The Writing at the Red House Podcast

Are you a true road warrior or just a budding speaker/ traveler? Either way, you cannot miss this episode! Hosts Michele Cushatt and Kathi Lipp cover the last 19 of 33 must-haves for the traveling communicator. With years of experience, missteps, and victories, the ladies provide traveling tips and secrets to foster your success. This is part two of a practical and engaging podcast.

In this episode, Kathi and Michele Cushatt share practical tips to help speakers who travel frequently to travel lightly and wisely. In this podcast, learn 13 of 33 savvy tips in part one of two episodes discussing travel tips.

Are you overwhelmed by the juggling act of being a communicator? Do you struggle to balance and navigate a speaking ministry and the ministry of being a parent and spouse? This episode, hosted by Kathi Lipp and Michele Cushatt, is full of advice to navigate the rigors of juggling real life and honoring God as one grows a communicating business. You do not want to miss the opportunity to learn from Kathi and Michele as they lead us on this journey of juggling!

Do you ever find yourself praying for more time in the day? In this enlightening episode, hosts Kathi Lipp and Michele Cushatt, provide four huge steps on the road to productivity. They cover the four major productivity pillars of making the most of one's time using the acronym "STEM": space, time, energy, and money. No matter the season in your life, you do not want to miss this episode!

Have you ever wondered how to decide which gigs are a "thumbs up" and which are a "thumbs down"? In the second part of this 2-part episode, hosts Kathi Lipp and Michele Cushatt are joined by Cheri Gregory, author and speaker, as they approach the topic of discerning which speaking gigs to accept and which to leave for another speaker. Cheri Gregory even provides a criteria list to help one decide. You do not want to miss this informative installment!

Are you bogged down with too many speaking engagements? Or weary from saying "yes" to the wrong ones? Are there wrong ones when one is doing Kingdom work? In this episode, hosts Kathi Lipp and Michele Cushatt are joined by Cheri Gregory, author and speaker, as they approach the topic of discerning which speaking gigs to accept. Part one of this episode contains engaging stories of mishaps and mayhem in previous speaking engagements and the pitfalls of not carefully and prayerfully choosing one's opportunities. You do not want to miss this delightful installment or its second half!

Producing and sharing content that is relevant is critical to your audience. In this episode, hosts and experienced communicators, Kathi Lipp and Michele Cushatt, share how to determine whether your content is evergreen and how to recycle content to best serve your audience and to make the best use of your time, as well. Come listen in and determine what content meets your audience's felt need best.

Is it really work if I enjoy doing it? Glynnis Whitwer, Author, Director of Compel Training and She Speaks, explores this question with successful author, Kathi Lipp, along with the motives and challenges that arise and keep us from observing a Sabbath. For ministry workers, we can sometimes not recognize that we are constantly working and not creating important time for rest. To be more productive, ironically we must do less and evaluate what really needs doing in the first place. Come on in and get your rest on and discover the benefits of the Sabbath rest God has called you to.

When God calls us, we can get sidetracked by our insecurities. Worse yet, we try to placate our insecurities with busyness. In this podcast, Kathi Lipp and Glynnis Whitwer guide us into recovery for the writer and speaker in the public eye. Getting down to the root of our insecurities helps us to identify the faulty belief that we are attaching to our insecurities and overcome them by dependence upon God and replacing false beliefs with His truth. Glynnis’ book, “Doing Busy Better” is about finding the balance between work and rest and getting to a place of soul rest, which is where the LORD wants to take us all. Weary from battling your insecurities? Come on in and listen and peel back your insecurities one by one.

Do you have a story to tell? Have you had some experiences that have forever shaped your life and your speaking ministry? In this episode, hosts and experienced communicators, Kathi Lipp and Michele Cushatt provide insight on how best to avoid being pigeon-holed into a certain niche and how to leverage the story God has given you to make the greatest impact. You do not want to miss this encouraging and powerful message!

Feeling called to speak but don’t know where to begin? In this Communicator Academy episode, Kathi and Michele guide you through the groundwork that needs to be laid to establish and kickoff a successful speaking career. Come learn how to connect your assets with the message God has placed on your heart and learn valuable ways to get the word out.

Today’s episode is part two of “A Podcast on Podcast”. Join Kathi and Michele as they share six tips along with a discounted podcasting course to help you get your podcasting off the ground. If you have ever thought about podcasting, this podcast will help you work through the many details involved and get a strong start to your podcast. As promised, we have a great offer on a resource for how to set up your podcast: the course, 7 Days to a Published Podcast is normally $99, but for listeners of Communicator Academy, it is $45. Use the code “communicator”. This offer is good through 2017.

