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Dr. Elsa John
Author and Speaker
Dr. Elsa John is an award-winning Christian author, speaker, and podcast host who helps women find hope, healing, and freedom through God’s Word.
With an M.D. and M.H.A., Dr. John brings a unique perspective to conversations surrounding faith, healing, culture, identity, and the wounds people often carry in silence.
She hosts Beyond the Silence: Confronting Culture, a podcast that creates space for honest conversations about the cultural and spiritual issues many people are afraid to address.
Recent works include HOPE: Guided Devotions for the Healing Journey and Ella Jo and Her Broken Joy. Her upcoming book, The Trauma Lens, is scheduled for release in Spring 2027.
Through speaking, writing, and podcasting, Dr. John challenges audiences to confront what keeps them stuck, see their stories through the truth of Scripture, and discover that healing, purpose, and hope are possible through Jesus Christ.
Her message is simple:
You are not alone.
Your story matters.
There is hope.
And that hope is found in Jesus.
SPEAKING TOPICS
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Free, Free Indeed
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Identity in Christ
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Shame, Silence & Freedom
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Hope in Difficult Seasons
Meet Elsa
I was born in India and raised in New York, and now call Edmond, Oklahoma home.
Long before writing became something I shared publicly, it was something deeply personal to me. As a teenager and young adult, I wrote poetry and short stories—often as a way to process what I didn’t yet have the words to say out loud.
Somewhere along the way, I drifted away from that part of myself.
Years later, after completing my devotional and book, I shared the news with a close friend. In that conversation, she reminded me of something I had forgotten—that writing had once been such a meaningful part of my life. She even kept a poem I had given her nearly 30 years ago.
Reading those words again was both sobering and revealing. It captured the heart of a younger version of me—someone navigating struggles I didn’t fully understand at the time, but was already trying to process through words.
Looking back, I can now see how faithfully God was present in every season—even in the ones that felt uncertain or unseen.
Today, writing has become more than just a rediscovered gift. It is a way for me to reflect, to heal, and to share hope with others who may be walking through their own difficult seasons.
What once felt like a quiet, private outlet has now become a meaningful way to connect, encourage, and remind others that God is present—even in the parts of our story we don’t fully understand yet.
Our Special Stories
The Story Behind Devotions of Hope
The Devotions of Hope is my testimony—and it’s also yours. I’ve struggled with sharing my story, unsure how much to say or if it even mattered. But I’ve learned: it does. Your story matters too. Through writing, the Lord showed me how to weave my journey with His story. When our experiences are hidden in Him, they gain purpose, beauty, and hope. Even the hardest moments can shine with God’s grace. This devotional invites you to see Christ in every part of your story and discover that your struggles, healing, and triumphs are part of a greater story of hope. “Being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion.” — Philippians 1:6
The Story Behind the Frowning Ballerina
I wrote this story to capture a special moment in our family, and I’m so grateful I waited until the right time to bring it to life. Writing my devotional was emotionally heavy—each chapter came through tears and reflection. Whenever I needed a break, I would turn to this children’s story. Collaborating with the illustrator and seeing the story take shape gave my heart a soft, joyful pause. This sweet, lighthearted book was the perfect contrast to the weight of the devotional. I can clearly see the Lord’s kindness in giving me these two very different projects. What felt like a simple children’s story became a gentle cushion, a space of hope and joy that carried me through the heavier work
The Story Behind Ella Jo
and Her Broken Joy
I wrote Ella Jo and Her Broken Joy as a children’s version of my own testimony. Life isn’t always easy—disappointments, hurt, and loss are part of the journey. This story captures that journey of hope and healing, showing that everything we truly lack is found in Jesus. The book follows Ella Jo, a little girl whose most precious joy has been taken from her. Feeling empty, she sets out on an adventurous search, visiting different places and trying to fill the emptiness she feels. Along the way, she learns that true, lasting happiness isn’t found in things or places, but in God’s love. Heartwarming and faith-filled, this story invites children to explore hope, perseverance, and the joy that only Jesus can provide.
Hope In Ink Bookstore
Coming in 2027!
Redemption Press
Customer Testimonials
“This book is well-written and so touching! The author is brave and discusses serious topics that a lot of people (especially women) can relate to on some level while giving encouragement to push forward in this life. Her spiritual guidance is very helpful and approachable no matter the current state of your faith. I feel blessed to have this work to turn to during hard seasons of life in the future..”
-SJ
“My husband bought this devotional book for me. I started reading it aloud and was automatically hooked and inspired. Elsa is vulnerable, well versed and well written. It’s amazing to see how the Lord has used her obedience, humility, talents (worship, writing, etc) and ministries in the church and in the family to create something so beautiful. Can’t wait to share this devotional with other ladies in my life. 10/10 recommend!.”
-Jacob
“Raw and honest. A personal journey of recovery and healing..”