Women Behind the Words

Episode 46 - Redeemed, Restored, Repurposed with Cheryl Schuermann

Date: September 24, 2024
Podcast Show Notes: Interview with Cheryl Schuermann

 

Story Highlight:

We're excited to welcome Cheryl Schuermann, author of Farmhouse Devotions: God’s Glory in the Ordinary, to this episode of "The Women Behind the Words." This year, Cheryl's book was honored as the 2024 Devotional Book of the Year at The Golden Scroll Awards Banquet. Her devotional takes readers on a heartfelt journey, sharing the real-life story that God wove into the construction of her family's farmhouse.

Many years ago, Cheryl's in-laws purchased 55 acres of farmland, praying that it would one day become a generational homestead. Though they didn’t see it fulfilled in their lifetimes, their vision lived on through their son, Stan, his wife Cheryl, and their four sons, who would eventually bring this dream to reality.

After caring for both sets of parents until their passing, Cheryl and her family began building their farmhouse in 2016, despite facing the emotional challenges of losing all four parents within months of each other. Amid grief and Cheryl’s health struggles, God provided peace, giving them "beauty for ashes, the oil of joy for mourning, and the garment of praise instead of a spirit of heaviness" (Isaiah 61:3a). Throughout this process, God taught them valuable lessons about simplicity, comfort, and finding His presence in the ordinary moments of life. Cheryl envisioned the farmhouse as a place of warmth, security, and consistency, inspired by her cherished memories of childhood visits to her grandparents' homes.

One of the most significant moments for Cheryl was discovering old church doors in a shed on the property. These doors became a symbol for everyone who crossed their threshold, representing God’s power to redeem, restore, and repurpose even the most worn-out things. Just as Cheryl and her husband built their farmhouse using old materials, God takes us—broken and discarded—and transforms us into vessels of His glory, ready to make a difference in the world.

Cheryl shares how God continued to teach her lessons at every turn. As they built a spacious pantry, she was reminded of God's endless provision. Unlike her pantry, which constantly needs replenishing, God's storehouse is always full, providing all we need.

Cheryl encourages us to slow down, spend time with Jesus, and seek Him in His Word daily—not only for our benefit but so that His love can overflow to others. Today, "The Farm," as they affectionately call it, is a place of refreshment for family, retreats, meetings, and ministries, and it has become a revolving door of warm hospitality.

Inspired by Habakkuk 2:2, Cheryl and her family wrote down their vision, hoping that future generations would live lives of faith and continue as a family that loves God. They are now witnessing their prayer come to life.

 

About the Guest (Bio):

Before transitioning to writing full-time, Cheryl Schuermann dedicated her professional career to literacy education as a classroom teacher, consultant, and curriculum trainer across the United States. She is the author of five traditionally published books, including her debut devotional, Farmhouse Devotions: God’s Glory in the Ordinary (Bold Vision Books, May 2024), which was recently named the AWSA 2024 Golden Scroll Devotional Book of the Year.

Cheryl is actively involved as a president of Word Weavers International and is a member of the Advanced Writers and Speakers Association (AWSA) and Christian Authors Network/CIPA. In addition to writing, she facilitates a caregiver support group in her community and, for the past 25 years, has mentored and taught parents at her local church.

Cheryl finds joy in spending time with her family, which includes her four sons, four daughters-in-love, and thirteen grandchildren. They are her inspiration and the source of many of her stories. The Farm is her favorite place to write, be with family, and host ministry groups.

 

Book Spotlight:

Farmhouse Devotions: God’s Glory in the Ordinary invites readers to embark on a journey that reveals God's truth and wisdom in everyday experiences. From picture rails and antique church doors to prairie flowers and sticktights, this sixty-day devotional blends sound biblical truth with the timeless charm of farmhouse living. The book includes original artwork and family-friendly recipes, making it a delight for readers seeking both spiritual nourishment and a taste of simpler times.

