Life and Mission

In this episode, I'm answering questions about nonprofit newsletters.How many newsletters should you send?How fancy do they need to be?What else can you do with those stories?Why send a print newsletter by mail when you can send email instead? One key thing you don't want to leave out.------------If you struggle to tell stories, you'll struggle to raise funds. In the Mission Writers course:Learn the exact stories that every ministry, missionary, and nonprofit needs to tell.Master the fundraising story calendar.Develop and practice essential storytelling skills to increase funding for your mission.Build your story library and your confidence.Details at MissionWriters.org

Storytelling is an essential skill for fundraisers.  What do stories do?Stories help us connect. Compelling stories increase empathy.Stories reflect our values. Stories reveal truths. Stories help us see others in a new way.Stories give us context.If you struggle to tell stories, you'll struggle to raise funds. In the Mission Writers course:Learn the exact stories that every ministry, missionary, and nonprofit needs to tell.Master the fundraising story calendar.Develop and practice essential storytelling skills to increase funding for your mission.Build your story library and your confidence.Details at MissionWriters.org

The time between Thanksgiving and December 31 is by far the biggest giving season of the year. People expect you to ask. If you don't, the assumption will likely be that you don't need their money.Here's what you need to do now.Support the showMission Writers is an online course and group coaching experience where you'll develop and practice essential storytelling skills to help increase funding for your mission. Get started now, for a year of coaching at over 60% off the regular price.

You know you need to tell more stories to raise funds - but where do you find these stories? In this episode, I share five ways to find the stories you need.Support the showMission Writers is an online course and group coaching experience where you'll develop and practice essential storytelling skills to help increase funding for your mission. Get started now, for a year of coaching at over 60% off the regular price.

In the Food Network show Chopped, just before chefs present their first dish to the judges, they must answer the question, “What would it mean for you to win?” It's a question every nonprofit must answer.Support the showMission Writers is an online course and group coaching experience where you'll develop and practice essential storytelling skills to help increase funding for your mission. Get started now, for a year of coaching at over 60% off the regular price.

Do you think of yourself as an expert? Maybe you should. We need you to share your knowledge and experience with us.-----Support the showGet the free Guide to Donor Stories, part of the Mission Writers Essential Stories Series.

Your supporters want to help.  Asking them for advice helps you and engages them at a deeper level. You'll both be glad you did!Often, when you ask for advice, supporters will tell you exactly how they prefer to be asked for money. The transparency you show in  conversations around how you raise funds invites them to also be transparent about how they approach giving. This isn't a trick to get them to give more. It is an invitation to understand each other and to come into a closer relationship. Be sure to report back to them and let them know how their advice helped!Support the showGet the free Guide to Donor Stories, part of the Mission Writers Essential Stories Series.

In the last episode, we looked at gaps in your storytelling that cause friction. This week, we're looking at friction in the donation process.Support the showGet the free Guide to Donor Stories, part of the Mission Writers Essential Stories Series.

Why aren't people giving? Maybe there's too much friction–little things in your messaging or in your presentation that cause hesitation or second-guessing. This week we look at friction in storytelling, and what to do about it.Support the showGet the free Guide to Donor Stories, part of the Mission Writers Essential Stories Series.

Every story needs change, regardless of the story's focus. By recognizing this and emphasizing it, you can engage and connect with your audience more effectively.Support the show

Sports can teach us a lot about nonprofit storytelling. In this episode, we're looking at two examples of sports using storytelling to reach people and to teach people – two things all nonprofits need to do.Support the show

If you've got a book, you need a course to go with it. Here's my interview with the man who can help you do that, Dr. Lucas Marino.Support the show

When we are writing to move someone to action, we must be clear. Not clever. Only crystal clear will do. I recently attended the Hope Words conference for writers, where one of the speakers was Katherine Paterson. Mrs. Paterson is the author of over 40 books and the recipient of many awards for her writing, including two Newberry Medals. She told us about a time when she got a note from her long-time editor about a certain paragraph. She had taken great care with this paragraph and she held it dear.The editor's note said, “It's beautiful, Katherine, but what does it mean?”As a writer, I feel the pain of having something I've labored over being misunderstood or torn apart. As an editor,  I know it's a question that must be asked.All our beautiful writing and storytelling is worthless if it isn't clear.To be clear in our nonprofit writing, we must answer three key questions:What is happening?What does it mean?What do you want me to do about it?By answering these questions, you can provide context for your message and make it clear what action you want your readers to take.Support the show

