Episode 334: Special on Storybook Inkspiration-Overcoming Fear & Procrastination in Writing
Sparking Everyday Discipleship
Release Date: 05/15/2026
Sparking Everyday Discipleship
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...
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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...
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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...
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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...
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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...
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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...
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Summary In this episode of Sparking Everyday Discipleship, host Terrie Hellard-Brown discusses her journey in podcasting, focusing on the unique challenges faced by mixed needs families. She shares her favorite Bible recommendations for children and older kids, emphasizing the importance of quality translations and resources for spiritual growth. The episode concludes with encouragement for parents to remain steadfast in their discipleship efforts. Takeaways Terrie is transitioning the podcast to focus on mixed needs families. The new podcast is titled 'Mixed Needs Mama'....
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Summary In this conversation, Terrie Hellard-Brown discusses the importance of building a positive family culture, especially in mixed needs families. She emphasizes the need for clear communication, understanding expectations, and fostering a sense of belonging among family members. The discussion also covers the significance of emotional tone, routines, and the role of extended family dynamics. Terrie outlines a monthly focus for workshops aimed at helping families navigate these challenges and create a supportive environment rooted in faith and resilience. Takeaways Building a...
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In this episode of "Sparking Everyday Discipleship," Terrie Hellard-Brown discusses the significance of bookish gifts for children, especially during the holiday season. She emphasizes the role of books in sparking important conversations and nurturing everyday discipleship within families. The episode features a variety of book recommendations, including those for reluctant readers and biographies of beloved authors, while also highlighting the joy of reading together as a family. Terrie encourages parents to consider their children's unique interests and gifts when selecting books,...
info_outlineSparking Everyday Discipleship
In this episode of Sparking Everyday Discipleship, Terrie Hellard-Brown discusses the significance of creating a meaningful family culture through storytelling, particularly during the Christmas season. She emphasizes the role of nostalgia, emotional connections, and the importance of choosing meaningful movies and books that foster conversations about faith and values. Terrie encourages parents to think critically about the media they consume with their children and to create traditions that will leave lasting memories and impart important lessons.
info_outlineThis 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