Home Row: Just Keep Writing

Scarlet Hiltibidal on Writing and Hopeful-Ish

Jeff Medders reconnects with Scarlet Hiltibidal to discuss her latest book, 'Hopefulish.' They explore the themes of faith, humor, and the writing process, delving into Scarlet's personal experiences with loss and hope. The discussion highlights the importance of community, the challenges of writing, and the need for authenticity in sharing one's journey. Scarltt shares her unique stories, including a humorous yet poignant tale about donkey attacks, and offers insights into the writing process, encouraging aspiring writers to embrace their craft and trust in God's plan. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Welcome 03:57 Scarlett's Writing Journey and New Book 08:52 Reconciling Faith with Overwhelming Feelings 16:06 The Donkey Attack Story 21:17 Navigating Authenticity in Writing 28:07 The Journey to Becoming a Published Author 31:22 The Reality of Writing Routines 35:09 Finding Time to Write 44:11 Tools of the Trade 46:01 Rapid Fire Questions and Final Thoughts

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Jimmy Needham on Writing Songs and Kids' Books

Jeff Medders and Jimmy Needham explore songwriting, writing for children, and the creative process. They discuss the importance of storytelling, the challenges of writing, and the joy of creating meaningful content for kids. Jimmy shares insights from his journey as a musician and author, emphasizing the need for brevity and clarity in writing, especially for children's literature. The discussion also touches on the significance of playfulness in the writing process and how it can enhance creativity. Both of Jimmy's Books at WTS Sing! Hymnal at WTS Books. Use code MEDDERS for 5% off. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Background 03:00 The Journey of Songwriting 05:59 Writing for Kids and Podcasting 08:31 The Art of Prose and Poetry 11:50 Lessons from Songwriting for Prose Writers 22:58 Exploring the Psalms: A Journey of Experience 24:33 The Passion Behind Writing Children's Books 25:31 Discipleship Through Storytelling: Real Bad Guys 28:04 The Quest for the Best: A Journey of Satisfaction 30:58 The Writing Process: From Index Cards to Books 38:07 Lightning Round: Insights and Recommendations

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Jim Hamilton on Writing

Dr. Jim Hamilton shares his journey as a biblical scholar and writer, discussing the importance of gratitude, mentorship, and early influences that shaped his career. He delves into his academic work, including his dissertation and subsequent publications, emphasizing the core message of biblical theology, which centers on God's glory and salvation through judgment. Dr. Hamilton also highlights his latest book on the literary structure of the Gospel of John, offering insights into the art of writing and the balance between academic and pastoral responsibilities. He provides valuable advice for aspiring writers, encouraging perseverance and the cultivation of a rich intellectual life. Get Hamilton's new book: In the Beginning Was the Word: Finding Meaning in the Literary Structure of the Gospel of John. Buy at WTSBooks and use code: MEDDERS, and get 5% off your purchase. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Gratitude 02:42 Writing Journey and Early Influences 05:45 First Publications and Academic Contributions 08:48 The Core Message of Biblical Theology 11:43 Recent Works and Literary Structure of John's Gospel 14:32 The Genius of Biblical Authors 17:39 Approaches to Writing and Commentary 20:42 Balancing Writing with Life Responsibilities 23:27 Setting Writing Goals and Expectations 27:41 Writing Habits and Routines 32:15 The Art of Structuring Content 38:48 Perseverance in Writing and Publishing 41:03 Rapid Fire Questions

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Mitch Chase and Writing Routines and Rhythms

In this engaging conversation, Jeff Medders and Mitch Chase explore the intricacies of writing, the publishing process, and the balance between pastoral duties and creative endeavors. Mitch shares insights into his writing journey, the importance of passion in his projects, and how he manages his time effectively. They discuss the significance of morning writing sessions, the role of inspiration, and the rituals that accompany Mitch's writing process, including his coffee preferences. The episode concludes with a lightning round of questions that reveal Mitch's thoughts on writing habits and influences. https://mitchchase.substack.com/ Check out all of Mitch's books 00:00 Introduction to Mitch Chase and His Work 02:43 The Publishing Process and Timeframes 07:46 Passion-Driven Writing 13:18 Writing Rhythms and Routines 18:27 Techniques for Effective Writing Sessions 24:12 Coffee Rituals and Writing Habits 28:37 Influential Writers and Their Impact 31:27 Lightning Round