Cheryl Schuermann invites everyone who finds refreshment in shady porches, simpler moments, and comforting truths to join her on this journey. With each devotion, readers are encouraged to grab a cup of coffee, get comfortable, and meditate on God’s Word. Farmhouse Devotions is a warm invitation to experience God’s glory in the ordinary and discover how He meets us in the most unexpected places. Welcome to The Farm!

 

Connect with Cheryl:

• Facebook Personal: Cheryl W. Schuermann
• Facebook Author Page: Cheryl Schuermann Author
• Website: https://cherylschuermann.com/

 

Episode 45 - A Glimpse of His Glory ~ Pam’s Near Death Experience! with Pam Farrell

Date: September 17, 2024
Podcast Show Notes: Interview with Pam Farrell

 

Story Highlight:
Join us for an incredible and moving episode of The Women Behind the Words as we welcome our guest, Pam Farrell, to share her life-changing experience detailed in her latest book, A Glimpse of God’s Glory: One Woman’s Near-Death Experience. In this episode, Pam opens up about her true story of crossing into Heaven, describing the indescribable beauty and peace she experienced, as well as her profound conversation with Jesus.

Pam vividly recounts the moment she entered Heaven, where she was surrounded by breathtaking beauty beyond words. She shares the warmth and love she felt as she communicated with Jesus in a way that transcended language, leaving her deeply comforted and forever changed. Through Pam's eyes, you'll hear about the extraordinary colors and imagery of Heaven, painting a picture that will stir your soul and fill you with anticipation for your own eternal home.

If you’ve ever wrestled with fear about death, Pam’s testimony offers reassurance and comfort. She explains how Jesus sent her back to Earth with a clear message—her purpose was not yet complete, and there was still work to be done for His Kingdom. Pam’s story reminds us all that life here has purpose and meaning, and when our time on Earth is over, a place of overwhelming love and peace awaits us in Heaven.

This episode will leave you feeling inspired and comforted, knowing that death is not the end, but rather a beautiful transition into eternal life with our Savior. Pam’s storytelling will transform how you think about life, death, and eternity, offering hope and excitement for the day we all meet Jesus face-to-face.

 

About Our Guest (Bio):
Pam Farrel is an international speaker, relationship expert, and the author or co-author of 61 books, including her latest, A Glimpse of God’s Glory: One Woman’s Near-Death Experience. Together with her husband, Bill, she co-directs Love-Wise ministries. The couple resides on a live-aboard boat in Southern California. When not traveling to speak or busy writing, Pam enjoys time with their three sons, daughters-in-law, and seven grandchildren. She also finds joy in beach walks, kayaking, and relaxing with a warm latte while admiring God’s stunning sunsets.

 

Book Spotlight:
Do you have questions about:

• Life after death?
• The hope of Heaven?
• Medical diagnoses?
• What happens when we near death’s door?
• Whether there is a Creator God?
• How does faith bring peace in a crisis?
• Your life’s mission?
• Whether the Bible trustworthy?

Pam Farrel takes readers on a transparent, honest journey from her vibrant life as a Christian speaker and writer to the ICU, where she was in a coma and on the brink of death. In A Glimpse of God’s Glory: One Woman’s Near-Death Experience, Pam shares her roller-coaster health journey and near-death experience with incredible detail and emotion. As you navigate these questions and explore life’s most important relationships through her story, you will find answers to some of life’s most vital questions, including the meaning of life, the reality of death, the promises of scripture, and the hope of Heaven.

