Creatively Christian - Interviews with Faithful Artists

Christy Award-winning author Mesu Andrews is on the Creatively Christian podcast, interviewed by Andrea Sandefur. On today’s episode, Mesu Andrews shares her writing process and her journey into becoming an author after a time of suffering. She gives us valuable resources for writing fiction, delivers great tips about having productive creative time, and closes the episode by reading from her latest book.
Mesu Andrews is a Christy Award-winning author of biblical fiction. She started out as a speaker and teacher, but a chronic illness sent her to bed rest for six months. This started her on a journey of writing to reach people with God's words. Mesu has won several awards including the 2012 ECPA Book of the Year for a Debut Author for Love Amid the Ashes and a Christy Award for Isaiah's Daughter.
This episode can also be found on YouTube.
Show Notes
The following resources were mentioned in the show or are useful resources recommended by the guests. Links might be marked as affiliates, meaning we earn a commission if you buy through the link.
Jewish Study Bible - https://amzn.to/3irD3I7
Write Your Novel From The Middle: A New Approach for Plotters, Pantsers and Everyone in Between by James Scott Bell - https://amzn.to/3Fh8hdG
The Emotional Craft of Fiction: How to Write the Story Beneath the Surface by Donald Maass - https://amzn.to/3VBGSbG
Writing the Breakout Novel: Insider Advice for Taking Your Fiction to the Next Level by Donald Maass - https://amzn.to/3EN4zXU
The Story Equation: How to Plot and Write a Brilliant Story with One Powerful Question by Susan May Warren - https://amzn.to/3FjSKdn
Learn More About Our Guest
You can follow this guest on several platforms, including:
Website - https://mesuandrews.com/
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/mesuandrews/
Twitter - https://twitter.com/MesuAndrews
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/MesuAndrews
Credits
Today's episode is hosted by Andrea Sandefur. Andrea is a civil engineer turned stay-at-home mom and singer-songwriter. She plays the piano, leads worship at her church, and loves to write new songs. One of Andrea’s favorite activities is encouraging creative artists in her congregation through hosting artist showcases. Follow Andrea on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
Support this show and get access to exclusive content by donating at https://www.patreon.com/creativelychristian . This show is produced by Theophany Media ( https://www.theophanymedia.com ). The theme music is by Bill Brooks and Andrea Sandefur. Our logo is by Bill Brooks. This show is hosted by Brannon Hollingsworth, Andrea Sandefur, Dave Ebert, and Rachel Anna. Jake Doberenz produces. Follow Theophany Media and the podcast on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
Get full access to Creatively Christian at creativelychristian.net/subscribe

Singer/songwriter, author, and entrepreneur Aaron Everitt is on the Creatively Christian podcast, interviewed by Andrea Sandefur. Aaron shares about writing his book and how savvy business skills helped him tour with his band. He reframes our view of making money, explaining why we don't have to villainize the making of money, and defines his own approach to business as ministry. Stay tuned after the episode to hear an original song by Aaron.
Aaron Everitt is an author, musician, and entrepreneur living in Colorado. He has a background in church and a degree in theology but spends most of his time in the business world. Aaron also coaches Christian entrepreneurs and speaks at faith-based conferences.
This episode can also be found on YouTube.
Show Notes
The following resources were mentioned in the show or are useful resources recommended by the guests. Links might be marked as affiliates, meaning we earn a commission if you buy through the link.
