Breakout Session #1
Click one of the session titles to learn more about what each session will cover!
Speakers
Speak Like a Pro
Speakers
Presented By: Carol Kent
The fear of public speaking is the #1 fear of people in the U.S. today. But people who learn to communicate their message have the opportunity to give hope, courage, truth, and inspiration to others.
This session will give you a start-to-finish overview of how to prepare a talk on any topic. You will learn how to analyze your audience, select a topic, write out a specific, measurable aim, and conclude with appropriate applications.
Laughter is the Best Medicine
Speakers
Presented By: Cherie Nettles
In this workshop, the attendees will learn the three types of laughter to use and recognize in their audiences. God tells us in His Word, Proverbs 17:22, “… laughter is medicine to our souls, …” as speakers we are called to live like God is telling the Truth. Being able to laugh with our audiences gives them the opportunity to heal or begin their healing. This session will teach comedy strategies to use in every message, how to use tried and true techniques and prompts, and when humor is and is not appropriate.
Writers
How to Craft a Winning Non-Fiction Book Proposal
Writers
Presented By: Cindy Lambert
A book proposal that catches the attention—positive attention—of an acquiring editor and other publishing professionals needs more than just the inclusion of the right items. It needs to be based on a unique and winning idea; it needs the right tone; it needs the right ingredients, and it needs to be the best possible example of your writing ability. Learn how to create a compelling proposal from an editor responsible for discovering and publishing some of the most admired Christian authors writing today.
Finding Your Audience
Writers
Presented By: Bryan Crum
Connecting with the ideal audience isn’t just a book launcher; it’s a career builder. “Finding Your Audience” is more than a marketing strategy. With countless competing voices and fleeting attention spans, we can have an incredible message and still miss the mark simply because we are targeting the wrong people. With a focus on authentic storytelling, strategic insight, and practical and actionable steps, I help writers discover and connect with readers who are not just interested but deeply engaged in their stories. Whether you’re drafting your first novel or sharing your personal journey, my insights will guide you in finding the readers who will become your most loyal advocates and champions of your work. If you want a better book, a stronger platform, a bigger reach, or a deeper impact, finding the right audience is essential. Learn how to connect with those who need to hear your message the most.
You will leave empowered to:
- Put Your Self-Doubt on A Diet.
- Discover the power of resonance.
- Unlock your area of authority.
- Write through a lens of love.
Ministry Development
How to Communicate Truth without Causing Offense
Ministry Development
Presented By: Christina Custudio
Are you attending this conference with a sense of calling but feeling unworthy or unprepared? Have you struggled tHow to Communicate Truth without Causing Offense – Christina Custudio)
In this breakout session, we’ll explore how to share biblical truths with clarity and compassion. As writers and speakers, it’s our duty to present these truths in a way that resonates without causing unnecessary offense. Join us to discover techniques for communicating challenging messages effectively and with empathy, balancing honesty with love.
What You’ll Learn:
- Recognize the news and challenges of your audience.
- Address negative issues with positivity
- Seek deeper insights into your audience’s perspectives and experiences.
- Master the skill of not personalizing criticism.
- Foster relationships with individuals who hold different viewpoints, while staying true to your values.
The audience will come away with a comprehensive understanding of how to communicate effectively while staying true to biblical principles.
Tools and Tricks to Effectively Manage Your Time
Ministry Development
Presented By: Susan Call
You’ve got ideas for your writing or speaking and may have more action items than you can count. But how do you make it happen? We’ll unpack easy-to-implement ideas for organizing and planning your content, projects, and action items. From creative ways to use sticky notes to leveraging tools such as Kanban boards, we’ll explore ways to help you tame your to-do list, track your ideas, and balance priorities between writing and speaking and life’s other responsibilities.
Create Your DREAM Website
Ministry Development
Presented By: Katy Boykin
In this session, attendees will discover the essential steps to design a website that not only looks stunning but also functions strategically to grow their business or ministry. This session will guide participants through best practices for building user-friendly, high-converting websites, with tips on content structure, navigation, and customization. Whether you’re just starting or looking to revamp your current site, this session will provide the insights and tools you need to create a site that reflects your brand and engages your audience effectively.
