Declare

Meet Jenn Jenn Sprinkle is a lot of things.  She is a creative, a graphic designer, a speaker and a writer as well.  She is an idea girl who grabs fellow dreamers and doers to form community.  You’re really going to love this episode and her wisdom regarding obedience versus outcome and how she re-framed her view of success. What we chat about: * how to uncover your “why” * How she discovered where her god-given burden and her personality intersected * tips for the first time Declare attendee (or the introverted attendee) Links mentioned: Strengths Finder Where to find Jenn website :: facebook :: instagram :: twitter  How to Listen to the Declare Conference Podcast: 1. Listen on the blog. Go to DeclareConference.com and click the play button at the beginning of this post (on your computer. . .doesn’t work on smartphones). 2. Listen on your smartphone, iPad or iPod Touch – There are a lot of great podcasting apps. Apple has a free one in the app store, there is also one called Downcast. It allows you to search for shows, subscribe to them and even speed up the audio. 3. Subscribe to the Podcast – access the podcast in iTunes (click here). You can also search for it on your smartphone app (like the ones listed above) and subscribe.

  Meet Lara: Lara Williams is a girl who has walked through the valleys of death, addiction, and betrayal.  As a result, however, she has first-hand experience of the miraculous way God brings victory.  There is something so refreshing about being around someone who has seen God proven faithful in hard places.  They serve as reminders of what is eternally True.  Lara is that girl. Can’t wait for you to meet her at Declare! What we chat about: * How she found a writing mentor * The process of finding her voice as a writer * Her “bloggers blogging crisis” and what she learned Links mentioned: Amy Lynn Andrews Newsletter Where to find Lara: Blog :: Facebook :: Instagram :: Twitter How to Listen to the Declare Conference Podcast: 1. Listen on the blog. Go to DeclareConference.com and click the play button at the beginning of this post (on your computer. . .doesn’t work on smartphones). 2. Listen on your smartphone, iPad or iPod Touch – There are a lot of great podcasting apps. Apple has a free one in the app store, there is also one called Downcast. It allows you to search for shows, subscribe to them and even speed up the audio. 3. Subscribe to the Podcast – access the podcast in iTunes (click here). You can also search for it on your smartphone app (like the ones listed above) and subscribe.

Meet Kat: If you’ve been around Declare for any length of time, you know Kat Lee.  She’s the mastermind behind Inspired to Action and Hello Mornings.  She’s a mom to three kids, a music lover and a runner.  She has a knack for organizing ideas and she’s coming back to Declare this year to close out the conference.  She will be walking us through the process of turning the things we learn at Declare into actionable steps in our actual lives.  I personally can’t wait to hear more about that! What we talk about: * The process she just finished of writing her book proposal * The concept of an upside-down kingdom * Two reasons the ipad mini is her favorite new tool * Several new apps that help you stay on task Links mentioned: Forrest App Trello Ulysses The One Thing by Gary Keller  Where to find Kat: Hello Mornings :: Inspired to Action :: Instagram :: Facebook :: Twitter How to Listen to the Declare Conference Podcast: 1. Listen on the blog. Go to DeclareConference.com and click the play button at the beginning of this post (on your computer. . .doesn’t work on smartphones). 2. Listen on your smartphone, iPad or iPod Touch – There are a lot of great podcasting apps. Apple has a free one in the app store, there is also one called Downcast. It allows you to search for shows, subscribe to them and even speed up the audio. 3. Subscribe to the Podcast – access the podcast in iTunes (click here). You can also search for it on your smartphone app (like the ones listed above) and subscribe.

Meet Emily: Emily P. Freeman is a wife and mom, and author of several books you’ve likely read, and little known fact, she is also a sign language interpreter!  She’s blogger for the better part of a decade and she has some insightful pointers to share today along with a special offer just for Declare Podcast listeners! What we chat about: * Pitching book proposals * Book writing as a jet/ Blog writing as a helicopter * Choosing your absence * Morning pages (her daily writing exercise) * The importance of narrowing your audience Connect with Emily: Hope Writers // Blog // Instagram // Twitter // Facebook Links Mentioned: Hope Writers How to Listen to the Declare Conference Podcast: 1. Listen on the blog. Go to DeclareConference.com and click the play button at the beginning of this post (on your computer. . .doesn’t work on smartphones). 2. Listen on your smartphone, iPad or iPod Touch – There are a lot of great podcasting apps. Apple has a free one in the app store, there is also one called Downcast. It allows you to search for shows, subscribe to them and even speed up the audio. 3. Subscribe to the Podcast – access the podcast in iTunes (click here). You can also search for it on your smartphone app (like the ones listed above) and subscribe.