Careless in the Care of God by Aaron Everitt - https://amzn.to/3fp3OvG [Affiliate]
Careless in the Care of God Podcast - https://anchor.fm/aaroneveritt
Learn More About Our Guest
You can follow this guest on several platforms, including:
Website - https://carelessinthecare.com/
Credits
Today's episode is hosted by Andrea Sandefur. Andrea is a civil engineer turned stay-at-home mom and singer-songwriter. She plays the piano, leads worship at her church, and loves to write new songs. One of Andrea’s favorite activities is encouraging creative artists in her congregation through hosting artist showcases. Follow Andrea on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
Support this show and get access to exclusive content by donating at https://www.patreon.com/creativelychristian . This show is produced by Theophany Media ( https://www.theophanymedia.com ). The theme music is by Bill Brooks and Andrea Sandefur. Our logo is by Bill Brooks. This show is hosted by Brannon Hollingsworth, Andrea Sandefur, Dave Ebert, and Rachel Anna. Jake Doberenz produces. Follow Theophany Media and the podcast on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
Get full access to Creatively Christian at creativelychristian.net/subscribe

Fashion designer and professor BJ Arnett is on the Creatively Christian podcast, interviewed by Brannon Hollingsworth. BJ came from a deeply creative and entrepreneurial background but still needed a mindset shift to fully come into her God-given talent. She shares her spiritual testimony and how she got into fashion design, art, and education. Through her journey, BJ learned that you have to be very careful with who you surround yourself and how many compliments you accept.
BJ Arnett is the host and co-producer of the award-winning BJA Today, a CamyArnett Production Studios original and host of TV 57’s This Day with BJ Arnett. BJA Today recently garnered a Telly Award for editing and the Audience Choice for a TV Show award from the International Christian Film and Music Festival. She is also the creator of the very first HBCU Art and Fashion Week established in 2021. BJ has an MBA, BA in Fashion Merchandising and an AA in Fashion Design and is currently the Interim Chair of the Art and Fashion Department at the prestigious Clark Atlanta University (CAU).
This episode can also be found on YouTube.
Show Notes
The following resources were mentioned in the show or are useful resources recommended by the guests. Links might be marked as affiliates, meaning we earn a commission if you buy through the link.
Clark Atlanta University website: https://www.cau.edu/Her husband Cameron Arnett's website: https://www.cameronarnett.com/
Learn More About Our Guest
You can follow this guest on several platforms, including:
BJ's website: https://www.bjarnett.com/BJ's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bjatoday/BJ's Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/billi.arnettBJ's production company: https://www.camyarnett.com/
Credits
Today's episode is hosted by Brannon Hollingsworth the Chief Creative Officer ofBrainy Pixel, who was born to create. An author, speaker, poet, publisher, game designer, content creator, scriptwriter, art director, and unapologetic Christ-follower, Brannon is a passionate creator and teacher of youth who promotes family-oriented ministries. Follow Brainy Pixel on Twitter, Instagram, or Facebook.
Support this show and get access to exclusive content by donating at https://www.patreon.com/creativelychristian . This show is produced by Theophany Media ( https://www.theophanymedia.com ). The theme music is by Bill Brooks and Andrea Sandefur. Our logo is by Bill Brooks. This show is hosted by Brannon Hollingsworth, Andrea Sandefur, Dave Ebert, and Rachel Anna. Jake Doberenz produces. Follow Theophany Media and the podcast on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
Get full access to Creatively Christian at creativelychristian.net/subscribe

Author and theologian Luke Aylen is on the Creatively Christian podcast, interviewed by Andrea Sandefur. Luke Aylen talks about his fantasy book series and the various ways he has honed his writing craft. At the end of the episode, Luke shares a special scene from one of his books.
Luke Aylen is the author of three older children/young adult fantasy adventure novels. He recently became ordained as a priest in the Church of England and is doing post-grade research in theology. Previously, Luke has worked on both the stage and screen as a creative director and owner of a film production company.
This episode can also be found on YouTube.
Show Notes
The following resources were mentioned in the show or are useful resources recommended by the guests. Links might be marked as affiliates, meaning we earn a commission if you buy through the link.