Breakout Session #2
Click one of the session titles to learn more!
Speakers
Outlining with Pizzazz
Speakers
Presented By: Bonnie Emmorey
Eeeeek! Outlining? Many people get a headache just thinking about it, but this session will make outlining FUN! Learn to put your messages together so they are creative and memorable. Learn the secrets of outlining, and take home the tools to make it happen without breaking a sweat.
Speaking with C.O.N.F.I.D.E.N.C.E.
Speakers
Presented By: Na’Kedra Rodgers
You’ve accepted your calling as a speaker and now it’s time to operate in your gift. There’s only one small problem, the spirit of fear. It’s ok; we’ve all been there. In this workshop, Na’Kedra gives the keys to speaking with confidence. Attendees will learn affirmations to speak when self-doubt creeps in and key components to crafting a talk that will leave their audience empowered, entertained, inspired and informed.
Writers
Publish on Purpose!
Writers
Presented By: Athena Dean Holtz
Did you know Amazon limits you to uploading three books a day? This means the book market is oversaturated with poorly written manuscripts, unattractive covers, and no plan to promote. Because of poor products, consumers are looking for credibility and excellence in the books they buy. Join industry veteran and pioneer Athena Dean Holtz and learn not only how to publish well but how to have an impactful product to market to readers!
Landing a Literary Agent
Writers
Presented By: Karen Neumair
Get insider information on how to open the door to traditional publishing with the right representation. This Q&A style session with Senior Literary Agent Karen Neumair will give you the answers to the following questions: What is a Literary Agent? What does a Literary Agent Do? What does a Literary Agent look for in an author? How do I find a Literary Agent? How do I approach an agent for representation? (Ideal for authors seeking a traditional publisher.)
Ministry Development
Crossing the Generational Divide: Effective Ministry to Gen X,Y,& Z
Ministry development
Presented By: cindy bultema
In a rapidly changing world, each generation—Gen X, Y (Millennials), and Z—approaches life, faith, and community in unique ways. Understanding these differences is crucial for anyone committed to sharing the hope of Christ with the next generation. This workshop will explore the distinct characteristics, challenges, and spiritual needs of each generation, providing practical strategies to connect with and minister to them effectively. Through insightful teaching and practical application ideas, you’ll gain the tools needed to engage these generations in a meaningful, impactful way, ensuring that the message of Christ resonates across age groups.
Session Objectives:
- Explore the key traits and values of Gen X, Y, and Z, recognizing how their cultural contexts shape their spiritual perspectives.
- Learn practical strategies for engaging each generation, addressing their unique needs, and building bridges between them and the church community.
- Be empowered to create ministry environments that resonate with all generations, fostering a legacy of faith that endures for years to come.
Find Your Tribe
Ministry Development
Presented By: Angela Donadio
We are so much stronger together, but we often struggle with trust and stay in silos. Angela offers scriptural principles and practical steps to help us leave behind comparison and find our tribe.
- Discover the five types of women you need in your tribe.
- Create Christ-centered, confetti-filled community.
- Grow and strengthen the ministry God has given you through meaningful connection and authentic relationships.
Look Great On Stage and Off
Ministry Development
Presented By: Jill Swanson
Elevate your style and make a lasting impression with tips to help you make the most of what you’ve got. Learn how to upgrade your wardrobe, master the secret language of color, and “brand” your look – all without breaking the bank. Jill reveals the top 5 Image Boosters—and 5 Busters that could undermine your first impression complete with amazing before and after pictures. This fun, engaging presentation will leave you confident and ready to shine, whether you’re on stage, on camera, or meeting a publisher. Get ready to stand out!
Note: Special discount on Jill’s services to those attending this session – so don’t miss this one-time presentation on Thursday!
