

Your Best Writing Life
Linda Goldfarb
Each Tuesday, Linda Goldfarb and her writing industry experts share content for all levels of writers. You receive practical information and how-to applications to grow your writing career as a faith-based author. --We provide content to help you grow as a Christian writer to make your next book proposal, manuscript editing, speaking event, and writer's conference worth your time and energy. --Our episodes average 30 minutes -- Hit subscribe and join our family of writers. --Your Best Writing Life is associated with the Blue Ridge Mountains Christian Writers Conference. --If you currently teach at Christian Writers/Speakers conferences, Linda would be interested in interviewing you. Please request a guest interview intake sheet - email Heather.YourBestWritingLife@gmail.com
Episodes
Mentioned books

May 9, 2023 • 34min
Writing People-Oriented Articles with Linda Gilden
What did you think of this episode?Have you considered writing articles, but you’re not sure what type to write? Linda Goldfarb and Linda Gilden talk about writing people-based articles, part one of a Deep Dive into Article Writing.I’m your host Linda Goldfarb. Each week I bring you tips and strategies from experts in the writing and publishing industry to help you excel in your craft. My industry expert is Linda Gilden – Linda is an award-winning Amazon bestselling author of the LINKED Personality Series, Mommy Pick-Me-Ups, Mama Was the Queen of Christmas, Personality Perspectives, Called to Write, Why You Do What You Do, Words to Live By, Called to Speak, Articles, Articles, Articles, and several ghostwritten books. As a freelance editor and writing coach, working with publishers and individuals, she encourages others to make their writing the best it can be. Linda is a wife, mother, and grandmother of the six cutest grandchildren in the WORLD! Her greatest joy is the time spent with her family. Her favorite activity is floating in a pool with a good book surrounded by splashing children!Writing People-Oriented ArticlesThe first people-oriented articles are - Personal Experiences. 1 Why would anyone want to read/hear about my experiences?2 Do I really have anything of value to say to others?3 Who is your audience?The second people-based articles are about Profiles.4 What is the difference between a profile article and a personal experience article?5 As a Christian writer, do I always have to write for Christian markets?6 Where is the best place to pitch a personal experience or profile article?LINKSLinda GildenSample Article Submission Page PDFIf you enjoy Your Best Writing Life's content- consider a monthly donation through Patreon. Support Your Best Writing Life podcast.About your host - Linda GoldfarbBesides hosting Your Best Writing Life, Linda Goldfarb is a multi-published award-winning author, audiobook narrator, international speaker, board-certified Christian life coach, co-owner, co-founder of the LINKED® Personality System, and co-author of the LINKED® Quick Guide to Personality series. Linda also hosts the Visit Your Best Writing Life website.Join our Facebook group, Your Best Writing LifeYour host - Linda Goldfarb#1 Podcast in the "Top 50+ Must-Have Tools and Resources for Christian Writers in 2024". Awarded the Spark Media 2022 Most Binge-Worthy PodcastAwarded the Spark Media 2023 Fan Favorites Best Solo Podcast

May 2, 2023 • 41min
Further Defining Your Hero’s Journey with Andrew Jackson
What did you think of this episode?Are you following the hero’s journey in your personal life? Linda Goldfarb and Andrew Jackson share part two of the Hero’s Journey for Writers. Welcome to Your Best Writing Life, I’m your host, Linda Goldfarb, and I’m so glad you’re listening in, during this episode, we examine – Part Two in the Hero’s Journey for Writers – with Further Defining Your Hero’s Journey. My industry expert is A.E. Jackson! Andrew writes uncanny speculative fiction for your enjoyment. He believes there are malevolent forces, just below the surface, tugging us all down. He knows another force, more benevolent than we deserve, works to keep us buoyant. He reads Ray Bradbury, Shirley Jackson, Roald Dahl, Stephen King, Paulo Coelho, Richard Matheson, H.P. Lovecraft, and Richard Bach. He lives in Delaware and is married with two children.Part 2 – Further Defining Your Hero’s Journey Your personal hero's journey is a guided personal examination of past passions, desires, and current dreams. Explore the seven aspects which comprise your personal hero’s journey. 1- Find a Character 2- Find a Passion 3- Find a Guide 4- Find a Plan 5- Find a Journey 6- Find a Goal 7- Find a Failure LINKSA.E. (Andrew) JacksonGrab your Personal Hero's Journey PlanRecommended Reading The Hero with A Thousand Faces by Joseph CampbellThe Writer's Journey: Mythic Structure for Writers by Christopher VoglerStealing Fire From The Gods by James BonnetMan's Search for Meaning by Viktor FranklStoryline: Finding Your Subplot in God's Story by Donald MillerThe Dream Giver by Bruce WilkinsonIf you enjoy Your Best Writing Life's content- consider a monthly donation through Patreon. Support Your Best Writing Life podcast.About your host - Linda GoldfarbBesides hosting Your Best Writing Life, Linda Goldfarb isVisit Your Best Writing Life website.Join our Facebook group, Your Best Writing LifeYour host - Linda Goldfarb#1 Podcast in the "Top 50+ Must-Have Tools and Resources for Christian Writers in 2024". Awarded the Spark Media 2022 Most Binge-Worthy PodcastAwarded the Spark Media 2023 Fan Favorites Best Solo Podcast

