Faculty

Ignite your potential with our faculty.

Welcome to an extraordinary gathering of minds at the 2026 Blue Lake Christian Writers Conference! Our faculty is a select assembly of award-winning authors, esteemed publishers, and revered editors, each committed to enhancing your literary journey. This exceptional group is not only skilled in their respective crafts but also deeply passionate about storytelling and mentorship.

A Rich Tapestry of Experience

Our faculty spans a diverse range of expertise—from accomplished novelists who will transport you into the heart of narrative construction, to non-fiction specialists ready to deepen your understanding of factual storytelling. Whether your interest lies in heart-stirring fiction, compelling memoirs, insightful self-help books, or dynamic young adult literature, our mentors are here to guide you with personalized advice that speaks directly to your needs.

Invaluable Insights and Support

Here at Blue Lake, you’ll find more than just teachers; you’ll find mentors who are eager to see you succeed. They are prepared to share invaluable insights that go beyond conventional teachings, offering real-world applications and strategic advice to elevate your writing. Each session is designed to offer practical tools and techniques that you can immediately implement to refine your craft.

Meet Your Mentors

As you scroll through the profiles below, you’ll discover the rich backgrounds and unique specialties of our faculty members. Each one brings a unique perspective to writing and publishing, ensuring that every attendee leaves with a broadened outlook and enhanced skills.

Prepare to be inspired, educated, and encouraged by our faculty at the Blue Lake Christian Writers Conference. With their guidance, you’ll not only hone your skills but also gain the confidence to navigate the complex path to publication. Let’s meet the minds behind your next creative breakthrough!

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Alyssa Avant

Author and Virtual Assistant

Alyssa Avant is a virtual assistant, author, and podcast host who has been serving Christian authors, speakers, and coaches for over 16 years. She is the founder of Alyssa Avant & Company, where she specializes in helping clients build and maintain their online presence through marketing, content creation, and strategy. Alyssa is passionate about equipping and encouraging writers to pursue their calling with confidence, and she shares practical tools and inspiration through her podcast, The Christian Business Advantage. To find out more go to alyssaavantandcompany.com.

 

 

Rachel Coggins

Chaplain

Dr. Rachel Coggins, called to ministry in 1974, serves as the Prayer Team Leader for this writers’ conference. Licensed, ordained, and commissioned, she dedicated 25 years as an Army Reserve Chaplain, retiring as a Lieutenant Colonel. Her book, Gateway to Iraq, shares heartfelt stories from her time with military service members. In 1992, she founded Rachel’s Well Ministries, a writing and speaking ministry. Rachel remains active in ministry through writing, community service, and global outreach, drawing inspiration from her travels, education, and experiences for God’s glory.

 

Bob Crittenden

Faith Radio: Director of Special Projects + Host, “The Meeting House.”

Bob Crittenden was born in Marietta, Georgia, on April 7, 1959, and remained in his hometown through 1976. When he graduated from Marietta High School, Bob departed for college at the University of Tennessee, where he earned a B.S. Degree in Communications. Bob arrived at Faith Radio in 1991, hosted “Morning Praise” for 13 years, and, in 2004, launched “The Meeting House,” a program of music and conversation heard weekday afternoons from 4 until 6. He is married to Beth, and they have two children, AnnaBeth and Eric. Learn more at faithradio.org. 

 

 

Vincent B. Davis II

Best-selling Author

Vincent is an author, Army veteran, and diehard history buff. After graduating East Tennessee State University, he decided it was as good a time as any to pursue a writing career. With a shoestring budget and no platform to speak of, he found a way to utilize Amazon’s algorithms to sell his books. Since then, he’s published ten novels, earned over ten thousand Amazon reviews, and sold over one hundred thousand books. He’s passionate about helping authors achieve their dreams, earn more royalties, and spread their message. When he isn’t writing his next novel, researching ancient Rome, or working with authors, he’s spending time with his wife, three children, and too many shelter pets to count. Learn more at booksalespro.com.

