BREAKOUT SESSION DESCRIPTIONS (FROM 2008)
This page will be updated with session descriptions for 2009 as soon as the schedule is finalized and sessions are determined. The descriptions from 2008 are provided here just to give you an idea of the type of sessions available during our annual She Speaks conference.
FRIDAY BREAKOUT SESSIONS
She Leads: Women's Ministry Leadership Track (Additional Intensive Pre-Conference Leadership Track Sessions)
10:10 - 11:10 am Choices:
Developing a Dynamic Women's Ministry
(Lysa TerKeurst)
Lysa and her team took Proverbs 31 Ministries from an unknown homemade newsletter to one of the leading women's ministries in America. Find out the leadership principles she’s learned and how to implement them in your ministry. In this presentation, you will be equipped as a leader to inspire your women to do something greater together than they could ever do alone as you:
- Understand what motivates women to serve.
- Develop a vision that women will catch and share with others.
- Distinguish God's direction for your ministry with confidence.
- Celebrate milestones of your ministry's effectiveness and keep your team inspired.
Cultivating a Culture of Mentoring (Amy Carroll)
As you consider the range of ages and stages of the women involved in your church, do you wonder how you can help them connect through mentoring relationships? Based on her experience leading a growing women’s ministry, Amy will help you:
- Identify mentoring relationships principles from the example Jesus set.
- Determine a mentoring culture that would be most effective in your church setting.
- Implement a planning strategy based on various resources available.
Promoting Your Women's Ministry (Glynnis Whitwer)
Women are busy. Long gone are the days when you could put an announcement in your Sunday bulletin and have women flock to your programs. With 20 years in women's ministry combined with a background in Public Relations, Glynnis helps leaders identify the best ways to reach women in their churches and communities. You'll leave knowing how to:
- Get women connected despite busy lives
- Define your target markets and develop effective ways to reach them
- Maximize your ministry message
- Creatively promote your women's ministry in and out of your church
12:50 - 1:50 pm Choices:
Staying Filled Up So You Don't Burn Out
(Tracie Miles)
Serving in ministry can be very rewarding, yet it’s easy to get caught up in the planning and lose sight of your ministry’s purpose and your personal life. In the midst of fueling the hearts of other women, we often forget that we need to be refueled, too! Tracie will help ministry leaders:
- Recognize burnout warning signs
- Implement practical plans to stay encouraged in ministry
- Refuel our hearts to triumph over burnout
Experienceing God's Power in Your Ministry (Mary Ann Ruff)
Have you ever committed your ministry to God in prayer and then worked hard to accomplish your plans in your own strength? In this session, Mary Ann will teach you how to tap into God’s power and do the work of ministry through prayer. You’ll learn how to:
- Discover God’s plans for your women’s ministry through prayer
- Plan and execute programs with guaranteed results that will bear fruit
- Experience the power of God’s presence in your life and ministry
Behind the Scenes: Understanding a Speaker's Needs So She Can Meet Yours
(Rachel Olsen)
You’ve searched, you’ve prayed and you’ve finally found your speaker! So, what will she need? How can you make the most of the investment you’ve made so she can meet the needs of your event? In this session, Rachel Olsen gives you a behind the scenes look at how to form a partnership with your speaker so that real ministry happens both ways. You'll leave knowing
- Ways to help your speaker get to know your audience before she meets them.
- How to pray for your speaker as she prepares the message God has for your event
- Practical things you can provide for your speaker while she is there
- What to say and not to say to encourage your speaker's heart
MAIN SHE SPEAKS CONFERENCE
Friday Breakout Sessions
Please read the breakout descriptions carefully and select one
session in each time frame on your registration form. The following
key should help you make your selections:
(S) The content of this session is designed for
those who want to develop their speaking skills
(W) The content of this session is designed for
those who want to develop their writing skills
(L) The content of this session is designed for
those in women's ministry leadership
(NG) The content of this session is appropriate
for The Next Generation (ages 12-17)
Please note that some of the sessions would benefit more than one
group as indicated.