Apr 25, 2023 • 39min
The Writer and Illustrator Collaboration Process with Jack Foster
What did you think of this episode?Thinking about hiring an illustrator for your children’s book? Tune in to learn more about the contract, expenses, and copyright process. My industry expert is Jack Foster. Jack is a follower of Jesus, the father of five, and the grandfather of fourteen. He has illustrated over 125 published picture books. He grew up in Chicago but now resides in Tennessee near the Smoky Mountains with his wife – the lovely Aleithia, and their two cats, Jasper and Stormy. Alright, let’s head into our content for today… The writer/illustrator collaboration A. Does a picture book author need to hire an illustrator? B. How did authors find you? And how do writers find an illustrator? C. What are the two best pieces of advice you can give an author once they have found an illustrator? D. In a standard author/illustrator contract, who retains the rights to the artwork? E. Why is it so expensive to hire an illustrator? LINKSJack FosterJack's Illustrator/Author Resource Jack Foster on FacebookJack Foster on TwitterJack Foster on Instagramhttps://www.scbwi.org/members-public/jack-foster https://www.freebibleimages.org/contributors/mrbiblehead/ If you enjoy Your Best Writing Life's content- consider a monthly donation through Patreon. Support Your Best Writing Life podcast.About your host - Linda GoldfarbBesides hosting Your Best Writing Life, Linda Goldfarb is a multi-published award-winning author, audiobook narrator, international speaker, board-certified Christian life coach, co-owner, co-founder of the LINKED® Personality System, and co-author of the LINKED® Quick Guide to Personality series. Linda also hosts the Staying REAL About Faith & Family podcast - Check it out!Visit Your Best Writing Life website.Join our Facebook group, Your Best Writing LifeYour host - Linda Goldfarb#1 Podcast in the "Top 50+ Must-Have Tools and Resources for Christian Writers in 2024". Awarded the Spark Media 2022 Most Binge-Worthy PodcastAwarded the Spark Media 2023 Fan Favorites Best Solo Podcast

Apr 18, 2023 • 53min
The Writer’s Personal Hero’s Journey with Andrew Jackson
What did you think of this episode?You’ve heard of the hero’s journey in story structure. Tune in to learn how the hero’s journey applies to our personal lives. Stick around for Part One Of the Hero’s Journey for Writers Welcome to Your Best Writing Life, an extension of the Blue Ridge Mountains Christian Writers Conference held in the beautiful Blue Ridge Mts of NC. I’m your host Linda Goldfarb. I’m so glad you’re listening in. Today– Part one in The Writer’s Personal Hero’s Journey - Overview of Hero’s Journey and Personal ApplicationMy industry expert is A.E. Jackson writes uncanny speculative fiction for your enjoyment. He believes there are malevolent forces, just below the surface, tugging us all down. He knows another force, more benevolent than we deserve, works to keep us buoyant. He reads Ray Bradbury, Shirley Jackson, Roald Dahl, Stephen King, Paulo Coelho, Richard Matheson, H.P. Lovecraft, and Richard Bach. He lives in Delaware and is married with two children.Andrew, welcome to Your Best Writing Life!We discuss:The Hero's Journey Story Structure in deep detail.Overview of how the Hero's Journey can apply to our personal life.LINKSA.E. (Andrew) JacksonGrab your Personal Hero's Journey PlanPsalm 37:4 Matthew 6:33 The Hero with A Thousand Faces by Joseph Campbell The Writer's Journey: Mythic Structure for Writers by Christopher Vogler Stealing Fire From The Gods by James Bonnet Man's Search for Meaning by Viktor Frankl Storyline: Finding Your Subplot in God's Story by Donald Miller The Dream Giver by Bruce Wilkinson If you enjoy Your Best Writing Life's content- consider a monthly donation through Patreon. Support Your Best Writing Life podcastVisit Your Best Writing Life website.Join our Facebook group, Your Best Writing LifeYour host - Linda Goldfarb#1 Podcast in the "Top 50+ Must-Have Tools and Resources for Christian Writers in 2024". Awarded the Spark Media 2022 Most Binge-Worthy PodcastAwarded the Spark Media 2023 Fan Favorites Best Solo Podcast

