Lina AbuJamra is a Pediatric ER doctor, now practicing telemedicine, and founder of Living With Power Ministries and She Gives Hope. Her vision is to bring hope to the world by connecting biblical answers to everyday life. A popular Bible teacher, blogger, and conference speaker, she is the author of several books and the host of the Living With Power Hope Podcast. Lina is also ministering to singles through her Today’s Single Christian show on Moody Radio and is engaged in providing medical care and humanitarian help to Syrian refugees in the Middle East. She is single, calls Chicago home, and would not survive without her iPhone. Find out more about her at livingwithpower.org and shegiveshope.com. 

Patricia is a writer who explores the sacred space of God's everyday grace. She is an introvert who craves community, a Michigander who hates being cold, and a hopelessly loud car singer who can’t carry a tune to save her life. She explores loss and grief—miscarriage, childlessness, losing a parent—and what it’s like to navigate those experiences in a world that often wants us to just get over it already. She has written for The Mudroom, Fathom Magazine, SheLoves Magazine, Perennial Gen, and many others. Patricia also solves many of the world’s problems while relaxing with a skein of yarn and a crochet hook. Connect with her at patriciaalderman.com

Abigail is many things these days, from homeschooling mom to interim leader of the National Prayer Catalyst Team for Cru to a writer, working on her first book about her journey with mental illness, to be published by Leafwood in early 2022. Her life has been a journey filled with tragedy, great pain and remarkable hope. She lives to tell her story to the glory and beauty of her faithful God. She returns to Redbud with great anticipation of how God will bless this community in the coming days!

Judy Allen is a writer and a Bible teacher and who explores growing faith, relationships, theology, culture, and the intersection of work and Christianity. These are all important aspects of her Christian life and writing is her way of processing what she learns. Although she didn’t understand it years ago, her goal has always been, and still is, to discover, grow, understand, and write. She has been published in Fathom Magazine, The Institute for Faith Work and Economics, Unlocking the Bible, Perennial Gen, and iBelieve. She lives near Chicago with her husband, Dan, has three children in different parts of the country and five grandchildren. Connect with Judy on Twitter, @Jud_E_Allen, Instagram, @judylarsonallen, or her blog, connectingdotstogod.com

Lisa Appelo is a speaker inspiring women to cultivate faith in life’s storms and author of Life Can Be Good Again: Putting Your World Back Together After It All Falls Apart. When life shatters and you're navigating a life you didn't sign up for, Lisa provides compassionate, Biblical insight to help you find your footing, process raw emotion, and anchor your threadbare hope to see you won’t merely survive this, but that life can be good again. A former litigating attorney, Lisa is passionate about rich Bible teaching. She writes at the popular site LisaAppelo.com, founded a team of writers at hopeingrief.com, and serves on the Executive Team for COMPEL with Proverbs31Ministries. Lisa's work has been featured on Life Today, Ann Voskamp, Risen Motherhood, Proverbs 31 Ministries, Jennifer Rothschild, (in)courage and more. As a single mom of seven, Lisa’s days are filled with parenting, ministry, and long walks to justify lots of dark chocolate. Connect with Lisa on IG @LisaAppelo.

Connie Armerding is a storyteller. She believes in the power of story and is passionate about communicating the transforming work of the Gospel in a variety of life’s contexts through her writing, speaking and leading. She has worked in public education, the nonprofit sector and extensively in the local church. She currently works as a Content Developer at Joy Of It , Curriculum Writer/Editor for JOI Friendzy. She serves at her local church, Alongsiders Church in Portland, Oregon, as a member of the preaching and teaching team. She is furthering her education at Wheaton College Graduate School (MA- Leadership and Evangelism) in collaboration with Propel Women. Connie is a reader who loves to write stories. She finds great joy in writing down the stories of everyday life. Her published works can be found at TRUTH + LOVE. Connie has been married to her husband, Taylor, for sixteen years and they have four elementary aged children. They live in Lake Oswego, Oregon and love exploring the outdoors.

Jenny Rae Armstrong is an award-winning freelance journalist who writes about faith, social justice, missional living and women’s issues for Christian publications. She is a member of Redbud’s Board of Directors. Jenny lives in Wisconsin with her husband and four children. See more at www.jennyraearmstrong.com.

Lindsay Banton is a writer, speaker and U.S. missionary. She and her husband were born and raised in Virginia, but relocated to north east Connecticut to pioneer a campus ministry at a large state university. This relocation has caused her to improve her boot collection, strengthen her soup making skills, and become well-versed in the world of quality winter gear. Together they have three children and one very large dog. Lindsay writes for a number of homeschool curriculum companies, her fellowship of churches, and a few other blogs here and there. She has a passion for writing and teaching about the topics of true discipleship, raising whole kids, and anything having to do with the life of Jesus. The older she gets, the more she loves children’s books and doing more of the simpler things in life.

Paola Barrera worked in the business world for fifteen years. After a seasoned career in market research and communications, she pivoted to invest her time and skill in words. A writer and speaker, Paola shares how the Bible informs everyday life. She's written articles for Fathom Magazine, Servants of Grace, and Women Encouraged, and led workshops, and spoken at various events in Canada and the US. To spark a thoughtful reflection about life, faith, and theology is her aim when writing or speaking. Born in Venezuela, she spent her formative years between Europe and the United States. She returned to her birth country in her late 20s, where she met her husband. A Third Culture Kid for the first half of her life, she became an immigrant in her 40s. Canadian through the gift of immigration, Paola calls Montreal home, where she lives with her husband Gustavo.

Deb Beddoe is an author, an editor, and a seasoned marketing creative for companies, ministries, and nonprofit organizations. A literature lover and non-judgmental grammar nerd, she’s loving her current gig as bookseller at a startup indie bookstore. In Deb’s first book, The Heart of Recovery: How Compassion and Community Offer Hope in the Wake of Addiction (Revell 2019) she and her husband write about his long battle with pill addiction and offer encouragement with practical wisdom to help revive and restore broken people and families on the other side of crisis. Her current work in progress explores living with the lingering effects of complicated trauma.   Across the water from Seattle, Washington, Deb and her now-pastor husband live on the edge of an empty nest as their four adult children head out into the world, leaving them (of course) with a chunky beast of a dog and two geriatric cats. When she's not reading, writing, or wrangling pets, Deb loves a good adventure, kayaking, crochet, cooking, and attempts at growing things.  Online, you'll find her thinking aloud about what’s pressing on her soul: spiritual disciplines, social justice, her childhood as a missionary kid, costume dramas, and of course, books. She’s also got an Instagram space just for writers: @the_well_writer where she posts about nourishing creativity.

Pacific Northwest naturalist, photographer, and award-winning author Cheryl Grey Bostrom delights in the ways God speaks through his creation. In her weekly posts at CherylBostrom.com she captures surprising and beautiful ways he does—and plants readers in their midst. Her work has appeared in a variety of publications, including The Upper Room Disciplines and the American Scientific Affiliation’s God and Nature Magazine, for which she’s a regular photo essayist. A former columnist for Women of Faith (back in their conference days), she has also authored two non-fiction books: The View from Goose Ridge: Watching Nature, Seeing Life and Children At Promise: Nine Principles To Help Kids Thrive in an At-Risk World, with Dr. Tim Stuart. Her award-winning debut novel Sugar Birds launched in 2021. When Cheryl and her veterinarian husband aren’t visiting kids and grands on opposite coasts, they live in rural Washington State with three irrepressible Gordon Setters.

Rachel is a British-born, author, blogger, and speaker living in the USA. Her passion is leading women in becoming comfortable and confident in their conversation with God. Rachel is a graduate of Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary with a Masters in Religion. She is Executive Content Director for RADIANT NYC, an online magazine equipping young NYC women to live radiant and unashamed. She is co-director of reNEW - retreat for New England Writing and Speaking. Her 501(c)(3) non-profit organization enables Rachel to educate and equip women writers and speakers to effectively share their unique story and message, and reach women without a faith in Jesus. Raised on the east coast of England, Rachel moved to New England in 1995. She now resides in New York City with her husband. They have three young adult children scattered across too many time zones. Rachel cannot live without a mug of English tea.

