The Author's Corner: Recent Episodes
Robin Colucci
For aspiring authors, writing a book is a lifelong dream, but one that can seem to be just out of reach. The process of writing a book can be both exciting and frustrating. The idea can be there , but sometimes we get stuck and can’t seem to find the inspiration to move forward.
If you are an expert in your field who is thinking about writing a book, you’ve come to the right place. Welcome to The Author’s Corner, a show where we will help you unlock your creativity and write the book of your dreams. Hosted by Robin Colucci, we bring you some of the most prolific and successful authors in the business, as well as other industry experts, to share some inspiration, motivation, tactical strategy, and fun!
Robin Colucci helps world-class experts write world-changing books. Her clients have been published by “Big 5” and other top publishing houses, and others have self-published. Many have won awards, received outstanding book reviews, and/or become bestsellers on Amazon, USA Today, and The New York Times bestsellers lists.
Clients come to her for help to write a substantive book that supports their aims. Whether professionals, top scientists, CEOs, astronauts, Nobel laureates, or non-profit founders, Robin’s clients see that to write a book and get it published can help open doors to new opportunities, expand brand awareness, deepen brand loyalty, gain greater recognition and influence, and enhance credibility.
Robin has real-world publishing experience. Her first job out of college was working with a New York Times bestselling author who mentored her for three years on what it takes to develop, pitch, write, publish, and promote a book. She helped research, write, and edit three books in three genres during her tenure - one fiction, one academic text, and one mass-market nonfiction book.
Just before becoming a book writing coach, Robin was an acquisitions editor for an independent publishing house. Put in charge of selecting works for publication, Robin realized that subject-matter experts need help to move their book projects from start to finish.
Before that she worked as a journalist, reporting for a mid-sized metropolitan newspaper, and has researched and/or written freelance articles for The Washington Post, The New York Times Magazine, and Newsweek.
We know that every writer is unique and there is no single path to authorship. However, the most successful authors have highly effective habits that help them reach their goals. Discover their best practices as well as their journey to becoming bestselling authors. Let Robin and her guests provide you the strategy of not just writing a book but writing a book that helps you go to the next level in your career and your business.
There’s never an excuse to write a lousy book. So whether you’ve been aspiring to be an author since childhood or just a few minutes ago, we are dedicated to providing you all the knowledge you need to write one... and write it well! Join The Author’s Corner today and start your life’s opus!
Summary:
If you’ve been tuning into The Author’s Corner, you know we’ve been exploring how AI is making waves in publishing — both its potential and the pitfalls to avoid when writing books.
To deepen the conversation, I brought in AI expert Pete Pachal to share his insights on how AI is reshaping media and PR.
If you’re an author or expert curious about AI’s potential to boost media exposure, this conversation is packed with tips and strategies you won’t want to miss. Today’s guest, tech journalist and AI strategist Pete Pachal, shares his insights into leveraging AI while avoiding its pitfalls.
In episode #175 of The Author’s Corner, Pete Pachal, founder of The Media Copilot, talks about his journey from tech editor at Mashable to leading AI strategist. He explains how to use AI tools to personalize pitches, automate campaigns, and streamline content creation — without falling victim to fact-checking failures and hallucinated information. Tune in for Pete’s expert advice on using AI effectively to transform your media and PR strategy!
Key takeaways:
- Explore AI’s impact on media and content creation.
- Discover Pete Pachal's shift from journalism to AI consulting.
- Learn how PR pros use AI for media monitoring.
- Uncover AI’s role in personalizing PR campaigns.
- Recognize how AI is changing media relationships.
- Recognize how AI may act deceptively to meet goals.
- Understand why AI can’t replace human judgment in fact-checking.
- And much more!
Resources mentioned in this episode:
- ChatGPT (OpenAI)
- Media Copilot
- Meltwater, Cision, Muckrack, and Signal
- Notebook LM (Google)
- Perplexity
- Grammarly
About Pete Pachal:
Pete Pachal is a former Tech Editor at Mashable and founder of Media Copilot. With over 20 years of tech journalism experience, Pete now teaches creative professionals how to harness AI for media and PR strategy. He’s crafted AI guidelines for major publications and developed innovative content strategies at companies like CoinDesk. He has been featured on TV news, including appearances on Fox Business, CNN, and The Today Show.
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- http://robincolucci.com/
Summary:
As the year draws to a close, it’s time to reflect on the lessons of 2024 and look ahead to the opportunities of 2025.
In this final installment of my Robin’s Holiday Riff series, I share how to build a strong foundation for your publishing journey in 2025.
From refining your ideas to ensuring you’re ready to take that next big step, I’ll guide you through the critical elements that set successful authors apart.
In episode #174 of The Author’s Corner, In this Robin Riff, Robin explores how to lay the foundation for a successful publishing journey. From sharpening your message to ensuring your platform is ready to support your goals, this episode dives into the critical elements that can transform your ideas into a polished, impactful book. Along the way, listeners will also uncover the seven pillars of publishing success—essential insights that will prepare them to take their book from concept to completion with confidence.
Key takeaways:
- Why setting goals is crucial for your writing journey.
- The surprising impact of continuous improvement.
- How fresh perspectives can unlock new ideas.
- Why building a following can make or break your success.
- The secret to actually achieving your writing goals.
- The often-overlooked importance of patience.
- Why engaging with your audience matters more than you think.
- And much more!
Resources mentioned in this episode:
- Vistage – Peer advisory group for CEOs and entrepreneurs.
- ChatGPT – AI tool for writing assistance and content creation.
- Grammarly – AI-powered writing assistant for grammar and style improvement.
- David Neagle – Personal development coach and mentor.
About Robin Colucci:
Robin Colucci is the principal founder of World Changing Books. With over 3 decades of experience in journalism and the publishing industry, she is a multi-hyphenated professional—she's a guide, mentor, and strategist for thought leaders ready to see their expertise and ideas become a lasting legacy that changes the world.
Under Robin's expert guidance, World Changing Books has helped authors—from CEOs, astronauts, and Nobel laureates to emerging voices—secure over $6.3 million in advances in a mere 4 years. These authors have successfully landed deals with “Big 5” publishers, won prestigious awards, and earned bestseller statuses everywhere from Amazon to The New York Times.
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Join The Author’s Corner Community today:
- http://robincolucci.com/
Summary:
As winter sets in, there’s no better time to cozy up with a great book—and Robin has the perfect recommendations for you.
In this second installment of Robin’s Holiday Riff series, Robin is sharing the top three winter reads that will inspire, guide, and elevate you as an aspiring author.
In episode #173 of The Author’s Corner, Robin highlights two must-read books that can transform your writing journey and shares a special recommendation of several types of books every aspiring author should explore. From pushing through writer’s block to understanding how to craft messages that truly resonate, these reads will help you grow your skills and set you up for success in 2025.
Key takeaways:
- Why reading is essential for becoming a better writer.
- The benefit of non-fiction books
- The importance of studying different writing styles
- Tips for writing about sensitive topics.
- How reading widely can enhance your writing skills.
- And much more!
Resources mentioned in this episode:
- How to Write a Book That Sells You by Robin Colucci
- Joy Writing by Kenn Amdahl
- The Blind Side,The Big Short,Moneyball by Michael Lewis
- The Tipping Point,Outliers,What the Dog Saw by Malcolm Gladwell
- The U2 Affair,The Invisible Government,Tiger Trap by David Wise
- Ellen Goodman
- I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings,Heart of a Woman by Maya Angelou
- Anything We Love Can Be Saved by Alice Walker
- All About Love by Bell Hooks
About Robin Colucci:
Robin Colucci is the principal founder of World Changing Books. With over 3 decades of experience in journalism and the publishing industry, she is a multi-hyphenated professional—she's a guide, mentor, and strategist for thought leaders ready to see their expertise and ideas become a lasting legacy that changes the world.
Under Robin's expert guidance, World Changing Books has helped authors—from CEOs, astronauts, and Nobel laureates to emerging voices—secure over $6.3 million in advances in a mere 4 years. These authors have successfully landed deals with “Big 5” publishers, won prestigious awards, and earned bestseller statuses everywhere from Amazon to The New York Times.
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Summary:
As we close out 2024, I’m excited to guide you into the new year with the first of three installments of my Robin’s Holiday Riff series.
In this first episode, I’ll share valuable lessons from writing, navigating publishing, book promotion, author support, and more—helping you enter the new year with fresh insights and inspiration you won’t want to miss.
In episode #172 of Author's Corner, Robin reflects on the lessons learned from a year of writing and publishing. She discusses the significant effort and investment required for book promotion, the importance of supporting aspiring authors, and the necessity of visibility in sharing one's message. Robin emphasizes the value of feedback and the continuous learning process in the creative journey, culminating in her own experiences with a one-woman show and future performances.
Key takeaways:
- The unexpected effort behind book promotion
- Why readers are the key to a world-changing book
- The importance of support in growing your author audience
- The power of feedback in refining your work
- Why waiting to feel ready could hold you back
- Seeking advice from those who’ve achieved what you want
- Why sharing and testing your content leads to real progress
- And much more!
About Robin Colucci:
Robin Colucci is the principal founder of World Changing Books. With over 3 decades of experience in journalism and the publishing industry, she is a multi-hyphenated professional—she's a guide, mentor, and strategist for thought leaders ready to see their expertise and ideas become a lasting legacy that changes the world.
Under Robin's expert guidance, World Changing Books has helped authors—from CEOs, astronauts, and Nobel laureates to emerging voices—secure over $6.3 million in advances in a mere 4 years. These authors have successfully landed deals with “Big 5” publishers, won prestigious awards, and earned bestseller statuses everywhere from Amazon to The New York Times.
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Summary:
Ever wondered how ChatGPT and other AI systems can help you write your book faster without risking plagiarism?
Robin’s exploring just that in this new episode of The Author’s Corner!
And if you’re new to using AI in writing, you’re not alone—Robin’s diving into it too!
In episode #171, Robin shares her first insights on leveraging AI in the book-writing process, focusing on two main tools: plagiarism detection and rephrasing. Robin discusses how AI can catch unintentional plagiarism and assist in rewording passages to maintain originality, all while emphasizing the importance of preserving your voice and giving credit where it’s due. She highlights practical tips for fact-checking and ensuring proper citations, especially with AI’s occasional tendency to reference secondary sources over originals.
Key takeaways:
- How AI can help detect unintentional plagiarism
- The role of AI in rewording content to maintain originality
- The importance of editing AI-generated text to match your voice
- Why citing original sources is crucial, even when rewording
- How to ensure accuracy when using AI to rephrase
- The value of fact-checking AI content
- And much more!
About Robin Colucci:
Robin Colucci is the principal founder of World Changing Books. With over 3 decades of experience in journalism and the publishing industry, she is a multi-hyphenated professional—she's a guide, mentor, and strategist for thought leaders ready to see their expertise and ideas become a lasting legacy that changes the world.
Under Robin's expert guidance, World Changing Books has helped authors—from CEOs, astronauts, and Nobel laureates to emerging voices—secure over $6.3 million in advances in a mere 4 years. These authors have successfully landed deals with “Big 5” publishers, won prestigious awards, and earned bestseller statuses everywhere from Amazon to The New York Times.
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Summary:
Ever wondered how to get a TV interview? Our latest episode reveals the insider secrets to making it happen!
If you’re an author or expert aiming to gain media exposure, this conversation is full of tips and strategies you won’t want to miss. Today’s guest, seasoned news anchor and TV host Nicole Nalepa, shares her unique perspective on what it takes to stand out to anchors and producers.
In episode #170 of The Author’s Corner, Nicole Nalepa talks about her journey from morning news anchor to co-host of Great Day at 9A and host of Mommyhood Unscripted, now airing as a TV show. She unpacks key tactics for crafting an email pitch, common mistakes to avoid, and the importance of authenticity in connecting with media gatekeepers. Tune in for Nicole’s expert advice on navigating the TV interview process and getting your story the attention it deserves!
Key takeaways:
- Explore the importance of pursuing your passion and dreams.
- Discover how to effectively pitch a story.
- Learn the significance of concise and engaging communication.
- Uncover the benefits of personalized pitches.
- Recognize the value of authenticity in media appearances.
- Explore strategies for increasing your chances of being invited as a guest.
- And much more!
Resources mentioned in this episode:
- Nicole’s Podcast: Mommyhood Unscripted
- WFSB-TV News
- Nicole’s Favorite Book: My Name is Memory by Ann Brashares
About Nicole Nalepa:
Nicole Nalepa is a seasoned news anchor, TV host, and podcast producer known for her mom-focused show, Mommyhood Unscripted. After over a decade waking up Connecticut on WFSB-TV’s morning news, she transitioned to a daylight role, now co-hosting Great Day at 9A and the Noon newscast with segments like Family Friday and 3 Things You Need to Know & 1 You Don’t. Her Mommyhood Unscripted podcast, featuring candid conversations with experts on motherhood, also became a TV show on WWAX, airing Sundays at 8:30 a.m. Nicole's journalistic experience includes covering major events like the Boston Marathon bombing manhunt and Hurricane Sandy.
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Summary:
If you missed our last Robin’s Riff, you might not know it’s National Book Month!
As an editor and lifelong book lover, I’ve been reflecting on why I read—and I’m excited to share some thoughts in this week’s episode of The Author’s Corner.
Whether you’re a fellow word geek or just enjoy getting lost in a good mystery, I think you’ll relate!
In Episode #169 of The Author’s Corner, Robin shares her personal reasons for reading, emphasizing its value in her life. She discusses reading as an editor, for pleasure, to gain knowledge, and as a means to relax. Colucci highlights the joy of engaging with different genres, including mysteries and humor, and the importance of reading print books for better sleep. She invites listeners to reflect on their own reading habits and the benefits they derive from books.
Key takeaways:
- The unique value reading brings to life
- Why editing feels like solving a puzzle
- Exploring guilty pleasure reads like mysteries
- How print books can improve your sleep
- The surprising benefits of reading before bed
- The balance between entertaining and informative reads
- Gaining insights from historical books
- And much more!
About Robin Colucci:
Robin Colucci is the principal founder of World Changing Books. With over 3 decades of experience in journalism and the publishing industry, she is a multi-hyphenated professional—she's a guide, mentor, and strategist for thought leaders ready to see their expertise and ideas become a lasting legacy that changes the world.
Under Robin's expert guidance, World Changing Books has helped authors—from CEOs, astronauts, and Nobel laureates to emerging voices—secure over $6.3 million in advances in a mere 4 years. These authors have successfully landed deals with “Big 5” publishers, won prestigious awards, and earned bestseller statuses everywhere from Amazon to The New York Times.
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Summary:
Ever wondered how storytelling can ignite social change and inspire communities? Our latest episode dives deep into this compelling topic!
If you’re passionate about using your writing to address critical societal issues, this conversation is packed with insights you won’t want to miss. Today’s guest, an acclaimed author and publishing expert, shares her profound understanding of the power of narrative in activism!
In episode #168 of The Author’s Corner, Dr. Amanda Nell Edgar discusses her journey from academia to founding Page & Podium Press. She unpacks how authentic storytelling can create real impact, debunks the myth of writer's block, and introduces the four quadrants of storytelling that resonate with readers. Make sure to listen in for Amanda’s expert advice on embracing vulnerability in your writing and leveraging your narrative to champion social justice!
Key takeaways:
- Explore the importance of storytelling in addressing social justice issues
- Understand the misconceptions surrounding writer's block and how to overcome them
- Discover the elements that contribute to effective storytelling
- Learn how authenticity and clarity enhance reader connections
- Uncover the role of vulnerability in impactful narratives
- And much more!
Resources mentioned in this episode:
- Page & Podium Press Website
- Amanda Edgar’s Book: The Summer of 2020: George Floyd and the Resurgence of the Black Lives Matter Movement
About Dr. Amanda Nell Edgar:
Dr. Amanda Nell Edgar is an award-winning author, ghostwriter, and the founder of Page & Podium Press. She co-authored The Summer of 2020: George Floyd and the Resurgence of the Black Lives Matter Movement , authored two nationally award-winning books, and ghostwritten many more. After a fifteen-year stint in academia, Amanda left university life to found Page & Podium Press, a publishing company that helps leaders share their stories and ideas through world-changing books. Additionally, Amanda has been invited to speak at organizations ranging from FedEx to the National Communication Association to the U.S. Department of State, sharing relatable examples and digestible philosophy on issues of identity, leadership, and socially conscious storytelling.
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Summary:
October is National Book Month, and it’s the perfect time to celebrate everything we love about books!
In honor of this, I’ve got some fun and simple ways to help you celebrate and reignite your love for books.
In Episode #167 of The Author’s Corner, Robin shares a few creative ideas on how to make the most of this special month, whether you're looking to discover something new or find a fresh way to enjoy your favorite reads. I’ve also got a surprising tip on how to refresh your bookshelf—and your mind—just in time for the fall reading season!
Key takeaways:
- The joys of visiting your local library this month
- Uncovering the charm of independent bookstores
- The unexpected power of writing reviews
- Engaging with kids to foster a love for reading
- Discovering the uniqueness of each independent bookstore
- The importance of supporting local bookstores
- And much more!
About Robin Colucci:
Robin Colucci is the principal founder of World Changing Books. With over 3 decades of experience in journalism and the publishing industry, she is a multi-hyphenated professional—she's a guide, mentor, and strategist for thought leaders ready to see their expertise and ideas become a lasting legacy that changes the world.
Under Robin's expert guidance, World Changing Books has helped authors—from CEOs, astronauts, and Nobel laureates to emerging voices—secure over $6.3 million in advances in a mere 4 years. These authors have successfully landed deals with “Big 5” publishers, won prestigious awards, and earned bestseller statuses everywhere from Amazon to The New York Times.
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Summary:
Ever wondered what it really takes to become a New York Times bestseller?
It’s a journey that requires strategy, dedication, and a deep understanding of the publishing industry!
Today, my guest, Michael Drew, a book marketing expert, joins us to share his incredible insights and experiences in helping authors achieve bestseller status.
In episode #166 of The Author’s Corner, Michael Drew shares his journey from high school dropout to helping authors achieve New York Times bestseller status. He discusses the role of bestseller lists in curating books for readers, the mechanics of publishing, and the challenges of getting books on retail shelves. Michael also highlights the need for a strong marketing platform, understanding publishing costs, and negotiating co-op budgets. He introduces the 741 rule, explaining how to reach customers through multiple channels, and outlines the five standards for making the New York Times list, while also mentioning other key bestseller lists.
