Ink and Impact for Christian Writers | How to Write a Book, Nonfiction, Author, Self Publishing, Christian Book
Hey there! I’m Dalene - a Jesus-loving mom and founder of Lasting Legacies Publishing. Twenty years ago, I accepted my first ghostwriting project. Even though I had been a manuscript editor for almost a decade by that point, I had never actually written a book before. Faced with that first book project, I was both excited and terrified.I knew how to write a book in theory, but I had no clue how to do it in practice. So I turned to the Internet. I listened to bits and pieces of advice from numerous experts, which caused confusion and overw...
Ep.142 | No Time to Write a Book? 3 Solutions for Busy Christian Entrepreneurs
You're a Christian entrepreneur who has heard all the benefits of writing a book -
attract new clients, become seen as an authority or thought leader in your field, be invited to speak on bigger stages...That all sounds great, but you have an even bigger purpose than that. You want to share your expertise to help others and make a meaningful Kingdom impact.
And all of that sounds like it will take a lot of time and effort.
You WANT to write a book but you...
Ep.141 | BONUS | How to Use Your Creativity for God's Glory with Holly Beals
This interview with artist and writer Holly Beals is the first in a series of 6 bonus episodes to shine a spotlight on a few of the amazing members of my Christian Authors in Action community.
Listen in to discover how you can tap into your own creativity and apply simple strategies and processes to become more focused and productive during your writing sessions.
CONNECT WITH HOLLY BEALS
Website - https://hollybeals.com/
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/hollybeals/
Join Holly and Dalene inside the Christian Authors in A...
Self-Publishing Success for Nonfiction Christian Writers - Free Masterclass
Get ready to make an impact AND an income from your book.
In this 1-hour live masterclass you'll learn:
How to get laser-focused on your publishing goalsMy signature self-publishing frameworkThe 3 keys to selling more books and generating more income opportunities
Sign up today to make sure you don't miss it.
Remember, it's completely FREE!
Register here and invite a fellow writing friend!
What additional topics would you like to learn about?
Ready to write and se...
Ep.139 | Ready to Get Your Book Project Off the Back Burner? 3 Tips for Christian Writers
Have you felt God nudging you to write a book, but you haven't started it yet?
Or maybe He called you to write a book years ago and you began the project, but then you allowed distractions to cause you to place it on the back burner.
Maybe you've been keeping that book simmering in the background, occasionally giving it a stir, but maybe you turned off the heat, walked away, and let it grow cold.
Regardless of how long your book's been sitting on that back burner, it's time to move it t...
138 | Overwhelmed as an Author? Focus on These 2 Things!
If you're trying to write a book but are constantly second guessing your every step ...If you feel overwhelmed by all the to-dos on your self-publishing checklist ...If you're constantly distracted and unfocused in your writing efforts, orIf you're simply not even sure why you're writing anymore,
This episode is for you!
In a world that gets crazier every day, it's critical that we work with clarity and purpose.
And in a world that's constantly telling us we need to do this, that, AND the other thing to be successful, it's important for...
137 | Struggling to Get Readers? 4 Simple Things You Can Do NOW to Sell More Books!
Have you ever wondered:
"How can I reach more readers?""How can I sell more books?""How can I improve my book marketing efforts?"If so, you're not alone. I don't know a single author who wouldn't like to sell more books and reach more readers to make a bigger impact.
The good news is that in order to sell more books, you don't have to spend a fortune or block off large chunks of time.
You just need to apply the four simple strategies I share in today's episode of the Ink...
136 | 5 Things You Should NOT Do if You Want to Self-Publish a Book that Sells
Self-publishing offers a host of benefits, including - and most importantly - that you get to retain all the rights to your content and you have full access to all of your marketing analytics.
But in order to actually sell books and make the kingdom impact you want to make, you have to self-publish strategically.
In today's episode, I'm sharing 5 things you should NOT do in order to self-publish a book that sells.
Go grab a pen and notebook and let's dive in!
...
