Meet the Authors Who Make Great Guests
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Why you need quiet time in unquiet seasons; how to make room for quiet time when you have no time
Karynthia Phillips
Karynthia Glasper Phillips (DMin, United Theological Seminary) has been bivocational as an ordained minister and a physician assistant in family medicine for over two decades. She is an award-winning author, conference speaker, and adjunct professor. Her concern for the continuity of care to prevent and restore the health of spirit, mind, and body catalyzes her messages. She demonstrates that self-preservation can be lost in the rush of productivity. She gently reminds her patients and audience of the importance of loving themselves enough to harness the value of intentionality for personal well-being in quiet time. Karynthia and her husband live in Nashville.
Phillips provides a biblical foundation for why quiet time with God is vital to the Christian life and helps you evaluate where you are in your relationship with God. The book concludes with a seven-day retreat guide, providing an immediate opportunity to let go of distractions, embrace stillness, and step into the fullness of God's presence. Press Pause invites you to intentionally pause amid the stress and busyness of life—not by adding more to your schedule but by finding ways to integrate God into the moments you already have.
Linda Evans Shepherd
Linda Evans Shepherd is an award-winning author of 40 books and a trusted voice on prayer, faith, and emotional healing. She is the CEO of Right to the Heart Ministries and the founder of the Advanced Writers and Speakers Association (AWSA), which equips Christian communicators around the world. A sought-after speaker, media guest, and prayer leader, Linda helps people move from anxiety to peace by grounding their prayers in Scripture.
Her newest book, Praying the Word: 90 Scripture-Powered Prayers to Calm an Anxious Heart, from Christian Art Gifts, grew out of her own practice of praying God’s Word during seasons when words were hard to find. Through Scripture-anchored prayers and gentle prompts, Linda shows readers how God’s Word brings clarity, trust, and calm while waiting on Him.
Linda also publishes Leading Hearts Magazine and the Arise Daily Devotional, reaching thousands with encouragement and biblical truth.
Media Talking Points:
How did you become known as a prayer expert, and why did you begin praying God’s Word?
For someone unfamiliar, what does it mean to pray God’s Word, and how does it change prayer?
Your prayers address anger, anxiety, fear, and shame. Why are these emotions so powerful—and so hard to bring honestly to God?
You describe worry like a restarting rollercoaster. Why is anxiety so persistent, and how does praying Scripture interrupt that cycle?
Many people stop praying because they fear saying the wrong thing. What would you say to someone who feels spiritually inadequate?
Your prayers follow a rhythm—Scripture first, then conversation, then peace. Why is beginning with God’s Word so important?
You’ve experienced moments of sudden fear when everything felt out of control. How did you pray, and how did God steady you?
Jackie Freeman
Jackie Freeman is a storyteller at heart, inviting readers to find meaning, hope, and joy in both the ordinary and unexpected moments of life. An author and speaker, she writes from lived experience, shaped by profound loss and sustained by a deep faith in God. After the deaths of her husband and parents, words became a place of healing, guiding her into a new season marked by trust, reflection, and renewed purpose.
Her newest release, Pickleball Parables: Inspiration On and Off the Court, weaves together faith-filled insight, gentle humor, and lessons drawn from the fast-growing sport of pickleball. With warmth and wisdom, Jackie encourages readers to see the court, and life itself, as a place where perseverance, community, and grace can be cultivated.
Jackie is also a beloved children’s author. I’m Okay, Momma! tenderly introduces young readers to the Fruit of the Spirit, while Bend Your Knees, Louise! A Pickleball Primer offers a joyful introduction to the sport and became an Amazon bestseller. Her devotional works include Unwrapping Christmas, an Advent journey centered on Christmas music, and Keep a Song in Your Heart: Musical Notes for Daily Devotions, which pairs spiritual reflection with music through curated Spotify playlists.
Whether writing or speaking, Jackie’s heart is to come alongside others, encouraging them to walk confidently with God and to discover hope, joy, and purpose in every season of life.
Possible Interview Questions:
1. What inspired you to write Pickleball Parables, and how did your journey with faith and grief shape the stories within?
2. How do you see the sport of pickleball as a metaphor for the Christian walk?
3. Each devotional has a blend of scripture, personal story, and life application. What is your process for connecting these elements together?
4. What audience did you have in mind when writing this devotional, and what do you hope that they take away from it, whether or not they play pickleball?
5. Can you share a favorite devotional from the book and tell us why it's personally meaningful to you? 6. What's next for you in terms of writing, ministry, or your involvement in the pickleball community?
Ashley Buchanan
Ashley (Buchanan) Sorensen is an inspirational author and speaker. She helps trauma and abuse survivors find their value in Christ and claim more for their lives. She loves helping others thrive and live powerful, confident, abundant lives through Christ.
Book info
90 Reflections From God, From Iowa, From Me is a devotional meant to make Christianity simple and applicable to today's world. Life can be hard, and Ashley aims to bring encouragement as well as a unique perspective on scripture from the Bible. This devotional is filled with personal stories meant to entertain and share things learned through Ashley's spiritual walk with God. She believes that God can work all things for good even the really ugly things in life. She is happy to share anything from her life that can help benefit someone else.
Michelle Medlock Adams
Michelle Medlock Adams is an inspirational speaker and a best-selling author of more than 100 books, including Dinosaur Devotions, The Christmas Devotional and Dachshund Through the Snow. She is also a New York Times best-selling ghostwriter and has won more than 90 industry awards, including an ECPA Gold Medallion for Our God is Bigger Than That! Michelle is married to her high school sweetheart, Jeff, and they have two married daughters, six adorable grandchildren, and two spoiled miniature dachshunds. When not writing or teaching writing, she enjoys cheering on Indiana University in sports, watching Doris Day movies, and all things leopard print. www.michellemedlockadams.com
Possible Interview Questions:
What motivated you to write "Love Is"?
Please share the story behind the story of "Love Is" that involves your father?
You write for both adults and children, which is more difficult? Which do you prefer?
What other books have you written about love?
If you could impart one piece of wisdom to parents of young children, what would it be?
Michele Chynoweth
Michele Chynoweth is the bestselling author of several award-winning contemporary suspense novels that re-imagine Old Testament stories from the Bible in an edgy, modern-day way. They include The Jealous Son, a modern murder mystery based on the biblical story of Cain and Abel, which is being made into a major motion picture by Word Alive Films, which she and actress Catherine Lidstone from "The Chosen" have founded. Michele is also a sought-after conference speaker, professional editor, book coach, and founder of “Your Book Done Right” Master Class and Elite Coaching. A former news reporter, ad agency owner and marketing director, she lives with her husband in North East, Maryland. Michele has won several book awards including the CIPA Christian Indie Book Award, Selah Award and the AWSA Golden Scroll Award for Contemporary Fiction. Visit her at www.michelechynoweth.com
Word Alive Films, founded by bestselling author Michele Chynoweth and "The Chosen" actress Catherine Lidstone, is producing a slate of entertaining AND inspirational films that re-imagine Old Testament stories…premiering with The Jealous Son. The slate features Michele’s five award-winning “Modern Day Bible Stories” or contemporary biblical suspense novels which have built-in audiences, accolades, and universal themes. The Jealous Son is a modern murder mystery based on the Bible story of Cain and Abel that shows what happens when envy, fueled by addiction and mental illness, goes too far. Catherine will be starring, playing the contemporary character based on Eve, who struggles with her own demons of mother guilt, remorse, and drug addiction fueled by the pain of her losses. She currently plays Mary of Bethany in "The Chosen," and has starred in multiple other movies and TV shows including opposite Kelsey Grammer in "Proven Innocent." An award-winning recording artist, Catherine will also be singing a song in the film as well as co-producing the movie with Michele. www.wordalivefilms.com
Jeanne Roberson
Jeanne Roberson is a human trafficking survivor and advocate, as well as a Christian author, actress, and speaker. Her primary focus is to educate and raise awareness about the grooming aspect of human trafficking and how to help parents and others identify the warning signs. Her passion for inspiring hope, faith, and strength, while encouraging others to cultivate a deeper relationship with God, is the driving force behind her message. She is the author of Shattered For Glory: A Human Trafficking Survivor’s Journey to Freedom and is a contributing author to multiple compilations, including Guidepost, The Short and Sweet Series, Radical Abundance, and Roaring Lambs-Chosen to Live. Her acting career has spanned over three decades in television, theater, and film.