 

Link to Amazon:
A Glimpse of God’s Glory: One Woman’s Near-Death Experience [Amazon Link]

 

Free Download:
Infectious Joy 30-Day Ebook on Joy
Download Here

 

Connect with Pam:
Pamela Farrell Author: Pam's Facebook
Bill and Pam Farrell on FB: Bill and Pam's Facebook
Instagram: @Lovewise62
Pinterest: @pamfarrel

Episode 44 - YOU Are The Missing Puzzle Piece! with Liz Pitman

Date: August 20, 2024
Podcast Show Notes: Interview with Liz Pitman

 

Story Highlight:
Join us for an uplifting and inspiring episode as we welcome Liz Pitman, the award-winning author, speaker, educator, and founder of Puzzle Piece Productions and Publications. You’re in for a treat as Liz shares her incredible journey of creating Pete, the Puzzle Piece, a character who has touched countless lives. In this episode, Liz reveals the heartfelt story of how Pete came to be, and how this simple character has profoundly impacted her life and the lives of others.

Through touching accounts, Liz shares how Pete resonates with people of all ages, even bringing grown men to tears as they recognize themselves in his journey. She delves into the power of personal stories, emphasizing that, like Pete, we all have a unique place in the bigger picture. This episode will inspire you to embrace your identity, recognize your value, and find freedom in knowing where you belong in God’s family.

As Liz introduces Pete’s story, you’ll discover the importance of your own unique place in the world and walk away with the joy and confidence that comes from embracing who you truly are without the pressure of trying to be someone else. This is an unforgettable episode that you won’t want to miss. Tune in for a delightful conversation that will leave you feeling encouraged, inspired, and ready to celebrate your own unique role in life’s grand puzzle. Listen now and prepare to be inspired by Liz Pitman and her heartwarming creation, Pete the Puzzle Piece!

 

About the Guest (Bio):
Liz Aldred Pitman is the author of Where Is the Missing Puzzle Piece?, and the founder of Puzzle Piece Productions and Publications. Her work centers on establishing identity, purpose, and worth through understanding who we are in God’s eyes—His incredible masterpiece (Ephesians 2:10).

Liz has spent ten years working and teaching in Christian education, where she found great joy in guiding today’s young leaders. She holds an English Literature degree from Mississippi College and also attended Calvary Chapel Bible College, where she deepened her relationship with the Lord.

With a heart for missions, Liz has spent several summers volunteering at food banks in Israel and served on the USA Board of Bridges for Peace for three years. Her greatest joy is spending time with her family, especially with her son, Joshua, who has inspired many of the characters in her books. Liz’s desire is to help people realize their value and purpose, encouraging them to step into their vital, God-given destinies.

To learn more about Liz, her books, and the Masterpiece Collection, visit her website at petethepuzzlepiece.com and follow her on social media: @LizPitmanAuthor.

 

Book Spotlight:
Where Is the Missing Puzzle Piece? is a children’s book with a message that speaks to all ages about identity, worth, and purpose. As readers journey with the main character, Pete, they find themselves reflected in his story. Pete struggles to fit in and tries to be like every other puzzle piece in his town. After numerous attempts to be anyone but himself, Pete feels like a failure. Unable to recognize his unique gifts, Pete leaves the town of Jigsaw and runs from his purpose. On his journey, he meets a kind-hearted boy named Will, who sees Pete’s potential and encourages him to return and pursue his dreams. This encounter sparks an incredible friendship and a joyful surprise as Pete returns to Jigsaw and steps into his God-given destiny.

Liz A. Pitman has spent a decade working in Christian education, guiding and inspiring students. She holds a degree in English Literature from Mississippi College and has deepened her faith through studies at Calvary Chapel Bible College. With a heart for missions, Liz has volunteered at food banks in Israel for several summers. Her first love is Jesus, followed by her husband and her precious son, Joshua. Liz’s mission is to help people recognize their value and purpose, encouraging them to step into their God-given destinies.

 

Connect with Liz:
📞: 850-206-9618
📧: hello@lizpitman.com
💻: petethepuzzlepiece.com
Facebook: @lizpitmanauthor
Instagram: @lizpitmanauthor

Episode 43 - A Well-Watered Garden with Cynthia Fantasia

Date: Tuesday, August 13, 2024

Podcast Show Notes: Interview with Cynthia Fantasia

 

Story Highlight: Welcome to The Women Behind the Words! We are thrilled to bring you one of our most impactful interviews to date. As I chatted with Cynthia Fantasia, her soothing voice and profound sense of contentment and peace resonated throughout our conversation.