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Amanda Bible Williams and The Bible is For You

In this episode, Jeff Medders interviews Amanda Bible Williams, co-founder of She Reads Truth, discussing her journey as a writer, the mission of She Reads Truth, and the release of her new book, 'The Bible is for You.' Amanda shares insights on the importance of community in Bible reading, her writing process, and the unique aspects of her new devotional book that aims to make Scripture accessible to everyone. The conversation also touches on the challenges of writing, the significance of prayer, and the beauty of good design in publishing. BUY ON AMAZON 00:00 Introduction to Amanda Bible Williams 02:54 The Mission of She Reads Truth 05:57 The Journey to Becoming a Writer 11:44 The Launch of 'The Bible is for You' 21:01 Unique Features of the New Devotional 29:44 The Writing Process and Environment 31:53 Creating a Productive Writing Environment 39:34 Finding Rhythm in Writing 46:31 The Art of Devotional Writing 48:47 Rapid Fire 55:08 Dependence on God in Writing

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Sean DeMars on Writing

In this episode of Home Row, host Jeff Medders welcomes Sean DeMars, a pastor and author, to discuss his journey in podcasting, writing, and church revitalization. They explore Sean's experiences as a missionary in Peru, the inception of his podcast 'Room for Nuance', and his latest books, including 'Redemption Song'. The conversation delves into the writing process, the importance of being grounded in a local church, and the challenges and joys of writing for a Christian audience. Sean shares insights on how to approach writing with purpose and the significance of prayer in the creative process. 00:00 Intro 02:41 The Journey of Sean DeMars 05:56 New Book: Redemption Song 09:02 Writing Journey and Early Works 11:51 Rebel to Your Will 15:39 The Process of Writing Redemption Song 31:05 The Writing Process: Rituals and Inspirations 36:14 Embracing the Identity of a Writer 40:16 Finding the Right Environment for Writing 42:55 Balancing Pastoral Duties and Writing 46:06 Rapid Fire Questions: Insights into Writing Preferences 55:06 The Importance of Prayer in Writing

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Glenna Marshall on Writing, Psalm 139, and Loving Scripture

In this episode of Home Row, Jeff Medders welcomes writer Glenna Marshall to discuss her journey as a writer, her latest book 'Known and Loved', and the importance of God's love as expressed in Psalm 139. They explore the writing process, the challenges of balancing writing with publicity, and the significance of imprecatory prayers. Glenna shares her insights on how to engage with Scripture and the transformative power of God's love, emphasizing the need for writers to serve their readers and glorify God through their work. Glenna's New Book Jeff's Amazon Author Page Chapters 00:00 Welcome Back to Home Row 02:40 The Journey to Becoming a Writer 05:59 The Writing Process and Life as an Author 15:47 Exploring Psalm 139 and God's Love 23:57 Surprises in Writing and Understanding God's Affection 28:48 Understanding Psalm 139: Comfort in God's Presence 30:18 The Journey of Writing: Balancing Projects 31:32 Navigating the Challenges of Multiple Book Contracts 34:29 The Role of Deadlines in Writing 39:56 Writing for the Kingdom: Purpose and Passion 42:25 The Subtext of Writing: Encouraging Love for Scripture 46:17 Rapid Fire Questions: Insights into the Writer's Life Takeaways Glenna Marshall emphasizes the importance of journaling for writers. The writing process can be messy and unglamorous, often taking place in everyday settings. Writing is a tool for serving the church and helping others know God's love. Imprecatory prayers can be understood through the lens of God's love and justice. Glenna's writing aims to make readers love God's Word and understand His affection for them. The balance between writing and publicity can be challenging for authors. Glenna's writing journey began with journaling as a child and evolved into blogging and book writing. The significance of Psalm 139 is highlighted as a declaration of God's delight in His people. Writers should focus on their purpose and the impact they want to have on their readers. Every writer has a subtext that influences their work.