As ministry practitioners and nonprofit communicators, we are often called to sit with difficult stories of human suffering and injustice. Even though we are storytellers, not every story is for sharing. Our words are also meant for remembering, exploring, questioning, and hoping.ResourcesMark Vroegop, Dark Clouds, Deep Mercy: Discovering the Grace of LamentMichael Card, A Sacred Sorrow: Reaching Out to God in the Lost Language of Lament (Quiet Times for the Heart)Links may be affiliate links. This means I receive a portion of your purchase price (at no extra cost to you).Support the show

Parables have a way of getting around our defenses, short-circuiting our stereotypes, and making us think in new ways. In this episode, we're looking at the role of parables in Jesus' ministry, and how you can use stories to break through walls in your nonprofit's messaging.Check out Jesus' parable in Matthew 13, and his answer to the disciples when they ask why he tells so many stories.Things to think about:What misconceptions, bad information, political twists, outdated approaches, prejudices, and stereotypes show up around the work you do? How do those things affect your nonprofit?What stories could you tell to nudge people toward a better understanding of the issues and the work that you do?Resources:Tell it Slant, by Eugene Peterson (affiliate link)Get your 2023 Story CalendarSupport the show

The Fundraising Super Bowl is your nonprofit's big game - and winning looks like raising the funds you need to serve. Here are some lessons from that "other" big game.Football coaching legend Vince Lombardi famously said to his almost-champion Green Bay Packers team,  “Gentlemen, this is a football.”What he meant was they needed to execute the basics well, if they expected to win the big championship game. They had failed to win the championship the year before. But by focusing on the basics, they became a football dynasty. Lombardi's advice is relevant to you, today, as a nonprofit fundraiser.Even the best players aren't perfect.This year, the winning Super Bowl quarterback was Patrick Mahomes. He completed 21 of 27 passes in the big game. The Eagles' Jalen Hurts completed 27 of 38 passes.  Not perfect. I find that reassuring.During the season, the Mahomes completed  67% of his passes.  I'm sure he'd love to be perfect, but he also knows there has never been a perfect game. Nobody has ever started and finished a game without throwing an incomplete pass. Can you imagine if Patrick Mahomes went out to play, threw a couple of incomplete passes, and then said, "That's it! We obviously need to just run the ball. No more passing, because I can't complete every one." He wouldn't do that, because he knows 67% is good. You Real Job as the Fundraising QuarterbackIf you're the quarterback on your fundraising team. You have a job to do. And that job is simply to move the ball down the field. You line up your team, and execute the appropriate play for the moment. In fundraising, that means you're doing the basics: Communicating consistently with donorsGetting your message in front of new peopleThanking them when they giveSending emails Telling stories Reporting backLadies, and gentlemen, this is an email.This is a phone call.This is a face to face visit.These are the basics that move us incrementally down the field, one play at a time. Some of those incompletes have nothing to do with you. Other times, you need more practice, training, or time with a coach.Keep doing the basics–with excellence.If you need training to tell your stories, check out Mission Writers. Support the show

Being a guest on podcasts is a great way to share your message. Here's your guide to being a great podcast guest.Find full show notes and a checklist at lifeandmission.comSupport the show

In this interview with Eric Nevins, founder of the Christian Podcasters Association, we discuss the potential waiting to be unlocked through podcasting.Eric hosts the Halfway There Podcast.Check out the free Mission Writers video workshopThree Essential Stories Every Missionary, Ministry, and Nonprofit Needs to Tellgo.kayhelm.comJoin Mission WritersSupport the show

This week on Life and Mission: End-of-year fundraising may be over, but that only sets up some key messaging for January.  In this episode, I'll give you three key messages to send donors in January (plus a bonus).Check out the free Mission Writers video workshopThree Essential Stories Every Missionary, Ministry, and Nonprofit Needs to Tellgo.kayhelm.comJoin Mission WritersSupport the show

In this episode, Kent Sanders shares his process for ghostwriting and collaborating on book projects. Plus, thoughts on structure and creativity, and his latest project - a book about Elvis. Kent is the author of 18 Words to Live By: A Father's Wisdom on What Matters Most,   and The Artist's Suitcase: 26 Essentials for the Creative Journey, and co-author of Performance-Driven Giving: The Roadmap to Unleashing the Power of Generosity in Your Life.  He recently collaborated with Billy Stanley for The Faith of Elvis. What is ghostwriting?The process of writing a bookBuilding a business on your own termsCollaborating on a bookDifferent book structuresMentor booksOne thing we can do today to improve our writingKent is a wonderful teacher, and you can learn more from him through the Daily Writer Podcast or join us in the Daily Writer Club.Links are affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive compensation (at no extra cost to you). Thank you.-----Check out the free Mission Writers video workshopThree Essential Stories Every Missionary, Ministry, and Nonprofit Needs to Tellgo.kayhelm.comJoin Mission WritersSupport the show

