- 54 minutes 53 seconds326: Can Good Characters Save a Bad Plot? (And What Actually Keeps Readers Hooked)
In this episode of The Christian Indie Writers’ Podcast, we tackle a question every writer wrestles with:
Can compelling characters carry a weak plot—or will the story still fall flat?We break down:
• Why readers fall in love with characters (and when that’s not enough)
• The hidden cost of a weak plot—even with amazing protagonists
• How character and plot are meant to work together, not compete
• Practical ways to strengthen your story without losing your voiceIf you’ve ever poured your heart into a character but struggled to keep your story engaging, this episode will give you clarity—and a path forward.
🎧 Listen now and learn how to craft stories that keep readers emotionally invested and turning pages.
Support this ministry on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/christianindiewriters
30 Days of Writing Sprint Prompts: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08MGR7431
Our Facebook Group! https://www.facebook.com/groups/listenersofciwp
Visit our website: https://christianindiewriters.net/
Prompt: lantern, secret, river, promise, shadow
8 May 2026, 3:00 pm - 49 minutes 8 seconds325: Christian Fiction Is Growing Fast — Here’s What Readers Actually Want Now
Is the Christian publishing industry changing in 2026? The answer might surprise you.
In this episode of The Christian Indie Writers’ Podcast, we break down:
• Why Christian fiction is quietly booming
• What today’s readers really want (and what they’re tired of)
• How the rise of indie publishing is reshaping the market
• What this means for you as a writer in 2026If you’ve ever wondered why some books take off while others disappear, this conversation will give you clarity—and a path forward.
Links discussed:
https://www.firmenpresse.de/pressrelease734029/christian-fiction-14-7-yearly-surge-dramatic-market-expansion-data.html?utm_source=chatgpt.com
https://www.writtenwordmedia.com/2025-indie-author-survey-results-insights-into-self-publishing-for-authors/?utm_source=chatgpt.com
1 May 2026, 3:00 pm - 49 minutes 9 seconds324: The Truth About Christian Publishing in 2026? What This Means for Christian Indie Writers
Is the Christian publishing industry changing in 2026? The answer might surprise you.
In part 2 of this series, we break down what’s really happening in the world of Christian publishing—and what it means for YOU as a writer.
From the rise of indie authors and hybrid publishing to the growing importance of building your own platform, the industry is shifting in a big way. The traditional gatekeepers don’t hold the same power they once did, and more writers than ever have the opportunity to share their message directly with readers.
But with that opportunity comes new challenges.
We talk about:
- How the role of the author is expanding beyond just writing
- Why platform matters more than ever
- The power of niche writing
- And more
Whether you're writing Christian fiction, nonfiction, or just starting your first book, this conversation will equip you to move forward with purpose.
Prompt: Chain, bell, rain, door, sand
24 April 2026, 3:00 pm - 48 minutes 38 seconds323: The Truth About Christian Publishing in 2026? What Writers Need to Know
Is the Christian publishing industry changing in 2026? The answer might surprise you.
If you’ve ever wondered whether traditional publishing still matters—or if indie publishing is the better path in 2026—this episode will help you think through your next steps with clarity and confidence.
Prompt: A decision made in haste leads to unexpected consequences.
17 April 2026, 3:00 pm - 43 minutes 22 seconds322: Writing Emotional Core — A Trauma-Informed Approach
What gives a story lasting impact? It’s not just the plot—it’s the emotional core.
In this episode of the Christian Indie Writers’ Podcast, we explore how to write stories that handle pain, trauma, and healing with honesty, empathy, and purpose. Learn how to avoid common pitfalls, create authentic emotional depth, and craft redemptive arcs that resonate—without feeling preachy.
If you want your stories to connect on a deeper level and reflect truth with grace, this episode is for you.
Support this ministry on Patreon:
https://www.patreon.com/christianindiewriters30 Days of Writing Sprint Prompts:
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08MGR7431Our Facebook Group!
https://www.facebook.com/groups/listenersofciwpVisit our website:
https://christianindiewriters.net/Learn more about the hosts…
Jamie: https://writingshorts.net/
Jenifer: https://jenifercarlltong.com/
Tina: https://christinacattane.com/Sprint Prompt: “You’re not seeing the whole picture yet.”
10 April 2026, 3:00 pm - 49 minutes 50 seconds321: The 15-Minute Writing Habit That Can Help You Finish Your Book
Struggling to find time to write your book? In this episode, The 15-Minute Writing Habit That Can Help You Finish Your Book, you’ll discover a simple, sustainable writing routine designed to help busy writers build consistency and finally make progress.
Learn how just 15 minutes a day can transform your writing life using a proven 5-step method.
Whether you’re writing fiction, nonfiction, or faith-based content, this episode offers practical tips to help you build a daily writing habit, overcome procrastination, and finish your book faster—without burnout or overwhelm.
If you’ve been waiting for the perfect time to start writing, this is your sign. Start small, stay consistent, and watch your words add up.
Join our Patreon! https://www.patreon.com/cw/christianindiewriters
Be a part of our Facebook community! https://www.facebook.com/groups/listenersofciwp
Sprint Prompt: farewell elaborate rally offend decrease
27 March 2026, 3:00 pm - 43 minutes 43 seconds320: Is Your Writer’s Block Spiritual? (Christian Writers Need to Hear This)
Ever feel like the words have run dry, but the calling to write hasn't? You're not alone. Up to 85% of writers face the struggle. We dive into the core question: What role does faith play when creativity dries up? In this episode, you’ll discover practical, faith-based strategies to break through the block and build a sustainable creative rhythm. We reframe writer's block as not proof of failure or God's silence, but often an invitation to deepen and rest. Question: If this season isn’t punishment… what might it be preparation for?