To contact Jeanne Roberson
Web. inspiringsouls.com
Email. [email protected]
Amarely Quintanilla
Amarely was raised in Northern California and now lives in the suburbs of Denver. She has a B.A. in Psychology from Azusa Pacific University and an M.A. in Journalism from the University of Colorado at Boulder. She has worked in Broadcast Journalism and Finance. She currently writes both fiction and non-fiction books.
Interview Topics:
Walking honestly and simply with God
Surrender as a pathway to transformation
Taking Off the "Christian" Mask
Mercy
Hypocrisy
Spiritual healing
Transformation
Spiritual growth
Debra A. Elrod
Debra Elrod is a Surrendered Believer, wife, mother, Bible teacher, Business leader, Veteran, Author & certified speaker. She is the Founder & Executive Director for Narrow Gate Now Ministries, Inc., connecting Business Leaders to Biblical Business Principles, and President of Propel Industries, a business development firm targeting the automotive manufacturing sector.
She holds a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration, Majoring in Marketing, Specializing in Advertising, and Public Relations from WSU. An Army Veteran, honorably discharged with Good Conduct and Army achievement Medals. Her career spans over 30 years in the automotive manufacturing industry. She has served as a small business owner/entrepreneur, growing annual sales to $1M, and as an executive and VP for multi-million & billion-dollar global manufacturers. An award-winning author, her books Discovering Your Spiritual DNA and Surrendered-Discovering God’s Will for Your Life integrate theology, psychology, neurology, and supernatural intervention to guide readers toward complete wholeness and purpose. Both received AWSA Honorable Mention Awards. She’s been featured in premier articles in Leading Hearts Magazine. You can connect with her at www.narrowgatenow.com and Booth #208 NRB2026.
Debra A. Elrod
Narrow Gate Now Ministries, Inc.
Executive Director
Website: www.narrowgatenow.com
Tel : 615-955-1552
Email : [email protected]
P.O. Box 680252
Franklin, TN 37068
Biblical Business Leadership in the marketplace. The Mind and Soul development from the womb to early adulthood. The effects of trauma, unacceptable behaviors, and family expectations, which fuel decision-making for a lifetime. Complete wholeness from the applied Word of God and submission to the leading of the Holy Spirit.
Cara Shine
Cara Shine is a Lay Pastor, Author, Speaker, Retired Elementary School teacher, and Bible Study teacher with a surprising testimony of finding Jesus in the midst of chaos and fear.
Raised in the Jewish faith, Cara spent much of her early life feeling rejected and judged by the Christians around her. The bullying she endured as a child left lasting scars, shaping her view of Jesus and her sense of belonging.
But everything changed in the fall of 2002, during the terrifying three-week reign of the DC sniper attacks. As a young mom and schoolteacher paralyzed by anxiety, Cara encountered Christians who showed her the true heart of Christ through love, kindness, and courage. What followed was what she calls a “Holy ripple effect” that transformed her life, her faith, and her purpose.
If you’ve ever been afraid to share your faith, unsure of how to reflect Jesus to others, or burdened by the actions of those who misrepresented Him, Cara's story will reignite your passion to lovingly share the Gospel.
Tama Fortner
TAMA FORTNER is an ECPA award-winning and bestselling author with more than sixty titles to her credit, including her latest releases Prayers for Each Moment, Everyday Joys Devotional; God, I Feel Sad; and God, I Feel Scared. She is the writer behind the million-selling Indescribable for Kids series with Louie Giglio, as well as a number of books in the Jesus Calling children’s line, including the wildly successful Jesus Calling: 365 Devotions for Kids. Tama has collaborated with such well-known authors as Max Lucado, Levi Lusko, and Sadie Robertson Huff to create inspirational books for all ages.
In addition to writing books, Tama’s articles and devotions have been featured in numerous publications, including Woman’s Day, Crosswalk.com, Arise Daily, and on KHCB radio blog. She has been a guest on television’s Today in Nashville, as well as such podcasts as Monica Swanson/Boy Mom, AllMomDoes, Growing Home Together, Open Door Sisterhood, Pardon the Mess, and more.
Tama’s upcoming releases include Serah and the First Christmas: A Story of Being Seen and Loved (Zonderkidz, 2026) and a to-be-titled kids’ devotional (Tyndale, 2026).
Tama and her husband have two children who have grown up much too fast for their mama’s liking. She lives on the outskirts of Nashville, Tennessee, with her family and two feisty little pups who are convinced they’re people too. Learn more at www.TamaFortner.com.
PRAYERS FOR EACH MOMENT:
• How can people best use Prayers for Each Moment to cultivate lives of prayer?
• What inspired you to write a prayer book? Is prayer a spiritual discipline that you’ve struggled with in your faith journey?
• How do you see prayer as both a gift and an invitation from God? What are the joys and benefits of accepting?
• Why do you think we are called to pray without ceasing? What practical ways can we break down this idea so that it does not feel so overwhelming?
• Do you have a favorite prayer found either in this prayer book, or one you use in your personal life?
• Do you find it more challenging to pray in hard moments or happy moments? Do you have any examples of times you knew you needed to pray, but just could not do it?
• What is your hope for how God will use Prayers for Each Moment in the life of Christians?
SERAH AND THE FIRST CHRISTMAS: A STORY OF BEING SEEN AND LOVED (coming 9/8/26)
• What was the inspiration for Serah and her story?
• Serah mentions the shepherdesses Rachel and Rebekah. Were women often shepherdesses in Bible times? Could a woman have been tending the flocks out in the fields that night?
• In the book, there is another little girl in the background. What is her story? Why is she important?
• What is the great change that happens in Serah? And why does it matter, not just for her, but for others also?
• What is the “therefore” factor, and how should it affect the way we approach the stories of the Bible?
• The Bible is more than a collection of stories—more even than a collection of true stories. It should change our lives and our relationships.
• Feeling invisible is something of a universal struggle. How does Jesus rescue us from that?
• How do we shepherd our own little flocks so that they know they are seen?
• So much of what women do, particularly perhaps around the holidays, feels invisible and unseen. How is Serah’s story for us too?
Jenny L. Cote
Award-winning author and speaker Jenny L. Cote has a passion for making history fun for kids of all ages, instilling in them a desire to discover their part in HIStory. Likened to C. S. Lewis by readers and book reviewers, she speaks on creative writing to schools, universities, and conferences around the world. Her love for research has taken her to most Revolutionary sites in the U.S., to London (with unprecedented access to write in Handel’s composing room), Oxford (to stay in the home of C. S. Lewis, ‘the Kilns’, and interview Lewis’ secretary, Walter Hooper at the Inklings’ famed The Eagle and Child Pub), Paris, Normandy, Rome, Israel, and Egypt. She partnered with the National Park Service to produce Epic Patriot Camp, a summer writing camp about history, research, and writing. Jenny’s Epic Order of the Seven® historical fantasy fiction books are available globally in print, e-book and audio formats. Her Epic Order of the Seven Podcast and Filmed Writing Workshops are featured on Jack Hibbs’ Real Life Network. Her books are also taught as online Homeschool Classes for Bible, history, and literature curriculum. Jenny has been featured by FOX NEWS on Fox & Friends and local Fox Affiliates, as well as numerous Op-Ed pieces on FoxNews.com. She has also been interviewed by nationally syndicated radio and print media, as well as international publications. Jenny holds two marketing degrees from the University of Georgia and Georgia State University. Jenny lives with her family in Roswell, Georgia. Official website: www.epicorderoftheseven.com.
Interview Topics:
America turns 250 in 2026. So, how do you get kids to care about what happened 250 years ago to truly celebrate America's birthday?
History isn't just what it used to be. It's gotten old. It isn't taught, revered, or given the attention it used to receive in America's educational landscape. So, what will happen to our future if we lose our past?
Jenny will unpack how to make history fun, relevant and come alive for the next generation so they will not only know their history, but they'll know their future.
Debra McNinch
Debra McNinch is a wife, mom, speaker, author of BATTLECRY: Love Goes to War, and the founder of the BATTLECRY Prayer Movement—a growing community of parents who are praying their prodigal children back home to Jesus.
She loves photography, working on her photo farm, and sharing life with Steve, her husband of 33 years, two sweet puppies: Poppy the Berne Doodle and Dodger the Miniature Schnauzer. She is also the faithful feeder of Butters, the neighborhood stray cat.