Key takeaways:
- How tying your book back to your business can establish trust
- The importance of marketing and promotion in publishing
- Recognizing the challenges in the publishing industry
- The value of a bestseller lies in the effort to meet the standards
- What to expect regarding publishing expenses
- Understanding revenue breakdowns for better negotiations
- The 741 rule for effective customer engagement
- The five standards for qualifying for the New York Times bestseller list
- And more!
Resources mentioned in this episode:
- The Promotabook Website
- Google's Study Zero Momment of Truth
- The Wizard of Ads by Roy H. Williams
About Michael Drew:
Michael Drew is a book marketing expert, entrepreneur, and the CEO and founder of Promotabook. With over 26 years of experience in the publishing industry, Michael has launched 104 consecutive books onto national bestseller lists, including over 130 New York Times, Wall Street Journal, and USA Today bestsellers. He has also orchestrated more than 1,000 number-one Amazon titles. Michael’s strategic marketing campaigns have significantly boosted the visibility and profitability of numerous authors.
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Summary:
Did you know that some of the most challenged books are also among the most read?
As we celebrate National Banned Books Week, I find it fun to think about how the most challenged books of all time also happen to be among the world’s top perennial best sellers.
If you've ever wondered why these books are targeted or what they have in common, this week’s Robin’s Riff is for you.
In Episode #165 of The Author’s Corner, Robin Colucci discusses the significance of National Banned Books Week by exploring the top 10 most challenged books of all time. She reflects on the themes and controversies surrounding these literary works, particularly focusing on George Orwell's 1984 and its relevance in today's society. The conversation emphasizes the irony that many banned books are also bestsellers, highlighting the ongoing struggle against censorship and the importance of freedom to read.
Key takeaways:
- Why certain books consistently face bans and challenges
- How censorship efforts often backfire
- The societal tensions and historical shifts reflected in the reasons behind specific book bans
- Why George Orwell’s 1984 remains a crucial and timely read in today’s sociopolitical climate
- My personal reflections and connection to these enduring banned books
- And much more valuable insight awaits!
About Robin Colucci:
Robin Colucci is the principal founder of World Changing Books. With over 3 decades of experience in journalism and the publishing industry, she is a multi-hyphenated professional—she's a guide, mentor, and strategist for thought leaders ready to see their expertise and ideas become a lasting legacy that changes the world.
Under Robin's expert guidance, World Changing Books has helped authors—from CEOs, astronauts, and Nobel laureates to emerging voices—secure over $6.3 million in advances in a mere 4 years. These authors have successfully landed deals with “Big 5” publishers, won prestigious awards, and earned bestseller statuses everywhere from Amazon to The New York Times.
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Summary:
Ever wondered how some books skyrocket to national bestseller status while others fade into obscurity? Our latest episode has some answers!
If you're aiming to take your book to the next level, this conversation holds a treasure trove of insights you won't want to miss. As our guest today, a fellow publishing expert with a track record of creating bestsellers, shares his invaluable expertise!
In episode #164 of The Author’s Corner, Kevin Anderson shares his journey from a small farm in northern Alberta to the heights of the publishing world. He offers invaluable advice on what it takes to create a bestseller, the importance of storytelling, and how to navigate the ever-evolving landscape of the publishing industry. Make sure to listen in for Kevin’s expert tips on everything from manuscript preparation to marketing strategies that can propel your book to bestseller status.
Key takeaways:
- Explore the intricate criteria determining various bestseller lists.
- Understand why some books make the cut while others don’t.
- Discover the crucial role of sustained and consistent efforts in book promotion.
- Gain insights into the importance of having a unique angle and staying authentic to create stories that resonate widely.
- Learn about ethical versus unethical promotion strategies.
- And more!
Resources mentioned in this episode:
- Kevin Anderson & Associates Website
- The Subtle Art of Not Giving a Fck* by Mark Manson
- Atomic Habits by James Clear
- Principles by Ray Dalio
About Kevin Anderson:
Kevin Anderson is a #1 New York Times-bestselling editor, a #1 national-bestselling author, and an entrepreneur who has built multiple 7- and 8-figure editorial service businesses. His flagship company, Kevin Anderson & Associates, has helped produce more than 200 New York Times bestsellers and 600 national bestsellers, supporting a network of 500+ freelance writers and editors. KAA is responsible for launching the #1 New York Times bestselling YA series, Five Nights at Freddy's by Scott Cawthon, the New York Times bestseller, Welcome to Dunder Mifflin: The Ultimate Oral History of The Office by actor Brian Baumgartner and former NBC co-chairman Ben Silverman, and the WSJ bestseller Built, Not Born by multi-billionaire Tom Golisano, among many others.
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Summary:
If the idea of AI makes you uneasy, you’re not alone. Many authors fear that AI could feel impersonal or replace the creative touch that makes their work unique.
But what if AI could actually enhance your marketing strategy without taking away your personal touch?
In episode #163 of The Author’s Corner, Heidi Yarger shares her journey from traditional social media marketing to using AI tools like ChatGPT. Heidi explains how she uses ChatGPT to generate content ideas, create captions, and even summarize podcast conversations. She emphasizes the importance of personalizing the AI-generated content and the need for human involvement in the process. Heidi also discusses the effectiveness of different types of posts and the challenges of navigating the ever-changing social media algorithms.
Key takeaways:
- How AI like ChatGPT can supercharge your book marketing.
- The key to making AI-generated content work for you.
- Why video and carousel posts are game-changers for authors.
- Boost engagement by aligning posts with your book’s themes.
- How AI tools can spark fresh ideas for your social media.
- Give readers a peek behind the curtain with exclusive content.
- Why staying active on social media is crucial for success.
- Keep promoting your book—long after the launch.
- How engaging with readers can grow a loyal fanbase.
- And more!
Resources mentioned in this episode:
- The Spitfiregirl Website
- Heidi’s Instagram
- ChatGPT
- Canva
- Books:
- Chicken Soup for the Soul by Jack Canfield and Mark Victor Hansen
- Rich Dad Poor Dad by Robert Kiyosaki
About Heidi Yarger:
Heidi Yarger is Founder & Creative Director of Spitfiregirl, an award-winning agency for visionaries, leaders and doers ready to take the next step. Using brand strategy and thoughtful design, Heidi & her team help authors go beyond traditional book marketing to help them show up and show out online - creating a personal brand and social media strategy that will serve you before, and long after your book launch.
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Summary:
Have you ever considered how impactful the acknowledgments section of your book can be?
If you're looking for guidance on how to effectively and appropriately express your gratitude to those who supported your book-writing journey, you'll want to tune in to our latest episode.
In Episode #162 of The Author’s Corner, Robin Colucci discusses the importance of writing acknowledgments in a book. She emphasizes that writing a book is a collaborative effort and highlights the many people who contribute to the author's journey. Tune in to learn the right way to write your acknowledgments and understand the significance of recognizing everyone who has played a role in the book's creation.
Key takeaways:
- Why writing acknowledgments is an essential part of the book-writing process
- The importance of acknowledging everyone who contributed to your book
- How being specific about each person's contribution can add depth and meaning to your acknowledgments
- The impact of the acknowledgment section on your reader
- And much more valuable insight awaits!
About Robin Colucci:
Robin Colucci is the principal founder of World Changing Books. With over 3 decades of experience in journalism and the publishing industry, she is a multi-hyphenated professional—she's a guide, mentor, and strategist for thought leaders ready to see their expertise and ideas become a lasting legacy that changes the world.
Under Robin's expert guidance, World Changing Books has helped authors—from CEOs, astronauts, and Nobel laureates to emerging voices—secure over $6.3 million in advances in a mere 4 years. These authors have successfully landed deals with “Big 5” publishers, won prestigious awards, and earned bestseller statuses everywhere from Amazon to The New York Times.
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Summary:
Ever felt the sting of being banned on Facebook for a harmless comment? Or less? You're not alone!
Navigating the world of social media can be tricky, especially when algorithms misinterpret our intentions.
These experiences can leave us feeling frustrated and disconnected, but there's more to the story.
Today, my guest, Sudi Karatas, joins us to dive deep into his repeated experiences of being thrown into 'Facebook jail'—often unjustly due to faulty algorithms
In episode #161 of The Author’s Corner, Sudi Karatas shares his personal experiences of being banned or restricted on Facebook, often referred to as being in "Facebook jail." He discusses the pitfalls of the platform's algorithm, which frequently misunderstands humor and expressions, leading to unfair punishments. Sudi's journey inspired him to write a book, compiling stories from others who've faced similar issues. The conversation dives into the challenges of relying solely on social media, emphasizing the importance of owning your own list.
Key takeaways:
- What it’s like to be in "Facebook jail" and why it’s more common than you think.
- How Facebook's algorithm misunderstands humor, leading to surprising consequences.
- The frustration of dealing with Facebook bans and the lack of human support.
- Why owning your own email list is more important than ever.
- The psychological toll of social media, especially during times of isolation.
- What you risk losing if you’re banned from Facebook.
- The potential dangers of the metaverse and what it could mean for your online investments.
- And more!
Resources mentioned in this episode:
- Sudi’s Book: Fork Social Media and the Algorithm it Rode in on (Jailbird Stories)by Sudi (Rick) Karatas
About Sudi (Rick) Karatas:
SUDI “RICK” KARATAS the author's latest book Fork Social Media and the Algorithm It Rode In On (Jailbird Stories) just released and follows his previous ones Rainbow Relatives: Real World Stories & Advice On How To Talk To Kids About LGBTQ Families & Friends and How Catering Sucked The Life Right Out Of Me the writer and producer of the film currently on Amazon Prime Walk a Mile in My Pradas. He also writes screenplays, and songs.
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Summary:
Did you know that only about 1% of book pitches actually land a deal?
Rejection is never easy, and in the competitive world of publishing, it's a common experience.
And if you've ever faced rejection from publishers and wondered what to do next, you'll want to listen to my latest Robin’s Riff.
In Episode #160 of The Author’s Corner, Robin Colucci shares practical steps to turn those setbacks into opportunities. You'll learn the importance of feedback, how to communicate effectively with your literary agent, and why patience and faith are essential in this journey.
Key takeaways:
- How to handle rejection in publishing without taking it personally
- How to view feedback from publishers
- The importance of making adjustments to your proposal
- The key to finding a publisher
- And much more!
About Robin Colucci:
Robin Colucci is the principal founder of World Changing Books. With over 3 decades of experience in journalism and the publishing industry, she is a multi-hyphenated professional—she's a guide, mentor, and strategist for thought leaders ready to see their expertise and ideas become a lasting legacy that changes the world.
Under Robin's expert guidance, World Changing Books has helped authors—from CEOs, astronauts, and Nobel laureates to emerging voices—secure over $6.3 million in advances in a mere 4 years. These authors have successfully landed deals with “Big 5” publishers, won prestigious awards, and earned bestseller statuses everywhere from Amazon to The New York Times.
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Summary:
Ever wondered how podcast PR can amplify your message?
It's a journey filled with strategy, connections, and the potential to reach millions of listeners!
Today, Michelle Glogovac, joins us to share her expertise and firsthand experiences in this dynamic field.
In episode #159 of The Author’s Corner, Michelle shares insights into the world of podcast PR, revealing how strategic pitching and thoughtful messaging can elevate your ability to get booked on podcasts and reach new audiences. Whether you're new to podcast guesting or looking to refine your overall PR strategy, Michelle's tips will inspire you to harness the full potential of guesting on other people’s podcasts!
Key takeaways:
- Why podcasting is still worth it despite the millions of podcasts available
- The importance of targeting a smaller, more engaged audiences
- How to be authentic without saying “authentic”
- The components of a branded media kit
- How to choose podcasts that align with your ideal audience
- Personalizing your podcast pitch
- Building relationships with podcast hosts
- And more!
Resources mentioned in this episode:
- How To Get On Podcastsby Michelle Glogovac (McGraw Hill, 2024)
- Michelle’s Podcast: My Simplified Life
- Canva
About Michelle Glogovac:
Michelle Glogovac is THE Podcast Matchmaker™, founder of The MLG Collective, a podcast PR agency, host of the My Simplified Life podcast, and author of How To Get On Podcasts(McGraw Hill, 2024). After 20 years in corporate aviation and two kids under two, Michelle felt the need to focus her career on something that made the world a better place. In 2018, she discovered podcasts and the power they have to share messages and stories of inspiration, education, and more with listeners.
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Episode #158: Robin’s Riff on “How Ugly Book Covers Hurt Credibility”
Summary:
Attention authors: Your book cover is not just a design—it's the first impression for your book. You know what they say about first impressions and second chances…
So, before you sign off on your next book cover, you'll want to tune into this new Robin's Riff, as Robin explains why it's important to get it right and offers some insider secrets on how to create one.
In Episode #158 of The Author’s Corner, Robin Colucci takes aim at a common stumbling block in publishing: the pitfalls of poorly designed book covers. The sad truth is that a poorly designed book cover not only makes your book less appealing to readers, it can undermine your credibility!
Key takeaways:
- How a poorly designed book cover can undermine the credibility of a book
- Why putting your picture on the front cover is not the best idea
- The importance of not using too much text or low-resolution images
- How to select a quality book cover designer
- And much more invaluable advice awaits!
About Robin Colucci:
Robin Colucci is the principal founder of World Changing Books. With over 3 decades of experience in journalism and the publishing industry, she is a multi-hyphenated professional—she's a guide, mentor, and strategist for thought leaders ready to see their expertise and ideas become a lasting legacy that changes the world.
Under Robin's expert guidance, World Changing Books has helped authors—from CEOs, astronauts, and Nobel laureates to emerging voices—secure over $6.3 million in advances in a mere 4 years. These authors have successfully landed deals with “Big 5” publishers, won prestigious awards, and earned bestseller statuses everywhere from Amazon to The New York Times.
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Summary:
Ever wondered how your sleep patterns affect your creativity and productivity?
Well, our guest today is just the person to shed light on this crucial link!
Whether you're burning the midnight oil to meet a deadline or struggling with writer's block, understanding the science behind sleep can transform your writing process, and improve your results across the board!
In episode #157 of The Author’s Corner, Dr. Anne Bartolucci shares insights into the correlation between perfectionism and insomnia, strategies for enhancing sleep quality, and overcoming self-sabotage and procrastination. Anne dives deep into her research, detailing the impact of perfectionism on sleep, practical strategies for overcoming insomnia, and her personal journey navigating the challenges of the sleep disorders field.
Key takeaways:
- The correlation between conscientiousness and insomnia
- How to spend your transition time before bed
- Using mindfulness practices to redirect the mind.
- Letting go of the need for approval and what to replace it with
- Sleep is deeply intertwined with daily thoughts and activities
- Using the BARTZ method (Basics, Avoidance, Redirecting, Time travel, Support) to overcome procrastination and increase productivity
- And more!
Resources mentioned in this episode:
- Better Sleep for the Overachiever by Anne Bartolucci, Ph.D., D.B.S.M (Dominic & Stanton 2020)
- Business Basics for Private Practice by by Anne Bartolucci, Ph.D., D.B.S.M (Routledge 2017)
- TEDxTalk by Vincent W. Li - DIY Health Revolution (How reading physical books stimulates melatonin in the brain)
- PsychUp Academy
About Anne Bartolucci:
Anne Bartolucci, Ph.D., D.B.S.M. is a licensed psychologist and a certified behavioral sleep medicine specialist. She started her professional career as the clinical director of a sleep disorders center and founded Atlanta Insomnia & Behavioral Health Services, P.C. in 2008 in order to focus specifically on behavioral treatment for sleep disorders. She is the author of two nonfiction books, most recently Better Sleep for the Overachiever (2020). Finally, she has a not-so-secret other life as a USA Today bestselling fiction steampunk and urban fantasy author under the pen name Cecilia Dominic.
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Summary:
In episode #153 of The Author’s Corner, Robin delved into the importance of a well-crafted book title and her secret formula for how to write one.
Today, we complete this “mini-series” on crafting a bestselling book title by diving deeper into the crucial role of the subtitle and how you need to write it to make readers want to buy!
In episode #156 of The Author’s Corner, Robin Colucci continues to explain the intricacies of crafting a best-selling book title, but this time, focuses specifically on the often-overlooked yet crucial element: the subtitle. Drawing from proven strategies and real-world examples, Robin reveals why a subtitle isn't just window dressing, but a powerful tool to communicate the unique benefits of your book and to help your ideal reader recognize that your book is the perfect solution for them!
Tune in as we break down the traits of successful subtitles and illustrate how they can amplify the main title's impact.
Key takeaways:
- How the main title and subtitle of a book work together
- The role of the subtitle of a book
- Why a good subtitle must be concise, clear, and targeted to a specific desire.
- The importance of subtitles having a clear benefit statement
- And more!
Resources mentioned in this episode:
- Unfear by Gaurav Patangar and Mark Manoukis
- The Choice Point by Joe Grover and Jonathan Rhodes
- Eat to Beat Disease by Dr. William Li
- How to Write a Book That Sells You by Robin Colucci
About Robin Colucci:
Robin Colucci is the principal founder of World Changing Books. With over 3 decades of experience in journalism and the publishing industry, she is a multi-hyphenated professional—she's a guide, mentor, and strategist for thought leaders ready to see their expertise and ideas become a lasting legacy that changes the world.
Under Robin's expert guidance, World Changing Books has helped authors—from CEOs, astronauts, and Nobel laureates to emerging voices—secure over $6.3 million in advances in a mere 4 years. These authors have successfully landed deals with “Big 5” publishers, won prestigious awards, and earned bestseller statuses everywhere from Amazon to The New York Times.
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Summary:
Ever wondered how top authors drive their book sales into the stratosphere?
According to this week’s guest, it's about strategically using a multi-pronged approach that helps you gain book sales while it raises your income.
Today, Chris Benetti, joins us to share his expertise in how to successfully market your book without breaking the bank, and other secrets behind his clients' phenomenal success.
In episode #155 of The Author’s Corner, Chris shares his proven strategies and practical tips on how to market books effectively, ensuring maximum reach and impact. Tune in to uncover Chris's marketing secrets and elevate your book sales game.
Key takeaways:
- Using ads compared to manual marketing efforts for promoting books
- How to correctly target demographics and address pain points in ad copy
- The benefit of selling books on your own platform
- Integrating affiliate marketing campaigns to help make book ads sustainable
- Navigating marketing strategies for traditional publishers and hybrid publishers
- Incorporating speaking gigs to sell books
- The importance of having back-end offers
- And more!
Resources mentioned in this episode:
- Chris Benetti’s Media Company: Smart Author® Media
- Chris Benetti’s Podcast: Smart Author
About Chris Benetti:
Chris Benetti owns Smart Author® Media and is an expert in book marketing. To date, Chris has helped his clients collectively generate over $20,000,000 in sales from their books & digital offers, and in 2023, Chris sold over 19,000 books for his clients.