In this episode of Communicator Academy, get the skinny on podcasting from Kathi Lipp and Michele Cushatt. The first in a series of two episodes on podcasting, learn whether podcasting is for you and get tips to help guide you in setting up your podcast. Serious about starting your own podcast? We have a great offer on a resource for how to set up your podcast: the course, 7 Days to a Published Podcast is normally $99, but for listeners of Communicator Academy, it is $45. Use the code communicator. This offer is good through 2017. Come and listen next time to part two of “A Podcast on Podcast”.

In today’s episode, Kathi and Michelle breakdown the process about writing a blog post quickly. Need to tighten up your writing process? Agonizing over days over a single blog post? Michelle and Kathi will help remove obstacles and make the process of blog creation a quicker, less “cluttery” process. Today’s episode offers four essential components and bonus tips that you can use as a template to help you be more expedient and to make the blogging process easier.

Are you considering writing a book with a friend, colleague, or acquaintance? Are you facing a project you think better tackled by two? In this informative and candid episode, host Michele Cushatt puts co-authors (and co-host) Kathi Lipp and Cheri Gregory in the hot seat as they discuss their adventures as co-authors. They discuss three major questions to ask before diving into such a project and ways to avoid pitfalls. You do not want to miss this episode as it will help any and all who want to collaborate effectively!

For some people, the idea of blog writing is daunting and frustrating. For others, it is a constant opportunity to share thoughts and idea with one's audience. No matter where you stand on this issue, this podcast episode is for YOU! Hosts Kathi Lipp and Michele Cushatt share from their treasure chest of ideas, insights, and illuminations on the topic of blog ideas. They uncover how we can best draw from our experiences and those of others to create meaningful and bountiful posts. You do not want to miss this!

Do you consider yourself to be a creative person? Do you struggle with creating blog posts, material for talks, or even recipes for dinner? In this amazing episode, Communicator and author Bob Stromberg, joins hosts Kathi Lipp and Michele Cushatt and cheers listeners to be masters of creativity. Author and comic strip creator Scott Adams once said: "Creativity is allowing yourself to make mistakes. Art is knowing which ones to keep." Bob Stromberg not only gives listeners permission to make mistakes, but also how to use everyday occurrences as sources of imagination, ingenuity, and inspiration. You do not want to miss this amazing conclusion to this podcast! It will serve to encourage, empower, and enlighten you!

Are you in a rut as a speaker or have a block as a writer? Creativity is the cure for that which often ails us as communicators. Hosts Michele Cushatt and Kathi Lipp are joined by the incomparable Bob Stromberg. Bob is an author, teacher, speaker, comedian, and creativity guru. Do you ever feel "uncreative"? Bob reminds us that we are made in the image of the CREATOR and charges us with the idea that creativity is not a gift, but more a craft we need to improve with effort. You do not want to miss the first part of this inspiring and enlightening two-part episode.

In this delightful and especially snarky episode, hosts Michele Cushatt and Kathi Lipp dive into some of the desperate attempts made by innumerable authors and speakers to be noticed. They discuss 19 (yes, 19!) missteps communicators should avoid at all cost. With their usual candor, engaging banter, and especially tongue-in-cheek approach, these seasoned authors and speakers provide candid perspectives and pitfalls. You DO NOT want to miss this incredible resource (and source of many giggles).

Have you ever been called at the last minute to cover for another speaker? Do you wish the time you spend to prepare a message could be minimized? This episode was tailor-made for you! Hosts Kathi Lipp and Michele Cushatt, who have prepared hundreds of messages themselves, uncover some of the tenants of being well-prepared and the shortcuts to success. They look at the anchors of your message: your purpose, audience, and voice and illustrate how we might use these anchors to enable ourselves to craft a great message in a fraction of the time.

In this episode, hosts Michele Cushatt and Kathi Lipp share some of their secrets (their favorite books on writing) with their listeners. Using their usual humorous and candid banter, the ladies do a delightful book report on some empowering resources for writers and communicators alike. Anyone who has the itch to write (or just to write well) does not want to miss this "members only" look at the best resources.

Are you a writer that needs an encouraging shot in the arm? Wisdom from an experienced communicator? Some insight on self-publishing? This episode is for you! Established and popular author, Mary DeMuth (she has over 30 books!), joins hosts Michele Cushatt and Kathi Lipp as they discuss the steps of self-publishing for the budding author and tackles e-publishing and print on demand. Mary has written self-published books on topics such as publishing, recovery, and abuse. She understands the rigors and beauties of such a task and offers great tools for those contemplating self-publishing and needs to get practical about the process.

