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Everyone has a unique story of how the Lord has touched their hearts and shaped their journeys. The ”Women Behind the Words” podcast highlights women who have bravely navigated life’s challenges, harnessing the strength and courage to answer God’s calling. Listen to inspiring accounts of overcoming fears and achieving more than they ever imagined possible. These personal narratives will inspire, uplift, and offer hope, changing the course of history, which will affect the outcome of eternity, one heart at a time.
Episodes
2 days ago
2 days ago
Date: March 14, 2025
Podcast Show Notes: Interview with Melissa Heiland
Episode Highlights:
In this heartfelt episode of The Women Behind the Words, Debbie Dufek welcomes Melissa Heiland to discuss the profound role of grandparents and how they can impact their grandchildren’s lives with love, prayer, and wisdom. Melissa shares valuable insights on navigating the joys and challenges of grandparenting while maintaining integrity, respect, and a deep sense of faith.
Melissa emphasizes the importance of honoring parental authority and encouraging grandparents to never undermine their grandchildren's parents or contradict established rules—especially when it comes to sensitive areas like technology use. Respecting these boundaries not only builds trust but also sets a godly example of integrity and honor.
The conversation also explores the delicate balance of sharing faith with grandchildren. Melissa encourages grandparents to naturally weave conversations about Jesus into everyday moments unless explicitly asked not to. The goal is to offer encouragement and hope without pressure, allowing faith to be a gentle and uplifting presence.
Being present—both emotionally and physically—is another key aspect of grandparenting. Melissa encourages clearing schedules when grandchildren visit, being intentional in conversations, and speaking life and purpose into their hearts. She reminds grandparents that their presence is a gift, and their words can shape a legacy of faith and love.
Through these intentional practices, grandparents can create a safe, welcoming place for both their grandchildren and their parents. It’s about building a legacy rooted in faith, integrity, and unconditional love—making an eternal impact for generations to come.
About Melissa Heiland:
Melissa Heiland is a wife, mother of six, and grandmother of thirteen. With degrees from Wake Forest University and the University of Central Missouri, her specialties include education and curriculum instruction. Melissa served as a missionary with the International Mission Board and has led mission teams since 2000. She is the Founder and President of Beautiful Feet International, a mission organization that establishes pregnancy centers around the world. Beautiful Feet has over 151 pregnancy ministries in 36 countries.
Melissa is also an author, speaker, and missionary. Her written works include a training manual and curriculum for pregnancy centers, devotionals for new and pregnant mothers, and resources for mission teams. Melissa is the recipient of the 2014 EvanTell Matthew 4:19 award and the 2022 Heartbeat International Servant Leader award. Her passion is equipping others to share the Gospel and advocate for life.
Book Spotlights:
A Mother’s Journey: A Devotional for Pregnancy
This 40-week devotional offers comfort and spiritual guidance to expectant mothers. Each chapter includes scripture, a journal prompt, and details about the baby’s development. It encourages women to connect with their children, themselves, and God—offering hope and reminding them that they are not alone in their journey.
A Mother’s Comfort: A Devotional for Baby’s First Year
This 52-week devotional is designed to encourage new mothers as they bond with their babies. Each devotion includes scripture, reflections, and journaling prompts, helping mothers draw closer to God while navigating the joys and challenges of the first year. It serves as a comforting reminder that just as they comfort their child, God is present to comfort and guide them.
Connect with Melissa Heiland:
Website: Beautiful Feet International
Email: bfidiroperations@gmail.com
Facebook: Beautiful Feet International
Instagram: @beautifulfeetintl
Melissa’s life and ministry are a testament to the beauty of living intentionally for Christ, building legacies of love and faith that extend across generations and around the world.
Friday Mar 07, 2025
Friday Mar 07, 2025
Date: March 7, 2025
Podcast Show Notes: Interview with Dawn Ward
Episode Highlights:
Welcome to The Women Behind the Words! In today’s powerful episode, we are honored to welcome Dawn Ward, a woman whose journey through pain, faith, and healing has inspired thousands. Dawn grew up in an alcoholic home, where her father was a functional alcoholic. As a child, she believed that keeping the peace meant striving for perfection, a mindset she carried into her marriage and parenting.