Breakout Session #3
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Speakers
Teaching Scripture with Confidence
Speakers
Presented By: Lee Nienhuis
If ever there was a time when people needed to be taught the Word of God, it’s now. What is the difference between a Speaker and a Bible Teacher, and how can your disciplined study of Scripture ignite others to study for themselves? Join Lee as she explores the wonders and warnings God gives to those who diligently teach His word. Learn new methods, discover new tools, and take home a new vision for the Word at work in your ministry.
Turn your Signature Talk into a Book
Speakers
Presented By: Shawn Kuhn
Every speaker has a message to share but every speaker has a book. A speaker with a book has more credibility, gets more bookings, and an evergreen product to sell. In this session we will discuss how to develop a book from your signature talk, making your book the definitive authority on your message. We will discuss the importance of the rule of 3’s when you write your book. We will discuss constructing an outline and expanding the key concepts covered in your talk. We will cover the length of chapters and overall length of the book. Even if you don’t consider yourself a writer you will leave with a plan, know how to start the process and actually make headway as an author.
Writers
How to Write to a Felt Need
Writers
Presented By: Rob & Joanna Teigen
You have a message inside of you that you can’t wait to share with the world. It aligns with the unique mission God has placed on your heart. Yet one of the most important steps to take before crafting your message is to not just write from your passion, but to the felt need of your audience and to the space in the marketplace that publishers are eager to fill. Rob Teigen brings 30 years of experience as both a publishing professional and bestselling author to help you create the book that readers and publishers are excited to discover.
Writing & Marketing for the Now & Next Generations
Writers
Presented By: Blythe Daniel
Are you a writer who wants to make sure your writing reaches the “now” and “next” generations? We write for needs that are present now, but we also want books to carry over into the next generation. We need writers who can span the generations and the needs of older to younger readers. We often see cycles of books repeat by topics. What is published today often comes back a couple of years later with a different title, a slightly changed premise, but speaking to the generation that needs the “now” word. What words is God giving you that are not just for now, but for the next generation? This workshop will focus on writing for, and marketing to, the “now” and “next” generations. Different audiences respond differently to formats, styles, voices, children’s stories, non-fiction, fiction, and devotionals. And there are different ways to market to different generations of readers. We’ll look at specific genres and how to best present your voice to be timeless, not too trendy, and relatable for books that are sought after. We’ll cover some of the “how tos” and the “whys” behind how many writers struggle to know which format and book to write out of their many ideas – what is a “now” and perhaps “later” book. You can walk away feeling more fixed on your idea and your voice to convey it.
Ministry Development
Embrace Your Season of Life
Ministry Development
Presented By: Kathe Wunnenberg
Are you overwhelmed by opportunities, or do you feel shut down and waiting to be used by God? Are you stepping in a new direction or persevering through a well-worn path? Writers, speakers and leaders experience unique seasons of growth, pruning, harvesting and stillness in the journey. Sometimes unexpected circumstances or health challenges require a season to heal, rest, restart, or creativity to do ministry differently. Come discover where you are and what you need most. Leave with practical encouragement, Biblical truth and personalized prayer strategies to embrace your season with joy and peace.
Draw Them In, But Don’t Drown Them
Ministry Development
Presented By: Darlene Larson
How much is enough to share of your personal story? And how much is too much (TMI)? Prepare ahead to write, walk and talk, with healthy boundaries while truth and grace reign in the palace of your mind. Join this workshop to learn to develop the twelve discipline muscles of social skills for speaking and writing your story.
Creating a Lead Magnet to Grow Your Audience
Ministry Development
Presented By: rachael adams
In this breakout session you will discover practical strategies to attract and engage your ideal audience by offering valuable resources. Learn how to create effective lead magnets, such as downloadable guides, printables, interactive quizzes, custom wallpapers, and ebooks, to build your email list and strengthen your connection with your followers. Whether you’re a seasoned content creator or just starting out, this session will equip you with creative ideas to provide meaningful content that aligns with your message, grows your platform, and increases your impact.
