Home Row: Just Keep Writing

J.A. Medders
  • 4.8 (65)
  • CHRISTIANITY

J.A. Medders interviews authors on writing, books, and more. Learn about writing, get inspired to write, and of course, just keep writing.

  1. Scarlet Hiltibidal on Writing and Hopeful-Ish

    10/01/2025

    Scarlet Hiltibidal on Writing and Hopeful-Ish

    Jeff Medders reconnects with Scarlet Hiltibidal to discuss her latest book, 'Hopefulish.' They explore the themes of faith, humor, and the writing process, delving into Scarlet's personal experiences with loss and hope. The discussion highlights the importance of community, the challenges of writing, and the need for authenticity in sharing one's journey. Scarltt shares her unique stories, including a humorous yet poignant tale about donkey attacks, and offers insights into the writing process, encouraging aspiring writers to embrace their craft and trust in God's plan. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Welcome03:57 Scarlett's Writing Journey and New Book08:52 Reconciling Faith with Overwhelming Feelings16:06 The Donkey Attack Story21:17 Navigating Authenticity in Writing28:07 The Journey to Becoming a Published Author31:22 The Reality of Writing Routines35:09 Finding Time to Write44:11 Tools of the Trade46:01 Rapid Fire Questions and Final Thoughts

    54 min
  2. Jimmy Needham on Writing Songs and Kids' Books

    09/23/2025

    Jimmy Needham on Writing Songs and Kids' Books

    Jeff Medders and Jimmy Needham explore songwriting, writing for children, and the creative process. They discuss the importance of storytelling, the challenges of writing, and the joy of creating meaningful content for kids. Jimmy shares insights from his journey as a musician and author, emphasizing the need for brevity and clarity in writing, especially for children's literature. The discussion also touches on the significance of playfulness in the writing process and how it can enhance creativity. Both of Jimmy's Books at WTSSing! Hymnal at WTS Books. Use code MEDDERS for 5% off. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Background03:00 The Journey of Songwriting05:59 Writing for Kids and Podcasting08:31 The Art of Prose and Poetry11:50 Lessons from Songwriting for Prose Writers22:58 Exploring the Psalms: A Journey of Experience24:33 The Passion Behind Writing Children's Books25:31 Discipleship Through Storytelling: Real Bad Guys28:04 The Quest for the Best: A Journey of Satisfaction30:58 The Writing Process: From Index Cards to Books38:07 Lightning Round: Insights and Recommendations

    45 min
  3. Jim Hamilton on Writing

    09/15/2025

    Jim Hamilton on Writing

    Dr. Jim Hamilton shares his journey as a biblical scholar and writer, discussing the importance of gratitude, mentorship, and early influences that shaped his career. He delves into his academic work, including his dissertation and subsequent publications, emphasizing the core message of biblical theology, which centers on God's glory and salvation through judgment. Dr. Hamilton also highlights his latest book on the literary structure of the Gospel of John, offering insights into the art of writing and the balance between academic and pastoral responsibilities. He provides valuable advice for aspiring writers, encouraging perseverance and the cultivation of a rich intellectual life. Get Hamilton's new book: In the Beginning Was the Word: Finding Meaning in the Literary Structure of the Gospel of John. Buy at WTSBooks and use code: MEDDERS, and get 5% off your purchase.Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Gratitude02:42 Writing Journey and Early Influences05:45 First Publications and Academic Contributions08:48 The Core Message of Biblical Theology11:43 Recent Works and Literary Structure of John's Gospel14:32 The Genius of Biblical Authors17:39 Approaches to Writing and Commentary20:42 Balancing Writing with Life Responsibilities23:27 Setting Writing Goals and Expectations27:41 Writing Habits and Routines32:15 The Art of Structuring Content38:48 Perseverance in Writing and Publishing41:03 Rapid Fire Questions

    48 min
  4. Mitch Chase and Writing Routines and Rhythms

    09/08/2025

    Mitch Chase and Writing Routines and Rhythms

    In this engaging conversation, Jeff Medders and Mitch Chase explore the intricacies of writing, the publishing process, and the balance between pastoral duties and creative endeavors. Mitch shares insights into his writing journey, the importance of passion in his projects, and how he manages his time effectively. They discuss the significance of morning writing sessions, the role of inspiration, and the rituals that accompany Mitch's writing process, including his coffee preferences. The episode concludes with a lightning round of questions that reveal Mitch's thoughts on writing habits and influences. https://mitchchase.substack.com/ Check out all of Mitch's books 00:00 Introduction to Mitch Chase and His Work02:43 The Publishing Process and Timeframes07:46 Passion-Driven Writing13:18 Writing Rhythms and Routines18:27 Techniques for Effective Writing Sessions24:12 Coffee Rituals and Writing Habits28:37 Influential Writers and Their Impact31:27 Lightning Round

