Rod Wilson on writing for academic versus popular audiences and his newest book
What’s different for you in writing for academic versus popular audiences?
When I write, teach or preach, I use four questions to clarify my motivation and goals. To what degree is the message going to (1) increase information, (2) deepen understanding, (3) shift attitude or (4) develop skill? A blend of all four makes more impact.
What do you enjoy when you’re not writing?
I enjoy working with global church and nonprofit leaders in a mentoring-coaching-counselling role, being on a team that does governance work with seminaries, participating with a bereavement organization, and maintaining a speaking and teaching ministry.
I’m also a husband, father, friend, daily walker, someone who hopes for a Vancouver Stanley Cup and has spent years trying to master golf.
Tell us about your newest book.
Boomer Blessings: Flourishing on the Last Laps (Cascade, 2027) explores the water Baby Boomers (people born between 1946 and 1964) have been swimming in. We’ve taken in messages about flourishing and living the good life – messages around education and employment, sex and songs, feminism and family, psychology and me, money and consuming, politics and faith, death and dying. We are left to wonder whether these are reliable and whether we may benefit more from the stunning intrusion of blessing.
Rod Wilson’s books include Thank You. I’m Sorry. Tell Me More: How to Change the World with 3 Sacred Sayings (NavPress, 2022) and others on counselling, fundraising and anger. He has worked as a psychologist, pastor and college president. He’s also a senior writer at Faith Today.