Kendra Broekhuis is an author, speaker, and intentional neighbor living on the margins in the city of Milwaukee. For her day job, Kendra stays home with four of her children. Her first book is called Here Goes Nothing: An Introvert’s Reckless Attempt to Love Her Neighbor. In 2017, she was the recipient of Dordt University’s Horizon Award, recognizing alumni who are community-minded and entrepreneurial. You can find her sarcastic ramblings and serious encouragement on Facebook, Instagram, and www.kendrabroekhuis.com

Melissa is a writer, licensed therapist, and founder of Thrive Counseling Collective. She has over 10 years of experience as a clinician, specializing in the treatment of trauma, attachment, spiritual issues, and relational conflict with a story-focused, highly interpersonal style. In her writing, Melissa invites her readers to explore the intersection of mental health and faith as they engage their personal stories in light of the redemptive story of Jesus. She is a So-Cal transplant and midwesterner at heart, pastor's wife, and mom to two amazing boys. Connect with her at melissabrownback.com or on Instagram (@melissabrownback).

Heather Caliri writes about the absurdity of normal and the awkwardness of faith. She lives in San Diego with her husband and two kids. Her non-fiction has appeared in Christianity Today, Image Journal, The Other Journal, and In Touch Magazine. Heather Caliri knew she wasn't the artist of her family—until creativity cracked open joy for her. Wonder if you're creative enough? Find YOUR kind of creativity with her personality test for free here.

Marie Chan writes about connecting deeply with Christ and community through life’s challenges. She shares about God giving her diverse motherhood experiences of adopting an older child internationally, conceiving after struggling with infertility, and mourning the stillbirth of her son on her blog, calmmamabear.com. Marie also leads an adoption support group focused on trauma-informed parenting. Being the daughter of Taiwanese immigrants inspired Marie to share stories that highlight hidden figures in Asian American history. Marie’s picture book biography, Mamie Tape: A Chinese American Girl's Fight to Go to School (Harvest House/Ten Peaks Press), will be released in 2024. She lives in California with her husband, two children with a third in heaven, and their giant 12-pound rabbit. Connect with Marie on Instagram @mariechanbooks and mariechan.com

Dorcas Cheng-Tozun is an award-winning writer, an editor, a communications consultant, and the author of two books, Start Love Repeat: How to Stay in Love with Your Entrepreneur in a Crazy Start-up World and Let There d.light: How One Social Enterprise Brought Solar Products to 100 Million People. She has contributed to dozens of publications, including The Wall Street Journal, Inc.com, Image Journal, and Christianity Today. She currently serves as the editor of StoryArc, a publication of Made for Pax, and is working on her third book, Social Justice for the Sensitive Soul. A Silicon Valley native, Dorcas has also lived and worked in mainland China, Hong Kong, and Kenya. She currently esides in the San Francisco Bay Area with her entrepreneur husband and their two adorable hapa boys.

Tatyana Claytor is a mom, teacher, blogger, and historical England enthusiast who would gladly step back into that past, but only for a day and only as a rich person. She loves open windows for fresh air, open doors for new opportunities, and an open heart to hear from God.

Lori Closter is a wife, mom, and grammy who has long dreamed of giving people hope through stories. Raised near Manhattan, she holds degrees from Cornell (BA) and Temple Universities (MA). She was writer/researcher/assistant producer on a series of short films for National Geographic before finding faith and moving to MA. There she homeschooled her three children, co-founded a support group, and started writing. She and her pastor husband ran a summer business in the Thousand Islands, where fabulous sunsets brought rest and inspiration. Now living in coastal NC, they recently self-published her YA novel, Topping the Willow, as a platform for sharing their testimony with young people. She is also seeking a producer for her screenplay of this story, a Kairos Prize finalist listed on Movieguide's Script List.

Melody L. Copenny is a poet, writer, and storyteller. An Atlanta native and Henry W. Grady College of Journalism and Mass Communication graduate, she's become a Floridian thriving in Orlando where she writes to be real, relevant, and reveal. She’s an editor, journalist, and communicator for Cru, an international non-profit organization, where she covers national and international stories of God's work around the world. During 2019, she's completing her last semester as a participant in the Cru Senior Leadership Initiative 7. She also serves as a cultural competency consultant in the organization with The Lenses Institute experience. She enjoys pursuing an intersection of creativity, theology and popular culture in her writing projects. In her down time she likes training for half marathons and learning Afro Fusion dances.

Kendra Dahl is a writer and photographer living in the San Diego area, where she’s slowly pursuing her Masters in Biblical Studies from Westminster Seminary California. Her work has been featured in CT Women, The Gospel Coalition, and Gospel Taboo, where she’s also an editor. Having experienced her own struggles with shame and feeling like an outsider within the church, Kendra is passionate about women's discipleship in the local church and writes to invite women to the healing and freedom found in knowing Christ. She is married to an electrical engineer-turned seminary student and they have three children. You can find her on Twitter and Instagram as @kmdahl11, or at her blog.

Dr. Amy F. Davis Abdallah preaches and teaches for churches, conferences, and other ministries in the United States and internationally. She is Professor of Theology and Bible at Nyack College and especially enjoys taking students to Greece to walk the footsteps of St. Paul. Amy is passionate about encouraging Christian women to expand the Kingdom of God through the educational program Empower as well as a rite of passage for Nyack College Seniors. She is the author of The Book of Womanhood; her writing has been featured in Everbloom, , The Wonder Years, and by Christianity Today, CBE International, Redbud Writers Guild, InterVarsity Fellowship, and Missio Alliance. When she’s not writing or speaking, Amy loves to sit her backyard with family, friends, and yummy food and drink. Her husband and sons are her favorite people and she runs, bikes, hikes, and explores the world with them. Find her on the web at amyfdavisabdallah.com and on twitter @amyfdavisa

Rebecca J Detrick is a teacher, writer, coach, barista, wife, and mom, who attempts to live and love in contagious ways. Rebecca has a Bachelor's Degree in English, a Master's in Education, and strives to write about education, theology, the importance of empathy, and the strivings and strugglings of everyday moments that make up life. She writes most often at www.overaroundandthrough.com; can be found on Twitter @RDetrick1.

Keren Dibbens-Wyatt is a chronically-ill contemplative, writer and artist. She has a passion for prayer, poetry, story and colour. Her writing features regularly in literary journals (including Fathom, Amethyst Review, The Blue Nib) and on spiritual blogs (Contemplative Light, Godspace Light). She is the author of the book Recital of Love (Paraclete Press, 2020). Keren lives in England and suffers from M.E. which keeps her housebound and out of the trouble she would doubtless get into otherwise.

Liz loves to listen to stories, share truth, and write. She lives in the Silicon Valley of California with her handsome techie husband and two wild kiddos. She devours podcasts while folding laundry and considers blog writing a completely valid excuse to leave dishes for the next morning. She is in the process of becoming a Spiritual Director and daily discovers how freedom, love and calling shape the life of a Christ Follower.

Katelyn J Dixon is a writer and photographer from Auburn, Washington. As a writer and poet, her work focuses on beholding the Kingdom of God in unexpected places, exploring the many paradoxes of life and faith, and celebrating the beauty of the Divine all around and within us. Her experience in a former abusive marriage as well as her graduate level training in Counseling Psychology has given her a passion to partner with the Spirit in advocating for abused and trafficked women. Although she never wanted to be married to a pastor, that is the delightful position she now finds herself in and she wouldn’t have it any other way. She has written for Ekstasis Magazine, The Joyful Life Magazine, Renovaré, Vita Poetica, and Heart of Flesh Literary Magazine.

Judy Douglass is a writer, speaker, encourager, advocate. She loves to encourage God’s children—especially His daughters—to be and do all God created them for. She partners with her husband, Steve, to lead Cru/Campus Crusade for Christ globally, speaks all over the world and is the author of six books—the latest is When You Love a Prodigal: 90 Days of Grace for the Wilderness. Known for her “realness,” Judy writes at www.judydouglass.com. You can find her on Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/JeedooDouglass) and follow her on Twitter and Instagram @judydouglass417. She has three children and nine grandchildren.

