My Writer's Diary
Ericka Clay
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Hey, I'm Ericka. I’m an indie author who loves sharing God’s grace through my life’s story. Come alongside me as I give you a glimpse into my life as a wife, mama, writer, and most importantly, a child of God.
Get your free book at erickaclay.com.
Available episodes
Newest first
Oldest first
4 days ago
Why we decided to start homeschooling our daughter again.
God asked us to put our daughter in school last year, and this year? He's asking us to pull her out. Here's the reason behind that decision, some of the curriculum we'll be using next year, and a deep dive into the faith that keeps us trusting an unknown future to a known God.
Click play to hear my heart.
You can find podcast notes and links here: https://erickaclay.com/portfolio/why-we-decided-to-start-homeschooling-our-daughter-again/
Looking for your next great read? Try one of these books: https://erickaclay.com/books/
Want one for free? Subscribe here: https://erickaclay.com/
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May 31, 2023
The perks of being quiet and small.
After a much-needed break over the weekend, I was able to process the ideas of "quiet" and "small" for both my writing and my life.
Today, I meditate on the greatness of God's beautiful universe, how he made woman to be more than just man's sidekick, and how my newly-revised writing space is meant to bring Him honor and glory while never forsaking truth.
Click play to hear my heart.
You can find podcast notes and links here: https://erickaclay.com/portfolio/the-perks-of-being-quiet-and-small/
Looking for your next great read? Try one of these books: https://erickaclay.com/books/
Want one for free? Subscribe here: https://erickaclay.com/
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May 24, 2023
How prayer has changed my writing routine for the better.
Prayer is essential. As Christians, we’re fully aware of this. But do we really understand its powerful nature and how praying according to God’s will can change the course of our lives forever (1 John 5:14-15)?
Today, I talk about how God has put the right women in my life–my prayer warriors–to help me navigate His will for me as I do the same for them. I also talk about how my goals for my writing life have changed (in accordance with His will) and what that looks like for my readers.
Click play to hear my heart.
You can find podcast notes and links here: https://erickaclay.com/portfolio/how-prayer-has-changed-my-writing-routine-for-the-better/
Looking for your next great read? Try one of these books: https://erickaclay.com/books/
Want one for free? Subscribe here: https://erickaclay.com/
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May 20, 2023
Struggling but still standing.
First off, alliteration anyone?
This week, I've been mulling over the "busy" in my life and taking action steps to remove what isn't best for my walk with Jesus. I also have a grateful heart for all those prayers I prayed for good friends who can hear my struggle and still stay by my side.
I also chat a bit about the book I'm writing, the person who will be reading it first (my bestie), and where I'm at on this road called life.
Click play to hear my heart.
You can find podcast notes and links here: https://erickaclay.com/portfolio/struggling-but-still-standing/
Looking for your next great read? Try one of these books: https://erickaclay.com/books/
Want one for free? Subscribe here: https://erickaclay.com/
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May 20, 2023
What I've learned as a former atheist turned Christian.
There's a lot to learn when you become a Christian. But more than that, there's a lot to discern.
Not everything (or everyone) you encounter will be kind, but you do have God's Word to lead you in grace and truth, giving your fellow believers the benefit of the doubt but still keeping the Church accountable to the One in charge of it.
Click play to hear my heart.
You can find podcast notes and links here: https://erickaclay.com/portfolio/what-ive-learned-as-a-former-atheist-turned-christian/
Looking for your next great read? Try one of these books: https://erickaclay.com/books/
Want one for free? Subscribe here: https://erickaclay.com/
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May 20, 2023
Why it's okay to struggle as a Christian.
We find Jesus, and we automatically think that's the end of our troubles. But as Jesus said, "In this world, you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world." (John 16:33)
We're told about true freedom in Christ but what does that look like? And is it an automatic guarantee or a lifelong journey of sanctification where God, in His timing, smooths down our rough edges?
Click play to hear my heart.
You can find podcast notes and links here: https://erickaclay.com/portfolio/why-its-okay-to-struggle-as-a-christian/
Looking for your next great read? Try one of these books: https://erickaclay.com/books/
Want one for free? Subscribe here: https://erickaclay.com/
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May 20, 2023
Maintaining good habits to help conquer sin.
Our world has a problem with the "s" word. We don't want to acknowledge the sick feeling in the pits of our stomachs when we stray away from God's design.
But at a certain point, a lot of us hit rock bottom and are ready to change. With God's help we can release ourselves from the burden of sin and create good, healthy habits that keep our eyes focused on Jesus.
Click play to hear my heart.
You can find podcast notes and links here: https://erickaclay.com/portfolio/maintaining-good-habits-to-help-conquer-sin/
Looking for your next great read? Try one of these books: https://erickaclay.com/books/
Want one for free? Subscribe here: https://erickaclay.com/
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May 20, 2023
Refocusing after loss as a writer.
Loss is hard. But God is so good, He constantly gives us new ways to give Him glory.