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Summary:
If you're concerned about the recent reinvigoration of book bans, especially those with LGBTQ+ themes, you'll want to listen to our latest episode of The Author’s Corner.
With Pride Month just behind us, it's crucial to reflect on the significant increase in attempts to remove or restrict LGBTQ+ books, particularly in school libraries. This alarming trend isn't just a fight over books; it's a fight over stories that need to be told.
In this Robin’s Riff, I will discuss the censorship of LGBTQ+ authors, share some of the recent data on book bans, and discuss why it is important that those of us who are in the publishing industry take a stand against these censorship attempts.
Tune in now to understand why we must be vocal in our support for LGBTQ+ literature and resist censorship efforts.
Key takeaways:
- The attempts to ban books with LGBTQ+ themes
- The publishing industries role in this issue
- The Importance of LGBTQ+ Voices and Freedom of Expression
- Supporting Children's Exploration of LGBTQ+ Themes
- And more!
Resources:
- WSFB 3 News Segment for Pride Month 2024
About Robin Colucci:
Robin Colucci is the principal founder of World Changing Books. With over 3 decades of experience in journalism and the publishing industry, she is a multi-hyphenated professional—she's a guide, mentor, and strategist for thought leaders ready to see their expertise and ideas become a lasting legacy that changes the world.
Under Robin's expert guidance, World Changing Books has helped authors—from CEOs, astronauts, and Nobel laureates to emerging voices—secure over $6.3 million in advances in a mere 4 years. These authors have successfully landed deals with “Big 5” publishers, won prestigious awards, and earned bestseller statuses everywhere from Amazon to The New York Times.
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Summary:
You can’t judge a book by its cover, but a well-crafted book title can go a long way in taking someone from being a book browser to a book buyer.
But in this Robin’s Riff, I break down my secret formula for how to build a title that not only gains reader’s interest, but makes it easy for them to refer your book to others!
In Episode #153 of The Author’s Corner, Robin Colucci reveals the key traits shared by all of the bestselling books of all time, including present day and how you can incorporate these traits into a book title of your own. Be sure to check out this not-to-be-missed episode and let us know what you learned that you’ll use when you title your next book.
Key takeaways:
- The traits of a bestselling book title
- The importance of the length of your title
- How to create a memorable title
- Using popular references to craft a great book title
- And more!
About Robin Colucci:
Robin Colucci is the principal founder of World Changing Books. With over 3 decades of experience in journalism and the publishing industry, she is a multi-hyphenated professional—she's a guide, mentor, and strategist for thought leaders ready to see their expertise and ideas become a lasting legacy that changes the world.
Under Robin's expert guidance, World Changing Books has helped authors—from CEOs, astronauts, and Nobel laureates to emerging voices—secure over $6.3 million in advances in a mere 4 years. These authors have successfully landed deals with “Big 5” publishers, won prestigious awards, and earned bestseller statuses everywhere from Amazon to The New York Times.
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Summary:
Getting your book published can be a daunting journey, filled with unexpected twists and turns.
From developing a concept to facing setbacks, not every author's journey is straightforward.
But what happens when the ghostwriting firm you hired ghosts you?!
In episode #152 of The Author’s Corner, Matt Lesser shares his experience with publishing his second book after a disappointing encounter with his first. He details his frustrations, financial losses, and his journey to regroup and find a new publisher. And he also delves into his experience navigating the Scribe shutdown scandal that you won’t want to miss!
Key takeaways:
- The importance of choosing the right publisher
- Identifying red flags and concerns with publishes
- How to regroup and find a new publisher after a negative experience.
- Selling books through speaking engagements and targeted marketing can be effective strategies. Writing a book can serve as an investment in a consulting business and a tool for building relationships.
- Choosing unique and intriguing titles can generate curiosity and differentiate from common terms.
- The books 'Unsatisfied' and 'Unengaged' address the importance of intentionally pursuing a life of less and building a healthy organizational culture.
- Understanding the use of practical application in books
- And more!
Resources:
- Matt Lesser’s Books:
- UnSatisfied: When Less Is More
- unEngaged: Building Flourishing Organizations
- Scribe Media Closure Medium Article
About Matt Lesser:
Matt Lesser started his career leading his family’s struggling business. It quickly failed, and Matt experienced a suicidal depression. Out of the ashes, a new business emerged and grew from three people to nearly two hundred while experiencing a twenty-fold increase in revenue, before selling to trusted competitors. Matt then served in a C-Suite role in private equity for 12 years, before serving transitional C-Suite roles in banking and commercial uniforms. Matt founded Uniquely Normal, LLC in 2021 to equip leaders to solve their costly people-related challenges by building flourishing organizations on the pillars of Empathy, Empowerment, and Excellence, which is the focus of Matt’s second book, unEngaged: Building Flourishing Organizations. Matt is the best-selling author of unSatisfied: When Less is More and has served as a keynote speaker as well as a facilitator of rooms packed with leaders around the world for more than twenty years now. In addition, Matt is a certified executive coach as well as certified in nearly twenty personality, preference, and leadership assessments. Matt married his elementary school sweetheart in 1996 and lives in northeast Indiana with his family.
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Summary:
A common misconception among aspiring authors is that their years of expertise are enough to secure a book deal.
While expertise is needed, it is not the sole criterion for impressing agents and traditional publishers.
In Episode #151 of The Author’s Corner, Robin Colucci discusses why expertise alone is not enough to secure a traditional book deal and points out the key players in the decision-making process: literary agents and traditional publishers. Listen in to unravel the intricacies of securing a traditional book deal beyond mere expertise as we navigate the essential role of uniqueness, platform, and audience engagement in the publishing landscape.
Key takeaways:
- Why expertise alone is not enough to secure a traditional book deal
- The importance of providing proof to agents and publishers
- The main goal of a book proposal
- Developing a strong platform
- Demonstrating sales capability
- And more!
About Robin Colucci:
Robin Colucci is the principal founder of World Changing Books. With over 3 decades of experience in journalism and the publishing industry, she is a multi-hyphenated professional—she's a guide, mentor, and strategist for thought leaders ready to see their expertise and ideas become a lasting legacy that changes the world.
Under Robin's expert guidance, World Changing Books has helped authors—from CEOs, astronauts, and Nobel laureates to emerging voices—secure over $6.3 million in advances in a mere 4 years. These authors have successfully landed deals with “Big 5” publishers, won prestigious awards, and earned bestseller statuses everywhere from Amazon to The New York Times.
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Summary:
Resilience is constantly thought of as something you inherently have.
But resilience isn't just a trait; it's a skillset, and a transformative journey.
In episode #150 of The Author’s Corner, Dr. Marie-Hélène Pelletier shares her insights and valuable advice on how to think about resilience, the intricacies of resilience, and its profound impact resilience has on overall health and performance.
Key takeaways:
- The role of resilience in navigating adversity
- Defining resilience as an intentional investment not a fixed trait
- Recognizing burnout early in order to maintain resilience.
- The importance of seeking support to prevent burnout.
- How gamification and fun can enhance resilience building.
- And more!
Resources:
- Dr. Marie-Hélène Pelletier’s Book: The Resilience Plan: A Strategic Approach to Optimizing Your Work Performance and Mental Health
- The Weight Watchers App
- The Peloton App
- The definition of burn-out by the World Health Organization
About Dr. Marie-Hélène Pelletier:
Dr. Marie-Hélène Pelletier is an expert in business management and psychology, specializing in leadership resilience and workplace health. With over 20 years of experience, she holds a Ph.D. and an MBA from the University of British Columbia. Dr. Pelletier is bilingual and actively contributes to global mental health initiatives. She's also an accomplished author, with her newly released book, The Resilience Plan: A Strategic Approach to Optimizing Your Work Performance and Mental Health.
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Summary:
Is sharing your book content before it's published a good idea?
It's a question that many aspiring authors grapple with, and today, I'm here to offer some clarity on the matter.
In Episode #149 of The Author’s Corner, Robin Colucci dives into the debate surrounding whether authors should reveal their book's content before its official release. Tune in as Robin addresses common concerns and myths surrounding this practice, and provides insights into why it can actually be beneficial for authors to share their content early on.
Key takeaways:
- Why sharing your book content increases its marketability.
- How sharing your book content can attract potential readers
- Building anticipation for your book
- And more!
About Robin Colucci:
Robin Colucci is the principal founder of World Changing Books. With over 3 decades of experience in journalism and the publishing industry, she is a multi-hyphenated professional—she's a guide, mentor, and strategist for thought leaders ready to see their expertise and ideas become a lasting legacy that changes the world.
Under Robin's expert guidance, World Changing Books has helped authors—from CEOs, astronauts, and Nobel laureates to emerging voices—secure over $6.3 million in advances in a mere 4 years. These authors have successfully landed deals with “Big 5” publishers, won prestigious awards, and earned bestseller statuses everywhere from Amazon to The New York Times.
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Summary:
Ever wondered about the intricate process of building a successful author business?
It's a journey filled with innovation, strategy, and plenty of hard work!
In episode #148 of The Author’s Corner, Sharon Woodhouse shares her insights and valuable advice on how to build a successful author business and provides practical tips and strategies for aspiring authors to navigate the complexities of the publishing industry.
Key takeaways:
- Taking an entrepreneurial approach to publishing
- Customizing your marketing strategies
- Understanding the needs of your readers to create a successful author plan.
- The importance of consistency marketing efforts
- Defining your own version of author success
- Leveraging your book to grow your business
- And more!
About Sharon Woodhouse:
Sharon Woodhouse owned and ran an indie book publishing company for over 25 years. She currently owns Conspire Creative, a book business agency which provides coaching, consulting, and project management services for authors and small publishers, specializing in entrepreneurship, options, and customized approaches. She writes about creating holistic, sustainable, income-generating author businesses you love on Substack and Medium.
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Summary:
Ever wondered what the first major step is if your goal is to sell your book to a traditional publisher?
The answer is getting a literary agent to represent you.
But the big question is how?
In Episode #147 of The Author’s Corner, Robin Colucci breaks down the essential first step in selling your book to a traditional publisher: securing a literary agent. Tune in as Robin shares invaluable insights into the do’s and don’ts of pitching literary agents. Learn why preparation is the biggest key to success in this pivotal process.
Key takeaways:
- What to do before reaching out to literary agents
- The five essential elements for attracting a literary agent
- Respecting agents and their time
- And much more invaluable advice awaits!
About Robin Colucci:
Robin Colucci is the principal founder of World Changing Books. With over 3 decades of experience in journalism and the publishing industry, she is a multi-hyphenated professional—she's a guide, mentor, and strategist for thought leaders ready to see their expertise and ideas become a lasting legacy that changes the world.
Under Robin's expert guidance, World Changing Books has helped authors—from CEOs, astronauts, and Nobel laureates to emerging voices—secure over $6.3 million in advances in a mere 4 years. These authors have successfully landed deals with “Big 5” publishers, won prestigious awards, and earned bestseller statuses everywhere from Amazon to The New York Times.
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Summary:
Ever pondered the dynamics of co-authoring a book?
It’s a journey filled with twists and turns, and today, my guests, Brianna and Matthew Penfold, join us to offer firsthand insights into the complexities of this experience.
In episode #146 of The Author’s Corner, Brianna and Matthew share their insights on co-authorship and how they navigate the challenges that arise during such an intense collaborative process. Tune in to discover the secrets behind their successful collaboration and gain valuable insights from their co-authorship journey.
Key takeaways:
- Unlocking the dynamics of co-authoring
- Discovering the rhythm of collaboration
- Amplifying synergy amidst creative disparities
- Embracing wins and losses as a team
- Navigating the labyrinth of publishing
- Embracing the journey of literary partnership
- Crafting a narrative that transcends generations
- And more!
Resources mentioned in this episode:
- The Intrepid Three: Animus Revealed byBrianna and Matthew Penfold
About Melo Calarco:
Brianna and Matthew Penfold are a wife-and-husband writing team. The Intrepid Three: Animus Revealed is their debut book. This work is a labor of love enlightened by their lifelong faith journeys and diverse experiences in medicine, law, victim advocacy, crisis intervention, research, and children and youth mentorship. By day, and sometimes by night, Brianna is an attorney, and Matthew is a pediatrician. They currently reside in Virginia where they are having a blast raising their energetic toddler.
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Summary:
"Your story is so incredible! You should write a memoir!"
However, when individuals approach Robin Colucci seeking guidance on writing a memoir, she typically steers them in a different direction.
Find out why in episode #143 of The Author’s Corner where Robin explains why she generally advises against memoir writing. However, if you've been considering it, she also shares how you can use your story to craft a book that offers genuine value to your readers while showcasing your best tales.
Key takeaways:
- Why traditional publishing can be tough for memoirs
- An alternative approach is to position your personal experiences
- The importance of understanding your audience
- The untapped potential of niche genres
- And more!
About Robin Colucci:
Robin Colucci is the principal founder of World Changing Books. With over 3 decades of experience in journalism and the publishing industry, she is a multi-hyphenated professional—she's a guide, mentor, and strategist for thought leaders ready to see their expertise and ideas become a lasting legacy that changes the world.
Under Robin's expert guidance, World Changing Books has helped authors—from CEOs, astronauts, and Nobel laureates to emerging voices—secure over $6.3 million in advances in a mere 4 years. These authors have successfully landed deals with “Big 5” publishers, won prestigious awards, and earned bestseller statuses everywhere from Amazon to The New York Times.
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Summary:
I'm willing to bet you’ve experienced the chaos of juggling work, family, and personal time. I know I have (and often still do), and it can feel like a never-ending circus!
But we all have a breaking point where no matter how much we want to keep up the juggling act, we just can’t do it anymore. It’s called burnout. And it affects millions of people every day.
In episode #144 of The Author’s Corner, Robin delves into the essential discussion on avoiding burnout and finding balance in work and life with Melo Calarco. Join us for this enlightening conversation and discover some of the tools that can help you thrive in both your personal and professional life.
Key takeaways:
- How to recognizing the signs of burnout
- The importance of self-awareness and self-care practices
- Utilizing boundaries to manage stressors
- Understanding your personal strengths and energy allocation
- The residual effects of COVID-19 on mental health
- Rebuilding resilience and refilling one's cup
- And more!
Resources mentioned in this episode:
- Beating Burnout-Finding Balance: Mindful Lessons for a Meaningful Life by Melo Calarco
- The Kolbe Index (Instinct Test)
About Melo Calarco:
Melo Calarco, award-winning author of Beating Burnout-Finding Balance: Mindful Lessons for a Meaningful Life(Wiley), is a mindfulness and high-performance coach, keynote speaker and corporate programs facilitator. His work has helped many CEO’s, leaders, corporate executives, medical professionals, elite athletes and other high achievers to perform at their absolute best, without burning out. Personally, Melo has trekked and cycled around the world on his mountain bike over 30,000kms across five continents where he learnt to manage highly challenging and stressful situations, build resilience and mental endurance. He shares this experience in his professional workshops and seminars, which have been described as truly transformational!
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Summary:
Since March is Women's History Month, we decided to take some time to celebrate the remarkable contributions of women through books.
Throughout this month, we've posted to social media a series of videos highlighting remarkable female authors whose books have changed the world.
Now, we're excited to bring you a compilation of these insightful videos, along with some exclusive content that didn't make it to the public postings.
In episode #143 of The Author’s Corner, Robin delves into the timeless wisdom and enduring legacy of nine remarkable female authors who have reshaped our world through the power of their written words. From Mary Wollstonecraft's groundbreaking advocacy for women's rights to Maya Angelou's resilient portrayal of overcoming adversity, each author's journey holds the promise of profound insights and inspiration!
Key takeaways:
- Recognizing the enduring legacy of women authors and their profound impact on literature and society
- Exploring how food culture has influenced the world
- Examining the transformation of gender roles reflected in these books
- Emphasizing the importance of seizing the moment when you have a book idea
- And more!
Resources mentioned in this episode:
- 100 Books that Changed the Worldby Scott Christianson and Colin Salter
- A Vindication of the Rights of Women by Mary Wollstonecraft
- Frankenstein by Mary Shelley
- Their Eyes Were Watching God by Zora Neale Hurston
- The Second Sex by Simone de Beauvoir
- A Book of Mediterranean Food by Elizabeth David
- To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee
- Silent Spring by Rachel Carson
- The Feminine Mystique by Betty Friedan
- I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings by Maya Angelou
About Robin Colucci:
Robin Colucci is the principal founder of World Changing Books. With over 3 decades of experience in journalism and the publishing industry, she is a multi-hyphenated professional—she's a guide, mentor, and strategist for thought leaders ready to see their expertise and ideas become a lasting legacy that changes the world.
Under Robin's expert guidance, World Changing Books has helped authors—from CEOs, astronauts, and Nobel laureates to emerging voices—secure over $6.3 million in advances in a mere 4 years. These authors have successfully landed deals with “Big 5” publishers, won prestigious awards, and earned bestseller statuses everywhere from Amazon to The New York Times.
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Summary:
Being a perennial bestselling author almost seems like an urban legend. We’ve all seen books with that kind of staying power, but few authors have that experience.
If you’re wondering what it takes to write a book that sells thousands of copies, not just for weeks, but for decades, then this is the episode for you!
In episode #142 of The Author’s Corner, Robin is joined by perennial bestseller, HeatherAsh Amara, to tell you not only that it can be done, but she also shares insights into how she did it, so you can too.
Key takeaways:
- The inspiration behind her first book
- How her personal life influenced her writing
- The creative strategies she used to put her book in front of her audience
- Her strategy to create intimacy with the reader
- Insight into the crone archetype
- HeatherAsh’s favorite lessons in her book
- How to practice open heartedness
- How we can “align with life”
- HeatherAsh’s advice to authors
- And more!
Resources mentioned in this episode:
- HeatherAsh’s bestseller, Warrior Goddess Training: Become the Woman You Are Meant to Be
- HeatherAsh’s upcoming book, Wild, Winning, and Wise(out July 30, 2024)
About HeatherAsh Amara:
HeatherAsh Amara is the author of nine books, including the bestselling Warrior Goddess Training, The Seven Secrets of Happy and Healthy Relationships with don Miguel Ruiz Jr., and the upcoming book Wild, Willing, and Wise. She skillfully and unconditionally guides people to shift from self-judgment to discernment, victimhood to authentic vulnerability, and to shed limiting domestication so they can ground into their self-intimacy, steadiness, and stillness. Raised in Southeast Asia, HeatherAsh has traveled the world from childhood and is continually inspired by the diversity and beauty of human expression and experience. She brings this open-hearted, inclusive worldview to her writings and teachings.
Summary:
For some reason, people have long lauded large social media followings as indicative of who will sell the most books. But the numbers speak for themselves: celebrities with HUGE social media followings consistently underperform in book sales.