 

Robyn Dykstra

Speaker, Author, Creator of Christian Speakers Boot Camp

Robyn Dykstra is a sought-after national speaker who presents at dozens of live events each year, including multiple broadcasts with Focus on the Family. She is a best-selling author and creator of Christian Speakers Boot Camp, where she helps authors and speakers craft compelling signature talks that open doors and impact audiences. Robyn has mastered the art of securing speaking engagements, confidently negotiating honorariums, and getting books into more readers’ hands with a little merch table magic. Her unique signature talk formula simplifies the process of creating messages that connect deeply and inspire action. She is passionate about helping communicators expand their Kingdom influence while building sustainable ministry income. Learn more at robyndykstra.com.

 

 

Sharon Elliott

Agent, AuthorizeMe® Literary Firm

Dr. Sharon Norris Elliott encourages us to “Live significantly!” This inspiring message has driven Dr. Sharon to become an award-winning author, editor, agent, engaging speaker, and licensed minister. She is a cum laude graduate of Biola University and author of 17 books. Dr. Sharon serves as a board member of the WCCW conference and AWSA. She is a Christian broadcaster with HSBN.tv and the founder/CEO of the successful AuthorizeMe® Literary Firm at AuthorizeMe.net. Dr. Sharon lives in Southern California. She serves on the pastoral staff at her home church, Christ Second Baptist Church of Long Beach, and enjoys traveling to visit her children and grandchildren.

 

Linda Gilden

Award Winning, Best-Selling Author

In Loving Memory of a Faithful Servant who died in October 2025. Her Light Still Shines through Her Words and Witness!

Linda Gilden is a bestselling writer, speaker, award-winning editor, marketer, and speaking coach, ghostwriter, and writing coach. Author of 40 books and 1,800+ magazine articles, Linda appreciates a great story and believes with our stories we can change the world one word at a time. She loves to encourage others through writing coaching. Her newest book cowritten with Dana Russell was released in November: Trading Shadows – Exchanging a Life of Secrets, Fear, and Doubt for a Life of Freedom with the Almighty.

Linda’s greatest joy is family time where their secret love note is folded potato chips. She loves to be in the pool with a good book surrounded by the cutest seven grandchildren in the world – great fodder for writing! Find more at lindagilden.com.

 

John Gilden

Bookstore Coordinator

John Gilden has been working with Christian conference bookstores for almost 13 years. He has worked with the Carolina Christian Writers Conference, Blue Ridge Mountain Christian Writers Conference, and the Florida Christian Writers Conference book stores. He enjoys helping authors and conference attendees. John is a people person who enjoys visiting with people from different parts of the country. A writer and excellent editor himself, bookstore opportunities have helped him meet and become friends with many publishers and editors. John has been married to his favorite author for over 52 years.

 

Heather Greer

Author, Managing Editor, Scrivenings Press

As an avid reader, author, and Managing Editor for Scrivenings Press, Heather Greer loves good stories, especially ones pointing readers to God. Heather uses her God-given passion for stories to encourage and challenge readers in their faith and authors in their writing ministries. Her books, blog, and the Staying Real About Faith and Family podcast she co-hosts encourage others to live real, active, heart-changing faith in the everyday mess we call life. Heather is a pastor’s wife from southern Illinois. When she isn’t reading or writing, Heather enjoys crafting, baking, and spending time with her husband, children, and grandchildren. Learn more at heathergreer.com.

Submission Guidelines

Scrivenings Press accepts Christian or clean fiction proposals in contemporary romance, women’s and general fiction, historical, historical romance, suspense and romantic suspense, cozy mystery, and speculative genres.

Jean Hall

Co-Director of Write2Ignite and Editor of StarLight Magazine

Since 2001, Jean Matthew Hall has been writing for children. She has one picture book, God’s Blessings of Fall, published in 2019. She also has multiple articles, stories, and poems published in Christian magazines and books in the Chicken Soup for the Soul series. Jean was a schoolteacher for more than 20 years, taught Sunday school classes for children, and led Bible studies for women. She has been a Co-Director of Write2Ignite for thirteen years. Jean is now the owner and Editor of her online magazine for kids ages five to ten, StarLight Magazine. Jean leads workshops at writers conferences, speaks to student groups, and provides written critiques through Write2Ignite.