In Fall 2024, Debra released her first book with Cross River Media, sharing her family’s story and how it led to a powerful prayer movement for prodigals. She writes and speaks to encourage parents to keep praying and keep believing—because prodigals are coming home. Debra speaks with honesty, compassion, and bold biblical truth about spiritual warfare, perseverance in prayer, and trusting God when the outcome feels uncertain. Her message offers hope without hype and faith without denial, reminding parents that God is still writing their child’s story. Debra has appeared on podcasts, spoken at churches and events, and leads prayer initiatives focused on restoration, healing, and unwavering faith. She lives anchored in the promise that no child is beyond the reach of God’s redeeming love.
Parents of prodigal children face heartbreak, guilt, and fear may cloud your days, but you are not alone. There is hope, and it starts here. Battle Cry is a powerful guide for parents who find themselves on a difficult path, watching their children walk away from the faith they once embraced. With compassion and a deep understanding, Debra McNinch shares her personal journey through the anguish of having a spiritual wanderer. Her message is clear: freedom from guilt and the embrace of God’s grace are within reach.
Parents often carry the weight of shame and self-blame, feeling as though they have failed. But in Battle Cry, you will discover the path to peace begins with releasing that burden and trusting in God’s unending love. Through Debra’s story, readers will find comfort in knowing that they can move from a place of despair to one of renewed hope and faith.
In this book, you will discover:
• A Daily Prayer Strategy: Develop a focused and effective prayer plan to surrender your prodigal into God’s hands.
• Freedom from Guilt: Release the heavy burden of shame and embrace the healing power of grace.
• Strength in Community: Find your voice, share your story, and connect with others who understand your journey.
• Renewed Hope: Experience the reassurance that God is still in control and that your prodigal’s return is possible.
Battle Cry is more than a book; it is a rallying call for parents to unite in prayer, to fight with faith, and to believe that their prodigals can and will come home. Debra’s voice resonates with strength, compassion, and an unshakeable trust in God’s promises.
This is a book for every parent standing in the gap, praying for a prodigal child. It is for those who need to be reminded that they are not alone in this battle and that God’s grace is always sufficient. Join the movement. Let faith rise and let hope be restored. Order your copy of Battle Cry today.
Denise Pass
Dr. Denise Pass is an international speaker, author, and Bible scholar passionate about helping readers discover that God’s Word is enough for life’s hardest places. A survivor of traumatic experiences, Denise sought refuge in Scripture, where God transformed not only her faith but her thinking—leading her to pursue a PhD in Bible Exposition from Liberty University. She now serves as a Subject Matter Expert in Theology and mentors doctoral and master’s students, guiding them in biblical interpretation, theology, and spiritual formation.
Denise’s academic work centers on the theology of the mind and the mind of Christ, exploring how Scripture transforms belief, behavior, emotional health, and spiritual resilience. She is the author of Thick Skin, Soft Heart (2027), which invites readers to overcome offense, bitterness, and cultural pressure through Christ-centered thinking. This message builds on themes developed in her award-winning book Make Up Your Mind, accompanying Bible Study, and Shame Off You.
The founder of Seeing Deep Ministries, Denise equips believers to overcome the battles of the mind through Scripture, blogs, original Christian music, and podcasts. She serves on the Executive Team at COMPEL (P31 Ministries) and writes and records podcasts for the First 5 devotional community. Denise speaks nationally and internationally at conferences, churches, and media outlets, blending theological depth with personal stories with humor, insight, and hope-filled encouragement.
She is the mom of five adult children and serves on the worship team at church. She and her husband enjoy traveling with her ministry and going on adventures together.
Interview Topics:
Thick Skin, Soft Heart: Healing Broken Relationships through the Mind of Christ addresses one of the most pressing challenges facing believers today: how offense reshapes relationships and our witness in a reactive culture. At the heart of this message is the idea that offenses are not merely emotional reactions; they shape how we interpret people, pain, and truth.
Written by one who has encountered significant offenses through church hurt, family crises, and caregiving, this book is tender and encouraging, humorous, relatable, and deep. Drawing from biblical insights on mindset throughout Scripture and an in-depth examination of the mind of Christ, this topic explores how God designed our thinking to shape our relating. When thinking becomes distorted by offense, relationships suffer—with God, with others, and within ourselves. When thinking is renewed, relationships can be healed.
This message is grounded in biblical theology, pastoral insight, and practical application, helping audiences understand why offense has such power to divide, harden hearts, and fracture trust—and how Christ-centered thinking offers a radically different way forward. The mind of Christ provides clarity without harshness, strength without defensiveness, and truth without relational damage.
Key discussion points and interview questions may include:
• Why is offense so powerful in shaping relationships today?
• How does Scripture describe the “mind of Christ,” and why is it essential for relational healing?
• What are the root causes of offense, and how do they distort perception?
• How can believers develop emotional resilience without becoming relationally distant?
• Why do strong convictions often lead to broken relationships—and how does the mind of Christ change that?
• How does renewed thinking lead to restored trust, healthier communication, and spiritual maturity?
• What does Jesus model about responding to betrayal, misunderstanding, and conflict?
This topic equips listeners to recognize unhealthy relational patterns, understand the nature of offenses, and respond with wisdom rather than reactivity. It offers a hopeful, biblically grounded path toward healing broken relationships without compromising truth or compassion.
You do not need to harden your heart to survive an offensive culture. You need the mind of Christ to heal relationships and live as God intended.
Katie Hornor
Katie Hornor uses flamingo metaphors to teach timeless life, leadership, and ministry principles. She is a is a prolific Bible teacher, author, and inspirational, motivational keynote speaker. Invite Katie if you want your audience to leave inspired, transformed, and invigorated to live their God-given purpose on purpose.
Hornor is a veteran missionary, business and entrepreneurship coach, and the founder of The National Christian Association of Professional Speakers (NCAPS). She loves inspiring entrepreneurs to blend (not balance) life, ministry and business for personal fulfillment and for the glory of God.
Patty Mason
Patty Mason is a best-selling, award-winning author, and a passionate guide for women seeking a deeper connection with God in their everyday lives. With a heart that radiates compassion and authenticity, Patty brings hope to audiences by sharing her journey of overcoming an abusive childhood, depression, and insecurity.
As the founder of Liberty in Christ Ministries, Patty has spent decades empowering women to embrace God’s love and purpose for their lives. Her books and Bible studies, including Getting to Know God’s Love, Finally Free: Breaking the Bonds of Depression Without Drugs, and Experiencing Joy, offer simple yet profound tools to grow closer to Jesus and discover His transformative power and love.
Patty’s enthusiasm and relatable teaching have made her a sought-after speaker for conferences, retreats, and church events. Her media appearances include Faith Radio, American Family Radio, Moody Radio, and the 700 Club. For more information, visit www.LibertyinChristMinistries.com
Patty loves helping people cultivate a deep, authentic relationship with God that transforms every part of their lives. She speaks to the struggles many believers face—feeling distant from God, wrestling with identity, navigating emotional pain, and longing for peace in their heart and home. Through practical teaching and personal testimony, she equips individuals to experience God’s presence and love in ways that are personal, accessible, and life giving.
Media talking points include:
• How to rebuild closeness with God
• Practical ways to hear God’s voice
• Creating spiritual rhythms that bring peace into the home
• Breaking agreement with lies that shape your identity
• Recognizing subtle ways God speaks throughout your day
• Learning to trust God again after disappointment
• Replacing negative self-talk with God’s truth
• Discovering God’s love in ordinary, unnoticed moments
Heather Wilber
Heather Wilber, award-winning author of her memoir, Never Will I Leave Thee, Never Will I Forsake Thee; A Mother's Testimony of Hope and Miracles, is a beacon of hope. As a Christian speaker and host of the podcast, Answer the Call, Heather's insights on the power of prayer and the faith in Miracles uplift and inspire her audience. Her life, marked by overcoming rape, abortion attempts, and near-death experiences with her daughter is a testament to the power of hope. Heather has witnessed an astounding 13 notable miracles with her daughter, which she honorably writes about in this memoir. Heather's compelling life situations and her unwavering faith in Christ, which helped her overcome them, create a strong sense of connection with her audience. Her experiences, shared with honesty and vulnerability, resonate deeply with those who have faced similar challenges, fostering a sense of understanding and connection.
Possible Interview Questions:
What is the importance of the title and cover photo?
How hard was answering the call from God to fo from a hairdresser to an author?
Why do you believe so strongly in Miracles?
How did your bold faith play a critical part in all the miracles throughout the book and your life?