Why does everyone think that social media following = book sales?
In episode #141 of The Author’s Corner, Robin reveals her theory about why this belief is so common, even among publishing house editors and staff. She also discusses how authors can still sell thousands of books and make multiple bestseller lists, without millions of followers.
Key takeaways:
- What we can learn from Britney Spears’and Billie Eilish’s memoirs
- A theory on why social media followings are considered indicative of book sales (and why it's not true!)
- The power of consistency
- And more!
Resources:
- Billie Eilish’s memoir, Billie Eilish
- Britney Spears’ memoir, The Woman in Me
- Justin Timberlake’s memoir, Hindsight: & All the Things I Can't See in Front of Me
- Tamika Mallory’s book, State of Emergency: How We Win in the Country We Built
- Episode 8 of The Author’s Corner, featuring Jonathan Jacobs
- Rachel Hollis’ Girl Stop Apologizing
- Jen Sincero’s You Are a Badass: How to Stop Doubting Your Greatness and Start Living an Awesome Life
- Jack Canfield’s Chicken Soup for the Soul
- Robert Kiyosaki’s Rich Dad, Poor Dad
About Robin Colucci:
Robin Colucci is the principal founder of World Changing Books. With over 3 decades of experience in journalism and the publishing industry, she is a multi-hyphenated professional—she's a guide, mentor, and strategist for thought leaders ready to see their expertise and ideas become a lasting legacy that changes the world.
Under Robin's expert guidance, World Changing Books has helped authors—from CEOs, astronauts, and Nobel laureates to emerging voices—secure over $6.3 million in advances in a mere 4 years. These authors have successfully landed deals with “Big 5” publishers, won prestigious awards, and earned bestseller statuses everywhere from Amazon to The New York Times.
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Summary:
Why is it that some messages connect, and others don’t? The answer is simple.
I mean, the answer is simple, or rather, simplicity. But simple doesn’t mean it’s easy to do.
In episode #140 of The Author’s Corner, Robin is joined by marketing expert Ben Guttmann, to share some of his best design principles that enable us to communicate clearly and simply with our readers.
Key takeaways:
- The simple difference between successful and unsuccessful marketing messages
- What it means to be “simple”
- How empathy and simplicity work together
- The idea of an “enlightened idiot”
- What we can learn from Taylor Swift
- Being nice versus being kind
- How to connect with the root of what people want
- What we can learn from Godzilla
- And more!
Resources mentioned in this episode:
- Ben’s book, Simply Put: Why Clear Messages Win — and How to Design Them
About Ben Guttmann:
Ben Guttmann is a marketing and communications expert and author of Simply Put: Why Clear Messages Win — and How to Design Them. He’s an experienced marketing executive and educator on a mission to get leaders to more effectively connect by simplifying their message. Ben is former co-founder and managing partner at Digital Natives Group, an award-winning agency that worked with the NFL, I Love NY, Comcast NBCUniversal, Hachette Book Group, The Nature Conservancy, and other major clients. Currently, Ben teaches digital marketing at Baruch College in New York City and consults with a range of thought leaders, venture-backed startups, and other brands.
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Have you ever picked up a book at 10pm and been so enthralled, the next thing you know, it’s 3am, and you’re approaching the last few pages?
If you have experienced this, then you know the exhilarating feeling of being totally in the author’s thrall and how rare it is to connect so deeply with a book that you simply cannot put it down. Never mind how you feel the next day. Any author who kept you up all night reading deserves to have you make that early morning walk of shame to the coffee maker.
But if you’re an author, or planning to be, what you really want is to have your reader pull an all-nighter for YOU.
In episode #139 of The Author’s Corner, Robin reveals a simple-but-not-necessarily-easy four step process to keep your reader hooked.
Key takeaways:
- The rare experience of never wanting to put a book down
- Why connecting with your reader is so important
- The science behind connecting through a book
- Four tips to develop a strong connection with your reader
- The role of empathy and vulnerability
- And more!
About Robin Colucci:
Robin Colucci is the principal founder of World Changing Books. With over 3 decades of experience in journalism and the publishing industry, she is a multi-hyphenated professional—she's a guide, mentor, and strategist for thought leaders ready to see their expertise and ideas become a lasting legacy that changes the world.
Under Robin's expert guidance, World Changing Books has helped authors—from CEOs, astronauts, and Nobel laureates to emerging voices—secure over $6.3 million in advances in a mere 4 years. These authors have successfully landed deals with “Big 5” publishers, won prestigious awards, and earned bestseller statuses everywhere from Amazon to The New York Times.
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30 years ago, Death of a Salesman and The Crucible seemed to be two of the few plays from American literature that had made it to the top of every highschool’s “must read” list.
In an era of an ever-widening wealth gap and a pervasive, savage bigotry fueled by ignorance and Trump—Miller’s two seminal works may be more relevant than ever. Yet, how many students in the Class of 2024 recognize his work, much less his name?
In episode #138 of The Author’s Corner, Robin is joined by master carpenter Marc Olivieri, who is doing his part to ensure that we remember the life and legacy of Arthur Miller. In this episode, Marc shares fascinating stories about Arthur Miller, whom Marc knew personally for many years before Miller’s death in 2005. He tells us about the Arthur Miller Writing Studio preservation project and why it is so important that we preserve the landmark, and others like it. And he shares how you, listener, can help support their endeavor!
Key takeaways:
- The exciting story of how Marc met Aruthur Miller
- Marc’s journey in preserving the Arthur Miller Writing Studio
- The importance of preserving historical monuments
- The influence of artists in our society
- The relevance of Arthur Miller’s work
- How to engage the community to support preservation projects
- Fascinating peeks into Arthur Miller’s life
- And more!
Resources mentioned in this episode:
- The event held at the Arthur Miller Writing Studio: Guilty Until Proven Innocent: False Confession and Wrongful Conviction
- The Arthur Miller Writing Studio project
- Link to donate to the Arthur Miller Writing Studio project
- UT Austin archives of Arthur Miller
- Some of Arthur Miller’s most notable works:
- The Crucible
- Death of a Salesman
About Marc Olivieri:
Marc Olivieri is a master carpenter, mason, builder, construction manager, and has been responsible for major historic, residential, archeological, and industrial restoration projects in Germany, Italy, and the United States. A long time Roxbury resident and member of the board of directors at the Roxbury Land Trust, he is construction manager in Connecticut for the Calder Foundation. Marc’s relationship with the Arthur Miller Writing Studio dates from 1981.
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A lot of first-time authors get the same conventional advice: “Just start writing!”
While doing something is usually better than doing nothing, “Just start writing” too often ends up meaning, “Waste a lot of time grasping at straws and keep trying to guess what your book is really about.”
The good news is, if you want to position your book like a pro, and get the maximum value and ROI out of your book, there are two key questions that you’re better off asking (and answering) before you begin to write, so that you can stop wasting precious time, and get started writing an impactful book that helps you reach your most ambitious goals.
In episode #137 of The Author’s Corner, Robin reveals the two questions that every author needs to answer if they want to position themselves as an expert. Plus, once you answer these questions, you will come out on the other side even more confident about the value your book will provide for your reader!
Key takeaways:
- Why “just jumping in” isn’t a good strategy
- Why you can’t write a book for everyone
- The question you need to ask yourself to discover your unique, saleable concept
- How the comparable books exercise can help you pinpoint your selling point
- And more!
About Robin Colucci:
Robin Colucci is the principal founder of World Changing Books. With over 3 decades of experience in journalism and the publishing industry, she is a multi-hyphenated professional—she's a guide, mentor, and strategist for thought leaders ready to see their expertise and ideas become a lasting legacy that changes the world.
Under Robin's expert guidance, World Changing Books has helped authors—from CEOs, astronauts, and Nobel laureates to emerging voices—secure over $6.3 million in advances in a mere 4 years. These authors have successfully landed deals with “Big 5” publishers, won prestigious awards, and earned bestseller statuses everywhere from Amazon to The New York Times.
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How do we become who we are? Is there something written into our genetic code that determines who we will be and what decisions we will make? Or are we ruled by our environment and circumstances? Do we really possess free will, or is it an illusion?
If you’ve ever pondered these existential questions, then you’re going to want to tune in to episode #136 of The Author’s Corner. Robin is joined by world renowned brain scientist George Paxinos who has devoted his life’s work to investigating these questions. They discuss the idea of free will, human exceptionalism, genetics, and the environment, and how they all come together to form who we are today.
Key takeaways:
- The role that innovation plays in our brain chemistry
- Using animal models to understand human brains
- The importance of understanding who we are
- The double edged sword of human exceptionalism and hubris
- Does free will really exist?
- And more!
Resources mentioned in this episode:
- George’s novel, A River Divided
- Immanuel Kant’s ethical commandant “know thyself”
- The Story of Sisyphus
About George Paxinos:
George Paxinos studied at Berkeley, McGill and Yale and is Professor of Medical Sciences at Neuroscience Research Australia and The University of New South Wales, Sydney. He was President of the Australian Neuroscience Society and the World Congress of Neuroscience. He has identified and named more brain areas than anyone in history and published 57 books—his first, The Rat Brain in Stereotaxic Coordinates, is the most cited publication in neuroscience and, for decades, the third most cited science book of all time. His Atlas of the Human Brain received awards from the Association of American Publishers and the British Medical Association. His atlases and concepts of brain organization are used by most scientists working on the relationship between the brain and cognition, emotion, motivation and thought, including neurologic or psychiatric diseases such as Alzheimer’s and depression. His most recent book, A River Divided, is a novel that combines his activist and scientific background.
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Have you ever noticed that it seems like these days everyone is a “#1 bestselling author?” If so, you’ve probably also wondered how this can be true. If it seems suspicious to you, you’re right!
Truth is, you can gain “bestseller status” without actually selling books. This is true because there are numerous ways to “game the system” and virtually every bestseller list is “gamable.” The unfortunate outcome is that bestseller status does not hold the gravitas it once did.
The good news is bestseller status is only one component of a successful book, and you don’t need to put energy and money into manufacturing phony bestseller status to knock it out of the park…
In episode #135 of The Author’s Corner, Robin reveals the truth behind the bestseller status that so many authors claim. She also discusses some of the ways people game the system, and shares some ideas about what author success looks like.
Key takeaways:
- Why everyone seems to be a bestseller these days
- How Amazon changed the bestseller game
- The average number of books you have to sell to make a bestseller list
- Why bestseller status doesn’t mean as much anymore
- Strategies that some people use to game the system
- How to determine if bestseller status is really important for you
- And more!
Resources mentioned in this episode:
- New York Times Best Sellers list
- USA TODAY’s Best-selling Booklist
About Robin Colucci:
Robin Colucci is the principal founder of World Changing Books. With over 3 decades of experience in journalism and the publishing industry, she is a multi-hyphenated professional—she's a guide, mentor, and strategist for thought leaders ready to see their expertise and ideas become a lasting legacy that changes the world.
Under Robin's expert guidance, World Changing Books has helped authors—from CEOs, astronauts, and Nobel laureates to emerging voices—secure over $6.3 million in advances in a mere 4 years. These authors have successfully landed deals with “Big 5” publishers, won prestigious awards, and earned bestseller statuses everywhere from Amazon to The New York Times.
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As writers, we all know the importance of storytelling. But it may not be as obvious that the art of storytelling is essential to entrepreneurs and their businesses too.
Stories are particularly important when it comes to marketing. They help you communicate your purpose and connect with your audience on a deeper level. A stronger connection through storytelling can help you attract ideal clients and grow your business.
In episode #134 of The Author’s Corner, Robin is joined by Lynne Goldoner, writing coach, marketing expert, and author of over six books. Lynne shares the most important stories that every entrepreneur needs in their arsenal. And she discusses her process of author branding and messaging.
Key takeaways:
- Using stories to understand the world
- The important principle to show, not tell
- Why storytelling is essential to entrepreneurship
- Why showing people you care is key
- The stories every entrepreneur needs to tell
- Author branding and marketing tips
- And more!
Resources mentioned in this episode:
- Lynne’s book on Jewish women’s hair coverings, Hide & Seek: Jewish Women and Hair Covering
- Lynne’s monthly free writealongs
About Lynne Golodner:
Lynne Golodner is a writing coach, marketing entrepreneur, and host of the Make Meaning Podcast, and her creative nonfiction has been published around the world. Lynne also writes emotional novels with compelling Jewish characters who are determined to fill their lives with passion, purpose and love. Her first novel, Woman of Valor, joins a body of work that includes two poetry collections and six nonfiction books, including Hide and Seek: Jewish Women and Hair Covering and The Flavors of Faith: Holy Breads. With a BA from University of Michigan and an MFA from Goddard College, Lynne is the mother of four and lives in Huntington Woods, Michigan, with her husband, Dan.
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We’ve talked about the most common misconceptions about book sales on The Author’s Corner, but what about what strategies actually do sell books?
In episode #133 of The Author’s Corner, Robin discloses the 4 strategies that cause book sales that authors use to sell thousands of books.
This episode is a goldmine for both seasoned authors and those just starting out, offering practical insights into optimizing these strategies for maximum impact.
Key takeaways:
- The 4 strategies that are proven to sell books
- When author’s should implement each strategy
- Which strategy is a good fit for you
- And more!
Resources mentioned in this episode:
- Matt McWilliams, The Affiliate Guy
About Robin Colucci:
Robin Colucci is the principal founder of World Changing Books. With over 3 decades of experience in journalism and the publishing industry, she is a multi-hyphenated professional—she's a guide, mentor, and strategist for thought leaders ready to see their expertise and ideas become a lasting legacy that changes the world.
Under Robin's expert guidance, World Changing Books has helped authors—from CEOs, astronauts, and Nobel laureates to emerging voices—secure over $6.3 million in advances in a mere 4 years. These authors have successfully landed deals with “Big 5” publishers, won prestigious awards, and earned bestseller statuses everywhere from Amazon to The New York Times.
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Many first-time authors wonder about trademarking their book title.
Actually, it’s not allowed, but there are some creative ways you might still be able to trademark the title of your book.
In episode #132 of The Author’s Corner, Robin is joined by Joey Vitale, an attorney and business growth consultant. He shares his insightful loopholes so that authors and business owners can protect their intellectual property. Joey pulls back the curtain on all things trademark, and how authors can use them to their advantage.
Key takeaways:
- How do you call dibs on the title of your book so that no one else can use it?
- Copyrights vs. trademarks
- Loopholes to protect your intellectual property
- The three main trademark mistakes business owners/authors make
- Why waiting to file is not a strategy
- And more!
Resources mentioned in this episode:
- Chicken Soup for the Soul
- Mike Michalowicz’s Profit First
- Free government database to check for trademarks
- Robert Kiyosaki’s Rich Dad, Poor Dad
- Alexandra Watkins’ Hello My Name is Awesome
- Joey’s free legal bundle
About Joey Vitale:
Joey Vitale is an internationally renowned speaker, award-winning attorney, and business growth consultant. He has spoken to tens of thousands of people across the world. Joey has worked with influential brands like Cultivate Advisors, Honeybook, Maximum Lawyer, and The Futur.
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As we enter the New Year, lots of people are thinking about starting a new business, or pivoting in a new direction. It’s a great time to rethink your goals and where you want to grow in 2024.
You might be thinking about writing a book to help you establish your new business in 2024. A book can be a great tool to boost a business, or even grow in a new direction, but it is NOT the best way to start a business from scratch.
In episode #131 of The Author’s Corner, Robin returns for another Robin’s Riff on why writing a book is not a business in and of itself, and why it’s better to write from a deep well of on-the-ground experience.
Key takeaways:
- Why being an author is not a business plan
- The power of writing a book from the right position
- How you can use your book as a primer to explain your value proposition to clients
- And more!
About Robin Colucci:
Robin Colucci is the principal founder of World Changing Books. With over 3 decades of experience in journalism and the publishing industry, she is a multi-hyphenated professional—she's a guide, mentor, and strategist for thought leaders ready to see their expertise and ideas become a lasting legacy that changes the world.
Under Robin's expert guidance, World Changing Books has helped authors—from CEOs, astronauts, and Nobel laureates to emerging voices—secure over $6.3 million in advances in a mere 4 years. These authors have successfully landed deals with “Big 5” publishers, won prestigious awards, and earned bestseller statuses everywhere from Amazon to The New York Times.
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One common question that authors have is: “I have a self-published book, but can I sell it to a traditional publisher?”
The short answer is: Yes. But only if your book is killing it in sales.
Unfortunately, most self-published authors who wonder about selling to a traditional publisher are struggling with sales and hope that getting picked up by a publisher will be the answer to all their woes.
In episode #130 of The Author’s Corner, Robin reveals why publishers aren’t interested in buying the rights to most self-published books— and what you can do to increase your chances.
Key takeaways:
- The truth behind why publishers buy books from self-published authors
- Why selling your book to a publisher won’t solve your problems with sales
- How you can position yourself to sell to a traditional publisher
- The magic number for book sales that most publishers want to see
- How book sales are tracked and why it matters
- And more!
Resources:
- The story of Amanda Hocking
About Robin Colucci:
Robin Colucci is the principal founder of World Changing Books. With over 3 decades of experience in journalism and the publishing industry, she is a multi-hyphenated professional—she's a guide, mentor, and strategist for thought leaders ready to see their expertise and ideas become a lasting legacy that changes the world.
Under Robin's expert guidance, World Changing Books has helped authors—from CEOs, astronauts, and Nobel laureates to emerging voices—secure over $6.3 million in advances in a mere 4 years. These authors have successfully landed deals with “Big 5” publishers, won prestigious awards, and earned bestseller statuses everywhere from Amazon to The New York Times.
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Summary:
Many people find email marketing a little…well, tedious. A full inbox can be overwhelming, so how do you avoid spamming your community’s inbox, while also ensuring they receive all the value you have to offer?
Email marketing is one of the most overlooked channels to connect with an audience. And yet, if you’re an author, that connection can be priceless.
In episode #129 of The Author’s Corner, Robin is joined by Matt Treacey, an expert email marketing consultant. Matt shares why email has been so overlooked, and how it can be a gold mine for authors and business owners alike. Matt also explains how his unique approach using ecology can help demystify the world of email marketing to help you take advantage of all it has to offer.
Key takeaways:
- Why email marketing is so overlooked, and yet has so much potential
- Similarities between email marketing and ecology
- The most common mistakes people make with email marketing
- The three best ways to measure engagement
- What email marketing and the hero’s journey have in common
- Why tactics change, but the principles don’t
- And more!