Submission Guidelines

As a StarLight Contributor, you play a vital role in making this vision come to life! We’re looking for original content that brims with excitement, humor, and adventure. Your work should both intrigue young readers and reassure parents that the content is uplifting and faith-driven.

We aim to inspire children ages 5 to 10 with engaging content that shines God’s truth through captivating stories and fun activities. Our goal is to spark delight through creative fiction, encourage curiosity with fascinating facts about God’s creation, and highlight the lives of influential Christians throughout history. Above all, we seek to welcome young hearts toward Jesus, the Good Shepherd, who lovingly guides, protects, and calls them by name.

 

John Herring

Publisher, Iron Stream Media

John Herring, the CEO/Owner of Iron Stream Media, has dedicated over 40 years to serving churches or church-related entities. His expertise spans publishing, curriculum development, strategic thinking/planning, discipleship, staff development, mentoring, and bridging connections between ministries and people.
John’s favorite topics of discussion are his Lord, his family (especially his grandsons), missions, business as ministry, and coffee. He holds a Doctor of Educational Ministry degree and a Master’s in Christian Education from Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary, and a bachelor’s degree from Samford University.
John and his wife, Stacy, reside in Birmingham with their little dog, Bo, short for Bogey. They are blessed with two children and four grandchildren. Learn more at ironstreammedia.com.

Submission Guidelines

Iron Stream Media (ISM), drawing inspiration from Proverbs 27:17, “As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another,” focuses on the process of discipleship. ISM provides a range of solutions for churches, missionaries, and non-profits, including comprehensive Bible study curricula, Christian book publishing, custom publishing, and consultative services through its division, Brookstone Creative Group. Its web-based offerings feature full-year and short-term Bible study teaching plans, along with printed devotionals, Bibles, and discipleship curricula. The ISM family includes Iron Stream Books, Iron Stream Fiction, Iron Stream Kids, Life Bible Study, and Brookstone Creative Group.

 

Gretchen Huesmann

Award-Winning Author

Gretchen Huesmann is a teacher, speaker, and award-winning author. Her speaking career began 30 years ago as a young pastor’s wife to moms and women’s groups. In 2004, she led her first three-day women’s retreat and later added educators to her list of audiences, creating and presenting original seminars. In 2021, she presented the keynote to the Iowa State Early Childhood Conference. Gretchen is a member of the Advanced Writers and Speakers Association and serves as president of the Pensacola Word Weavers chapter. Her first book, It’s A Good Day to be a Teacher: 52 Devotions to Equip and Encourage Educators (Iron Stream Media) is available on Amazon. Her first picture book, A Time for Everything (Our Daily Bread) will join the world in 2027. Find out more at gretchenhuesmann.com.

 

Steven Hutson

Literary Agent

Steven Hutson grew up in Los Angeles, between Hollywood Boulevard and Route 66. From a very early age, he always wanted to be a writer. But fate had other ideas, and he ended up operating a freelance editing service. Then, managing a writer’s conference. And now, for the past 15 years, he has worked as a literary agent. His clients have been published by Hachette, Baker Books, Writer’s Digest Books, HarperCollins, Dutton, Harlequin, Thomas Nelson, and more. Several clients have won prestigious awards in both the Christian and general markets. Learn more at wordwisemedia.com. 

 

 

Heather Iseminger 

Publisher, Brookstone Creative Group

Heather Iseminger is a self-proclaimed hoarder of words and caffeine. She holds a BA in English Writing from FSU and an MA in Christian Education from New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary. She and her Prince Charming, Mike, have been married for over 20 years and have two children, Ella and Caleb. After almost 25 years as an educator, Heather recently stepped out of the classroom and is now a consultant with Brookstone Creative Group, where she works to equip authors as they pursue God’s call in publishing. She is also a local photographer and an award-winning freelance author. Her deepest passion lies in teaching others biblical truths, so they understand how to pursue a radical, Jesus-loving life.