Why were fearless prayers essential for overcoming satan's schemes of destruction for our children? What is the importance of overcoming spiritual warfare for you and your family?
Explain saying "No" to assertive abortion attempts and "yes" to the saving grace of God.
How critical was forgiveness in overcoming your rape, and how can you encourage other rape victims to do the same.
How did God move when deciding to hand Katelyn ultimately over to Him? A
t what point in Katelyn's life did you realize that God had a divine plan for her?
Will there be a sequel to this award-winning memoir?
Denise Renken
Denise Renken’s story stops audiences in their tracks: she was married three times—to the same man. In Triage: Healing Mental and Spiritual Roots, Denise reveals how unhealed wounds quietly shape our decisions, relationships, and faith, and how real change begins not by trying harder but by healing deeper. Drawing from her own journey and decades of mentoring women, Denise helps listeners understand why prayer alone doesn’t always break cycles—and how inviting God into the roots of pain brings lasting restoration. Her message is hopeful, disarming, and deeply biblical: no story is too complicated for redemption. With warmth, humility, and hard-won wisdom, Denise equips women to move beyond shame, gain discernment, and experience the freedom that comes when God heals what lies beneath the surface—even in a story rewritten three times.
Interview Questions:
Your story includes being married three times to the same man—when did you realize the real issue wasn’t the marriage, but something deeper?
What does the word triage mean in the context of this book, and why was it the right framework for healing?
Many women love God deeply but still feel stuck. Why do you think healing doesn’t always happen just through prayer alone?
How did unhealed wounds from your past quietly shape your decisions—especially in relationships?
What was the turning point when you realized you needed to address root wounds rather than surface behaviors?
You integrate faith with psychological insight in this book. Why is that combination so important for lasting healing?
How does healing at the root impact discernment and future decision-making?
Is Triage meant for women with extreme trauma only—or for women who simply sense something is “off” beneath the surface?
Jamie Hulker
Jamie Hulker is the author of Esteemed: God and His View of Women, a biblically grounded study that explores the character of God as He entrusts women with critical roles at pivotal junctures throughout Scripture—also translated into Croatian. She is an international speaker and teacher, and director of the ministry Here for You. Holding an MA from Moody Theological Seminary and a lifetime in ministry across six continents, Jamie brings a strong foundation in Scripture and theology, along with extensive local and global ministry experience.
Passionate about Scripture, unity in the Church, and practical ministry, Jamie’s heart is to equip others to engage in biblically grounded conversations that glorify God, understand their identity in Christ, and live out their faith by loving God and others. She also leads study tours to Israel, helping participants experience the Land of Scripture firsthand.
Active in her local church, Jamie enjoys hiking, traveling, paddleboarding, and coffee with friends. She treasures time with her family and has been married to Bryan for 32 years. They have two sons, daughters-in-law, and grandchildren.
The following questions invite a Scripture-centered conversation that focuses on God’s character and redemptive mission, exploring what the Bible reveals (and "Esteemed" explores) about His design, His purposes, and His esteem for women.
1. As you consider the sweep of Scripture—from creation through the early Church—what patterns do you notice in the ways God entrusts women with His purposes? What does this reveal about how God works in the world?
2. What surprised you most in your study of women in the Bible, and why do you think that particular insight stood out to you?
3. Why do you think the accounts of women in Scripture are so often treated as peripheral or exceptional, rather than integral to God’s redemptive story? What might we miss when we read them that way?
4. This study emphasizes that God values faithfulness over status. Where do you see this clearly reflected in the lives of women in Scripture—and how does that challenge common assumptions about significance or leadership?
5. How does shifting the conversation away from power and preference toward identity, calling, and obedience rooted in Scripture help foster unity within the Church? Where do you see this being especially needed today?
6. What does Scripture reveal about mutual dependence and shared mission between men and women in God’s redemptive plan? How might this reshape the way we live and serve together in our faith communities?
7. Taking all of this together, what do you think the Bible communicates about God’s deep love and high regard—His esteem—for women? What feels like the central takeaway of this study?
Dani Pettrey
With over a million copies sold worldwide, Dani Pettrey’s novels have captivated readers who crave adrenaline-laced suspense fused with faith, redemption, and heart. A three-time Christy Award finalist, Dani’s books have also earned Daphne du Maurier, National Readers’ Choice, and HOLT Medallion awards, affirming her place as a beloved voice in inspirational romantic suspense.
Known for her authentic characters and plot twists that keep readers on the edge of their seats, Dani writes with a passion for stories that not only thrill but point toward God’s unrelenting grace and love. When she’s not dreaming up danger and devotion, Dani enjoys beach days, espresso-fueled chats, and time with her family. A natural encourager, she also mentors aspiring writers and speaks at events, believing in the power of story to inspire hope and bring people together.
Possible Interview Questions:
1.What inspired you to highlight veterans and their mental health journeys in your books?
2.Have you had any struggles with mental health yourself, and if so, how has that influenced your writing?
3.How do faith, hope, and redemption shape the storylines in your novels?
4.Can you tell us about your personal writing journey?
5.Where did the inspiration come from to write your series, Jeopardy Falls?
6.What was your favorite part of writing your newest release, Whiteout?
Victoria Chapin
Victoria Chapin is an author and speaker who inspires others to find jewels in adversity and live fully in Christ. Despite the tragic loss of her daughter and enduring a rare cancer diagnosis, she is passionate about joy. Victoria embraces the truth found in John 10:10; Jesus came that we may have life in abundance. Her writings encourage intimacy with God, equipping her readers to walk boldly in their destiny. She speaks nationally and has been featured on Christian programming and multiple podcasts.
Victoria serves as Executive Director for The Well Ministry and Conference, where she is dedicated to discipling and empowering Christian creatives. She is also a co-founder of Do Life 2 The Full Ministries and works as a chaplain alongside her husband, with a focus on prayer, discipleship, and community outreach. As a mom to many and Grammy to even more, Victoria loves books and all things coffee, especially when shared with friends.
If you’d like your audience to hear Victoria’s story, filled with divine moments and God’s faithfulness, she’d be thrilled to sneak in an interview at NRB and beyond.
Have you heard about The Well Conference? Join us April 30 - May 2nd at our one-of-a-kind Holy Spirit-filled event. For more information, go to seeyouatthewell.net. Use coupon code NRB50 for $50 off our already discounted pricing. We hope to see YOU at The Well!
Speaking and Interview Topics:
Come to The Well
Empowering Creative Christians
Embrace Adversity
Legacy of Joy
Prayer Box Ministry
Undaunted Prayer Warrior
Divine Encounters Through Grief
Crazy Faith in the Waiting
Healed From Cancer Miracle
A Life of Gratitude
Finding Purpose in Suffering
Living with Eternal Perspective
Dr. Gladys Childs
Gladys knows the ache of deep hurt, wrestling with hard questions, and seasons where faith feels like a fight rather than comfort. Raised in a traumatic home with an alcoholic mother, she met Jesus at 14; everything changed, but healing was long and messy, full of nights crying out in the dark and fighting for faith when nothing made sense.
That’s why she’s passionate about walking alongside people in their valleys, stepping into the mess where faith is fragile, and pain runs deep; helping them find unshakable faith and true freedom.
Known as the “Truth Doctor,” Gladys cuts through life’s toughest questions with clarity, compassion, and hope. She doesn’t sugarcoat truth or leave you stuck; with honesty and a heart for transformation, she points you to the One who heals and redeems.
A former religion professor and university chaplain, Gladys has spent over 25 years in church leadership, teaching, mentoring, and discipling women, students, and children. She currently directs the Women’s Group at LifePoint Fellowship and reaches women worldwide through writing, speaking, and her media ministry, including the TV show Bare Faith.
An ordained minister with a Ph.D. in Foundations of Education, Master of Divinity, Master’s in Religious Education, and B.A. in Counseling and Psychology, Gladys connects most through her authenticity. She knows life is messy—but God’s grace is bigger. Gladys’ third book, Chasing Emptiness, Finding Fullness, was released February 3, 2026, and invites readers to stop chasing emptiness and discover instead the fullness found in Christ.
Connect with Gladys at gladyschilds.com. Email her at [email protected].
Gladys Childs' ability to connect with audiences concerning personal discipleship and core educational issues has made her a much-requested speaker. She has traveled the country as a keynote and featured speaker, delivering presentations and workshops at conferences and leading day-long or multi-day interactive seminars for women’s retreats, church groups, and staff members. Gladys' focus is on helping individuals be F.R.E.E. to Thrive© (fostering faith, releasing abundance, enriching relationships, empowering strength).
