Ink and Impact for Christian Writers | How to Write a Book, Self-Publish, Christian Book, Book Marketing, Nonfiction Book

Dalene Bickel - Publisher, Book Coach, Ghostwriter
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Confused about how to write a book?Struggling to find time to write?Ready to learn a step-by-step process to self-publish like a pro? Welcome to Ink and Impact, the podcast for Christian writers who want to self-publish their first nonfiction book. I’m your host, Dalene Bickel – a Jesus-loving book coach and founder of Lasting Legacies Publishing.  I’ve worked in the self-publishing industry for 29 years and I’ve written and published more than a dozen nonfiction books for clients (and myself). What started out as a way to help retirees privately publish their life stories expanded in 2021 when the Lord called me to serve Christian writers.  I believe the Lord is calling Christian writers just like you – writers of all ages, races, and nationalities. Writers who are willing to create quality nonfiction books that offer the light, hope, and truth of Christ to a weary and waiting world.  Books that make a true impact on the world and leave a lasting legacy. Maybe that resonates with you. Maybe you feel led to write a faith-based business or how-to book, memoir, devotional, or Bible study.  But as a busy business owner, parent of littles, family caregiver (or a combo of all three), your dream of becoming an author might seem out of reach right now. The reality is that God has given you a message to share right now for a reason. Here on the podcast, I’ll help you develop a publishing plan, write your manuscript, self-publish your book, and sell more copies no matter how much - or little- time you have. Join me here each week as I bring you rotating content full of practical information and tangible tips as well as occasional interviews and industry insights, all from a Biblical perspective.  Get  ready to:  Replace distraction with productive action,Learn a clear step-by-step process, andCommunicate your message in a way that attracts readers. Fire up your computer and brew an extra pot of coffee, friend. It’s time to write your book and make an impact! NEXT STEPS: Subscribe so you don’t miss an episode! Schedule a 1:1 Coaching Callhttps://lastinglegacies.as.me/?appointmentType=39640667Join the Publish Like a Pro Community www.facebook.com/groups/publishpro/Visit the Website https://dalenebickel.com/ink-and-impact/Email me:  info@inkandimpact.com

  1. 2d ago

    Ep. 165 | Sharing the Goodness of God Through Your Story with Andy Robinson

    In this episode of the Ink and Impact Podcast, host Dalene Bickel sits down with Andy Robinson, a pastor from just south of London, England, and first-time author of The Big C in Me: Life, Hope and Faith on the Road Through Cancer.  Diagnosed with stage four terminal cancer in January 2023, Andy shares how a devastating prognosis launched him into the deepest questions of faith, purpose, and mortality — and ultimately into writing a memoir that's about far more than illness. The conversation also dives into: How Andy balanced chemotherapy, pastoral leadership, and fatherhood while writing his first book.Writing breakthroughs that happened far from home.The distinction between honesty and full disclosure when sharing a health journey publicly.This candid, faith-filled conversation offers practical encouragement not just for those facing cancer, but for anyone processing grief, mortality, or a calling interrupted — and for writers wondering how to actually finish the book they've been meaning to write. RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE WayMaker - Andy Robinson's UK-based Christian charity with a global heart, with a particular focus on Africa and Eastern Europe.  The Big C in Me - Andy Robinson's book about Life, Hope, and Faith on the Road Through Cancer 1:1 Book Coaching with Dalene Send us Fan Mail Join my new free Publish with Purpose Substack community for industry updates, live Q&A sessions, and to connect with fellow Christian writers!

  2. Jul 30

    Ep. 164 | Building a Vision-Driven Brand in Today's Christian Marketplace with Dr. Dave Jones

    On this episode of the Ink and Impact podcast, host Dalene interviews guest Dr. Dave Jones, a former Air Force member and professional hockey player turned founder of the Christian advertising agency M Is Good.  Dave shares how losing his hockey identity led him to faith-driven mentorship and eventually launching his agency.  Dave advises authors to ground vision in a healthy identity in Christ rather than performance, manage toxic motivators, build community, and market by making your content resonate quickly. Resources Mentioned in This Episode: Dave's Marketing Agency: M Is Good  Dave's New Book:  Plan to Win: How to Manage Your Fear, Lust, Anger Pride While Building Your Christian Organization Dave's Free Assessment: Plan to Win Today Connect with Dalene: Step 1: Join the Publish with Purpose Substack community Step 2: Get more personalized support through 1:1 book coaching at www.dalenebickel.com/bookworthy-coaching  Send us Fan Mail Join my new free Publish with Purpose Substack community for industry updates, live Q&A sessions, and to connect with fellow Christian writers!