What would you do if your country had been in civil war for 25 years? If you were left in the aftermaths of a war-torn country with a tarp and a bag of wheat, how would you survive? What skills do you have? What goods could you sell in order to feed your family? Where would you get the money to start your business?  In the South Sudan, over 1600 individuals have found hope in the form of micro-finance loans from Seed Effect, a Declare Conference sponsor. A $150 loan can change the game for a mom in South Sudan. Today I’m chatting with Missy Williams, co-founder of Seed Effect. She shares the ways they are working with the South Sudan community to rebuild and revive. As writers, bloggers, internet-ers we have the privilege of using our online spaces to spread the word about what God is doing around the world. Seed Effect would love to partner with individuals from the Declare community. They would be honored to have you share the stories of loan recipients on your blogs or social media outlets. If you want to work with Seed Effect and be a voice, then email Missy@SeedEffect.org to discuss opportunities. What we chat about: * What is microfinance * What kind of accountability and training do they give loan recipients * Why are they in South Sudan * Why are 70% of loan recipients women * What can you do to support Seed Effect * How can bloggers get involved declaring the stories and work of Seed Effect Connect with Seed Effect: Home missy@seedeffect.org Links Mentioned: * Seed Effect Team * Seed Effect Clients (loan recipients) * Becoming a Seed Effect Advocate How to Listen to the Declare Conference Podcast: 1. Listen on the blog. Go to DeclareConference.com and click the play button at the beginning of this post (on your computer. . .doesn’t work on smartphones). 2. Listen on your smartphone, iPad or iPod Touch – There are a lot of great podcasting apps. Apple has a free one in the app store, there is also one called Downcast. It allows you to search for shows, subscribe to them and even speed up the audio. 3. Subscribe to the Podcast – access the podcast in iTunes (click here). You can also search for it on your smartphone app (like the ones listed above) and subscribe.

Every day young women and girls are being fed lies about who they are and who they need to be. Thankfully, today’s podcast guest (& Declare Sponsor) Janelle Knox from MICI Magazine is using her story to reshape theirs. Janelle hopes to give girls a new perspective of who they are. To make sure they know how they are Made In Christ’s Image.  Like it says on her site: If you are wondering, “Do I matter? Am I valued? Am I loved?”, there is One who will always answer, “more than you’ll ever know.” In today’s episode get to know Janelle a bit better, learn some fab new Aussie words, and hear about the ministry of MICI Magazine. Most importantly be reminded of who you are in Christ. What we chat about: * How Janelle. . .all the way in Australia. . .found the Declare Conference * What Janelle means when she says, “spiro”, “ring in” & “mawka” * What prompted her to start MICI magazine * How Janelle’s history directed her present ministry * Why we all need to go visit her in Australia Connect with Janelle: Home Links Mentioned: * Andrea Howey – Instagram * Genesis 1:26 “Then God said, “Let us make mankind in our image, in our likeness. . .” * MICI Girls — for 9 to 16 year old girls How to Listen to the Declare Conference Podcast: 1. Listen on the blog. Go to DeclareConference.com and click the play button at the beginning of this post (on your computer. . .doesn’t work on smartphones). 2. Listen on your smartphone, iPad or iPod Touch – There are a lot of great podcasting apps. Apple has a free one in the app store, there is also one called Downcast. It allows you to search for shows, subscribe to them and even speed up the audio. 3. Subscribe to the Podcast – access the podcast in iTunes (click here). You can also search for it on your smartphone app (like the ones listed above) and subscribe.

