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## Episode 144: Is Your Life Story Actually a Memoir?

[Amy Lynn Simon](https://substack.com/@amylynnsimon)

Jun 23, 2026

Transcript

Have you been thinking about writing your life story as a memoir? Before you start, there are some important distinctions every writer needs to understand. Getting clear on them could save you months of frustration.

In this episode, I breaks down the difference between memoir and autobiography, help you identify _who_ you’re really writing for, and offer a honest word about emotional readiness before you share your story with the world.

**In this episode, you’ll learn:**

- Why autobiography and memoir are not the same thing  
- The three audiences to consider before you write your story (yourself, your family, or a wider readership)  
- What memoir actually is: a specific transformation, not your whole life story  
- Why you need to heal privately before you share publicly  
- How to use your personal experience as illustration rather than the centerpiece of your writing  
- Why hiding behind your story might be fear in disguise

**Resources mentioned:**

- Bible study resources from Jana Carlson: [janacarlson.com](http://www.janacarlson.com/)  
- Free download: **10 Questions to Ask About Your Reader and Message** → [amylynnsimon.com/free-writing-resources](http://amylynnsimon.com/free-writing-resources)

**Recommended books on memoir writing (not all from a Christian perspective):**

[“Writing Life Stories” by Bill Roorbach](http://xn--writing%20life%20stories%20by%20bill%20roorbach-vc13adc/)  
[“Tell it Slant” by Brenda Miller and Suzanne Paola](https://a.co/d/0bGH8o7H)  
[“Handling the Truth” by Beth Kephart](https://a.co/d/0fQR0fpC)  
[“The Art of Memoir” by Mary Karr](https://a.co/d/0dhOpTos) _(contains some language, fyi)_  
[“The Memoir Project” by Marion Roach Smith](https://a.co/d/0fTmad2e)  
[“Your story Matters” by Leslie Leyland Fields](https://a.co/d/04RMqWqF)

_The Purposeful Pen is a weekly podcast for Christian writers designed to help you build a writing life with eternal impact. Each week you’ll hear practical tips and Biblical truth on topics such as improving your writing, honing your message, and managing your time. I always respond to listener emails and I’d love to hear from you! Amysimon@amylynnsimon.com_