When things don't turn out as planned, a well-told setback story can give donors another reason to support you. Here are some of the stories you can tell around a setback:Explain the process of change your beneficiaries go through.Focus on one aspect of the change process and help supporters understand why it's such a hurdle.Share a story about the setting that causes difficulties in the change process.Feature something in your work that deals specifically with one of those hurdles.When you tell stories like this, you show that you're the expert. You're giving donors one more reason to trust you to tackle this problem.Check out the free Mission Writers video workshopThree Essential Stories Every Missionary, Ministry, and Nonprofit Needs to Tellgo.kayhelm.comJoin Mission WritersSupport the show

I have a love-hate relationship with conferences and networking events. While I love to meet new people and to learn new things, large or busy events can get overwhelming. I'm an introvert. I like my alone time. After a lot of activity,  conversations, and noise, I need to go somewhere quiet and recharge. Last week's Daily Writer Retreat got me thinking about the advantage of smaller events (at least for me). This was a two-day event, with dinner together at a local restaurant the night before. It was a small event, really much like a mastermind, with only a dozen people. That's one of the things that made this an easy ‘yes' for me. Here are some things that made this event a success  for me:Community & collaboration are powerful.  The hotseat approach (like a mastermind) gave everyone a chance to benefit from the experience and insight of others. The structured approach and focus gave everyone a chance to share their ideas.Simplicity sparks creativity.  In contrast to over-programmed conferences, the slow, simple approach meant we could have deeper conversations and process them in real time, giving new ideas the room they need to develop.Introverts are amazing. In the right environment, introverts are generally superstar listeners. This meant advice from fellow attendees was more likely to be useful and relevant. I think we all left with realistic next steps.The format of this retreat allowed us, as introverts, to contribute (and receive) consistently through the two days we had together.  Conference planners, if you're not allowing time and space for introverts to shine, you're missing out!Introverts, understanding how you react to different environments, and structuring your time at events so that you get the breaks you need can make the difference between exhausting and exhilarating!For more information about the Daily Writer Club - click here (affiliate link)Check out the free Mission Writers video workshopThree Essential Stories Every Missionary, Ministry, and Nonprofit Needs to Tellgo.kayhelm.comJoin Mission WritersSupport the show

The tables are turned as fundraising expert Mary Valloni interviews Kay about using stories to connect with donors. We talked about:Using stories to connectWhere we go wrong with storytellingStories for people in admin rolesTelling your own origin storyThe key story we forget Missionary fundraising training with Mary Valloni fullyfundedacademy.comLevel up your storytelling skills with Kaymissionwriters.orgkayhelm.comCheck out the free Mission Writers video workshopThree Essential Stories Every Missionary, Ministry, and Nonprofit Needs to Tellgo.kayhelm.comJoin Mission WritersSupport the show

Your donors are busy. They're tired. They make decisions all day in a world where everyone is clamoring for attention. Here's a simple way to help them "catch" your stories.Check out the free Mission Writers video workshopThree Essential Stories Every Missionary, Ministry, and Nonprofit Needs to Tellgo.kayhelm.comJoin Mission WritersSupport the show

Our stories have the power to move supporters along on a journey: introducing them to a problem, dispelling myths, offering hope, introducing them to our organization, showing them how we solve the problem, building trust, and inviting them to take action. At any point in time, you'll have people at different stages along these five levels of awareness:Unaware - They don't even know there is a problem.Problem Aware - They know about the problem, but not about solutions.Solution Aware - They know about solutions, but not so much about your organization or the work you do.Brand Aware - They know about you! But they aren't convinced you are the right fit for them.Most Aware - They get it! They know about the problem, what you do to solve the problem, they know, like, and trust you, and they're ready to join you (just waiting for you to ask). It's important to think about the donor's journey, and where they are in it, when crafting our stories. We must also consider our organization's goals (increase monthly donations, bust a myth around the problem we solve, attract volunteers, etc.) and position ourselves and the story accordingly. Adjust your flaps–address potential donors according to the stage of awareness they're in. Do this, and donors will be more informed, engaged, and ready to respond when it's time to ask for their support.Check out the free Mission Writers video workshopThree Essential Stories Every Missionary, Ministry, and Nonprofit Needs to Tellgo.kayhelm.comJoin Mission WritersSupport the show