135 | Hesitant to Build Your Author Brand? 3 Mindset Shifts for Christian Writers
Have you ever said something like:
"I don't want to market myself.""I want to give God the glory, not myself.""I'm writing a book to help others, not puff myself up."Those are all valid concerns. As Christians, we absolutely should give God all the glory and focus on serving others rather than ourselves.
But I don't think that means Christian writers aren't supposed to build an author brand.
Quite the contrary.
I believe it's important to let potential readers get to know you, the author.
Ep.134 | Constantly Distracted? 4 Ways to Get Focused and Write a Book Faster
Are you busy and distracted by all your day-to-day responsibilities?Trying to figure out how to fit writing a book into your already overcommitted schedule?Wish you could achieve a different level of focus?
In this episode of Ink & Impact, I’m sharing 4 simple and practical writing strategies so you can finally get focused and write your book faster.
Related Resources:
Snag a free copy of Your Path to Publishing
Ep.129 - How to Write a Book Faster (without Generative AI...
Writing Your First Christian Book? 3 Tips for Beginning Authors | Ep.133
A couple of years ago I hosted a morning coffee chat for Christian writers in my area. Later that day, I received a message from someone I had invited who asked, “How do you know if you’re a Christian writer?”
She had been interested in attending, but didn’t go because she didn’t feel qualified.
Remembering this led me to create today's.
Listen in to discover 3 tips for beginning authors who are writing their first Christian book.
Schedule a 1:1 Coaching Call
New and refreshed...
2 Strategic Actions You Can Take Now to Make a Bigger Impact with Your Book | Ep.132
Two Strategic Actions You Can Take to Make a Bigger Impact with Your Book
When I say there are two strategic actions for Christian authors, my guess is that you're immediately thinking of "Sunday School answers" such as prayer and reading our Bibles daily.
Those are, indeed, habits and treasured moments with God we want to build into our daily lives. That should go without saying.
But that's not what I'm going to talk about today. Today, I'm going deeper.
Let me warn you that what I share might ste...
In a Writing Slump? Do This to Create a Productive Writing Routine | Ep.131
Are you in a writing slump?
If your writing has been pushed aside for the past three months simply because you've been wanting to enjoy all that summer offers, there's no shame in that.
But now it's time to return to what God has called you to do and pick up that pen again. There's kingdom work to be done!
To help you, I've put together 3 tips to get you out of your writing slump and back into a productive writing routine. That's what I'm going to share with y...
3 Ways to Market a Book and Reach More Readers Even Before It's Published | Ep.130
Today I share 3 marketing strategies you can begin to implement now to help promote your book and reach more readers even before it's published.
Listen in to learn what they are!
Schedule a 1:1 coaching session with me.
What additional topics would you like to learn about?
Ready to write and self-publish your first nonfiction book and make a kingdom impact? Join the FREE Publish Like a Pro Facebook group!
How to Write a Book Faster (WITHOUT Generative AI) Ep.129
Some writers are tempted to use generative AI to write a book (in part or in whole) because it takes time and effort, perseverance and fortitude.
And for the author who wants their book out there RIGHT NOW, they don't want to bother going through the learning curve or putting in the days/weeks/months to write the book.
This episode isn't for those types of authors.
This episode is for the Christian writer who wants to write a book faster the ethical way by taking advantage of 5 tried-and-true, time-saving strategies.
...128 | How to Market Your Book without Feeling Salesy or Spammy
Which of the following best describes your current thoughts about marketing?
Are you an author who stresses over book marketing so much you avoid it as much as possible?Do you want to get your book into the hands of your readers, but you simply don't know how?Are you afraid of marketing too much and annoying all your followers/subscribers?Regardless of which one resonated most with you, make sure you listen the whole way to the end of today's episode because I'm going to share 5 ways to market your book without feeling salesy...
Is Fear of Success Holding You Back? (Ep.127)
Is fear of success holding you back?
If so ... or if you're not sure ... or if you know another writer who is struggling with this fear, then this episode is for you!
Today I'm going to share practical advice from a biblical perspective to help you become a confident author who's willing and able to make a true impact.
