The Purposeful Pen - Clarity for Christian Writers

Build a Writing Life with Eternal Impact
  • 5.0 (9)
  • BOOKS
  • UPDATED WEEKLY

Are you a Christian writer who is trying to figure out your next steps in communicating the message God has given you? Or maybe you love to write, but you aren't sure what exactly is the message you have to offer others or who needs to hear what you have to say. In this podcast for Christian writers, you'll hear a mix of practical help and Biblical truth to help you build a writing life with eternal impact. amylynnsimon.substack.com

  1. Episode 136: 5 Questions to Help Writers Choose the Right Platform Strategy

    MAR 24

    Episode 136: 5 Questions to Help Writers Choose the Right Platform Strategy

    After exploring multiple ways to grow your platform, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed by all the options. In this episode, we’re simplifying the process and helping you discern your next right step. Instead of trying to do everything, you’ll learn how to choose one platform strategy that fits your current season, strengths, and capacity—so you can move forward with clarity and consistency. What You’ll Learn in This Episode: Over the past several episodes, we’ve covered a variety of platform-building strategies, including: * Public speaking * Podcasting * Guest blogging and podcast interviews * YouTube * Collaborations and giveaways * The YouVersion app But here’s the truth: you can’t do all of them—and you shouldn’t try to. In this episode, we walk through five key questions to help you confidently choose the best platform strategy for you. 5 Questions to Help You Choose Your Next Step: 1. What is your current capacity?Consider your time, energy, and emotional bandwidth. Your season of life matters more than you think. 2. What are you already doing?It’s often easier (and wiser) to build on something you’ve already started rather than creating something brand new. 3. What are your strengths?Lean into what comes naturally—whether that’s teaching, storytelling, or connecting with others. 4. What sounds interesting and fun?Pay attention to what energizes you. Excitement can be a strong indicator of where God is leading. 5. What can you be consistent with?Consistency matters more than frequency. Choose a rhythm you can realistically sustain. Key Takeaway: It’s far more effective to focus on one strategy done well and consistently than to try several strategies sporadically and burn out. Season Wrap-Up: This episode wraps up the current season of the podcast. We’ll be taking a break in April to rest, plan, and prepare for what’s next. 🎙️ The podcast returns in May, where we’ll dive into what needs to happen before you start writing your book. Resources: From Stuck to Steady: The 5 Pillars of a Consistent Writing Rhythm for Christian Writers (free 30-minute recorded workshop) Schedule a free discovery call to see how coaching can help you get unstuck. Sign up for Pen Points, a weekly email to encourage you in your writing. Watch the podcast on YouTube. Read the blog version of the podcast. Download the “Christian Writer’s Mindset Makeover”. The Purposeful Pen is a weekly podcast for Christian writers designed to help you build a writing life with eternal impact. Each week you’ll hear practical tips and Biblical truth on topics such as improving your writing, honing your message, and managing your time. I always respond to listener emails and I’d love to hear from you! Amysimon@amylynnsimon.com This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit amylynnsimon.substack.com

    6 min
  2. Episode 135: Building Your Platform as a First-Time Author with Cara Ray

    MAR 17

    Episode 135: Building Your Platform as a First-Time Author with Cara Ray

    In this week’s episode, I talk with Cara Ray, who has recently published her first book, “The Pursuit of Holy Leisure: Enjoying God in Everyday Places”. We talk about the different ways that she grew her platform, including through publishing Bible reading plans on the YouVersion Bible app. She also shared about her publishing journey and what that looked like as a first time author without having the huge platform numbers that some publishers are looking for. Cara Ray is a writer, Bible teacher, and founder of The Writers’ Bloc community and podcast. As a former quiet time checkbox checker, she now writes to help others slow down, savor Scripture, and pursue holy leisure. Her work has been featured on Desiring God, Challies.com, Gospel Centered Discipleship, and the YouVersion Bible App. Cara’s online community, The Writers’ Bloc, equips women to grow in the art and heart of writing. Her weekly podcast by the same name features conversations with Christian writers who desire to encourage others in the craft of writing and write for God’s glory. She also owns and operates her own copywriting and marketing business, where she helps entrepreneurs and creatives communicate their message with clarity and conviction. Cara lives in Gilbert, Arizona, with her husband, four kids, and two obnoxious dogs. Resources: From Stuck to Steady: The 5 Pillars of a Consistent Writing Rhythm for Christian Writers (free 30-minute recorded workshop) Schedule a free discovery call to see how coaching can help you get unstuck. Sign up for Pen Points, a weekly email to encourage you in your writing. Watch the podcast on YouTube. The Purposeful Pen is a weekly podcast for Christian writers designed to help you build a writing life with eternal impact. Each week you’ll hear practical tips and Biblical truth on topics such as improving your writing, honing your message, and managing your time. I always respond to listener emails and I’d love to hear from you! Amysimon@amylynnsimon.com This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit amylynnsimon.substack.com