Resources mentioned in this episode:
- Matt’s book, Natural Orders: Email Marketing Automation Strategy for Small Online Businesses
- Eugene Schwartz’s Breakthrough Advertising
- Robert Collier’s quote, “Always enter the conversation already taking place in the customer’s mind.”
- Robert Anton Wilson’s concept of reality tunnels
- Kurt Vonnegut on the shapes of stories
- Andrew Chen’s Law of Shitty Clickthroughs
About Matt Treacey:
Matt Treacey is the go-to email marketing consultant for some of the world's top business authors. With praise from industry leaders such as Nir Eyal, Perry Marshall, and Michael Bungay Stanier, Matt combines a track record in email marketing with an academic background in ecological science. Taken together, Matt knows what it takes to build systems designed for growth. In his best-selling book Natural Orders: Email Marketing Automation Strategy for Small Online Businesses, he describes how to develop a healthy, engaged, and profitable email marketing database, mimicking the timeless growth strategies used by the most successful systems of the natural world. Engaging, thought-provoking, and philosophical, Matt’s writing and speaking inspires his audiences to think differently, and to consider the multi-disciplinary approaches that will help them take their businesses to the next level.
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A book can be a great tool to grow your business. But one of the most common misconceptions when it comes to writing a book to get clients is that your book is not just a big business card or an extra long sales letter.
The book should be about your reader (a.k.a your ideal client), and demonstrate, not tell, how you and your business can add value to their lives. If you do this right, your ideal client prospects will come into the sales conversation already set to hire you.
In episode #128 of The Author’s Corner, Robin explains what a book is not a big business card, and how you can craft it to inspire your ideal client.
Key takeaways:
- Why you should write a book to grow your business, and not to have a business
- The key role of competency stories
- Why you should give your ideal reader what they already know they want
- How to use the book to get clients once it is published
- And more!
Resources:
- Robin’s book, How to Write a Book that Sells You
About Robin Colucci:
Robin Colucci is the principal founder of World Changing Books. With over 3 decades of experience in journalism and the publishing industry, she is a multi-hyphenated professional—she's a guide, mentor, and strategist for thought leaders ready to see their expertise and ideas become a lasting legacy that changes the world.
Under Robin's expert guidance, World Changing Books has helped authors—from CEOs, astronauts, and Nobel laureates to emerging voices—secure over $6.3 million in advances in a mere 4 years. These authors have successfully landed deals with “Big 5” publishers, won prestigious awards, and earned bestseller statuses everywhere from Amazon to The New York Times.
Summary:
Have you ever wondered what psychedelics and writing have in common?
Neuroscientists are discovering that psychedelics can be a powerful conduit for personal healing, spiritual growth, and discovery. Many authors have found that the writing process can offer similar benefits. On your journey to authorship, if you’re willing to open yourself to the process, you will discover new things about yourself and the world around you.
In episode #127 of The Author’s Corner, Robin is joined by Matt Zenom, a passionate advocate for the thoughtful and responsible use of psychedelics. They discuss how using psychedelics (in responsible settings) can open the door to new levels of self awareness and how this correlates to some of the benefits of writing. Plus, Matt shares how he began his relationship with psychedelics and some fascinating things he has learned along the way.
Key takeaways:
- Similarities between psychedelics and the writing process
- How Matt discovered his passion and calling for psychedelics
- Some of the biggest myths about psychedelics
- Parallels between psychedelics and meditation
- The exciting results of new studies about the utility of psychedelics in healing
- And more!
Resources mentioned in this episode:
- Matt’s book, Psychedelics for Everyone: A Beginner’s Guide to these Powerful Medicines for Anxiety, Depression, Addiction, PTSD, and Expanding Consciousness.
- Donna Marks’ book, Exit the Maze: One Addiction, One Cause, One Solution
- Dr. Gabor Maté’s The Wisdom of Trauma
About Matt Zenom:
Matt Zemon, MSc, is a dedicated explorer of the inner world, and a passionate advocate for the thoughtful and responsible use of psychedelics. With a Master of Science in Psychology and Neuroscience of Mental Health with honors from King’s College London, Matt has studied the effects of psychedelics on the mind and the potential for these experiences to serve as a catalyst for positive transformations. Matt is the author of Psychedelics for Everyone: A Beginner’s Guide to these Powerful Medicines for Anxiety, Depression, Addiction, PTSD, and Expanding Consciousness.
Summary:
You’ve probably heard the term “vanity press,” but you may not know exactly what it is or where it fits in the myriad of publication routes available to authors today.
In episode #126 of The Author’s Corner, Robin is back with another riff to pull back the curtain on the true purpose of a vanity press, and identify some of the red flags you should look out for before you sign with any publisher. Plus, she reveals a surprising truth about why she is in this business and what she thinks should be at the core of every author’s motivation for writing a book.
Key takeaways:
- The definition of a vanity press
- What an IP grab is, and why you should look out for it
- Traditional publishing vs self-publishing vs hybrid publishing vs vanity presses
- How to tell the difference between a legitimate hybrid press and a vanity press
- Why vanity presses exist
- And more!
About Robin Colucci:
Robin Colucci has been helping world class experts write world changing books since 2003. Before that she built, grew, and sold a personal fitness business. She also was a journalist and worked as an acquisitions editor for an independent publishing house. Robin brings her deep, hands-on knowledge of publishing and entrepreneurship to her clients whose books cover a range of topics including: business, personal development, memoir, health and fitness, science and technology, politics, equality, and the environment.
Summary:
A good ghostwriter must be a great writer. But, what makes a ghostwriter great? According to Sheree Trask, a great ghostwriter will act as your business coach, your spiritual guru, and sometimes even your therapist.
In episode #125 of The Author’s Corner, Robin speaks with Sheree Trask about what it takes to be a great ghostwriter. They take a deep-dive into ghostwriting, including which details matter in storytelling, the common mistakes authors make, and how authors can help streamline the writing process towards a great book.
Key takeaways:
- What it takes to be a great ghostwriter
- How to tell what details matter in a story
- The three things authors can do to support ghostwriters
- Why being selfish is okay
- A prescriptive memoir vs memoir
- The cardinal mistakes that authors make (and how to avoid them)
- And more!
About Sheree Trask:
Sheree Traskis a seasoned ghostwriter, nonfiction book writing coach, and the bestselling author of Surviving Silence: A Healing Path to Living Out Loud After Trauma. She is on a mission to help transform the hearts and minds of humanity through courageous storytelling so that together, we can raise the collective consciousness of our world and truly be free to live unapologetically out loud.
Summary:
The #1 area in the entire writing and publishing process that authors report the most frustration and disappointment is book sales. After a few months of promoting their book, most are dismayed by their results, and they stop promoting altogether.
It’s vital to understand that the activities that actually cause book sales are different from activities that promote your book. They are not one in the same. And if you’re confused about which is which, you likely will end up not only disappointed, but you’ll have spent a lot of money that you’ll wish you could get back.
In episode #124 of The Author’s Corner, Robin Colucci is back for another Robin’s Riff where she explains the distinction between book promotion and book sales, and why it is so important to understand the difference. She reveals the specific activities that apply to each category, and the one that counts for both! And, she explains the word-of-mouth tipping point–what it is and how books get there...
Key takeaways:
- The distinction between book promotion and book sales and why you have to understand it
- Activities that promote your book
- Activities that cause sales
- The word-of-mouth tipping point
- And more!
Resources mentioned in this episode:
- Malcolm Gladwell’s Tipping Point: How Little Things Can Make a Big Difference
- Jack Canfield and Mark Victor Hansen’s Chicken Soup for the Soul
- M. Scott Peck’s The Road Less Traveled: A New Psychology of Love, Traditional Values, and Spiritual Growth
- Robert Kiyosaki and Sharon Lechter’s Rich Dad Poor Dad
- Jen Sincero’s You Are a Badass: How to Stop Doubting Your Greatness and Start Living an Awesome Life
About Robin Colucci:
Robin Colucci has been helping world class experts write world changing books since 2003. Before that she built, grew, and sold a personal fitness business. She also was a journalist and worked as an acquisitions editor for an independent publishing house. Robin brings her deep, hands-on knowledge of publishing and entrepreneurship to her clients whose books cover a range of topics including: business, personal development, memoir, health and fitness, science and technology, politics, equality, and the environment.
Summary:
The human species is the only species on earth that suffers from confirmation bias. And with today’s divisive political climate, confirmation bias is on the rise.
Bias is inevitable. It’s impossible to know the experience of every single person, so you must speak from your own. But how do you, as an author, combat the biases that show up in your writing? What can you do to ensure that you’re not inadvertently alienating or excluding segments of your audience?
In episode #123 of The Author’s Corner, Robin is joined by Celeste Headlee to discuss how confirmation bias shows up in books, and what authors can do about it. Celeste also talks about the inspiration behind each of her books, and she divulges her personal process for writing and how it helps to maximize focus.
Key takeaways:
- The inspiration behind each of her books
- How bias shows up in books and what authors can do to mitigate it
- The downfall of self-help
- How to make diverse audiences feel seen
- The rise of confirmation bias
- The power of self compassion
- How to maximize your focus for writing
- And more!
Resources mentioned in this episode:
- Celeste’s books
- Do Nothing: How To Break Away From Overworking, Overdoing, and Underliving
- Speaking of Race: Why Everybody Needs to Talk About Racism—and How to Do It
- It Starts with Self-Compassion: A Practical Road Map
- Headway DEI’s Cultural Context Editing
- A Generation of Sociopaths: How the Baby Boomers Betrayed America, by Bruce Gibney
About Celeste Headlee:
Celeste Headlee is an internationally recognized journalist, radio host, professional speaker, and author of multiple bestselling books, including We Need To Talk: How To Have Conversations That Matter and Speaking of Race: Why Everyone Needs to Talk About Racism and How to Do It. She is the president and CEO of Headway DEI, a non-profit that works to bring racial justice and equity to journalism and media through targeted training and interventions. Celeste is a regular guest host on NPR and American Public Media and in 2019, she received the Media Changemaker Award.
Summary:
If you’re thinking about writing a book, and you’ve also been writing a blog for a few years, it might occur to you: why not just turn my blog posts into my book?
Before you dive right in, consider this. Blogs can be helpful tools as you write your book, but I believe it’s best if you avoid the somewhat popular approach of “copy, paste, and call it a manuscript.”
In this Robin’s Riff episode, I explain why you shouldn’t use your blog posts as the primary content for your book. However, that doesn’t mean that your blog can’t be helpful to your process. I also share some of the ways that you can turn to your blog post archives to help you write a compelling and valuable nonfiction book.
Key takeaways:
- Why you shouldn’t copy and paste blogs to write your book
- How you can use your blogs to help you write
- Why blogging while writing your book is a good idea
- How to use blogs to see how you have grown and evolved
- And more!
About Robin Colucci:
Robin Colucci has been helping world class experts write world changing books since 2003. Before that she built, grew, and sold a personal fitness business. She also was a journalist and worked as an acquisitions editor for an independent publishing house. Robin brings her deep, hands-on knowledge of publishing and entrepreneurship to her clients whose books cover a range of topics including: business, personal development, memoir, health and fitness, science and technology, politics, equality, and the environment.
Summary:
If you’re a regular listener of The Author’s Corner, then you’ve probably considered going for a traditional book deal at some point. If you’d like more insight on how to succeed with that goal, listen up, because this week’s episode will be of special interest!
What better way is there to gain insight into traditional publishing than to learn from the Editor-in-Chief of an important independent publishing house?
In episode #121 of The Author’s Corner, Robin is joined by Matt Holt, Editor-in-Chief of Matt Holt Books, a BenBella imprint. Matt divulges invaluable insight into how he decides who to publish and how authors can make the most of their conversations with editors. He shares his perspective on what it takes to have a bestseller. And Matt and Robin discuss the big shifts happening in the publishing industry and what might be in store for the future.
Key takeaways:
- The big shifts in the publishing industry
- Matt’s three criteria for how he decides which books to publish
- Why memoir is such a difficult genre
- What it takes to have a bestseller
- Advice for searching for and talking to a potential publisher
- And more!
Resources mentioned in this episode:
- BenBella submissions page
About Matt Holt:
Matt Holt is Editor-in-Chief of the BenBella imprint Matt Holt Books. Holt was previously Senior Vice President and Executive Publisher at John Wiley & Sons, where he oversaw a team of 85 staff. Over his 27-year career, Matt has acquired over 1,000 and published 10,000 titles including: Jon Gordon’sEnergy Bus, Larry Winget’sShut Up, Stop Whining, and Get a Life, David Meerman Scott’s New Rules of Marketing and PR, and much more. Holt acquires roughly 20 titles per year focusing on business, finance, and professional development topics.
Summary:
One of the most common questions that Robin gets asked is, “how much should a literary agent cost?”
The short answer is… “We hope your agent costs a lot!”
In episode #120 of The Author’s Corner, Robin explains why that’s a good thing, and it’s all because a legitimate literary agent’s pay is based on how much the publisher pays you. She also reveals the four key ways you can make money through book sales (and the various ways that your agent earns their commission).
Key takeaways:
- What literary agents are typically paid
- The four key ways to make money through book sales
- The red flags you should look for when in the hunt for an agent
Resources mentioned in this episode:
- Association of American Literary Agents (AALA)
- AALA Canon of Ethics
About Robin Colucci:
Robin Colucci has been helping world class experts write world changing books since 2003. Before that she built, grew, and sold a personal fitness business. She also was a journalist and worked as an acquisitions editor for an independent publishing house. Robin brings her deep, hands-on knowledge of publishing and entrepreneurship to her clients whose books cover a range of topics including: business, personal development, memoir, health and fitness, science and technology, politics, equality, and the environment.
Summary:
People aren’t born ready to lead. Leadership is a continuous process of growth, connection, and courage. And while it can seem scary, it also means that you can be a leader right now. You just have to commit to the process.
In episode #119 of The Author’s Corner, Robin is joined by Ash Beckham, an activist and leadership expert. They discuss a few key traits of a leader such as authenticity, courage, individuality, and grace. Ash shares how she adapted her speeches into the book, and how the book has provided a new way to connect with her audience. And they discuss the fear of stepping up, and Ash asks listeners to challenge themselves.
Key takeaways:
- How to step up as an author
- Ash’s leap into authorship
- The difference between a book and a presentation as a medium to connect with your audience and share a message
- The responsibility of creating intimacy with your reader
- How to authentically engage with your audience
- The fear of stepping up
- How you can step up and be a leader today
- And more!
Resources mentioned in this episode:
- Ash’s TEDx Talk, “Coming Out of Your Closet”
- Ash’s book, Step Up: How to Live with Courage and Become an Everyday Leader
About Ash Beckham:
Ash Beckham is an inclusion activist, inclusive leadership expert, professional trainer, workshop facilitator, motivational speaker, business leader and author of Step Up: How to Live with Courage and Become an Everyday Leader. Known for her unique voice, intrepid, relatable and intrinsically comic style, and powerful guidance, Beckham’s TEDx Talk “Coming Out of Your Closet” became a fast viral sensation. A popular speaker and leadership educator, she frequently addresses topics including embracing a different vision of leadership to create change in our workplaces, schools, places of worship, communities and more. Ash has presented keynotes and workshops for more than 200 corporate, government and collegiate events and conferences including The Boeing Company, Bank of America, Microsoft, the Out and Equal Summit, and more.
Summary:
Writing a book is not just about writing a book. It’s also a journey of self-discovery and growth—if you’re open to it. A book can also be a powerful tool to connect with your reader and help them discover something about themselves. But in order to get your reader to a vulnerable place, you have to lead the way.
In episode #118 of The Author’s Corner, Robin is joined by Josh Rivedal, who has dedicated his life to being vulnerable and open about his struggle with depression and suicide, so that others may learn from his challenges. Josh shares the moving story of how he got here today (and how he almost didn’t get here). He talks about how he transformed the darkest period of his life into something that others could learn from, first through speaking, then stand-up comedy, and finally through his books. And we discuss why it is crucial to build trust with your readers, and how humor and vulnerability can help you do so.
Key takeaways:
- Josh’s struggle with depression, and how his family history contributed
- How he turned his struggle with depression into something positive to support others
- How Josh uses his book, speaking, and training gigs together to reach people
- The epiphanies that turned his life around
- Using humor to connect with people about serious topics
- Why building trust with your reader is so important
- How you can get readers’ attention
- And more!
Resources mentioned in this episode:
- Josh’s book, The Gospel According to Josh
About Josh Rivedal:
Joshua Rivedal is an author, speaker, educator, and stand-up comic. He has spoken about suicide prevention and mental health in 550+ locations in 12 years across the U.S., Canada, the U.K., and Australia. His original coursework on suicide prevention is taught in Washington State to dentists, pharmacists, and occupational therapists. As an actor, Joshua’s voice has been heard on U.S. national commercials like Dell, McDonalds, and Dunkin Donuts; and as part of the award-winning voiceover cast of The Art of Secrets by James Klise. In the business world, Joshua has consulted for the marketing team of the world’s best-selling author James Patterson. Joshua is the author of six books, including his memoir The Gospel According to Josh: A 28-Year Gentile Bar Mitzvah.
Summary:
Some of the most notable authors in history have also been the most prolific - Stephen King, Michael Lewis, Agatha Christie. They have made a name for themselves by producing dozens, if not hundreds, of notable works.
But what does it really mean to be prolific? How is it measured? And to what extent does being prolific equal success?
In episode #117 of The Author’s Corner, Robin is joined by Brock Swinson, whose mission is to uncover the secret to being a prolific writer. In their conversation, Brock divulges all kinds of insights and advice for writers who want to be prolific. They touch on topics such as research, writer’s block, and accountability, and discuss what each of them has to do with being prolific. Brock also dispels many myths about the writing process and reveals the key to becoming a prolific writer: falling in love with the craft.
Key takeaways:
- How to reverse engineer your book
- The key role that research plays
- Does writer’s block exist?
- The relationship between quality and quantity
- changing your attitude towards writing (and money)
- How to hold yourself accountable
- The importance of creative growth
- Brock’s favorite piece of advice
- Common false beliefs about writing
Resources mentioned in this episode:
- Steven King’s On Writing: A Memoir of the Craft
- Elizabeth Gilbert
- Turning Pro: Tap Your Inner Power and Create Your Life’s Work, by Steven Pressfield
- Made to Stick: Why Some Ideas Survive and Others Die, by Chip and Dan Heath
About Brock Swinson:
Brock Swinson is an interviewer for Creative Screenwriting and the author of Ink by the Barrel: Secrets from Prolific Writers. His book is broken into three parts - time, voice, and process - and contains advice to help novice writers become prolific. He also has his own podcast Creative Principles, where he interviews writers, directors, actors, and musicians such as Aaron Sorkin, Ethan Hawke, and Judd Apatow, about the habits, routines, and methods of a creative life.