  3. Jul 2

    Ep. 163 | The 5 Pillars of Author Productivity

    In this episode of the Ink and Impact Podcast, Christian book coach Dalene Bickel speaks directly to the authors who are doing all the things, trying all the tools, and running themselves ragged — yet still not seeing the results they had hoped for. Using a relatable and vivid analogy, Dalene reframes what it really means to be a productive author and shares five key pillars every Christian writer should focus on to cut through the noise, reclaim their time, and move forward with purpose. If you've ever felt overwhelmed, scattered, or ready to throw in the towel on your writing journey, this episode is for you. Tune in and discover how to work smarter, not harder, on the path to writing and publishing a book that truly makes an impact! RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE Mr. Frumble's Coffee Shop Disaster by Richard Scarry — a children's picture book referenced as an illustration of one person trying to do everything at once.  dalenebickel.com/coaching — link to schedule a one-on-one coaching session with Dalene. The following session types are available:  Standout Sessions — focused on marketing effortsBook Mapping Sessions — help with outlining, manuscript organization, and getting started with writingPublishing Process Sessions — designed for first-time self-publishing authors who need a publishing plan  Send us Fan Mail Join my new free Publish with Purpose Substack community for industry updates, live Q&A sessions, and to connect with fellow Christian writers!

  4. Jun 18

    Ep. 162 | 3 Questions Every Christian Author Should Be Ready to Answer

    In this episode of the Ink and Impact Podcast, Christian book coach Dalene Bickel reveals three essential questions every Christian author needs to be able to answer before writing or self-publishing their nonfiction book.  From clarifying your book's purpose to examining your deeper motivations as a writer, this episode challenges you to think differently about your author journey.  If you're working on a manuscript, preparing to self-publish, or considering a second edition, you won't want to miss these practical and faith-filled insights.  Resources mentioned in this episode:  Publish With Purpose Substack community — Dalene's new community where she shares industry updates and hosts live Q&A sessions.Dalene Bickel's personal Substack feed — for following Dalene individually on Substack.dalenebickel.com/coaching — link to schedule a one-on-one book coaching session with Dalene.The One Year Collection of Weekly Writing Prompts: Write Your Life Story One Question at a Time — Dalene's own book, written to help you write your life story. Send us Fan Mail Join my new free Publish with Purpose Substack community for industry updates, live Q&A sessions, and to connect with fellow Christian writers!

  5. May 21

    Ep. 161 | Traditional Publishing Myths Debunked: How First-Time Authors Can Land a Book Deal with Terry Whalin

    In this episode of the Ink and Impact Podcast, host Dalene Bickel sits down with publishing veteran Terry Whalin — editor, author, and acquisitions editor at Morgan James Publishing — for an eye-opening conversation about the traditional publishing world.  Terry pulls back the curtain on some of the biggest myths and misconceptions that hold authors back, while sharing insider strategies that could completely change the way you approach your publishing journey.  If you've ever wondered whether traditional publishing is within your reach, this episode is a must-listen that just might surprise you!  Resources Mentioned in This Episode: 10 Publishing Myths: Insights Every Author Needs to Succeed by Terry Whalin — available for $10 (including shipping) with over $200 worth of free bonuses.  Book Proposals That Sell: 21 Secrets to Speed Your Success by Terry Whalin — available as a free e-book. The 11th Myth (bonus chapter) — available for free. Click here to learn more about Dalene's book coaching. Connect with Dalene: Contact - > info@inkandimpact.com Podcast -＞Ink and Impact Substack -＞ Publish with Purpose FB/IG/LI -＞@dalenebickel Work with Dalene: Get personalized support through 1:1 book coaching at www.dalenebickel.com/bookworthy-coaching  Send us Fan Mail Join my new free Publish with Purpose Substack community for industry updates, live Q&A sessions, and to connect with fellow Christian writers!