As a writer, I'm seeking those ways, asking for His guidance all along. I'm questioning what to do with my literary imprint, Believable Books. Should I grow it and bring on other writers? Should I turn to editing full time? And should I offer print books as well as free ebook downloads?
No matter the answers, I'll be turning to the One who gives them.
Click play to hear my heart.
You can find podcast notes and links here: https://erickaclay.com/portfolio/refocusing-after-loss-as-a-writer/
Looking for your next great read? Try one of these books: https://erickaclay.com/books/
Want one for free? Subscribe here: https://erickaclay.com/
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May 20, 2023
Seeking light in the darkness.
Light is always edging the darkness we're struggling with, even if we can't see it, and I share how I've been seeking that light this week.
I also share my plans to continue to grow my literary imprint, Believable Books, and how I'm seeing growth as a writer.
Click play to hear my heart.
You can find podcast notes and links here: https://erickaclay.com/portfolio/seeking-light-in-the-darkness/
Looking for your next great read? Try one of these books: https://erickaclay.com/books/
Want one for free? Subscribe here: https://erickaclay.com/
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May 20, 2023
Joy in the wake of sadness.
The immense sadness of having to put our dog down reminds me of God's goodness and how He can be trusted even during the hardest parts of our lives.
We aren't promised an easy road as Christians, but we are promised joy in knowing the truth: that Christ suffered and died for our sins and extends forgiveness to those who accept His free gift of salvation.
Click play to hear my heart.
You can find podcast notes and links here: https://erickaclay.com/portfolio/joy-in-the-wake-of-sadness/
Looking for your next great read? Try one of these books: https://erickaclay.com/books/
Want one for free? Subscribe here: https://erickaclay.com/
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May 20, 2023
Conviction's role in marketing my writing.
I've been on a weird journey, both writing-wise and life-wise. But what's remained consistent is the fact that God continues to put up guardrails to keep me from being my own worst enemy.
If only I'd stop leaping over them.
I've made it my mission to start paying attention and being obedient to his requests as I market my writing. It's tough not doing all of the "traditional" things an indie author is expected to do, but I've seen far more growth and purpose doing things His way and not mine.
Click play to hear my heart.
You can find podcast notes and links here: https://erickaclay.com/portfolio/convictions-role-in-marketing-my-writing/
Looking for your next great read? Try one of these books: https://erickaclay.com/books/
Want one for free? Subscribe here: https://erickaclay.com/
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May 20, 2023
Exchanging man's approval for God's.
Galatians 1:10 has been hitting home this week. From determining the best way to share these diary entries to deciding the intentional steps I need to take to be a true servant of Christ, I've been doing a lot of internal searching and a lot of external praying for God's guidance.
Click play to hear my heart.
You can find podcast notes and links here: https://erickaclay.com/portfolio/exchanging-mans-approval-for-gods/
Looking for your next great read? Try one of these books: https://erickaclay.com/books/
Want one for free? Subscribe here: https://erickaclay.com/
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May 20, 2023
My mental health journey as a Christian writer.
I had a rough weekend. My battle with depression, anxiety, and body dysmorphia reared its ugly head again, and I was caught spiraling. However, God is so good. Through His Word and His people, my heart healed quickly after this last episode, and I wanted to share the importance of being open and honest with our mental health struggles for the sake of the Church.
Also, I talk about how this podcast is no longer a podcast, and how I'll really need your help to keep sharing these messages with those who need them.
Click play to hear my heart.
You can find podcast notes and links here: https://erickaclay.com/portfolio/my-mental-health-journey-as-a-christian-writer/
Looking for your next great read? Try one of these books: https://erickaclay.com/books/
Want one for free? Subscribe here: https://erickaclay.com/
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May 20, 2023
Taking hold of my writing future.
I don't have everything figured out. But as I study God's word and remove distractions from my life to hear His voice, I'm met with absolute peace, including when it comes to my writing career.
I share next steps for my books and also talk about the ways God has been moving through my life recently.
Click play to hear my heart.
You can find podcast notes and links here: https://erickaclay.com/portfolio/taking-hold-of-my-writing-future/
Looking for your next great read? Try one of these books: https://erickaclay.com/books/
Want one for free? Subscribe here: https://erickaclay.com/
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May 20, 2023
How self-assessment can heal your heart.
I have problems. You've probably realized this by now. But I do think one of the greatest gifts God's given me is the ability to self-assess my motives.
Self-assessment leads to understanding God's conviction, then to confession, which leads to repentance. It's a hard act of uncovering the wrongs in our hearts. But it's a crucial tool to feel Christ's peace. Click play to hear my heart.
You can find podcast notes and links here: https://erickaclay.com/portfolio/how-self-assessment-can-heal-your-heart/
Looking for your next great read? Try one of these books: https://erickaclay.com/books/
Want one for free? Subscribe here: https://erickaclay.com/
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May 20, 2023
Making changes, finding routine.
I'm making a major life change that is making me feel better, body, mind, and soul.
I also talk about routines. Why they're important and how they've helped equip me mentally as a mom, wife, and writer. Click play to hear my heart.
