Introduction
In this insightful interview, Dr. Susan Agbenoto, author of New Wine: A Journey into Refueling Your Life in the Spirit and Restore Me! But Privately, Please (The People Cannot Know), shares her unique journey of faith, writing, and personal transformation. Recorded during the Audiobook Connection podcast with host Becky Parker Geist, this conversation delves into how Dr. Agbenoto blends her professional life and spiritual calling into her books and audiobooks, offering hope and renewal for listeners and readers searching for deeper spiritual engagement.
Background: A Lifelong Passion for Writing and Faith
Dr. Agbenoto recounts that her love for writing began early, with notebooks full of reflections and stories spanning many years. Her writing journey evolved from short stories into a more academic yet conversational style, balancing substantive content with accessibility. She highlights how journaling serves as a therapeutic and spiritual practice, helping her process life’s challenges and deepen her relationship with God.
“When you write, it’s almost therapeutic… I write and pray at the same time, receiving insights and revelations.”
From Journals to Published Books
Her published works grew from thoughtful reflections and journal entries coalescing into full manuscripts. During the COVID-19 pandemic and her doctoral studies, Dr. Agbenoto revisited her writings that ultimately became New Wine and Restore Me. These books address restoration and spiritual renewal with themes grounded in scripture and personal experience.
Exploring the Books: New Wine and Restore Me
New Wine: Refueling Your Spiritual Life
New Wine speaks to anyone seeking a fresh start or deeper connection in their faith journey. Dr. Agbenoto describes it as a guide for believers and seekers feeling spiritually stagnant, offering keys to move into a renewed and vibrant relationship with the Lord.
Restore Me: Renewal for Caregivers and Ministers
Restore Me targets caregivers, ministry workers, and those feeling drained or burnt out. Drawing on her own experiences and conversations with others facing emotional exhaustion, the book emphasizes the necessity of rest and restoration to avoid burnout, cynicism, and spiritual failure.
“You can give until you have nothing more to give, but you still have to be strong for others. You need to refresh yourself to keep going.”
The Audiobook Experience: Bringing Spiritual Messages to Life
The creation of the audiobooks brought a new dimension to Dr. Agbenoto’s work. Recorded partly in Portland, Oregon, with co-narration by host Becky Parker Geist, the process was both challenging and rewarding. Dr. Agbenoto found special meaning in narrating the prayers and proclamations herself, fulfilling a longtime dream of using her voice to offer hope and encouragement.
The Power of the Spoken Word
Dr. Agbenoto and Becky discussed how the voice conveys intimacy and affirmation. The Bible’s teaching that “faith comes by hearing” underscores the importance of audiobooks to reach people who benefit from spoken encouragement and spiritual guidance.
“There’s power in hearing a voice telling you you’re strong, lovely, and that God is with you.”
Looking Ahead: Upcoming Projects and Where to Find More
Dr. Agbenoto is actively working on her next book, The Prayer Altar, which focuses on enhancing one’s connection with God through prayer. She envisions recording this book as well to extend its healing impact through audio.
For readers and listeners eager to explore her work, Dr. Agbenoto’s books are available on Amazon, with audiobooks soon accessible via Amplify Audiobooks and other platforms that support authors. You can stay updated on her work by visiting her website: Susan-Acbenodo.com.
Conclusion
Dr. Susan Agbenoto’s journey of spiritual renewal through writing and audio storytelling offers valuable insights for anyone seeking restoration amid life’s challenges. Her ability to merge academic rigor with heartfelt conversational style and the unique power of audiobooks makes her a compelling voice in faith-centered literature. Whether you are a caregiver feeling overwhelmed or a believer longing for deeper connection, her works provide pathways to hope, renewal, and fresh spiritual vitality.
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