Sample Speaking Topics:
- Unshakable: Defend Your Faith with Confidence. A bold, no-nonsense apologetics session that tackles today’s most challenging questions head-on. Walk away with clear, biblical answers and the confidence to stand firm in your faith—ready to engage a skeptical world with courage and clarity.
-Rising Unbroken: Healing from Trauma Through God’s Grace. A powerful session combining biblical truth and practical psychological tools to help participants process trauma, build resilience, and rise stronger from life’s deepest wounds.
-Rooted in Christ: Embracing Your Identity and Empowerment. Rooted in Christ, a powerful message that helps participants break free from self-doubt and cultural pressures, embrace their God-given identity, and live boldly with purpose and confidence.
-Customized talks tailored to your event’s needs are available. Contact Gladys to explore topics that inspire faith and transformation.
Karen Whiting
Karen Whiting (www.karenwhiting.com) is an international speaker, former television host, and national award-winning author of thirty-four books for women, children, families, and the military. In 2024 Karen was one of four journalists chosen by Israel's Ministry of Tourism for a trip to Israel as she worked on an upcoming book on biblical archeology for tweens. She’s spoken in such faraway places as Russia, China, and Malaysia.
As a Coast Guard wife, she moved often, and experienced the trauma of natural disasters in various homes that include category four hurricanes, lightning strikes, an earthquake, derecho, and spontaneous combustible fires. She is a widow, mother of five, including two rocket scientists (yes, for real) and a grandmother. She has a heart to help families thrive and build strong, wholesome bonds.
She's an experienced researcher and loves to share stories of remarkable women in American History. As a military wife, daughter, mother, sister, niece, and cousin of those who served, Karen understands the military lifestyle. She realizes how much women of the American Revolution created a legacy and helped forge support, housing, and the steadfastness for families of service people to continue supporting those who serve.
Topics to discuss:
American Revolution women
Spies
Successful fund raisers
Role of women and tea (crushed British sales of tea with boycotts)
Historians who also wrote history of the war
Caregivers with innovative methods for treating wounded
Women ran farms, busineses, even the press, opening doors for women entreprenueurs
Cheryl Schuermann
Cheryl Schuermann enjoyed many years as a literacy consultant and curriculum trainer in schools across the United States. A multi award-winning author, her debut devotional book, Farmhouse Devotions, released May 2025 as a 2nd edition with Kaleidoscope Publishing. Farmhouse Devotions: God’s Glory in the Ordinary is the winner of the 2024 Golden Scroll Devotional Book of the Year, 2025 Christian Indie Award, 2025 Selah Award for Devotionals and the 2025 Selah Award for Audio Books.
Cheryl is an online president in Word Weavers International and a member of Advanced Writers and Speakers Association and CAN/CIPA. For over two decades, Cheryl and her husband Stan have mentored and taught groups of parents in their local church. They now enjoy co-authoring books for parents, grandparents, and teens. Two books will release in 2026: Raising Kids for Tomorrow’s World and Get Your Boots On: Calling Boys Up to Biblical Manhood, both from Kaleidoscope Publishing.
In addition to writing, Cheryl facilitates a caregiver support group in her community and spends as much time as possible with her family: four sons, four daughters-in-love, and thirteen grandchildren, ages 10-22. The family farmhouse is her favorite place to write, play with family, and host ministry groups.
A career educator, public speaker, and award-winning author, Cheryl Schuermann’s signature topics include:
• Five Steps to Preparing Our Children for a Life of Faith
• Catch the Vision: God’s Plan for Multi-generational Faithfulness
• Discovering God’s Divine Presence in the Ordinary and Everyday
She is available to speak individually or with her husband, Stan Schuermann. Stan is an experienced Bible teacher, illustrator, and an award-winning author. He is Cheryl’s co-author for several upcoming books.
Stan and Cheryl’s signature topics include:
•Raising Kids for Tomorrow’s World
• Boys to Men: God’s Call to Biblical Manhood
• Grandparents in the Gap: Seven Strategies for Intentional Grandparenting
Cheryl and Stan have taught and mentored groups of parents for over two decades. Together, they wrote Raising Kids for Tomorrow’s World (Kaleidoscope Publishing, 2nd edition February 2026). Their illustrated trail guide for 10–14-year-old boys, Get Your Boots On: Calling Boys Up to Biblical Manhood, will launch Summer 2026. In addition, they have a work-in-progress for grandparents, Grandparents in the Gap.
Kathy Dye
Kathy Dye is an inspirational Christian speaker and author who equips mothers and women with biblical resources and transformative teaching. A retired elementary teacher with 29 years of experience, Kathy has taught Bible studies for women and children for over 40 years and speaks at churches, conferences, and retreats nationwide.
Kathy is the author of the award-winning children's book A Song in Her Heart and the Kit Kat Camp series—heartwarming stories inspired by her grandchildren that teach life lessons about compassion, kindness, and character through a grandmother's love. She also created the SONG journal series for women. Her passion is helping overwhelmed women reconnect with God and discover that He is the song of their hearts—so they can build a legacy of faith in their families and communities.
The Song of Our Heart grew from Kathy's deep love for Psalm 71 and her belief that we all need to declare God's power to the next generation. Through this study, she invites women to explore how God serves as our song through every season of life—our refuge, our hope, and our praise.
Kathy lives in Evansville, Indiana with her husband of over 50 years. She is a wife, mother, and grandmother who loves coffee, good conversations, and walking in nature.
Core Expertise:
Faith Across Generations - Kathy helps mothers move beyond routine faith to intentionally nurture genuine love for God in their children. Drawing from Psalm 71:18, she addresses why passing faith to the next generation isn't optional—it's our sacred calling.
Finding God in Hard Seasons - Through her Bible study The Song of Our Heart, Kathy explores how to make God your refuge, hope, and praise when life doesn't sound like you expected. She speaks honestly about disappointment, grief, and finding anchor in God's faithfulness.
Children's Books with Purpose - As author of the Kit Kat Camp series and A Song in Her Heart, Kathy discusses how stories plant biblical seeds in young hearts—teaching compassion, character, and truth in ways children actually remember.
Ministry Beyond Midlife - After attending a conference where mostly younger women spoke, Kathy questioned why older women bow out when God still gives strength. She challenges the church to embrace the biblical mandate for seasoned believers to continue declaring God's power.
Sample Interview Questions:
What does "building a legacy of faith" actually look like in everyday life?
How can overwhelmed mothers reconnect with God when they barely have time to breathe?
Why do children's stories matter for spiritual formation?
What's the SONG method for Bible study, and how does it help women engage Scripture?
How did walking through your mother's memory loss shape your understanding of God's faithfulness? What would you say to women who feel they've "aged out" of ministry?
Kathy's warmth, authenticity, and biblical grounding make her an engaging guest who offers hope and practical tools—not platitudes.
Lisa M. Pritchard
Keenly aware that God gifted her with the love of writing, she listens to His voice to guide her work. Two years ago, God opened the door to the writing world for Lisa, and she hasn’t looked back.
Her first children’s picture book, Dirt Dog Invites Prissy Poodle to the Prom, is designed to help children value the heart over appearance and will be released on March 17, 2026. It’s endorsed by Carol Kent. www.DirtDogandFriends.com.
She is co-authoring a six-book series for 7-10-year-olds. Pets to the Rescue, A Cousin Crew Series. The first book, released February 03, is endorsed by Dr. Gary Chapman. This series emphasizes family and moral values, patriotism, and prayer, and is designed to improve literacy through engaging stories using grade-appropriate vocabulary. A glossary and lessons are included in each book. www.PetstotheRescueCC.com
Lisa wrote After God’s Own Heart, a Psalms Bible study, available weekly on her website to her subscribers. Learn more at www.praying-prodigals.com
Lisa holds a master’s degree in education (NCSU). She co-leads book studies for an international prayer group, and is a member of Word Weavers, AWSA, ACFW, and is Speak Up speaker-certified.
Lisa was voted Teacher of the Year, served on literacy teams, and led workshops at the county and state levels. She is burdened by plummeting literacy rates and their effects on future generations.
In the few hours Lisa isn’t writing, she enjoys boating on the ICW, baking, cooking, and spending sunrises with Jesus.