My guest today is Joy Capps, author of Joyful Copy—How to Show Up in the Marketplace Ethically and Authentically. There are a lot of copywriting formulas and blueprints, and many ways to reach your audience. But not all ways line up with what we know to be ethical and true. Joy created her Joyful Copy framework to help us write marketing copy that isn't slimy. Based on Galatians 5:22-23 and Philippians 4:8, her framework filters best practices of copywriting through the teachings of the Bible.LinksConnect with Joy at joycapps.comInstagram – @joycappswritesFacebookLinkedInGet the book – Joyful Copy–How to Show Up in the Marketplace Ethically and Authentically on Amazon, or at joyfulcopy.comCheck out the free Mission Writers video workshopThree Essential Stories Every Missionary, Ministry, and Nonprofit Needs to Tellgo.kayhelm.comJoin Mission WritersSupport the show

Every story gives us a chance to choose. Do we set up a “them and us” narrative, or will we do the work to offer another perspective?Check out the free Mission Writers video workshopThree Essential Stories Every Missionary, Ministry, and Nonprofit Needs to Tellgo.kayhelm.comJoin Mission WritersSupport the show

I got a message today from a supporter who needs to stop her monthly donations. I'm thinking of my friends in ministry who raise support–missionary support or raising funds for the ministry as a whole–and you're on the field, you're doing the work, and you get a message like this.The temptation is to shrink back. The temptation is to say, "Well, people are hurting (they are) and so I feel bad asking for money to support the ministry." But I want to encourage you that this is not the time to pull back. The money belongs to God. It's not yours. It's not your donor's money. It's God's. The king's heart is in the hand of the Lord,Like the rivers of water; He turns it wherever He wishes.Proverbs 21:1Things are being moved around, yes. Some donors will leave you. But some will also come to you. Coming or going, we're still called to relationship. We're in this together. The resources belong to God, and He will move them around from time to time. You still have to do your part. You still have to be ready to receive.You have to make it easy for people to give.You need to ask.Not only ask–more than ever, you need to tell stories. Fundraising is part of discipling and leading and ministering to the people God has given you for this season. You pray together, weep together, celebrate together.If you feel bad about asking for money, ask yourself a few questions:Do I only talk to my people when I need something? Am I sharing the ministry with them without asking for money? (stories)Do they ever get to see the smiles I get to see? Do they ever experience the joy and fulfillment I feel on a day when I absolutely know that God is with me, and that God loves without reserve the people He's called me to serve? If you haven't been telling stories, sharing the work, sharing the joy, then start now.  We grow closer by sharing stories. We are fundraisers, but it's not the only thing we are. We are brothers and sisters in Christ. We bear one another's burdens. We share one another's joys. We celebrate all that God is doing and look to Him with eager expectation.We find solid ground to stand on when we remind each other of God's faithfulness. Don't just say He's faithful, share the story of how you know he's faithful. This is the word of your testimony. We are always called to glorify the name of the Lord.  Stories help us to see how He is moving and working in the world today.We need that. There is a time to ask - and yes, you can ask in tough economic times. But at any time, you must tell stories. And you must tell stories before earning the right to ask. Share the stories. Share them with boldness and confidence in the Lord, as you trust Him to turn hearts and resources where He wishes.  Check out the free Mission Writers video workshopThree Essential Stories Every Missionary, Ministry, and Nonprofit Needs to Tellgo.kayhelm.comSupport the show

How to make your fundraising materials more inviting and easier to read, so more people can join you in your life-changing mission. Support the show

My interview with Katie Hornor, author of Flamingo Marketing: How to Leverage Unique, Stay Relevant and Change the World[00:02:28]  Leverage your unique[00:04:11]  Why mindset is so important[00:06:03]  Doing hard things[00:09:26]  Time management[00:13:08]  Legacy[00:14:03]  Details on the bookKatie has bonuses for you at freeflamingobook.comSupport the show

