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Christian Publishing Show

Thomas Umstattd Jr.

The Christian Publishing Show is a podcast to help Christian authors change the world. We talk about how to improve in the craft of writing, how to get published, and how to market effectively. Get expert advice from industry insiders. Hosted by Thomas Umstattd Jr.

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  • 20 episodes
  • monthly
  • Avg 57 min
  • English

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  • #179
    August 18 · 50 min

    How to Write a Book in 60 Days

    How long have you been working on your novel? Has it been years? How do you know when it’s finished? Have you considered why you might not have finished it yet? What if you could finish a book in two months? Would it be a better book than the one you’ve spent years writing? Or would it be worse? In this week’s episode, you’ll hear from Colleen Mitchell, a writing coach and host of the Novel Writing Podcast, who spent years running a 60-Day Novel Writing Challenge that's taken writers of every skill level from blank page to finished draft. You’ll learn: When rewriting might be keeping you from finishing How to propel yourself through the “messy middle” Whether you should write faster (or not) Where you can find free guidance and a system for finishing your book Whether you're sitting on a half-finished manuscript or an idea that's been in your head for years, listen in or read the blog version to find a practical roadmap to get it done. Blog Link: https://www.christianpublishingshow.com/how-to-write-a-novel-in-60-days-with-colleen-mitchell/ Authormedia.social link: http://authormedia.social/c/christian-publishing-show/how-to-write-a-novel-in-60-days-with-colleen-mitchell/ Support the show

  • #178
    July 14 · 1 hr 15 min

    The Four Loves That Drive Book Sales

    Have you ever finished a book you loved, handed it to a friend, and heard back, "It was fine"? That disconnect has nothing to do with the quality of the writing. It has everything to do with a principle C.S. Lewis understood well enough to write classics that have endured for decades. In this week's episode, I sat down with bestselling novelist Angela Hunt to break down the four ancient loves that drive all fiction, and how mastering them can help you produce a bestseller and a classic. You’ll learn The type of love almost every genre needs more of, and why the most violent stories need it most. How the loneliness epidemic is creating a massive hunger in readers, and which type of love lonely readers are yearning for. The type of love that makes for a classic but is hardest to write and easiest to botch. Get it wrong and your climax feels cheesy. Get it right and readers won't shut up about your book. We also explore the dark side of each love and how to use that tension to propel your plot forward. If the stakes in your story aren’t working or you’re sick of cheap, salacious storylines, listen in or read the blog version to learn how to incorporate these four types of love into your story. This one might change how you outline your next book or build your characters. Blog link: https://www.authormedia.com/the-four-loves-that-drive-fiction/ Support the show

    • Chapters
  • #180
    June 2 · 52 min

    Can Catholic Authors Use AI?

    About a year ago I launched a new podcast and YouTube show called Author Update. It is primarily a news show but recently we covered a news story I wanted to share with you here on the Christian Publishing Show. Pope Leo XIV recently published an encyclical titled MAGNIFICA HUMANITAS. It the the best theological breakdown I’ve seen on AI, and that means a lot coming from me because I’m not Catholic. I’m not aware of any authoritative stances on AI from either the Orthodox or Protestant churches, which means, if and when those do come out, they will be responding to and echoing the Pope’s Encyclical. If you have ever been curious about how, when, and why Christians can use AI I think you will find this breakdown helpful. But I want to share one other news story first that will help give some context. This story is about the Anti AI Butalrian Jihad that my cohost Jonathan Surger and I break down. Support the show

    • Chapters
  • #177
    May 19 · 1 hr 54 min

    Ask a Literary Agent with Steve Laube

    Steve Laube and Thomas Umstattd, Jr. answer questions from authors about publishing and discuss Steve's new book for writers called Sacred Margins. Support the show