Our Declare community wants to know God and make Him known. We make Him known in a variety of ways. Through how we live our lives. Through typing out a message. Or through the spoken word. What if you feel called to do the latter. . .to speak? What steps should you take to pursue that calling? Well, you’re in luck because the fabulous Chrystal Evans Hurst is sharing some tips and encouragement on how to begin speaking publicly. You also get a couple bonus pep talks. One about trusting God to bring the right opportunities. And another about living out your story instead of coveting someone else’s end product. Chrystal is a wise woman with loads of experience and insight. Couldn’t be more excited to have her keynoting this year. (And she also hosts her own podcast. . .make sure you check it out here). What we chat about: * What Chrystal may be scheduling at the Cooper Clinic after the conference * How God gave Chrystal the push into speaking and writing * Chrystal’s advice for those who want to start speaking publicly * The benefits of living out your own story instead of pursuing someone else’s * Being content with our voice and our current opportunities, not letting other’s product distract us from our process. * How God brings opportunities, we don’t need to orchestrate them * Is the She Speaks Conference for you * How to bloom & grow where you are   Connect with Chrystal: http://ChrystalEvansHurst.com Links Mentioned: * Sally Clarkson * Priscilla Shirer * SCORRE conference * “Bird by Bird” by Anne Lamont * Toastmaster’s group * She Speaks Conference * “The War Room” movie How to Listen to the Declare Conference Podcast: 1. Listen on the blog. Go to DeclareConference.com and click the play button at the beginning of this post (on your computer. . .doesn’t work on smartphones). 2. Listen on your smartphone, iPad or iPod Touch – There are a lot of great podcasting apps. Apple has a free one in the app store, there is also one called Downcast. It allows you to search for shows, subscribe to them and even speed up the audio. 3. Subscribe to the Podcast – access the podcast in iTunes (click here). You can also search for it on your smartphone app (like the ones listed above) and subscribe.

We all have our ‘thing’. Something that so fits our giftedness & strengths it doesn’t feel like ‘work’. When you are trying to decide where to focus, given all these online opportunities, it helps to remember what you love most. Your ‘thing’. For today’s guest, Kristen Kill, after blogging shifted away from family sharing. . .she went back to her editing and writing roots. Now Kristen edits for a couple of contributor sites. She also found a way to combine her passion for motherhood & her joy in sharing great stuff. While living in NYC she (& her kiddos) help promote marketing campaigns from major brands & events. Pretty awesome! Kristen will be leading a main session at the Declare conference. She is also co-hosting a lab with Emily Thomas on Blog to Small Business and Monetization. REMEMBER DON’T MISS YOUR CHANCE TO GET A LAB TICKET!!! (click here for more info). (I’m serious. I don’t want to get all-the-emails about how you missed the chance to get a lab ticket!!) What we chat about: Kristen’s adjustment to life in Mahattan Moving from print to online writing The shift from family blogging to curated content sites What attracts us extroverts to Instagram & microblogging Kristen’s work in editing contributor blogs and corporate blogging How Kristen was asked to be the editor for a contributor blog What introduced Kristen to blogging for corporations (which are fun for her family too) What Kristen will share in the Small Business & Monetization Lab at Declare Connect with Kristen: http://www.hopewithfeathers.com/ Links Mentioned: * Attack Poverty * The Better Mom * For the Family * Sally Clarkson * Psalm 92 * Ruth Schwenk * Maisie Dobbs Mysteries–Jacqueline Winspear * All the Light We Cannot See–Anthony Doerr How to Listen to the Declare Conference Podcast: 1. Listen on the blog. Go to DeclareConference.com and click the play button at the beginning of this post (on your computer. . .doesn’t work on smartphones). 2. Listen on your smartphone, iPad or iPod Touch – There are a lot of great podcasting apps. Apple has a free one in the app store, there is also one called Downcast. It allows you to search for shows, subscribe to them and even speed up the audio. 3. Subscribe to the Podcast – access the podcast in 