Luke’s Book Series: An Adventure in Presadia - https://amzn.to/3y1u1GA [Affiliate]Recommended YouTube lecture series (Brandon Sanderson: 2020 Creative Writing Lectures at BYU)- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0cf-qdZ7GbA&list=PLSH_xM-KC3Zv-79sVZTTj-YA6IAqh8qeQRecommended Book Series – The Wind on Fire Trilogy by William Nicholson - https://amzn.to/3frjHkG [Affiliate]
Learn More About Our Guest
You can follow this guest on several platforms, including:
Luke's Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LukeAylenAuthor
Credits
Today's episode is hosted by Andrea Sandefur. Andrea is a civil engineer turned stay-at-home mom and singer-songwriter. She plays the piano, leads worship at her church, and loves to write new songs. One of Andrea’s favorite activities is encouraging creative artists in her congregation through hosting artist showcases. Follow Andrea on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
Support this show and get access to exclusive content by donating at https://www.patreon.com/creativelychristian . This show is produced by Theophany Media ( https://www.theophanymedia.com ). The theme music is by Bill Brooks and Andrea Sandefur. Our logo is by Bill Brooks. This show is hosted by Brannon Hollingsworth, Andrea Sandefur, Dave Ebert, and Rachel Anna. Jake Doberenz produces. Follow Theophany Media and the podcast on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
Get full access to Creatively Christian at creativelychristian.net/subscribe

Artist and author Christ John Otto is on the Creatively Christian podcast, interviewed by Rachel Oxborough. Christ describes the importance of struggling as an artist and shares his advice to never take advice. He also dives into an important theme in his theology of art: trusting in God and living without fear.
Christ (rhymes with "wrist") John Otto directs Belonging House, an international hub for artists which aims to build Jesus a throne on earth. He has published ten books for artists. Originally in pastoral ministry, he eventually found his calling as a full-time artist and encourager of Christian creatives.
This episode can also be found on YouTube.
Show Notes
The following resources were mentioned in the show or are useful resources recommended by the guests. Links might be marked as affiliates, meaning we earn a commission if you buy through the link.
Very God: An Artist Explores the Nicene Creed by Christ Otto: https://amzn.to/3S9AoznChrist's Poetic Theology for Artists books: https://amzn.to/3qXzc6FAn Army Arising: Why Artists are on the Frontline of the Next Move of God by Christ Otto: https://amzn.to/3BH2aOd
Learn More About Our Guest
You can follow this guest on several platforms, including:
https://www.christjohnotto.com
Credits
Today's episode is hosted by artist and art therapist Rachel Oxborough. With her company ColorMeIn Wellbeing, Rachel has worked with individuals, businesses, and government programs to support mental health using art and creativity. Follow Rachel on Instagram, or Facebook.
Support this show and get access to exclusive content by donating at https://www.patreon.com/creativelychristian . This show is produced by Theophany Media ( https://www.theophanymedia.com ). The theme music is by Bill Brooks and Andrea Sandefur. Our logo is by Bill Brooks. This show is hosted by Brannon Hollingsworth, Andrea Sandefur, Dave Ebert, and Rachel Anna. Jake Doberenz produces. Follow Theophany Media and the podcast on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
Get full access to Creatively Christian at creativelychristian.net/subscribe

Producer and director Laura Ann Heaton Gray is on the Creatively Christian podcast, interviewed by Brandon Hollingsworth. Laura Ann discusses her drive to make faith-based films and how she goes about learning things she doesn't know. She goes into details about the challenges of the film industry and tips on getting your foot in the door.
Laura Ann Heaton Gray is a director, producer, screenwriter, actor, and motivational speaker working in the faith-based film industry since 2012. She has been blessed to produce several award winning films and nominated for filmmaker of the year with the international Christian film festival in 2020 & 2021. Currently, she is based in Huntsville, Alabama where she owns and operates Excelsior Studios, a faith-based production company providing commercial advertising to business and corporations in north Alabama, as well as film productions both large and small.
This episode can also be found on YouTube.