Dena Dyer is an author, speaker, and coach whose passion is sharing words of humor and hope with weary people. She enjoys coffee, traveling, and British television, and has been married to her hubby Carey for 25 wonderful years (plus a couple they don’t talk about). They have two young adult sons and love leading worship together at their church. Dena definitely spends too much time online or in the fast food drive-through-- but she and the Lord are working on it.

Sara Easterly is an award-winning author of books and essays. Her memoir, Searching for Mom, won a gold medal in the Illumination Book Awards, was a winner in the National Indie Excellence Awards, and garnered a silver medal in the Readers’ Favorite Book Awards. Her essays and articles have been published by Dear Adoption, Feminine Collective, Her View From Home, Godspace, Neufeld Institute, Psychology Today, Red Letter Christians, and the Society of Children’s Book Writers & Illustrators (SCBWI), to name a few. Previously Sara led one of the largest chapters of the SCBWI and was recognized as SCBWI Member of the Year. In addition to her writing pursuits, Sara is a publicist and event planner; the founder of Book Bonding, where she reviews heart-led children’s books; and a trained facilitator with the Neufeld Institute. She is mom to two tenacious daughters and daughter of two amazing moms—both her adoptive mom and her birth mother.

Leah D Everson (MDiv, Denver Seminary) is a Minnesota girl, a book addict, and a messy mama. She divides her time between encouraging new mothers in their walk with God and taking care of her own busy boys. Loved by Jesus, Leah is learning to rest in Him. Leah was the founding director/teacher of The Scum Study Center at Scum of the Earth Church in Denver, CO for five years. Leah blogs regularly at www.leaheverson.com and can be found on Twitter @leahdeverson.

Sara Fichtner is a writer, nonprofit professional, and cultural connector. She is the Director of Grants and Special Projects at The Oaks Academy in Indianapolis and is an active member of the philanthropic community as a volunteer, donor, and mentor. In 2021, she began writing at sarafichtner.com on topics related to connecting people across cultures. Her hope is to publish more writing and collaborate with other writers and creators, focusing on work that is honest, optimistic, and thought-provoking. She is a Filipina-Hoosier and lives in Indiana with her Argentinean husband and their two boys. They are also transitional foster care parents through Bethany Christian Services, supporting children that arrive unaccompanied at the U.S. border.

Kim Findlay is a writer, speaker, and ministry leader. She is the author of Breathing in Ashes, a self-published memoir about the death of her youngest daughter. She has written curriculum for Big Idea, Inc. and David C. Cook. Her writing can also be found with Facets of Faith. Kim earned her B.S. in Special Education with a focus in Deaf and Hard of Hearing. Newly transplanted to the Boston, Massachusetts area, her blended family includes two kids by birth and three kids by choice. Kim blogs at www.abigumbrella.com and www.talesfromablender.net and you can follow her on Instagram at @abigumbrella7.

Mari Fitz-Wynn is a nonfiction author and novelist, and whose talents have carried her across the globe. She teaches and trains people for the prayer ministry at her local church their ministry partners abroad. In 2022 Mari began Faith Journey Publishing to help Christian women writers over the age of forty-five transform a lifetime of difficulties, challenges, risks, surprises and joys into books inspiring readers of all ages, cultures and backgrounds. She enjoys spending time with her adult children, finding clever ways to train her untrainable dog, Ducky.

Sarah loves words. She also loves people. And she loves weaving them together in honest and vulnerable ways that cut underneath the surface and break open the longings of the heart. She is a writer and dreamer whose words breathe hope and wonder into the world. She enjoys being by Lake Michigan and her simple Midwest life with her husband, especially when they blend together on Washington Island. Sarah is the communications manager for Fellowship of Christian Athletes, writes for numerous publications, and is the editor of Awake Our Hearts, an online literary journal for the female voice exploring faith and life in full. She finds God in the everyday, upside down, and in-between moments that make this life real, relatable, and beautiful. Connect with her at www.sarahfreymuth.com or Instagram @sfreymuthawake.

Sharla Fritz has been described as an amazing eye-opening speaker and author. Her books Enough for Now, Waiting, Soul Spa, Divine Design, and Bless These Lips have given thousands of women the tools to dig into Scripture and experience a transformation of their attitudes and heart. With light-hearted stories and thought-provoking applications, she makes Bible study fun and uplifting. Sharla’s articles have appeared at incourage.com, The Mudroom, The Redbud Post, Today’s Christian Woman, Just Between Us, and Lutheran Women’s Quarterly. Stitching her messages with humor and honesty, Sharla speaks to hundreds of women each year at retreats, luncheons, and mom’s groups. Sharla makes her home in the Chicago area where she is also a pastor’s wife, mother, grandmother, musician, and confirmed chocoholic. And if she isn’t sitting at her piano or computer, you might find her stalking fabulous fashion finds at the local resale shop.

Carla Gasser has been speaking, teaching, and writing for over thirteen year. She blogs weekly on her website, At the Crossroads www.carlagasser.com, writes for online magazines, contributes to several faith-based and inspirational blogs, and has self-published two devotionals as well as several e-books. She recently won a Blue Seal award for a short nonfiction article at the Ohio Christian Writers Conference (OHCWC) in November 2017 and will publish a devotional on the Fruit of the Spirit with Bethany House Publishers for release in early 2021. She has been a keynote speaker at women’s retreats, conferences, and outreach events. Carla’s passions are storytelling, teaching, and connection. She believes when people share their stories with authenticity they can encourage, inspire, and challenge one another. Carla writes and speaks about the messy, ordinary, and unexpected ways her life and her faith intersect. She is a work in progress, seeking fellow travelers on the journey.

Dorina Lazo Gilmore-Young is a sought-after speaker, podcaster, former newspaper reporter, and the award-winning author of numerous books, including the coming books, Chasing God’s Glory (Waterbrok Multnomah/PRH), Create in Me a Heart of Mercy (Revell), and Breathing Through Grief (Ink & Willow/Penguin Random House). Dorina leads as the president of the Redbud Writers Guild and the visionary director for Lead Loved, equipping Christian women leaders. She writes for (in)courage by Dayspring and Proverbs 31 Ministries. Dorina is a remarried widow. She and her husband, Shawn, are raising three daughters to be leaders in Central California. Connect with her at www.DorinaGilmore.com

Connie is a blogger, storyteller, and author of Grief Witnessed, an interactive journal for those walking through a season of grief. Her devotional writing has been featured in The Upper Room, The Perennial Gen and Just Between Us magazine. A newbie to art herself, in 2017 Connie began a painting class for women in the retirement village where her elderly mother resides. She loves creating art pieces for these mature women to paint and joyfully anticipates the weekly interaction. Connie is currently the Women’s Ministry Leader at Maple City Chapel in Goshen, Indiana. There, after the passing of her husband, she created, Alone Together, a class for women who are walking through life single, divorced or widowed. She is passionate about women sharing their stories, finding their place of belonging, and trusting God for healing and hope. High school sweethearts, Connie and Jon were married for 46 years. They have four grown daughters and seven beautiful grandchildren. Connie currently resides in Shipshewana with Jon’s dog, Ruby. You can find Connie’s writing at conniegochenaur.com.

Liz Charlotte Grant’s lyrical, raw voice beckons her readers to ask the toughest questions of faith and living. She studied creative writing (Wheaton College, 2009), and has published her nonfiction essays at Patheos, the Curator Magazine, On Faith, Mothers Always Write, Neutrons Protons, and Dappled Things (forthcoming), among others. She speaks about practical, on-the-ground faith issues to Jesus-loving church and MOPs groups. She’s currently editing a literary memoir in which she reckons with the healing power of God as she goes blind in one eye. Liz, her husband, and two wild children live in Denver. Follower her on Instagram and Facebook @LizCharlotteGrant and her website.

