Women Behind the Words

Episode 62 - How to Hear God’s Voice in Your Ministry: The Power of a Weekly Business Meeting with God

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]

Episode 61 - A Peek into the Heart and Passions of Lizzy Adams

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!

Episode 60 - The Healing Power of Fiction: A Conversation with Debra Butterfield

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:

• Facebook
• LinkedIn
• Goodreads

 

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:

• Part 1: Mothers of Victims of Sexual Abuse
• Part 2: Carried by Grace

 

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?

Episode 59 - How to Step Boldly Into Your God-Given Calling with Amber Weigand-Buckley

Podcast Show Notes: Interview with Amber Weigand-Buckley
Date: January 16, 2025

 

Story Highlight:
Welcome to The Women Behind the Words! Today, I’m thrilled to bring you an inspiring conversation with the incredible Amber Weigand-Buckley. Amber is a woman who wears many hats with grace, humor, and a deep commitment to God’s calling in her life. As an author, award-winning editor, and creative director, she has dedicated her life to empowering women to discover their purpose and boldly step into their God-given calling.

In this episode, Amber opens up about her journey of faith, leadership, and creativity. She shares how she’s navigated challenges, including mental health struggles, and how God has used those experiences to shape her ministry and inspire others. If you’re seeking encouragement to embrace your unique calling, this conversation is for you!

 

About the Guest (Bio):
Amber Weigand-Buckley is the founding editor and art director of the multi-award-winning Leading Hearts magazine. She serves as the marketing and brand director for the Advanced Writers and Speakers Association (AWSA), the creative director for Bold Vision Books, and the owner of #barefacedcreativemedia. Amber is passionate about helping women find their wings and fulfill their God-calling.

A graduate of Evangel University and a Distinguished Communications Department Alumni, Amber resides in Springfield, Missouri, with her British husband, Philip, their three daughters—Saffron, Imogen, and Penelope—and a lively household of pets, including two Great Pyrenees pups, Stanley and Stuart.

 

Book Highlight:
#SisterhoodoftheShortYellowPencils: Mental Health Mayhem One Post-It at a Time
This upcoming book, releasing in March 2026 from Abundance Books, brings a humorous and authentic look at navigating mental health.

 

Leading Ladies: Discovering Your God-Given Strategy for Success
Co-authored by Amber Weigand-Buckley and Lisa Burris Burns, this empowering book features stories and strategies from 30 women who have boldly embraced their God-given callings. Featuring contributors like gospel music legend Babbie Mason, viral artist Katy Nichole, and comedian Kerri Pomarolli, Leading Ladies is packed with practical tools, inspiration, and encouragement for women seeking to align their leadership with God’s purpose.

Available wherever books are sold. Learn more at www.leadingladies.life.

 

Why You’ll Love This Episode:
Amber’s candid storytelling, faith-driven leadership insights, and practical advice will leave you inspired and ready to embrace your calling with boldness and creativity. Whether you’re pursuing a dream, stepping into ministry, or seeking direction, this episode is filled with encouragement to help you move forward.

 

Connect with Amber:
Website: www.barefacedcreativemedia.com
Facebook: Amber Weigand-Buckley
Instagram: @barefacedgirl

 

Closing Message:
Don’t miss this incredible conversation with Amber Weigand-Buckley. Her wisdom and passion for helping women step boldly into their God-given calling will inspire you to take your next step with faith and confidence. Share this episode with a friend who needs a boost of encouragement, and let’s walk this journey together.

Episode 58 - “How One Word from God Has the Power to Transform Your Year”

Date: January 3, 2025

Podcast Show Notes: Solo Episode with host Debbie Dufek

 

Welcome to The Women Behind the Words podcast! As we embrace the first few days of this new year, I’m thrilled to share a personal and transformative spiritual practice that has deeply impacted my life. For seven years, I’ve sought the Lord for a “word of the year,” and today, on the third day of 2025, I’ll take you through this meaningful journey, reflecting on how it has shaped my walk with Him and my purpose.

