Synopsis
Shelley Hitz is on a mission to help you reach more people with your message because she believes every person has God-given gifts and abilities to impact the world. Each episode of Author Audience will be packed with ACTIONABLE training, spiritual inspiration, and encouragement for you to write, publish, and market your books. However, this podcast is not just about how to write and self-publish a book. It is so much more. Episodes also include topics on book marketing, social media marketing, how to sell more books, product creation, coaching, speaking, etc. Shelley’s passion is to help you connect with your audience in the best way possible. If you are a Christian author, Christian entrepreneur, or someone who simply wants to reach more people with your message, you're in the right place! The question is, are you ready to let your light SHINE?
Episodes
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Fulfilling your Ministry
05/11/2025 Duration: 19minNew 90-day sprint to finish your book starts September 10, 2026. Details at: https://www.trainingauthors.com/sprintFulfilling your Ministry "And say to Archippus, "Be sure to carry out the ministry the Lord gave you." Colossians 4:17 NIV = "complete the ministry" ESV = "fulfill the ministry" The Message = "And, oh, yes, tell Archippus, "Do your best in the job you received from the Master. Do your very best." "I am writing to Philemon, our beloved co-worker, and to our sister Apphia, and to our fellow soldier Archippus, and to the church that meets in your house." Philemon 1:1b-2 Most likely Philemon, his wife Apphia, and their son Archippus. All in the same household. Imagine one person being singled out at the end of this letter to the Colossians church. Most scholars see Paul's admonition to Archippus as simple encouragement, similar to Paul's exhortations in his epistles to Timothy and Titus. It's interesting to note that Paul had never actually visited the Colossians church in person
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The Writing Rhythm That Works (Even When You're Busy)
28/10/2025 Duration: 04minNew 90-day sprint to finish your book starts September 10, 2026. Details at: https://www.trainingauthors.com/sprintThink you need a long weekend or a perfect schedule to finish your book? Think again. In today's episode, Shelley shares the simple but powerful writing rhythm that's helping Christian Book Academy members finally finish their drafts — even in the middle of real life. If you've been stuck waiting for "someday," this is your permission to stop striving and start showing up — just 15 minutes at a time. Join us at https://christianbookacademy.com/ Take a step of faith and finally finish your book. Don't forget to join us for the next 90-day sprint to finish your book here: https://www.trainingauthors.com/sprint Use coupon code INNERCIRCLE25 for 25% off through September 12, 2026.
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Stop Struggling with Book Marketing
28/10/2025 Duration: 04minNew 90-day sprint to finish your book starts September 10, 2026. Details at: https://www.trainingauthors.com/sprintDo you feel stuck when it's time to market your book? Do you feel stuck when it's time to market your book? In this episode, Shelley shares how the Book Marketing Multiplier Workshop will give you a simple 3-step framework—Plan → Prompt → Post—to turn your own words into ready-to-share content in minutes. You'll walk away with emails, posts, and graphics you can use right away, plus a weekly rhythm to keep reaching readers without overwhelm.
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The 10-Minute Method to Pick Your First Book Topic
24/10/2025 Duration: 06minNew 90-day sprint to finish your book starts September 10, 2026. Details at: https://www.trainingauthors.com/sprintIf you've been spinning your wheels trying to decide which book to write first… this episode is for you. In just 5 minutes, you'll walk through a simple but powerful process to: ✅ Narrow down your book ideas ✅ Choose the breakthrough you're ready to write about ✅ Find the clarity and confidence to move forward This is the same process we teach inside our Book Writing Lab workshop — and it's helped so many Christian writers finally get unstuck and finish their books. You don't need to write your entire life story. You just need to start with one message you've lived.
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Worried You're Picking the Wrong Book Idea?
21/10/2025 Duration: 06minNew 90-day sprint to finish your book starts September 10, 2026. Details at: https://www.trainingauthors.com/sprintStill waiting for clarity? Maybe it's waiting on you. If you've been spinning your wheels trying to choose the perfect book idea, here's the truth: it's not about finding the flawless starting point. It's about obeying the nudge God already gave you and moving forward in faith. If you're stuck in overthinking mode, paralyzed by the fear of choosing wrong — this is your invitation to start simple, start small, and start now. Join us inside Christian Book Academy and take the next faithful step toward finishing your book at https://ChristianBookAcademy.com Don't forget to join us for the next 90-day sprint to finish your book here: https://www.trainingauthors.com/sprint Use coupon code INNERCIRCLE25 for 25% off through September 12, 2026.