Summary:
When you’re writing a book, songwriting is probably one of the farthest things from your mind. How could they possibly be related?
In this episode, Robin is joined by an award winning songwriter and author, Kevin Griffin, who says the two are not only related, but deeply intertwined.
In a riveting discussion, Kevin shares how his experience in songwriting influenced how he wrote his book. They discuss the power of brevity, and his inspirational legends, both in literature and song. He shares key lessons he learned and invaluable pieces of advice that apply to both songwriting and writing a book, or any other piece.
Key takeaways:
- How songwriting influenced his book
- The power of brevity
- The artists and works that inspired him
- Key advice for young writers
- How to use others’ work to inform your own
- The “crockpot” approach to writing
- The key to collaborating
- And more!
Resources mentioned in this episode:
- Rich Dad, Poor Dad, by Robert Kiyosaki and Sharon Lechter
- Who Moved My Cheese?, by Spencer Johnson, MD
- The Go Getter, by Peter B. Kyne
- Reading Like a Writer, by Francine Prose
- Scrivener Software
About Kevin Griffith:
Kevin Griffin is an award-winning songwriter, producer, and performer whose songs have sold in excess of eighty million copies and been streamed over a billion times. He is best known as the singer and founding member of the platinum-selling rock band, Better Than Ezra. He has written numerous #1’s and had songs performed by artists such as Taylor Swift, Train, Sugarland, Dierks Bentley, Christina Perri, Hunter Hayes, James Blunt, and many more. He is a co-founder and partner in Pilgrimage Music & Cultural Festival located in Franklin, Tennessee, and has served as a writer-in-residence at NYU’s Clive Davis School of Music. Griffin lectures internationally on creativity to groups and companies ranging from Live Nation, Google, Spotify and Disney to Nike, YPO/WPO and Salesforce. In his book, The Greatest Song: Spark Creativity, Ignite Your Career, and Transform Your Life, Griffin uses a fictional narrative to share ideas that can be used by anyone, anywhere, to transform their career and their life.
Summary:
As artists, we’ve taken a sacred oath to tell “the truth,” in one of its many forms, but how do you know what the Truth (capital T) really is?
Like art, truth is often subjective. But if you take this commitment to the truth seriously, and are willing to go to the hard, emotional places where it lives, then you will end up with a piece that not only speaks to your audience, but uncovers your true essence.
In episode #115 of The Author’s Corner, Robin speaks to Katie Love, an artist who strives to use emotion and curiosity to uncover the truth in every piece (and have a few laughs along the way). Katie shares how writing her memoir helped her learn the truth about her past in ways she never expected and why she encourages other artists to do the same to tap into their emotional core. They discuss many aspects of being a writer, including how Katie uses the hero’s journey in everything she writes - from novels to nonfiction to copy writing!
Key takeaways:
- The role that writing played in Katie’s early years
- What she learned about herself by writing her memoir
- The importance of curiosity in writing
- How her background in acting has contributed to her writing, and vice versa
- How the hero’s journey applies to nonfiction (even copy writing!)
- What you can learn from the Trader Joe’s Fearless Flyer
- The best way to learn about characters (and people)
- Insight into Katie’s writing schedule
- The gift of tapping into your emotional core
- Katie’s fear of success as a writer
Resources mentioned in this episode:
- TV series, Dark Shadows
- Tell Yourself a Better Lie, by Marisa Peer
- Katie’s memoir, Two Tickets to Paradise, from Cult to Comedy
- Katie’s novel, Cubicide
- Trader Joe’s Fearless Flyer
About Katie Love:
Katie Love is a writer-comedian, writing coach, and producer living in Los Angeles. She is the author of the memoir, Two Tickets to Paradise, from Cult to Comedy, which recently won the comedy category for the National Indie Excellence Awards. She is also the author of the novel, Cubicide, and L.A. Artists, a collection of interviews featuring some of L.A.’s award-winning artists. Katie is currently hard at work on her new novel and slinging jokes in preparation for her solo show, The Everything Room.
We each have to make thousands of decisions every day—what to wear, which route to take, what to eat for lunch, which books to read. When you’re writing a book, you can expect to add another hundred decisions to your day. What time of day should I write? Should I research more or dive into writing the content? Should I edit as I go or finish the whole draft first?
While making decisions is often tough, it can be easier when you know what kind of decision maker you are. With this knowledge, you can gain insight into the kinds of decisions you are probably going to make in the future, and find your most efficient path forward.
In episode #114 of The Author’s Corner, Robin is joined by Cheryl Strauss Einhorn, who has identified five decision maker types, which she calls Problem Solver Profiles (PSPs). We discuss the strengths and weaknesses of each one, and how you can use them, not only to make better decisions, but also to strengthen your personal and professional relationships. Cheryl also shares how your PSP can relate to problems you encounter in writing.
Key takeaways:
- How to know if your inner voice is lying to you
- The truth behind our cognitive biases
- The five Problem Solver Profiles and examples of how they manifest in the real world
- How knowing these profiles can build stronger relationships
- How to hunt like a cheetah
- Why Cheryl went from journalist to entrepreneur
- And more!
Resources mentioned in this episode:
- Cheryl’s Tedx Talk: When Your Inner Voice Lies to You
- Cheryl’s books
- The AREA Method
- AREA Cheetah Sheets
About Deborah Johnson:
Cheryl Strauss Einhorn is the founder of Decisive, a decision sciences company that trains people and teams in complex problem solving and decision-making skills using the AREA Method. AREA is an evidence-based decision-making system that uniquely controls for and counters cognitive bias to expand knowledge while improving judgment. Cheryl developed AREA during her two decades as an award-winning investigative journalist writing for publications ranging from The New York Times and Foreign Policy Magazine to The Stanford Social Innovation Review. Cheryl teaches at Cornell University and has authored three books Problem Solved: A Powerful System for Making Complex Decisions with Confidence and Conviction, about personal and professional decision-making, and Investing In Financial Research: A Decision-Making System for Better Resultsabout financial and investment decisions. Her new book about Problem Solver Profiles, Problem Solver: Maximizing Your...
Summary:
Before you write one word of your book, or even begin to build your outline, there’s one thing you need to figure out: your “why.”
The answers to this question might not be the same for everything you write, so “WHY?” is a question you should be asking at the outset of every single book project you begin.
In episode #113 of The Author’s Corner, Robin is joined by Deborah Johnson, who has a different “why” for each of her six books. They dive into the reason behind each of her books, and discuss some of the best reasons to write and book, and some of the not-so-great reasons. Finally, Deborah reveals her secret to overcoming writer's block.
Key takeaways:
- How writing song and musical theater compares to writing a book
- How asking “why” for each book grew her purpose
- The importance of asking “why”
- Why she decided to write an allegory
- Legitimate and non-legitimate reasons to write your book
- How to give your mind a break
Resources mentioned in this episode:
- Deborah’s books
- Deborah’s podcast, Women at Halftime
- Halftime Institute
- Their book, Women at Halftime
- Dolly Parton’s memoir
- Hero Mountain Summit
About Deborah Johnson:
Deborah Johnson, M.A. has not only written multiple books and albums, but hundreds of songs, three full-length musicals and is the producer of the popular podcast, Women at Halftime. Deborah is the author of six books including, The Summit: Journey to Hero Mountain, and her most recent, Stop Circling: Steps to Escape Endless Roundabouts. She relishes the creative process and has focused on helping those at mid-career or the halftime of life maximize their skills, talents, and resources to make their second half better than their first. Deborah was past president of the National Speakers Association, Los Angeles and has written & produced multiple online courses.
With over 2- years in the entertainment industry and up for multiple GRAMMY Awards, she's built multiple self-driven businesses and is an expert on how to constantly reinvent yourself in a gig-economy.
When you walk into Barnes & Noble, one of the biggest sections you find is the Health and Nutrition section. Thousands of cookbooks line the shelves, with at least ten for each lifestyle.
It’s overwhelming enough for readers, but as an aspiring author in the health/nutrition industry, you might be wondering, how will you stand out?
In episode #112 of The Author’s Corner, Robin is joined by Kristel de Groot, co-author of Your Super Life, who may have cracked the code on how to make her book stand out. Kristel shares how she structured her book so that it not only stood out, but made the content more reader friendly than most books in the health/nutrition space. They also dive into the triggering event that made her go from an entrepreneur to an author. Finally, she offers valuable insight into the marketing strategy that she and her husband/co-author Michael used to promote their book. Plus lots of nutrition tips along the way!
Key takeaways:
- Advice on how to heighten visibility and influence of your business
- Insight into how Kristel decided to structure and frame the book so that her ideas presented in a fresh perspective
- The triggering event that inspired her to go from entrepreneur to author
- What it was like to write the book in partnership with her husband, Michael
- The marketing strategies that they used to make their book a success
- Plus lots of nutrition tips along the way!
Resources mentioned in this episode:
- Dr. William Li’s latest book, Eat to Beat Your Diet
- Kristel and Michael’s newest book, Your Super Life: 100+ Delicious, Plant-Based Recipes Made with Nature's Most Powerful Superfoods
- Kristel and Michael’s podcast
About Kristel de Groot:
Kristel de Groot is half of the powerhouse team behind Your Super, one of the biggest superfood brands in the U.S. and Europe. When Kristel’s partner, Michael, was diagnosed with cancer at age 24, she started experimenting with the possibilities of using food as medicine. Using organic superfood and plant protein mixes to help boost immunity and overall health, the company has quickly spread across six continents and 60+ countries. Your Super has helped millions of people to change their lifestyle and feel better with the power of plants.
Kristel is a nutrition coach with certifications in plant-based nutrition from eCornell University and IIN. Kristel has been named among the 30 Under 30 by both Forbes and Inc Magazine, and has been featured in a dazzling array of media, from Forbes to Cheddar TV, InStyle, Well + Good, The Doctors, and Good Day L.A.
As a woman, mom, and female founder, she is advocating that true diversity is about celebrating the differences between women and men in the workplace. She introduced the moon day policy where women get 1 day per month when they have a period to do what they can - from canceling their meetings to taking the day off. Kristel and Michael recently published their newest book Your Super Life: 100+ Delicious, Plant-Based Recipes Made with Nature's Most Powerful Superfoods and host a popular podcast by the same name.
Memoirs are among the most difficult books to write. How do you tell your life story so that your readers are enraptured every step of the way? And how do you make the reader feel connected enough to keep their interest, when the entire book is about your story?
Though the book is about your life, you still need to be telling it for a reason. You need a central message to send to your reader, and then you use your most compelling life stories to illustrate it.
In episode #111 of The Author’s Corner, Robin is joined by her longtime friend and client, Dr. Louis J. Ignarro, to discuss the noble reason that he wrote his memoir, and what he learned from putting it all on the page. Dr. Ignarro shares some of the fascinating stories that he includes in the book, from a curious child of immigrants who liked messing around with explosives to winning the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine, and eventually contributing to the creation of Viagra.
Key Takeaways:
- The importance of nitric oxide (NO) and the outcomes of Dr. Ignarro’s discovery (including the science and story behind erectile dysfunction and the creation of Viagra)
- Why he decided to write a memoir
- A sneak peek at some (but not all!) of the best stories that Dr. Ignarro tells in his memoir
- What Dr. Ignarro learned from writing his memoir
- And the exciting next step for his story…
Resources Mentioned in this Episode:
- Dr. Ignarro’s memoir, Dr NO: The Discovery That Led to a Nobel Prize and Viagra
- The film, A Beautiful Mind
About Dr. Louis J. Ignarro:
A native of Brooklyn, NY, Dr. Ignarro studied chemistry and pharmacy at Columbia University (1958-1962) before earning his PhD in Pharmacology at the University of Minnesota (1966). In 1968, he completed a postdoctoral fellowship in chemical pharmacology at the NIH. Some of his notable discoveries include the benefits and uses of nitric oxide. Nitric oxide relaxes vascular smooth muscle, lowers blood pressure, improves blood flow, prevents stroke and myocardial infarction, is the mediator of erectile function and responsible for the action of Viagra, and is responsible for the action of nitroglycerin. Dr. Ignarro has received many awards for his work, including the 1998 Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine, along with Robert F. Furchgott and Ferid Murad, “for their discovery that nitric oxide acts as a signaling molecule in the cardiovascular system.” A prolific scholar, Dr. Ignarro has published numerous articles and books, including his memoir, Dr NO: The Discovery That Led to a Nobel Prize and Viagra. He is the founder of the Nitric Oxide Society and is a member of the National Academy of Sciences, the National Academy of Medicine, the American Academy of Arts and Sciences, and the American Philosophical Society.
There’s no one way to achieve success with your book. Success might look different for everyone; it depends on your goals, and why you chose to write the book in the first place. Though success differs, most authors find their success utilizing similar strategies. As an aspiring author, the best way to find your unique road to success is to learn from the authors who came before you. And the guest in this episode will give you a complete 360° view of all that it took her to succeed.
Robin sits down with Keisha Blair, author of Holistic Wealth Expanded and Updated: 36 Life Lessons To Help You Recover From Disruption, Find Your Life Purpose and Achieve Financial Freedom, and founder of the Institute on Holistic Wealth. In this conversation, Robin and Keisha discuss the viral article she wrote called, "My Husband Died at Age 34 and here are 40 Life Lessons I Learned from it" and how it was the seed that eventually grew into her book. Keisha shares some of her insights from the writing process, such as deciding what information to include and what to leave out. She also reveals how she was able to land some very influential endorsers for her book, such as Arianna Huffington and actress Kelly Rutherford, who wrote the foreword for Holistic Wealth.
Key Takeaways from This Episode:
- How an article posted on Thrive Global eventually reached 50 million views and became the catalyst for Keisha's book.
- How Keisha was able to secure endorsements from Arianna Huffington and Kelly Rutherford.
- How to reach out to the right people for book endorsements.
- Why her seemingly "instant" bestseller was actually the result of nearly a decade of work.
- And much more...
Resources Mentioned in this Episode:
Keisha's LinkedIn
Holistic Wealth book
Keisha's website
About Keisha Blair:
Keisha is a wife, mother of three, author of Holistic Wealth Expanded and Updated: 36 Life Lessons To Help You Recover From Disruption, Find Your Life Purpose and Achieve Financial Freedom, and founder of the Institute on Holistic Wealth. She is a trained economist, with extensive experience in the public, private, and not-for-profit sectors. Her career began working on economic development projects sponsored by the World Bank and Inter-American Development Bank. Keisha was a senior economist working in economic development and corporate finance, working on several federal budgets. She was part of the Prime Minister’s delegation to the World Economic Forum in 2018 as well as the East-Asia (ASEAN) Summit in Singapore. She is a graduate of the Executive Leadership Program at Harvard University’s John. F Kennedy School of Government.
One of the most essential components of writing a book that people want to read is the ability to tell a great story.
While storytelling is often described as an art, there is, in fact, a science to it as well, and our guest today is here to help you make your stories more engaging and inviting for your reading audience.
In this episode of The Author's Corner, Robin sits down with Richard Newman, an award-winning expert in leadership communication and storytelling, as well as the author of You Were Born to Speak and Lift Your Impact. During the episode, Robin and Richard discuss self-publishing his first book, and how it provided lessons and insights that helped him with his second book, published by McGraw Hill. They discuss the importance of tying science and technical writing to personal experiences that an audience can relate to. They explore the ways in which stories help bring numbers and data to life for an audience. Richard also shares some insights into the challenges of taking material that's been taught on a stage and putting it into book form.
Key Takeaways from This Episode:
- How Richard discovered the science of storytelling.
- How his first self-published book paved the way for his second book.
- Determining the 'hero' of your story: Who are you writing this for?
- Why Richard chose to self-publish his first book.
- And much more...
Resources Mentioned in this Episode:
Richard's LinkedIn
Lift Your Impact book
You Were Born to Speak book
Body Talk
About Richard Newman:
Richard is an award-winning expert in leadership communication, storytelling and influence, and has worked in advanced communication since 1995. He specializes in showing leaders how to speak with greater impact and influence. He is regularly featured on BBC London Radio and is the author of the best-selling book You Were Born to Speak. Richard’s clients include CEOs, Vice-Presidents and leadership teams across many industries. He began by teaching English as a foreign language living in a Tibetan monastery in India. He then studied professional acting in London for three years, working as an actor on stage and screen, while continuing to study communication skills. In 2000, Richard founded Body Talk and began working with a well-known Formula 1 team. His team at Body Talk has now worked with over 75,000 clients from 46 countries around the world.
No matter what genre you’re writing, good research is critical, particularly when you’re writing an investigative piece. And in many cases, the greatest tactic for research is interviewing people. But being a good interviewer takes time and practice. You have to develop the skills and learn how to read people to get the information that you need.
In this episode of The Author's Corner, Robin sits down with a seasoned interviewer and author, Keith Mason. Thanks to a long career interviewing artists and stars such as Jerry Garcia and Monty Python and four decades in public relations, Keith had the opportunity to develop his chops as an interviewer, a skill that would one day culminate in the fascinating investigative narrative about the once-unsolved murder of his grandfather. His book, Please Stand Up, is a journey to discover the father Keith never knew, and the killer who murdered his grandfather. They discuss the process of interviewing some of the biggest names in entertainment and how a great interview requires being more human in conversation. Keith also reveals his “golden rule”: to never put anything out in the public that will hurt anyone.
Key Takeaways from This Episode:
- The benefit of asking 'off-topic' questions in interviews.
- The process of investigative writing, from research to interviewing.
- Keith's biggest challenge when shifting from short- to long-form writing.
- How Keith presented his findings to his family and aging mother.
- And much more...
Resources Mentioned in this Episode:
Keith's website
Please Stand Up book
About Keith Mason:
Keith’s years of storytelling began with music and cultural observation in Philadelphia newspapers, interviewing dozens of top artists from Jerry Garcia and Phil Collins to George Carlin and Monty Python. In 1978, the writer began a nearly forty-year career in public relations, nonprofit development and the performing arts, including stints at Drexel University and the Kimmel Center (home of the Philadelphia Orchestra) and for elderly and disability services. Some of his most satisfying work came at a major addiction recovery center as the opioid crisis unfolded in the early 2000s. He created and taught a senior writing course at Temple University. After years of telling the stories of others, Keith wrote his own tale, Please Stand Up, a story he never expected to experience, much less write.
Success can be a double edged sword; when you meet or exceed your goals, the first thing you feel is a rush of elation and pride. But often, right around the corner is a lurking sense of anxiety, stress, and fear.
Authors feel this sensation at many points in the writing process. You manage to get the manuscript drafted, but you worry it might not connect with readers after it’s published. You publish it and it’s a massive success, but what’s next? How do you follow up a bestseller? What if you can’t do it again?