Life, however, took unexpected turns. One of Dawn's sons, after getting involved with the wrong crowd, became addicted to drugs. Wanting freedom, he voluntarily entered a rehabilitation program, found healing, and later helped others do the same. Her older son, following a significant surgery, developed an addiction to painkillers. These heartbreaking experiences led Dawn to a deeper relationship with Jesus, where she found peace, wisdom, and the grace to surrender control.
At God’s prompting, Dawn wrote her book, From Guilt to Grace: Hope and Healing for Christian Moms of Addicted Children, released in September 2024. She also founded an online support group for mothers of addicted children—a community that has grown to over 4,000 women seeking hope and encouragement. As the founder of Faith to Flourish, Dawn now speaks at conferences and retreats, reminding women that Jesus is faithful, even in the darkest moments.
Through it all, Dawn has come to embrace this truth: "Transform your painful places and persistent plateaus into purpose-filled spaces." She continues to walk alongside women facing similar struggles, helping them move from guilt to grace while discovering the healing power of God’s presence.
As Hebrews 4:12 (TPT) reminds us: "So now we come freely and boldly to where love is enthroned, to receive mercy’s kiss and discover the grace we urgently need to strengthen us in our time of weakness."
About Dawn Ward:
Dawn Ward is an author, speaker, Bible teacher, and certified biblical life coach. She is the founder of The Faith to Flourish, a ministry dedicated to supporting women with addicted loved ones and equipping all women of faith to live transformed lives through biblical teachings, mentoring, and resources. She is married to Steve and is the mother of three adult children. Her book, From Guilt to Grace: Hope and Healing for Christian Moms of Addicted Children, published in September 2024, is now available.
Book Spotlight: From Guilt to Grace: Hope and Healing for Christian Moms of Addicted Children
Are you a mother trying to cope with the painful reality of your adult child's addiction or self-destructive behaviors? Do you feel overwhelmed with fear, regret, and exhaustion from trying to save them?
You are not alone. Dawn Ward understands this journey firsthand. After years of striving, guilt, and heartbreak, she surrendered her will to God and found the peace and freedom of His redeeming grace.
From Guilt to Grace is a guide for mothers navigating the anguish of their child’s addiction. Through biblical truths and personal insights, you’ll uncover the lies keeping you trapped in guilt and shame while experiencing the transformative power of God’s grace to set you and your loved ones free.
Endorsement:
"From Guilt to Grace offers the kind of practical and spiritual guidance I wish I’d had on my painful journey." — Dena Yohe, Co-founder of Hope for Hurting Parents
Connect with Dawn Ward:
Website: www.thefaithtoflourish.com
Facebook: Faith to Flourish
Instagram: @thefaithtoflourishblog
YouTube: The Faith to Flourish with Dawn Ward
LinkedIn: Dawn Ward
Dawn’s journey is a beautiful testament to the power of surrender, trust, and God’s unwavering love. If you are walking through a difficult season, be encouraged—He is with you.
Friday Feb 28, 2025
Friday Feb 28, 2025
Date: February 28, 2025
Podcast Show Notes: Interview with Clarice James
Episode Highlights:
Welcome to The Women Behind the Words! In this heartfelt episode, I sit down with my friend Clarice James, a talented fiction novelist with a passion for storytelling that has spanned over 18 years. Even as a child, Clarice loved weaving narratives, and that passion has only deepened with time. She writes what she knows, infusing her own life experiences into her characters—so much so that friends have occasionally recognized themselves in her books!
One of her most personal novels, Party of One, was inspired by her journey through grief and widowhood. After losing her first husband, Clarice faced the often-overlooked challenge of dining alone. One evening, while attempting to eat at a restaurant by herself, she was met with unexpected insensitivity from the waitstaff. That moment opened her eyes to the loneliness many people experience. Instead of retreating, she turned that moment into an opportunity, starting a supper club where singles and widows could gather for community and conversation. If she saw someone sitting alone, she invited them to join her, transforming an isolating experience into a beautiful sense of belonging.