Learn More About Our Guest
You can follow this guest on several platforms, including:
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/t/ZTRe8SKwR/Laura Ann's speaking page: https://www.facebook.com/Laura-Ann-Heaton-Gray-Motivational-Christian-Speaker-111606931578169/Laura Ann's YouTube: https://youtube.com/channel/UC92W00kXXR5PzCnx7tHBVigLaura Ann's IMDb: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm6018514/
Credits
Today's episode is hosted by Brannon Hollingsworth the Chief Creative Officer ofBrainy Pixel, who was born to create. An author, speaker, poet, publisher, game designer, content creator, scriptwriter, art director, and unapologetic Christ-follower, Brannon is a passionate creator and teacher of youth who promotes family-oriented ministries. Follow Brainy Pixel on Twitter, Instagram, or Facebook.
Support this show and get access to exclusive content by donating at https://www.patreon.com/creativelychristian . This show is produced by Theophany Media ( https://www.theophanymedia.com ). The theme music is by Bill Brooks and Andrea Sandefur. Our logo is by Bill Brooks. This show is hosted by Brannon Hollingsworth, Andrea Sandefur, Dave Ebert, and Rachel Anna. Jake Doberenz produces. Follow Theophany Media and the podcast on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
Get full access to Creatively Christian at creativelychristian.net/subscribe

Singer-songwriter Joy Dame is on the Creatively Christian podcast, interviewed by Andrea Sandefur. Joy Dame writes both worship songs and songs geared toward reaching the next generation. She talks with Andrea about how God opens doors through collaboration, specifically song co-writing (she's a pro at this!). We also get to hear one of Joy’s original songs at the end of the episode, so be sure to stick around to enjoy that.
Growing up in Michigan, Joy dreamed of writing and singing Christian music since the day her dad took her to a Steve Green concert. After Bible school, she and her husband moved to France to serve as missionaries. There God further formed her as a worship leader and songwriter through the pain of loss, joy of healing, and her passion for reaching others with the gospel in song. Her ministry in the U.S and overseas have involved Productions and Concerts in schools, prisons, camps, and social events. She and her husband and three boys now live in Florida. She enjoys writing songs for other artists as well and is currently working on her own next two singles.
This episode can also be found on YouTube.
Show Notes
The following resources were mentioned in the show or are useful resources recommended by the guests. Links might be marked as affiliates, meaning we earn a commission if you buy through the link.
God Songs by Paul Baloche: https://www.amazon.com/God-Songs-Write-Select-Worship/dp/1933150033/ref=sr_1_4?crid=O6JV2OM4MQSP&keywords=paul+baloche+god+songs&qid=1659912902&sprefix=paul+baloche+god%2Caps%2C794&sr=8-4Songwriting : Essential Guide to Lyric and Structure by Pat Patterson: https://www.amazon.com/Songwriting-Essential-Structure-Techniques-Writing/dp/0793511801/ref=sr_1_2?crid=3FG4GKPLQF6VV&keywords=pat+patterson+songwriting+essentials&qid=1659912964&sprefix=pat+patterson+songwriting+essenti%2Caps%2C494&sr=8-2The Songwriter’s Workshop: Melody by Jimmy Kachulis: https://www.amazon.com/Songwriters-Workshop-Melody-Berklee-Press/dp/0634026593/ref=sr_1_1?crid=W0NM00OZ847O&keywords=jimmy+kachulis+melody&qid=1659913019&sprefix=jimmy+kachulis+melody%2Caps%2C434&sr=8-1Andrea Stople on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/andreastolpeofficial/Lake City Lights Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/488962356343614
Learn More About Our Guest
You can follow this guest on several platforms, including:
Joy's Website: https://joydamemusic.com/Joy's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/joydamemusic/Joy Dame Music Tribe: https://www.facebook.com/joydamemusic
Credits
Today's episode is hosted by Andrea Sandefur. Andrea is a civil engineer turned stay-at-home mom and singer-songwriter. She plays the piano, leads worship at her church, and loves to write new songs. One of Andrea’s favorite activities is encouraging creative artists in her congregation through hosting artist showcases. Follow Andrea on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
Support this show and get access to exclusive content by donating at https://www.patreon.com/creativelychristian . This show is produced by Theophany Media ( https://www.theophanymedia.com ). The theme music is by Bill Brooks and Andrea Sandefur. Our logo is by Bill Brooks. This show is hosted by Brannon Hollingsworth, Andrea Sandefur, Dave Ebert, and Rachel Anna. Jake Doberenz produces. Follow Theophany Media and the podcast on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
Get full access to Creatively Christian at creativelychristian.net/subscribe

Comedian and DJ Jessica It's All Good is on the Creatively Christian podcast, interviewed by Dave Ebert. Jessica talks about her leap of faith into entertainment (including experiencing homelessness!) and how her dreams changed over time. She also touches on her boundaries in doing comedy.