Interview Topics:
I am deeply concerned about declining literacy rates and the growing indoctrination surrounding family values, patriotism, prayer, and respect for authority. As a former high school teacher, I witnessed firsthand how deficiencies in basic skills and positive character traits affected students by the time they reached high school. Today, we are seeing the long-term consequences of those shortcomings. If we can reach children at a younger age, we may still have an opportunity to reverse some of the damage.
As both a county and state literacy team member, I led workshops on effective literacy strategies and implemented them in my own classroom. I now hope to use my writing as a catalyst for meaningful change.
Tarsha Campbell
As a “Purveyor of Empowerment,” Tarsha Campbell serves as an inspirational speaker, entrepreneur, certified empowerment coach, business consultant, mentor and licensed minister. She is the author of ten popular books, with her more recent book releases being: Divinely Covered: Powerful Prayers of Protection For You, Your Family and Your Life, My Next Step Vision Board Dream Journal & Planner® and Woman in the Mirror: Ungodly Soul Ties - Break Free to Break Through. Tarsha is an award-winning business leader and holds multiple trademarks and copyrights for content she has created.
Tarsha serves emerging leaders through her businesses, Tarsha Campbell Empowers, WOMB Mentoring Incubator & Delivery Room®, LIFT Coach Training Academy & Launch Pad™ and through the non-profit organization she founded, Revealed International Women’s Empowerment Network, Inc. She is also the founder, publisher, and principal designer of DOMINIONHOUSE Publishing & Design, LLC, a publishing and graphic design firm dedicated to publishing with divine ingenuity and creative excellence with the ultimate goal of spreading the Good News of God’s love and His Kingdom.
Coach Tarsha, as she is affectionately called, is passionate about helping others find and fulfill their life purpose and launch their dreams. Her signature presentations have revolutionized and empowered lives globally.
To learn more about her empowerment work for leaders and authors, visit: TarshaCampbellEmpowers.com and MyDominionhouse.com.
Booking for 2026
Empowering your audience and group for breakthrough and to prosper
Media Talking Points & Interview Questions:
• What prompted you to write and publish this book?
• What’s your vision and mission for this book?
• What types of prayers of protection are featured in the book?
• What are God’s thoughts about protecting His people?
• How does God manifest Himself as Protector in His Word?
• What are the “Pillars of Divine Protection” found in Scripture?
• How do we build “Zones of Protection” for our lives?
• When it comes to divine protection, what is the role of the intercessor and targeted intercession in this day and time?
Sharon Braner
Sharon Braner, wife, mother, grandmother and volunteer at the Garden Tomb in Jerusalem Israel. As a former BSF Teaching Leader she writes Bible Studies and has taught women’s classes since 1984. She lives in Frisco TX with her husband Dennis of 54 years.
It’s Time To Flee is a memoir of the authors experience of living in Jerusalem and volunteering at the Garden Tomb during the fall of 2023. The circumstantial peace she enjoyed was replaced by the supernatural peace of God when the war broke out Oct 7th. She learned and shares the reality of living safe and unafraid in a war zone.
Liz A. Pitman
Liz A. Pitman is an award-winning author of the Pete the Puzzle Piece Adventure series, speaker, and founder of Puzzle Piece Productions and Publications. Her first book, "Where Is the Missing Puzzle Piece?" won the Christian Market Children's Book of the Year and a Congressional Award from the US House of Representatives for impactful children's literature.
Her first curriculum book, "Pete's Purpose-Packed Conversations" was a Golden Scroll Recipient for Christian Education Book of the Year. As a former educator of ten years, Liz understands the importance of planting seeds of truth in the leaders of today that they are truly God's masterPIECE (Ephesians 2:10).
The heartbeat behind Liz's books, ministry, and business is to set the foundation of identity in Christ, purpose, and worth in the hearts of children and families. To find out more information about Liz or to contact her for your next school event, speaking event, or conference, visit petethepuzzlepiece.com.
"For all the puzzle pieces in this world searching for their purpose, this book is written for you." As a former educator of ten years and a mom, Liz has a calling to set the foundation of purpose and worth in the hearts of all ages and remind each of us how important we are in God's big picture.
About the Pete the Puzzle Piece Series
Through impactful storytelling and vibrant illustrations, Liz A. Pitman's books carry these four heart-changing truths:
Hear how loved you are!
Find out who God made you to be!
See your importance in God's story!
Step into your special plan!
"Where Is the Missing Puzzle Piece?" introduces readers to Pete, a curious little puzzle piece who leaves his town of Jigsaw on a journey of self-discovery.
Along the way, he meets Will, a friendly boy who helps Pete understand the value of being uniquely himself. Together, they return to Jigsaw where Pete steps into his God-given destiny—and so can every reader.
This uplifting adventure not only speaks to children but resonates with adults, reinforcing eternal truths about identity in Christ , purpose, and worth.
A Message for Every Heart At the core of Liz A. Pitman's work is the mission of: Setting the foundation of identity in Christ, purpose, and worth in the hearts of children and families. Just like Pete the Puzzle Piece: You Are Loved. You Are Valuable. You Are God's MasterPIECE.
Contact & Additional Information For interviews, speaking engagements, or media requests, please contact: Liz A. Pitman 850-206-9618 [email protected]
Ronda Wells
Doctor by day, writer by night—Dr. Ronda Wells is an award-winning author, a lifelong Hoosier, and a preacher’s kid. A wife, mom, and grandma who puts faith and family first, she writes “Heartfelt Stories from the Heartland” and is a Guideposts contributor. The Christmas Cherub, her award-winning debut novella, is a WW2 inspirational romance that focuses on love, loyalty, patience, and hope. Her devotionals appear on Arise Daily and Crossmap’s “Daybreak Devotions and Nighttime Prayers.”
Her next novel, a contemporary western romance Harvest of Hope, releases this spring. Connect with her @rondawellsbooks on X, Instagram, Facebook, Threads, Pinterest, LinkedIn, or YouTube @novelmalpractice. Her Substack column, “Surviving Dying: A Physician’s Take on End-of-Life Care” shares her experiences from care-managing four elderly family members. When she finds the time, her interests include genealogy, history, scrapbooking, sewing, and traveling cross-country with her husband in their small motorhome.
If her name looks familiar, many inspirational authors credit her for helping with medical scenes in their books. She even ended up being a minor character in a “Love Inspired” novel!
Interview Topics:
PTSD/WW 2 Battle Fatigue
My Flight in a B-17 bomber
Indianapolis Christmas traditions including the Ayres' cherub
Researching for Historical Books
"Novel Malpractice" - How I help other writers with their medical scenes and characters. (www.novelmalpractice.com)
Getting started writing Screenplays
How to Research Medical Topics for Writers
Beginning to Write Devotionals
Family Care Managing
Kathy Harris
Kathy Harris is an author by way of a divine detour into the Nashville entertainment business. She is also a founder and co-owner of Arise Creative Entertainment literary and music management agency, www.arisecreativenashville.com
Kathy Harris is the author of women's fiction and romantic suspense novels, including The Deadly Secrets series and The Road to Mercy. After working for more than four decades in the Nashville entertainment industry, she co-founded Arise Creative Entertainment, a full-service music and literary marketing and management agency.
Jennifer E. Tirrell
Jennifer's writing often includes the natural beauty around her. She uses creation and the Word of God to point both adults and children to the Creator. A kinship adopted orphan, she offers a unique authenticity. Her co-authored children's chapter book series, Pets to the Rescue, seeks to strengthen young minds amid today's shifting cultural landscape. Jane's Secret, her debut novel, points to the power of prayer, and generational blessings. Her books have been endorsed by Leo Hindery, Jr., Dr. Gary Chapman, and others. She is a contributing writer to Focus on the Family, Guideposts, Arise Daily Devotions and more. Jennifer and her husband Bobby live life to the fullest in the Coastal Carolinas. Learn more at www.writingwithjet.com.
Topics:
Virtues to Empower
The Blessing
Teaching Values in the Classroom
Childhood Trauma: Pathways to Healing
Benefits of Boredom
Maureen Miller
Maureen Miller is a multi-genre, award-winning author, speaker, and storyteller with contributions in more than twenty collaboratives. She writes for Guideposts’ annual daily devotional All God’s Creatures, her local newspaper, and several online devotion sites, including the award-winning Arise Daily and Inspire A Fire. Married for thirty-six years to her childhood sweetheart Bill, she enjoys life with their three born-in-their-hearts children and a trio of grand-girls, not to mention a variety of furry beasts. They live on Selah Farm, a hobby homestead nestled in the mountains of western North Carolina. She’s the chaplain of her local Word Weaver critique group and blogs at “Windows and Wallflowers” (Maureenmillerauthor.com)—telling of God’s extraordinary character discovered in the ordinary things of life. Her debut novel, Gideon’s Book, is now available, and she hopes this timeslip novel will encourage folks to pull up a chair and have heartfelt, healthy conversations, even about difficult topics. Relationships are important to Maureen, and it’s no surprise that her most favorite thing in life is to encourage others in their journey with Jesus. If coffee and dogs are involved… even better!
