Ink and Impact for Christian Writers | How to Write a Book, Self-Publish, Christian Book, Book Marketing, Nonfiction Book
Confused about how to write a book?Struggling to find time to write?Ready to learn a step-by-step process to self-publish like a pro?Welcome to Ink and Impact, the podcast for Christian writers who want to self-publish their first nonfiction book. I’m your host, Dalene Bickel – a Jesus-loving book coach and founder of Lasting Legacies Publishing. I’ve worked in the self-publishing industry for 29 years and I’ve written and published more than a dozen nonfiction books for clients (and myself).What started out as a way to help retirees privately publish their life stories expanded in 2021 when the Lord...
Ep.169 | Publish with Purpose: Standing Out in Today’s Crowded Publishing Marketplace
You’ve poured months, maybe years, into your manuscript. So why do so many Christian authors launch their books to near-silence?
In this unscripted episode of Ink and Impact, author coach and book strategist Dalene Bickel sets aside her usual framework and speaks candidly about what she’s seeing in the publishing industry right now.
Dalene explains why the old “write it and they will come” mindset leaves so many first-time authors disappointed. She also says the real starting point comes before the marketing plan, the launch team, or even the first reader.
In this co...
Ep.168 | The Freedom to Fail: How Intentionality Gets Your Book Written with Larry O'Nan
In this episode of Ink and Impact, host Dalene Bickel talks with Larry O'Nan, a business coach, mentor, and nonprofit consultant with more than 40 years of experience. He is the author of Intentional Living and Giving.
Larry shows why the best Christian nonfiction often grows out of lived experience rather than a formula by sharing what he calls the “freedom to fail” and how it has shaped six decades of his work.
He also tells a story from a recent coffee meeting with an old college friend that may change how you think about the impact...
Ep.167 | One Book or Five? How to Decide What to Write
Torn between too many book ideas—or buried under too much research on one topic?
In this episode, Dalene Bickel shares a simple, faith-centered framework to help you stop overthinking and finally commit to the right book (or books) to write.
Discover why bigger isn't always better, how to spot the difference between book types, and the "rule" that instantly tells you whether your idea is one book or several.
🎧 Listen now, and schedule a book coaching call at dalenebickel.com/coaching.
Send us Fan Mail
Join my Publ...
Ep.166 | Feeling Stuck as an Author? Here's Why "Doing More" Isn't the Answer
Every author has been there: a blinking cursor, a looming deadline, and a manuscript that's gone quiet.
In this episode, host Dalene Bickel breaks down why so many Christian authors mistake busyness for progress and she challenges one of the most common productivity myths in the author world. (Hint: it's not about doing less, it's about doing the right two things at once.)
You'll walk away understanding:
Why "finishing the manuscript first, then marketing" might be costing you readers.The overlooked ingredient that kept Dalene in her seat through her toughest first draft.A si...Ep. 165 | Sharing the Goodness of God Through Your Story with Andy Robinson
In this episode of the Ink and Impact Podcast, host Dalene Bickel sits down with Andy Robinson, a pastor from just south of London, England, and first-time author of The Big C in Me: Life, Hope and Faith on the Road Through Cancer.
Diagnosed with stage four terminal cancer in January 2023, Andy shares how a devastating prognosis launched him into the deepest questions of faith, purpose, and mortality — and ultimately into writing a memoir that's about far more than illness.
The conversation also dives into:
How Andy balanced c...Ep. 164 | Building a Vision-Driven Brand in Today's Christian Marketplace with Dr. Dave Jones
On this episode of the Ink and Impact podcast, host Dalene interviews guest Dr. Dave Jones, a former Air Force member and professional hockey player turned founder of the Christian advertising agency M Is Good.
Dave shares how losing his hockey identity led him to faith-driven mentorship and eventually launching his agency.
Dave advises authors to ground vision in a healthy identity in Christ rather than performance, manage toxic motivators, build community, and market by making your content resonate quickly.
Resources Mentioned in This Episode:
Dave's Marketing Agency: M Is...
Ep. 163 | The 5 Pillars of Author Productivity
In this episode of the Ink and Impact Podcast, Christian book coach Dalene Bickel speaks directly to the authors who are doing all the things, trying all the tools, and running themselves ragged — yet still not seeing the results they had hoped for.
Using a relatable and vivid analogy, Dalene reframes what it really means to be a productive author and shares five key pillars every Christian writer should focus on to cut through the noise, reclaim their time, and move forward with purpose.
If you've ever felt overwhelmed, scattered, or ready to throw in th...
Ep. 162 | 3 Questions Every Christian Author Should Be Ready to Answer
In this episode of the Ink and Impact Podcast, Christian book coach Dalene Bickel reveals three essential questions every Christian author needs to be able to answer before writing or self-publishing their nonfiction book.
From clarifying your book's purpose to examining your deeper motivations as a writer, this episode challenges you to think differently about your author journey.
If you're working on a manuscript, preparing to self-publish, or considering a second edition, you won't want to miss these practical and faith-filled insights.