Submission Guidelines: 

Brookstone Creative Group is the hybrid publishing imprint of Iron Stream Media. Understanding the ins and outs of publishing and distribution can seem daunting. Our team of industry pros can walk you through each step to ensure your message and final product are poised for success. BCG offers solutions to provide writers, authors, speakers, and pastors with the tools they need to be successful. We will work hard so you are well-equipped to reach the largest audience possible.

Brookstone Creative Group is open for submissions in all categories, but specializes in nonfiction:
● Bible Studies
● Christian Living/Ministry/Evangelism
● Church Growth/Life/Renewal
● Culture/Contemporary Issues
● Curriculum/How-To/Teaching
● Discipleship/Personal Growth
● Marriage/Family/Parenting
● Men’s Books
● Prayer & Spiritual Warfare
● Women’s Interests

 

Teresa Janzen

Publisher, Abundance Books

Teresa Janzen is the founder and editor in chief of Abundance Books, an independent publishing house focused on fiction, devotional works, Bible studies, narrative nonfiction, including memoir, and select children’s titles. She brings extensive experience in publishing, editorial development, and market positioning, and works closely with authors to clarify purpose, audience, and craft. In pitch appointments, Teresa is looking for well-developed projects with a clear reader focus and a strong sense of story.  Learn more at https://abundance-books.com/.

Submission Guidelines:

Abundance Books publishes purpose-driven books that reflect God’s transformational love and are crafted to inspire, instruct, and encourage readers.

What We Publish

  • Nonfiction (memoir, Bible studies, Christian living, devotionals)
  • Clean fiction for adults, young adults, and children
  • Children’s books for both Christian and general markets

Our Commitment

  • About 50% of new titles are reserved for emerging authors with fewer than five books in print

  • We welcome first-time authors who are open to collaboration and growth

What We Look For

  • A clear audience and compelling concept

  • Strong, well-structured writing

  • Alignment with Abundance Books’ mission and values

Submission Requirements

  • One Word document including a cover letter, project overview, and sample content

 

Larry J. Leech

Writing Coach of award-winning authors, Acquisition Editor for Illumify Media

Usually with a hot beverage nearby, Larry J. Leech II spends his days working with words—as a writing coach of award-winning authors, as well as Acquisitions Editor and Master Book Coach for Illumify Media. More than forty years ago, Larry started his career as a sportswriter in southwestern Pennsylvania, where he covered prep and college sports, and the Pittsburgh Pirates and Steelers. In 2004, after 2,300 published articles, Larry shifted to book publishing. Since that time, he has ghostwritten thirty-five books, edited more than 500 manuscripts, and coached hundreds of authors through the writing and publication process. For nearly two decades, Larry has taught at numerous general market and inspirational conferences nationwide. Learn more at larryleach.com.

Submission Guidelines

  • Accepts nonfiction, fiction, and children’s manuscripts. Please follow the guidelines below to ensure the review process goes smoothly.
  • Your manuscript should be submitted as a Microsoft Word document (not Google Docs, Apple Pages, or in an email)
  • Include your suggested title, byline (author name), word count, and contact information (phone and email address) on the title page.
  • Times New Roman font
  • Top, bottom, and side margins set to one inch
  • No page numbers, headers, footers, or anchor links
  • Please take advantage of the spell check and grammar check features of your word processing program before sending us your manuscript.
  • Save your submission as a .doc, .docx, or .pdf No submissions pasted into an email, please.

 

 

Babbie Mason

Award Winning Singer, Songwriter, and Speaker

Babbie Mason is an award-winning gospel singer, songwriter, author, speaker, and television talk-show host. She is the recipient of two Dove Awards and a USA Today Best-selling author award. Babbie has received nominations for the Grammy, the Stellar, and the Emmy Awards. In 2010, Babbie was recognized for her contributions to gospel music and was inducted into the Christian Music Hall of Fame. In 2021, Babbie received the Golden Scroll Award for excellence in writing from the Advanced Writers and Speakers Association. Learn more at babbie.com.