  6. May 7

    Ep. 160 | Is This What's Holding You Back? How to Become the Author God Called You to Be

    Are you a Christian author who feels stuck, stalled, or held back from sharing the message God placed on your heart?  In this episode, we uncover the surprising truth behind what is really keeping faith-based writers from finishing and publishing their books — and it may not be what you think.  Drawing from a powerful passage in 2 Corinthians, this episode delivers a convicting and encouraging word that could be the turning point in your writing journey.  Tune in and discover what God has to say about your calling as an author!  Click here to learn more about Dalene's book coaching. Connect with Dalene: Contact - > info@inkandimpact.com Podcast -＞Ink and Impact Substack -＞ Publish with Purpose FB/IG/LI -＞@dalenebickel Work with Dalene: Get personalized support through 1:1 book coaching at www.dalenebickel.com/bookworthy-coaching  Send us Fan Mail Join my new free Publish with Purpose Substack community for industry updates, live Q&A sessions, and to connect with fellow Christian writers!

  7. Apr 30

    Ep. 159 | The Wealth Compass for Authors with David Nassief - How to Steward Your Message and Your Money Well

    Money isn't spoken about much in writing circles, which is why I invited David Nassief on to be my guest.  Not only does he share his own inspiring financial journey in this episode, but he also shares how you can steward both your money and your message well. No matter how much money is in your bank account, you'll benefit from the valuable information David shares. Be sure to listen in and don't forget to download his free gift to you: The One-Page Wealth Compass PDF Want to order the book as well? Click here to purchase on Amazon. Connect with Dalene: Contact - > info@inkandimpact.com Podcast -＞Ink and Impact Substack -＞ Publish with Purpose FB/IG/LI -＞@dalenebickel Work with Dalene: Get personalized support through 1:1 book coaching at www.dalenebickel.com/bookworthy-coaching  What additional topics would you like to learn about?  Send us Fan Mail Join my new free Publish with Purpose Substack community for industry updates, live Q&A sessions, and to connect with fellow Christian writers!

  8. Apr 25

    Ep. 158 | Do You Need a Book Coach? How a Christian Book Coach Can Help Christian Authors

    In today's episode, I explain exactly what a book coach is and how you can know when you need one as a Christian writer.  I have worked in a variety of levels within the publishing industry: First as an editor, then as the founder of Lasting Legacy's Publishing and then, when God called me to specifically call his writers, I became a book coach. Today I share my passion for helping you get your God-given messages out into the world and explain the benefits of using a book coach.  Click here to learn more about my coaching. Connect with Dalene: Contact - > info@inkandimpact.com Podcast -＞Ink and Impact Substack -＞ Publish with Purpose FB/IG/LI -＞@dalenebickel Work with Dalene: Get personalized support through 1:1 book coaching at www.dalenebickel.com/bookworthy-coaching  What additional topics would you like to learn about?  Send us Fan Mail Join my new free Publish with Purpose Substack community for industry updates, live Q&A sessions, and to connect with fellow Christian writers!

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Confused about how to write a book?Struggling to find time to write?Ready to learn a step-by-step process to self-publish like a pro? Welcome to Ink and Impact, the podcast for Christian writers who want to self-publish their first nonfiction book. I’m your host, Dalene Bickel – a Jesus-loving book coach and founder of Lasting Legacies Publishing.  I’ve worked in the self-publishing industry for 29 years and I’ve written and published more than a dozen nonfiction books for clients (and myself). What started out as a way to help retirees privately publish their life stories expanded in 2021 when the Lord called me to serve Christian writers.  I believe the Lord is calling Christian writers just like you – writers of all ages, races, and nationalities. Writers who are willing to create quality nonfiction books that offer the light, hope, and truth of Christ to a weary and waiting world.  Books that make a true impact on the world and leave a lasting legacy. Maybe that resonates with you. Maybe you feel led to write a faith-based business or how-to book, memoir, devotional, or Bible study.  But as a busy business owner, parent of littles, family caregiver (or a combo of all three), your dream of becoming an author might seem out of reach right now. The reality is that God has given you a message to share right now for a reason. Here on the podcast, I’ll help you develop a publishing plan, write your manuscript, self-publish your book, and sell more copies no matter how much - or little- time you have. Join me here each week as I bring you rotating content full of practical information and tangible tips as well as occasional interviews and industry insights, all from a Biblical perspective.  Get  ready to:  Replace distraction with productive action,Learn a clear step-by-step process, andCommunicate your message in a way that attracts readers. Fire up your computer and brew an extra pot of coffee, friend. It’s time to write your book and make an impact! NEXT STEPS: Subscribe so you don’t miss an episode! Schedule a 1:1 Coaching Callhttps://lastinglegacies.as.me/?appointmentType=39640667Join the Publish Like a Pro Community www.facebook.com/groups/publishpro/Visit the Website https://dalenebickel.com/ink-and-impact/Email me:  info@inkandimpact.com

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