My three top takeaways from the Virtual Event on Virtual Events, and how you can serve your people by sharing the things you learn.I try to attend something every year that's outside of but adjacent to my field. It helps me see things with fresh eyes. New possibilities, solutions to old problems, and a break from the routine.  I recently attended The Virtual Event for Virtual Events and came away inspired and energized.Here are my top three takeaways that any communicator (even if you're not doing events) can use:Write in sand, not cement. You don't have to have it all figured out. Jump in. Get into the mix. Have those fun awkward conversations as you figure things out. Go on a journey with your people and figure it out together! Macro clear, micro easy. Get absolutely clear on what problem you solve for the people you serve. How do you make a difference for them? Once you're clear on that, the other things fall into place.Show what's possible. Everything you do shows the people you serve what is possible, so you can't afford to play small. My challenge to you:Take something you learned through an event, conference, sermon, or personal experience and share that with your with your audience. Support the show

You need to tell stories to raise more funds for your mission, ministry or nonprofit. But why is that? What exactly is it that stories do?Every known culture tells stories. This is the way we make sense of the world and our place in it. All through the donor journey, especially with people who are not yet aware of you and your mission. Stories help draw them in, and help them get to know, like, and trust you. Why Tell Stories?Stories help us connect – When you listen to a story, your brainwaves  actually start to synchronize with those of the storyteller. Research shows compelling stories cause our brains to release oxytocin, increase empathy, and have the power to affect our behaviors.Stories help us remember who we are and what we're about. Donors give to their values. Telling stories that reflect those values help donors make good decisions about whether you're a good match for them. Stories reveal truths – your storytelling can help people see the world in a new way. Shift perspectives, overcome prejudices.Stories offer dignity and context for beneficiaries, and give them a voice.Stories put our critical minds aside for a moment, and we willingly enter into the narrative. We try to find ourselves in the story. Stories give us context to make sense of all those things.You don't just “need a story” to fill a space in your newsletter. You need a story to show donors what they can accomplish by giving to your mission. Where do they fit in this story? Not just through giving, but in the big picture of a world where this thing is a problem. They can reflect their values, glorify God, ease suffering, and experience deep personal satisfaction by stepping into this story and playing an active role.In our ministries, stories are an invitation into a world most people haven't experienced. If I live in America and I'm immersed in church culture, and all my friends are Christians, I don't give much thought to what it's like to not know who Jesus is. To not have ever seen a bible. So, when you say you need funds to go and preach the gospel, or to live in another culture for several years so they can have a bible in their language, you can't just start there. You have to bring donors into that world and give context to what you do and why you do it. You do that with stories.I'm convinced one of the most powerful helps for us to tell better stories is to think about why we tell stories in the first place! Support the show

It's a new season for the Life and Mission podcast!  Mission WritersSupport the show

Ronne Rock is a storyteller, truth-teller, hope-dealer, and author of One Woman Can Change the World: Reclaiming Your God- Designed Influence and Impact Right Where You Are.Support the show (https://www.paypal.me/kayhelm)

Mission and vision are words we hear often, but we can struggle to differentiate between them. As leaders, communicators, and fundraisers, the confusion can cost us.We have a great cause! Why won’t people join us? Why don’t they give?Maybe it’s because we’re not being clear. They can’t see the big picture, and they don’t understand what we’re doing or how what we do fits in with the big picture. In this episode, I’m talking about vision, mission, goals, something I call handles, and how all of these work together.Vision (1:24)Mission (4:14)Goals (7:34)Handles (8:33)Understanding these four words, and training our team to use them in the same way, will help us to more easily see our collaborators, and connect with the hearts of the people that God sends across our paths. It will help us to express more freely and more clearly what we’ve set out to do, and how people can be a part of it.Support the show (https://www.paypal.me/kayhelm)

Fundraising doesn’t have to be a chore! Why should it be? We get to invite people into a greater story. David Oaks and I had a fun conversation about the simple things you can put into practice today to build better relationships and raise more money for your mission.Connect with David:Website: www.wsdevelop.comInstagram: @davidLoaks12Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DavidLOaksTwitter: @davidoaksSupport the show (https://www.paypal.me/kayhelm)

How do we get past that nagging feeling that we aren't qualified or "ready" to do that thing we're supposed to do?Imposter syndrome is that feeling many of us get when we start something new, where we question our qualifications, our abilities, or even our right to be involved at all. Jennifer Harshman works with people who want to make a difference, mostly writers and entrepreneurs. She says imposter syndrome is something we can all struggle with, but there are ways to overcome it.Talk back to your inner criticStrike a power poseTake a small step every dayCelebrate taking that small step, no matter how it goesWhat's your strategy to beat imposter syndrome?AboutJennifer Harshman shows people who want to make a difference exactly what to put in their books and blog posts and where, so they get the clarity and confidence they need to start writing immediately. Connect with Jennifer at harshmanservices.comfacebook.com/jennifer.harshmanSupport the show (https://www.paypal.me/kayhelm)