6:45 - 7:45 pm Choices:
(S) The Real Cost of Ministry (Wendy Pope)
"Here I am LORD send me, I think?" You have signed up for this life of ministry and realize living a life of integrity and godliness while swimming in the fish bowl of the public eye has caused a serious case of motion sickness. Doubt sets in and you question your calling. Come face to face with the risks and REAL costs of ministry to discover the rewards are worth the cost. In this session you will:
- Uncover the risks of living in the fishbowl of ministry
- Renew your love and understanding of ministry
- Discover and embrace the REAL meaning of ministry
(W) The Changing World of Book Publishing: What it Means to Writers (Bill Jensen)
It is said that “it’s not the strongest of the species that survives environmental changes, but the most adaptable.” In this session, Bill Jensen identifies current and emerging changes in the book world and the impact it has on publishers’ decisions. Writers need to know about these trends. The future world of publishing will be only for “the survival of the fittest.” This session will help you:
- Be aware of what is considered “last century” especially by up and coming editors
- Understand what is behind the book making decisions of publishers today
- Learn strategies to take advantage of today’s changes in the world of books
(L) Building a Dream Team of Leaders (Mary Ann Ruff)
Do you struggle with recruiting and keeping volunteers? Is it even possible to build a ministry that attracts leaders and empowers them to serve out of their passion and gifts? In this session you will find answers to your questions and more! With over 20 years experience in Women's Ministry, Mary Ann Ruff will show you how to build a team that accomplishes the mission and vision of your ministry. Step by step you'll learn how to:
- Identify spiritual principles to guide your plans and programs
- Implement practical ideas and training to develop leaders
- Build a dream team that connects women to God's heart, God's purposes and each other
(NG) Living with Purpose: Faith in Practice (RadRevolution Team)
Attend this session if you are a 12-17 year old young woman
with a desire to influence your generation for Christ.
(S/W) Blogging: What Works and What Doesn't (Panel)
Taught by 3 of the top Christian bloggers on the web today - Rocks in my Dryer (Shannon), Boo Mama (Sophie), and Big Mama (Melanie). Blogging is one of the most cutting edge ways to connect with your audience as a speaker and writer. So, whether you've been blogging for a while or simply want to learn more about this exciting way to expand your ministry's reach, don't miss this opportunity to hear from these experts. You'll leave with a confident knowledge of:
- Blog etiquette
- Proven ways to increase your blog’s traffic
- Making the design of your blog user friendly
- Knowing when and how to make money from your blog
- Finding your unique blogging voice
- Building your blog community
Saturday Breakout Sessions
9:30 - 10:30 am Choices:
(S) The Power of a Story (Lysa TerKeurst)
(THIS SESSION IS NOW FULL)
Event planners want speakers who create life-change and lasting impressions. Effective story telling is not only one of the oldest tools of communication, it is also one of the most powerful! In this practical and inspiring session you'll learn:
- How to you use everyday illustrations to communicate life-changing truths.
- Incorporate the key components that every great story needs.
- Tell stories in a way that keeps your audience engaged.
- Weave your stories with Biblical truths that motivate listeners to take action in their lives.
(W) The Pathway to Publication (Susanne Scheppmann)
In the beginning …The Writer’s Market Guide created light out of the author’s darkness. Do you have questions about how to contact, submit, track, and contract your material for publication? This simple systematic approach will launch you on the path to publication.
- How to submit your article and manuscript
- How to rejoice, record, and know your “rights”
- How keep your peace, purpose, and perspective
(L) Cultivating a Culture of Mentoring
(Amy Carroll)
As you consider the range of ages and stages of the women involved in your church, do you wonder how you can help them connect through mentoring relationships? Based on her experience leading a growing women’s ministry, Amy will help you:
- Identify mentoring relationships principles from the example Jesus set.
- Determine the mentoring culture that would be most effective in your church setting.
- Implement a planning strategy based on various resources available.
(NG) Radical Style (Shari Braendel)
Girls love fashion...it's just the way God made us. And whether you're a girly girl or not, clothes and makeup are part of your lives. How do you live in today's society and dress trendy but not conform to the world's standards? In this session, Shari will show you:
- What the latest fashions are and how to wear them
- How to find jeans that fit and flatter
- Makeup trends and application techniques
- Why modest is hottest!