If you’ve felt sensations like this, but didn’t know how to describe it, Laura Gassner Otting has the perfect word for you: Wonderhell.
In this episode of The Author's Corner, Robin sits down with best-selling author, keynote speaker, and executive coach Laura Gassner Otting, to discuss this common feeling of self-doubt, stress, and even fear that come up when we encounter an amazing opportunity or achieve success. It seems counter intuitive, but successful people wrestle with this feeling all the time. Laura's newest book, Wonderhell: Why Success Doesn't Feel Like It Should... and What to Do About It aims to help readers navigate this strange experience. Laura also gives some insight into her writing process, such as the importance of sharing your own story, walking the fine line between inspirational and relatable, and how the content for Limitless took twenty years to experience, and six weeks to write.
Key Takeaways from This Episode:
- Why Laura believes there's no endpoint to success, there's just a waypoint to what else we can do.
- Why imposter syndrome is often more intense for writers.
- The fine line between being inspirational and being relatable.
- Why Laura wants wonderhell to be in the dictionary.
- And much more...
Resources Mentioned in this Episode:
Laura's website
Limitless: How to Ignore Everybody, Carve Your Own Path, and Live Your Best Life book
Laura's Instagram
About Laura Gassner Otting:
Laura’s secret superpower is seeing your greatness and reflecting it back on you, so that you can get "unstuck" and achieve extraordinary results. A frequent contributor to Good Morning America, the TODAY Show, Harvard Business Review, and Oprah Daily, Laura’s 30-year resume is defined by her entrepreneurial edge. She served as a Presidential Appointee in Bill Clinton’s White House, helping shape AmeriCorps; left a leadership role at respected national search firm to expand a tech start-up; and founded, ran, and sold her own global search firm, partnering with the full gamut of mission driven corporate and nonprofit executives. She is the author of two books, Limitless: How to Ignore Everybody, Carve Your Own Path, and Live Your Best Life and Wonderhell: Why Success Doesn't Feel Like It Should... and What to Do About It.
Creativity plays an important role in our society, but it is often overlooked. Without it, we wouldn’t have art, theater, or books (to name a few). But outside of the creative arts, creativity also plays a critical role in our everyday lives, as it contributes to effective problem solving and decision making.
In this episode of The Author's Corner, Robin sits down with Tony Award-winning producer, coach, trainer, and speaker John Pinckard to discuss the power of creativity. Robin and John explore the many aspects of creativity, and the myriad ways that we can tap into, utilize, and benefit from our own natural creative instincts. John debunks the idea that only certain people are creative, revealing that we are all, at our cores, creative creatures. He also offers thoughts on the so-called ‘threat’ of AI to the creative fields, and why there are aspects of the lived experience that AI can never truly replace.
Key Takeaways from This Episode:
- Why John equates working in theater and making a living doing it with winning the Powerball lottery.
- The reason why 'I'm not a creative person' is one of the dirtiest lies we tell ourselves.
- Why creativity - particularly for writers - revolves around the live experience.
- The art of coaching - asking the right questions, rather than giving answers.
- And much more...
Resources Mentioned in this Episode:
John's website
John's LinkedIn
About John Pinckard:
John Pinckard’s best known work has been as a two-time Tony Award winning producer on Broadway, where he was responsible for hits like American Idiot, Clybourne Park, and A Gentleman’s Guide to Love & Murder. Perhaps his most surprising work was a seven year stint in investment banking while running a lighting design firm. However, his most meaningful work has always been as a consultant and coach. For twenty years, he advised countless artists, executives, and stars throughout the entertainment industry. Now based in San Francisco, Pinckard is bringing his distinct perspective on conscious leadership, intentional relationships, and creative recovery to founders and leaders throughout the Silicon Valley community. He has taught at Columbia University, the University of Florida and the University of Central Florida, and is an alumnus of the UC Berkeley Executive Coaching Institute at the Haas College of Business.
The number one excuse from aspiring authors who don’t yet have their book in hand: “I don’t have enough time right now.” If this seems familiar to you, you’ve got to ask yourself: when will you have enough time? Next month? Two years from now? More often than not, people who say they want to write a book never do. They simply continue to live their busy life and make excuses. Truth is, you’ll never have the time. You have to make the time.
In this episode of The Author's Corner, Robin sits down with Dr. Robert Saul, a busy pediatrician for 44 years who has also made the time to write over 160 op-eds and author three books (and counting). Robin and Dr. Saul discuss his book and the circumstances that led to its creation. They explore the writing process for a busy professional like himself, and how he now creates weekly blog posts for his mailing list - “planting seedlings” as he puts it - to help develop current and future writing projects. He also offers thoughts on being more intentional with his writing, such as finding the small, quiet moments of downtime when he can fit it in.
Key Takeaways from This Episode:
- What inspired Dr. Saul to write his first book, 'Conscious Parenting: Using the Parental Awareness Threshold.'
- The concept of the parental awareness threshold.
- A typical day for Dr. Saul writing as a busy professional.
- Why developing trust is the most important element in the medical profession.
- And much more...
Resources Mentioned in this Episode:
My Children's Children
Dr. Saul's LinkedIn
About Dr. Robert Saul:
In over 44 years as a pediatrician, Robert Saul has developed a keen awareness of parenting skills, raising children to be good citizens, how to improve our communities, and how to advocate for children. He has authored several books, including, Conscious Parenting: Using the Parental Awareness Threshold, which provides a basic framework to give parents the learned ability to understand their interactions with their children and to change their responses to maximize positive results and minimize negative results.
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In today's episode of The Author's Corner, Robin sits down with Erika Andresen, CBCP, JD, MPA, a veteran, lawyer, small business owner, and of course, the author of, How to Not Kill Your Business: Grow Your Business in Any Environment, Navigate Volatility and Successfully Recover When Things Go Wrong. Robin and Erika discuss the reasons why she made the switch, both in her career - from corporate law to active duty with the military - and also in her writing style - from complex legalese to approachable terminology that better connects with people. Get a peek into her motivations to write her book, including her dream of helping mom-and-pop shops who are not willing or able to spend money on business continuity consulting, and why her book is the solution.
Key Takeaways from This Episode:
- How Erika made the transition from academic to mass market writing.
- Erica's primary motivation for writing her book.
- The importance of understanding the target audience and speaking to them in their terms.
- How the process of writing her book has helped her more fully appreciate the value she brings to others.
- And much more...
Resources Mentioned in this Episode:
EaaS Consulting LLC
Erika's LinkedIn
About Erika Andresen:
Erika Andresen, CBCP, JD, MPA, is a recovering lawyer after nearly two decades in both the corporate finance world and the military. Erika became a subject matter expert on national security and disaster preparedness/response while advising different commands and also during high-risk situations in Afghanistan. Her work with actual disasters led her to attain a Master of Public Affairs.
Erika left active duty in 2020 and has since started EaaS Consulting, LLC, with the goal of keeping businesses in business. To that end, she authored How to Not Kill Your Business: Grow Your Business in Any Environment, Navigate Volatility, and Successfully Recover When Things Go Wrong, a conversational introduction to business continuity enjoyed by CBCP practitioners and business owners alike. Erika is also a professor of emergency management for the MPA program at the University of Texas at El Paso. She has been quoted in articles for Forbes, Dark Reading, SmartSheet, and MoneyGeek on the issues of business continuity and disaster preparedness.
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In this episode of The Author's Corner, Robin sits down with John Pabon, sustainability expert and author of The Great Greenwashing. John shares the combination of frustration, stupidity, and hubris that inspired him to write and self-publish his first book, Sustainability for the Rest of Us: Your No-Bullshit, Five-Point Plan for Saving the Planet. Robin and John discuss his decision to write in his own voice, in a way that spoke to a mass audience, rather than the way he would normally speak to his peers in the sustainability sector. You'll also learn about the concept of "greenwashing:" a process in which companies and governments will wrap themselves in the language of sustainability, in an effort to distract people from the bad environmental practices they have in the background.
Key Takeaways from This Episode:
- Why John chose to self-publish his first book, and the lessons he learned from that process.
- The goal of his new book is to help people understand the myths and misunderstandings surrounding sustainability.
- The positives (and negatives) of traditional and self-publishing, from John's experience.
- The impact that the private sector can have on sustainability.
- And much more...
Resources Mentioned in this Episode:
John's website
John's LinkedIn
The Great Greenwashing book
About John Pabon:
John Pabon has spent two decades in the business of saving our Earth. After leaving his role at the United Nations, John traveled the world studying the impacts of sustainability first-hand in factories, on fields, and in Fortune 500s. His mission is to move sustainability from theory to practical strategies that help people and businesses confidentially make real impact.
Over his 20-year career, he’s had the privilege of working with the United Nations, McKinsey, A.C. Nielsen, and as a consultant with BSR, the world’s largest sustainability-focused business network. He is the founder of Fulcrum Strategic Advisors, Programme Director for The Conference Board’s Asia Sustainability Leaders Council, and serves on the board of advisors to the U.S. Green Chamber of Commerce. John is also the author of Sustainability for the Rest of Us: Your No-Bullshit, Five-Point Plan for Saving the Planet. His upcoming book, The Great Greenwashing, is out June 1st, 2023.
Intellectual property is a concept every writer should be aware of—specifically, how to protect yours, and how to respect other people's. In this episode, our guest understands that better than most, and thankfully is here to share her knowledge. Andrea Sager is the CEO and founder of Legalpreneur, host of the Legalpreneur podcast, and the author of Legalpreneur: The Business Owner’s Guide To Legally Protecting Their Business. Robin and Andrea discuss the "big three" legal elements authors should be aware of to limit their liability. Andrea shares her advice for authors who decide to self-publish and she provides many more tips on the options you have available when/if you find your work has been stolen.
Key Takeaways from This Episode:
- Why so many attorneys fail to understand solo- and entrepreneurs.
- Why every author needs to have a business entity, particularly when self-publishing.
- How Andrea has helped clients defend their copyright.
- What to do when you discover that someone has blatantly stolen from you (i.e. plagiarism.)
- The important difference between the 'copyright' and the 'right to publish.'
- …and much more!
Resources Mentioned in this episode:
Legalpreneur
Andrea's LinkedIn
Legalpreneur book
About Andrea Sager:
Andrea Sager is the CEO and founder of Legalpreneur, a legal tech startup that focuses on offering affordable legal services to businesses of all sizes. She is the author of The Legalpreneur: The Business Owner’s Guide to Legally Protecting Your Business. While working at a corporate firm, Andrea noticed a gap in the legal industry – no one was catering to the small, innovative start-up brands dominating her social media feeds. As a serial entrepreneur, she knew firsthand the importance of building a business with a solid legal foundation. However, she also knew that many new businesses simply did not have the funds. That realization led to the development of Legalpreneur. Because legal services should be accessible to everyone. In addition to running her company, Andrea is a mom of two in Houston and is passionate about all things health, wellness, poker, and business.
The truth is important for every author, but it is especially important if you are writing a book on a controversial topic. Controversial topics attract pushback and criticism, so if you get something wrong, you’re extra likely to get called out for it. That’s why it’s essential to ensure accuracy when you’re writing about a controversial topic, just like William Cooper. William is the author of Stress Test: How Donald Trump Threatens American Democracy, as well as a columnist whose writings have appeared in over 100 publications globally including the Wall Street Journal, New York Daily News, Huffington Post, and USA Today. In this episode, William and Robin discuss the dangers of 'filling in the blanks' with preconceived notions around controversial subjects, the origins of his moderate nature, as well as the process of turning a collection of articles into a book.
Key Takeaways from This Episode:
- William's thoughtful and level-headed approach to controversial and polarizing topics.
- How to cut through rhetoric and grandstanding when looking for facts in the media.
- Why William believes the Clinton impeachment was frivolous and a mistake and why Trump's was much more serious.
- How he turned a collection of his published columns into a book.
- …and much more!
Resources Mentioned in this Episode:
Stress Test book
About William Cooper:
William Cooper is an attorney, columnist, and author of Stress Test: How Donald Trump Threatens American Democracy, which Publishers Weekly calls “a compelling rallying cry for democratic institutions under threat in America.” His commentary has appeared in hundreds of publications globally including The New York Times, New York Daily News, Baltimore Sun, USA Today, Huffington Post, Toronto Star, Shenzhen Daily, and Jerusalem Post.
Today marks our 100th episode, and this time Robin is flying solo to offer her thoughts on one of the most underrated strategies used in self publishing: the book proposal. Book proposals are essential in traditional publishing, but they are also highly useful if you are planning to self-publish. It's not easy, nor is it an intuitive process, but it can provide a real advantage when your book is ready to be published. You wouldn't start a business without a business plan, and you shouldn't try to publish a book without a book proposal. Luckily, Robin is here to offer her expertise to help you understand this vital process.
Key Takeaways from This Episode:
- The key elements of a book proposal.
- How to create a due date for your book.
- The importance of describing your audience in your book proposal.
- Why the book-comps exercise is such a huge confidence boost.
- Why you need to create an outline for your book.
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Robin Colucci's Book: How to Write a Book That Sells You: Increase Your Credibility, Income, and Impact
We've all heard stories of women who've created content for the internet - a blog or viral social media post - and then turned it into a book. Take the example of Julie Powell, who decided to cook all of Julia Child's recipes in a single year and publish the results to her blog. It landed over 400,000 views and ended up leading to a movie called Julie and Julia. More recently, Rachel Hollis created a social media post with a photo of her stretch marks, with the comment that she was proud and would not be shamed by them. The sentiment resonated so much with women readers that she ended up writing a book, Girl, Stop Apologizing, and later, Girl, Wash Your Face, which were unbelievably successful in sales on the New York Times bestsellers list. You hear stories like this and it makes you wonder, could that really happen to a real person? Could it happen to me? Today's guest, Dana Miranda, is here to share how it really happened to her, and what we can learn from her experience.
Key Takeaways from This Episode:
- How Dana landed her book deal with Little, Brown Spark, an imprint of Hachette, one of the 'big five' publishers.
- How Dana got started writing in the personal finance space.
- The article she wrote that caught everyone’s attention.
- How to get an agent to help you develop a book proposal, and how to get the proposal from an agent to a publisher.
- How to use your book as an anchor for marketing and building your audience.
Resources Mentioned in this Episode:
Healthy Rich website
Dana Miranda LinkedIn
About Dana Miranda:
Dana is a Certified Educator in Personal Finance (CEPF), an author and a personal finance journalist. She's the founder of Healthy Rich, a platform for inclusive, budget-free financial education, working with organizations, schools and companies dedicated to making money better for folks who are often left out of the conversation about money. Her approach to financial education lends an antidote to pervasive budget culture, a damaging set of beliefs that rewards restriction and deprivation and promotes an unhealthy and fantastical ideal of financial wellness. Dana grew up in a working-class family in a small town in Wisconsin. Upon joining the world of personal finance media in 2015, she quickly discovered that the niche was led mostly by advice (and admonitions) from middle-class white men, ignoring the broad diversity of our relationships with work and money. After leaving a leadership position with a popular financial media startup and spending two years as a freelance writer, Dana created Healthy Rich to start a new kind of conversation about money. She has written about work and money for Forbes, Insider, Culture Study, the New York Times, CNBC, The Motley Fool, NextAdvisor, and Inc. magazine, among others.
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- Robin Colucci's Book: How to Write a Book That Sells You: Increase Your Credibility, Income, and Impact
Here's an interesting question: What does sharing stories and advice on how to talk to kids about LGBTQ families and friends have in common with catering? Stumped? Today's guest has some insights that might help. Sudi "Rick" Karatas is the author of two books: 'Rainbow Relatives,' real-world stories about how to talk to kids about LGBTQ families and friends, and 'How Catering Sucked the Life Right Out of Me.' In this fascinating discussion, Rick explains why he goes by two different names (Sudi and Rick), as well as his experiences with both traditional publishing and self-publishing. He also outlines some of the fears and doubts that came up for him when writing his first book.
Key Takeaways from this Episode:
- Why he goes by both "Sudi" and "Rick" and the differences between those two distinct personalities.
- Why 'Rainbow Relatives' is about educating people, not preaching.
- The fears and doubts that come up when writing a book, and how he overcame them.
- What was behind the decision to self-publish 'How Catering Sucked the Life Right Out of Me.'
- The importance of a good book title.
Resources Mentioned in this Episode:
Sudi "Rick" Karatas website
Sudi "Rick" Karatas Instagram
Rainbow Relatives
How Catering Sucked the Life Right Out of Me
About Sudi (Rick) Karatas
Author, actor, songwriter, screenwriter, singer, producer. Sudi Karatas has worn many hats - so many that he has two names (Sudi and Rick) to help differentiate his two distinct personalities. He says he was born to write, with pen and paper in hand, saving him thousands of dollars on therapy. Rick has written two books: 'Rainbow Relatives,' a parenting book that deals with stories and advice on speaking to kids about LGBTQ topics, and 'How Catering Sucked the Life Right Out of Me,' an entertaining look at his experiences in the catering industry. Sudi grew up in Syosset, New York but has been living in Southern California the last 20 years. Besides screenplays and books, he's also written many songs that are on Spotify and Itunes, 12 scripts and a couple of pilots.
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Data analytics has become essential for writing and publishing books in today’s digital era, so listen in as we chat with Christina Inge about the significance of gathering relevant information in your book-writing process. Listen until the end to optimize your marketing strategies and make data-driven decisions that lead to success.
Key Takeaways from This Episode
- Various methods of utilizing data to boost a publishing company’s catalog
- The impact of making data-driven decisions as a marketer
- Free and reliable data sources and how to maximize their marketing value
- Reasons why you don’t need to buy information from data-curation companies
- How data can make your book more relevant and sellable
- Practical advice to help authors succeed in the writing industry
Resources Mentioned in this episode
- Marketing Metrics by Christina Inge | Kindle, Hardcover, and Paperback
- Google Analytics
- Google Search Console
- Newsletter
- Ubersuggest: Free Keyword Research Tool
- AnswerThePublic
- Hootsuite
- Marketing Analytics by Christina J. Inge | Paperback
About Christina Inge
Christina Inge has two decades of experience leading digital strategy and managing complex marketing technology projects. She specializes in articulating effective, efficient digital strategies for organizations using the latest channels to drive results. She is the founder of Sleek Marketing, which offers hands-on education on digital marketing in the Boston area. She is the author of Marketing Metrics and Fundamentals of Marketing Analytics.