    35 min
  3. Episode 134: When Platform Numbers Mess With Your Heart: 3 Truths Christian Writers Need to Remember

    MAR 10

    Episode 134: When Platform Numbers Mess With Your Heart: 3 Truths Christian Writers Need to Remember

    Platform growth can easily become all about numbers, such as followers, subscribers, downloads. But as Christian writers, our worth isn’t measured by metrics. In this episode, we talk about how to pursue growth without being defined by it, how to focus on the people behind the numbers, and how to stay faithful while leaving the results to God. If you’ve been discouraged by slow growth or tempted to compare your journey to someone else’s, this conversation will help refocus your heart where it belongs. Resources: * From Stuck to Steady: The 5 Pillars of a Consistent Writing Rhythm for Christian Writers (free 30-minute recorded workshop) * Schedule a free discovery call to see how coaching can help you get unstuck. * Sign up for Pen Points, a weekly email to encourage you in your writing. * Watch the podcast on YouTube. * Read the blog version of the podcast. * Download the “Christian Writer’s Mindset Makeover”. The Purposeful Pen is a weekly podcast for Christian writers designed to help you build a writing life with eternal impact. Each week you’ll hear practical tips and Biblical truth on topics such as improving your writing, honing your message, and managing your time. I always respond to listener emails and I’d love to hear from you! Amysimon@amylynnsimon.com This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit amylynnsimon.substack.com

    6 min
  4. Episode 133: Collaborations & Giveaways: Simple Ways to Grow Your Audience

    MAR 3

    Episode 133: Collaborations & Giveaways: Simple Ways to Grow Your Audience

    In this episode, we’re talking about two practical strategies to grow your audience: collaborations and giveaways. Collaborations There are several ways to collaborate with someone who serves a similar audience: * Trade lead magnets and share each other’s free resources * Create something together (like a devotional, challenge, or workshop) and promote it to both audiences * Participate in or host an online summit for expanded reach The key is finding someone with overlapping—but not competing—messages so you both serve your audiences well. Giveaways Giveaways can also help grow your platform when done strategically. * Solo giveaways: Offer a signed book or a resource related to your message. Encourage people to subscribe, like, comment, or share to enter—and be sure to include your current subscribers. * Group giveaways: Partner with others to offer a larger prize and expand your reach. Tools like King Sumo can help manage entries. Remember: growth isn’t just about numbers—it’s about attracting the right people who genuinely connect with your message. If this feels overwhelming, don’t worry. You don’t have to do everything. In an upcoming episode, we’ll talk about how to discern which strategies are the best fit for you. Resources: Schedule a free discovery call to see how coaching can help you get unstuck. Sign up for Pen Points, a weekly email to encourage you in your writing. Watch the podcast on YouTube. Read the blog version of the podcast. Download the “Christian Writer’s Mindset Makeover”. The Purposeful Pen is a weekly podcast for Christian writers designed to help you build a writing life with eternal impact. Each week you’ll hear practical tips and Biblical truth on topics such as improving your writing, honing your message, and managing your time. I always respond to listener emails and I’d love to hear from you! Amysimon@amylynnsimon.com This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit amylynnsimon.substack.com

    5 min
  5. Episode 132: Growing Your Platform Through YouTube with Rose Jordan

    FEB 24

    Episode 132: Growing Your Platform Through YouTube with Rose Jordan

    YouTube is yet another way to grow your online writing platform. It gives your audience a chance to see you and get to know you better. You can also take advantage of opportunities for new people to find your content without getting lost in algorithms and scrolling. About Rose: Rose McCombs Jordan is a devotional-life mentor, podcast host, YouTube creator, and the founder of Beneath The Fig Tree, a ministry dedicated to helping women cultivate an authentic and meaningful devotional life. Through her podcast, YouTube channel, workshops, and creative resources, Rose equips women with practical tools to deepen their relationship with God in ways that feel personal, sustainable, and life-giving. As the host of the Beneath The Fig Tree podcast and creator of its companion YouTube channel, Rose has intentionally leveraged video content to expand her reach as an author and teacher, strengthen audience connection, and build a values-driven platform. She is passionate about helping writers think beyond traditional methods and use YouTube strategically to grow visibility, serve their audience, and create lasting impact. Links to Stay In Touch Website: www.BeneathTheFigTree.org YouTube/Podcast/Instagram: Beneath The Fig Tree Facebook Group: Beneath the Fig Tree: FIGS Community Amy’s Resources: Schedule a free discovery call to see how coaching can help you get unstuck. Sign up for Pen Points, a weekly email to encourage you in your writing. Watch the podcast on YouTube. Download the “Christian Writer’s Mindset Makeover”. The Purposeful Pen is a weekly podcast for Christian writers designed to help you build a writing life with eternal impact. Each week you’ll hear practical tips and Biblical truth on topics such as improving your writing, honing your message, and managing your time. I always respond to listener emails and I’d love to hear from you! Amysimon@amylynnsimon.com This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit amylynnsimon.substack.com

