Introduction of Guest and Episode Overview
- Host Kim Moeller introduces Robin Jones Gunn as a bestselling Christian author.
- Mention of Robin’s notable works: Sister Chick series, Christy Miller and Sierra Jensen series, Glen Brook series.
- Shout-out to Kim Gore for connecting Kim Moeller with Robin.
Robin Jones Gunn’s Background and Unexpected Writing Journey
- Robin’s initial aspirations to be a missionary.
- College experience at Biola and early ministry work (answering mail for Corrie Ten Boom and Brother Andrew).
- Repeated rejections from missionary organizations, including a Nairobi laundry supervisor role.
- Teaching Sunday school and involvement with teens through her husband’s youth pastor work.
- First attempts at writing: fun children’s books, motivated by teens’ reading interests at a camping trip.
Creation of the Christy Miller Series
- The moment Robin decided to write relevant stories for teen girls.
- Inspiration from observing what teens were reading and wanting to provide Christian alternatives.
- Initial struggle: repeated publisher rejections before Focus on the Family accepted the first book.
- Expansion of the Christy Miller universe to 45+ books, following characters into adulthood.
Other Writing Projects and Series
- Current work on the “Suitcase Sisters” series, inspired by Sister Chick series.
- Two women in their 30s going on global adventures and spiritual journeys.
- Example stories: “Tea with Elephants” (Nairobi) and “Gelato at the Villa” (Italy).
- Ongoing creative projects in response to opportunities.
Writing Discipline, Habits, and Creative Process
- Early writing routines developed while raising kids: waking at 3 a.m., inspired by C.S. Lewis’s habits.
- Importance of discipline and routine for productivity.
- Use of instrumental music for creative focus; location-inspired playlists.
- Unique ritual: lighting a new candle for each new book project.
- Tools used in writing: drafting by hand for first chapters, then typing on a desktop for research and writing efficiency.
Platform of Influence and Faith-based Impact
- Reflections on the broader reach and influence of Robin’s work.
- Story about Corrie Ten Boom’s humility regarding public adulation—“the crown is too heavy.”
- Emphasis on giving glory to God, not seeking personal elevation.
- Success and long-term impact of the Christy Miller books internationally, especially in Brazil and upcoming trip to Brazil for a book fair.
- How God’s plans are more expansive and surprising than her own.
Surrender, Creativity, and Navigating the Arts as a Christian
- The tension and temptations of platform and public attention.
- Ongoing surrender of creative work to God’s purposes.
- Advice to other creatives to align work with God’s will—“Let it be unto me according to your word.”
- Importance of remaining focused on God’s leading, especially in creative careers.
Life Transitions and God’s Provision: Moving from Maui to California
- 10 years living in Maui, enjoying community and church.
- Health crisis with husband during the pandemic, requiring a quick, total move to California.
- Leaving possessions behind and starting anew with only essentials.
- Testimony of God’s provision, direction, and faithfulness throughout difficult transitions.
- Reconnection with family and church in Orange County.
Generosity: Time, Talent, and Resources
- Distinction between financial giving and the value of generosity in time and expertise.
- Robin and her husband’s practice of responding to requests for mentorship, counseling, and support.
- Example: Coordinating book shipments and donations to a teacher and students in Zimbabwe.
- Philosophy of listening for God’s instruction in each opportunity to give.
Advice for Aspiring Creatives
- Encouragement to creatives (artists, writers, musicians) to pursue their God-given talents even when monetization seems difficult.
- Reference to the podcast “Women Worth Knowing” as a resource for inspiration and learning from stories of extraordinary women of faith.
- The value of community, training, and learning from others’ stories of adversity and perseverance.
Personal Practices and Recommendations
- Robin’s favorite Bible verse: Psalm 102:18 and its relevance to her writing legacy.
- Ongoing efforts to adapt the Christy Miller series into movies, choosing donor funding over traditional Hollywood studios for creative control.
- Reading practice: Annotating and journaling through an illustrated edition of the Psalms.
- Favorite bargain tip: Leveraging her daughter’s thrift store finds for home decor.
Closing Remarks
- Encouragement to listeners to live generously in their unique callings.
- Information on contacting Kim Moeller and Robin Jones Gunn for more resources or to support upcoming creative projects.
- Gratitude for Robin’s contributions and encouragement to future generations of creatives.
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/search?term=women%20worth%20knowing
