interview

September 27, 2016 by Tricia Goyer Leave a Comment

Multiple Choice Interview | Amish Reader

I recently had the pleasure of visiting AmishReader.com to answer a fun multiple-choice interview and to celebrate the release of Sewn with Joy. Read the interview below and make sure to enter their giveaway of a Whirley-Pop popcorn popper gift set, a $25 Amazon.com gift card, and two copies of Sewn with Joy! To get your name in the drawing, fill out the form HERE!)

Interview with Tricia Goyer: Multiple Choice

1. The tastiest topping for popcorn is…

Butter
Caramel
Nothing—it’s good all by itself!
Something spicy

Tricia explains: I love buttery (and salty) movie house popcorn. It’s really the only time I get it, but then I SPLURGE!

2. The way you’d most like to be involved in a TV show is by…

Acting
Directing
Scriptwriting
Binge-watching

Tricia explains: I’ve actually worked on a script before and it’s fun! But I’d never want to get in front of the camera!

3. The character from Sewn with Joy who most resembles you is…

Joy
Matthew
Elizabeth
Alicia

Click here to read the rest of the interview at AmishReader.com and enter to win a fun giveaway!

Read a fun multiple choice interview with @TriciaGoyer & @amishreader here:

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Sewn with Joy

Sometimes Dreams Come Together
One Piece at a Time

Joy Miller wanted nothing more than to be a wife and mother—especially now that her relationship with Matthew Slagel, the bishop’s son, was deepening. But when a television crew rolls into Pinecraft, Florida, to film a new show about the Amish, tension threatens to rip apart their relationship…and the entire Amish community.

Joy is initially hired to sew costumes for the show, but she soon finds herself becoming increasingly involved in the production—a fact that upsets Matthew and his father. Yet the more Joy befriends the Englischer production crew, the more she senses God working in their lives through her. Can she turn her back on this opportunity to share God’s love? Will she and Matthew somehow be able to stitch together their dreams for the future?

Experience love, heartbreak, and hope in this sweet story of two worlds uniting in unexpected ways.

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September 15, 2016 by Tricia Goyer 1 Comment

The Rest is His Story

Listen to my interview on Heroes for Her podcast and read a blurb about the interview below!

Seven daughters. Yeah, you heard that right.

I felt my heart drop when Tricia Goyer reminded me that she has seven, not six, daughters. Six are adopted, and she has one biological daughter. My heart hit the floor as I imagined myself trying to juggle all of that.

Raised by a teen mother before her mom married her stepdad, Tricia never really knew the love of a father. So, she went looking for love and acceptance in “all the wrong places” (This sounds eerily familiar), and she ended up becoming a teen mom too. At just 17, she had to grow up quick, and the strength and resiliency needed to keep moving forward inspired many things, one of which is a successful writing and speaking career.

This woman is amazing. She has written over 50 books. 50. Her new book, Prayers That Changed History, is in stores now. That is though, by far, not the most impressive thing I learned about her during our episode. What impressed me most is her honesty. How many people would speak so openly and candidly about becoming a teen mom, about having an abortion? I don’t know that I know anyone who is that honest.

I’ve been through my share of tough times and terrible mistakes, and so has she. The difference is she has this incredible peace about it, though. It’s a peace I find myself working toward, and I know it is something I will chase for many years to come.

The rest is HIS story. Listen to @TriciaGoyer’s interview with @biblebelles here:

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September 15, 2014 by Tricia Goyer 90 Comments

Messy Beautiful Love: Book Giveaway & Author Interview

Messy Beautiful Love: Interview & Book Giveaway

You may be familiar with one of my favorite bloggers, Darlene Schacht, also known as the TimeWarpWife. I’m happy to announce that Darlene’s book is releasing tomorrow!

To celebrate, I’m giving away 3 copies of her books and letting you know a little more about why I’m so excited about this book. She answered the following questions for us…

Yay! @TriciaGoyer is celebrating @timewarpwife’s book release with a giveaway!

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Your book is called, Messy Beautiful Love. Can you tell us why you chose that name?

We all have expectations when we’re stepping into marriage. And if you’re like most women, those expectations are high, but the reality is that life gets messy. Whether it’s financial problems, sickness, aging parents, or an unhappy spouse, sooner or later we’ll have a mess to clean up.