Apr 11, 2023 • 40min
The Process of Illustrating a Picture Book with Jack Foster
What did you think of this episode?Have you considered writing picture books? Linda's guest is a professional illustrator who’s prepared to give us the inside scoop on how the illustration process works. Welcome to Your Best Writing Life, an extension of the Blue Ridge Mountains Christian Writers Conference held in the beautiful Blue Ridge Mts of NC. I’m your host Linda Goldfarb, each week I bring you tips and strategies from experts in the writing and publishing industry to help you excel in your craft, I’m so glad you’re listening in, during this episode, you’ll learn A Professional’s Perspective on Illustrating a Picture Book.My industry expert is Jack Foster. Jack is a follower of Jesus, the father of five, and the grandfather of fourteen. He has illustrated over 125 published picture books. He grew up in Chicago but now resides in Tennessee near the Smoky Mountains with his wife, lovely Aleithia, and their two cats, Jasper and Stormy.Do you work traditionally or digitally, and what is the norm?What is the process of illustrating on full-page illustration?What is a Spot illustration?How long does it take to illustrate a picture book? Explain how you choose the colors for your illustrations and what inspires you.Is the text added by illustrators or by a designer?LINKSJack Foster Mr. Bobblehead BlogListener Giveaway - Coloring PagesSociety of Children's Book Writers and IllustratorsJack Foster FacebookJack Foster TwitterJack Foster Instagram Jack Foster - FreeBibleImagesIf you enjoy Your Best Writing Life's content- consider a monthly donation through Patreon. Support Your Best Writing Life podcast.About your host - Linda GoldfarbBesides hosting Your Best Writing Life, Linda Goldfarb is a multi-published award-winning author, audiobook narrator, international speaker, board-certified Christian life coach, co-owner, co-founder of the LINKED® Personality System, and Visit Your Best Writing Life website.Join our Facebook group, Your Best Writing LifeYour host - Linda Goldfarb#1 Podcast in the "Top 50+ Must-Have Tools and Resources for Christian Writers in 2024". Awarded the Spark Media 2022 Most Binge-Worthy PodcastAwarded the Spark Media 2023 Fan Favorites Best Solo Podcast

Apr 4, 2023 • 33min
Writing When the Unexpected Happens with Josie Siler
What did you think of this episode?How do you write when the unexpected happens? Linda Goldfarb and Josie Siler help you to keep writing through suffering and illness. Writers! Each week Linda Goldfarb brings you tips and strategies from experts in the writing and publishing industry to help you excel in your craft. We're so glad you’re listening in, during this episode, you’ll learn about Writing When the Unexpected Happens. Linda's industry expert is award-winning author Josie Siler - Josie’s passionate about helping people find joy in their journey. She shares God’s gifts of beauty, hope, and adventure with those who are overwhelmed by life’s circumstances, encouraging them to walk in the freedom found in Jesus. As a chronic illness warrior, she believes every day should be celebrated. In this episode, Linda and Josie discuss:1. How chronic illness affected Josie's desire to write.2. Does suffering keep you from writing? 3. What have you learned from writing through illness/suffering? 4. Josie shares tips for getting things done when you don’t feel well. Work in small bursts. Make lists of what I can do later. Write ideas, books, articles, and story ideas. Ask for prayer, for help. Come alongside others in their times of need. Do the hard work of resting. Create a Revolving to-do list. LINKSJosie SilerGet Howie's song!If you enjoy Your Best Writing Life's content- consider a monthly donation through Patreon. Support Your Best Writing Life podcast.About your host - Linda GoldfarbBesides hosting Your Best Writing Life, Linda Goldfarb is a multi-published award-winning author, audiobook narrator, international speaker, board-certified Christian life coach, co-owner, co-founder of the LINKED® Personality System, and co-author of the LINKED® Quick Guide to Personality series. Linda also hosts the Staying REAL About Faith & Family podcast - Check it out!Visit Your Best Writing Life website.Join our Facebook group, Your Best Writing LifeYour host - Linda Goldfarb#1 Podcast in the "Top 50+ Must-Have Tools and Resources for Christian Writers in 2024". Awarded the Spark Media 2022 Most Binge-Worthy PodcastAwarded the Spark Media 2023 Fan Favorites Best Solo Podcast