    34 min
  6. Episode 131: Borrowing an Audience to Grow Your Platform

    FEB 17

    Episode 131: Borrowing an Audience to Grow Your Platform

    Looking for ways to grow your platform without adding another major project to your plate? This week, we’re talking about two strategic options: becoming a podcast guest and writing articles for other blogs or websites. These opportunities allow you to step in front of an established audience and share your message in a way that benefits both you and the host. But how do you find the right fit? What makes a strong pitch? And how can you make the most of the opportunity once you land it? In this episode, you’ll learn: * Why guest appearances and guest posts can be powerful growth tools * How to identify podcasts and websites that align with your message * What to consider before sending a pitch * Encouragement for overcoming the fear of putting yourself out there * Simple ways to turn exposure into lasting connections If you’re ready to expand your reach and connect with new readers—without starting something brand new—this episode will give you practical next steps to get started. For more on the specifics of being a podcast guest, listen to episode 87. The Purposeful Pen is a weekly podcast for Christian writers designed to help you build a writing life with eternal impact. Each week you’ll hear practical tips and Biblical truth on topics such as improving your writing, honing your message, and managing your time. I always respond to listener emails and I’d love to hear from you! Amysimon@amylynnsimon.com This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit amylynnsimon.substack.com

    5 min
  7. Episode 130: Why Writers Should Consider Podcasting to Grow Their Audience

    FEB 10

    Episode 130: Why Writers Should Consider Podcasting to Grow Their Audience

    Podcasting can be a powerful way to grow your audience—without travel, booking agents, or a big production budget. In this episode, we explore podcasting as an alternative (or complement) to public speaking, especially for writers and creators who want to share their message in a more personal, accessible way. We’ll talk about why podcasting works, how it helps your audience connect with you beyond the written word, and what kinds of episodes you can create. I also share practical lessons I’ve learned along the way—from keeping episodes short, to finding a sustainable rhythm, to using podcast episodes as long-term resources for your audience. If you’ve ever wondered whether starting a podcast could help you serve your audience and grow your platform, this episode will help you think it through with clarity and confidence. The Purposeful Pen is a weekly podcast for Christian writers designed to help you build a writing life with eternal impact. Each week you’ll hear practical tips and Biblical truth on topics such as improving your writing, honing your message, and managing your time. I always respond to listener emails and I’d love to hear from you! Amysimon@amylynnsimon.com This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit amylynnsimon.substack.com

    7 min
  8. Episode 129: Using Public Speaking to Grow Your Platform as a Christian Writer

    FEB 3

    Episode 129: Using Public Speaking to Grow Your Platform as a Christian Writer

    Public speaking is one of the most effective ways to grow your platform—whether or not you use social media. When you speak, your audience doesn’t just read your words; they hear your voice, connect with you personally, and begin to trust you. In this episode, we explore why public speaking works so well, how it helps you refine your message, and how it allows you to gather instant feedback from your audience. We also talk about simple ways to stay connected after your talk by collecting email addresses and why speaking can grow your email list faster than most lead magnets. You’ll hear practical ideas for getting started with speaking, where to find opportunities (especially within churches and small groups), and what ministry leaders look for when booking speakers. Most importantly, we discuss why clarity about who you’re speaking to—and what need you’re addressing—matters more than trying to speak to everyone. The Purposeful Pen is a weekly podcast for Christian writers designed to help you build a writing life with eternal impact. Each week you’ll hear practical tips and Biblical truth on topics such as improving your writing, honing your message, and managing your time. I always respond to listener emails and I’d love to hear from you! Amysimon@amylynnsimon.com This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit amylynnsimon.substack.com

    7 min
See All (137)

5
out of 5
9 Ratings

About

Are you a Christian writer who is trying to figure out your next steps in communicating the message God has given you? Or maybe you love to write, but you aren't sure what exactly is the message you have to offer others or who needs to hear what you have to say. In this podcast for Christian writers, you'll hear a mix of practical help and Biblical truth to help you build a writing life with eternal impact. amylynnsimon.substack.com

Information

You Might Also Like