  • #176
    May 12 · 1 hr 5 min

    How to Write Books Kids Can't Put Down

    A kid in my fifth-grade Sunday school class recently asked, "What's social media?" She had no idea. And she wasn't the only one. Gen Alpha grew up with less screen time, more parental guardrails, and completely different expectations for the stories they want to read. That means, middle-grade books are going through a shift right now, and the rest of publishing will feel it soon. On this week's episode of the Christian Publishing Show, you’ll hear from award-winning middle grade author J.J. Johnson, who shares how to write books that reluctant readers actually want to pick up. You'll learn: What word count and chapter length are best for this new generation of readers. Which protagonists are resonating with them (Hint: think Minecraft, not Diary of a Wimpy Kid.) How to title and write books that interest kids (and are willingly purchased by their parents!) If you want to write for middle-grade readers, who will soon become YA and adult readers, you need to know how they are different from previous generations of readers. Listen in or read the blog version to get the inside scoop. Support the show

  • #175
    April 7 · 1 hr 10 min

    How to Stay Motivated When Writing Gets Hard

    To say yes to something good, you often have to say no to other things. In the past, we’ve discussed that sometimes quitting writing is the right move for your career and life. But what about when you know you can't quit? What do you do when you feel called to write but the work is hard, success is nowhere in sight, and you're dragging your feet? What if you need the income from writing to feed your family? In this episode of the Christian Publishing Show, Brian Hicks joins me to talk about how writers can keep going. Brian has spent decades studying what separates people who push through from people who give up. You’ll learn: The ultimate motivation hack for Christian writers that has nothing to do with bestseller lists or sales The daily choice that will change your writing life The best (and worst) way to start your writing career Listen in or read the blog version to find out how you can keep writing when you're broke, rejected, and exhausted. Blog Link: https://www.christianpublishingshow.com/how-to-stay-motivated-when-writing-gets-hard/ Author Media.social Link: https://authormedia.social/c/christian-publishing-show/how-to-stay-motivated-when-writing-gets-hard Support the show

    • Chapters
  • #174
    February 17 · 53 min

    How to Keep Bad Medicine from Killing Your Novel’s Credibility

    Have you ever watched a medical show and thought, “Is that how CPR really works”? Your readers are thinking the same thing about your book. In the Google era, writing sloppy medical details was risky for your writing career. In the AI era, they’re deadly to your credibility and career. Readers now carry little AI tools in their pockets that can pass medical exams. If your character survives a car crash and goes boxing in the next chapter, someone will notice. In this month’s episode, I interview physician and award-winning novelist Ronda Wells of NovelMalpractice.com about how to write medically accurate fiction, even if you have zero medical background. You’ll learn How concussions and amnesia can be related (but aren’t always!) How to use medical events (and their consequences) to increase tension in your story Why the “sip and die” trope rarely makes sense How historical context changes everything from treatments to fatality Medical accuracy does not kill drama. It intensifies it. If you want deeper tension, stronger verisimilitude, and stories that honor your readers’ trust, listen in or read the blog version. Blog Link: https://www.christianpublishingshow.com/how-to-keep-bad-medicine-from-killing-your-novels-credibility/ Support the show

    • Chapters
  • #173
    January 13 · 59 min

    Jerry B. Jenkins’ Writing Advice for New Authors

    Have you decided to write a book but feel overwhelmed by everything there is to learn? Wondering where to start, what to write first, or how to know if your writing is any good? In this episode, I talk with New York Times bestselling author Jerry B. Jenkins (215 books, 73+ million copies sold) about how new and beginning authors can start the right way. In this interview, you’ll discover: What your first project should be a book and how it can help you grow quickly as a writer. A mindset shift that will change how you think about feedback How to find your writing voice If you want practical advice from a seasoned writer that will save you years of frustration, listen in or read the blog version. Support the show

    • Chapters
  • #172
    Dec 16, 2025 · 49 min

    Why Every Author Should Try Writing a Mystery at Least Once

    Mystery isn't just a genre. It's a storytelling skill that every author can use to keep readers turning pages, no matter what they write. In this month’s episode, USA Today bestselling mystery author Sara Rosett reveals how writers of any genre can use elements from the mystery genre to keep readers hooked. Whether you write mystery, fantasy, romance, or nonfiction, this conversation will change the way you think about story structure and reader engagement. You’ll discover: Which genres benefit from using elements of mystery writing How to hide clues and red herrings in a way that feels natural but surprising Common mistakes new mystery writers make and how to avoid them If you want to build stories that feel more immersive, compelling, and satisfying, listen in or read the blog version and make your next story un-put-down-able. Support the show

