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Episode 471: Collaboration Over Competition: How Writers Can Build Trust and Share Success

September 14, 2025

Ever wondered why some writers walk away from collaborative writing or how to spot the green lights (and red flags) in a writing partnership? In this honest and hope-filled conversation, Kathi Lipp and bestselling co-author Susy Flory dive deep into the world of Christian collaborative writing. You’ll hear Susy’s experiences working with celebrities, having books turned into movies, and why she insists on getting her name on the cover. Listeners will learn practical tips for building trust, having hard conversations, and protecting their voice and values—plus the warning signs that signal when a partnership is heading off track. If you’re navigating your own writing journey and long for healthy, faith-based collaboration, this episode is packed with wisdom, relatable stories, and encouragement to tell your unique God-story. Plus, get the scoop on the upcoming West Coast Christian Writers Conference and why Susy and Kathi insist you belong there!

Your Host

Kathi Lipp

Author, Speaker, Writing at the Red House Creator and CEO Kathi Lipp is the host of the Clutter Free Academy podcast, the Writing at the Red House podcast, and the bestselling author of The Husband Project, Clutter Free, Ready for Anything, and An Abundant Place. She and her husband, Roger, live in the mountains of northern California, where they run the Red House Writing Retreats. Over the past 10 years, Kathi has helped hundreds of people increase their platform through teaching and coaching. She is a frequent teacher at writer’s conferences and has helped countless authors and speakers find their audiences. Kathi’s desire to help fellow speakers and authors avoid the mistakes she made, increase their confidence, and be the person God made them to be inspired her creation of Communicator Academy. Her newest adventure is The Red House, where she offers writer’s retreats and Writers in Residence events. Learn more about the Red House at writingattheredhouse.com

About Our Guests

Susy Flory

New York Times Bestselling Author, Memoir Expert

Susy Flory is the New York Times bestselling author or co-author of sixteen books. A graduate of UCLA, she has a background in journalism, education, and communications. She is a breast cancer survivor and an adventurer, writing with celebrities, faith heroes, athletes, and more. She enjoys hiking, skiing, and caring for her ex-racehorse named Stetson.

Website

Resources Mentioned

Writing at the Red House
Official site for Kathi Lipp’s Writing at the Red House ministry, with podcast episodes, retreats, and resources for writers.
Thunder Dog: The True Story of a Blind Man, His Guide Dog, and the Triumph of Trust
Thomas Nelson paperback edition of the 2011 NYT bestseller by Michael Hingson and Susy Flory.
The Unbreakable Boy: A Father’s Fear, a Son’s Courage, and a Story of Unconditional Love
Thomas Nelson trade paperback, now a major motion picture starring Zachary Levi.
The Good, the Bad, and the Grace of God
Memoir by Jep & Jessica Robertson with Susy Flory, published by Thomas Nelson.
Sanctuary: The True Story of an Irish Village, a Man Who Lost His Way, and the Rescue Donkeys That Led Him Home
Tyndale Momentum 2022 book co-authored by Patrick Barrett and Susy Flory.
West Coast Christian Writers Conference 2025
Non-profit annual writers’ conference in Fullerton, CA, scheduled for October 2025.

Full Transcript

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Episode Topics

collaborative writingChristian authorsghostwritingco-authoringhealthy partnershipswriting conferencesChristian publishingWest Coast Christian Writersbook acknowledgmentwriting businessfaith and writingsetting boundariesauthor advicetrust in partnershipswriting tipsSusy Flory

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