Resources mentioned in this episode:
Publish With Purp...Ep. 161 | Traditional Publishing Myths Debunked: How First-Time Authors Can Land a Book Deal with Terry Whalin
In this episode of the Ink and Impact Podcast, host Dalene Bickel sits down with publishing veteran Terry Whalin — editor, author, and acquisitions editor at Morgan James Publishing — for an eye-opening conversation about the traditional publishing world.
Terry pulls back the curtain on some of the biggest myths and misconceptions that hold authors back, while sharing insider strategies that could completely change the way you approach your publishing journey.
If you've ever wondered whether traditional publishing is within your reach, this episode is a must-listen that just might surprise you!
Resources Mentioned in This Ep...
Ep. 160 | Is This What's Holding You Back? How to Become the Author God Called You to Be
Are you a Christian author who feels stuck, stalled, or held back from sharing the message God placed on your heart?
In this episode, we uncover the surprising truth behind what is really keeping faith-based writers from finishing and publishing their books — and it may not be what you think.
Drawing from a powerful passage in 2 Corinthians, this episode delivers a convicting and encouraging word that could be the turning point in your writing journey.
Tune in and discover what God has to say about your calling as an author!
Click here t...
Ep. 159 | The Wealth Compass for Authors with David Nassief - How to Steward Your Message and Your Money Well
Money isn't spoken about much in writing circles, which is why I invited David Nassief on to be my guest.
Not only does he share his own inspiring financial journey in this episode, but he also shares how you can steward both your money and your message well.
No matter how much money is in your bank account, you'll benefit from the valuable information David shares.
Be sure to listen in and don't forget to download his free gift to you: The One-Page Wealth C...
Ep. 158 | Do You Need a Book Coach? How a Christian Book Coach Can Help Christian Authors
In today's episode, I explain exactly what a book coach is and how you can know when you need one as a Christian writer.
I have worked in a variety of levels within the publishing industry: First as an editor, then as the founder of Lasting Legacy's Publishing and then, when God called me to specifically call his writers, I became a book coach.
Today I share my passion for helping you get your God-given messages out into the world and explain the benefits of using a book coach.
Click here to learn mo...
Ep.157 | Create a Writing Routine that Actually Works for You
Way back when I was in track in high school, all runners – even us distance runners – were required to run sprints at practice.
These short, concentrated bursts of energy pushed our bodies and stretched our muscles in new ways, ultimately making us better runners.
But…
Sometimes we didn’t feel like running.Sometimes our finish times were lousy. Sometimes we tripped and fell.Yet by the end of the season, we had developed critical skills, formed good habits, and improved our speed, even if ever-so-slightly.
Writing is very similar.
We hav...
Ep.156 - 7 Truths About Writing a Book
Thinking of writing a book?
Fantastic! The world needs more good ones!
But completing your manuscript and turning it into a quality printed book is a journey.
Listen in to discover 7 truths about writing a book that are often overlooked or misunderstood.
Resources:
Snag your copy of my FREE guide, Your Path to Publishing
Connect with Dalene:
Contact - > [email protected]
Podcast -＞Ink and Impact
Substack -＞ Publish with Purpose
...
Ep.155 | Spotify Will Sell Physical Books - What that Means for Authors
Spotfiy just announced that it will begin selling physical books in partnership with BookShop.org this spring.
Listen in to discover what this means for authors ... and the marketing lessons we can learn from Spotify.
Sources:
LinkedIn - Spotify will sell physical books in expansion beyond audio
Wall Street Journal - Spotify, a Major Audiobook Provider, Will Soon Offer Physical Books
Companies Mentioned:
Spotify
BookShop.org
Amazon.com
Next Steps:
Step 1: Join a su...
Ep. 154 - Are You Prepared? 3 Things That Can Thwart Your Author Goals
Before you dive into writing, learn these three things that can thwart you from reaching your author goals this year.
Listen in!
Next Steps:
Step 1: Join a supportive community of nonfiction Christian writers at the free Facebook group Publish Like a Pro.
Step 2: Get more personalized support through 1:1 book coaching at www.dalenebickel.com/bookworthy-coaching
Connect with Dalene:
Contact - > [email protected]
Podcast -＞www.inkandimpact.com
FB/IG/LI -＞@dalenebickel
Send us Fan Mail
Jo...
Ep.153 - Confronting Criticism: 2 Questions Every Author Should Ask Themselves
Whether we ask for it or not, every author receives feedback and often, it's in the form of criticism.
How you respond to that criticism is important.
Today I share the 2 Questions Every Author Should Ask Themselves when they receive real - or perceived - criticism.
Next Steps:
Step 1: Join a supportive community of nonfiction Christian writers at the free Facebook group Publish Like a Pro.
Step 2: Get more personalized support through 1:1 book coaching at www.dalenebickel.com/bookworthy-coaching
Connect with Dalene:
Ep.152 - Have I written enough? Too much? How to know when your manuscript is complete
As I've mentioned before, there are no cookie-cutter solutions for authors.
