210. What Can First-Time Guests Expect at a Christian Writers’ Conference? | with J. J. Johnson

We’re partners with Realm Makers is the leading fantastical conference for Christian creatives. Recently organizers shared that over 40 percent of registrations for this July’s event are first-time guests. This brings back memories! So we thought we’d share them with you. What’s it like at a writers’ conference? And what should first-time guests expect at Realm Makers and beyond?

Episode sponsors

1. Enclave Publishing: Lion Warrior by James R. Hannibal
2. Changelings: Insurgence by Liam Corley
3. Story Embers summit, May 23–25, 2024

Mission update

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Introducing guest J. J. Johnson

J. J. Johnson is the author of the Iggy and Oz comedic fantasy series for middle grade readers, and the new marketing director for Realm Makers. J. J. grew up in Pryor Creek Oklahoma and attending Oklahoma Baptist University, majoring in student ministry. He lives in Edmond, Oklahoma with his wife Ashley and their two children.

• J. J. Johnson on Facebook
• Instagram: @jjjohnson_author
• Twitter: @JJJohnsonWrites
• JJJohnsonwrites.com

Concession stand

• We’re still not a writers’ podcast. Yet many of our listeners are writers.
• Yet now Realm Makers is poised to grow beyond its creator audience.
• Listen to the end for a special preview for Realm Makers summer 2025!

1. What do we recall about first writing conferences?

• Stephen and JJ share their early forays into ACFW and Realm Makers conferences
• Zack recounts his first time at Realm Makers

2. How can newcomers enjoy writing conferences?

• “You’ve taken your first step into a larger world” (Obi-Wan Kenobi).
• Remember that this is a journey, not a make-or-break single chance.
• If you’re working on a novel, pitch that story happily—when asked!
• Always, always ask everyone else about their stories, maybe more often.
• It is humbling, then joy-giving, to meet others who are just as creative.
• Don’t ever retreat to your room to write/edit. “Not a great plan.”
• You’ve spent the money. Use it wisely. Steward your time. Meet others!