I asked today’s guest: “If you lived on another planet which had more than 24 hours/day what would you do with that extra time?” Her answer fits her heart. Cari Trotter would want more time to look at you. Really see you. Prolonged eye contact. (Well, that or flip through a magazine. . .;)). Cari (and her whole Trotter Tribe) love people. She would love to have y’all in her home to sip coffee and chat about our amazing God. Since that’s not possible to do with the pace of everyone’s lives or obvious logistical challenges, Cari has created online video Bible study series (such a brilliant idea!). She wants to “catch you where you are”. . .carpool line, grocery store, or kitchen table. . .and connect over God’s Word. On today’s episode we talk a little about her life as a coach’s wife and a little about how she found the Declare Conference. At the end of the episode Cari shares some great tips for creating videos. What we chat about: * What Cari’s learned moving into one of the wealthiest communities in the world * How her family serves and ministers as a coaching family * Cari’s crazy story of finding Declare and leaving a house full of moving boxes to attend * How Cari just kept saying ‘yes’, even in the face of vulnerability “When everything around you speeds up, it’s even more important to slow the pace of your spirit” * Why Cari decided to do a video Bible study series * The most successful video length for her purposes * What equipment and set-up Cari uses for filming her videos * Her advice for getting started doing videos * How Cari’s husband helps her with the filming (brilliant!) * This nugget of wisdom: “We’ve grown to realize the importance of the intangibles. . . those things that money can’t buy. Family time. Deep community relationships. The things that say, ‘I see you. I hear you and I really do love you.'” Connect with Cari: http://www.caritrotter.com/ Links Mentioned: * Seed Company * Cari’s Bible Study Videos * Cari’s store–bible study booklets Have you ever considered using videos as a part of your online ministry ? How to Listen to the Declare Conference Podcast: 1. Listen on the blog. Go to DeclareConference.com and click the play button at the beginning of this post (on your computer. . .doesn’t work on smartphones). 2. Listen on your smartphone, iPad or iPod Touch – There are a lot of great podcasting apps. Apple has a free one in the app store, there is also one called Downcast. It allows you to search for shows, subscribe to them and even speed up the audio. 3. Subscribe to the Podcast – access the podcast in iTunes (click here). You can also search for it on your smartphone app (like the ones listed above) and subscribe.  

Numbers and followers and platform. . . can leave us feeling empty. Especially if they become the source of our significance. Being a part of the online world requires us to frequently check-in and ask ourselves questions. Why do I write online? What is my purpose? (and then the hardest part. . .answering honestly) Today’s podcast guest, Ashley Linne helps remind us of who we are in Christ. And by knowing who He is then remembering who we are in Him, we find contentment in His significance. We also spend time chatting about her Inscribed Studies book, “Inseparable”. And the concept behind this new Bible Study collection. What we talked about: * Putting aside the measuring sticks and figuring out why you write * How Ashley unconventionally published her book with Inscribed Studies * The goal of the Inscribed Studies–no spoon feeding but training * The hard work and challenges of writing a book * The impact of knowing who we are in Christ * How a cell phone would change “Friends” episodes * Thinking through the ‘why’ and ‘what for’ of social media Connect with Ashley: Home Links mentioned: * Inscribed Collection * Living So That by Wendy Blight * Wendy Blight’s interview on the GodCenteredMom podcast * Inseparable study Do you struggle to remember your true significance? What tangible things remind you? How to Listen to the Declare Conference Podcast: 1. Listen on the blog. Go to DeclareConference.com and click the play button at the beginning of this post (on your computer. . .doesn’t work on smartphones). 2. Listen on your smartphone, iPad or iPod Touch – There are a lot of great podcasting apps. Apple has a free one in the app store, there is also one called Downcast. It allows you to search for shows, subscribe to them and even speed up the audio. 3. Subscribe to the Podcast – access the podcast in iTunes (click here). You can also search for it on your smartphone app (like the ones listed above) and subscribe.

There are so many good things we could do online. I mean, think about all the Declare speakers I’ve already interviewed this year? We’ve heard about: Newsletters. Podcasts. Small Businesses. Micro-blogging. Facebook pages. Contributor sites. . . But we can’t (nor shouldn’t . . .) do them all. So…. How do we accomplish the thing we feel called to do? What should we sacrifice in order to follow that calling? Today’s podcast guest and Declare alum, Kat Lee, shares her own story of focusing and sacrificing. If you are feeling overwhelmed by too many options or want to pursue bigger opportunities, then Kat’s advice will inspire you to narrow in on the essential goal & follow it singularly. What we talked about: * What Kat has been up to since last year’s Declare Conference * Figuring out what to let go of, to focus your energy and succeed. * How Kat is moving her online ministry into her real life * The challenge of giving up good things we do, to pursue the great things * Being brave to take a risk and invite others on the journey * If you want something, you may need to start it * Why Kat & I want more of you to start podcasting * How we may put together a dodge ball tournament for Friday night of the conference “Success comes not simultaneously, but sequentially.” -Gary Keller “Anytime you want to be successful in something you are going to have to make big choices.”-Kat Lee Connect with Kat: Home Links we mention: * 2014 Declare Conference Podcast with Kat {Ep 2} * Inspired to Action podcast * How They Blog Podcast—Blog planning kit * Hellomornings Challenge—sign up now for the next 6 week session! * Our Mastermind Group * Essentialism by Greg McKeown * The One Thing by Gary Keller * Audible app What is God calling you to pursue? What is He asking you to sacrifice & set aside? How to Listen to the Declare Conference Podcast: 1. Listen on the blog. Go to DeclareConference.com and click the play button at the beginning of this post (on your computer. . .doesn’t work on smartphones). 2. Listen on your smartphone, iPad or iPod Touch – There are a lot of great podcasting apps. Apple has a free one in the app s...

