Writing Questions

What kind of writing do you do?

I've helped people craft their marketing materials into compelling stories. I've helped organizations capture stories about how their work is life-changing. I've done long-form interviews, as well as condensed materials into short-form snippets for quick email blurbs. I also write opinion pieces, usually around religion, politics, or book reviews.

In all my writing, I try to do two things: inform and compel. I try to inform the reader as to why this story matters to them. And I try to compel them to respond: a "like," a re-blog, a donation, a purchase, what have you.

Can you provide me with samples?

Certainly. I can point you toward my published articles and work, or I'm happy to workshop a sample for you that would speak directly to your needs. Most of my writing samples you'll find on the first page.

If you're interested in some of my personal editorials, you can see them at www.reluctantxtian.com.

Where have you been published?

My professional articles have appeared in Living Lutheran Magazine, Geez Magazine, The Christian Century, The Cresset, and a number of alumni magazines. My blog posts have appeared on Fifth Season Fresh, The Christian Century, Undivided Magazine, and a number of guest posts on affiliate blogs.

What do you charge for your writing work?

Let's talk.

Coaching Questions

What is the difference between coaching and mentoring, consulting, etc?

Look, deep inside you the answer to your question resides. My job is to help you to name it and make a plan to act on it. And if you're not sure the answer is deep inside you, I'll show you where it lives. Because it's there.

Coaches help you take the next actionable step in whatever plan you're formulating. They not only help hold you accountable, but they also ask the very tough and powerful questions that you need to be asked to arrive at your destination.

Mentors give advice based on their previous work. Consultants come in as an expert to change things. Coaches may have advice and expertise, but they're going to put that aside so that you can listen to yourself first and foremost. The nuance and work is invaluable, and in my experience, much more helpful than a mentor or a consultant.

You know what to do. I'll help you realize it, name it, and work on it.

What kind of things do you coach?

My coaching experience has primarily revolved around two things: habit change/personal achievement, and vocational management/leadership.

I've helped people change their lifestyles, take the next step in their work-life, and I've helped managers and directors navigate the waters of leadership, mission, and staff issues.

Sometimes I do direct problem solving. You'll come with an issue, and we'll coach through it until it is resolved. And sometimes I do ongoing coaching, where a number of issues may present themselves over time, and we work through them sequentially so that you stay on task and goal-oriented as you make your way through life.

But I am not restricted to just these areas. I bet I can help you.

What do you charge for coaching?

Let's talk.

How do I know if I need a coach?

Are you feeling stuck in your life and work? Are you spinning your wheels on a problem and just can't seem to find traction? You've listened to the experts, you've called the consultants, and still it all seems like a slog?

If any of these are you, then I can help you.

What certifies you to be a coach?

I've received level 1 and 2 training through International Coaching Federation (ICF) Certified trainers, facilitated through CoachNet. I'm currently working on my PCC, which is a bit of a process...but I enjoy it. You can find more about ICF standards here: https://coachingfederation.org/

Other Topics

How did you get into coaching?

I learned the hard way. I had potential in my work as a pastor, but didn't have direction. My superiors saw the potential, though, and invited me into a coaching relationship. In the relationship I found not only accountability, but someone to work me through my struggles of a growing staff (and management of the staff), a growing budget, and a life-trajectory that was heading toward more and more responsibility.

I so valued my time with my coach, that when the opportunity came to become a coach I couldn't say no. It not only fits my gifts, but it fits my passions and my core value of helping people in whatever way I can. Plus, I get to give back in a way that I know helps to change lives.

What makes a good writer?

Two things: gifts and practice. At least, that's what makes me a good writer.

I have folders of stories that I wrote as a child. I've always loved writing, and loved reading, and you can't be a good writer if you're not reading. And so I've cultivated this gift for sharing and shaping stories. And I write what people want to read in a way they want to read it. All good writing for general consumption must be conversational in style and nature. This is where so many places mess up: their polish is more professional and not personal enough. I'll help you change that.

And I practice. A lot. Quite a bit of my work involves writing and re-writing and then writing some more. And I enjoy it.

What makes for a good coach?

Two things: instincts and ears. At least, that's what makes me a good coach.

I have instincts that have always led me to helping professions. As a pastor, a counselor, and as a coach, I have instincts for what is the most needful thing in the moment, and I try to get you to the place where you can name it.

And I listen more than talk. Any coach who does the opposite isn't coaching you, they're advising you. That's a warning sign that the relationship is no good. You'll end up doing what they want. I'll get you to do what you want and need to do because I'll hear what you're actually saying under that labyrinth of words you're spewing out.

Trust me. I can help you.