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The books that sell (and get finished) on Amazon might surprise you…
16/10/2025 Duration: 06minNew 90-day sprint to finish your book starts September 10, 2026. Details at: https://www.trainingauthors.com/sprintMost Christian writers think "longer = better." But the data — and reader behavior — tell a completely different story. In this episode, I'll show you why shorter books not only get finished but also sell. You'll see the Amazon strategy behind it, how readers behave, and what's working inside Christian Book Academy right now. Want help finally finishing and publishing your book? Join us inside https://ChristianBookAcademy.com Don't forget to join us for the next 90-day sprint to finish your book here: https://www.trainingauthors.com/sprint Use coupon code INNERCIRCLE25 for 25% off through September 12, 2026.
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Persistent Pests
01/10/2025 Duration: 26minNew 90-day sprint to finish your book starts September 10, 2026. Details at: https://www.trainingauthors.com/sprintPersistent Pests "Catch all the foxes, those little foxes, before they ruin the vineyard of love, for the grapevines are blossoming!" Song of Songs 2:15 These little foxes aren't yet fully grown. Nobody would think a cuddly little fox would be dangerous to have around. They love nothing better than to eat the young grapes before they come out fully. Thus, they wreak havoc on the vines of our walk with the Lord. Let's mention 5 of the "little foxes" or persistent pests that ruin some of our fruitful writing before it's fully ripened… 1.) Sensitiveness or easily offended. It can be a small chip on our shoulder but flare up if we're not given the respect we desire. It can stifle our creativity in writing and dry up the flow of the Spirit. Pray that we can have the mind and humility of Christ. 2.) Laziness. Too lazy to dig into the Word. Too lazy to spend time in prayer. This also leaks int
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How to Sell 1000 Books a Month
11/09/2025 Duration: 20minNew 90-day sprint to finish your book starts September 10, 2026. Details at: https://www.trainingauthors.com/sprintDo you dream of being a bestselling author? Have you written a book but have no idea how to sell it? Can you envision your message in the hands of thousands of readers? Unlock the secrets to epic book sales with Susan Neal's book How to Sell 1,000 Books a Month. Whether you're a new writer or an experienced author looking to elevate your marketing tactics, this book offers a treasure of insights to significantly boost your sales and increase the effective outreach of your unique message. Susan Neal, an award-winning author and seasoned marketer, condenses years of successful sales and marketing strategies into practical steps that can turn your book into an award-winning bestseller. Learn how to: Create a focused and polished manuscript Captivate and grow your audience Master the art of online marketing Leverage social media to build a compelling author brand Use keywords to boost your book's vi
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Compassion Makes a Difference
03/09/2025 Duration: 25minNew 90-day sprint to finish your book starts September 10, 2026. Details at: https://www.trainingauthors.com/sprintCompassion Makes a Difference When does compassion matter most? It's when it's least deserved. Jesus showed us what it means to have compassion and what difference it makes in the world and for eternity. This is your friendly reminder to be more intentional about viewing the world with a compassionate heart. It makes a difference. Dak Frederick is an Author Success Coach and has spent hundreds of hours helping writers reach their goals. His clients describe him as patient, humble, and deeply invested in their success. Beyond writing, Dak is a singer and musician who enjoys playing the piano and guitar. He's been joyfully married for almost fourteen years and is a proud father to two girls. Dak is a Retired U.S. Marine Gunnery Sergeant. He holds a Master's in Counseling from Liberty University, a Bachelor's in Communication from Ashford University, as well as Digital Marketing Certificates from eC
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Dying to Ourselves
06/08/2025 Duration: 22minNew 90-day sprint to finish your book starts September 10, 2026. Details at: https://www.trainingauthors.com/sprintDying to Ourselves How would you answer this question if God asked you… "If I should hand you a silver platter with one item, what would you like?" Perhaps the best answer: "Give me your will for my life, O God, with this, there is nothing more." S.D. Gordon relates a similar experience, "I sometimes thought, what if God were to say to me: 'I want to give you something as special as a love-gift; an extra because I love you: what would you like to have?' Do you know what I thought I would say? 'Dear God, you choose. I choose what You choose.' An example of me asking Shelley where she would like to eat. Sometimes she responds, "You choose, I have decision fatigue."