Yes, you may have started off ‘just’ writing online. But what if you feel God calling you to a new thing? A book? A retreat? A contributor site? Well, today’s podcast guest, Kris Camealy, has followed God’s lead and done all three. In this episode Kris vulnerably shares her struggle with pride and the journey of trusting God while entering new territory. A journey which led her to a new role as “door holder”. Get ready to be inspired to try something new. . . not leaning on your strengths, but in spite of your weaknesses. What we chat about: * How Kris’ private blog “blew up” giving her the final push to go public. * The heart behind Kris’ book, “Holey, Wholly, Holy” (link below). * Her desire for a silent retreat which turned into her leading the Refine retreat. * How God told her to “hold the door” and what came out of that command. * The joys and challenges of running a contributor blog since Kris is a “pantster”. * What Kris hopes to get from her time at Declare Conference * Kris answers the Declare Community question, “How do you grow online friendships?” * Comparing bloggers and connections to Freshman and Seniors in High School. Connect with Kris: http://kriscamealy.com  Links Mentioned: * Featured Sponsor: Mary & Martha * Mary & Martha mugs & tray * Holey, Wholly, Holy: A Lenten Journey of Refinement * Grace Table Site * High Calling What new territory has God called you to enter? How to Listen to the Declare Conference Podcast: 1. Listen on the blog. Go to DeclareConference.com and click the play button at the beginning of this post (on your computer. . .doesn’t work on smartphones). 2. Listen on your smartphone, iPad or iPod Touch – There are a lot of great podcasting apps. Apple has a free one in the app store, there is also one called Downcast. It allows you to search for shows, subscribe to them and even speed up the audio. 3. Subscribe to the Podcast – access the podcast in iTunes (click here). You can also search for it on your smartphone app (like the ones listed above) and subscribe.

Want to know another great thing about the Declare Conference? Yes, you will be inspired. Yes, you will worship God.  Yes, you will connect with other bloggers. But you will also be given practical tips and tangible tools to use when you get home. Today’s podcast guest, Holly Homer, is a lab speaker sharing her wisdom and “strategery” skills. (In just one year and four days she gained 1 million Facebook followers! wowzers!) Holly’s fun personality and warm nature plus her knowledge and experience make for a slam dunk combination. AND Holly loves helping the Declare Community. . .she was one of our original Mama’s Write speakers. If you are looking to get some hands-on help with your blogging, then this is the lab for you. Don’t forget to sign up for the labs. Space is limited. Sign up here. What we chat about: * Holly’s involvement with Declare since the beginning * How Holly bought a blog and has strategically rebranded * Holly’s intense Facebook “program”, growing organic FB fans to 1 million in a year * The unique position we have to share content with our readers * How the online world could benefit from applying Cinderella’s motto * Holly’s absolute favorite speaking engagement last year * The desire to not just inspire but equip * Learning to be strategic, like Jesus * What to expect if you sign up for Holly’s intermediate blogging lab * What happened last year when Holly taught a beginner blogging lab * The benefits of gathering in a small group, sharing honestly about blogging struggles * The low cost of having an “online” business & benefit of investing in it through education Connect with Holly: http://kidsactivitiesblog.com/  Links Mentioned: * Holly’s Facebook Tips on Declare Conference Podcast * Holly’s YouTube channel–thoughts on Facebook & how they need us What would you hope to learn from an intermediate blogging lab? How to Listen to the Declare Conference Podcast: 1. Listen on the blog. Go to DeclareConference.com and click the play button at the beginning of this post (on your computer. . .doesn’t work on smartphones). 2. Listen on your smartphone, iPad or iPod Touch – There are a lot of great podcasting apps. Apple has a free one in the app store, there is also one called Downcast. It allows you to search for shows, subscribe to them and even speed up the audio. 3. Subscribe to the Podcast – access the podcast in iTunes (click here). You can also search for it on your smartphone app (like the ones listed above) and subscribe.