But before I dive in, I want to let you know that in August, I've opened up my calendar to accept (3) 1:1 coaching calls each week.
Your Author Journey - Actions that Lead to Traction (Ep.126)
Whether you're in the writing, publishing, or marketing phase of your book, the success of your author journey relies on the actions that you take.
If you feel as though you've tried everything and still aren't getting anywhere, this episode is for you.
Listen in to discover the actions that actually lead to traction.
Ready to develop a tailored action plan that you can implement immediately? Book a coaching call!
Want to learn more about my done-for-you ghostwriting and publishing packages instead? Book a ...
Cultivating Your Message: Maximizing Impact Without Compromising Values (Ep.125)
Your expertise is a gift. Discover how to strategically leverage your book for maximum reach and influence, all while remaining true to your deepest convictions.
There are a lot of questionable tactics and advice out there in the publishing world so in today's episode, I'm going to cut to the chase and share how you can cultivate your message without compromising your values.
Schedule a 1-hour coaching session with me to:
discover exactly what you should write about receive a chapter audit, ORestablish a publishing pl...7-Step Framework for Writing a Book with Purpose (Ep.124)
If you're wondering how to write a book with purpose, this episode of the Ink and Impact podcast is for you!
No fluff, no frills - just the basic info you need to write a God-honoring book that serves your readers well.
Book your 1:1 Bookworthy coaching call today to develop your custom writing, publishing, and marketing plan that will enable you to complete your book this year.
What additional topics would you like to learn about?
Ready to write and self-publish your first nonfiction book and make a kingdom...
How to Find Time to Write Your Book - 4 Strategies Successful Authors Use (Ep.123)
Don't have time to write your book?
Think again!
In this episode, I share 4 simple strategies you can find time to write your book in 3-6 months.
Listen in!
Schedule your 1:1 Coaching Call here.
What additional topics would you like to learn about?
Ready to write and self-publish your first nonfiction book and make a kingdom impact? Join the FREE Publish Like a Pro Facebook group!
Filling Your Tank as an Author: How to Fuel Up to Reach Your Goal (Ep.122)
Are you running low on empty as a Christian indie author?
Feeling stressed, overwhelmed, overcommitted, and not getting anywhere?
If so, it's time to fill your tank so you're able to cross the finish line and reach your publishing goal.
Listen in to learn 5 ways to fuel your tank so you can confidently and powerfully launch your book into the world.
Join the Facebook group for monthly masterclasses, timely tips, and regular encouragement.
Join the Christian Authors in...
Unlock Your Potential: How to Become a More Confident Author in 5 Steps (Ep.121)
In this episode, I'm diving deep into practical, faith-filled strategies to help you embrace your calling and become a more confident author.
Join me as I share the two core reasons many writers lack confidence and unpack five memorable steps to build your trust in God's plan and your belief in your own unique gifts. From remembering your identity in Christ to strategically reviewing your successes, these insights will empower you to step into the author you were meant to be.
Christian Authors in Action Facebook G...
3 Common Misconceptions About Writing a Book (Ep.120)
Are you an aspiring author dreaming of publishing your book, but feeling overwhelmed by the journey ahead? In this episode, I'm tackling the three most common misconceptions about writing a book that often trip up new authors. Discover how to set realistic expectations, establish healthy boundaries, and become a more confident and productive writer.
In this episode, you’ll learn:
The truth about income and opportunities: Why a book doesn't automatically generate income or open doors, and what you really need to do to attract your ideal audience and achieve yo...How to Improve Your Book Sales ... even before it's published (Ep.119)
Are you an indie author hoping to make a real impact with your book, but struggling with how to get it into the hands of more readers?
Many authors wait until their book is published to start marketing, missing out on crucial opportunities to build a loyal readership. In this episode, we're diving deep into the top three things you should focus on before your book even hits the shelves to dramatically boost your book sales.
Join host Dalene Bickel as she debunks the common misconception that marketing only begins after p...
Embrace These 3 Traits to Make an Impact as a Christian Writer (Ep.118)
Discover how you can supercharge your writing life - and make an impact as an author - by employing these 3 powerful traits of Christian writers.