Such is the case for book length - what might be too long for one reader might be the perfect length for another.
However, there are general rules of thumb and best practices you can use to determine when your manuscript is complete.
I'm going to share 3 of those best practices with you today!
Next Steps:
Step 1: Join a supportive community of nonfiction Christian writers at the free Facebook group Publish Like a Pro.
St...
Ep.151 | Discerning the Will of God for Your Book Project
Do you want to write a book ... or is it the will of God that you write a book?
There's a big difference.
There's nothing wrong with creating a book based on your personal desire to do so, but when God wants you to write a book, it gives your book enhanced meaning and purpose.
The impact will be bigger and can lead to unexpected blessings that you could never have imagined.
This isn't a name it and claim it principle...
Ep.150 | Year in Review and What's to Come - Author Planning
What worked last year ... and what didn't?
What goals do you have for your author career next year?
It's important for every writer to ask themselves these questions.
This episode is more than just a year in review summary, it digs deeper into why certain things may not have worked and showcases the importance of inviting God into your everyday author journey.
Listen in to reflect, plan, and discover 3 resources to help you in the New Year:
Your Path to Publishing (free guide)
1:1 Book...
Ep.149 | BONUS | Taking Consistent Action for God's Glory with Becca Yager
How consistent is your writing schedule right now?Do you feel guilty if you aren't writing for an hour (or more) every day?
It's easy to compare ourselves with others but the reality is we all have different schedules and commitments.
If you're struggling to write more often, you'll be encouraged by my guest Becca Yager as she shares her writing approach, which has less to do with the number of writing sessions and more to do with trusting God and His timing.
Today's interview is the fifth in a series of 6 bonus episodes that s...
5 Book Marketing Tips for Nonfiction Authors (that don't include Amazon ads)
"I wish I hadn't sold so many books," said no author ever.
Authors ALWAYS want to sell more books, but most of the time, they simply don't know HOW.
The good news is that regardless of whether you're a first-time aspiring author or a seasoned multi-book household name, there are ways you can consistently sell more books - yes, even your backlist titles.
Here's a crucial fact you need to know: Nonfiction books are marketed much differently than fiction books. If you've been relying on fiction tactics to sell your nonfiction book, you're pro...
Ep.147 | BONUS | Becoming a Writer for God's Glory with Kim Oswalt
Has God called you to write a book but you don't feel qualified?Do you work full time and wonder how you'd ever fit writing a book into your busy schedule?Have you ever wondered if anyone would even buy your book if you took the time to write it?
If so, you'll be encouraged and inspired by Kim Oswalt who shared those same questions but decided to simply step out in obedience to become the writer God called her to be.
Today's interview is the fourth in a series of 6 bonus episodes that shine a spotlight...
Ep.146 | Are You Ready to Self-Publish Your Nonfiction Book? 6 Questions to Ask Yourself Before You Launch
Are you ready to self-publish your nonfiction book?
Are you 100% certain?
Maybe the deadline is looming and you're scurrying around, trying to do all the last-minute things. But have you taken the time to honestly evaluate the big-picture things that can make or break your book's success?
Anyone can learn how to write a book. You need to create one that stands out.
And the majority of authors (both traditional and self-published) sell fewer than 100 copies. Ever. Not just on launch day, but cumulatively across the months and years after launch.<...
Ep.145 | BONUS | Creating a Legacy for God's Glory with Sally Chetwynd
Have you ever been led to include something in your book that seems completely random?Do you wonder how networking applies to authors?Are you overlooking opportunities to serve others with your writing?
In today's episode, you'll learn how God can use your past experiences and current talents to create a meaningful legacy in a variety of unexpected ways.
This interview is the third in a series of 6 bonus episodes that shine a spotlight on just a few of the amazing members of my Christian Authors in Action community.
Most podcast interviews talk...
Ep.144 | How to Write a Profitable Nonfiction Book
Are you ready to write a profitable nonfiction book?
If so, today's episode is for you.
Just to be clear, today's episode isn't about marketing tips and sales strategies - I'll talk more about those in future episodes. Before you get upset and accuse me of clickbait, I encourage listen through to the end.
You'll soon discover that profitability extends far beyond our bank accounts.
In fact, it starts with a focus on your readers.
If you don't write a book that meets readers' expectations, no amount of m...
Ep.143 | BONUS | Leaning into Community for God's Glory with Kristy Horine
Have you ever found yourself ostracized from a group you thought was your tribe?Have you ever doubted that you can be accepted for who you are?Have you ever felt somewhat adrift after the frenzy of finishing a book on a tight deadline?
If so, you'll relate with today's guest and benefit from her insights and infectious joy.
Today's interview is the second in a series of 6 bonus episodes that shine a spotlight on just a few of the amazing members of my Christian Authors in Action community.
Most podcast interviews talk to authors a...
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!
Send us Fan Mail
Join my Publish with Purpose Substack communi...
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.
Send us Fan Mail
Join my Publish with Purpose Substack community for industry updates, live Q&A sessions, and to connect with fellow Christian writers!
