In this episode of Created to Write, Michelle Dennis Evans speaks with author Steph Penny about what it looks like to answer the creative call, even in the middle of life’s challenges.

From writing non-fiction to stepping into the world of fantasy, Steph shares the heart behind her Survival Series, which explores chronic illness, childlessness and resilience through a Christian lens.

We talk about writing as ministry, balancing creativity with work and health, and the role of community in overcoming self-doubt. Steph also opens up about how the Omega Writers network has supported her journey and helped her keep moving forward.

If you’ve been questioning whether your ideas matter, this episode will remind you that your story has purpose and it’s time to start writing.

Steph Penny is an author, blogger, songwriter and chocoholic. Steph’s latest book, Surviving Chronic Illness, is the third in her Survival series of non-fiction quirky self-help books, and she is currently writing her first fantasy short stories and novels. Steph lives with her husband and pet cat and works as a psychologist in between writing projects.Website: https://stephpenny.com.au/YouTube channel: / @stephpenny Books: https://koorong.com/search?authors=St...

In this episode, author Michelle Dennis Evans tackles one of the biggest writing roadblocks: getting stuck in the first chapters because you are editing while you write. If you have ever struggled with writer’s block, overthinking your words, or constantly rereading instead of making progress, this episode will shift your approach.

Michelle introduces the powerful “brain dump” writing method, a proven strategy for overcoming perfectionism and building writing momentum. Instead of stopping to edit, fix grammar, or second-guess every sentence, you simply get the words out. This creative writing technique helps aspiring authors, bloggers, and content creators finally move forward and finish what they start.

She also reframes writing as an act of worship, reminding listeners that creative ideas are seeds planted by God, meant to be expressed, not buried. When you honour the process and show up consistently, you create space for both creativity and spiritual growth.

This episode is a must-listen for anyone wanting to write a book, grow in faith, and develop stronger writing habits. Michelle highlights the importance of discipline, consistency, and trusting God in the creative process, showing that great writing is built through action, not just moments of inspiration.

In this episode of Created to Write, Michelle Dennis Evans talks with Christian author Janette Grant Thompson, a lifelong writer who discovered her love for words at just six years old.

With a career spanning decades, including a biography that has remained in print for over 30 years, Janette shares what it really takes to build a lasting writing journey. Her character-driven approach reminds us that powerful stories are not built on perfection, but on depth, truth and consistency.

We talk about turning blog posts into books, the importance of community, and why every new writer needs both encouragement and honest feedback through professional editing.

If you’re just starting or struggling to stay consistent, this episode will remind you that writing is not a quick win, it’s a calling you grow into.

Jeanette Grant-Thomson is a Moreton-based author who has had all sorts of writing published since her childhood. www.facebook.com/jeanette.grantthomson