Have you ever thought about writing your life's memoir? Do people tell you that your story would make a great book? In this episode, the popular topic of memoir is addressed by hosts Michele Cushatt and Kathi Lipp and are joined by New York Times bestseller, Susy Flory. They examine the types of memoir, how to determine the structure of one's memoir, what qualifies a person to write memoir, and the things that can make your story truly unique. You do not want to miss this great episode; it is inspiring for both the reader and the writer!

Does the idea of a book launch seem completely daunting to you? In this episode, Kim Stewart, speaker and book launch team manager join hosts, Kathi Lipp and Michele Cushatt to discuss building a book launch and how to simplify the process with your sanity intact. They discuss the components of a successful book launch, how to organize a launch team, and strategies for success. If you are a budding author or a veteran communicator, this episode is for you!

In this practical episode, hosts Michele Cushatt and Kathi Lipp introduce the strategies of Facebook Live. They charge those interested in using this great tool to be prepared, brave, consistent, spontaneous, and brief. Their fun and candid approach to being creative in serving their audience is so refreshing. You do not want to miss this delightful and practical episode regarding social media and ministry.

In this riveting episode, Hosts Kathi Lipp and Michele Cushatt talk with author and speaker Cindy Bultema about sharing the "bad stuff" of one's life to show the goodness of God. Both Cindy and Michele address the difficulties and blessings of allowing an audience into the unpleasant of their pasts and the power of doing so. Authors and speakers alike, you do not want to miss this episode full of honesty and humor.

Wendy Pope, author known for life change through her in-depth Bible Studies and her place in the Proverbs 31 ministry, joins hosts Kathi Lipp and Michele Cushatt on the topic of the waiting game that many authors and speakers endure. Wendy addresses the five misconceptions about waiting and how it pertains to the ministry of the communicator. Any author or speaker who finds themselves waiting for bookings, phone calls, publishers, and/or God to move can relate to this inspiring lady. You do not want to miss this!

To Self-publish or Not to Self-Publish? That is the question! Fortunately, for those of us who are contemplating self-publishing, author and mentor, Sherri Johnson addresses the journey that is bringing one's work to our audience in written form. Hosts Kathi Lipp and Michele Cushatt share their experiences through the myths, misconceptions, methods, and mayhem of self-publishing. Do not miss this episode rich with encouragement and experience perfect for anyone considering entering the world of self-publishing.

In this episode, successful authors and speakers Michele Cushatt and Kathi Lipp talk to Cheri Gregory, Christian communicator and co-author of the newly-released "Overwhelmed." Kathi and Cheri share insight from their book, personal stories, candor, and practical tools for avoiding the overwhelm that can come from juggling a communicator's long list of responsibilities, aspirations, and expectations. You do not want to miss this delightful podcast full of solutions and fun banter!

In this episode, Kathi Lipp and Michele Cushatt discuss the trappings communicators often fall into in the area of identity. Michele's new book "I AM" is a poignant look at identity in Christ and how we can find freedom in the Gospel approach to our identity. This episode is relevant to Christian communicators and anyone else who struggles to embrace the person God created him/ her to be.

Popular author and speaker, Jill Savage, joins Michele Cushatt and Kathi Lipp on the topic of ministering the midst of the mess. Jill's refreshing candor and personal stories provide insight to avoid the trap of thinking one has to be perfect in order to point others to Jesus. She provides hope to all those who live imperfect lives whilst wanting to make a difference in the world.

In this episode, hosts Michele Cushatt and Kathi Lipp discuss the importance of graphics and visuals in the speaker's ministry with the incomparable Nicki Koziarz. Nicki is a popular Proverbs 31 speaker, author, pug owner, and graphics rockstar. They delve into the world of graphics, giving insider info., providing free and inexpensive resources, and hope for those without a creative bone in their bodies. You do not want to miss this engaging episode.

In this valuable two-part episode, authors and speakers, Kathi Lipp and Michele Cushatt, both encourage the need for a team and provide various ways to gather such support on a shoestring budget. Whether you are just starting out in your ministry, or have a few more ministry miles on your journey, this two-part gem will provide invaluable wisdom and empowerment. (Part 2 of 2)

In this valuable two-part episode, authors and speakers, Kathi Lipp and Michele Cushatt, both encourage the need for a team and provide various ways to gather such support on a shoestring budget. Whether you are just starting out in your ministry, or have a few more ministry miles on your journey, this two-part gem will provide invaluable wisdom and empowerment.