But when we surrender our relationship to God in obedience to His will, we experience the blessings of marriage as He intended. That’s a beautiful thing.

How is Messy Beautiful Love different from other books on marriage and relationships?

Because I’ve been through a lot in my own marriage, I understand the importance of grace and forgiveness. I offer hope to women where hope would be otherwise lost. Can a broken marriage be repaired? Can a stale relationship be revived? Messy Beautiful Love answers those questions with a resounding “Yes!”

What is the main piece of advice you would give women in today’s world, who want to approach their marriage differently?

Women in today’s world are exposed to temptation on a constant basis. The Internet is a way of life for most people.

Our ancestors never experienced anything remotely close to what we are living with today. The outside world—along with its opinions, temptations, and distractions—has made its way into our homes.

I can’t tell you the number of times that women have confided in me about the struggles they’re facing online. It can mess with your mind when a seemingly perfect man (and I do mean seemingly) is paying attention to you, or waiting to chat.

We need to be on guard more than ever before, protecting our thoughts, our children, our faith, and our marriages.

In Chapter 4, you say that marriage isn’t 50/50. Can you explain what you mean by that?

It’s a beautiful thing when two people love as they should love. When each person is putting into the marriage more than they’re hoping to gain. But we all have days, weeks–and for some it’s been years–when we feel that we’re not being loved as we should be. What then? The truth of the matter is that the return on our investment doesn’t always come from our husband, but it always comes from the Lord. We have that promise. When we put our hope in Him we have a guarantee that He rewards those who are faithful.

Love is a gift, not a swap of emotions. If we hand over a gift with one hand open while the other is closed, the gift is lost in exchange, therefore the best thing we can do for our marriage is offer each other 100%.

Our lives are so full of distractions… careers, children, reality TV! What are some ways couples can prioritize each other, and keep their love alive over the years?

We all have seasons, which require more from us than others. Raising a family, starting a business, planting a church, moving across country, or taking care of aging parents are just a few of the things that can distract us and pull us apart. The important thing is to communicate with each other during these times, and to assure each other that each season will pass.

Depending on just how busy you are, intimacy may slow down a bit. But keep in mind, slowing down and eliminating that part of your relationship are two different things. Never ignore the marriage bed, and don’t place it on the back shelf where you forget about it. Just like anything else that’s a priority in your life, you may need to examine your schedule to see what you can cut and what you must keep.

In chapter seven you say “Dig into God and if you’re feeling let down and discouraged, dig deeper yet.” I agree. Do you have any practical suggestions for personal Bible study?

The Internet offers us so many tools for Bible study that it easier than ever to dig deep. I remember the old days when I would lug a giant concordance to the table and spend hours flipping through it to find the Greek meaning behind the words. Today we literally have this information at our fingertips.

One of my favorite ways to study is to read through a book like Romans. I pull out all of the key words while I’m reading and I look them up in the Strong’s Concordance. I’ll also flip over to Matthew Henry’s commentary every once in a while to get his take on things.

I’m currently using Logos Bible software which makes all of this easy for me since it’s all in one program. I can read my Bible with these resources side by side.

For someone who is looking for something a little lighter, I’d suggest trying the SOAP method. I first learned about it through Good Morning Girls, although I’m not sure if my version is exactly the same. It calls for a little journaling as you record the following:

S – Scripture: Highlight the scripture that you want to meditate on.
O – Observation: Journal your thoughts. What are some personal observations?
A – Application: How can you apply this to your life? Are there changes you’d like to make? Is God prompting you to focus on something?
P – Prayer: Pray before you start reading and again at the end.

We’ve all heard the saying, “It takes two to make a marriage work.” What would you say to the woman (or in many cases the man) who feels like they are doing all of the work in the marriage?

Absolutely. And if you are praying for your marriage than you can be certain without a doubt that you aren’t the only one doing the work. God plus you equals two. You’re not in this alone.

I’m not saying that it’s a good place to be. Absolutely not. But the reality is that some marriages are that way. Some people keep giving and giving without getting anything from their spouse in return, which is why it’s so important that while we’re down on our knees praying, our hope is steadfast on the Lord.

All good things come through Him and by Him. He is the one who rewards our faith.