You can find podcast notes and links here: https://erickaclay.com/portfolio/making-changes-finding-routine/
Looking for your next great read? Try one of these books: https://erickaclay.com/books/
Want one for free? Subscribe here: https://erickaclay.com/
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May 20, 2023
Finding faith through parenting.
I've been letting go in all areas of my life. The hardest? Raising my daughter to know Christ.
But I have faith that God has already marked out her journey and is guiding her by the hand. It's up to me to love her fiercely and to squash any fear I have that she'll stray. Click play to hear my heart.
You can find podcast notes and links here: https://erickaclay.com/portfolio/finding-faith-through-parenting/
Looking for your next great read? Try one of these books: https://erickaclay.com/books/
Want one for free? Subscribe here: https://erickaclay.com/
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May 20, 2023
Why the act of submission has made me a better writer.
I used to think of submission as the "s" word. Now, I find peace in fully surrendering to the path God desires for me, and this surrender extends to my writing career.
I've learned to let go and let God call the shots when it comes to my writing and marketing my books. But I've also learned how submission is fully embodied in Christ's death on the cross and His resurrection. Why not embrace something so life-giving and honoring to others? Click play to hear my heart.
You can find podcast notes and links here: https://erickaclay.com/portfolio/why-the-act-of-submission-has-made-me-a-better-writer/
Looking for your next great read? Try one of these books: https://erickaclay.com/books/
Want one for free? Subscribe here: https://erickaclay.com/
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May 20, 2023
My ultimate goal as a writer.
We often don't keep the main thing the main thing. Our human flesh is always looking for bigger, better, more success. But when we don't put the Gospel at the forefront of our mind, the redeeming path Christ has created for all of us, are we really creating art? Or are we just creating a future the world desires? Click play to hear my heart.
You can find podcast notes and links here: https://erickaclay.com/portfolio/my-ultimate-goal-as-a-writer/
Looking for your next great read? Try one of these books: https://erickaclay.com/books/
Want one for free? Subscribe here: https://erickaclay.com/
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May 20, 2023
Taking care of my writer's body.
I've had a difficult time in my past dealing with body dysmorphia and over-exercising. It led to a lot of darkness. But fortunately, God's grace has led me away from this misguided approach towards my body and to a new understanding of what taking care of myself actually entails.
Healing your body is also a great way to heal the mind. Click play to hear my heart.
You can find podcast notes and links here: https://erickaclay.com/portfolio/taking-care-of-my-writers-body/
Looking for your next great read? Try one of these books: https://erickaclay.com/books/
Want one for free? Subscribe here: https://erickaclay.com/
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May 20, 2023
Saying "no" to social media as a writer...and a human.
My struggle is real with this one. I'm off social media. More accurately, God's asked me to be off social media, and I'm finally giving it up.
How do I do this writing thing without shouting it all over the internet? I share that today, plus what growing as a writer looks like from here on out. Click play to hear my heart.
You can find podcast notes and links here: https://erickaclay.com/portfolio/saying-no-to-social-media-as-a-writerand-a-human/
Looking for your next great read? Try one of these books: https://erickaclay.com/books/
Want one for free? Subscribe here: https://erickaclay.com/
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May 20, 2023
Taking Lent to rest my writer's mind.
Lent starts today. It's something I haven't celebrated since I was a young Catholic girl. But now? I truly understand the importance of resting thoroughly in Christ.
To do this? I'm greatly lowering my caffeine intake. You can probably tell by the sound of this recording how well this process is going lol. But I'm grateful for the opportunity to rest my body and to heal my mind. Click play to hear my heart.
You can find Podcast notes and links here: https://erickaclay.com/portfolio/taking-lent-to-rest-my-writers-mind/
Looking for your next great read? Try one of these books: https://erickaclay.com/books/
Want one for free? Subscribe here: https://erickaclay.com/
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May 20, 2023
Embracing scary as a writer.
Today, I'm taking stock of all the things I enjoy doing for the Lord writing-wise and how I'm not your average bear when it comes to marketing my work.
I also share my latest "scary" endeavor and why I've chosen to go this particular route with my books. Click play to hear my heart.
You can find podcast notes and links here: https://erickaclay.com/portfolio/embracing-scary-as-a-writer/
Looking for your next great read? Try one of these books: https://erickaclay.com/books/
Want one for free? Subscribe here: https://erickaclay.com/
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May 20, 2023
Writing in the desert.
As an indie author, I can relate to the Temple artisans in Exodus 31, creating something so beautiful for God but for few eyes only.
I'm dedicating my work to the Lord, but I'm also suffering from the withdrawals that come when you realize something is not about you but Him.
I'm giving that old mindset over, allowing God to send those who need to read my books and blog to further their walk with Him. And these are my thoughts on the matter. Click play to hear my heart.
You can find podcast notes and links here: https://erickaclay.com/portfolio/writing-in-the-desert/
Looking for your next great read? Try one of these books: https://erickaclay.com/books/
Want one for free? Subscribe here: https://erickaclay.com/
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