How can moments of slow living create an island of peace in our daily lives?  Jodi Grubbs is a slow living advocate and host of the Our Island in the City podcast. Here are some of the ways we  can slow down and connect in the midst of our busy lives.Guest:Our Island in the CityConnect with Jodi on Instagram @jodi.grubbsSponsor:Get Out of the Boat, A Bible-Based Business Virtual Retreat, April 30, 2021getoutoftheboat.comSupport the show (https://www.paypal.me/kayhelm)

Chris Staron is an award-winning filmmaker, an author, comedian, and podcaster. As host of the Truce Podcast, Chris uses journalistic tools to provide history and context to better understand the Christian church today. He gives us an inside look into his storytelling process, and why the stories we tell are so important.Connect with Chris at trucepodcast.comSupport the show (https://www.paypal.me/kayhelm)

What's keeping your nonprofit or ministry from being fully funded? Mary Valloni lays down some truth to help us overcome the lies we believe about money and fundraising. Plus, simple things you can do today to start your journey to Fully Funded.Connect with Mary at maryvalloni.com and at fullyfundedacademy.comNeed a Certified Fully Funded Coach? fullyfundedacademy.com/kayhelmGet the book: Fundraising Freedom: 7 Steps to Build and Sustain Your Next Campaign Disclosure: Links may be affiliate links. If you decide to purchase any of these resources, I earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. Support the show (https://www.paypal.me/kayhelm)

Misty Phillip is using her gifts and her calling to bring people together. In 2020, she hosted two events–one live, right before the lockdown–and the second as a virtual event. We talked about the differences and similarities between live and virtual events, Misty’s personal journey of faith, and cultivating community.About Misty PhillipMisty is a dreamer and a doer who believes we are all here for a reason and that we are created for a purpose. She encourages people to use their story to give God glory. Misty Phillip is a podcaster, speaker, author, and entrepreneur who is passionate about helping you spark your soul message.Founder of Spark Media which consists of the Spark Christian Podcast Conference, Spark Now Summit, and the Spark Collective. She is the host of the popular By His Grace podcast. Misty inspires others through her leadership, speaking, and mastermind groups. She currently serves as the Houston Connect Leader for Christian Women In Media. Misty is the author of the best-selling Bible Study, The Struggle is Real: But So is God and Spark Podcast Planner 2020.MistyPhillip.com and SparkMedia.VenturesConnect with Misty on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, LinkedIn and PinterestSupport the show (https://www.paypal.me/kayhelm)

If you've ever wanted to start a podcast, this is for you. But not only podcasts, we're talking about going where your audience is, the process of creating content, and how to get your message out to the world. AboutAlana is a podcast coach, editor, and podcast producer who is on a mission to take the overwhelm, frustration, & stress out of podcasting, and put the fun back in! Alana is the host of The Podcasting Party Podcast, where she shares simplified step-by-step instructions, and easy-to-implement strategies for podcasters of all stages & phases. Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/alanapdawson/ Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/podcastingparty/ Website: https://alanadawson.comSupport the show (https://www.paypal.me/kayhelm)

I sat down with Brandy Wallner of Hope*Writers to talk about three things writers and creatives need to succeed.1. A guide2. Good, fresh information3. CommunityBrandy is a community writer for Hope*Writers, tasked with building community and keeping members on track. For more about Hope*Writers https://lifeandmission.com/hopeDo you dream of publishing your writing but you’re not sure what to do next (or where to start)? Check out this free quiz to help you identify where you are on the writing path.I am a Hope*Writer affiliate, which means if you become a member of the Hope*Writer community, I get paid. That helps keep this podcast going. Thank you!Support the show (https://www.paypal.me/kayhelm)

Tom Lane is the apostolic senior pastor at Gateway Church and author of Tested and Approved: 21 Lessons for Life and MinistryTom Lane is the apostolic senior pastor at Gateway Church in the Dallas/Fort Worth Metroplex. As an elder, he provides spiritual governance for Gateway’s ministries. As a pastor to pastors, Tom is a long-term, trusted Christian leader. Tom has written many books including Heritage: A Father’s Influence to the Generations, Foundations of Healthy Church Government, and he coauthored Strong Women and the Men Who Love Them with his wife, Jan.https://gatewaypublishing.com/products/tested-and-approvedSupport the show (https://www.paypal.me/kayhelm)