    • Chapters
  • #171
    Nov 11, 2025 · 45 min

    How to Write Endings Readers Can't Stop Talking About

    You’ve heard it said that a great beginning will sell your book, but a great ending will sell your next book. Every bestseller becomes a bestseller because word spreads from reader to reader, and what creates that good word of mouth? Satisfying endings. In this week’s episode, you’ll learn: What makes an ending satisfying (hint: it doesn’t have to be happy!) How endings must vary from genre to genre What advantage Christian authors have over secular authors when writing endings Listen in or read the blog version if you want to write an ending that your readers can’t stop talking about. Support the show

    • Chapters
  • #170
    Oct 21, 2025 · 52 min

    Has Christian Publishing Gone Woke?

    Many authors have received that dreaded rejection letter from a traditional Christian publisher siting platform size as the reason for the rejection. Is there a platform size that makes you a shoo-in for a traditional Christian publisher? What if even millions of followers can’t get you a contract with a traditional Christian publisher? Is there something else going on? In this episode, Chase Replogle and I discuss trends in Christian publishing that we’ve observed from the inside. We’ll discuss What makes a Christian publisher “Christian” Questions we ought to be asking of the Christian publishing industry How Christian authors can navigate the current publishing landscape Listen in or read the blog version to get a behind-the-scenes glimpse into how Christian publishing has changed over the years. Support the show

    • Chapters
  • #169
    Oct 7, 2025 · 50 min

    AI Tools for Authors (Writing Off Social Crosscast)

    If social media leaves you drained and you’re unsure what to do with AI, this week’s episode is for you. I recently appeared on the Writing off Social podcast to unpack how authors can step off the social treadmill and put AI to work without losing their voice. In our conversation you’ll learn: What boundaries you can set around your use of AI Where to start using AI in your work My prediction for the future of nonfiction (and how to make sure you control your brand of expertise) Listen in or read the blog version and get practical steps for using AI to increase your productivity and relieve you of the writing and publishing tasks you don’t enjoy. Support the show

    • Chapters
  • #168
    Sep 15, 2025 · 39 min

    Christian Author Assassinated

    Last week brought heartbreaking news. Charlie Kirk, a Christian author and speaker, was shot and killed while addressing his audience. In this special episode of the Christian Publishing Show, we share an Author Update conversation about what Charlie’s life, work, and death mean for Christian authors today. You’ll discover: How Charlie built his platform through books, speaking, and social media without compromising his convictions. Why listening well to your audience can make you a stronger communicator and writer. What authors should (and shouldn’t) say during emotionally charged cultural moments. This is a sobering episode, but also an inspiring one for anyone called to write, speak, and share truth with courage. Listen in, read the blog version, or watch on YouTube. Support the show

    • Chapters
  • #167
    Aug 12, 2025 · 57 min

    Is AI okay for Christian Authors?

    Is using AI sinful, helpful, or just complicated? In this thought-provoking episode, bestselling author Kate Angelo joins us to discuss the ethical, practical, and spiritual implications of AI for Christian writers. From biblical analogies to real-world tools, this conversation explores some pressing questions for Christians about AI, creativity, and ethics, without the hype or fear-mongering. In this episode, you'll discover: How AI is similar to and different from other technologies that became mainstream How good and evil impact or result from the use of AI How Christians can leverage AI for good Whether you're AI-curious or AI-cautious, listen in or read the blog version to discover how Christian authors are thinking about AI and how it can be leveraged for good in your marketing, productivity, and writing. Support the show

    • Chapters
  • #166
    Jul 8, 2025 · 57 min

    21st Century Apologetics: Why Christians No Longer Need to be Relevant

    The cultural ground beneath us is shifting fast. The kinds of books that impacted your faith a decade ago, and possibly inspired you to write, likely won’t have the same effect on readers in this cultural moment. How do you write books that resonate with readers without compromising biblical truth? In this week’s episode, I speak with pastor and author Chase Replogle to talk about 21st-century apologetics and why Christian authors must rethink what it means to “engage culture.” You’ll discover What current readers value more (fact or feelings?) How your book can rise above the noise without creating more noise What Jordan Peterson and other influential voices teach writers about relevance If you want to impact people for Christ by answering the questions they’re asking without compromising truth or sounding cliché, this conversation is for you. Support the show