Clarice has since authored five novels, is currently working on her sixth, and declares that writing is simply what she was made to do. In this episode, we discuss the importance of recognizing those who may feel unseen and taking simple steps to bring people together. Whether you're a writer, a widow, or someone seeking to foster deeper connections in your own life, Clarice’s journey is sure to inspire you.
About Clarice James:
Clarice G. James is an award-winning author known for her smart, fun, and relatable contemporary women’s fiction. Her stories are infused with humor, faith, romance, and unexpected twists that keep readers engaged.
Her first published novel, Doubleheader, was one of the winners of the 2014 Jerry Jenkins Operation First Novel Contest. She has since published Party of One, Manhattan Grace, The Girl He Knew, and The Least of These, with her latest work-in-progress, Out of Hunger, currently underway.
In addition to fiction, Clarice is the author of Say Grace: A Scriptural Field Guide to Weight Loss and is currently working on a second non-fiction project, Say Grace: Grieving the Death of a Spouse.
When her first husband, Terry, passed away in 1998, Clarice turned to writing as a means of healing. In 2006, she remarried, finding love again with David—whom she describes as "a keeper, and all grown up when I got him." Sadly, she was widowed again in 2021, just shy of fifteen years of marriage.
When she’s not writing, Clarice enjoys reading, leading women’s Bible studies, and taking on home decorating projects. She resides in southern New Hampshire, surrounded by close family and friends.
Book Highlight: Party of One
Widow Annie McGee is ready to move forward, but as she steps into a new chapter, she encounters the unexpected challenge of loneliness. Determined to break through her grief, she finds Party of One—a communal table for single diners at a local restaurant. Initially, Annie has no intention of getting deeply involved with the lives of those who join her. She’s content to observe from a safe distance.
But as the weeks go by, she realizes that the only thing more surprising than the quirks of her eclectic tablemates is how much she starts to need their company. As friendships blossom and truths unfold, Annie learns that God has more in store for her than she ever imagined.
Party of One is a heartwarming story of second chances, unexpected friendships, and the beauty of community.
Other Books by Clarice James:
- The Least of These (Elk Lake Publishing, 2021)
- The Girl He Knew (Elk Lake Publishing, 2019)
- Manhattan Grace (Elk Lake Publishing, 2018)
- Doubleheader (Elk Lake Publishing, 2nd Ed. 2019)
- Party of One (Elk Lake Publishing, 2017)
Awards & Recognitions:
- Selah Award Semi-Finalist (2018) – Manhattan Grace
- Second Place Winner, Jerry Jenkins Operation First Novel Contest (2014) – Doubleheader
- Semi-Finalist & Finalist, Jerry Jenkins Operation First Novel Contest (2012 & 2013) – Party of One
Connect with Clarice James
📍 Website: www.claricegjames.com
📧 Email: clarice@claricegjames.com
📖 Say Grace: A Scriptural Field Guide to Weight Loss – Elk Lake Publishing, Inc. (2022)
Social Media:
📘 Facebook: Clarice G. James, Author
🐦 Twitter: @ClariceJames
📚 Bookbub: Clarice G. James
📖 Goodreads: Clarice G. James
Clarice’s journey is a testament to the power of faith, community, and the courage to embrace new seasons of life.
Friday Feb 21, 2025
Friday Feb 21, 2025
Date: February 21, 2025
Podcast Show Notes: Interview with Sandra Flach
Episode Highlights:
Welcome to The Women Behind the Words! In this inspiring episode, I sit down with my dear friend Sandra Flach as she shares the remarkable journey of stepping into a new season. For over a decade, Sandra has poured her heart into Justice for Orphans, an organization she co-founded to raise awareness in churches and provide support to foster and adoptive families. What began as a small ministry has flourished into a life-changing organization serving over 11,000 children and families.