Cynthia spent ten years teaching in a prestigious school district in Lexington, MA, and loved every moment of it. One night, her pastor called with an invitation to join the church staff as the Pastor of Women. Initially, she declined, content with her current position. However, after 18 months of wrestling with God, she realized this was His plan for her future. She faithfully served her church for the next 25 years until she felt God calling her to retire, not from ministry, but from her role as Pastor of Women.

Shortly after her retirement, Cynthia faced a life-changing moment when her husband Bob was diagnosed with an aggressive form of Alzheimer’s Disease. This devastating news altered their lives forever. Her experiences with Bob's illness and her role as his caregiver are beautifully detailed in her book, "In the Lingering Light," and she shares these insights with us in this episode.

Cynthia's story is conveyed through the beauty of the Lord and His faithfulness. She organizes her life journey into two simple, poignant lists, making her interview one of the most powerful episodes we have ever aired.

Listening to Cynthia recount her husband's last words will erase any doubt, uncertainty, or fear you may have about facing challenging times. We are reminded that we serve a Living God who never leaves us alone. Even in our darkest moments, God is our Lingering Light.

 

About the Guest (Bio): Cynthia Fantasia served as Pastor of Women at Grace Chapel in Lexington, MA, for 25 years. Now enjoying a 'busy' retirement, she dedicates her time to mentoring younger women in ministry and speaking in various settings.

Cynthia has a deep passion for helping people grow in their faith and leadership. She joyfully serves on the Board of Leadership Transformations and speaks both nationally and internationally. Her first book, "In the Lingering Light," chronicles her husband's journey through Alzheimer’s Disease and her role as his caregiver.

Additionally, Cynthia is a contributing author in several books and has written numerous Bible studies that are used in churches across the country. She has three adult children and five grandchildren. Cynthia enjoys long walks, great books, time by the ocean, and seeing the world through the eyes of her grandchildren.

 

Book Spotlight: In the Lingering Light: Courage and Hope for the Alzheimer’s Caregiver by Cynthia Fantasia

Alzheimer’s is a particularly cruel disease, slowly and subtly robbing us of the people we love. Our love is tested as their needs increase while their recall decreases. Our own needs often suffer neglect as more of our time and attention is given to our loved ones.

Cynthia Fantasia is a caregiver who has walked this challenging path. In her deeply understanding and empowering book, In the Lingering Light: Courage and Hope for the Alzheimer’s Caregiver, she guides readers through the landscape of caregiving—both for their loved ones and for themselves.

Fantasia introduces readers to friends and fellow travelers who offer their own words of empathy and insight, creating a supportive community within the pages. Through her narrative, she empowers caregivers to live well, despite the heavy demands of caring for someone with Alzheimer’s.

This book is a beacon of hope and a source of strength for those navigating the difficult journey of Alzheimer’s caregiving. Fantasia’s compassionate approach provides the encouragement needed to maintain personal well-being while offering the best care possible for loved ones.

 

Connect with Cynthia:

Website

Email

Facebook

Youtube

Episode 42 - Hope When the Body of Christ Hurts You with Donna Jones

Date: Tuesday, July 30, 2024

Podcast Show Notes: Interview with Donna Jones

 

Story Highlight: Welcome to The Women Behind the Words. Today, we’re excited to welcome our guest, Donna Jones, to share her insights from a difficult season in her life titled “Hope When the Body of Christ Hurts You.”

Donna’s husband was a pastor, she taught women’s Bible studies, and their family thrived in their church community. When conflict erupted, the Jones family was blindsided by lies and cruelty from people they loved. Donna faced immense pain, feeling isolated and struggling with sleep, with no safe place to turn. Googling for help yielded no results, adding to her confusion and pain. In her distress, God reminded her of Jesus’ own betrayal and suffering.