Some thoughts on the hope of Christmas, and I share shorts from my friends in the Christian Podcasters Association.But the angel said to them, "Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people." Luke 2:10 Several friends eager to run into the New Year have asked me, “Do you have your word for 2021?” Actually, I don't have a single word. I have a phrase from the song O Holy Night. The soaring, triumphant anthem for a world so drained and exhausted that it knows our only hope is to look up. I imagine us all on our knees, weak and heavy, turning just enough to catch a furtive glance of someone moving. Emmanuel, our Savior. God with us. But He's not what we expected! What is this? He's just a baby! We need a king! We run after the tangible but fleeting hope of humans and human systems that can only offer the illusion of security. The promise of rest never realized. Until… One night in a small town, a lonely couple with nowhere to go settles among the animals and lays their newborn in a manger. As the baby cries his first breaths, the sky grows bright over the hill country. Startled shepherds rise to investigate, then fall back to the ground in awe and wonder. The light and the sound of the angels' song is nearly too much to bear. With their heads still pressed to the ground, they turn just enough to glimpse the heavenly choir. Gasping for breath, overwhelmed. Praises tumble from their lips as a thrill of hope invigorates their souls. Through the years, the angels' praise continues. But our jaded, impatient world, discontent and numb, marches on from season to season. Have we lost enough strength to fall to our knees? It's the weary world that rejoices. The weary world suspects we were meant for more. The rest of Bethlehem went about its business that night. But the baby's exhausted parents and the shepherds; they were the ones who noticed. It was the weary ones on their knees that gained that thrill of hope. The truth of Christmas is that we cannot save ourselves. The promise of Christmas is that God loved us so completely that He sent His son to save us. "The thrill of hope, the weary world rejoices, for yonder breaks a new and glorious morn." - O Holy Night He wrapped us in a starry sky, calling us to look up. He gave His only son to us. Wonderful Counselor. Prince of Peace. The government shall be upon His shoulders, and of His kingdom, there shall be no end. This year has been challenging, but not without hope. Weary ones, may this week of in-between be filled with the wonder of Christ's birth and the thrill of hope that only He can bring. ~Kay Also this week, I'm sharing short takes from my friends in the Christian Podcasters Association:Letters from Home Podcast, by Meg Glesenerhttps://lettersfromhomepodcast.com/https://www.twitter.com/letters_podcastLife, Repurposed Podcast, by Michelle Rayburnhttp://www.liferepurposed.mehttps://twitter.com/michellerayburnTruce Podcast, by Chris Staronhttps://trucepodcast.com/https://twitter.com/trucepodcastMoments with Moni Podcast, by Monika Hardy https://www.momentswithmoni.comhttps://twitter.com/Monika_HardySupport the show (https://www.paypal.me/kayhelm)

Sometimes a single word or phrase has the power to change the course of our lives, and “Chickening IN” is that word for JJ Gutierrez. This little twist on a familiar phrase launched JJ into a transformational journey from fear to faith. Her book, Chickening IN: From Fear to Courageous Faith, 8 Pillars of Transformation, is a practical guide to defeating fear and doubt. I spoke with JJ in February, but we especially need her message today.Overcoming fear is a process. One step follows another, with small, sometimes imperceptible forward movement. That first step of faith, saying “God, I’m terrified,” invites Him into the conversation. As He speaks truth, we are able to take those practical steps we need to take.How many times have you “chickened out”? Chickening IN is an invitation to a lifestyle of courage and faith.LinksJJ Gutierrez, Courage Challenger and Mentor – chickeningin.comGet the book (affiliate link): Chickening IN: From Fear to Courageous Faith, 8 Pillars of TransformationFind JJ on Instagram and FacebookSupport the show (https://www.paypal.me/kayhelm)

How do you define success? Is it financial? Family? Creative or business achievements? Or does it have to do with something else? Tim Winders is a Performance Coach and author who specializes in helping Executive Teams and Entrepreneurial Leaders maximize their potential by looking beyond traditional “cookie-cutter” methods that often limit the creative process. A lifelong student, he thrives on helping people discover how to live outside of the box and walk out their unique God-given calling. In his own life, he has frequently taken the road less traveled, and found great satisfaction off the beaten path. As host of the SeekGoCreate podcast, Tim goes to the out of the way places to bring you people who redefine success and impact our world in remarkable ways as dreamers, movers, strategists, and connectors. Tim's SeekGoCreate Podcast@SeekGoCreateSupport the show (https://www.paypal.me/kayhelm)