Despite the incredible impact of Justice for Orphans, Sandra found herself in a position that, while vital, wasn’t her true calling. As the Executive Director, her responsibilities revolved around management, administration, and daily operations—tasks that pulled her away from her deepest passion: ministering directly to families, writing, and speaking.
Throughout this season, Sandra persistently sought the Lord, praying for the right person to step into leadership so she could fully embrace the calling God placed on her heart. Unbeknownst to her, Kathi, her trusted assistant director, had also been hearing from God—sensing a call to step into the very role Sandra had been praying to fill.
During a pivotal meeting, Sandra once again expressed her desire for a leader to take over Justice for Orphans. That’s when Kathi revealed what God had placed on her heart. In January of this year, the transition began, and Sandra stepped into a new chapter—fully dedicating herself to writing, speaking, and ministering to foster and adoptive parents through her online community.
Sandra’s story is a beautiful reminder of God’s perfect timing and faithfulness. She encourages anyone sensing a shift in their calling to trust the process, knowing that when God opens a door, He also equips us for what’s ahead. Proverbs 3:5-6 (TPT) reminds us: "Trust in the Lord completely and do not rely on your own opinions. With all your heart, rely on him to guide you, and he will lead you in every decision you make."
If you’re feeling called to step into a new season, this episode will encourage and inspire you to trust God, embrace change, and walk confidently in His plan.
About Sandra Flach:
Sandra Flach is a mother of eight, including five adopted children, two of whom have been diagnosed with Fetal Alcohol Syndrome (FAS). She is a passionate advocate for foster and adoptive families, equipping parents with resources and encouragement through her weekly Adoption & Foster Care Journey Podcast and her blog at SandraFlach.com. As a certified facilitator of the FASCETS Neurobehavioral Model, Sandra leads FASD workshops and co-leads the Hope for the FASD Journey online support community. She is also the co-founder of Justice for Orphans and the author of Orphans No More—A Journey Back to the Father. Sandra and her husband, Wayne, have been married for 38 years. They reside in upstate New York, where they enjoy spending time in the Adirondack Mountains.
Book Highlight: Orphans No More—A Journey Back to the Father
A story of incredible perseverance, unwavering faith, and the power of adoption—both earthly and spiritual. This deeply personal book is part adoption memoir, part spiritual reflection on what it means to be a child of God. Whether you've been touched by adoption or want to better understand the orphan crisis, Orphans No More will inspire you to embrace your full identity in Christ and walk in the freedom of being fully loved by the Father.
Connect with Sandra Flach:
Email: sandraflach@justicefororphansny.org
Website: www.justicefororphansny.org
Phone: +1 (518) 779-2279
Mailing Address: PO Box 418, Ravena, NY 12143
Support the Mission: Donate to Justice for Orphans
Sandra’s journey is a powerful testimony of trusting God’s timing, releasing control, and stepping into His greater purpose. Tune in now for an episode filled with wisdom, encouragement, and the reminder that when God calls, He equips.
Friday Feb 14, 2025
Friday Feb 14, 2025
Date: February 14, 2025
Podcast Show Notes: Interview with Kathy Hendley
Story Highlight:
In this deeply inspiring episode of The Women Behind the Words, Debbie sits down with Kathy Hendley to discuss a life-changing moment that reshaped Kathy’s approach to work and faith. Kathy shares how attending Debbie’s Business Meeting with God workshop at the AWSA Conference became a defining point in her journey.
At the time, Kathy was in the midst of an exhausting job search, sending out résumé after résumé without clear direction. Feeling frustrated and uncertain, she attended the conference in Kentucky, where she met Debbie for the first time. During the workshop, Kathy had an unexpected encounter with God—one that brought her to tears. In the stillness of the session, she heard a gentle whisper: “Would you work for Me?” The moment was so profound that she shared her experience with the group, realizing that God was inviting her into something much bigger than she had imagined.