Realizing that where there are humans, conflict is inevitable and that the enemy uses these conflicts to attack unity, Donna focused on Jesus and His truth. Journaling became a tool for processing pain, and inviting Jesus into her struggles brought profound healing. She learned that pulling back from the church often leads to pulling back from Jesus, and that her own response and obedience to God were critical.

Donna initially believed resolution required others to change and apologize. However, she realized that focusing on what God wanted her to do was essential. She avoided bitterness, fulfilling her responsibilities while dealing with pain privately. Donna taught women in her Bible study, understanding that conflict, when handled correctly, can bring us closer to Jesus. She learned that forgiveness is not a free pass but a release from hurt, and it’s a choice and process.

Key quotes from Donna include: "Jesus, I invite You into my pain," "Forgiveness is NOT giving the other person a free pass to hurt you again,” and “Forgiveness IS releasing yourself from the hurt that person caused you and saying 'That was so bad it cost Jesus His life.'"

Donna’s journey through church conflict has taught her deep spiritual lessons. No matter where your pain comes from, seek to do the right thing, and God will pour out His grace. If you’ve been hurt by the Body of Christ or are dealing with conflict, remember that Jesus understands your pain and is there to guide you through it. Thank you, Donna Jones, for sharing your story and insights with us today. Stay tuned for our next episode, where we’ll continue to explore the stories and wisdom of women who have walked through challenges and found hope in Jesus.

 

About the Guest (Bio): Donna Jones is a deeply passionate Bible teacher, known as a "Bible explainer," who helps listeners understand and live out God’s Word. With a lifetime of Bible knowledge, real-life wisdom, and a touch of wit, Donna propels her audience forward in their journey with God. Described as “a pro on stage, but with the warmth of a friend,” she is practical, biblical, engaging, and real.

Donna’s mission is to equip, encourage, and inspire others to know, love, and follow God more deeply. Whether speaking to seekers, young believers, or seasoned veterans of the faith, she aims to make God's truths accessible and impactful.

In her own words: “Whether I’m speaking to a room full of seekers and young believers, a room full of veterans of the faith, or a combination of both, I seek to equip, encourage, and inspire others to know God more, love God more, and follow God more. I want to know, love, and follow God more myself.”

Donna is also just a regular gal who enjoys her morning coffee, sometimes struggles with dinner ideas, and always loves to laugh. If you lived next door, you'd likely be friends.

 

Book Spotlight: Healthy Conflict, Peaceful Life by Donna Jones

Author, speaker, and pastor’s wife Donna Jones provides women with a practical, biblical blueprint for making regret-free choices amid real-life conflict, allowing them to exchange relational turmoil for personal and relational peace.

We’ve all had moments where we look back on a conflict, shake our heads, and think, "Why did I handle it that way?" With three decades of ministry experience, Donna Jones has seen—and experienced—all kinds of conflict. She understands the regret, guilt, heartache, and hurt conflict can produce, but she also knows it’s possible for God to transform those chaotic, painful moments into opportunities for better connections with those around us.

With encouragement, warmth, and wisdom, Donna shows readers how to navigate the stressful confusion conflict can bring. She helps them to:

• Discover the single most important quality necessary to handle conflict well;
• Communicate thoughts, feelings, and opinions with grace, truth, and zero regret;
• Handle conflict in a God-honoring way by exchanging conflict styles that hurt for conflict styles that heal;
• Identify common conflict mistakes and prevent unnecessary disagreements and defeat;
• Remain calm in the midst of chaos and avoid being pulled into other people’s drama.

Whether dealing with daily disagreements or occasional blowups, Healthy Conflict, Peaceful Life offers a new paradigm. Readers will learn how to honor God when they’ve been hurt, communicate when they’d rather retaliate, and move toward others when it seems easier to run away.