God doesn’t expect us to do all of the work. He just wants us to be there beside Him while He’s doing His.

Prayer

God, Thank you. I’m a cracked vessel held together by grace. I desire for my marriage to be encouraged. I don’t have it all figured out, and I doubt that I ever will, but I’m willing to learn to lean on the One who does. I’m willing to learn that when I follow His wisdom in lieu of my own, I’m walking in peace. Let that peace overflow into all areas of my life.

I’m giving away 3 copies of Darlene’s book to 3 lucky winners!

Enter to win below. Winners will be announced next Monday September 22nd. Only those in the U.S. are eligible to win.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

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August 15, 2014 by Tricia Goyer Leave a Comment

Make It Your Story

I was able to sit down with the folks at Life Plus Homeschooling to chat about how every person has a special story created by God. Watch the video below to find out how you can make much of your family’s particular story.

Some ways to create your own life story:

Don’t compare yourself to other moms.
Focus on your strengths, and grow those strengths.
Don’t compare your weaknesses against others’ strengths.
Be willing to let go of some things.

Some ways to create your own life story from author @TriciaGoyer

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Prayer

Thank you for breathing life into my story. Show me more ways I can create life and take advantage of the life you have already given me and those around me.

Tricia Goyer Books On Sale! — click here for more info!

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August 2, 2014 by Tricia Goyer Leave a Comment

Video Encouragement: Lead Your Family Like Jesus

Happy Saturday! Here’s a collection of my favorites from my ‘Lead Your Family Like Jesus’ video series based on the book I wrote with Ken Blanchard and Phil Hodges.

Make Every Day Count

Showing Servant Leadership with Tricia Goyer

Showing Sacrifice

Here’s some video encouragement for your Saturday! @TriciaGoyer

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Let’s play a game!

My book The Kissing Bridge is a featured item in Barnes & Noble through August 18th! Next time you’re at Barnes & Noble, snap a photo of the book and post it on social media with the hashtag #iSpyTriciaG – You’ll be entered to win a $25 Starbucks gift-card and 5-book prize pack!

Only those in the US are eligible to win. Keep your eyes peeled for the winner announcement on August 19th!

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May 27, 2014 by Tricia Goyer 1 Comment

Novelization & Motherhood | An Interview with Tricia Goyer

Novelization & Motherhood

An Interview with Tricia Goyer

What is the novelization process like? How many times did I have to watch the movie? How can moms find the time for a moms’ night out in the midst of chaos? Good questions! I was recently interviewed about my novelization of the popular film, Moms’ Night Out and the importance of having “mommy time.” Check out the interview below to learn more!

Q: This book is a novelization of the new movie Moms’ Night Out, starring Patricia Heaton, Sean Astin and others. We’re used to novels being turned into movies, but not so much movies being turned into novels. How does the novelization of a movie work?

A novelization means a novel inspired by the movie. I was contacted in December asking if I’d be interested in this project. I’d seen the trailer, and (as a mom of six with a hectic household) I immediately said, “Yes!” They sent me the movie, and I watched it a few times just to get an idea of the story. I loved it! It made me laugh and really spoke to my heart. Then with the screenplay in hand, I watched the movie a scene at a time. I’d catch the dialogue, and then I’d go back and bring the characters’ actions to life on the page. So, yes, I can pretty much quote the movie as it plays!

Q: How many times did you have to watch the movie in order to write the book?

I didn’t count, but I’d say I watched each scene 20-50 times, depending on how much action or dialogue there was!

Q: How involved do you get to be with the movie premiere and all the excitement of a theatrical release?

I was so honored to be able to go to Hollywood to be part of the premiere on April 29. They listed me as “Talent,” and I got to ride to the TCL Chinese Theater in a fancy car, walk the Red Carpet, watch the movie sitting next to Alex Hendrick (an awesome movie star/producer) and then have a wonderful time getting to know all the cast better at the after party. It truly was a magical night!

Q: You’re the mother of six and a best-selling author and speaker. What advice do you have for moms who are trying to juggle their work schedule and their family responsibilities?