What happens when you play catch every day for a year? Ethan Bryan played catch on New Year's Day with his daughters. Then they had an idea. "Dad, what if you played catch every day for an entire year?"That's 365 days of catch! It's 500 catch partners, 10 states, and 12,000 miles, rain, wind, and snow. It's about play, letting our guard down, and connecting with each other.Do you have a story about how play connected you to something bigger? LinksA Year of Playing Catch: What a Simple Daily Experiment Taught Me About Life, by Ethan Bryanethanbryan.comSupport the show (https://www.paypal.me/kayhelm)

Today I’d like to take my 14 years experience managing a nonprofits and offer help for leaders in this area. Download the guide at kayhelm.com/npguide.1) A Spirituality of Fundraising, by Henri J.M. NouwenYou can read this through in one sitting. It’s only 50-60 pages. And it deals with the most important part of your fundraising–your mind. So many people start because of passion, but then run into a wall because fundraising feels like begging. So we’ve got to change our mindset. This is a book that invites us to examine our hearts, motives, and methods and align these with God’s word. If you come to me for fundraising coaching, Session One homework is to read this book. 2) FREEDOM Fundraising Framework: 7 Steps to Build and Sustain Your Next Campaign, by Mary ValloniThis book outlines Mary’s FREEDOM Fundraising Framework. Raising funds successfully and consistently requires strategy! The Freedom framework gives you that strategy, from clarifying your mission and message to building and deploying your teams and making your difference! I interviewed Mary in episode 42, and Mary has a podcast called Fundraising Freedom.3) Fully Funded AcademyThis resource is specifically for missionaries raising support. Fully Funded Academy is a monthly membership training program that gives you the clarity and confidence to launch, grow, and scale your financial support base. If you need more 1:1 support, I'm a Fully Funded Certified Coach.4) Cairification, from Claire AxelradThere are really only two blogs you need to follow. The first one is “Clairification” from Claire Axelrad. This blog is a tremendous source of knowledge on all things fundraising and philanthropy. 5) The Storytelling NonprofitThe next blog is the Storytelling Nonprofit, from Vanessa Chase Lockshin. I interviewed Vanessa in episode 27. As the Storytelling Nonprofit, Vanessa’s focus is on recognizing, collecting and telling stories that help donors connect with our cause. 6) GuideStar (now part of Candid)You need to be sure your organization is listed on GuideStar, and that you keep your listing updated each year. This is the place where foundations and funders will look to verify your information, got make sure you are a legit 501c3. So when you apply for a grant, and when you apply to get listed on other nonprofit sites like TechSoup, they need to find you here. 7) TechSoupThis next one will save you TONS of money on software and tech. Do NOT go to sketchy discount software stores where you could end up with pirated software, or malware. Get the real deal. 8) ECFAFor Christian nonprofit organizations, I want to mention ECFA. Evangelical Council for Financial Accountability. They produce some of the best resources (books, guides, webinars, and more) to guide your organization in areas of good governance and financial accountability. If you are just beginning the process of starting a nonprofit, start here! Use their resources for building a strong board and organizational structure that will serve you well for many years. Get the nonprofit fundraising guide, at kayhelm.com/npguideSupport the show (https://www.paypal.me/kayhelm)

Brian J Dixon on making money in ministry, taking care of relationships, and having those difficult but important conversations. Connect with BrianWebsite: https://briandixon.com/IG: https://www.instagram.com/brianjdixon/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/drbrianjdixonTake the Hope*Writer quizMore about Hope*Writers: lifeandmission.com/hopeDisclosure: Links may be affiliate links. If you decide to purchase any of these resources, I earn a small commission at no additional cost to you.Support the show (https://www.paypal.me/kayhelm)

Joyce Glass is The Write Coach, helping writers through the process of writing and completing their books. Key TakeawaysThere is a process to writingShare your work for accountabilityGet prayer coveringGet in a writing communityWriting is a skill you can learnWriting, editing, and research are all different things. Don't try to do them all at once!Break large projects in to smaller partsGet the help you needLinksConnect with Joyce at TheWriteCoach.bizPodcast - The Write HourSupport the show (https://www.paypal.me/kayhelm)