Mar 28, 2023 • 44min
How to Give and Receive Writing Critiques with Dr. Katherine Hayes
What did you think of this episode?Searching for someone to critique your writing project? Linda and Dr. Katherine Hayes give you top tips for giving and receiving critiques. Welcome to Your Best Writing Life, an extension of the Blue Ridge Mountains Christian Writers Conference held in the beautiful Blue Ridge Mts of NC. I’m your host Linda Goldfarb, each week I bring you tips and strategies from experts in the writing and publishing industry to help you excel in your craft.My industry expert is Dr. Katherine Hayes. Katherine is a freelance writer/content editor, artist, speaker, podcaster, and sensitivity reader. She’s a member of Word Weavers International and serves as an online chapter president and mentor. She belongs to FWA (Florida Writers Association), ACFW (American Christian Fiction Writers), CWoC (Crime Writers of Color), AWSA (Advanced Writers and Speakers Association), and AASA (American Association of School Administrators). She has authored a Christian Bible study for women and is working on the prequel to her first general-market thriller novel. 1) Why is it vital to have your work professionally and peer critiqued? 2) Why is it vital to be able to give others a well-rounded critique 3) Where are the best places to find professional editors? 4) Where are the best places to find quality peer critiques? 5) What are the basic components of a literary critique? LINKSDr. Katherine Hayes Tool Kit - Giving and Receiving Writing Critiques PDF *Special Gift Code for a limited time: LINDAROCKS23 (Expires 7/1/23) Go to www.drkatherinehayes.com and use your code to download your free mini e-book. All links mentioned in the show are in Katherine's Tool Kit download.Murder, Mystery, and Mayhem Laced with Morality PodcastIf you enjoy Your Best Writing Life's content- consider a monthly donation through Patreon. Support Your Best Writing Life podcastAbout your host - Linda GoldfarbBesides hosting Your Best Writing Life, Linda Goldfarb is a multi-published award-winnVisit Your Best Writing Life website.Join our Facebook group, Your Best Writing LifeYour host - Linda Goldfarb#1 Podcast in the "Top 50+ Must-Have Tools and Resources for Christian Writers in 2024". Awarded the Spark Media 2022 Most Binge-Worthy PodcastAwarded the Spark Media 2023 Fan Favorites Best Solo Podcast

Mar 21, 2023 • 45min
Moving From Page to Stage with Tammy Whitehurst
What did you think of this episode?Make the most out of your speaking engagements as a writer. Linda Goldfarb and Tammy Whitehurst share top tips to increase your speaking.Welcome to Your Best Writing Life, an extension of the Blue Ridge Mountains Christian Writers Conference held in the beautiful Blue Ridge Mts of NC. I’m your host Linda Goldfarb, each week I bring you tips and strategies from experts in the writing and publishing industry to help you excel in your craft, I’m so glad you’re listening in, during this episode you’ll learn Moving from Page to Stage Linda Goldfarb's industry expert is Tammy Whitehurst - Texas twang and southern slang! Tammy Whitehurst is a full-time speaker and co-director of the Christian Communicator’s Conference. She has been described as a HOOT with a capital H! Tammy is real. She also struggles like the rest of us with dust, dishes, cellulite, junk drawers, and wrinkles. If you get a chance to hear her speak, don’t hesitate – you will be blessed! Top tips for writers who desire to be speakers:Reduce Your Book to One WordDevelop Your Signature HookKnow Your AudienceDon't weigh success by audience sizePower of the PauseAudience InteractionDon't Misuse PowerPointPlus - how to get gigs when first starting out.LINKSFind Out More About Tammy Whitehurst Tammy's Daily DevotionalChristian Communicators Conference Tammy Whitehurst on YouTube Contact Tammy About Writing a Facebook DevotionalIf you enjoy Your Best Writing Life's content- consider a monthly donation through Patreon. Support Your Best Writing Life podcastAbout your host - Linda GoldfarbBesides hosting Your Best Writing Life, Linda Goldfarb is a multi-published award-winning author, audiobook narrator, international speaker, board-certified Christian life coach, co-owner, co-founder of the LINKED® Personality System, and co-author of the LINKED® Quick Guide to Personality series. Linda also hosts the Staying REAL About Faith & Family podcast - Check it out!Visit Your Best Writing Life website.Join our Facebook group, Your Best Writing LifeYour host - Linda Goldfarb#1 Podcast in the "Top 50+ Must-Have Tools and Resources for Christian Writers in 2024". Awarded the Spark Media 2022 Most Binge-Worthy PodcastAwarded the Spark Media 2023 Fan Favorites Best Solo Podcast