That question changed everything. From that day forward, Kathy surrendered her career into God’s hands, inviting Him to be the CEO of her work and future. What followed was a season of trust, redirection, and an entirely new way of doing business—with God at the helm. Her testimony serves as a reminder that no matter what season of life we are in, whether we are business owners, homeschooling mothers, or retirees seeking purpose, God is actively calling us to trust Him with our work.
This episode is filled with encouragement, practical wisdom, and the beautiful reminder that when we invite Jesus into our work, surrender our plans, and trust His lead, transformation happens.
About Our Guest (Bio):
Dr. Kathy Hendley is a teacher, author, and speaker dedicated to encouraging others to overcome obstacles, pursue their goals, and fully step into their calling. She is an active member of Word Weavers International and AWSA. Her debut novel, Murder in the Masterpiece: A Teacher’s Deadly Lesson, is set to be published in mid-January.
Beyond her writing, Kathy hosts the monthly Write on Purpose virtual writing retreat, designed to equip and inspire Christian writers. She is also organizing a writing contest, with winning entries to be published in an upcoming anthology. When she’s not writing or teaching, Kathy serves on her church’s worship and prayer teams. A self-proclaimed “Bible study junkie,” she often travels the tri-state area in search of impactful women’s Bible studies.
Book Highlight:
Murder in the Masterpiece: A Teacher’s Deadly Lesson
Faye Unger is a quiet, reserved math teacher at Arlington Community School, but outside the classroom, she finds solace in painting—a private escape that helps her process life’s challenges. However, when her latest artwork eerily mirrors the details of a decades-old unsolved murder, Faye’s passion for art takes a chilling turn.
At the same time, veteran teacher Don Ambrose is still haunted by the unsolved murder of his wife. His search for answers has consumed him for years—until he stumbles upon Faye’s paintings. The details are too accurate to be a coincidence. As they unravel the mystery together, shocking connections emerge between Faye’s subconscious visions and Don’s pursuit of justice.
But some want the past to stay buried, and they will stop at nothing to ensure the truth never comes to light. Every clue draws Faye and Don deeper into a web of secrets, danger, and deception. Will they find the answers they seek before it’s too late?
For fans of The Silent Patient and Ashton Corners Book Club Mysteries, Murder in the Masterpiece delivers an unforgettable blend of suspense, intrigue, and faith-driven storytelling.
Also by Kathy Hendley:
Gratitude Journal: Daily Practice of Giving Thanks
Imagine waking up each day feeling more fulfilled, positive, and connected to the blessings around you. Gratitude Journal is a beautifully designed guide to help you cultivate a daily habit of thankfulness.
With uplifting quotes, inspiring affirmations, and space to reflect, this journal helps you shift your focus from what’s missing to what’s already present in your life. As you fill its pages, you’ll develop resilience, mindfulness, and a deeper appreciation for everyday moments.
Start your gratitude journey today and unlock a more joyful, content, and peaceful version of yourself—one thankful thought at a time.
Connect with Kathy:
Email: info@kathyhendley.com
Website: www.kathyhendley.com
Facebook: www.patreon.com/KathyHendley
Instagram: @kathhendley9
Thursday Feb 06, 2025
Thursday Feb 06, 2025
Date: February 6, 2025
Podcast Show Notes: Solo Episode with Debbie Dufek
Welcome to The Women Behind the Words! In today’s episode, Debbie explores the transformative practice of holding a weekly ministry or business meeting with God. By intentionally setting aside time to hear His voice, journaling your thoughts, and seeking His wisdom, you’ll gain clarity and direction for your work and calling. This episode is packed with practical steps to help you cultivate a heart that listens and follows God’s leading in every decision.
Episode Highlights:
Position Yourself for God’s Guidance
- Expectation – Come with the belief that God will speak.
- Listening Heart – Be open and ready to receive His voice.
- Privilege and Need – Recognize the importance of aligning with His plans.
- Desire for His Agenda – Surrender your plans in exchange for His perfect will.
- Battle-Ready Mindset – Understand that spiritual opposition may arise as you step in His direction.
Preparing for Your Meeting with God
- Commitment – Schedule this time as a non-negotiable weekly routine.