Possible Interview questions—
• Obviously, you have a heart for adoption and the lives of unborn children. Tell us a little about yourself and where this passion comes from.
·This is not your only writing. Tell us a little about where we can find more of your writings.
· You have a heart for racial reconciliation and open dialogue to encourage healing among people. Why this passion, and what is meant by Jonah Forney’s words in your book, “All it takes is pullin’ up a chair”?
· I love the logline of your blog: God’s extraordinary character discovered in the ordinary moments. How did that name come about and what do you talk about on your blog?
· You say you are “an introvert who loves and values people and relationships.” How do you think that shapes your writing?
· What is one of the greatest gifts God has given you through this journey of writing?
· What is something you would love for your reader to walk away with after reading one of your books?
· Your story walks the reader through some heavy things. How can we walk through those life-altering moments that leave us with heartache and enduring sorrow?
Janet K Johnson
Janet K Johnson is an award-winning author, speaker, teacher, pastor, counselor, and spiritual formation coach. She has been married to Richard for fifty-five years, has four grown children, six grandchildren, and through fostering, has another granddaughter and four great grandchildren. She lives near Asheville, NC and enjoys baking and especially experimenting with new recipes.
The murder of her brother, death of her son, suicide of her brother-in-law, physical and emotional challenges of her daughter, along with her own traumatic brain injury, left Janet struggling to find joy amid so much pain through loss. Janet began a quest to find true, lasting joy. She now shares not only her journey but helps others find ways to live a life of joy no matter what life brings. She is an encourager who’s written and spoken words help audiences learn how to grieve well as they discover tools to live out their losses in life-giving ways. She is a joy sprinkling lover of Jesus.
While experiencing grief through the loss of her son, brother, brother-in-law, parents, and very close friends, Janet learned to lean on God. She dove into scripture, the promises of God, the love of Christ, and found the cloud of heaviness lifting. Since then she has written, Grief the Unwanted Journey (an uplifting devotional), Surviving the Holidays While Grieving (filled with experiential, spiritual, and growth through remembering and celebrating those who have been lost), and two children's books, Fly High Understanding Grief with God's Help and Fly High (General Market), in addition to being a part of many compilations and anthologies. Her spirit of joy permeates her life including her presentations to those who are struggling with their own losses.
She is available to speak to groups of any size, and to do radio, TV, and podcast interviews. Questions about life's struggles, God's faithfulness and promises, and grasping the meaning of eternity for our lives today are always great for discussion and helping others know there is always hope.
Amanda L. Scarborough
Debut author Amanda Scarborough was adopted at three days of age and grew up an only child on a farm in southwest Louisiana. At age twenty-two, she married her husband, Jeff, and became an instant mom to his two daughters, and later, the couple had two sons together. They own Scarborough’s Salon & Day Spa, Freedom Pharmacy, and Jeff is a contractor and developer. Amanda loves decorating for fall and Christmas and, as a tradition, always does so on October 31. Aside from being obsessed with French bulldogs, she loves to read, play softball, and spend as much time as she can outdoors.
“Postpartum depression (PPD) is the most common complication for women who have just had a baby. It affects up to 1 in 7 women (about 15 percent),” according to the March of Dimes. Yet many women affected by postpartum depression do not acknowledge or share their experiences.
Debut author Amanda Scarborough knows what it’s like to feel hopeless during the nearly two years she suffered with perinatal and postpartum depression. In a new release, A Beautiful War: Finding Hope in the Darkest Moments (Redemption Press), Scarborough gives a personal glimpse into what precipitated her descent into the darkness of depression that brought her to the moment when she wanted to harm her newborn son.
Scarborough writes, “For me, the darkness that postpartum depression held was all-consuming and terrifying. I would have done anything to escape it without thought or reason.” But she said that in a moment of what she recognizes as God’s mercy, “the dark veil that shielded reality was violently torn away, and the weight of what I almost did caused me to shatter.”
This transparently told, brave personal story will resonate with anyone who suffers from depression, whether postpartum or not, or loves someone who does. A Beautiful War highlights the hope that comes from Jesus, the faith that casts out fear, and love that always wins.
Suggested Interview Questions
1. Why do you think it is hard for women to speak out about their experiences of postpartum depression? 2. There are physical reasons that cause perinatal and postpartum depression during pregnancy, but you also say that spiritual issues also enter in. Can you elaborate?
3. Do you feel that at your lowest moment, when you wanted to harm your newborn son and yourself, it was God’s intervention that stopped you from going further?
4. You didn’t experience an instant return to normalcy. What are some of the positive things you did after releasing your fears and anxiety to the Lord that helped you?
5. What advice would you give to other women who may currently be experiencing depression?
Lori Wildenberg
Lori Wildenberg, licensed parent and family educator, author, and national speaker, is passionate about helping families build connections that last a lifetime and beyond. Lori is the author of seven books including the newly released Grandparents Make Grand Partners: How to Have an Eternal Impact on Your Grandchild’s Life and the award-winning Messy Hope: Help Your Child Overcome Anxiety Depression, or Suicidal Ideation. Lori is married to her college sweetheart, Tom. They have four adult children, 3 in-laws, and 5 grands. A perfect day in Lori’s world is a hike with Tom, any combination of family members, and Toby the family goldendoodle. The Wildenberg home is nestled in the foothills of the Rocky Mountains. loriwildenberg.com
Grandparents Make Grand Partners
What if the greatest legacy you could leave isn’t just your love, it’s your faith? Grandparents are second only to parents in shaping their grandchildren’s faith and moral development. Grandparenting is a sacred role, a partnership with your adult children and with God to nurture the next generation.
Yet many still wonder: What’s my role? How do I support my adult children without overstepping? How do I navigate cultural pressures, spiritual differences, or strained relationships?
Grandparents Make Grand Partners: How to Have an Eternal Impact on Your Grandchild’s Life is your practical, encouraging guide to becoming an intentional, spiritually influential grandparent. You’ll learn how to come alongside, not compete with your adult children, strengthen family bonds, and model faith in everyday moments. You’ll discover how to: Restore or deepen connection with your adult children Support your grandchild's emotional and spiritual growth Identify your unique grandparenting “style” Handle tough topics like gender identity and cultural pressures Pass on faith through stories, blessings, and prayer Embrace your divine role in a broken world
With Scripture, real-life stories, and honest wisdom, Grandparents Make Grand Partners will help you move from wondering, “What do I do?” to proclaiming, “I was made for this.” Whether near or far, close or disconnected, it’s never too late to step into your calling with purpose and grace. You’re not just a grandparent, you’re a partner in the greatest spiritual legacy of all.
Lynne Rienstra
Lynne Rienstra is a recovering Pharisee and spiritual orphan. Through her mentoring, speaking (she's taught thousands of women for over two decades), and writing, she leads women out of hiding and into a place of discovering their identity as God’s Brave Beloved.
Her first book, Sacred Refuge: Finding Unexpected Shelter in Your Crisis, was a #1 Amazon bestseller and was named “Book of the Year” by the Advanced Writers and Speakers Association.
Lynne has been an English teacher, corporate insurance broker, women’s ministry leader, homeschooling mom, and development professional. She served as a regional director for Samaritan’s Purse and traveled across the globe with that ministry. She holds a BA in English from Smith College and a Certificate in Spiritual Formation from the Transforming Center. Lynne has contributed to numerous books, magazines, and online devotionals. Serving alongside her husband, a senior pastor, gives Lynne much joy, as do their adult children and grandchildren.
You can book Lynne for your event, or as a podcast, radio, or TV guest, at BraveBeloved. Access her teaching on YouTube. Lynne can also be found on Facebook, Pinterest, Instagram, and X.
My passion is helping women not only know the truth, but experience heart change that catalyzes long-term transformation. My goal is to help them close the gap between what they say they believe and how they actually live.
Abandoned by my father at four and betrayed by my stepfather at 12, the basic childhood mantra I internalized was: "You're not enough."