    • Chapters
  • #165
    Jun 10, 2025 · 58 min

    Tension: The Key Ingredient for a Novel Readers Can’t Put Down

    Why do some books keep readers up all night while others fall flat? If you've ever wondered whether your novel is gripping enough, you're not alone. One of the biggest challenges writers face is keeping readers hooked to the end. In this week’s episode, we dive deep into what truly drives great storytelling. Whether you're writing legal thrillers, Amish fiction, or epic fantasy, tension is your secret weapon, and knowing how to dial it up or down can make or break your story. In this episode, you’ll learn: Why reading current bestsellers (without judgment!) is key to leveling up your writing How different genres handle tension differently What every author needs to understand about their reader’s motive for reading Listen in or read the blog version to discover the many types of tension and how to weave it into your novel to keep readers reading to the end. Support the show

    • Chapters
  • #164
    May 13, 2025 · 40 min

    How to Write a Novel Faster Using Dictation Software

    Did you know the Apostle Paul didn’t write the book of Romans by hand? He dictated it to a someone else who wrote it down, and he’s not the only famous author to do so. In this week’s episode, we explore how authors from Cicero to Agatha Christie to USA Today bestselling author Misty M. Beller have used dictation to write faster, better, and with more freedom. In this interview with Misty, you’ll learn: ✅ How to overcome the intimidation of hearing your own voice ✅ Which dictation tools are most accurate and beginner-friendly ✅ How to spur creativity and increase your output without burning out Whether you’re writing fiction or nonfiction, dictation can save you time and unlock your most natural storytelling voice. Misty shares how she writes up to six books a year using this technique and how you can too. Write faster. Write smarter. Write like the Apostle Paul. Listen in or read the blog version to learn more. Support the show

  • #163
    May 10, 2025 · 47 min

    How to Write Your Novel from the Middle

    Most authors start writing from the beginning. But what if the beginning is the wrong place to start? In our most recent episode, I talk with bestselling author and writing teacher James Scott Bell about one of his most powerful ideas: the mirror moment. You’ll learn ✅ Why the midpoint is more than just the halfway mark ✅ How to turn a sagging middle into your novel’s strongest moment ✅ What Casablanca, Goodnight Moon, and The Cat in the Hat have in common ✅ How one scene can help you fix your beginning, your ending, and everything in between Whether you’re a plotter or a pantser, listen in or read the blog version of this episode. It will change how you approach your next novel. Support the show

  • #162
    Mar 11, 2025 · 47 min

    Discovery Writing 101: How to Craft Gripping Stories Without an Outline

    The term "pantser" has been used to describe writing a book without an outline. At writers conferences, outlining and "pantsing" (also known as discovery writing) are often framed as rivals. However, most writers fall between the two extremes. I've seen successful authors across that spectrum. What truly matters is finding the method that works best for you. While there are countless books on outlining, there are very few on discovery writing. So how do you learn to "write by the seat of your pants"? In this month's episode, I interviewed bestselling author Steven James, who shared his secrets for discovery writing—the art of writing "by the seat of your pants" while creating gripping stories. He shared ✔️ Four questions that can solve any plot problem ✔️ What truly drives a great story to a satisfying ending ✔️ How to use pivots to surprise and satisfy your readers If you've ever struggled with outlining or wondered if "pantsing" could work for you, this episode will give you the guidance and courage to give it a try. Listen in or read the blog version to learn more. Support the show

    • Chapters
  • #161
    Feb 11, 2025 · 51 min

    Beginnings and Endings of Novels with Angela Hunt

    Have you ever started a book but struggled to get past the first few chapters? Or maybe you finished one, only to feel let down by the ending? The truth is, beginnings and endings can make or break a novel. In this week’s episode, I sit down with Christy Award-winning author Angela Hunt to unpack what makes a strong opening that hooks readers and a satisfying ending that keeps them talking. We’ll cover: How to craft an opening that keeps readers turning pages The secret to endings that spark word-of-mouth recommendations Common mistakes that weaken your novel’s impact If you want to grab your reader’s attention from page one and leave them with an unforgettable conclusion, listen in or read the blog version. Support the show

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