Know how much you can say yes to. This year the only extra-curricular activity my children were a part of was Awanas. I only have one weekly commitment other than church and our small group, and that is our Teen MOPS (Mothers of Preschoolers Support Group). We spend a lot of time playing with the neighbors and hanging out as a family. I’ve been at the spot where I’ve been running place to place with kids’ activities, and that’s not fun! After raising three kids, I’ve learned having dinners together and family time is a priority. I also balance my work commitments. As a writer my work is steady, and I have to make sure not to take on too many projects. It’s hard for me! Just last week I had to cut out some projects I really like just for the fact that I can’t do it all.

Motherhood 101: Know how much you can say ‘yes’ to! @triciagoyer #momsnightout

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Q: Moms really do sacrifice so much for their families; why is it important for moms to make sure they’re finding rest and encouragement?

I love the well-known phrase, “When Mama ain’t happy, ain’t nobody happy.” When I am exhausted and overwhelmed, my whole family suffers. When I have time for friends and I fuel up on God, then I’m such a better mom. When I’m encouraged, then I pour encouragement out. When I’m rested, I give of myself with patience and love. It’s hard to step away, but so important too!

Q: How often do you get to have a Moms’ Night Out? Do you have a group of mommy-friends you’re able to connect with regularly?

I’m part of a small group of women at our church. They meet monthly, and I’m able to make it about every other month. I also have some girlfriends I’ll meet for lunch. Sometimes it’s hard to justify paying a babysitter to go to lunch, but I always come back refreshed. I also lead a Teen MOPS support group. The attendees and leaders range from age 17-55. We care for one another, love one another and draw support from one another. I get just as much back as I give!

Q: What’s the most comical experience you’ve had on a Moms’ Night Out?

Once a group of writer friends and I had gathered to go to a writers’ conference. We all came to town early to eat dinner at a very expensive restaurant. We dressed up and enjoyed the exquisite gardens as we walked to the front doors, only to discover it was . . . closed! We drove around for a while and finally ended up eating at a hole in the wall barbecue pit with picnic tables (inside), red-checkered, plastic table clothes and plastic forks. Not what we had in mind!

Q: Raising kids can be difficult, but there are some funny moments along the way – share one of your funniest memories involving your kids.

I have one from yesterday. We laughed so hard! Our daughter (six) was riding in the back of the car.

Her: “Mom, Dad!” she called out. “Grandma was sweeping the front porch and a black, wet cat leaped out of nowhere and jumped on her!”

Me: “Sweetie, remember we’ve been working about not lying or not telling stories.”

Her: “I saw a cat.”

It’s just a balance to be creative and to be truthful . . . we try to guide our children in both!

Q: How does your husband help out in those moments when you just have to get a break, like the moms in the film Moms’ Night Out? Are there other people in your life you can turn to?

I have the best husband ever! John and I adopted two children from the foster care system, and they came with a variety of issues. On most evenings, he’d take over the kid duty as soon as he got home from work because he knew I’d had a long day. Then on Saturdays he’d load up the three little ones into his car for an “adventure.” I’d enjoy the peace and write during this time. I also have two wonderful babysitters and some great neighbors who I can reach out to for help. Yes, I am blessed! Having a support system is SO important!

Q: This movie and the novel are both very funny and lighthearted, but the day-to-day tasks of being a mother can become overwhelming. What advice do you have for the mom who is feeling completely overcome by her responsibilities?

Remember that God is there for you. You don’t have to do it alone. One of my favorite Scripture verses is Isaiah 40:11, “He tends his flock like a shepherd: He gathers the lambs in his arms and carries them close to his heart; he gently leads those that have young.” God wants to be there for you to guide you and assist you. Turn to Him. Even quick prayers, blubbered by an exhausted mom, make a difference.

Q: What advice would you give to dads about ways they can help alleviate some of the pressures moms feel?

I’d say that when it comes to helping, every little thing makes a difference. When my husband loads the dishwasher I’m so grateful! Also remind them often of their importance. Moms need to hear this most of all.

Q: Where can our audience find out more about the movie and book editions of Moms’ Night Out?

momsnightoutmovie.com.

