Ink and Impact for Christian Writers - How to successfully write, self-publish, and market your book as an indie author

Ink and Impact for Christian Writers - How to successfully write, self-publish, and market your book as an indie author

Ready to write your book and make a kingdom impact? I’m your host, Dalene Bickel - book coach and self-publishing strategist with more than 25 years in the publishing industry. Whether you’re working on your first or fiftieth book, I’m here to help you write, self-publish, and sell your book more efficiently and effectively. Each week you’ll receive rotating content full of practical information and tangible tips as well as occasional expert interviews and industry insights, all from a Biblical perspective. Get ready to become the author God's calling you to be! NEXT STEPS: Subscribe so you don’t miss an episode! Learn More About My 1:1 Coaching https://dalenebickel.com/bookworthy-coaching Join the Christian Authors in Action Community https://www.facebook.com/groups/christianauthorsinaction Visit the Podcast Website https://dalenebickel.com/ink-and-impact/ Email me: info@inkandimpact.com

Episodes

August 7, 2025 13 mins

Some writers are tempted to use generative AI to write a book (in part or in whole) because it takes time and effort, perseverance and fortitude. 

And for the author who wants their book out there RIGHT NOW, they don't want to bother going through the learning curve or putting in the days/weeks/months to write the book.

This episode isn't for those types of authors.

This episode is for the Christian writer who wants to write...

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Which of the following best describes your current thoughts about marketing?

  • Are you an author who stresses over book marketing so much you avoid it as much as possible?
  • Do you want to get your book into the hands of your readers, but you simply don't know how?
  • Are you afraid of marketing too much and annoying all your followers/subscribers?

Regardless of which one resonated most with you, make sure you listen the whole w...

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Is fear of success holding you back?

If so ... or if you're not sure ... or if you know another writer who is struggling with this fear, then this episode is for you!

Today I'm going to share practical advice from a biblical perspective to help you become a confident author who's willing and able to make a true impact.

But before I dive in, I want to let you know that in August, I've opened up my calendar to accept...

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Whether you're in the writing, publishing, or marketing phase of your book, the success of your author journey relies on the actions that you take.

If you feel as though you've tried everything and still aren't getting anywhere, this episode is for you.

Listen in to discover the actions that actually lead to traction.

Ready to develop a tailored action plan that you can implement immediately? Book a coaching call!

Want t...

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Your expertise is a gift. Discover how to strategically leverage your book for maximum reach and influence, all while remaining true to your deepest convictions.

There are a lot of questionable tactics and advice out there in the publishing world so in today's episode, I'm going to cut to the chase and share how you can cultivate your message without compromising your values. 

Schedule a 1-hour coaching session with me to:

<...
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    If you're wondering how to write a book with purpose, this episode of the Ink and Impact podcast is for you!

    No fluff, no frills - just the basic info you need to write a God-honoring book that serves your readers well.

    Book your 1:1 Bookworthy coaching call today to develop your custom writing, publishing, and marketing plan that will enable you to complete your book this year.

    What additional topics would you like to learn abou...

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    Don't have time to write your book?

    Think again!

    In this episode, I share 4 simple strategies you can find time to write your book in 3-6 months.

    Listen in!

    Schedule your 1:1 Coaching Call here.


    What additional topics would you like to learn about?

    Ready to become a better, more confident writer and make a kingdom impact? Join the FREE Christian Authors in Action Facebook group!

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    Are you running low on empty as a Christian indie author?

    Feeling stressed, overwhelmed, overcommitted, and not getting anywhere?

    If so, it's time to fill your tank so you're able to cross the finish line and reach your publishing goal.

    Listen in to learn 5 ways to fuel your tank so you can confidently and powerfully launch your book into the world.

    Join the Facebook group for monthly masterclasses, timely tips, and regular e...

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    In this episode, I'm diving deep into practical, faith-filled strategies to help you embrace your calling and become a more confident author.

    Join me as I share the two core reasons many writers lack confidence and unpack five memorable steps to build your trust in God's plan and your belief in your own unique gifts. From remembering your identity in Christ to strategically reviewing your successes, these insights will emp...