(S/W/L) Dare to Be Dangerous (Zoe Elmore)
Your spiritual life is solid but you are ready to take the next step. In this session Zoe shares the character traits of a Dangerous Woman that transform cowards into conquerors and worriers into warriors. Zoe will explore:
- The Head of a Dangerous Woman
- The Heart of a Dangerous Woman
- The Hands of a Dangerous Woman
10:45 - 11:45 am Choices:
(S) Marketing for More Bookings (Rob Eager)
Every author and speaker wishes their phone would ring off the hook with speaking requests. But, how do you generate consistent bookings for your message throughout the year? Join Rob Eagar, president of WildFire Marketing, as he reveals important strategies to help you market for more bookings. You will learn how to:
- Make your ministry unique
- Understand the booking process
- Generate steady referrals
- Create effective newsletters
- Maximize your speaking demo
Rob Eagar has over six years experience as a successful Christian author and has spoken to more than 35,000 people across North America. He is the President of WildFire Marketing and helps Christian authors and speakers enhance their message, expand their audience, and elevate their income. For more information, call 1-800-267-2045 or visit: www.StartaWildFire.com
Rob is accepting appointments at She Speaks to discuss his marketing services. You must be a full-time speaker, published author, and ready to invest in your ministry. If you would like to schedule a personal meeting, call him at 1-800-267-2045 or email: Rob@StartaWildFire.com
(W) Magazine Writing 101: Honing Your Writing Skills (Glynnis Whitwer)
Writing for magazines is a great way to get your foot in the publishing door, develop a portfolio of published pieces and start creating your platform for future publishing. This session is a must for authors interested in writing an article for magazine or newspaper publishing, as well as anyone who desires to hone their writing skills.
- Learn the characteristics of a strong article
- Develop tools to give power to your ideas
- Review some confusing rules of grammar
- Discover tips on writing dynamic opening and closing paragraphs
(S/L) Reaching Women Through Bible Studies: Church, Community and Neighborhood (Wendy Blight)
We are called to reach the least and the lost but as women in ministry how do we practically accomplish what seems such an overwhelming task? Join Wendy as she shares how to reach women through church, community, and neighborhood Bible studies.
- Prayer and planning, the beginning of any successful Bible study
- Determining your audience, drafting a mission statement, and selecting a curriculum
- Hosting your inaugural event
- Structuring your study to fit your audience
- Shepherding your flock to keep women connected
(NG) Learning To Be Me and Loving It (Tracie Miles)
It’s hard being a girl! Constantly trying to please others and fit in with peers can be emotionally draining. This session will encourage young girls to love themselves for who God made them to be, and help them gain a new perspective on being true to themselves. Tracie will talk to the girls about:
- Allowing God to use the pain of rejection from peers to help us grow spiritually
- Seeking God’s approval, and being confident in who He made you to be
- Importance of a real relationship with Christ and focusing on your inner beauty.
(S/W/L) Preparing for the Battlefield Through Prayer (Luann Prater)
Has God called you to front-line battlefield ministry? Do you ever get discouraged, overwhelmed or filled with doubt right before your event or writing assignment? You are not alone! These are common struggles faced by others in ministry. This session will:
- Give you insight to recognize spiritual warfare
- Equip you with weapons to walk with confidence onto the battlefield
- Prepare and provide you with scripture prayers that will lead you in victory!
1:15 - 2:15 pm Choices
(S) Finding Topics that Fit (Rachel Olsen)
You have a passion to share God and His Word with others. You’re ready to try your hand at this “speaking thing” and create a bio sheet. Only you have no idea how to choose what topics to offer. Rachel will help you:
- Identify your passions and experiences for topics that fit you
- Target your topics to your audience and events
- Create memorable topic titles that stick in the mind of your audience
(W) How to Write a Book (Lysa TerKeurst)
Writing a book can sound like a great dream, but the reality can be a daunting task. Lysa has been through this "birthing process" 11 times. Join her for an honest and practical session on how to write a book from start to finish. Her experience will help you:
- Understand what publishers expect from an author.
- Break down the writing process into manageable bite-size pieces.
- Schedule writing time that allows you keep a balanced life.
- Write a book that will change lives and motivate people to recommend it.