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Matt Smethurst on Writing and Tim Keller

In this revival episode of Home Row, host Jeff Medders welcomes back Matt Smethurst to discuss his new book, 'Tim Keller on the Christian Life.' They explore Keller's legacy, the writing process, and the lessons learned from his work. The conversation delves into the importance of clarity in writing, the organization of research, and the personal transformation experienced through Keller's teachings. The episode concludes with rapid-fire questions that reveal insights into writing habits and preferences. 00:00 Welcome Back and Introduction 03:00 Exploring Tim Keller's Impact 05:17 The Writing Process and Lessons from Keller 08:33 Behind the Scenes of Writing the Book 11:13 Research and Organization Techniques 17:20 Influences and Inspiration 31:24 Keller's Books and Recommendations 39:21 Personal Transformation through Keller's Teachings 43:18 Rapid Fire Questions and Closing Thoughts Takeaways Keller's writing is characterized by clarity and relevance. The importance of life experience in writing. Writing should serve the reader, not the writer's ego. Keller's books address timeless topics that resonate across generations. The writing process can be overwhelming but manageable when broken down. Research and organization are key to effective writing. Imagery and illustrations enhance the reader's experience. Keller's teachings remind us of the simplicity of the Christian life. Every writer should strive for beautiful clarity in their work. Personal transformation often comes from engaging deeply with Scripture.

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Jonathan Pennington on Small Preaching & Writing

Jared C. Wilson on Fiction, Academics, and More

Matt Smethurst on Deacons and Writing

Brandon J. O'Brien on Writing for Life and Ministry

Is writing an article or book all that different from writing a sermon or Sunday school lesson? Listen as Brandon J. O'Brien talks about his new book, Writing For Life and Ministry: A Practical Guide to the Writing Process for Teachers and Preachers.

Mitchell Chase on Allegory and Typology

Mitch Chase (PhD, The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary) is the pastor at Kosmosdale Baptist Church and an adjunct professor at Boyce College in Louisville, Kentucky. He’s the author of Behold Our Sovereign God, The Gospel Is for Christians (2nd ed.),

J.T. English on Deep Discipleship

J. T. English, Ph.D., is an author and teacher, and currently serves as the lead pastor of Storyline Fellowship in Arvada, CO. Previously, JT served as a pastor at The Village Church in Flower Mound, TX, where he founded and directed The Village Church In

Jen Oshman on Writing and Enough About Me

Jen Oshman is a wife and mom to four daughters and has served as a missionary for almost two decades on three continents. She currently resides in Colorado, where she and her husband serve with Pioneers International, and she encourages her church-plantin

Brandon Crowe on Writing and Productivity

Dr. Brandon Crowe joins the show today to talk about writing and his new book, Every Day Matters: A Biblical Approach to Productivity.

Courtney Reissig on Writing and Emotions

Courtney Reissig is a writer and Bible teacher living in Little Rock, Arkansas. She is the proud mom of four sons, happy wife to Daniel, and author of three books: The Accidental Feminist, Glory in the Ordinary, and Teach Me to Feel: Worshiping Through th

Tony Reinke on Writing, Spectacles, and BlogFathers

Tony Reinke joins the show again to talk about writing, the uniqueness of his latest book, Competing Spectacles, and we talk BlogFathers and PodFathers.

Patrick Schreiner On Writing

Dr. Patrick Schreiner joins the show to talk about his ongoing writing projects, academic writing, and some really helpful writing hacks.

Wesley Hill on Writing, The Lord's Prayer, and the Trinity

Dr. Wesley Hill joins the show to talk about writing and his new book from Lexham Press on The Lord's Prayer.