Breakout Session #4
Click one of the session titles to learn more!
Speakers
How to Get Booked on Podcasts & Be a Great Guest Amber Cullum
Speakers
Presented By: Amber Cullum
You’ve heard a good way to MARKET your book and speaking topic is by APPEARING on podcasts, but you need help getting BOOKED. If that describes you, don’t miss these session details:
- Take away 2-3 INSIDER podcasting guest tips that will set you apart from other guests
- Discover how to find podcasts in your niche to pitch
- Learn what to include in your pitch to hook the podcast host
- Formulate a strategy of best podcast guest practices
Unleash the Power of Storytelling
Speakers
Presented By: Mary R. Snyder
Unlock the transformative power of storytelling to craft a compelling speaker brand that deeply resonates with your audience. This workshop equips Christian speakers with essential tools to stand out and make a lasting impact.
What You’ll Learn:
- Identify your target audience and their struggles.
- Position your message as the solution with a captivating one-liner.
- Craft a speaking narrative that aligns with biblical principles.
- Implement StoryBrand techniques in your presentations and marketing.
- Build emotional connections through powerful storytelling.
Writers
Never Too Late to Get Published
Writers
Presented By: Maggie Rowe
Have you had a God-sized dream of becoming a writer ever since you were young? Maybe you’re in the second half of life and wonder whether that dream will ever become your destiny. TEDx presenter and author Maggie Rowe signed her first contract with a traditional publisher at age 65, released her second at 67, and believes the years behind you have been preparing you for the best work ahead of you. Attendees will encourage and equip each other in this interactive, inspirational breakout session!
How the Sausage Is Made: The Traditional Publishing Pipeline
Writers
Presented By: Joel armstrong
You’re attending writers conferences because you have a book you want to publish—but what actually happens to your manuscript when it goes through the traditional publishing process? Does a steely-eyed editor eviscerate your book with a red pen? Does a committee of out-of-touch industry professionals decide on your title and cover for you? From the acquisitions editor considering your proposal to the marketing campaign around your launch window, this session goes step-by-step through what happens to a traditionally published book. With a particular focus on editorial processes, this session also considers marketing, design, finance, and sales.
Ministry Development
Logos Bible Software Training
Ministry Development
Presented By: scott lindsey
Communication that produces change happens when we apply the truth of God’s word to people’s lives. Today in ministry, we must be prepared to share the truth of Scripture to a culture that has gone digital.
This interactive workshop will demonstrate the use of Logos Bible Software for effective speaking preparation, writing research, and personal Bible study. What usually takes five to 10 hours of flipping through paper books for speaking prep and Bible study can be done in seconds – and the depth of study is unparalleled!
Logos 10 gives you access to your entire biblical library wherever you are because it is compatible with Mac®, PC, iPad®, iPhone®, and Android™ – this ease of use and power of Logos will be clearly taught and demonstrated.
Thriving in Ministry
Ministry Development
Presented By: Jeri Howe
When a church planter shared that she had set a goal that her planting team would be healthier at the end of the church plant that they were when they began, I was floored. I had never heard anyone set the health of the ministry team as such a high priority. And as I watched her lead, I saw how it shaped how they did ministry. Is it possible to thrive in ministry? I suggest it’s not only possible but critical. Come to this workshop to consider your daily, weekly, monthly and yearly spiritual habits and ponder suggested additions and edits to your rhythms of life that can improve your spiritual health. I invite you to make your health a priority and spend time in this workshop forming a plan that will help you endure, thrive and be fruitful in ministry.
Vulnerability as a Superpower
Ministry Development
Presented By: Becky Baudoiuin
It’s the feedback I most often receive when people read my books or hear me speak. “You are so vulnerable. So relatable.” Vulnerability removes the barrier between a communicator and their audience. It’s what makes people say, “You too? I thought I was the only one who feels this way.” And vulnerability is like a spark – when one person opens up it gives others the desire and permission to open up as well. It is one of our most powerful tools as writers and speakers.