 

Episode Highlights:
The Power of One Word: Discover how receiving a word from the Lord can bring focus, clarity, and purpose to your year, aligning your steps with His plans.
Personal Stories: I’ll reflect on how each word has guided my life, from my first word TRUST, boldly confirmed on a highway billboard, to CREATIVE and PRUDENT, shaping my journey as an author, podcaster, and speaker.
Life Lessons: Learn how these words have served as spiritual anchors, guiding me through life’s challenges, balancing family life, achieving certifications, and becoming an award-winning author.
Why Seek a Word from God? Gain insight into how a single word can serve as a spiritual compass, helping you live intentionally with an eternal perspective.
Practical Steps to Find Your Word:

1. Spend time in prayer and Scripture, asking God to reveal your word.
2. Write down your words and reflect on them regularly.
3. Let it shape your decisions and priorities throughout the year.

 

Encouragement for 2025
As we step into the new year, I encourage you to ask God for a word to guide your path. Trust that He will use it to bring clarity, growth, and a deeper connection with Him. This simple yet powerful practice can help illuminate your journey and align your heart with His eternal purpose.

 

Scriptural Inspiration:
“Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.” – Psalm 119:105

 

About the Host:
Debbie Dufek is an author, conference and retreat speaker, inspirational storyteller, and host of the popular Women Behind the Words podcast. A certified writing and speaking coach, Deb inspires others to live deliberately for what matters most to Jesus. Her first book, Holy Interruptions: When God Taps You on the Shoulder, published by Bold Vision Books, was released in 2022.

Debbie is also the founder of The Mom’s Luncheon, an annual event cherished by 150+ women for 35 years. Her passion is encouraging others to embrace God’s plans for their lives and share their stories, knowing that our stories hold the power to change lives and hearts for eternity.

 

Book Spotlight:
Holy Interruptions: When God Taps You on the Shoulder

Your Story Matters.
We can change the course of history, one heart at a time, with our stories. God chooses and uses the unlikely to fulfill His plans. He proves it through the stories in His Word and continues to do so today.

Learn how to fully surrender your story to Him and be ready when He taps you on the shoulder. Through biblical insights and poignant personal experiences, this book equips and inspires readers to embrace their unique stories and let God use them for His glory.

For more details, visit www.debbiedufek.com.

 

Closing Message:
Let’s make 2025 a year of walking hand in hand with Jesus, allowing Him to illuminate our paths and shape our stories for His glory. Together, let’s embrace this invitation to seek Him more intentionally, living lives marked by purpose, clarity, and His unmistakable presence.

 

Connect with Me:
For more encouragement and resources, visit www.debbiedufek.com or email me at deb@debbiedufek.com. I return every email I receive. 

Epsiode 57 - Celebrating Renew: A Decade of Faith, Community, and New Beginnings with Rachel Britton

Date: December 19, 2024
Podcast Show Notes: Interview with Rachel Britton

 

Story Highlight:
Welcome to The Women Behind the Words! This week, Debbie is joined by returning guest Rachel Britton, an inspiring speaker, writer, and prayer advocate. In this heartfelt conversation, Rachel shares her journey as co-director of the Renew Retreat, a Christ-centered gathering for writers and speakers in the Northeast.

Rachel reflects on her calling to step into leadership during a season of profound transition, following the passing of her co-director and dear friend, Lucinda Secrest McDowell, in 2023. With vulnerability, Rachel describes how God provided clarity and guidance to continue the retreat’s mission, even amidst grief and uncertainty.

As Renew prepares to celebrate its 10th anniversary in 2026, Rachel discusses the importance of honoring the past while looking boldly to the future. She sheds light on Renew’s unique focus on Christ, community, craft, and celebration, which sets it apart from traditional writing conferences. This episode is a beautiful testament to God’s faithfulness and a reminder that when He calls us to new endeavors, He provides everything we need to succeed.

 

About the Guest (Bio):
Rachel Britton is a British-born writer, speaker, and prayer advocate with a passion for helping women become confident and comfortable in their conversations with God. Through her work, Rachel equips individuals with practical tools to develop consistent prayer lives and deepen their relationship with their Heavenly Father.

Rachel serves as the co-director of the Renew Retreat, a spiritual gathering for writers and speakers in the Northeast. She is also the author of several prayer-focused resources, including her upcoming book with Our Daily Bread Publishing. Rachel resides in New York City with her husband and enjoys traveling, writing, and supporting fellow creatives in their faith journeys.

