In case you prefer text, here's the video script.

 Hey, writer-friends, in case we haven't met, I'm Becky Blue, the owner and Chief Encouragement Officer of Christian Writers Institute. My favorite thing in the world is helping writers access solid education, and I am so thrilled you have enrolled in this incredible course brought to you by master storyteller Jim Rubart.

I have followed Jim for years, and based on his content, I imagined a creative, intelligent individual who worked hard to learn the craft and who is now truly passionate about helping other writers. When I had a chance to speak with him face to face, I was thrilled to find out that he fits that description in real life.

Jim's writing has won awards. He's a Christy Hall of Famer. He's spoken all over the place. He's well regarded in the writing and publishing industry, and yet he's incredibly humble and kind, and he cares deeply about the journey and the success of other writers.

I can't wait for you to get to know him through these classes. In case you're not familiar with the history, Jim taught in person for years then recorded these classes with his son, Taylor. When it was time for Jim to move on to other projects, Steve Laube, CWI's President Emeritus, recognized the value of these courses and secured the rights so we could offer the material here at the Christian Writers Institute.

Writing is serious business. Maybe you've heard this one. A surgeon tells a writer friend, "I'm taking six weeks off this summer to write a book." The writer says, "Oh, have you studied writing?" The surgeon laughs. "No, but I listened to a couple of podcasts. How hard can it be? What are your summer plans?" The writer says, "I wanted to try surgery, so I talked your hospital into letting me take your place while you're out. I've listened to a couple of podcasts. How hard can it be?"

No one, at least no one sane, would perform surgery without proper training. Writing also requires training and practice. Writing well and clearly matters. Like surgery, our writing can change lives. In fact, your writing might save a life. I'm so glad you believe building your writer education and honing your craft are necessary and valuable.

I know you do because you're here. Every minute, every hour we put into learning to write to the best of our ability is time well spent. I am certain God honors the time we invest to ensure we produce excellent work as we represent him. Enjoy the classes. I can't wait to hear what you loved best about this course.