- Heart Cleansing – Begin with prayer and journaling to prepare your spirit.
- Gratitude – Reflect on and thank God for His faithfulness.
- Heart Pour (Brain Dump) – Write down everything on your mind, including:
- Writing, speaking, ministry, and business-related thoughts
- Short-term and long-term goals (3 months, 6 months, 12 months, 5 years)
- Current commitments and deadlines
- Financial needs and timelines
- Are any other God-given dreams stirring in your heart
Two-Way Journaling: Listening for His Voice
- Prayer – Ask for confirming Scriptures and clear direction.
- Journaling – Record your prayers, thoughts, and any insights received.
- Listening – Spend time in quiet reflection, ensuring what you hear aligns with God’s Word.
Action Steps
- Daily Review – Revisit your notes and reflect on God’s revelations.
- Progress Tracking – Highlight completed tasks and celebrate each step forward.
- Gratitude – End your meeting with thanksgiving for His direction and provision.
Banner Scripture
"Trust in the Lord completely, and do not rely on your own opinions. With all your heart, rely on Him to guide you, and He will lead you in every decision you make." — Proverbs 3:5 (TPT)
About Debbie Dufek:
Debbie Dufek is a passionate author, speaker, and ministry leader with a heart for inspiring others to live with intention for Jesus. She is the founder and host of The Women Behind the Words podcast, where she encourages Christian writers, speakers, and ministry leaders to step boldly into their callings.
Debbie has been leading women’s ministry events and conferences for over 35 years, including The Mom’s Luncheon, an annual gathering that continues to bless over 150 women each year. She also mentors aspiring writers and speakers, helping them embrace their God-given voice and purpose.
Currently, Debbie is writing her next book, set to be released in September 2025, on the practice of holding a Weekly Business Meeting with God, offering a step-by-step guide to hearing His voice amid daily responsibilities.
When she’s not writing or speaking, Debbie enjoys quiet mornings with coffee, long walks, and soaking in the beauty of God’s creation. She believes that every story matters and that sharing our faith journeys can change the course of history—one heart at a time.
Book Spotlight: Walking in Divine Alignment—Embracing God’s Plan in Everyday Life
Debbie’s upcoming book, Walking in Divine Alignment, is a heartfelt and practical guide for those longing to experience clarity, purpose, and peace in their daily walk with Christ. Through personal stories, biblical wisdom, and practical tools, Debbie shares how to:
- Align your daily life with God’s greater plan
- Develop spiritual habits that cultivate a deeper relationship with Him
- Recognize divine opportunities and step into them with confidence
- Trust God’s timing, even when life feels uncertain
This book will be a companion for anyone seeking to live intentionally, embracing the life God has designed uniquely for them. Coming Fall 2025!
Closing Thought:
As you walk through this week, remember that God is actively working in your life. He is guiding your steps, leading your decisions, and surrounding you with His love. Embrace the with-God life, trusting that His plans for you are greater than anything you could imagine.
Scripture of Encouragement:
"And all of this is a gift from God, who brought us back to Himself through Christ. And God has given us this task of reconciling people to Him." — 2 Corinthians 5:18 (NLT)
Connect with Debbie:
- Subscribe to The Women Behind the Words podcast on Apple, Spotify, Podbean, and other platforms.
- Follow Debbie on Facebook and Instagram for encouragement on writing, ministry, and faith-driven business.
- Visit www.debbiedufek.com for more resources.
- Email Debbie at deb@debbiedufek.com—she loves hearing how God is working in your life!
Get Exclusive Access to the AWSA Conference Handout!
Want to dive deeper into the wisdom and encouragement shared at the AWSA Conference? By subscribing to Debbie’s newsletter, you’ll gain access to the AWSA Conference Handout—a valuable resource packed with insights, inspiration, and practical tools to help you step boldly into your calling.
This handout is only available to newsletter subscribers, so don’t miss out! Sign up today and receive content that will encourage and equip you in your journey of faith, writing, and ministry.