But being vulnerable is more than just spilling all the juicy details. It’s not about divulging our most private moments in public, and it’s not merely showing up and letting people see us as a “hot mess.” Using vulnerability as a superpower in communication requires a thoughtful, intentional, strategic plan. We’ll start with addressing these questions:
- What does vulnerability look like?
- How do we know how much of our story to share?
- How do we steward our stories well as we share them with others so that we create connection with our audience and avoid causing pain to those we love (who also share in our stories with us?)
- How do we responsibly share the most painful pieces of our stories without triggering, burdening, or traumatizing those who are listening to us?
- How can we keep God and His redemptive love and power at the center of our messy, complicated narrative?
Participants will be given time to “workshop” a vulnerable part of their own story and share with the group, if they choose.
Breakout Session #5
Click one of the session titles to learn more!
Speakers
Preparing Your Personal Testimony
Speakers
Presented By: Carol Kent
Have you ever wondered what to include in the story of your life? Every Christian has a personal testimony, and God can use your journey to offer hope to someone else. Come to this session to learn how to concisely share your testimony in a way that will positively impact listeners.
Whether you’re sharing your story from a public platform or in an informal setting, you can communicate your faith journey with confidence, authenticity, and conviction. This session will help you decide what to delete and what to include as you point people to everlasting hope.
Podcasting 101
Speakers
Presented By: Linda Goldfarb
- Benefits of Podcasting
- Podcast Hosting Basics
- The Best Time to Begin Podcasting
Linda is a 10-year talk-radio veteran and current host of the two-time award-winning podcast Your Best Writing Life on iTunes and numerous podcasting platforms. Before you step behind the mic, gain an insider’s insight into the world of podcasting—shorten your learning curve before investing your finances.
Writers
Writing Devotions: Your Heart, Their Hope, His Glory
Writers
Presented By: Sandi Banks
Your stories can impact the world, one heart at a time! Join Sandi Banks for this interactive, inspiring, informative workshop. Here, you will learn key elements for effectively writing devotions, then get them into the publishers’ hands and the readers’ hearts.
What’s so intriguing and rewarding about devotional writing? It communicates truth, heart-to-heart, and points the reader upward for encouragement and connection with God—all in a five-minute-or-less read. Sandi defines devotional writing as a “nugget of truth, wrapped in a story, immersed in insight, served with grace.” Come discover what that means and how God can use your gifts and experiences to honor Him and offer hope to a hurting world.
Know Your Publishing Options
Writers
Presented By: Suzanne Kuhn
In the world of publishing, options are good but how does an author know which is best for their message, platform, and audience? With each option does the author’s responsibility change? Which publishing route will allow an author to reach their personal publishing goals? Join Suzanne and Shawn Kuhn of SuzyQ, as they reveal important differences among publishing options, how these options affect the writing and marketing efforts of an author, and how to determine which option is best for you.
Ministry Development
Courageous Choices
Ministry Development
Presented By: Sheila Qualls
We all struggle with fear, especially when God calls us to do something that requires us to step outside of our comfort zones. Using the story of Moses to explain her own fear in saying “yes,” Sheila explores common mindsets that prevent people from stepping up to lead. She offers practical ways to move past your “Moses Moment.”
This breakout session will guide you in:
- Identifying and examining fear-driven mindsets
- Developing strategies to overcome doubt and live courageously
- Understanding God’s plan for your life
Discipleship is a Command
Ministry Development
Presented By: jerry howard
When Jesus called Peter to His team, we know it wasn’t random. But it also wasn’t instantaneous either! Jesus used a very specific process to ensure that Peter’s heart and mind were fully committed to leave home and work to follow him. If you have not chosen your top 3, and perhaps another 9, you are not setting your family or ministry up for future success. Whether posterity or legacy, you are commanded to “Go and make disciples.” But How? Following Jesus and his recruitment of Peter provides an easy 4 step process to fulfilling the great commission!