Are you the type who used to enjoy blogging about your family, but now you’re interested in trying something new? Perhaps there’s a skill or a product you’d like to share with the world. But you feel unsure of where to start. Well, I’ve got a gal who can help you out. Today’s podcast guest is Emily Thomas. In this episode she shares her own blog-to-small business story. And she wants to help you figure out if a small business is right for you.   On Thursday morning of the Declare Conference, Emily will be teaching a lab on monetization and starting a small business. Her goal is to help you brainstorm business ideas and also give you practical tips for getting started (yes, including all the necessary business and tax forms). Make sure you sign up for labs before space runs out –> Click Here. (If you want to check out Emily’s fab art, click here for her shop). What we chat about: * That day Emily thought she invented “Christian Women Blogging Conferences” * The (brief) mastermind group she & I formed after the 2013 conference * Emily’s first Etsy’s shop, started 15 years ago. . .with no products * Why Emily made the switch from blogging to small business * The reasonable offer she made her husband to start creating art * How Emily’s honest online goals came true * What attendees will learn during Emily’s lab * Brainstorming what products/business someone should start * How God keeps putting Emily in jobs where she comforts people We have to stop thinking everyone can do what we can do. Connect with Emily: http://www.heyemilythomas.com/  Links Mentioned: * Anna Rendell * Jacki Rucksdashel * Leslie Johnson * Sarah Marr * Emily’s other podcast interviews: Adoption stories on God Centered Mom & Abusive Relationships & Divorce on Mud Stories by Jacqui Watkins. What kind of online small business have you considered starting? How to Listen to the Declare Conference Podcast: 1. Listen on the blog. Go to DeclareConference.com and click the play button at the beginning of this post (on your computer. . .doesn’t work on smartphones). 2. Listen on your smartphone, iPad or iPod Touch – There are a lot of great podcasting apps. Apple has a 

You’re listening to the Declare Podcast. But should you start one of your own? On today’s episode, Michelle Acker (host of the Declare Conference) interviews me (Heather MacFadyen) about the podcasting lab being offered at Declare this year. (And Michelle shares a bit about her blogging journey with a word of wisdom for the Declare community). Perhaps you’ve considered starting a podcast but have been intimidated by the technical side. Then the Thursday afternoon lab on podcasting is perfect for you. Bring your laptop and learn hands-on how to get your podcast started. Remember space is limited. You’ve heard from all 3 afternoon lab speakers. So after some prayer and reflection, make sure you sign up here. What we talk about: * How Michelle & I differ but how Christ works our giftings together for His glory * Michelle shares the best “how I got started blogging” story I’ve ever heard * Michelle’s word of wisdom for the Declare Community * How the podcast lab will be longer and more thorough than last year’s breakout * What an attendee can expect from the lab * How I got started podcasting * Why I kept podcasting * The number of female podcasters to bloggers * What kind of person makes a good podcaster * What has made podcasting more popular * What are the technical aspects of podcasting–equipment & software * Will Michelle start podcasting Connect with Michelle: Site :: Twitter :: Instagram Connect with Heather: Site :: Twitter :: Instagram :: Facebook :: Podcast Links Mentioned: * Kat Lee * Katie Orr * Serial podcast * Blue Yeti Mic * Pop Filter * Libsyn Hosting If you have considered starting a podcast, what has kept you from doing it? How to Listen to the Declare Conference Podcast: 1. Listen on the blog. Go to DeclareConference.com and click the play button at the beginning of this post (on your computer. . .doesn’t work on smartphones). 2. Listen on your smartphone, iPad or iPod Touch – There are a lot of great podcasting apps. Apple has a free one in the app store, there is also one called Downcast. It allows you to search for shows,