📩 Subscribe now to get your copy! → [Signup Link]
Tuesday Jan 28, 2025
Tuesday Jan 28, 2025
Podcast Show Notes: Interview with Lizzy Adams
Date: January 28, 2025
Welcome to The Women Behind the Words! I’m thrilled to welcome my dear friend of nearly 30 years, Lizzy Adams, to the podcast. Lizzy is a woman whose life radiates faith, wisdom, and a deep love for her family. Her journey as a homeschooling mother of seven, her passion for classical Christian education, and her heart for mentoring younger women make this conversation truly special.
About Our Guest (Bio):
Lizzy Adams has been married to her husband, Bill, for 44 years, and together, they have been blessed with seven children, five beloved in-law children, and 17 grandchildren who bring them endless joy. Bill, a former Army officer, now works with Bridges for Peace, serves as a chaplain at Christian Care Ministry, and teaches at Grand Canyon University. Their love for Israel has led them to lead multiple tours to the Holy Land, deepening their faith and connection to its people.
For 36 years, Lizzy homeschooled their children, later transitioning into teaching in a classical Christian school setting, where she remains today. She currently teaches junior high literature and writing at Pietas Classical Christian, a hybrid classical Christian program in Florida. Over the years, Lizzy has also led Bible studies, taught at retreats and conferences, and mentored countless women in their walk with Jesus.
Episode Highlights:
Discovering Classical Christian Education
Lizzy shares how her family transitioned from traditional homeschooling to classical Christian education—a method that deeply resonated with their values. She explains how this faith-filled approach nurtures not only the mind but also the heart, emphasizing truth, beauty, and goodness.
The Joy of Teaching and Mentoring
With decades of experience teaching both in the home and cooperative settings, Lizzy beautifully describes classical education as a mentor-student relationship—one that "cultivates wonder in our children, learning from a place of rest."
Encouragement for Homeschooling Mothers
For mothers considering classical Christian education, Lizzy offers heartfelt encouragement: begin with prayer. She highlights the benefits of hybrid classical Christian schools, like the one her daughter-in-law started—Creo Classical Academy in Ballston Spa, NY—where students receive structured learning while still benefiting from home education.
Cultivating a Quiet Heart
Lizzy opens up about how the Lord has transformed her heart in this season of life. She shares the beauty of joy, rest, and trust in God's sovereignty, reminding us that no circumstance is beyond His care. Her advice? "Rest your head on the pillow of God’s sovereignty"—knowing that He is never surprised by our circumstances.
Finding Joy in Every Season
Now in a new stage of life, Lizzy reflects on the unique sweetness of her empty nest. While raising children was a beautiful season, she now treasures the quiet companionship with her husband, seeing this time as a gift rather than a loss.
A Closing Word on Beauty and Hope
Lizzy shares one of her favorite Tolkien quotes, a beautiful reminder of the hope we have even in difficult times:
"The world is full of peril and in it there are many dark places, but still there is much that is fair; and in all lands, love mingled with grief grows perhaps the greater."
Key Takeaways for Listeners
- Explore classical Christian education as a way to nurture your children’s hearts and minds.
- Begin every decision with prayer, seeking God’s guidance in homeschooling or any educational choices.
- Cultivate a quiet heart by learning to trust God’s sovereignty in all things.
- Find joy in each season, knowing that God’s love is steadfast, and His plans are perfect.
Lizzy’s wisdom, deep faith, and warm presence will encourage and inspire you to seek Jesus more fully, whether you're navigating homeschooling, transitioning into a new season of life, or simply longing for a heart at rest in God’s peace.
Connect with Lizzy:
While Lizzy does not have social media, she welcomes emails from listeners who want to learn more about classical Christian education or share their thoughts on this episode. You can reach her at hisunfailinglove@gmail.com, and I can assure you—if you send her a message, she will graciously respond!
Thank you for tuning in to this heartfelt conversation. If this episode encouraged you, please share it with a friend who could use some inspiration today!