 

Book Highlight:
Rachel’s upcoming book with Our Daily Bread Publishing (set for release in 2025) offers readers practical guidance for developing a consistent and natural prayer life. Packed with insights, stories, and encouragement, this resource is designed to help individuals overcome common prayer struggles and grow closer to God.

 

About the Renew Retreat:
The Renew Retreat is a Christ-centered spiritual retreat designed for writers and speakers to connect with God, develop their craft, and build meaningful relationships within a vibrant community. The retreat uniquely balances spiritual enrichment, creative growth, and fellowship opportunities.

 

Key Pillars of Renew:

• Christ: Keeping Jesus at the center of everything.
• Community: Building strong connections in a supportive and faith-filled environment.
• Craft: Honing writing and speaking skills with workshops and resources.
• Celebration: Honoring God’s work in our lives and the accomplishments of fellow attendees.

 

Connect with Rachel:
Website: Rachel Britton
Sign up for her weekly newsletter and gain access to practical prayer resources.

 

Contact for Renew:
Visit Renew Retreat Website for details about the 2025 retreat and plans for the 10th-anniversary celebration in 2026.

 

Closing:
This episode invites us to reflect on how God calls us to step into new seasons with faith and courage. Rachel’s story is a testament to His ability to equip and guide us as we build on the past and move toward His plans for the future. 

Episode 56 - Finding Calm in Life’s Storms with Jen Peters

Date: December 17, 2024

Podcast Show Notes: Interview with Jen Peters

 

Story Highlight: Welcome to The Women Behind the Words! In this heartfelt episode, we are joined by Jen Peters, a life coach for Christian women, ministry leader, and advocate for empowering women to step into their God-given purpose. Jen shares her journey of finding calm in the chaos and how God used a simple word, “Calm,” to transform her year. In 2023, she made it her mission to become the calmest person in the room, and little did she know, this was God’s way of preparing her for the challenges that 2024 would bring.

Jen’s insights on overcoming limiting beliefs, finding peace amidst life’s storms, and combating the lies that hold us back are both practical and powerful. She talks about how women often settle for less than what God has called them to, either due to distraction, discouragement, or a sense of unworthiness. With a relatable and compassionate voice, Jen encourages women to embrace the truth that they are created on purpose, for a purpose.

Her passion for helping women walk in empowerment and peace is evident in every story she shares. Whether it’s guiding women through fears, helping them set and achieve goals, or assisting them in reclaiming calm amidst chaos, Jen’s mission is clear: to help women become who God created them to be.

This episode is packed with wisdom, encouragement, and real-life strategies to help you move from chaos to calm. You’ll be inspired to let go of limiting beliefs, embrace God’s promises, and step boldly into your purpose. You won’t want to miss it!

 

About the Guest (Bio): Jen Peters is a general life coach for Christian women, a ministry leader, and a dedicated advocate for adoption and orphan care. She is the mom of four adult children, ages 33 to 24, and Nana to three amazing grandchildren. For over 20 years, Jen has been involved in ministry, leading teams within her church and serving communities both locally and internationally.

She and her husband previously founded a missions organization, leading short-term mission trips to Latvia for seven years. Jen also led a ministry in metro Atlanta for eight years, helping find forever families for Eastern European orphans who were considered unadoptable due to age or sibling group size.

As a life coach, Jen’s mission is to help women be the most calm, empowered, and present person in the room, so they can live fully as the women God created them to be. She offers both one-on-one and group coaching and is a sought-after guest speaker at churches and women’s events.

 

Key Takeaways:

• Overcoming Limiting Beliefs: Learn how to combat the lies that hold you back and step into the truth that God created you for more.

• Finding Calm in Chaos: Jen shares her journey of making "Calm" her word for the year and how it transformed her life, helping her navigate the storms of 2024.

• God-Given Purpose: We are all created on purpose, for a purpose. Don’t settle for less than God’s best.

• Empowering Women: Through coaching and ministry, Jen helps women become the calm, empowered, and present version of themselves.

• Practical Steps: Jen offers actionable steps to transform your mindset, find peace, and live out God’s promises in your daily life.

 

Book a Coaching Session: If you’re ready to step into your God-given purpose and find calm in the chaos, Jen Peters offers both one-on-one and group coaching for Christian women. She provides practical tools, encouragement, and Christ-centered guidance to help you on your journey.