(S/W/L) Working at Home: The Possibilities and the Practicalities
(Glynnis Whitwer)
Whether you already work at home or wish you could so you could focus more on your writing and speaking, this seminar is for you. In it Glynnis will discuss the pros and cons, help you evaluate your options, and include tips on how to make it work. Glynnis and her husband both work from home and she is the author of work@home: A Practical Guide for Women Who Want to Work from Home. In this seminar you will:
- Discover how much money you need to earn to be able to work from home
- Identify the four main types of work and which is best for you
- Learn ways to balance work and home
(NG) Fan or Follower? (Rebecca Ingram Powell)
A fan watches the game. A follower plays the game. Are you sitting on the sidelines when it comes to the Christian life? Do you find it hard to get in on the action and make a real difference for Christ? This session will help you:
- Learn to cooperate with God’s plan for your life
- Choose to believe in God’s purpose for your life
- Resolve to grow in God’s priority for your life
(S) Teaching By the Book (Wendy Pope)
"How did she know that?" Have you ever asked this question of a dynamic speaker whose message strongly impacted your life? Discover how to use the Scriptures in a life-changing way, not only in your messages and writings, but also in your life. Walk through the development of a powerful message and gain insight into how to:
- Develop a scripturally based message from beginning to end
- Use Internet Bible Study tools to enhance the depth of you message
- Bring authenticity to your speaking and writing by living by the Book
2:30 - 3:30 pm Choices:
(S) Captivating the Heart of Your Audience
(Micca Campbell)
Do you struggle with both preparation and presentation? Then Micca has exciting news. This popular session is structured to ease your fears and equip you with the tools you need for preparing and delivering a message that is both captivating and life-changing.
- Understand how to raise a question in the minds of your audience that will be answered in your message
- Captivate your audience through stories, drama, and scripture reading with a fresh new twist
- Internalize your message by following a no-fail outline that can be used in any message
- Bring about change in your audience and leave a lasting impression
(W) Book Proposals that Get Noticed
(LaRae Weikert)
In the competitive world of publishing, it takes a great proposal to get noticed. Because many proposals don’t include critical elements, the publisher never takes them seriously. This session includes practical information based on years of publishing knowledge and experience. Find out:
- How to determine which publishers are interested in your manuscript
- What components are needed to make a proposal dynamic
- How to adapt your proposal to meet the needs and the dynamics of each publishing committee
(L) Purpose-Driven Event Planning (Karen Ehman with Panel of Guests)
Do you long to plan events for your women that will inspire, encourage and pamper your them, but you just don't know where to start? Do you fret about details, volunteers, tasks and how many hours it will take to pull it off? Karen and her panel will show you how to plan and execute purposeful events that honor God and bless your women, too! This session will cover:
- Planning events to reach the needs of women in your unique audience
- Recruiting volunteer to the vision, not to the task.
- Managing and organizing your time and the details during the various stages of planning.
- Find themes, speakers and activities that weave through the whole event connect with your ladies.
(S/W/NG) Bringing Passion to Your Platform
(Marybeth Whalen)
Are you a passionate speaker or writer? Do you even know what your passion is? Maybe you have never defined it, or maybe you have forgotten all about it in the rush to get booked or get a publishing contract. Why does passion in ministry matter? This session will answer that question as well as help you discover:
- Why taking risks is essential to a passionate platform
- How to break down barriers that keep you from taking the risks that will make you a more passionate speaker or writer
- How your passion is unique to your ministry and how God uses that passion to reach people
(S/W/L) Balancing Marriage and Ministry (Melanie Chitwood)
You’re excited about the ministry God’s called you to and ready to jump in with both feet. But wait! How do you do that while honoring the most important person in your life, your husband? Melanie’s session will help you find a godly balance between marriage and ministry. In this session you’ll learn:
- How to establish priorities and boundaries which protect your marriage and support your ministry
- Ways spiritual warfare can affect your marriage and methods to guard your marriage
- How to respond to an unsupportive husband
- Practical tips about balance from other women speakers, writers and ministry leaders
BONUS BREAKOUT SESSIONS (OR FREE TIME!):
3:45 - 4:45 pm Choices:
(S/L) What Not To Wear (Shari Braendel)
You only have seven seconds to make a good first impression, so why not make it your best! With a light-hearted spirit and tell-it-like-it-is best friend style Shari Braendel, speaker and fashion style expert, shares tips and secrets to help you put your best foot (or heels) forward. Shari's enthusiasm is contagious and her advice infectious as she tackles all style issues. Discover what cuts, hem lengths, colors and styles bring out your best features as well as how to avoid the pitfalls of fashion faux pas!
(S/W/L) The Ultimate Blogging Q & A (Panel)
This session will contain everything else you ever wanted to know about blogging. You ask the questions and Rocks in my Dryer (Shannon), Boo Mama (Sophie), and Big Mama (Melanie) will have the answers. And knowing these ladies, there will be some laughing and plenty of fun served up as well. |