Sprint Prompt: beam, profile, sensitive, random, convert
Support this ministry on Patreon:
https://www.patreon.com/christianindiewriters30 Days of Writing Sprint Prompts:
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08MGR7431Join Our Facebook Group:
https://www.facebook.com/groups/listenersofciwp13 March 2026, 2:00 pm - 55 minutes 48 seconds319: How to Write a Christian Novel that Actually Helps People (Without Being Preachy)
In this episode of The Christian Indie Writers Podcast, we’re talking about how to write a Christian book that shares faith, offers hope, and changes lives — without turning your story into a sermon.
Many Christian authors struggle to balance biblical truth with compelling storytelling. How do you weave faith naturally into fiction? How do you avoid heavy-handed dialogue, unrealistic “perfect” Christian characters, or on-the-nose moral lessons?
We cover:
- Why Christian fiction can sometimes feel preachy
- How to write faith-based stories that feel authentic
- Practical ways to show faith instead of lecturing readers
- How to create believable character arcs rooted in spiritual growth
- Tips for indie Christian authors who want their books to genuinely help people
If you’re writing Christian fiction, faith-based novels, or inspirational books, this episode will help you strengthen your craft while staying true to your message.
Support this ministry on Patreon:
https://www.patreon.com/christianindiewriters30 Days of Writing Sprint Prompts:
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08MGR7431Our Facebook Group!
https://www.facebook.com/groups/listenersofciwpVisit our website:
https://christianindiewriters.net/Learn more about the hosts…
Jamie: https://writingshorts.net/+
Jenifer: https://jenifercarlltong.com/
Tina: https://christinacattane.com/Sprint Prompt: fragment, golf, wilderness, apology, recommendation
27 February 2026, 4:00 pm - Why Christian fiction can sometimes feel preachy
- 55 minutes 55 seconds318: How much description is too much?
Are you over-describing your scenes? How much description is too much in fiction?
In this episode, we talk about one of the most common writing struggles: overwriting description. Many writers fear the reader won’t “see” the story unless every detail is spelled out. But too much description can slow your pacing, stall the plot, and tempt readers to skim.
We’ll explore the difference between immersive detail and infodumping, practical ways to tighten your prose, and how to weave description naturally into action.
If you want stronger pacing, sharper scenes, and more powerful storytelling, this episode will help you learn when to cut and when to let the reader’s imagination do the work.
Support this ministry on Patreon:
https://www.patreon.com/christianindiewriters30 Days of Writing Sprint Prompts:
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08MGR7431Our Facebook Group!
https://www.facebook.com/groups/listenersofciwpVisit our website:
https://christianindiewriters.net/Learn more about the hosts…
Jamie: https://writingshorts.net/+
Jenifer: https://jenifercarlltong.com/
Tina: https://christinacattane.com/Sprint Prompt: Theme: Enough is Enough
20 February 2026, 4:00 pm - 50 minutes 58 seconds317: How to Write the Five Senses in Fiction
What makes a story unforgettable? It’s not just the plot, it’s the experience!
In this episode, we explore how sensory writing brings fiction to life, helping readers feel the story instead of simply watching it unfold. Join us as we discuss practical ways to use the five senses to deepen emotional connection, reveal character, and create immersive scenes, all without overwhelming your reader.
We’ll cover common pitfalls, share revision strategies you can apply immediately, and talk about how faith and discernment guide us in writing vivid yet purposeful descriptions that reflect the beauty of God’s creation.
Whether you’re drafting or revising, this episode will equip you to craft stories readers don’t just read… but truly experience.
Support this ministry on Patreon:
https://www.patreon.com/christianindiewriters30 Days of Writing Sprint Prompts:
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08MGR7431Our Facebook Group!
https://www.facebook.com/groups/listenersofciwpVisit our website:
https://christianindiewriters.net/Learn more about the hosts…
Jamie: https://writingshorts.net/+
Jenifer: https://jenifercarlltong.com/
Tina: https://christinacattane.com/Sprint Prompt: era, restaurant, laboratory, bare, freshman
13 February 2026, 4:00 pm - 1 hour 10 minutes316: More Than “Like” and “As”: Using Metaphors and Similes to Strengthen Your Writing
According to Jen, a simile is like a cup of tea made from pre-used grounds. Metaphors, meanwhile, crush it in the comparison competition. Jamie says, “not all metaphors are similes, but all similes are metaphors. Or something.” Confused? You won’t be, after this episode of The Christian Indie Writers’ Podcast.
Support this ministry on Patreon:
https://www.patreon.com/christianindiewriters30 Days of Writing Sprint Prompts:
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08MGR7431Our Facebook Group!
https://www.facebook.com/groups/listenersofciwpVisit our website:
https://christianindiewriters.net/Learn more about the hosts…
Jamie: https://writingshorts.net/
Jenifer: https://jenifercarlltong.com/
Tina: https://christinacattane.com/
Sprint Prompt
Spend the entire sprint crafting one extended metaphor.30 January 2026, 4:00 pm - More Episodes? Get the App