Tuesday Jan 21, 2025
Tuesday Jan 21, 2025
Podcast Show Notes: The Power of Storytelling and Healing Through Fiction with Debra Butterfield
Date: January 21, 2021
Welcome to The Women Behind the Words! I’m so thrilled to have you join us today for a powerful and deeply meaningful conversation with Debra Butterfield. Debra is an incredible writer, editor, and coach who has not only built a career as an author but has also discovered the healing power of storytelling. If you've ever wondered how fiction can transform lives—including your own—this is the episode for you!
About Our Guest (Bio):
Debra Butterfield is a seasoned writer, editor, and writing coach who has been crafting stories since 2006. Before launching her freelance career, she worked as a copywriter for Focus on the Family. She is a Marine Corps veteran, widely traveled, and lived in Europe for four years—experiences that have shaped both her writing and worldview. A mother of three and grandmother of two, Debra has a deep passion for storytelling and using fiction as a tool for healing and ministry.
Episode Highlights:
In today’s episode, Debra shares how fiction writing has been a transformative tool in her own life, helping her navigate deep personal struggles and find healing through storytelling. Writing fiction wasn’t just about crafting characters and plots—it became a way for her to process past trauma, uncover hidden wounds, and allow God to lead her through the healing journey.
One of Debra’s most beloved characters, Sally Clark from The Inheritance Series, reflects many of her own life experiences. Sally, an orphan struggling with loneliness, mirrors Debra’s childhood feelings of separation when she was placed in a different classroom from her twin sister in kindergarten. Through Sally’s journey, Debra found herself confronting and healing from her past wounds.
Debra also opens up about how God used her writing to reveal areas in her heart that needed restoration—especially in overcoming past abusive relationships and struggles with trust. She describes her writing process as co-writing with the Holy Spirit, allowing God to direct her words, bring healing, and shape her books into something that ministers deeply to readers.
For aspiring writers, Debra has one simple yet powerful message: Just do it! Don’t overthink it—trust that God will guide you and bring the right words at the right time. Whether writing fiction or nonfiction, she encourages everyone to lean on the Holy Spirit and allow Him to work through the process.
Key Topics Covered:
- How Debra's personal experiences have shaped her characters and storytelling
- The role of conflict in fiction writing and how it mirrors real-life struggles
- Sally Clark’s journey in The Inheritance Series and its deep personal connection to Debra’s life
- The transformative power of writing fiction as a healing tool
- Co-writing with the Holy Spirit and allowing God to direct your creative process
- Encouragement for aspiring writers: Trust the process, take the plunge, and just start writing!
Book Highlight: The Inheritance Series
Will being stranded by a blizzard reawaken her numb heart?
When a blizzard traps Sally Clark in a small country church with her twin sister and three strangers, long-buried family secrets begin to surface. As four days pass in isolation, the church works its miracles—on Sally and those around her.
But the surprises don’t stop there. A haunting nightmare, the relentless storm, and a dying letter from Sally’s father all collide, forcing her to confront the past and embrace the future God has for her.
Discover the power of faith, forgiveness, and unexpected miracles in Book 2 of The Inheritance Series. Follow Sally as she uncovers her true inheritance and embarks on a journey of healing and redemption.
Links & Resources Mentioned:
- The Inheritance Series by Debra Butterfield
- Debra Butterfield’s website and books: debralbutterfield.com
- Writing Resources & Coaching: The Motivational Editor
- Unlock Your Writing Potential Coaching Program: Apply Here
Follow Debra Butterfield:
Related Interviews:
Debra’s powerful testimony has been featured in Carried by Grace with Cathy Krafve. Listen to these interviews for more on Debra’s journey and her first book:
Final Encouragement:
If you’ve ever felt called to write but don’t know where to start, Debra’s story is a reminder that writing isn’t just about crafting books—it’s about healing, growth, and allowing God to use your words for His glory. Whether you’re a writer, a reader, or someone in need of encouragement, this episode is for you.
Don’t forget to subscribe and share this episode with a friend who needs inspiration today. God has given you a story—are you ready to share it?