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Ambassadors for Christ
02/07/2025 Duration: 23minNew 90-day sprint to finish your book starts September 10, 2026. Details at: https://www.trainingauthors.com/sprintAmbassadors for Christ What does being an ambassador for Christ involve? Debra L. Butterfield shows the comparison between a US ambassador and an ambassador for Christ. She outlines the purpose and duties to give us a bigger picture of our work for the Lord. God has given us each a unique message to share with the world as His ambassadors. Bio: Debra L. Butterfield is the author of eleven books, a freelance editor, former editorial director of CrossRiver Media Group, and a former copywriter for Focus on the Family. https://www.themotivationaleditor.com/ Resources: If you're ready to take a step of faith and finally finish your book, we have a few ways we can help you. 1. Free Writing Week Challenge: Create a Writing Habit in 15-Minutes a Day Even if you feel overwhelmed or stuck in procrastination, sitting down to write for just 15 minutes a day is the best way to finally reach your writing goa
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Clinging
04/06/2025 Duration: 23minNew 90-day sprint to finish your book starts September 10, 2026. Details at: https://www.trainingauthors.com/sprintClinging John 20:11-23 Luke 8:2 Jesus' words to Mary, "Do not cling to me," were not a rebuke; rather, they were a comfort that He would be around for a little while longer. Mary's response to Jesus offers us an opportunity to consider whether we really love Jesus. Are His death and resurrection just historical facts to us? Or, like Mary, do we love Him enough to cling to Him and then fulfill the tasks He has given us? Isn't it beautiful that the very first person to whom Jesus chooses to appear is not Pilate, not the chief priest, nor Peter or one of the other men, but to a weeping woman with a shady past? And isn't it exquisite that His first words are not a proclamation of power but a simple, pastoral, and playful question: 'Why are you crying?' Mary Magdalene has been referred to as the first apostle to the apostles. Imagine yourself in that room. How do you feel as Jesus appears? He breaks
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Called
07/05/2025 Duration: 29minNew 90-day sprint to finish your book starts September 10, 2026. Details at: https://www.trainingauthors.com/sprintCalled When did you first feel the nudge to write? Since then, have you ever asked yourself these questions… Am I really called to write? Did I hear God wrong? There are so many other gifted writers out there already. Why should I even bother? God does not limit His message to a select few. We each offer something unique because we are created uniquely in His image. Four Things that confirm our calling to write: 1.) We have a story to share with others. "Come and listen, all you who fear God, and I will tell you what he did for me." Psalms 66:16 NLT 2.) The words we write are a light that shines for Christ. "In the same way, let your good deeds shine out for all to see, so that everyone will praise your heavenly Father." Matthew 5:16 NLT 3.) The words we write can outlive us and impact those who come behind us. "Let this be recorded for future generations, so that a people not
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Expert Edition - Five Clear Indicators it's Time to Quit and Start Fresh
16/04/2025 Duration: 26minNew 90-day sprint to finish your book starts September 10, 2026. Details at: https://www.trainingauthors.com/sprintExpert Edition - Five Clear Indicators it's Time to Quit and Start Fresh Knowing when it's time to quit a venture can be tough to determine. In this episode I'll share how to know when it's time to say goodbye to a season via 5 clear indicators. If you're contemplating a pivotal shift or quitting something to start something new, this episode is for you. My freebie is the Next Steps Chapter & Journaling Guide Paid offer: My book, Empty Nest Awakening; Weaving the Threads of Your Passions into Purpose About the Author Ruthie Gray is a wife, Gigi, and author, and hosts retreats for empty nest entrepreneurs to determine their next steps in business. Her hobbies include Florida beach walks, RV-ing with hubby, and singing '70's tunes in the pool. Ruthie hosts her own podcast, is the author of Empty Nest Awakening: Weaving the Threads of Your Passions into Purpose, and contributor for the compilat
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Forever Friends
02/04/2025 Duration: 36minNew 90-day sprint to finish your book starts September 10, 2026. Details at: https://www.trainingauthors.com/sprintForever Friends A forever friend is someone who is a close and important part of your life, and with whom you share a deep connection. Characteristics of a forever friend: - Unconditional acceptance: They accept you for who you are, and don't judge you - Support: They help you through difficult times, and encourage you to love yourself & others. - Communication: You share your thoughts and feelings with each other - Conflict resolution: You work together to resolve conflicts and talk about sensitive topics. Isaiah 41:8-10 V. 8 referenced in James 2:23 John 15:13-16 Implications of this for us as Kingdom Writers David & Jonathan's Forever Friendship 1 Samuel 18:1, 3-4 2 Samuel 1:25-26 The Robe Jonathan gave David his robe to symbolize that he was giving David the right to succeed him to the throne. The Sword Jonathan gave David his sword to symbolize that he was entrusting David w