Facebook Insight and Growth
Ministry Development
Presented By: Edie Melson
Facebook is still one of the largest—most effective—social media networks out there. It’s also one of the most misunderstood. Edie will share insight into how the Edge Rank Algorithm works and how you can make it work for you. She will also share the basics of using a Facebook ad to grow the visibility of a professional page. Included are:
- Common Facebook guidelines that writers need to be aware of
- Common Facebook scams
- How to post more effectively
- How to cross post between Instagram, Facebook, and Threads
- Steps to take to find the sweet spot and reach your audience
Breakout Session #6
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Speakers
Aim for Results
Speakers
Presented By: Bonnie Emmorey
Are you interested in taking your speaking to the next level? Do you want to go from Inspirational to Transformational? This session will give you the tools to make that happen. Discover the secret to having your audience actually remember and apply your message to their own lives. Learn to work within an aim frame, and you will never be long-winded again. This technique will give your audience take-home value.
5 Message Mistakes & How to Kindly Offer Your Audience Clarity
Speakers
Presented By: Shannon Popkin
What makes some messages stand out above others? It’s the sparkle that captivates the audience. In this workshop Mary will dPeople process information differently when they’re listening from a row, than reading a page. So how can we craft messages that will be easy for our auditory audiences to follow, understand, remember and retain? The process is much more challenging than you might expect!
As a TeachEquip.com lab facilitator, Shannon Popkin has noticed five mistakes that speakers quite commonly make as they craft their messages—all of which, she has made herself! In this workshop, she offers you a plan to avoid these mistakes and offer your audience the kindness of clarity.
Writers
Writing Opportunities Other than Book Publication
Writers
Presented By: dave lambert
It’s old-school thinking to consider only books or magazine articles as outlet for our work as writers. New markets open every year. We will look at opportunities in social media and on the Internet. Not all markets require technical know-how. From opportunities at your local church to other opportunities in your community and beyond, we’ll investigate a wide variety of way to use your gifts as a writer to connect with readers.
More than a Memoir
Writers
Presented By: Susan call & Lisa Saruga
You’re ready to share your story. What things should you consider if you’re thinking about writing your memoir? And, what are effective ways to use your story and increase your reach? We’ll explore a variety of options for you to maximize your impact, from memes, blogs, articles, and podcasts to legislation and more.
Ministry Development
Reaching Younger Gens with the Good News
Ministry Development
Presented By: Leslie Schonfeld
While the good news doesn’t change, your examples and approach to sharing your message should be generationally-informed in order to increase effectiveness. Younger people have valuable strengths and a great call on their lives! They are also inundated daily with much input without direction. Discover ways to communicate your message with Millennials and Generation Z in a way they will receive it so they walk away with unshakeable hope. Gain knowledge about the strength and sticking points of the younger generations, including commonalities and areas of potential conflict, as well as tools to help you communicate to these generations, drawing them to a closer relationship with Jesus Christ
Discover Your Ministry Identity
Ministry Development
Presented By: Shellie Arnold
Are you called to be a speaker who writes or a writer who speaks? Are you called to be both? Knowing your ministry identity is critical for beginners to start their careers on the right track. It’s also the key to rebooting or streamlining your ministry. And lacking this knowledge might be why you’re working hard but have little to show for your efforts. Save yourself years of headache, discouragement, and wasted energy. Join Shellie Arnold to learn how to: 1) determine your ministry identity, 2) equip yourself for your calling, and 3) plan the best path to pursue your calling.
My No is On the Table: kNOw Your Yes
Ministry Development
Presented By: Jenn Hand
You know you want to say yes to God, but yes sometimes comes with having to say no. No to things other people want you to say yes to. You have to say no to fear, comparison, people-pleasing, or feelings of inadequacy.
How do you say no so you can say yes?
Participants will:
- Learn to recognize when God is calling you to yes what no’s you have to say.
- Use scripture examples of those who had to say no to what may seem good to say yes to what is the calling of God
- Recognize fear stops in saying no and learn faith steps to say no to say yes!