:58 Planning the Retreat: Challenges and Changes 03:56 Exciting Venue: The Castle Retreat 05:23 Activities and Events Overview 11:44 Daily Schedule and Sessions 15:30 Pitch Party and Closing Events
S13 · E335
May 22 · 31 min· Video
Episode 335: What's Your Why and Your Way as a Writer?
Summary In this episode, Terrie Hellard-Brown explores the various motivations behind writing, from legacy and calling to therapy and personal healing. She offers practical advice on publishing options, the importance of healing before sharing traumatic stories, and how to navigate the publishing industry, including traditional, indie, and hybrid routes. Plus, details about an upcoming retreat for Christian children's book writers and illustrators in Oklahoma. Key Topics Motivations for writing: legacy, calling, therapy Publishing options: traditional, indie, hybrid, vanity Importance of healing before sharing traumatic stories How critique groups and editors improve your manuscript Details about the 2026 children's book writers retreat in Oklahoma Sound Bites "Heal first before sharing traumatic stories." "Patience is key in the publishing process." "Critique groups are invaluable for growth." Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Everyday Discipleship 00:28 The Call to Write 05:00 Writing for Family and Legacy 11:20 Writing as Therapy 16:40 Navigating Publishing Options 20:50 The Traditional Publishing Journey 25:33 Learning the Publishing Business 32:00 Upcoming Retreat Announcement 39:32 Encouragement for Parents and Writers HypurpleyPublishing.com TerrieHellardBrown.com
S13 · E334
May 15 · 16 min
Episode 334: Special on Storybook Inkspiration-Overcoming Fear & Procrastination in Writing
This special episode is for those who are writers and illustrators or who want to become writers and illustrators. We will have our regular episode again at the beginning of June. Summary This episode explores the journey of Christian writers, addressing fears and procrastination that hinder writing, and promoting a transformative writing retreat in a castle in Oklahoma. Host Terrie Hellard-Brown shares insights on overcoming obstacles, the importance of faith, and how to turn writing dreams into reality. Key Topics Fear as a barrier to writing Procrastination and prioritization The spiritual calling of writing Details of the upcoming castle retreat in Oklahoma Strategies for overcoming writer's block and fear Takeaways Fear of judgment cripples many Christian writers, but faith can overcome it. Procrastination often stems from feeling overwhelmed; prioritizing writing is essential. Writing retreats provide clarity, community, and spiritual renewal. Getting started is the hardest part; write even if it's terrible at first. God's calling is bigger than our fears; stepping out in faith is crucial. Sound Bites "You're afraid they'll laugh at you." "Fear not, over 300 times in the Bible." "Write even if it's absolutely terrible." Chapters 00:00 Welcome to Sparking Everyday Discipleship 00:30 The Calling to Write and Share Stories 01:55 The Excitement of the Upcoming Retreat 03:20 Overcoming Fear in Writing 06:44 The Importance of Perspective in Writing 09:36 Confronting Procrastination 12:54 Embracing the Writing Process 13:59 The Retreat Experience and Writing Goals 15:23 Logistics and Final Thoughts on the Retreat
S12 · E333
May 8 · 22 min
Episode 333: The Heart of Patience with Elisha Lee
Summary In this engaging conversation, Elisha Lee discusses her new children's book, 'Patricia Learns Patience,' exploring the challenges of writing for children and the deeper meanings of patience and love. She emphasizes the importance of understanding these concepts before teaching them to children, drawing from her Christian faith. The discussion also covers how parents and educators can use the book to foster meaningful conversations about faith and patience, as well as Elisha's work in counseling and her podcast that integrates mental health with Christian principles. Takeaways Writing for children requires deep self-reflection. Patience is about enjoying the journey, not rushing it. Roadblocks are part of the journey, not the end. Love is the catalyst for change in relationships. Children need to learn patience through relatable stories. Early intervention is crucial for children's development. Parents should be honest about their need for help. Integrating faith with mental health can provide hope. Teaching children about love and patience is essential. Elisha's journey as an author has transformed her personally. Sound Bites 00:00 "Jesus spoke in parables to explain things." 07:30 "We want to enjoy the journey, not rush it." 11:39 "You do not start where you stay." Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Elisha Lee and Her New Book 02:55 The Challenge of Writing for Children 06:10 Understanding Patience and Long-Suffering 08:49 The Importance of the Journey 12:04 Patricia Learns Patience: A Christian Perspective 15:02 Using the Book for Teaching and Conversations 17:54 Elisha's Counseling Practice and Podcast
S13 · E330
March 4 · 21 min
Episode 330: Celebrating Easter with Laura Sassi
Summary Join us as we explore how children's books about the resurrection can teach young children about faith, Jesus' resurrection, and how to introduce spiritual concepts in an age-appropriate way. Laura Sassi shares insights on faith development, storytelling, and practical tips for parents and educators. Sound Bites "Use bright colors to symbolize the joy of Easter." "Avoid graphic depictions to prevent scaring children." "Children's faith development is a lifelong journey." Chapters 00:00Introduction to Laura Sassi's New Book 04:04Exploring the Themes of Resurrection in Children's Literature 06:33Navigating Difficult Conversations with Young Children 09:11The Role of Parents in Faith Development 11:44Personal Stories of Faith and Teaching 14:11The Importance of Prayer and Spiritual Growth 16:44Encouraging Early Exposure to the Gospel 19:22Conclusion and Call to Action 19:52Introduction and Engagement 20:14Encouragement and Empowerment for Discipleship Resources Laura Sassi's Website Easter Activity Kit by Laura Sassi
S13 · E329
February 5 · 22 min
Episode 329: Blessings of God's Love with Glenys Nellist
Summary In this conversation, Glenys Nellist and Terrie Hellard-Brown discuss the significance of children's books that focus on blessings, love, and peace. They explore how these themes are woven into Glenys's book series, emphasizing the importance of positive reinforcement in children's lives. The discussion also touches on the creative process behind writing children's literature and the resources available for parents and educators to enhance the reading experience. Takeaways Children need to hear positive affirmations of love. Books can reinforce the idea that nothing can separate them from God's love. Illustrations play a crucial role in engaging children. Each book in the series has a unique theme and animal representation. Blessings can be personalized with a child's name. The power of words shapes children's self-perception. Blessings should be a lifelong practice, not just for children. Creativity in writing often leads to unexpected outcomes. Resources are available to support the themes of the books. The conversation highlights the importance of community in nurturing children. Sound Bites "Books are not just for children." "You are a blessing and I love you." "Our words have power." Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Bedtime Blessings Series 05:22 Exploring God's Great Love 07:54 The Importance of Blessings in Children's Lives 10:45 Differentiating the Books in the Series 13:23 The Power of Words and Affirmations 16:03 The Role of Blessings Beyond Bedtime 18:47 Future of the Bedtime Blessings Series 21:39 Exploring Bedtime Blessings with Glenys Nellist

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