 

Connect with Donna:

www.donnajones.org

Instagram

Podcast

Latest Book

Episode 41 - Mining the Depths of God’s Word with Kathy Howard

Date: July 23, 2024 

Podcast Show Notes: Interview with Kathy Howard

 

Story Highlight: Welcome to The Women Behind the Words. Today, we are thrilled to have Kathy Howard join us at our table. Kathy considers herself  a treasure hunter, delving deep into God's Word, uncovering His eternal truths to share with others. 

Kathy shares the transformative power of God's Word in her own life, and the personal impact the Bible has had on her especially after a startling revelation she had while attending a Bible study at her church.  As a mature adult, thinking she understood God and His Word, she recognized she didn’t have a saving faith, even though she gave her heart to Jesus at 8 years old. Her story of sharing that with her church reveals her humility and then the freedom that accompanied that life-changing experience!

Our discussion today includes common reasons Christians don’t get into the Bible more with Kathy explaining the barriers that keep believers from engaging with Scripture and the importance of developing a consistent habit of quality time in God's Word.

She touches on Identifying and addressing the pitfalls we often encounter when reading the Bible and stresses the joy of learning  to engage deeply with Scripture independently.

Kathy highlights God’s intent for His Word in our lives, and opens up  a path of understanding how God desires to use Scripture to guide and grow us, equipping us with practical steps to delight in and apply God’s Word  to our lives daily.

For decades, Kathy has been teaching others the importance of cultivating a Gospel-centered faith with a solid grasp of essential truths, which results in being able to rely on the Holy Spirit’s guidance and power daily. I promise you will leave our time together refreshed and ready to dig deeper!

 

About the Guest (Bio): Kathy Howard is a treasure hunter. She hunts for the creamiest chocolate and richest coffee. She searches for cherished stories of faith that still impact hearts. And, she digs deep into God’s Word, mining His eternal truths for herself and to share with others. With more than 30 years of experience, Kathy has taught in dozens of states, internationally, and in a wide range of venues including multi-church conferences and large online events.

She has a Masters of Christian Education and a certificate in Women’s Ministry from the Canadian Baptist Theological Seminary. Kathy is the author of more than a dozen books, including five Bible studies, the meaty “Deep Rooted” devotional series and “Heirloom.” She also serves on the LifeWay Women’s Ministry Training Team. Kathy and her husband live in the Dallas/Ft Worth area near their family. They have three married children and six grandchildren. Kathy provides free discipleship resources and blogs regularly at www.KathyHoward.org.

 

Book Spotlight: Deep Rooted: Growing through the Book of Hebrews

Are you spiritually exhausted? Following Jesus can be hard. Discouragement, difficulties, and defeat often wear us down. So, why bother? The book of Hebrews answers that question. This 40-day devotional journey provides encouragement to run our race of faith with endurance and reminds us that our Savior is far superior to anything and everything the world can offer.

Like the rest of the Deep Rooted devotional series, the Hebrews volume uses a simple Bible study framework to help you learn how to interact with and respond to Scripture, not simply read it. These meaty, daily devotions are designed to help you:

• Develop a regular habit of spending quality time in God’s Word
• Learn how to dig into Scripture on your own
• Cultivate a gospel-soaked faith with a solid grasp on the essential truths
• Depend daily on the Holy Spirit’s guidance and power 

 

Connect with Kathy:

Facebook

Instagram 

Youtube 

Website

Episode 40 - When God Does The Work with Katelyn Pfeiffer

Date: July 16, 2024

Podcast Show Notes: Interview with Katelyn Pfeiffer

 

Story Highlight: Thanks for joining us today on "The Women Behind the Words" as we welcome Katelyn Pfeiffer to the table. Kate shares from her heart about growing up as a pastor's daughter, loving her childhood, her home, her church, and her life. She recalls a pivotal moment in her young life when, by accident, she watched a movie that depicted the battle between good and evil. This brought her to the sobering realization of her own mortality and her need for Jesus’ salvation. In that instant, she cried out to Jesus, accepting His love and salvation.