Jessica It’s All Good is “the entertainer you will NEVER forget.” She’s a DJ, stand up comedian, member of the national improv group Fish Sticks as a member of the Atlanta team, and she’s also an emcee. From her website, “Jessica It's All Good is a vibrant, clean and positive comedian who is here to change the world one mic at a time! This southern, chocolate dipped lady brings to the stage her unique perspective, high energy, and a bold stage presence that appeals to the masses. With a background in theatre and leadership, Jessica produces comedy shows around the Greater-Atlanta area. She performs all over Georgia, the USA, and online.
This episode can also be found on YouTube.
Show Notes
The following resources were mentioned in the show or are useful resources recommended by the guests. Links might be marked as affiliates, meaning we earn a commission if you buy through the link.
Fish Sticks Comedy Group - https://fishstickscomedy.com
Learn More About Our Guest
You can follow this guest on several platforms, including:
Jessica's website - http://jessicaitsallgood.comFacebook - http://facebook.com/JessicaItsAllGoodInstagram - http://instagram.com/jessica_itsallgood
Credits
Today's episode is hosted by Dave Ebert. Dave has years of experience as an improviser, actor, speaker, and improv coach. He is also a credentialed minister with the Assemblies of God. Before finding improv, Dave spent over eight years traveling as a pro-wrestler. Dave also hosts theGifts4Glory podcast. Find Dave on Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook as @RealDaveEbert.
Support this show and get access to exclusive content by donating at https://www.patreon.com/creativelychristian . This show is produced by Theophany Media ( https://www.theophanymedia.com ). The theme music is by Bill Brooks and Andrea Sandefur. Our logo is by Bill Brooks. This show is hosted by Brannon Hollingsworth, Andrea Sandefur, Dave Ebert, and Rachel Anna. Jake Doberenz produces. Follow Theophany Media and the podcast on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
Get full access to Creatively Christian at creativelychristian.net/subscribe

Screenwriter Ben Johnson Jr is on the Creatively Christian podcast, interviewed by Brannon Hollingsworth. Ben shares his miraculous journey into writing for film and television and describes the themes he loves to explore. Ben also discusses habits and behaviors that can set creatives apart from their peers and get them more opportunities.
Ben Johnson Jr is a screenwriter and content creator who's passionate about telling authentic, emotionally compelling, universally-appealing stories. Ben grew up in a previously disadavantaged community in South Africa during the apartheid years. He's comfortable in both the feature film and TV drama spaces. He's worked as a headwriter, storyliner, and scriptwriter on 12 television shows and led several series developments. To date, he has written 5 short films and 11 feature films, including two novel-to-screen adaptations, and an international martial arts co-production between South Africa and Thailand. His screenplays have placed highly in both local and international script competitions. His thriller script, CANAAN, won the feature diversity category of the 2019 Final Draft Big Break Contest. In 2020, Ben was invited to pitch two of scripts at the Berlin Film Festival's Africa Finance Hub and is a NYFC Fellowship Alumnus. Additionally, he has served as a council member of the Writers Guild of South Africa(WGSA) and a judge for both the WGSA Muse Awards and the South African Film and Television Awards (SAFTAS).