Mar 14, 2023 • 40min
5 Reasons Christian Writers Can Have Hope with Lori Hatcher
What did you think of this episode?Are you embracing the Hope you have as a Christian writer? Linda Goldfarb and Lori Hatcher provide five reasons why hope is available to you in abundance no matter what life throws at you. Welcome to Your Best Writing Life, an extension of the Blue Ridge Mountains Christian Writers Conference held in the beautiful Blue Ridge Mts of NC. I’m your host Linda Goldfarb, I’m so glad you’re listening in, during this episode, you’ll learn 5 Reasons Christian Writers Can Have Hope My guest, Lori Hatcher is a women’s ministry speaker, author, magazine editor, blogger, minister’s wife, and career healthcare professional. She shares an empty nest in Lexington, South Carolina with her husband, David, and her vast collection of books. Lori’s an award-winning Toastmasters International speaker and the author of six devotional books. She’s also a blogger, writing instructor, and inspirational speaker. She uses high-impact stories to create transformational messages. As the author of the blog, Hungry for God, Lori writes to help women connect with God in the craziness of life. Ever grateful for the kind people who have helped her along the way, she loves sharing her passion for writing, editing, and speaking at writers’ conferences and workshops. Today's episode covers: 1. God is sovereign (Ephesians 1:11). (Add links for NIV) 2. God’s plans can’t be thwarted (Job 42:2). 3. God’s Word never returns void. It always accomplishes God’s purposes (Isaiah 55:11). 4. God’s plan for your writing may look different from your plan, but because God is good, His plans are, too (Psalm 18:30). 5. God’s timing is always perfect (Galatians 4:4-5, Ephesians 1:9). LINKSLori HatcherLori's giveaway - 5 Reasons Christian Writers Can Have Hope downloadLori's latest book - Refresh Your Hope, 60 Reasons to Trust God with All Your HeartLori and David hatchers latest book: Moments with God for Couples - eBookIf you enjoy Your Best Writing Life's content- consider a monthly donation through Patreon. Support Your Best Writing Life podcastAbout your host - Linda GoldfarbBesides hosting Your Best Writing Life, LindaVisit Your Best Writing Life website.Join our Facebook group, Your Best Writing LifeYour host - Linda Goldfarb#1 Podcast in the "Top 50+ Must-Have Tools and Resources for Christian Writers in 2024". Awarded the Spark Media 2022 Most Binge-Worthy PodcastAwarded the Spark Media 2023 Fan Favorites Best Solo Podcast

Mar 7, 2023 • 41min
Amazon Strategies for Advanced Writers with Vincent B. Davis II
What did you think of this episode?Ready to maximize Amazon for sales? Linda Goldfarb and Amazon marketing expert Vincent B. Davis II share what you need to know as a multibook author.Linda Goldfarb's industry expert is Vincent B. Davis II. Vincent is an author, entrepreneur, and veteran. He is a graduate of East Tennessee State University and has served in the United States Army since 2014. He's the author of eight books, four of which have become international bestsellers. When he's not researching or writing his next book, you can find him watching Carolina Panthers football or playing with his rescued mutt, Buddy.The questions Linda and Vincent cover in today's episode are:1. How to optimize your front and back matter.2. Getting beyond Option Paralysis3. Number one way to sell more books R & R4. The statistical benefit of writing more books.5. Tools outside Amazon to augment Amazon sales.6. Traffic + Conversion = $$$LINKSVincent B. Davis IIAmazon Strategies for Advanced Writers PDF downloadPickfu.com Ask Vincent about coaching - include YBWL in the subject line and request $100 off. email vincent@warriorbookmarketing.com If you enjoy Your Best Writing Life's content- consider a monthly donation through Patreon. Support Your Best Writing Life podcastAbout your host - Linda GoldfarbBesides hosting Your Best Writing Life, Linda Goldfarb is a multi-published award-winning author, audiobook narrator, international speaker, board-certified Christian life coach, co-owner, co-founder of the LINKED® Personality System, and co-author of the LINKED® Quick Guide to Personality series. Linda also hosts the Staying REAL About Faith & Family podcast - Check it out!Visit Your Best Writing Life website.Join our Facebook group, Your Best Writing LifeYour host - Linda Goldfarb#1 Podcast in the "Top 50+ Must-Have Tools and Resources for Christian Writers in 2024". Awarded the Spark Media 2022 Most Binge-Worthy PodcastAwarded the Spark Media 2023 Fan Favorites Best Solo Podcast