In her later years, Kate experienced a period of rebellion during high school, a common struggle among pastor’s children. She lived in two worlds without anyone noticing, viewing God as an ATM machine, only turning to Him in times of need. This mindset led her to make poor relationship choices, leaving her confused and ashamed. She admits that her rebellion was fueled by anger towards God and a lack of a real, personal relationship with Him.

It wasn’t until the death of her mother that Kate fully surrendered her heart to Jesus. This marked the beginning of a profound transformation, as He started to redeem and restore her from the inside out. With this renewed perspective, Kate offers valuable advice to parents dealing with rebellious children. She emphasizes the importance of recognizing that our children belong to Jesus first and foremost, and the need to create a safe, unconditionally loving environment for them.

Kate candidly shares her struggle with false and true identity, and how the Lord led her through this journey to a place of freedom. She speaks of the healing she received following the loss of her mother and how a dream played a significant role in that healing process. Her story is a powerful testimony of God’s ability to retrain our thinking and redefine our identity according to His truth.

In closing, Kate underscores the importance of surrendering not just our own hearts, but also our children to God. She leaves us with a message of hope and a charming quote to apply to our own lives, encouraging us to remember Whose we are. Thank you for joining us! We pray this episode leaves you with fresh hope and a deeper understanding of your identity in Christ.

 

About the Guest (Bio): Born in California, Katelyn moved to Virginia with her parents and older brother at the young age of 1 and a half years old. The youngest child of a reading specialist and a pastor, books were readily available to Katelyn while growing up. At a young age, Katelyn found her love of reading and the arts, spending her summers at the community pool and in and out of local libraries. By High School she had begun writing as well as painting, drawing, and acting. Beginning with poems and short stories, Katelyn also kept journals  a discipline she continues today. Her first published work was a poem she wrote in high school, released through poetry.com. She published a book in 2018 titled City of End, a predecessor to her first published work through Elk Lake Publishing Inc.

Following in her mothers’ footsteps, Katelyn married a pastor in 2019. Shortly after, they adopted three cats and gave birth to two beautiful children. Blessed with a growing immediate and extended family, Katelyn and Jordan are Aunt and Uncle to multiple nieces and nephews. Their church is located in Manassas, Virginia.

Still attempting to read as much as she can, Katelyn enjoys the classics written by authors like Alexander Dumas, Shakespeare, C.S. Lewis, Tolkein, Oscar Wilde, and F. Scott Fitzgerald. She also enjoys escaping into the fantasy worlds penned by J.K Rowling, Tracy Hickman and Margaret Weis, Robert Jordan, Ted Dekker, and Rick Riordan. Her love of escape into another world and the adventures the characters are taken on is a discipline she strives to bring to her own writing.

 

Book Spotlight: City of End: The Tree of Life Series Vol. 1

In the year 4085, humanity survives underground in the cavernous End City, a desolate refuge following a nuclear genocide that ravaged the earth’s surface. The Program is the lifeline that keeps End alive, conscripting every woman of age to ensure the city's survival against the relentless Bashers. The city’s authorities turn a blind eye to the Program’s devastating impact, prioritizing survival over individual suffering.

Aoire, an orphan with extraordinary abilities and no knowledge of her origins, is approaching her Collection Day—the day she must face the harsh realities of the Program. Her world is further upended when she encounters a man wielding dark magic, revealing that her destiny may never have been her own to control.

Caught between her duty to End City and her desire to use her unique gifts to help others, Aoire confronts End’s greatest threat. As the city's most critical day approaches, she must unveil herself not only to her fellow citizens but also to the dark forces threatening their existence. With the powerful Tree of Life under enemy control, Aoire’s mission is clear: save the Tree, end the war on humanity, and protect her city and friends—all while evading capture.