This episode can also be found on YouTube.
Show Notes
The following resources were mentioned in the show or are useful resources recommended by the guests. Links might be marked as affiliates, meaning we earn a commission if you buy through the link.
Ben's IMDB Page - https://www.imdb.com/name/nm9484454Ben's YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCaET29jssqnyuUhY3kQjeGA
Learn More About Our Guest
You can follow this guest on several platforms, including:
Twitter - https://twitter.com/BenJohnson2018
Credits
Today's episode is hosted by Brannon Hollingsworth the Chief Creative Officer ofBrainy Pixel, who was born to create. An author, speaker, poet, publisher, game designer, content creator, scriptwriter, art director, and unapologetic Christ-follower, Brannon is a passionate creator and teacher of youth who promotes family-oriented ministries. Follow Brainy Pixel on Twitter, Instagram, or Facebook.
Support this show and get access to exclusive content by donating at https://www.patreon.com/creativelychristian . This show is produced by Theophany Media ( https://www.theophanymedia.com ). The theme music is by Bill Brooks and Andrea Sandefur. Our logo is by Bill Brooks. This show is hosted by Brannon Hollingsworth, Andrea Sandefur, Dave Ebert, and Rachel Anna. Jake Doberenz produces. Follow Theophany Media and the podcast on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
Get full access to Creatively Christian at creativelychristian.net/subscribe

Musician, author, and podcast host Susan Hoekstra is on the Creatively Christian podcast, interviewed by Andrea Sandefur. Susan and Andrea talk about the differences between validation and affirmation, the gift of collaboration, and how judgment can affect our creative work. One of Susan’s original songs is also featured at the end of the episode.
Susan Hoekstra has been featured in Just Between Us magazine, Christian Devotions, and is a featured guest on PROCLAIM FM radio and numerous podcasts. She is the host of THE NOTICE podcast. Her book "A FIRM GRASP" explores the need for acknowledgment and approval and how the God of mercy satisfies! In the Spring of 2022, she and her husband purchased Maple Ridge Place, a 14-acre property that has become the home of Affirm Ministries and Freedom Farm Ministries, offering workshops, one on one mentorships, praise gatherings, equine therapy, gardening, and more.
This episode can also be found on YouTube.
Show Notes
The following resources were mentioned in the show or are useful resources recommended by the guests. Links might be marked as affiliates, meaning we earn a commission if you buy through the link.
"A Firm GRASP: Feeling Validated in a Notice-Me World" by Susan Hoekstra - https://amzn.to/3bDzpHnRick Norris' episode on Creatively Christian: https://theophanymedia.com/rick"How to Stop the Pain" by James B. Richards: https://amzn.to/3ucPBWx [Affiliate]Maple Ridge Place (Farm Retreat): https://susankhoekstra.com/maple-ridge-place
Learn More About Our Guest
You can follow this guest on several platforms, including:
Website: https://susankhoekstra.com/Facebook : https://www.facebook.com/susankhoekstra/The Notice Podcast: https://susankhoekstra.com/podcast
Credits
Today's episode is hosted by Andrea Sandefur. Andrea is a civil engineer turned stay-at-home mom and singer-songwriter. She plays the piano, leads worship at her church, and loves to write new songs. One of Andrea’s favorite activities is encouraging creative artists in her congregation through hosting artist showcases. Follow Andrea on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
Support this show and get access to exclusive content by donating at https://www.patreon.com/creativelychristian . This show is produced by Theophany Media ( https://www.theophanymedia.com ). The theme music is by Bill Brooks and Andrea Sandefur. Our logo is by Bill Brooks. This show is hosted by Brannon Hollingsworth, Andrea Sandefur, Dave Ebert, and Rachel Anna. Jake Doberenz produces. Follow Theophany Media and the podcast on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
Get full access to Creatively Christian at creativelychristian.net/subscribe