Dorothy Littell Greco writes about marriage and family, leadership, race, aging, and theology. She is the author of two books: Making Marriage Beautiful (David C Cook, Jan 2017) and Marriage in the Middle (IVP, winter 2020). She also works as a professional photographer. When she's not at her computer or behind her camera, Dorothy loves to kayak with her husband, bake paleo desserts, and go for long walks on the beach. You can find more of her work on her website or by following her on Instagram, Twitter, or Facebook. She is also a member of The Pelican Project. Twitter @dorothygreco FB: Words&Images by Dorothy Greco Website: dorothygreco.com

Diana Gruver writes about discipleship and spiritual formation in the every day. Her passion is encouraging and nurturing disciples of Jesus, giving them a vision for how He speaks to every aspect of the story of their lives. She holds a M.A. in Spiritual Formation from Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary. Her first book, Companions in the Darkness (IVP, winter 2020), is about individuals in church history who struggled with depression. Diana lives in south-central Pennsylvania, where she can often be found singing in the kitchen with her husband and ever-curious daughter. Diana blogs at www.dianagruver.com and can be found online on Facebook or Twitter.

Ashley Hales holds a PhD in English from the University of Edinburgh, Scotland. She’s a writer, speaker, and hosts The Finding Holy Podcast. Ashley’s married to a pastor and the mother to 4. Her writing has been featured in such places as The Gospel Coalition, Books & Culture, and Christianity Today and she loves speaking around the US. She is the author of Finding Holy in the Suburbs and A Spacious Life. Connect with Ashley at aahales.com or on Instagram and Twitter at @aahales.

Sarah J. Hauser is a writer and speaker living in the Chicago suburbs with her husband and three kids. Through theology, stories, and the occasional recipe, she helps others find nourishment for their souls. She loves cooking but rarely follows a recipe exactly, and you can almost always find her with a cup of coffee in hand. Sarah completed her B.A. and M.A. at Wheaton College. She has written for Coffee + Crumbs, Risen Motherhood, The Rabbit Room, TGC, (in)courage, and more. Find her at sarahjhauser.com, on Instagram (@sarah.j.hauser), and on Facebook (sarahjhauser).

Carlene Hill Byron's writing has appeared in marketing materials on 5 continents, as well as in US newspapers and magazines. For a dozen years, she served Christian nonprofits, including as editor of New England Church Life and The New England Christian. She lives with bipolar disorder, which means people call her "persevering" and "inspiring" just because she shows up. Find her at Carlene Byron, My House has History, Church and Mental Illness and Christian Purpose Blog.

Sharon is a speaker, author, and traveler. She serves as the Director of Missions at Centreville Presbyterian Church, connecting the local church with mission partners worldwide. Her forthcoming book, Mapping Church Missions (InterVarsity Press, September 2018) equips the church to do missions better. Sharon writes regularly for print and digital publications on missions and discipleship. She lives in Virginia with her husband and occasionally-visiting young adult children. Connect with Sharon on Twitter, Pinterest, Facebook or her website.

Taryn grew up in a town with 75 people, three million chickens, several dogs, and two imaginary friends. She went on to live in two other countries and visit a host of others on six continents. Taryn started writing in mid-life and has authored four books: One Degree of Freedom and Two Lights of Hope are young adult historical fiction set in Cold War Romania; Sentenced to Life is the story of a prisoner who finds redemption; and We Wait You: Waiting on God in Eastern Europe is a memoir about her years as a single missionary in Eastern Europe. Taryn and her husband live in a sleepy town in North Carolina. She recently obtained a master's degree in writing and is an adjunct writing instructor at a small university. She has come full circle, minus the imaginary friends.

Katherine James has an MFA in fiction from Columbia University where she received the Felipe P. De Alba merit fellowship. She has studied at Bread Loaf Writer’s Conference, and has work published in the anthology, In the Arms of Words (Sherman Asher, 2005), St. Katherine Review, and other periodicals. Excerpts from her novel, Can You See Anything Now, which was a semi-finalist for the Doris Bakwin Prize, are forthcoming in the anthology, Between Midnight and Dawn, edited by Sarah Arthur (Paraclete Press). One of her short stories was recently chosen as a finalist for a Narrative Prize. Kate and her husband, Rick, have three grown children and are on staff with Cru, a ministry to college students. She blogs at northhillsdrive.com.

Dr. Angelle M. Jones uses the power of the written word to speak light into darkness and to transform the pain of oppression into a weapon of hope. She transcribes the hatred that has been historically spoken and legislated to intimidate and cast fear upon the oppressed, into words that will change the narrative, one hearer, one life at a time. Dr. Jones is an Adjunct Professor of Beloved Community: The Racially Reconciled Church. Dr. Jones is a published author, freelance writer, and editorial coach. Her latest published contributions include Chicken Soup for the Soul: I’m Speaking Now, Black Women Share Their Truth in 101 Stories of Love 2021, and Killins Peer Review-Journal; The Beautiful Struggle – October 2021.

Sherene Joseph is a Third Culture Kid, an aspiring writer, and a storyteller. A wife, mother, and friend, she finds herself at the crossroads of Christianity, Culture & Community. As an immigrant to the United States, she has a unique perspective of how our faith is intertwined with our cultures and the communities we engage with. She is passionate about educating the majority culture about immigrant challenges and ministering to women. Sherene and her husband serve on the Marriage Ministry at their local church, where she also serves as a Deacon. Teaching and writing on various topics, especially from an immigrant cultural perspective, is where she naturally gravitates towards. She is on the women's teaching team at her church. Sherene and her family live in Dallas, TX. They love to travel and try new foods & she is obsessed with British TV in her spare time.

Tasha is a melancholy dreamer, a biracial Korean American storyteller, wife to Matt, mama to three, and likely craving kimchi and fries. She grew up in a multicultural and biracial home with the backdrop of three different countries and continents. Her world has always felt like a cultural collision and she sees the world best through stories and poetry. She is passionate about helping others notice beauty and embrace themselves as wholly beloved image bearers. She writes about everyday life and cultural identity. Writing has always been the way God has led her towards home and the hope of shalom. Tasha is a monthly contributor at (in)Courage. She’s also written for publications like Relevant, The Mudroom, PAX, SheLoves Magazine, MOPs, Think Christian and others. She’s currently working on her first book about identity, faith, and belonging, due to be released in May 2023. Find her on Instagram www.instagram.com/tashajunb or sign up for her monthly(ish) updates at https://bit.ly/3C1JDtb

Jennifer Kinard lives in the rolling hills of Maryland, writing essays and poetry for women in need of a quiet place for soul reflection and refreshment. Her writing is marked by authenticity, warmth, and humor, and she loves to create those magical moments when a reader feels known and understood. A lover of the written word since childhood, she was delighted to discover that working in publishing meant she could actually get paid to read. You can still find her with her nose buried in a book when she isn’t homeschooling her four children and teaching literature to high schoolers. She and her husband, Ken, have been married for 25 years, run a creative agency together, and host a summer arts camp for teens. You can find her online at jenniferkinard.com and on Instagram: @jenkinard_wordlover.

Rev. Noelle Kirchner, M.Div., believes we don't have to live with full schedules and thin souls. A busy mom of three boys, she is passionate about making faith fresh and relevant. Noelle is a graduate of Northwestern University and Princeton Seminary and an ordained Presbyterian minister who has served in churches for over ten years. She has written for places like the TODAY Show Parenting Team, Huff Post Parents, Crosswalk, iBelieve, and (in)courage. Her faith and family cable television show, "Chaos to Calm," features parenting hot topics and has hosted two Emmy Award-winning journalists and four New York Times bestselling authors, including Candace Cameron Bure. Watch her on-demand episodes and sign up for her free devotional e-book by visiting her website, noellekirchner.com. You can also check out her book, "How to Live Your Life Purpose: The Six-Step Journey to God's Best," that launched as a #1 New Release on Amazon and includes end-of-chapter Bible studies.

After writing nine co-authored historical and contemporary novels with best-selling author/husband, Jim, Terri added her award-winning interior designer’s eye to her world of fiction with her last contemporary trilogy—the Project Restoration Series—to which she came naturally, having survived the remodel, renovation, and restoration of three separate personal residences, along with those of her clients. After completing an abridgment of Les Miserables she is writing a devotional—both for Tyndale House—and has also returned to historical fiction. Terri has been blessed with the opportunity to travel extensively internationally. A graduate of the University of Illinois, she taught Interior Design at the college level for eight years, and directed women’s ministries at her church for six years. 100% Italian, she enjoys all things from the culture of her heritage. She on the Board of The Re:New Project, a ministry to refugee women. Terri has served as President of Redbud Writers Guild for the past 6 years.