Can Aoire harness her abilities and courage to save End City from destruction? Join her gripping journey in "City of End: The Tree of Life Series Vol. 1" by Katelyn Pfeiffer, a tale of resilience, mystery, and the unyielding fight for survival.

 

Connect with Katelyn:

Facebook

Instagram

Website

Katelyn's First Book - Amazon

Epsiode 39 - The Gift of Living in God’s Grace with Nancy Kay Grace

Date: July 9, 2024

Podcast Show Notes: Interview with Nancy Kay Grace

 

Story Highlight: Welcome to The Women Behind the Words. Today, we have a delightful episode featuring Nancy Kay Grace, and we're excited to share a grace-filled interview with you. Nancy's journey began with struggles as a perfectionist, battling comparison and low self-esteem. However, in her teen years, she encountered Jesus, who showed her unconditional love and revealed that her worth came through God's grace, not her performance.

Nancy's passion now revolves around sharing God's love and imparting the truth about His grace in our lives to all Jesus brings her way. As a speaker, writing coach, and award-winning author of The Grace Impact, Nancy opens her heart to discuss raising her children as pastor's kids, a role that taught her invaluable lessons about grace. She has also faced the challenge of tongue cancer multiple times, relying on God's grace for strength.

Having pastored for over 45 years alongside her husband, Rick, in small rural towns, Nancy reflects on her journey from growing up in Chicago to loving the charm of small-town life. Today, Nancy and her husband reside in Texas, where they minister to pastors and their wives, emphasizing the importance of reaching out to those who minister to others. Nancy's candid insights into the challenges faced by pastors' wives are shared through a special ministry initiative, Alongside—Ministering to Pastor’s Wives, where the women meet in the group of their choice where they are offered group-led discussions and support to navigate the unique roles they fulfill.

Whether you're a pastor's wife or someone seeking encouragement, Nancy's message of hope and grace extends to all. Please share this grace-filled interview with anyone who may benefit from Nancy's inspiring journey and insights!

 

About the Guest (Bio): Nancy Kay Grace struggled with low self-esteem due to perfectionism, comparisons, and performance. God has shown her true worth through the grace of Jesus. Now she shares hope in Jesus so others can know their worth in the eyes of God.

Nancy Kay Grace is a speaker, writing coach, and award-winning author of The Grace Impact, a devotional about God’s grace. She has written for The Upper Room magazine, Chicken Soup for the Soul books, and other print and digital publications. She loves to inspire others about living in God’s grace. 

On her faith journey, Nancy has learned to trust God in deeper ways as she’s coped with challenges of raising a family as a pastor’s wife. She’s lived through the unexpected detours of tongue cancer several times. 

Nancy recently relocated to Texas with her husband Rick, where they serve in ministry to encourage pastors across the country. They have 2 adult children and six grandchildren. 

For relaxation, Nancy enjoys hugs from grandchildren, playing piano, hiking, and traveling.

Book Spotlight: The Grace Impact - A Devotional 

God alone is able to set into motion the “grace impact”—His ability to work in and through any situation, revealing His love and forgiveness to us, thereby drawing us to Himself, ultimately through the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. The initial impact of God’s grace to each of us comes by accepting salvation through Jesus. It continues in us and through us as our lives are transformed by yielding more to the Lord. As we grow in faith, we share God’s grace with others. Like a drop of water released on a smooth lake, the ripples of the grace impact continue to reach outward to many.

Not only can The Grace Impact be read as a thirty-day daily devotional, but it can also be used as a Bible study guide on grace. At the end of each daily reading there is a section called “Deepening the Grace Impact.” There are additional scriptures for further study, questions for your own meditation, and a prayer.

 

Connect With Nancy:

https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61553012821261

https://www.instagram.com/nancykaygrace/

https://www.nancykaygrace.com 

https://www.amazon.com/Grace-Impact-Nancy-Kay/dp/1936501120