 

 

DiAnn Mills

Award-Winning Author

DiAnn Mills is a bestselling author who invites readers to expect an adventure through heart-pounding suspense, romance, and faith-filled stories. Her novels have landed on CBA, ECPA, and Publishers Weekly bestseller lists and won numerous awards, including the Christy and Carol. A founding board member of American Christian Fiction Writers and Conference Advisor for Blue Ridge Mountains Christian Writers, DiAnn mentors writers nationwide. She lives in Houston, Texas, where she roasts her own coffee and spoils her grandchildren. Connect with DiAnn for behind-the-scenes glimpses, writing tips, and lively conversations at diannmills.com

 

Alice Murray

Acquisition Editor, GO! Magazine


After 35 years as a Florida adoption attorney, Alice H. Murray now pursues a different path as a writer. Her work includes contributions to several Short and Sweet books, The Upper Room, and Chicken Soup for the Soul. Alice is a regular contributor to GO!, a quarterly Christian magazine in the Florida Panhandle, and she has three devotions a month published online by Dynamic Women in Missions. Her devotions have also appeared in compilation devotionals such as Ordinary People Extraordinary God (July 2023) and Guideposts’ Pray A Word A Day, Vol. 2 (June 2023), and Pray a Word for Hope (September 2023). Alice’s first book, The Secret of Chimneys, was an annotated Agatha Christie mystery. Alice’s second book, God Adopted Us First/Faith Lessons from an Adoption Attorney’s Adventures, was published by Iron Stream Media in 2025.

Submission Guidelines

GO! Magazine is a quarterly Christian publication based in Northwest Florida. The magazine offers quality content to an audience of more than 30,000. Writers receive $50 per published article, with pieces running 600 to 1,000 words and edited before publication. Articles need to include faith testimonies to lead people into a relationship with Jesus. Other topics run the gamut from book reviews, marriage and family, financial help, and health, with all pieces pointing people to faith in Christ. Add to your writing resume by having an article published in GO! Your article has the potential to reach readers beyond the local area, as the magazine is distributed in a tourist destination and has subscribers in more than 20 states.

 

Susan Neal

Conference Director, CEO of CIPA and CAN

As a Certified AWSA Writer Coach, Susan Neal, RN, MBA, MHS, desires to help others publish and sell their God-given message. She is the author of eight healthy living books. Her self-published, award-winning, best-seller, 7 Steps to Get Off Sugar and Carbohydrates, won the Selah award and sold over 20,000 copies in four years. Susan won the 2020 Christian Author Network Excellence in Marketing Award for Outstanding Broadcast Media for her book marketing campaign. She is a trusted advisor for authors and helps many sell more books. Susan is the Director of Christian Indie Publishing Association (CIPA), Christian Authors Network (CAN), and the Christian Indie Awards. Learn more at susanuneal.com.

 

 

Amy Williams

Author, Speaker, and Teacher

Amy C. Williams (also known as A.C. Williams) is a coffee-drinking, sushi-eating, story-telling nerd who loves cats, country living, and all things Japanese. Award-winning author of more than 20 books, she writes novels, short stories, devotionals, and Christian non-fiction. When she isn’t drafting in the wee morning hours, she’s working as a Fiction Instructor and Editor for the Author Conservatory, an online college alternative for young writers. Whether you want a true tale about her death-defying antics in the Guatemalan jungle or a wild adventure about samurai superheroes or heist-pulling space grannies, she’s got a story you’re bound to love. Join her adventures at www.amycwilliams.com

 

Dr. Kennita Williams

Strategist, Speaker, and Author

Dr. Kennita Williams is a leadership wellness strategist, speaker, author, and founder of Clear Vision Consulting. Known as “Dr. Kay,” she helps leaders, communicators, and organizations navigate burnout, regain clarity, and lead with purpose through her signature P3 Method®: Pause. Plan. Proceed. A certified resilience trainer and faith-centered communicator, she is the author of 30 Days to Clear Vision, a monthly contributor to The Write Conversation, and the upcoming host of the “Let’s Get Clear” podcast. Dr. Williams empowers others to see well, be well, and lead well. Learn more at ClearVisionLeader.com.