Episode 460: The Writer’s Staycation: Making Time for Your Calling
Kathi Lipp and Tenneil Register explore how to bring the magic of a writing retreat right into your own home this summer. If you’ve ever wished you could attend a writing retreat but can’t due to finances, family responsibilities, or other constraints, this episode is your solution.
In this episode, you’ll discover:
- How to set up effective boundaries with your family during your home retreat
- The psychology behind adding play and fun to your writing process
- Practical strategies for creating a camp-like atmosphere in your house
- Why treating yourself like a guest in your own home transforms your writing
- How to prepare your physical and mental space for maximum productivity
- The importance of honoring your calling even when others are inconvenienced
Kathi and Tenneil share real-world examples of how writers with young children have successfully created focused writing time, including specific scheduling strategies and family management tips. They emphasize that if you’re struggling to get words on paper, you’re likely not a lazy writer—you’re a distracted writer.
Special Announcement: Join the 3K Summer Sprint happening July 14-19! Write 3,000 words in just five days alongside a supportive community of writers in the free Facebook group.
Whether you’re working on your first manuscript, developing a book proposal, or building your platform, this episode will help you create the focused writing time you need to honor God’s calling on your life.
Your Host
Kathi Lipp
About Our Guests
Tenneil Register
R7 Reclaimed
Rachael Adams
Promised Resources
- Join the 3K Summer Sprint (July 14-19) in the free Facebook group “Writing at the Red House with Kathi Lipp”
A free Facebook group where you can write 3,000 words in five days with a community of writers.
- The Collective
Discounted access to The Collective, a supportive community for writers hosted by Writing at the Red House.
Resources Mentioned
- The Collective
A membership writing community helping writers pursue their goals together.
- Susy Flory
Website of author, recommended as one of Kathi’s favorite things.
- Tonya Kubo
Website of community builder and leader, recommended by Kathi.
- Kathleen Kerr
About page for Kathleen Kerr at Alive Literary.
- Apple Podcasts – Communicator Academy
Podcast listing for Communicator Academy on Apple Podcasts.
- Subscribe to email list
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Full Transcript
Episode Topics

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