I'm not alone. Through decades of ministry, I've met thousands of women who operate under the same oppressive lie. As a result, we hide from God, hold back parts of our hearts, and hedge our bets with the Lover of Our Soul.
Even now, God may be asking you, "What if the deepest desire of your heart turned out to be what I most long to give you?" The world awaits.
Bruised, battered, and broken, many are waiting for you to come out of hiding and become in practice who you already are in union with Jesus Christ:
• A much-loved child.
• A breath-taking bride.
• A cleansed and empowered vessel.
• An indispensable member of God's family (and part of Christ's Body).
• A brave warrior who is courageously pushing back the darkness with the light of God's love.
Angela Mackey
Angela Mackey loves coming alongside people and helping them rethink their thinking through Scripture so they can live transformed lives. Her Bible teaching carries weight and depth, shaped by her passion for God, her master’s degree in biblical and theological studies, and her longing to worship Him with her whole life.
Angela hosts the Life as Worship podcast, where each episode begins with a passage of Scripture and a simple question: “What does this mean, and how do we live it?” She invites guests to share how God has led them to walk that truth out in real life—through both ordinary days and deeply challenging seasons.
Her journey through secondary infertility and pregnancy loss shapes the gentle, compassionate way she talks about suffering, helping listeners notice God’s love, comfort, and nearness when life hurts. Angela’s expertise includes finding joy in all circumstances, lamenting with hope, renewing our minds through God’s Word, living a life of worship, and loving well even when we disagree.
She is the author of Difficult to Conceive: A Godly Perspective for the Road Ahead and a contributing writer in Still Speaking and God With Us: Immanuel. A registered nurse and black belt in Kuk Sool Won martial arts, Angela isn’t afraid of hard or complex conversations and brings a calm, grounded, hope-filled presence to every interaction. She lives with her family in the Arkansas River Valley, cheering on her mostly-adult kids and delighting in the surprising ways God shows up in daily life.
Interview Questions:
Infertility treatments are controversial. How did you find peace as a Christian to use IVF to expand your family?
Infertility often causes big questions about God and how He works. What were the biggest questions you faced and how did God help you work through them?
How did the idea of wrestling with God help you as you worked through these challenging questions?
In our culture there are many conversations both within the church and without that are fraught with high emotions and tension. What are some tools that have helped you have calmer hope-filled conversations even when you disagree?
Why do you think it is important to have these difficult conversations?
You mention that lamenting is a bridge to find hope in seasons of difficulty. How does lamenting help you experience hope?
What are some tools or ways people can lament that will help them handle the difficult and dark things in life?
Scripture tells us that the joy of the Lord is our strength, but often life is dark and difficult. What have you learned to help you experience joy in these times?
Sometimes you talk about a battle for joy and other times you mention cultivating joy. Those two verbs seem contradictory. How can they both be true and what are some practical ways we can both battle for joy and cultivate it?
The title of your podcast is Life as Worship. What does that mean and what do you practically do so that your life can be lived as worship?
The name of your ministry is Rethinking My Thinking.
Why did you choose that name and what are some practical ways we can rethink our thinking to live transformed?
Why do you put so much emphasis on thought life? How does what you think affect your life?
Cassandra Armstrong
Cassandra Armstrong is a wife, mother, writer, U.S. Navy veteran, cybersecurity business-owner, and doctoral student with degrees in English and business, with majors in strategic leadership and technology management. Her current research focuses on servant leadership within doctoral studies of strategic leadership. She is the mother of four children and lives on her homestead in the mountains of Maine with her family, dogs, highland cow, pigs, and chickens.
Growth in the Grief is a faith-centered book for believers striving to continue moving forward while carrying loss. Written for those who are grieving, yet still showing up as spouses, parents, leaders, and professionals, the book offers a faith-filled invitation to slow down, acknowledge pain, and allow God to do deep, transformative work in the midst of suffering.
Rather than focusing on quick healing or spiritual platitudes, Growth in the Grief addresses the tension that so many quietly hold in navigating faith alongside exhaustion, responsibility alongside sorrow, and leadership alongside feelings of inadequacy. Through biblical truth, reflection, and lived experience, the book encourages readers to remain rooted in Christ while navigating grief, expectations, marriage, parenting, and work. The message of Growth in the Grief lives under the broader Rooted brand, a ministry platform devoted to helping individuals and couples build lives firmly grounded in Christ. Rooted exists to support believers through seasons of growth, transition, and hardship, emphasizing spiritual maturity, authentic faith, and resilience rooted in biblical truth.
These themes continue through the Rooted Podcast, where honest, Christ-centered conversations between husband and wife explore marriage, parenting, leadership, and faith in everyday life. Co-hosted by the author and her husband, Kayle Rivers, the podcast creates space for transparent dialogue about walking through grief while remaining spiritually aligned in marriage and faithful in their calling at home, as parents, on their homestead, and as leaders.
Growth in the Grief and the Rooted brand are led by Cassandra Armstrong, an award-winning author, businesswoman, and doctoral scholar in strategic leadership. Her work bridges faith and leadership, addressing how believers steward their calling while navigating loss, responsibility, spiritual gifts, and growth. Together, the book, brand, and podcast offer a steady, biblical voice for those learning to trust God in the hardest seasons, while reminding readers and listeners that growth is still possible when our lives are deeply rooted in Christ.
Laura Petherbridge
Laura Petherbridge, author, speaker and life coach presents topics on women, relationships, stepfamilies, co-parenting, divorce prevention, and divorce recovery. She is the author of Stepfamilies of the Bible: Timeless Wisdom for Blended Families, The Smart Stepmom, co-authored with Ron Deal, 101 Tips for The Smart Stepmom , Quiet Moments for the Stepmom Soul, When “I Do” Becomes “I Don’t”—Practical Steps for Healing During Separation and Divorce, and Seeking a Silent Night: Unwrapping a Stepfamily Christmas. Laura has spoken at: The Billy Graham Training Center, Lifeway, MomLife Today, Hearts at Home, FamilyLife, FamilyLife Blended, Celebrate Kids (Dr. Kathy Koch), The American Family Association, and Cowgirls Get Together conferences. In addition to the USA, she has spoken in Australia and South Africa.
Her various TV, podcasts, radio broadcasts, and articles include:
• Focus on the Family with Jim Daly • Raising Christian Kids with Lee Ann Mancini • Family Life Today • Moody Broadcasting (including Chris Fabry Live) • 100 Huntley Street (Canada) • HomeWord with Jim Burns • Celebrate Kids with Dr Kathy Koch • Family Talk with Dr. James Dobson • Parenting with Ginger Hubbard • Culture Proof • Salem Communications • Lifeway Magazine (Monthly) She and Steve, her husband of 40 years, reside in Atlanta. She has 2 stepsons, and 2 grandchildren. Laura’s contact information is: [email protected] and www.TheSmartStepmom.com IG #smartstepmom
Why Stepfamilies of the Bible?
The 2025 Barna research shows: • 53% of children under 18 are living in complex family environments • For Gen Z (born after 1996) the stats go to 74%
In Stepfamilies of the Bible Laura addresses, and inspires, those connected to a blended family. This includes in-laws, grandparents, extended family, and adult step kids.
Her relevant topics include:
Overcoming Jealousy: Abraham, Sarah, and Hagar Although they lived thousands of years ago, Abe is caught in the middle between two warring women.
Overcoming Rejection: Laban, Jacob, Rebekah, and Leah Feeling like you don't measure up is a common problem in a blended family
Overcoming Despair: Elkanah, Hannah and Peninnah When it seems like God isn't hearing our cries for help, this biblical family reveals how God steps in when we want to give up.
Overcoming Bitterness: Joseph Part 1: Siblings, Stepsiblings and Half Siblings If there’s anyone in the Bible who knows what it is to be despised by stepfamily it’s Joseph.
Overcoming Exclusion: Joseph Part 2: When Your Family Hurts You Because the bond between stepfamily members is rarely instantaneous it requires grace to overcome the hurt that can be inflicted.
Overcoming Pride: King David Part 1: Wives, Wives, and more Wives Stepfamilies don't have a family tree, they have a family forest. And David’s plethora of wives reveal that “the more the merrier” isn't always true. Overcoming Failure: King David’s Part 2 Poor Choices David’s repentance is the quintessential example of what God can do with a man or woman who sincerely humbles himself and admits to sin.
Overcoming Insults: Jesus, Mary, Joseph, and Half Siblings Jesus experienced extreme rejection and ridicule from his stepsiblings.
Each chapter concludes with a study guide.