LARA KRUPICKA is an internationally published parenting journalist and author. She is best known for her Bucket List Life Manifesto and her books, Family Bucket Lists and Bucket List Living For Moms. Lara’s work has been published in dozens of magazines and newspapers including The LA Times, San Diego Family, Family Australia Magazine, Calgary’s Child, and the Chicago Sun Times. She is the events editor for Suburban Family magazine and also serves on the executive board of the Redbud Writers Guild. Lara and her husband Mike are raising their three daughters in the western suburbs of Chicago.

Bethany LaShell is a veteran homeschooler and organizer of everything not nailed down. Her credits include two graduated daughters, a perfectly organized desk, and numerous articles written for various magazines and websites. She has authored a self-published book on homeschooling as well as ebooks on homeschooling, organization, and writing. She has spoken at homeschool conventions and churches on a variety of topics. Bethany's current writing includes Christian living and devotional writings published on various websites as well as with Guideposts. She lives in South Carolina with her cats, where she writes and edits for a local ministry. She enjoys kayaking, hiking, music, reading, and keeping up with friends in her spare time.

Laura is a writer, photographer, teacher, and sometime preacher. She has lots of questions, a few answers, and the need to share them with an unsuspecting world. Her writing explores what faith in Jesus looks like when it collides with “real life” — from the theology of lasagna to the spiritual discipline of knitting. Speaking of knitting, Laura puts her knitting (and praying) skills to work, leading a community Prayer Shawl Ministry that has given hundreds of consecrated shawls to people in need of a reminder that they are loved. In addition to her blog In Ordinary Time (www.inordinarytime.com) Laura has written for the Mudroom and Altarwork,. She is married and lives in Connecticut with her husband Bill and two delightfully crazy cats.

Bronwyn Lea is the author of Beyond Awkward Side Hugs: Living as Christian Brothers and Sisters in a Sex-Crazed World (Thomas Nelson). She is the editor for Propel Women and a pastor at her local church in Northern California. Find out more about her speaking and writing at www.bronlea.com.

Christine Litavsky is the author of Glimpsing Grace in Ordinary Days (CrossLink, 2013) and loves speaking about how God reveals himself in everyday events. Her work has been featured in American Family Magazine, Glancer Magazine, Faithit.com, Christianbiblestudies.com. Aside from writing, her passion includes caring for and ministering to the elderly, especially those struggling with memory decline.

Linda MacKillop earned her M.F.A. degree in creative writing from the Rainier Writing Workshop. She writes fiction and creative nonfiction and works part-time for Tyndale House Publishers. Linda is the author of the novel, The Forgotten Life of Eva Gordon (May 2022, Kregel) and a middle-grade novel, Hotel, Oscar, Mike, Echo (May of 2023 B&H). Linda and her husband live in an emptynest outside of Chicago. Occasionally she blogs at lindamackillop.com.

Lucinda Secrest McDowell, M.T.S., is a storyteller and seasoned mentor who engages both heart and mind while “Helping You Choose a Life of Serenity & Strength.” A graduate of Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary and Furman University, McDowell is the award-winning author of 15 books including Soul Strong, Life-Giving Choices, Dwelling Places, and Ordinary Graces. Lucinda, a member of the Redbud Writers Guild and AWSA, guest blogs monthly for ‘The Write Conversation’ and co-directs the annual spiritual retreat reNEW – retreat for New England Writing & Speaking. Whether building leadership teams, pouring into young mamas, or leading a restorative day of prayer, she is energized by investing in people of all ages. Through “Encouraging Words Consulting” she offers hourly sessions on writing, speaking, and spiritual growth. As a communications teacher, she has served on the faculty of Speak Up Conference, Mount Hermon Christian Writers Conference, Blue Ridge Mountains Christian Writers Conference, Florida Christian Writers Conference, and Asheville Christian Writers Conference. Known for her ability to convey deep truth in practical and winsome ways, McDowell shares words from “Sunnyside” cottage in New England and blogs weekly at www.LucindaSecrestMcDowell.com

Catherine McNiel is an author, writer, editor, and speaker searching for the creative, redemptive work of God in our ordinary lives. She writes to kindle conversations that mingle theology with real life, and open eyes to God’s ongoing presence in our world. Catherine lives in the Chicagoland area with her husband, where they care for three kids, two jobs, and one enormous garden. Catherine has studied and taught Intercultural Studies and Theology, has an MA in Human Service Counseling, and is working on a Master of Divinity at North Park Theological Seminary. Her books include Fearing Bravely: Risking Love for our Neighbors, Strangers, and Enemies; All Shall Be Well: Awakening to God’s Presence in His Messy, Abundant World; and Long Days of Small Things: Motherhood as a Spiritual Discipline which was an ECPA finalist for New Author. Catherine is a sought after writer and speaker; her work has been featured by numerous magazines, websites, churches, and ministries. She’s on the lookout for wisdom, beauty, and iced coffee.

Carolyn Miller is a yellow glasses, yellow shoes wearing scribbler. She’s been reading since she was four and writing since she was 6. Her passion is hidden in her curiosity and her unconventional dialogue; be that in person, or on paper. She’s been a freelance writer, and an editor for others' work, since her freshman year of college and been in ministry since she was 13 (be that nursery, youth leader, church librarian, or missions teacher and board member). Carolyn's heart is that people would look below the surface of their sight and feelings to find and invite God where we least expect or desire Him. She believes writing holds a special ability to dialogue with people even beyond the reach of human connection. And that the Master Storyteller has given us this gift of Word to bring the Kingdom to life within us so that we can walk it out, encouraged in heart and united in love. You can peruse her writing at swallowtalk.wordpress.com

Vina Mogg is a Northwest native, raised in Tacoma, Washington, who graduated from Ohio State University in English Education. After living in Windermere, Florida, for 30 years, she has returned to the Northwest to gaze at Mt. Rainier from her home in Gig Harbor, Washington. For the past seven years she has been writing regarding issues about Alzheimer’s and family on her website, seaglasslife.com.. Recently she published “Messy Edges” in an anthology of essays compiled by Leslie Leyland Fields, 40 Women over 40 on Faith, Aging, Beauty and Strength, “Throw a Hail Mary” in Ruminate Magazine, and poetry on thewritelaunch.com. She has been a guest writer on Huffingtonpost.com, grandparentslink.com, Redbudwriters.com and mudroomblog.com, alzauthors.com, and washingtonpoeticroutes.com. Vina is the mother of four, married for 37 years, with two grandpuppies and a cat.

Michele Morin is a reader, writer, speaker, and gardener who blogs at Living Our Days. She has been married to an unreasonably patient man for 30 years, and together they have four sons, two daughters-in-love, and three adorable grandchildren. Her writing has appeared at Desiring God, The Gospel Coalition, (in)courage, Living By Design, The Perennial Gen, The Englewood Review, and elsewhere around the web. Michele is active in educational ministries with her local church and delights in sitting at a table surrounded by women with open Bibles.

Carrie Morris is a writer, speaker, and psychotherapist living in California's Wine Country with two plump dogs and one skinny cat. Most days are spent trying to figure out how to do the working professional, recently widowed, newly single mother life. But amidst these challenges, she sits back and watches God transform her experiences into something beautiful. She writes and speaks about living authentically and healing in the midst of crisis, transition, and grief. She's working on a memoir of God's persistent presence and what she learned about love, loss, and life when her husband went missing in the wilderness.

