Speaking Topics and Endorsements

Host a Groovy Chicks' Night Out!

Does your women's group need a fun night--an evening of inspiration, comedy, music, fellowship and encouragement? Why not bring Starshine, Dena's "Groovy Chick" alter-ego, to your church or organization?

Dena can customize the evening to suit your needs, but recent past "Groovy Chicks'"  events have included a "Who Wants to Be a Groovy Chick?" game show and a sing-a-long, hosted by Starshine. After a brief intermission for door prizes and announcements, Dena (who has changed back into "herself") gives a speech on "Finding Peace in a Chaotic World."

Here's what one event planner had to say after hosting a "Groovy Chicks' NIght Out" at her church:

"I just wanted to tell you again how much we enjoyed last night. I think it was a refreshing change to a lot of the ladies. It is always nice to do something a bit out of the ordinary. It was fun, and touching and sweet. I think Starshine becomes you and you are a natural at it. Thank you for a special night."

Endorsements

"Thank you so much for speaking to our group. I think you really reached several people, including myself. We are very uncertain about my husband's job situation right now, which you know can be very depressing. You really made me think about things in a new way and thank God for different blessings. " LeAnn Weigel, MOPS Coordinator, Richardson, Texas

"Oh my gosh you were amazing!  Thank you so much for coming out to speak with us.  God truly used you to touch hearts at our meeting. You are a blessing." Rebekah Oursler, MOPS Coordinator, Haltom Springs, Texas

"You were such a blessing to our Aglow meeting. It was one of the most blessed meetings of the year. Thank you again for sharing your heart with us." Susie Hackett, Fort Worth area club President, Aglow International

"Thank you so much for sharing your story of God's love and encouragement . . . His joy and boldness shows forth in you as you speak. You are very genuine in your representation of our Lord. He has gifted you with such talent to sing so beautifully, and what a perfect song you chose to complement your testimony. May He continue to work His harvest through your servant's heart." Southwestern Dallas Christian Women's Club

"On behalf of the Christian Women's Job Corps, we want to thank you so much speaking to our participants about journaling. The information was not only valuable to them, but will also help them grow in their walk with the Lord. Thank you for taking time out of your busy schedule to share with them and be a part of our vision to help these women go from dependency to self-sufficiency."  Carol Seay, Christian Women Job Corps Site Coordinator, Granbury, Texas

"We are still talking about what a blessing you were when you spoke for us a few months ago. We pray God will continue using you for many years to come, with the many talents he has given you to draw others to himself."  Hattie Waters, Chair, North Dallas Women's Connection

"Thanks for coming Dena and for making the long trek! My husband is in his last year at Dallas Theological Seminary and I was reminded of all the ways God has provided for us during this crazy time in our lives, listening to your talk. Thanks so much for sharing that with us!" Mary Magee, MOPS Coordinator, Dallas, Texas

Popular Topics:

Dena’s speaking style has been called “engaging”, “genuine”, “delightful”, and “challenging”. She has spoken to a wide variety of both secular and Christian groups. Dena's audiences have included MOPS, Aglow, Women's Connection, Lions' Club, schools and many other organizations.

Note for meeting planners: many of Dena's talks are available on CD.

FOR WOMEN...

***NEW*** The Grooviness of Girlfriends (CD available)

Why are friendships so important? Discover the reason we need friends and gain encouragement about making time for relationships--especially with Jesus (who wants to be our Best Friend!)--in this upbeat and poignant speech.

Only Cats Have Nine Lives: Purr-fect Peace for Busy Women (CD available)

Many women feel stressed out, burned out and worn out. Dena uses humorous anecdotes, personal examples and scripture passages to point listeners towards a life of peace and contentment.

Why Can’t Shopping Be my Spiritual Gift?

Find those bargains that you love to brag about! In this speech, Dena, gives tips on where to shop, when to shop, and how to use wise shopping as a ministry tool (really!).

***NEW*** Finding Peace in a Chaotic World

Though we may not like it, God often uses crazy (and even tragic) times to teach us more about Him. In this program, Dena touches on five scriptural keys to living a life characterized by God's peace--even in the most difficult circumstances.

When You Don't Feel Groovy: Dealing with Depression (CD available)

How do we find hidden gifts in the hard times? Dena shares a testimony of hope, which is full of humor and scriptural examples of biblical characters who struggled with depression. Dena also gives women ideas on how to spot and recover from depression. Included is a resource list of books, scriptures and other tools to aid in dealing with the disease.

A Garden of Gratitude (CD available)

In the midst of a crazy world, how do we resist cynicism and despair? One way is by becoming—and remaining—grateful. In this garden-themed presentation, Dena shares tips on planting, watering, pruning and reaping a thankful heart. She also gives examples of specific ways parents and grandparents can raise grateful kids.

FOR WRITERS...

Writing Personal Essays for Fun and Profit (CD available)

Writing personal essays is a great way to hone the craft and gain writing credits. In this class, participants will discover ways to gain an editor’s interest by making their submission stand out from the crowd. They’ll also receive a comprehensive list of anthologies, magazines and websites that publish essays.

The 15-Minute Writer (CD available)

In this speech, Dena shares tips on finding the raw material for fillers and anecdotes, which are quick to write and simple to sell. Participants will learn how to spot the multiple markets for short pieces, as well as how to craft, revise and submit them.

The Organized Writer (CD available)

This session gives writers practical tips on how to organize their files, research, thoughts and time. Using "Personality Training" principles, Dena shows aspiring and established writers how to tap into their strengths to create a profitable,  enjoyable (and maintainable!) working environment.