Join the Indie Author Bootcamp
May 19-23, 2025 @ noon EST
#inkandimpact
#christianauthorsinaction
What additional topics would you like to learn about?
Ready to write and self-publish your first nonfiction book and make a kingdom impact? Join the FREE Publish Like a Pro Facebook group!
Mastering the Fundamentals to Make Your Book Stand Out (Ep.117)
In this episode of the Ink & Impact podcast, learn the four essential fundamentals to make your book stand out in the crowded publishing market.
Hot tip: It's not about speed, but quality!
Join Dalene Bickel at the Indie Author Bootcamp next week, May 19-23, 2025, at noon EST to learn valuable insights on writing, self-publishing, and marketing your book while also implementing what you learn! Register here
Let 2025 be your breakthrough year as a Christian author!
This episode:
00:00 Introduction: Stand Out in a Cr...
3 Things Authors Should Do Every Day (Ep.116)
Ready to uplevel your author journey?!?
Be sure to do these 3 things every day!
They aren't complicated.
They're not fancy.
Just 3 basic actions you can start doing TODAY to gain momentum and reach your author goals.
JOIN THE CHRISTIAN AUTHORS IN ACTION FB GROUP!
REGISTER FOR THE INDIE AUTHOR BOOTCAMP!
May 19-23, 2025
12:00 PMT
What additional topics would you like to learn about?
Ready to write and self-publish your first nonfiction book and make a kingdom impact? Join the F...
How to Write a Book When You Don't Know Where to Start (Ep.115)
Do you dream of writing a book but feel completely lost on where to begin? Welcome to the Ink & Impact podcast, where your host Dalene Bickel provides practical, no-nonsense guidance for aspiring Christian indie authors.
In this episode, "How to Write Your Book When You Don't Know Where to Start," Dalene breaks down the crucial first 5 sequential steps you can take today to transform your book idea into a published reality.
These are proven strategies Dalene uses herself and with her coaching clients to gain clarity and momentum in the book-writing process.
The #1 Thing You Need to Do TODAY to Become a Successful Author
Have you ever wondered what it takes to become a successful author?
In this episode of the Ink & Impact podcast, book coach Dalene Bickel reveals the single most crucial thing aspiring and established authors need to take today to make real progress.
Key Takeaways:
Discover the #1 thing that separates aspiring authors from successful ones.Understand why simply talking about your book won't lead to publication or readership.Learn why a one-size-fits-all approach doesn't work for authors.Get five foundational activities you can start implementing t...Stop Chasing the Bestseller List! The Real Keys to Author Success (Ep.113)
Ever wondered what it really takes to be a bestselling author?
This insightful episode pulls back the curtain on the truth behind bestseller status, revealing what truly drives author success and lasting impact. Host Dalene Bickel dissects the reality of becoming an "Amazon Bestseller" – from rapidly changing rankings and the power of niche marketing to the surprising ways bestseller lists can be influenced.
Thinking of hitting the New York Times bestseller list or the USA Today bestseller list? Dalene exp...
Author Marketing Secrets: How to Sell More Books Beyond Amazon (Coaching Call) - Ep.112
Schedule your 1:1 coaching session here before the 4 remaining spots are gone!
In this episode, host Dalene Bickel shares her one-on-one coaching session with author Mel Pitts. Discover practical author marketing secrets to boost your own book sales, regardless of your publishing stage. Learn how to reach your target audience and effectively market your book beyond Amazon.
Key Topics Covered:
Breaking Free from Amazon ExclusivityTargeting Your Ideal Reader (Beyond Amazon's Algorithm)Leveraging IngramSpark for Bookstore DistributionEffective Social Media EngagementBuilding Relationships with Bookstores and LibrariesEbook Marketing StrategiesEncouraging Reviews a...Goal Setting for Christian Writers - 5 Steps to Write with Purpose and Impact
Are you a Christian writer seeking clarity and direction in your author journey?
Schedule your 1:1 Coaching Session today to grab one of only 5 spots left before prices increase next month!