In this episode, Michelle Cushatt and Kathi Lipp unearth some practicalities when it comes to uncovering ways to know one's speaking audience. In order to honor the audience, a speaker needs to unearth the background, environment, flavor of the surrounding area, current events, and perceived needs of the event coordinator. Paul's words to the church in Galatians 6:10 speaks to those of us who speak as well: "So then, while we have opportunity, let us do good to all people, and especially to those who are of the household of the faith." You do not want to miss this invaluable episode!

In this episode, authors and speakers Michelle Cushatt and Kathi Lipp, delve into the world of audience need. One cannot begin to connect with one's readership without first assessing the needs and immediate pain of said readership. Michelle provides a comprehensive list of ways to glean information about the needs of the audience with five great suggestions. You do not want to miss this episode if you are a writer and/or aspiring one.

In this episode, hosts Michelle Cushatt and Kathi Lipp talk with writer and encourager, Glynnis Whitwer. Glynnis is on staff with Proverbs 31 Ministries as the Executive Director of Communications. She is one of the writers of Encouragement for Today, the Proverbs 31 e-mail devotions, with over 950,000 daily readers. She is the author and co-author of 9 books, including her latest Taming the To-Do List: How to Choose Your Best Work Every Day. Glynnis provides some amazing tools for writing success and encourages all those who feel a call to write to do so! The listener will glean some insight and practical steps for writing, as well as be eligible for a book giveaway of Glynnis' latest book!

In the last decade, the market has been flooded with self-published books. In this episode of Communicator Academy, publishing guru and agent of Books and Such, Rachelle Gardner uncovers the secrets behind self-publishing, current market trends, and the strengths of traditional publishing. She provides six great questions one should ask before diving into the rigors of self-publishing and the rigors therein: 1) Are you motivated by a dream? 2) Have you pursued traditional publishing? 3) Who is your audience? 4) What is your timeline? 5) Do you have the money and resources to invest in the project? 6) Are you a control or collaboration person? You do not want to miss this fact-filled episode or the wisdom one can glean from it. Rachelle has worked alongside both Kathi Lipp and Michelle Cushatt, the podcast hosts, in their writing endeavors.

In the last decade, the market has been flooded with self-published books. In this episode of Communicator Academy, publishing guru Rachelle Gardner uncovers the secrets behind self-publishing, current market trends, and the strengths of traditional publishing. She provides six great questions one should ask before diving into the rigors of self-publishing and the rigors therein: 1) Are you motivated by a dream? 2) Have you pursued traditional publishing? 3) Who is your audience? 4) What is your timeline? 5) Do you have the money and resources to invest in the project? 6) Are you a control or collaboration person? You do not want to miss this fact-filled episode or the wisdom one can glean from it. Rachelle has worked alongside both Kathi Lipp and Michelle Cushatt, the podcast hosts, in their writing endeavors.

Successful authors, Michelle Cushatt and Kathi Lipp explore the advantages of creating a writing rhythm. In this episode, they discuss some ordinary steps that can produce extraordinary results. Any budding author or even one who is struggling with writer's block will be encouraged by the practical insight this podcast provides!

The opening portion (commonly known as "the opener") of a talk can be daunting. In this episode, Michelle Cushatt and Kathi Lipp employ the use of experience, wisdom, and past mistakes to provide the components of a great opener for every speaker. They communicate in their usual delightful way the four characteristics: prepared, clear, objective-driven, and audience centered. This is a great tool for the novice or experience speaker.

Amy Carroll

In this insightful episode, Kathi Lipp and Michele Cushatt uncover the fine line between sharing one's story out of authenticity and desperation. They provide biblical insight and perspective on how best discern when to tell your story, whether in writing or as a speaker.

Michelle and Kathi interview Susy Flory as she uncovers some of the secrets of writing memoir.

Kim Nowlin dives into the world of fashion and communicates the importance of celebrating who you are whilst honoring your audience at the same time. She provides practical insight to the types of fashion styles and how best to choose items for your speaking wardrobe.

Lipp and Cushatt on fostering success by leading yourself effectively

Blogging guru, Laura Christiansen and Kathi Lipp uncover the the 6 buckets of content for success and ways to overcome facebook fatigue.

Have you ever questioned your calling or asked the question, “who am I”? In this valuable podcast, author and speaker, Renee Swope tackles self-doubt and criticism and how to listen instead to the voice of God. She identifies criticism, comparison, and conflict and how this “trifecta” of self-doubt can undermine the success of a speaker. She and host, Kathi Lipp, provide practical tips for how to best combat the voice that tells us we are “not enough”.