Mabel is an author, speaker, Bible teacher, and host of the YouTube podcast, Immigrant Faith Stories. An immigrant from India who has lived in seven cities across the U.S. in fourteen years, she navigates between cultures, feeling at home everywhere and nowhere. In her first book, “Far from Home: Discovering Your Identity as Foreigners on Earth,” which released in July 2022, Mabel draws from her personal experience as an immigrant and examines the lives of biblical heroes to shed light on how we can find purpose and joy as sojourners on earth. She has been a contributor to Guideposts’ All God’s Creatures: Daily Devotions for Animal Lovers since 2022. An award-winning writer, Mabel’s articles have appeared in Upper Room, CBN.com, LeadingHearts.com, and (in)courage.me. Mabel is currently pursuing M.A. in Theological Studies from the Southern Baptist Theological Seminary. She loves gazing at the full moon and napping on a sandy beach, whenever she can. Mabel enjoys reading creative nonfiction, traveling, and dancing. She lives in Silicon Valley with her husband, eleven-year-old son, and a Maltese.

Nilwona Nowlin is a redemptive artist, which means that she strives to create art that moves others toward redemption, restoration, and reconciliation with the goal of helping individuals and communities around the world experience God's shalom. One of the high points of Nilwona’s speaking career is her TEDx North Park University talk, “Hello. I Am a Polymath.” She has also been a speaker and/or presented workshops for Christians for Biblical Equality (CBE), Duke Youth Academy (DYA), the Christian Community Development Association (CCDA), and Deeply Rooted Chicago. She has written for Urban Ministries, Inc. (UMI), Christianity Today, the CCDA, and Covenant Companion. She is also a contributor to Redbud’s Everbloom: Stories of Deeply Rooted and Transformed Lives. In true polymath fashion, Nilwona is a licensed minister, the chair of her church board, a contract chaplain, a member of the CCDA board, and an associate editor for InterVarsity Press (IVP). She holds a master of divinity and a master of arts in Christian formation from North Park Theological Seminary in Chicago. She also has a master’s degree in nonprofit administration from North Park University. Connect with Nilwona on Twitter (@nilwona) or Facebook (TheDreamerSpeaks).

Natalie Nyquist is an editor at HarperCollins Christian Publishing. She learned how to write stronger memoir through proofreading and editing hundreds of book projects, and pulls from that experience to tell stories of memory loss and martial arts. A second-degree black belt in taekwondo, Natalie spins her sword and writes from her native Houston. She is married to an accountant who’s more well-read than she is, and raising a son who loves reading even more than she does.

Richella Parham is a wife, mom, author, and speaker.  She is a Ministry Team and Board member of Renovaré, a ministry that advocates, resources, and models Christian spiritual formation. The author of A Spiritual Formation Primer, Richella writes and speaks about the with-God life, sharing the ways her own journey has been shaped by experiences of suffering as well as joy. Richella and her husband Jack have been married for 30 years and have reared three wild and crazy boys into wonderful young men. Her blog, Imparting Grace, is a celebration of a life filled with the grace of God and the process of creating a home that reflects God’s grace. Connect with her also on Twitter: @richellaparham; Pinterest: Richella Parham; and Instagram: @richellaparham.

Carolyn Miller Parr has a passion for peacemaking with families, churches, nonprofits, and businesses. A former judge, she now helps clients resolve problems without going to court. She co-authored husband Jerry's memoir, "In The Secret Service" (Tyndale). A new book (working title: Love's Way: How Families Can Live in Peace as Parents Age) is due out in January 2019. She's a founding member of Joseph's House (a hospice for homeless men), Mediators Beyond Borders, and The Servant Leadership School in DC. Writing has appeared in USA Today, Ready Magazine, Faith Happenings, Age in Place, and Redbud Post.

Tammy Perlmutter writes about unabridged life, fragmented faith, and investing in the mess, and is the founder and curator of the collaborative blog The Mudroom. She co-founded Deeply Rooted, a Chicago annual worship, creativity, and teaching event for women. Tammy is a Benedictine oblate and a C.S. Lewis Institute Fellow. Her natural habitat is in the woods by some water where you will find her geeking out over lichen, fungi, and insects as a Master Naturalist Intern for the Forest Preserves. Tammy has contributed to two anthologies and has written for Christians for Social Action, The Englewood Review of Books, Paper&String, and The Redbud Post.

Margaret Ann Philbrick serves the Guild as the curator of the Redbud blog on Patheos at https://www.patheos.com/blogs/redbudwritersguild/ She also co-edited and contributed to the Redbud poetry and essay collection, Everbloom, Stories of Deeply Rooted and Transformed Lives (Paraclete Press, 2017). Her first novel, A Minor - A Novel of Love, Music and Memory (Koehler Books, 2014) garnered critical praise, “An emotional story…clear prose…delicately constructed….nuanced characters….breaks the mold.” Kirkus Reviews. Back to the Manger (Singing River Publications, 2009) created with her mother, an oil painter, is now a family Christmas classic with ten years of consistent sales. She and her transgender sibling Carly are featured in the video curriculum for the book, Messy Grace by Caleb Kaltenbach which teaches people how to love authentically amidst lives in transition. Her poems and articles have been featured in numerous anthologies and publications including C.T., Relevant, Ready magazines, The Redbud Post and Patheos on-line. Margaret and her husband live on Lake Mendota in Madison, WI and serve U.W. students from their lighthouse on Langdon, https://www.instagram.com/lighthouseonlangdon/ . She is the mother of three highly dramatic, artistic children and an obsessive compulsive dog, Snuggles.

Arlisia Potter is a writer at heart; starting at a young age, her imagination has taken her through the journeys of poetry, short stories, and to her own blog, Lisi’s Place. She uses her writing to share God’s love, to encourage and inspire others, and to share her Christian journey. A native Floridian, she can be found on the beaches, or on a vacation whenever possible. Her work has been published on Black America Web, in The Redbud Post, and in various contributions at her church. Arlisia is a graduate of The University of Central Florida, in addition to the UCLA Extension Writers’ Program. These days, you can find Arlisia working on her next project. Follow her at www.arlisiapotter.com or on Twitter at @LisiP31 to experience her continued journey into writing and beyond.

Paula Frances is the InterVarsity Associate Area Director for Georgia. Originally from Spartanburg South Carolina, she grew up in Al Khobar, Saudi Arabia, and now lives in Athens, Georgia with her family. She is passionate about people seeing the freedom Jesus provides when his invitation to love all people is taken seriously.

Alyson Pryor is a writer, speaker, Marriage and Family therapist, and mother of 5. She holds degrees in Psychology from both The University of Southern California and Fuller Theological Seminary. She most often covers topics at the intersection of faith and psychology including health, relationships, soul care, mentoring, parenting and crises of faith. Although she has a soft spot for MOPS, you can also find her speaking at conferences, retreats, church services and parenting seminars. She is currently writing a book about implementing the traditional Spiritual Disciplines in the modern family setting. Connect on Instagram @mypryorlife

Amy Rasmussen (formerly Buckley) is a writer, speaker and advocate for women and girls in eastern Uganda through Life Together International (501c3). She has contributed to "The Wonder Years: 40 Women Over 40 on Aging, Faith, Beauty and Strength" (Kregel, 2018), "Dating During the Apocalypse, and Other Conversations On God, Sex, and Life" (Cru Press, 2016), "Overcomer: Breaking Down the Walls of Shame and Rebuilding Your Soul" (Zondervan, Sept. 2015) and "Strengthening Families and Ending Abuse, Churches and Their Leaders Look to the Future" (Wipf and Stock, 2013). She has written articles for RELEVANT, Mutuality, SheLoves.com, PRISM, Shared Justice, Arise, and the Huffington Post blog. Her work has been featured by Scot McKnight, Rachel Held Evans, Sarah Bessey, Sojourners, Patheos, Christians for Biblical Equality, Missio Alliance, The Junia Project, Hello Christian, Bible Belles Podcast, The George Penk Forum/Rhema Radio, WBTV, Biola University, and Azusa Pacific University. Amy founded the Stop the Silence Initiative as an editor for SheLoves.com. The project provided a platform for stories of victims and survivors of domestic and sexual violence (2014); it called for Christian communities to respond with the just and healing love of God. Amy serves as Board Vice President of Life Together International (501 c3). She is a Doctor of Theology/Ministry Candidate via Northwind Theological Seminary.