 

Contact Jen:

• Website: mylifecoachjen.com

• Email: jen@mylifecoachjen.com

• Facebook: My Life Coach Jen

• Instagram: @mylifecoachjen

Spots are still available for Jen’s group coaching starting in January! Reach out to secure your place.

 

Thank you for listening!

We hope this episode encourages you to embrace your story, find calm in the chaos, and step boldly into your purpose. Be sure to subscribe, rate, and review The Women Behind the Words podcast. Your feedback helps us continue to bring you inspiring and uplifting content.

Share this episode with a friend who needs to hear this message of hope and empowerment!

Episode 55 - “God’s Presence in the Process: Writing as a Path to Healing" with Dr. Kathy Hendley

Date: December 11, 2024

Podcast Show Notes: Interview with Dr. Kathy Hendley

 

Story Highlight:
Welcome to The Women Behind the Words! In this heartfelt episode, our guest, Kathy Hendley, shares her inspiring journey of faith, resilience, and creativity. Recently, Kathy had the unforgettable experience of meeting Priscilla Shirer during her visit to Cincinnati. As a member of Priscilla’s street team, Kathy spent months praying for the event. Meeting Priscilla backstage left a lasting impact—Kathy describes her as the same person offstage as on, full of warmth, gratitude, and the love of Jesus.

Kathy’s passion for encouraging writers shines through her programs like the Write on Purpose Virtual Writing Retreat and the November Challenge Writing Contest. These initiatives provide tools and inspiration for writers to step into their calling and share the messages God has placed on their hearts.

Her personal writing journey is deeply tied to her experiences of pain and healing. Initially writing short stories about people navigating loss, Kathy eventually crafted a novel about a young teacher enduring immense challenges. Fiction became a refuge, helping her process trauma that felt overwhelming in memoir form. As a foster and adoptive mother to two children, including a daughter with a mental illness, writing became a therapeutic outlet.

Kathy's faith has been her anchor through difficult seasons, especially the struggles related to her daughter’s mental health. Even during moments involving police intervention, God’s grace protected and reunited their family. Her resilience was further tested by the loss of her father, who battled liver cancer. Completing her novel shortly before his passing in April gave her strength and reminded her of God’s faithfulness.

Her father’s unwavering support—both emotional and financial—fueled Kathy’s writing career. He funded her book and writing business and encouraged her to attend the Advanced Writers and Speakers Association (AWSA), where she found invaluable connections. A transformative workshop, "My Business Meeting with God," helped Kathy realign her work with her faith and purpose.

This episode is a powerful reminder that through storytelling, faith, and determination, hope and healing are possible even in the most challenging circumstances. Kathy’s journey will inspire you to step boldly into your calling and trust God’s plans. 

 

About the Guest (Bio):
Dr. Kathy Hendley is a teacher, author, speaker, and member of Word Weavers International and AWSA. Kathy’s mission is to help others overcome obstacles, achieve their goals, and commit to their calling. Her debut novel, Murder in the Masterpiece: A Teacher’s Deadly Lesson, will be released in mid-January. She also hosts a monthly virtual writing retreat called Write on Purpose and a writing contest for Christian authors, with winners featured in an anthology. When she’s not working, Kathy serves on her church’s worship and prayer teams. She’s also a self-proclaimed Bible study enthusiast, traveling the tri-state area for a good women’s Bible study.

 

Book Spotlight:
Murder in the Masterpiece: A Teacher’s Deadly Lesson
Faye Unger is a talented young teacher at Arlington Community School. Though passionate about teaching math, she strives to balance her professional life with her artistic pursuits. Her mentor, Don Ambrose, supports her in maintaining this balance, despite his own life being consumed by his wife’s murder the previous year.

Their lives take a dark turn when Don is found unconscious in a ravine. As Faye delves into her art and the enigmatic world of the Auction House, Don’s investigation into his wife’s murder uncovers connections to Faye’s family. When Faye discovers illegal drugs in her apartment, she finds herself entangled in a sinister plot. With the killer returning to Arlington, Don faces a difficult choice: protect Faye or solve his wife’s murder.

 

Connect with Kathy:
Patreon: patreon.com/KathyHendley
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/kathy-hendley-phd-aba00571
Website: kathyhendley.com