    37 min
  5. Amanda Bible Williams and The Bible is For You

    09/01/2025

    Amanda Bible Williams and The Bible is For You

    In this episode, Jeff Medders interviews Amanda Bible Williams, co-founder of She Reads Truth, discussing her journey as a writer, the mission of She Reads Truth, and the release of her new book, 'The Bible is for You.' Amanda shares insights on the importance of community in Bible reading, her writing process, and the unique aspects of her new devotional book that aims to make Scripture accessible to everyone. The conversation also touches on the challenges of writing, the significance of prayer, and the beauty of good design in publishing. BUY ON AMAZON00:00 Introduction to Amanda Bible Williams02:54 The Mission of She Reads Truth05:57 The Journey to Becoming a Writer11:44 The Launch of 'The Bible is for You'21:01 Unique Features of the New Devotional29:44 The Writing Process and Environment31:53 Creating a Productive Writing Environment39:34 Finding Rhythm in Writing46:31 The Art of Devotional Writing48:47 Rapid Fire55:08 Dependence on God in Writing

    57 min
  6. Sean DeMars on Writing

    08/25/2025

    Sean DeMars on Writing

    In this episode of Home Row, host Jeff Medders welcomes Sean DeMars, a pastor and author, to discuss his journey in podcasting, writing, and church revitalization. They explore Sean's experiences as a missionary in Peru, the inception of his podcast 'Room for Nuance', and his latest books, including 'Redemption Song'. The conversation delves into the writing process, the importance of being grounded in a local church, and the challenges and joys of writing for a Christian audience. Sean shares insights on how to approach writing with purpose and the significance of prayer in the creative process. 00:00 Intro02:41 The Journey of Sean DeMars05:56 New Book: Redemption Song09:02 Writing Journey and Early Works11:51 Rebel to Your Will15:39 The Process of Writing Redemption Song31:05 The Writing Process: Rituals and Inspirations36:14 Embracing the Identity of a Writer40:16 Finding the Right Environment for Writing42:55 Balancing Pastoral Duties and Writing 46:06 Rapid Fire Questions: Insights into Writing Preferences55:06 The Importance of Prayer in Writing

    1h 1m
  7. Glenna Marshall on Writing, Psalm 139, and Loving Scripture

    08/18/2025

    Glenna Marshall on Writing, Psalm 139, and Loving Scripture

    In this episode of Home Row, Jeff Medders welcomes writer Glenna Marshall to discuss her journey as a writer, her latest book 'Known and Loved', and the importance of God's love as expressed in Psalm 139. They explore the writing process, the challenges of balancing writing with publicity, and the significance of imprecatory prayers. Glenna shares her insights on how to engage with Scripture and the transformative power of God's love, emphasizing the need for writers to serve their readers and glorify God through their work. Glenna's New Book Jeff's Amazon Author Page Chapters 00:00 Welcome Back to Home Row02:40 The Journey to Becoming a Writer05:59 The Writing Process and Life as an Author15:47 Exploring Psalm 139 and God's Love23:57 Surprises in Writing and Understanding God's Affection28:48 Understanding Psalm 139: Comfort in God's Presence30:18 The Journey of Writing: Balancing Projects31:32 Navigating the Challenges of Multiple Book Contracts34:29 The Role of Deadlines in Writing39:56 Writing for the Kingdom: Purpose and Passion42:25 The Subtext of Writing: Encouraging Love for Scripture46:17 Rapid Fire Questions: Insights into the Writer's Life Takeaways Glenna Marshall emphasizes the importance of journaling for writers.The writing process can be messy and unglamorous, often taking place in everyday settings.Writing is a tool for serving the church and helping others know God's love.Imprecatory prayers can be understood through the lens of God's love and justice.Glenna's writing aims to make readers love God's Word and understand His affection for them.The balance between writing and publicity can be challenging for authors.Glenna's writing journey began with journaling as a child and evolved into blogging and book writing.The significance of Psalm 139 is highlighted as a declaration of God's delight in His people.Writers should focus on their purpose and the impact they want to have on their readers.Every writer has a subtext that influences their work.

    52 min
  8. Matt Smethurst on Writing and Tim Keller

    08/11/2025

    Matt Smethurst on Writing and Tim Keller

    In this revival episode of Home Row, host Jeff Medders welcomes back Matt Smethurst to discuss his new book, 'Tim Keller on the Christian Life.' They explore Keller's legacy, the writing process, and the lessons learned from his work. The conversation delves into the importance of clarity in writing, the organization of research, and the personal transformation experienced through Keller's teachings. The episode concludes with rapid-fire questions that reveal insights into writing habits and preferences. 00:00 Welcome Back and Introduction 03:00 Exploring Tim Keller's Impact 05:17 The Writing Process and Lessons from Keller 08:33 Behind the Scenes of Writing the Book 11:13 Research and Organization Techniques 17:20 Influences and Inspiration 31:24 Keller's Books and Recommendations 39:21 Personal Transformation through Keller's Teachings 43:18 Rapid Fire Questions and Closing Thoughts Takeaways Keller's writing is characterized by clarity and relevance.The importance of life experience in writing.Writing should serve the reader, not the writer's ego.Keller's books address timeless topics that resonate across generations.The writing process can be overwhelming but manageable when broken down.Research and organization are key to effective writing.Imagery and illustrations enhance the reader's experience.Keller's teachings remind us of the simplicity of the Christian life.Every writer should strive for beautiful clarity in their work.Personal transformation often comes from engaging deeply with Scripture.

    48 min
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4.8
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65 Ratings

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J.A. Medders interviews authors on writing, books, and more. Learn about writing, get inspired to write, and of course, just keep writing.

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