Stephanie Reeves is a native Californian transplanted to Florida in 1991 when her job with Cru moved her and her husband, David, there. Now Nana to 1 adorable grandson and mother of 3 humans, 1 dog, 2 cats, and multiple fish, Stephanie is a freelance writer and copyediter. She spent nearly 30 years as a writer, editor and copy editor for Cru's former magazine, Worldwide Challenge. Always looking for fodder for her blog, Stephanie spends time on social media and observing the world around her. Her deep desire is that her writing will draw people closer to Jesus. She has been published at FamilyLife.com, The Art of Taleh, and the Redbud Post and is a writer and content editor for Abide, the #1 Christian meditation app.

A recovering night-owl, Amber Mann Riggs now wakes before dawn to write about rest and the renewal of all things. She daylights as a homeschool teacher and chauffeur to her four daughters and is currently collaborating on a home Bible curriculum. Driven by a passion for the church, Amber is also a volunteer worship director and has spent the past 16 years on the leadership team and faculty of an online Bible college. She holds a BA in Youth Ministry and an MA in Curriculum and Instruction, both from Colorado Christian University. For the past nineteen years, Amber has relied on her worship-drummer husband, Bryan, to help her keep in rhythm, both on and off the platform. They are raising their family near Eugene, Oregon. You can find Amber at ambermannriggs.com.

Julia Roller is an author, editor, and speaker. Her books include Mom Seeks God, A Year with God (with Richard J. Foster), 25 Books Every Christian Should Read, A Year with Aslan, Connecting with God, Learning from Jesus, and Prayer and Worship. Julia has a master’s of journalism from the University of California Berkeley’s Graduate School of Journalism and a master’s of theological studies from the Pacific School of Religion. She speaks often to moms’ groups about meeting God in the everyday. She lives in San Diego, CA with her husband, three children and miniature dachshund named Jane Austen. Connect with Julia on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/JuliaLRoller, Twitter @julialroller, and on Pinterest at https://www.pinterest.com/juliaroller/.

Afton Rorvik savors words, flavored coffee, and time outside. As an introvert who loves Jesus, she seeks to love others by living quietly connected. A graduate of Wheaton College, Afton has worked in the publishing industry since 1987. Her work includes editing adult nonfiction books for both first-time authors and best-selling CBA authors, writing numerous articles and profile pieces, and publishing Storm Sisters: Friends through All Seasons (Worthy 2014) and Living Connected: An Introvert’s Guide to Friendship (Iron Stream 2021). She celebrates her marriage of over thirty-five years to her husband John. During those years, they have intentionally cultivated a friendship within their marriage as they raised and launched two children. Today they enjoy practicing restorative hospitality with the many guests who come through their door.

Maggie Wallem Rowe, M.A.B.S., is a national speaker, dramatist, and writer from western North Carolina. Married for 46 + years to her pastor-husband Mike, mother of three, and grandmother to six, Maggie's work includes decades in public relations, adult education, and ministry to women.She has served as an adjunct communications professor at Daniel Webster University (NH) and Wheaton College (IL). Maggie also was employed full-time as Senior Publicist at Tyndale House Publishers for 12 years. Maggie's first book, "This Life We Share", released from NavPress when she was 67 and was a finalist for the 2021 ECPA Christian Book Award in the New Author category. Maggie was also a TEDx presenter in 2021. Her second book, "Life is Sweet, Y’all!" was published by Tyndale House in 2022. She writes from Peace Ridge, her home in the mountains of western North Carolina.

Angie Ryg is a blogger, Bible teacher, writer, and international speaker whose passion is encouraging women to find contentment and purpose right where God has placed them. She reaches out to her community with a sense of humor and a willingness to be open with her struggles. Angie is the author of Clutter Free Simplicity. You can also find her words in the (in)courage Women’s Devotional Bible and Everbloom: Stories of Deeply Rooted and Transformed Lives. She has been published by Christianity Today, (in)courage, Family Matters, and is a contributing writer for Unlocking the Bible. Angie lives just outside of Chicago, Illinois, with her husband, their four kids, and the sweetest answered prayer, a little Shihpoo named Maddie. As a family, they love to go on adventures, play games, watch movies, and rewatch The Gilmore Girls as much as possible. Find out more about her speaking and writing at http://www.angieryg.com.

Aubrey Sampson, M.A. Evangelism and Leadership, is the author of Known: How Believing Who God Says You Are Changes Everything (NavPress, 2021), The Louder Song: Listening for Hope in the Midst of Lament (NavPress 2019) and Overcomer: Breaking Down the Walls of Shame and Rebuilding Your Soul (Zondervan, 2015). She has several more books on the way. Aubrey and her husband and three sons are church planters in the Chicago area, where Aubrey serves on the preaching team. As a writer and speaker, Aubrey is passionate about the church having a less anemic theology of suffering and offers incredible perspective in the midst of trying experiences. She is also a regular contributor to Propel Women and Christianity Today. Connect with Aubrey @aubsamp.

Margot Starbuck, speaker and award-winning author, is passionate about communicating to individuals that they have been made for life that really is life. A graduate of Westmont College and Princeton Seminary, Margot is the author of The Girl in the Orange Dress, Unsqueezed and Small Things With Great Love. In Durham, North Carolina, Margot lives with her husband and three children, by birth and adoption. She serves as a volunteer among friends with and without disabilities through Reality Ministries. Convinced that God is with us and for us, in the person of Jesus, Margot inspires audiences to live love in the world. Learn more about Margot’s literary consulting at wordmelon.com, or connect at MargotStarbuck.com or on facebook.

Michelle Stiffler is a Certified Trauma Specialist with years of experience in nonprofit work. She is also a trainer, leader, and podcast co-host within the Arizona Trauma Informed Faith Community. A former teen mom and single mom, Michelle is passionate about helping women work through crisis as well as work through residual trauma in the body after adversity. As a fitness enthusiast and Certified Barre Instructor, she often relies on fitness imagery to nurture a broader understanding and application of spiritual disciplines, physical release, and trauma informed practices. Simple hobbies keep her balanced – early morning prayer, catching the sunrise, baking bread, bike rides to coffee shops with her husband, and time spent with her four kids (2 teens, 2 adults), 2 sons in law, and grandson. She writes about crisis, responsive faith, and restorative practices at www.onemoretruth.com. Michelle’s work has been featured with Fathom, (in)courage, Guideposts, Ruminate, Just Between Us, The Joyful Life, Truly Co, Joy of It, Mudroom, and others, and she is a contributing writer for the Women’s Devotional Bible in The Message (2024). Find her on Instagram @onemoretruth.

Amanda Taylor lives and writes in Newnan Georgia just south of Atlanta. She makes her home with her husband and house of animals, college daughter and foster children. Amanda writes about life, faith and all the joy and mess that comes with that at TingleTaylor. She loves to share her messy stories in hopes that others will find joy, affirmation and hope in reading them. During the day she teaches art to 500+ wild elementary school children! You can find her writing over at SheLoves Magazine,The Mudroom and A Voice In The Noise. She welcomes everyone to join her life over at Instagram Twitter and Facebook

Stephanie is a graduate of North Park Theological Seminary and an ordained pastor of the Evangelical Covenant Church. Her writing explores the sacred connections to God and each other. Her pieces have appeared on Mudroom blog, The Mighty, Her View From Home, Crosswalk, The Art of Taleh and Perennial Gen. In addition, her passion for those affected by mental illness finds itself woven into some of her writing. Originally hailing from Michigan, Stephanie lives in Mokena, Illinois with her husband and is mom to three young adults. A speaker at various venues, she can be followed on her blog, Twitter @s2thomp and facebook: https://www.facebook.com/StephanieThompsonspeakerAndBlogger/ .