This episode provides a powerful framework for goal setting that will help you write with purpose and make a lasting impact.
Discover the 5-step acronym "GOALS" and learn how to align your writing with God's glory, benefit your readers, utilize your abilities, overcome limitations, and strategically plan for sales.
Whether you're just starting or looking to...
Why Your Author Voice Matters (And How Mine Saved My College Career!)
Have you ever wondered why your voice as a writer is so important?
In this episode, Dalene shares a captivating story of how her voice literally saved her college career and reveals the three key reasons why your author voice matters, especially as a Christian aspiring author.
Discover how your unique identifier sets you apart, how your voice is a gift from God, and how powerful your words can be.
If you're ready to learn how to write a book that resonates with your audience and master effective book marketing strategies, thi...
Kick Imposter Syndrome to the Curb - How to Become a Confident Writer (Ep.109)
Are you struggling with feelings of imposter syndrome?
You know, the belief that you don't know enough or aren't qualified enough to write and share your God-given message.
Imposter syndrome is often the result of comparison, a lack of confidence, and/or fear of not hitting certain standards or goals (aka perfectionism).
If you've recently asked yourself, "Who am I to write this book?" and doubted your credentials or writing ability, be sure to listen to today's episode.
You'll away a more confident writer!
Resources Mentioned i...
How to Write a Book that Sells (and Readers Recommend) - Ep.108
Writing a book that makes an impact takes forethought and strategy.
In today's episode, Dalene Bickel shares five ways to write a book that readers will buy and recommend.
Leave a voice message via SpeakPipe.
Work with Dalene:
1:1 book coaching session (single)
1:1 book coaching sessions (ongoing)
What additional topics would you like to learn about?
Ready to write and self-publish your first nonfiction book and make a kingdom impact? Join the FREE Publish Like a Pro Facebook group!
Book Publishing Trends in 2025 - What You Need to Know as an Indie Author (Ep.107)
Keeping up with trends in the publishing industry is important for all authors, but especially indie authors like you.
In today's episode, Dalene Bickel discusses the 11 trends outlined by Andrew Rhomberg in his article, "The Future of Book Publishing - 2025 and Beyond."
Book recommendation:
Stitching Your Story Piece by Peace: A 13 Week Devotional Pursuing the Peace of God by Naomi Fata
Related episodes of the Ink & Impact podcast:
Relationship Building for Authors with Naomi Fata (Ep.35)
Ex...
5 Steps to Navigating the Self-Publishing Process (Ep.106)
Things don't always go as planned.
In this episode, you'll learn how to handle the unexpected disruptions and obstacles that will inevitably materialize throughout your author journey.
Be sure to respond to the poll!
Do you want to see more content about:
How to write life storyHow to self-publish your book How to market your bookShare your vote via voice message!
Resources Mentioned in this Episode:
1:1 Coaching Session - a single breakthrough session to g...Why Your Book Matters - A Call for Christian Writers (Ep.105)
This episode is a clarion call to Christian writers to remember who you are in Christ and why your book matters.
The stakes are high, my friend.
Listen in.
Author Marketing Lab
Become a better marketer and sell more books, not just through mere information, but also through actual application. Each session covers one particular aspect of author marketing and you'll have an opportunity to have your marketing assets reviewed by the group in real time.
Each monthly session is held on the final Friday...
The 3 Best Places to Find an Editor (Ep.104)
Join the new Author Marketing Lab! The first monthly session begins Friday, January 31, 2025. Register today!
In today's episode, you'll discover the 3 Best Places to Find an Editor PLUS:
Send me a voice message!
Answer the question of the week, provide general feedback, or suggest a topic for a future episode - I...
How to Avoid Burnout as an Indie Author (Ep.103)
You know when you set out to write a book and it seemed so straightforward - just transfer the message or story in your head into a typed document and then send it to a publisher and boom! You're a published author!
But then you sat down to write and you experienced writer's block, so you turned to Google, joined some FB groups, and listened to some podcast episodes, only to discover that in addition to overcoming that hurdle of actually writing the manuscript, you also need to build a platform, grow an email list, post on...