What does it take to turn a movie into book? Find out from @TriciaGoyer #momsnightout

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Steps You Can Take

Know your limits. It’s okay to say, “No.”
In the midst of your busy schedule, schedule in “mommy time.”
Get in touch with your girlfriends to find a time that works for all of them to get together.
Make sure you have a support system! Have close friends and neighbors available to help out when needed.
Always remember you are not in this alone, even when it feels like it!
Take time either by yourself or with friends to recharge and re-energize. Your kids don’t need a mom who is completely worn out from trying to do it all.

Daily Prayer

Dear Heavenly Father,

Thank you for blessing me with the gift of children. Guide me as I raise my children after your own heart. Give me the energy to keep up with their needs and help me find time to re-energize so I can be a better, refreshed mom.

In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Resources You Might Like:

Moms’ Night Out by Tricia Goyer
Moms’ Night Out and Other Things I Miss: Devotions to Help You Survive by Kerri Pomarolli

I have a few books on sale right now! Generation NeXt Marriage is $2.99. You can also get my four World War II novels in the Liberators Series for $13.99.

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February 14, 2014 by Tricia Goyer 6 Comments

How to Interview for Non-Fiction Magazines and Books: 17 Tips for Ease and Success!

I’ve been honored over the years to interview hundreds of people for articles, blogs, and books! A few of my non-fiction projects are Life, In Spite of Me and Plain Faith. Throughout the years I’ve learned how to create a better interview—one that will make the subject comfortable and help me as a writer. Here are my tips!

Hey, #writers! @TriciaGoyer shares her tips for creating better #interviews.

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Prepare. Have a short list of questions you want to ask, but don’t be afraid to follow rabbit trails. Sometimes the best stuff comes from windy, unfocused answers.
Meet face-to-face if you can. There’s nothing like sitting across the table from someone to start a good conversation.
Be at ease. When you first meet, start with small talk. Talk about the weather, the latest news, or about what happened so far in your day. Be friendly to loosen things up.
Start with a brain dump. When I’m working on a longer project, I don’t slam the person with questions right away. Instead I ask question that will bring about a “brain dump.” Questions like, “Tell me about your childhood” or “Where did you grow up, what was it like?” Details can be nailed down later, but it’s always interesting how someone explains the narrative of his or her life. What the person chooses to tell (or to hide) is very revealing.
Use a digital recorder. I record all my interviews, and I take very few notes. Make sure you always have extra batteries.
Keep eye contract. Using a recorder allows me to keep eye contract with the person I’m interviewing. It lets the person know I’m not only interested, but I’m willing to build a connection.
Use a notebook or pen for brief notes. I’ll jot down dates, important people, and sometimes the beginning of a quote. It just gives me an idea of what to watch for later when I’m transcribing the interview.
Keep “off the record” off the record. If the person wants to tell you something—but doesn’t want it public—honor that. Turn off the recorder and just listen. Even if you can’t use those words, you’ll receive context.
Don’t fill in the silence. If the person you’re interviewing pauses, don’t rush in with words. Give him or her time to think. The best stuff comes out of what’s hardest to say.
Debrief yourself. When you return home ask yourself, “What impacted me most?” “What made my cry?” “What made me laugh?” Then ask why.
Tell someone else. Find someone you trust and relate what you learned. If it’s important enough to repeat, it’s probably important enough to make it into the article or book. Then ask that person, “What stands out to you about this story?”
Focus on universal themes. The people we interview have interesting lives, but what part of his or her story will resonate most with others? Considering this will help you ask more-detailed questions as you progress.
Look for breath and depth. As you interview, don’t focus solely on the book or article. Get to know the person’s heart, message, and passion.
Create a character sketch. After the interview, create a character sketch of the person. What stands out? What are his or her life themes?
Write what’s compelling. When you sit down to write, focus on what’s compelling. Will part of the story bring others to change . . . or help them see a situation in a different light?
Consider your audience. What will they appreciate most? What details will mean a lot?
Write from your gut. You’ll have time to edit later, but write from your gut. Create scenes—like on the movie screen—and take your reader with you. You’ll be amazed by what you come up with. Your subject will be amazed, too!

How about you? Have you interviewed others for your writing? What tips do you have?

How to #interview for non-fiction books and articles: tips from @TriciaGoyer

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Did you hear the good news? My book The Swiss Courier (that I co-write with Mike Yorkey) is on sale! My new book Balanced is available now via Amazon and Barnes & Noble for only $2.99 (digital only)!

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