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Expert Edition - Harness the Power of Prewriting and Brainstorming
19/03/2025 Duration: 37minNew 90-day sprint to finish your book starts September 10, 2026. Details at: https://www.trainingauthors.com/sprintExpert Edition - Harness the Power of Prewriting and Brainstorming Ever stare at a blank page, wondering where to start? You're not alone! Before the words start flowing, the real magic happens in the pre-writing and brainstorming phase. In this episode, we're diving into powerful strategies to spark creativity, organize your thoughts, and build a strong foundation for your writing—without the overwhelm. I'll walk you through practical techniques like journaling, free-writing, mind mapping, and the "book sketch" method to help you move from scattered ideas to a clear, inspired vision. Whether you're writing a book, blog, or devotional, these tools will bring clarity, confidence, and consistency to your writing process. stephanie@butterfly-beginnings.com : Email me with the subject "transformation tale" to receive your copy of the transformation tale with a pre-filled example. https://www.instagra
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Overcoming Impossible
05/03/2025 Duration: 32minNew 90-day sprint to finish your book starts September 10, 2026. Details at: https://www.trainingauthors.com/sprintOvercoming Impossible "I slipped out during the night, taking only a few others with me. I had not told anyone about the plans God had put in my heart for Jerusalem. We took no pack animals with us except the donkey I was riding. After dark I went out through the Valley Gate, past the Jackal's Well, and over to the Dung Gate to inspect the broken walls and burned gates. Then I went to the Fountain Gate and to the King's Pool, but my donkey couldn't get through the rubble." Nehemiah 2:12-14 -In chapter 2, we read of 43 different groups who took responsibility for a section of the wall. It starts and finishes at the Sheep gate. -2 1/2 miles of wall which translates to 13,200 feet Expect Opposition "Sanballat was very angry when he learned that we were rebuilding the wall. He flew into a rage and mocked the Jews, saying in front of his friends and the Samarian army officers, "What does this
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Expert Edition - Writing a Faith-Based Memoir
26/02/2025 Duration: 27minNew 90-day sprint to finish your book starts September 10, 2026. Details at: https://www.trainingauthors.com/sprintExpert Edition - Writing a Faith-Based Memoir Having just completed my writer's memoir, I have been amazed at how the process strengthened my faith and thankfulness to God for what He has done in my writing life. I would love to engage with writers who would like to write this kind of memoir, and/or those who have a similar story to share. As a small thank you for listening today I'd like to offer you a Free download of my devotional book, Spur of the Moment. Please use coupon code - QGKBB I am also offering a 20% discount on my 5-week Writing Devotionals of Distinction Course. Please email me at vinemarc@telus.net for more details. About the Author Marcia Laycock currently has 16 books available on Amazon, including contemporary adult novels, fantasy novels for middle grade readers, devotional books, a book of Christmas stories, a children's picture book, and most recently, Pond'rings, a writer
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Useful
05/02/2025 Duration: 24minNew 90-day sprint to finish your book starts September 10, 2026. Details at: https://www.trainingauthors.com/sprintUseful Luke 1:5-17 Out of all the thousands of Levites serving in the Temple in the First Century, Zechariah is one of the only ones we know by name. God knew where to find Zechariah. God does not require that we have a big, flashy, well-known life to be significant to Him. All that matters is what He sees, what He thinks, and how He is pleased with our lives. This is not a flashy, outgoing couple. They are dutifully behind the scenes in their lives. Zechariah and Elizabeth were just a tiny, almost insignificant part of a community of thousands of Levitical priests, grouped into 24 teams that took their turns on duty at the Temple of God. Zechariah was one of 24,000 priests who served 2 weeks each year by rotation. An an aged man, it was a supreme honor given once in a lifetime to serve at the altar of incense. The incense was offered daily before the morning sacrifice at about 9am, and after th
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Start Fresh: 3 Ways to Make Time for Writing in a Busy Season
15/01/2025 Duration: 16minNew 90-day sprint to finish your book starts September 10, 2026. Details at: https://www.trainingauthors.com/sprintFeeling overwhelmed by life's demands and wondering when you'll ever find time to write? In this episode, I share three practical strategies to help you carve out consistent writing time—no matter how busy your season feels. You'll learn how to shift your mindset, block small chunks of time like non-negotiable appointments, and create accountability to stay on track. Your words matter, and God can multiply even the smallest moments when you take a step of faith. Whether you're starting fresh or picking up where you left off, this episode will equip you to make real progress on your book this year. Plus, I'll share how you can join our free Writing Week challenge for the accountability and encouragement you need to keep going. Listen in, take that first step, and trust God with the journey. Your book has a purpose—and it's time to begin. Don't forget to join us for the next 90-day sprint to finish