Brooke Turbyfill is a freelance writer and editor who lives in a quiet area of North Georgia with her husband and two kids. She has written for Faith Social, The Salvation Army, In Touch Ministries, and Faithbridge Foster Care. Brooke also edits books by authors of many genres: YA, fantasy, thrillers, and more. Her most recent writing project is an almost-finished draft of a middle grade magical realism novel. She hasn't let her middle-grade children read it just yet, and it's killing them with anticipation. Find her at www.brooketurbyfill.com and at https://www.instagram.com/brooke_turbyfill/

Prasanta is a writer, poet, and artist. She is passionate about making the way for diverse voices and writes about culture, belonging, and identity. She was born under an Asian sun, raised in the Appalachian foothills in the southern U.S., and currently resides in the upper Midwest. She holds an MBA and an MPH and served as a volunteer high school debate coach for many years. Prasanta is a regular contributor at The Mudroom Blog, and has been published at Propel Women, The Curator, (in)courage, Sojourners, The Perennial Gen, Relief Journal, Bramble Lit Mag, and others. You can follow her on Twitter @VermaPrasanta, Instagram @prasantaverma, and her website at prasantaverma.com.

Nicole T. Walters is a writer who lives somewhere in the tension between wanderlust and rootedness. She makes her home in Georgia with her husband and two children but has lived and left parts of her heart in the Middle East and South Asia. She holds a degree in Religion from the University of Georgia and a Masters in Practical Theology from Winebrenner Theological Seminary. She is researching spirituality in the Episcopal church as she pursues her Doctor of Ministry. She writes to help people create space to listen to God, learn from others, and lead lives that love at NicoleTWalters.com. She has authored essays in several books including Redbud's own Everbloom and her writing has appeared in places like CT Women, Fathom, Red Letter Christians, SheLoves Magazine, (in)courage, and The Mudroom. You can follow Nicole on Twitter and Facebook..

Julie Pray Walton is a retired college professor from northern Michigan who writes about the challenges of navigating the real and metaphoric wildernesses of life. She plumbs the wisdom of faith and the necessity of friendship and community for living a life of purpose and service. Her writing is rooted in her award-winning teaching and a lifetime of outdoor adventure. She is also the author of a blog book called Shared Table Blessings which you can find at sharedtableblessings.wordpress.com. She warmly invites you to pitch your tent with her, and delve into some important areas of life and faith. Most of all, she welcomes your comments and prayers

Melanie Weldon-Soiset is a poet, MDiv graduate, contemplative prayer leader, #ChurchToo spiritual abuse survivor, and former pastor at a church for foreigners in Shanghai. At the end of the day, however, her epitaph will say "child of God." Until then, find her in real life biking on local DC greenways, or getting comfy with house slippers. Follow her blog, and/or sign up for her newsletter on poetry and prayer resources, at melanieweldonsoiset.com

Sarah M. White is a bilingual fiction author and educator based in Madison, WI. Her work has appeared in Highlights High Five magazine. Her books for Spanish education classrooms include Entre las nubes altas and the forthcoming La vaca Lola y otros cuentos and El pato tiene más. She studied writing at Wheaton College and is a member of SCBWI. She and her husband have two young daughters and a black lab.

Darcy Wiley is a writer and spiritual director who cultivates empathy, imagination, and a profound experience of God in the world. As co-writer of The Yes Effect: Accepting God’s Invitation to Transform the World Around You, Darcy worked with the founder of the 10/40 Window Movement to share stories of renewal and reconciliation in communities all over the globe. Her second co-writing project, Hearing in Technicolor: Mindset Shifts within a Multicultural Congregation, tells the transformation story of a multicultural church in the Atlanta area. Darcy is a thoughtful listener who companions readers and directees toward emotional, spiritual, and cultural flourishing. She enjoys hiking at state parks, tending her edible garden, dabbling in abstract art, and making music with her drummer husband and friends. She lives and serves in the Indianapolis area where she and her husband are raising three high-energy kids to be curious and compassionate citizens of the world. Connect with Darcy on Instagram @DarcyWiley and at darcywiley.com.

Melie Williams is a writer, editor, and audiobook narrator, which means she is completely immersed in books and wouldn't have it any other way! She has written for various faith based online and print publications, and is currently working on a book that explores living authentically and being a light even during a dark time. While a painful situation is what prompted her back to writing after a hiatus, she chooses to dwell in joy, and believes that finding the humor in any situation is possible. Her blog can be found at meliewilliams.com where she writes with equal amounts of sunshine and sass.

Dorena Williamson is a Preacher's Kid, First Lady, and longtime bridge-builder. In 1995 she and her husband planted multiracial Strong Tower Bible Church in Nashville. Whether it's in the Bible, in books, or on the big screen, Dorena loves the power of a good story, and she writes children's books that adults need too. She also enjoys empowering women as a stylist with national brand Evereve. With two kids married and two graduated, her family life has moved into exciting new seasons. After 30 years of marriage, she and Chris still love thinking about their next vacation destination.

Chelle Wilson is a writer, speaker, and having made peace with uneasiness and most of her fears, an unflinching advocate for social justice. She writes because ambiversion allow her to be in the world, but not quite of it. She writes because it grants her time and space to understand how she feels about the world. Her capacity for swearing when necessary to get the reader’s attention is indicative of her commitment to the precise word for each situation. She envisions a world where each of us embraces the Perfect, Precise Image of God that we are naturally, at every given moment, even as each of us exists in a liminal state. She fights with God and always loses, laughs often, and never gives up. Find her words at Evolution of a #HolyBadass, The Mudroom, and in the pages of the (in)courage Devotional Bible. Follow her on Facebook, Twitter, & Instagram

Sheila Wise Rowe holds a Masters degree in Counseling and has over twenty-five years of experience as a gifted writer, teacher, speaker, artist, spiritual director, life coach, and counselor. Sheila is passionate about helping people heal and overcome past or current pain, obstacles, and encouraging emerging and established leaders to go to the next level. Sheila has served in the USA, France and for over ten years as a missionary and lay pastor in Johannesburg, South Africa. She currently lives in Massachusetts with her husband Dr. Nicholas Rowe and is the mother of two college-age children. Sheila has written for The Redbud Post, Mudroom, READY! magazine and The Art of Taleh. She is the author of; Healing Racial Trauma: The Road to Resilience (IV Press) to be released January 7, 2020. The book exposes the symptoms of racial trauma to lead readers to a place of freedom from the past and new life for the future. In each chapter, Sheila includes an interview with a person of color to explore how we experience and resolve racial trauma. With Sheila as a reliable guide who has both been on the journey and shown others the way forward, you will find a safe pathway to resilience. Sheila is the co-author of, The Well of Life, an emotional healing book that has impacted the lives of individuals, couples, and groups worldwide. Sheila has also co-launched The Cyrene Movement an online space for people of color to heal from racial trauma, realize their potential and reconcile communities. For more information: Visit: www.SheilaWiseRowe.com, www.TheCyreneMovement.com www.facebook.com/swiserowe www.Facebook.com/TheWellofLifeBook/ Email: info@sheilawiserowe.com

Nichole Woo writes at the confluence of belonging and a life that nudges her to the edges. She’s been the only girl on the team, the fumbling foreigner at the coffee shop, and the only mom she knows who coexists with an OCD diagnosis and a dirty kitchen. A graduate of Wheaton College (B.A., History), Nichole earned a M.A. in Speech-Communication from Colorado State University. She’s written for Red Tent Living, SheLoves Magazine, The MOPS Blog, among others — and is an editor and regular contributor at The Mudroom. She calls the Rockies home, where she’s happiest on their edges, pretending to be a Colorado native despite her flatland origins. Connect with her at: https://walkthenarrows.com/, Instagram: (walk_the_narrows), and Facebook: @walkthenarrows.nicholewoo.

April Yamasaki is an ordained minister with 25 years of experience in pastoral ministry. She is currently Resident Author with a liturgical worship community, editor of a quarterly devotional magazine for the Mennonite Church, and speaks widely in churches and other settings. She is the author of Four Gifts; Seeking Self-Care for Heart, Soul, Mind, and Strength; Sacred Pauses: Spiritual Practices for Personal Renewal; and other books on Christian living. Her main website is Writing and Other Acts of Faith, where she writes on Scripture, prayer, and acts of faith in everyday life. Her second website is When You Work for the Church: the good, the bad, and the ugly, and how we can all do better, with a focus on ministry in churches and other Christian organizations. You can also find her on Twitter @SacredPauses, and on Facebook.