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    Are you an aspiring author dreaming of publishing your book, but feeling overwhelmed by the journey ahead? In this episode, I'm tackling the three most common misconceptions about writing a book that often trip up new authors. Discover how to set realistic expectations, establish healthy boundaries, and become a more confident and productive writer.

    In this episode, you’ll learn:

    • The truth about income and opportunities: Why...
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    Are you an indie author hoping to make a real impact with your book, but struggling with how to get it into the hands of more readers? 

    Many authors wait until their book is published to start marketing, missing out on crucial opportunities to build a loyal readership. In this episode, we're diving deep into the top three things you should focus on before your book even hits the shelves to dramatically boost your book sales.

    Joi...

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    Discover how you can supercharge your writing life - and make an impact as an author - by employing these 3 powerful traits of Christian writers.

    Join the Indie Author Bootcamp
    May 19-23, 2025 @ noon EST

    #inkandimpact
    #christianauthorsinaction

    What additional topics would you like to learn about?

    Ready to become a better, more confident writer and make a kingdom impact? Join the FREE Christian Authors in Action Facebook group!

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    In this episode of the Ink & Impact podcast, learn the four essential fundamentals to make your book stand out in the crowded publishing market. 

    Hot tip: It's not about speed, but quality!

    Join Dalene Bickel at the Indie Author Bootcamp next week, May 19-23, 2025, at noon EST to learn  valuable insights on writing, self-publishing, and marketing your book while also implementing what you learn! Register here

    Let 2025 be your...

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    Ready to uplevel your author journey?!? 

    Be sure to do these 3 things every day!

    They aren't complicated.

    They're not fancy.

    Just 3 basic actions you can start doing TODAY to gain momentum and reach your author goals.

    JOIN THE CHRISTIAN AUTHORS IN ACTION FB GROUP!

    REGISTER FOR THE INDIE AUTHOR BOOTCAMP!
    May 19-23, 2025
    12:00 PMT

    What additional topics would you like to learn about?

    Ready to become a better, more confident...

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    Do you dream of writing a book but feel completely lost on where to begin? Welcome to the Ink & Impact podcast, where your host Dalene Bickel provides practical, no-nonsense guidance for aspiring Christian indie authors. 

    In this episode, "How to Write Your Book When You Don't Know Where to Start," Dalene breaks down the crucial first 5 sequential steps you can take today to transform your book idea into a publish...

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    Have you ever wondered what it takes to become a successful author?

    In this episode of the Ink & Impact podcast, book coach Dalene Bickel reveals the single most crucial thing aspiring and established authors need to take today to make real progress. 

    Key Takeaways:

    • Discover the #1 thing that separates aspiring authors from successful ones.
    • Understand why simply talking about your book won't lead to publication or readersh...
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    Ever wondered what it really takes to be a bestselling author

    This insightful episode pulls back the curtain on the truth behind bestseller status, revealing what truly drives author success and lasting impact. Host Dalene Bickel dissects the reality of becoming an "Amazon Bestseller" – from rapidly changing rankings and the power of niche marketing to the surprising ways bestseller lists can be influenced.

    Thinking of hi...

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    Schedule your 1:1 coaching session here before the 4 remaining spots are gone!

    In this episode, host Dalene Bickel shares her one-on-one coaching session with author Mel Pitts. Discover practical author marketing secrets to boost your own book sales, regardless of your publishing stage. Learn how to reach your target audience and effectively market your book beyond Amazon. 

    Key Topics Covered:

    • Breaking Free from Amazon Exclusivity
    • ...
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    Are you a Christian writer seeking clarity and direction in your author journey? 

    Schedule your 1:1 Coaching Session today to grab one of only 5 spots left before prices increase next month!

    This episode provides a powerful framework for goal setting that will help you write with purpose and make a lasting impact. 

    Discover the 5-step acronym "GOALS" and learn how to align your writing with God's glory, benefit your rea...

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    Have you ever wondered why your voice as a writer is so important? 

    In this episode, Dalene shares a captivating story of how her voice literally saved her college career and reveals the three key reasons why your author voice matters, especially as a Christian aspiring author. 

    Discover how your unique identifier sets you apart, how your voice is a gift from God, and how powerful your words can be. 

    If you're ready to learn how ...

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