Christina served on the board of the American Marketing Association as vice president of social media throughout much of the 2000s. She is a frequent and sought-after speaker on web analytics, content strategy, and SEO. She has worked with well-established brands such as Nissan, Smithsonian, and Pega Systems, as well as a range of startups and nonprofits. Christina has won numerous awards for her work, including the Social Media Society Social Media Stars award, as well as the FutureM Future of Marketing award. She has been a Mass challenge mentor and has served on the board of the IEEE Entrepreneur’s Network.
Christina holds a BA in English from the University of Maryland University College and an MS in Instructional Technology from the University of Wyoming.
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Unravel the mysteries to writing a jaw-dropping sequel in this week’s episode with Dr. William W. Li as he shares the process and experiences he went through in writing his upcoming book Eat to Beat Your Diet: Burn Fat, Heal Your Metabolism, and Live Longer. Listen until the end for valuable insights that’ll help you write a sequel that satisfies your audience!
Key Takeaways from This Episode
- Top tips for creating an unforgettable villain
- Significance of having a good subtitle for your book
- Eye-opening realizations about the book writing process and authorship
- Proven strategies for writing a successful sequel
- The importance of working with an efficient team
- How much does it typically cost to publish a book?
Resources Mentioned in this episode
- Jaws
- Harry Potter
- Indiana Jones
- The Godfather
- Star Wars
- Eat to Beat Disease by Dr. William W. Li | Kindle and Hardcover
About Dr. William W. Li
William W. Li, MD, is an internationally renowned physician, scientist, and author of the New York Times bestseller Eat to Beat Disease: The New Science of How Your Body Can Heal Itself. His groundbreaking work has led to the development of more than 30 new medical treatments and impacts care for more than 70 diseases, including cancer, diabetes, blindness, heart disease, and obesity. His TED Talk, “Can We Eat to Starve Cancer?” has garnered more than 11 million views. Dr. Li has appeared on Good Morning America, CNN, CNBC, and the Dr. Oz Show and has been featured in USA Today, Time Magazine, The Atlantic, and O Magazine. He is the president and medical director of the Angiogenesis Foundation and is leading research into COVID-19. His newest book, Eat to Beat Your Diet: Burn Fat, Heal Your Metabolism, and Live Longer, will be released on March 21, 2023.
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Explore valuable insights to grow your resource capacity as Tim Kachuriak shares his discoveries in the value proposition index study. We’ll also discuss digital fundraising, some best practices for using technology to maximize fundraising projects, and how it ties to authors and books.
Key Takeaways from This Episode
- Value proposition: What it is and how it relates to digital fundraising and book writing
- The value of having compelling stories in your organization
- Impact of using text vs. videos on a non-profit donation page
- Benefits of turning book chapters into a free online course for donors
- 4 elements of an effective value proposition
Resources Mentioned in this episode
- Back to Earth by Nicole Stott | Kindle, Hardcover, and Paperback
- The Spring - The charity: water story
- Rev
About Tim Kachuriak
Tim Kachuriak is the founder and Chief Innovation and Optimization Officer for NextAfter, a fundraising research lab consultancy and training institute that works with charities, nonprofits, and NGOs to help them grow their resource capacity. He was the lead researcher and co-author of the Online Fundraising Scorecard, Why Should I Give to You? (The Nonprofit Value Proposition Index Study), and The Midlevel Donor Crisis. Kachuriak has trained organizations in fundraising optimization around the world and is a frequent speaker at international nonprofit conferences.
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- Robin Colucci’s Book: How to Write a Book That Sells You: Increase Your Credibility, Income, and Impact
Join us in today’s episode as Licensed Certified Neonatal Therapist Sue Ludwig shares her story about how she pulled a multitude of lessons from her experiences in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit to get her life back on track and write her book. Check out this episode to learn why being intentional during your book-writing journey is important for authors!
Key Takeaways from This Episode
- Challenges authors face in book writing and how to overcome them
- The value of being intentional in writing a book
- Significance of constant learning in self-development
- Things you should consider to boost creativity and productivity
- Importance of alignment and balance in your book writing journey
- The extra why’s in writing a book
Resources Mentioned in this episode
Tiny Humans, Big Lesson by Sue Ludwigo | Kindle and Paperback
About Sue Ludwig
Sue Ludwig is a sought-after speaker, consultant, and writer. A licensed occupational therapist and certified neonatal therapist, she is president and founder of the National Association of Neonatal Therapists (NANT), where she uses a blend of clinical expertise, innovation, and leadership to support the advancement of this specialized field on a global level. Sue is the media expert in neonatal therapy for the American Occupational Therapy Association, a member of the steering committee for the National Coalition for Infant Health, and a medical advisory board member for Hope for HIE.
She has received the Laura Edmunds Lectureship Award from UMass Memorial Medical Center, the Individual Contribution to Maternal and Child Health Award from the National Perinatal Association, the Entreleadership Momentum Award from Ramsey Solutions, and the Alumni Professional Achievement Award from Eastern Kentucky University. She has also been named a Graham's Foundation Resilience Honoree. Sue's book Tiny Humans, Big Lessons: How the NICU Taught Me to Live With Energy, Intention, and Purpose was published in 2022 by Page Two. Today, Sue lives in Cincinnati, Ohio, with her husband and a few dogs and has two grown children.
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- Robin Colucci’s Book: How to Write a Book That Sells You: Increase Your Credibility, Income, and Impact
When you are choosing how to publish your book, you need to make a strategic decision. In this episode with Trena White, learn about an exciting new publishing option. Plus, listen in as we chat about the realities of book marketing and publishing for authors. Arm yourself with the knowledge to make your book a success from Trena’s valuable insight as a 15-year publishing insider!
Key Takeaways from This Episode
- Author and publisher earning percentage and distribution after book sales
- 2 unique paths of sales and distributions on Page Two
- The biggest mistake an author can make after publishing a book and how to avoid it
- Importance of clarifying the primary goals of a book with an author
- Why you should have a solid relationship with your business partners
Resources Mentioned in this episode
- The Coaching Habit by Michael Bungay Stanler | Kindle and Paperback
- Exactly What to Say by Phil M. Jones | Kindle and Paperback
- Box of Crayons
- Macmillan
- The Road Less Traveled by M. Scott Peck | Paperback
- Chicken Soup for the Soul by Jack Canfield, Mark Victor Hansen, and Amy Newmark | Paperback and Kindle
- You Are a Badass by Jen Sincero | Paperback and Kindle
- Rich Dad Poor Dad by Robert Kiyosaki | Paperback
- The 5 Love Languages by Gary Chapman | Kindle and Paperback
About Trena White
Trena White is a veteran book publisher and co-founder of the innovative book publishing firm Page Two, which publishes non-fiction books by leading experts. Page Two has published several books selling over a million copies, and its books have been translated into dozens of languages around the world. Trena and her co-founder were shortlisted for the RBC Women of Influence Award for being trailblazers in their field. Before launching Page Two, she was publisher of Douglas & McIntyre and Greystone Books, Canada’s largest independent book publisher at the time, and an editor at McClelland & Stewart, now an imprint of Penguin Random House. She is an adjunct professor in publishing at Simon Fraser University.
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Writing a book can be daunting, especially for new writers, so we invited experienced author Joe Saul-Sehy to help aspiring authors streamline the process of book writing and marketing. He also shares tips for developing a compelling topic so you can take a step closer to fulfilling your dream of being an author!
Key Takeaways from This Episode
- An important question to ask yourself before writing a book
- Why you should buy books in a physical store rather than online
- Significance of reading books and watching movies as a writer
- Effective ways to jumpstart your book-writing process
- Tips for condensing an overwritten book draft
- Reasons book marketing is a must for authors
Resources Mentioned in this episode
- Stacked by Joe Saul-Sehy and Emily Guy Birken | Kindle and Hardcover
- The Hardy Boys' Detective Handbook by Franklin Dixon | Hardcover
- Who Thought This Was a Good Idea? by Alyssa Mastromonaco | Kindle and Paperback
- List of books by author Howard Stern
- The Stacking Benjamins Show
- On Writing by Stephen King | Kindle and Paperback
- Stephanie Plum One, Two, Three by Janet Evanovich | Kindle
- I Will Teach You to Be Rich by Ramit Sethi | Paperback
- Nike
About Joe Saul-Sehy
Joe is the creator and co-host of the Stacking Benjamins podcast and co-author of STACKED: Your Super-Serious Guide To Modern Money Management (Avery, imprint of PRH, 2021). While Joe’s “money expert story” includes being a former financial advisor and representing American Express and Ameriprise in the media, his real story is how he was a money disaster in his early life, pulled his financial house into order, and left his business at age 40 to pursue an entirely different path. Joe was the “Money Man” at Detroit television WXYZ-TV, appearing twice weekly. His advice has appeared in Bride, Best Life, and Child magazines, the Los Angeles Times, Chicago Sun-Times, Detroit News, and Baltimore Sun newspapers. He’s also appeared online in more than 200 different places, including CNBC.com and WSJ.com. The Stacking Benjamins Show was called the “Best Personal Finance Podcast” by Kiplinger. Lifehacker listed the show as one of the top 10 of 2021. Joe and the SB team have won five Plutus Awards and the Academy of Podcasters “Best Business Podcast” award.
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- Robin Colucci’s Book: How to Write a Book That Sells You: Increase Your Credibility, Income, and Impact
Carol Ford joins us in today’s episode to share her dedication and passion for writing as one of the authors of Bob Crane: The Definitive Biography. Listen in as we talk about her experiences in researching the behind-the-scenes details and discovering Bob’s complete life story from those who knew him better than most.
Key Takeaways from This Episode
- Importance of asking for family's approval before writing a biography
- Process and challenges of writing Bob Crane’s biography
- Why you shouldn't make assumptions without gathering facts
- The shocking truths behind the private life and passions of Bob Crane
- Significance of verifying information before publishing them
Resources Mentioned in this episode
- Bob Crane by Carol M. Ford, Dee Young, and Linda J. Groundwater | Paperback
- Hogan’s Heroes
- The Offer
- The Godfather
- Auto Focus
- WICC 600
- Liberty Aviation Museum
- Homicide Hunter
- Mid-Atlantic Nostalgia Convention
- Celebrity Cooks
About Carol Ford
Carol is the CEO and owner of Carol M Ford Productions, LLC, which provides individuals, organizations, and businesses with podcasting, voiceover, and video production services. She currently produces several of her own podcasts: Flipside: The True Story of Bob Crane, Ye Olde Terror Inn, and 'Hogan's Heroes' Revue.
Carol is the primary author of Bob Crane: The Definitive Biography and, along with her coauthors, is one of Bob Crane’s official biographers.
She earned her BA degree with Honors in English/Liberal Arts from Glassboro State College (now Rowan University) in Glassboro, New Jersey. She is Senior Director, Editorial Services; an editor; and a managing editor for Anthony J. Jannetti, Inc. (AJJ), a healthcare association management, marketing, and publishing firm.
In 2018, Carol published Golden Linings: Tiny Tales about Pets, for Pets, through which her author profits benefit animals in need. This led to the subsequent publication of Golden Linings 2: More Tiny Tales about Pets, for Pets in 2019 and Golden Linings 3: Even More Tiny Tales about Pets, for Pets in 2020, which also raise money for animal rescue organizations and shelters.
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Get answers to all your legal questions and copyright issues when it comes to publishing your book in today’s episode with Atty. Elissa Hecker. Elissa shares her extensive experience in contracts, licensing, copyright law, and all the technical aspects of business affairs. Stay tuned to make sure you protect yourself, your business, and your intellectual property!
Key Takeaways from This Episode
- Things every author should know before writing a book
- Consequences of signing a contract without fully understanding it
- What are the exclusive rights covered by a Copyright law?
- Effective strategies for utilizing intellectual properties
- How and why you should cite sources properly
- Significance of having priorities before entering an agreement with a publisher
Resources Mentioned in this episode
- David Wise
- Kiss My Tiara by Susan Jane Gilman | Paperback and Kindle
- Undress Me in the Temple of Heaven by Susan Jane Gilman | Paperback and Kindle
About Atty. Elissa Hecker
Elissa is an attorney who acts as general counsel to creatives, small businesses, solopreneurs, and entrepreneurs in their legal and business affairs issues. She helps guide her author and illustrator clients through the thought process of what they want (and what they don't want) and helps them negotiate publishing and collaboration agreements so that they can protect their intellectual property and other interests. For more information, visit www.eheckeresq.com.
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Did you know a good book is the key to pursuing your life’s true calling? Listen in on Genevieve Piturro’s heartwarming journey of finding her purpose and how she passed on the spark of passion to her readers with her book, Purpose, Passion, and Pajamas. Dive in and ignite your connection to others in this episode!
Key Takeaways from This Episode
- How a writer cultivates connection with words
- Significance of finding the right people to support your dream of being an author
- The role of luck and timing in releasing your book
- Charitable initiatives that the Purpose, Passion, and Pajamas created
- The power of support in an author’s decision-making process
Resources Mentioned in this episode
- US Emergency Shelters
- Purpose, Passion, and Pajamas by Genevive Piturro | Kindle and Paperback
- Bob Proctor
- Maybe Next Week
About Genevieve Piturro
Once a successful TV executive, Genevieve found her purpose when a 6-yr old girl’s question rocked her life, and she jumped off the corporate ladder. Piturro founded the non-profit Pajama Program, which in 2022, celebrated its 21st anniversary, having delivered more than 7 MILLION new pajamas and new books to children through 43 chapters across the U.S. Genevieve is a professional speaker and purpose consultant. She shares life and leadership lessons from her award-winning Amazon best-seller, Purpose, Passion, and Pajamas: How to Transform Your Life, Embrace the Human Connection and Lead with Meaning.Genevieve most recently has been interviewed by OPRAH, The TODAY Show, GMA, The Early Show, CNN, and Fox & Friends. She also has appeared in The Wall Street Journal, O Magazine, Forbes, and Parenting Magazine.
Website: Pajama Program
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Today's guest, Matt McWilliams, will teach us a rewarding approach to generating income as we explore affiliate marketing, how to use your disadvantages to stand out, and the values you can gain from reading his book. So, if you want to create a good income doing what you love, this episode is perfect for you.
Key Takeaways from This Episode
- How to turn disadvantages into advantages
- A story behind “TheAffiliateGuy” podcast
- The ripple effect of helping other people
- Importance of embracing your heroic role
- Reasons why affiliate marketing is effective
- The power of believing in yourself
Resources Mentioned in this episode
- Turn Your Passions into Profits by Matt McWilliams | Kindle and Hardcover
- Great By Choice by Jim Collins | Kindle and Hardcover
- passionsintoprofitsbook.com/robin
About Matt McWilliams
Matt McWilliams is a four-time affiliate manager of the year. He helps online business owners make money as an affiliate and leverage the power of affiliate partners to grow their businesses. Entrepreneurs and companies such as Tony Robbins and Dean Graziosi, Shark Tank's Kevin Harrington, Stu McLaren, Adidas, Ryan Levesque, Lewis Howes, Shutterfly, Michael Hyatt, and Jeff Walker have trusted Matt McWilliams to run their affiliate programs and coach their affiliate teams. He is the host of The Affiliate Guy Podcast, the #1 affiliate marketing podcast where you can find affiliate marketing news, tips, and strategies to take your online business to the next level. His upcoming book, Turn Your Passions into Profits: The Proven Path for Building a Rewarding Online Business, offers step-by-step guidance for turning your passions into a profitable and lasting business.
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If you're a first-time author looking to publish your debut book, here's an episode tailored for you! In this episode, business consultant and established author Alain Hunkins takes us through the hardships of publishing his first book and how it impacted his business. Tune in to learn about the process of publishing and marketing a book and uncover a book's true return on investments.
Key Takeaways from This Episode
- A writer’s first book struggles
- Why you shouldn’t pay your literary agent a monthly retainer
- How to leverage your expertise to market your book
- Business value-adds and opportunities your published book can give you
- Powerful advice for first time authors
- The focus and dedication necessary for a writer
Resources Mentioned in this episode
- Daniel H. Pink
- Marshall Goldsmith
- The Leadership Challenge Book by Barry Posner | Kindle, Paperback, and Hardcover
- Danny Meyer
- Wiley
About Alain Hunkins
ALAIN HUNKINS helps high achieving people become high achieving leaders. Over his twenty-five-year career, Alain has worked with over 2,000 groups of leaders in 27 countries, including 42 of the Fortune 100 companies. In addition to being a leadership speaker, consultant, trainer, and coach, Alain is the author of the book CRACKING THE LEADERSHIP CODE: Three Secrets to Building Strong Leaders (published by Wiley, March 2020).
Alain is a faculty member of Duke Corporate Education and serves on the Academic Board of Advisors for the New Delhi Institute of Management. Alain’s work has been featured in Chief Executive, Fast Company, Inc., Training Magazine, Chief Learning Officer, and Business Insider. He’s also a regular leadership strategy contributor to Forbes. Alain was recently named #33 on the Global Power list of the Top 200 Biggest Voices in Leadership for 2022 by LeadersHum. A father of two teenagers, he lives in Northampton, Massachusetts.
LinkedIn: Alain Hunkins
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For the first time on our show, we focus on the thrilling and fascinating true crime genre with guest, Sarena Straus. Listen in to discover how her real-life experiences as a prosecutor inspired her debut as an author and what it’s like to write and transition from nonfiction to fiction. Press play to learn more about it!
Key Takeaways from This Episode
- What makes a true crime memoir special
- A tremendous benefit of writing a memoir
- Behind the scenes of pitching a book for a television pilot
- Spot-on advice for new and fresh true crime authors
- Why it’s critical to be well informed when writing true crime
Resources Mentioned in This Episode
ReInception by Sarena Straus | Paperback and Audiobook
About Sarena Straus
Sarena Straus writes novels for the curious and adventurous, for people who are intrigued by a “what-if” scenario and like to explore the outcomes. After receiving a BA in art history and political science from Barnard, Sarena graduated from Fordham University School of Law. She then worked for five years at the Bronx District Attorney’s Office (BXDA), where she prosecuted sex crimes and child abuse cases. After leaving BXDA, she published a true-crime memoir, Bronx DA: True Stories from the Sex Crimes and Domestic Violence Unit (Barricade, 2006). In 2010, her book sold as a TV Pilot to CBS/Paramount.
Today, she lives in Hudson Valley, NY, with her husband, two children (also budding writers), two naughty Labrador retrievers, and two barn cats. She is now working on sequels to her debut sci-fi novel ReInception. When not writing or lawyering, Sarena loves to scuba dive, take photographs, and travel off the beaten path. She’ll swap diving or courtroom stories with you all day long or happily talk about books– writing them or reading them!
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As we uncover the true meaning and value of surrender, discover how to harness the power of self-amendments and why it's important to embrace life as it is in this conversation with an established author, Kute Blackson. Join us to learn the benefits of surrendering, the origin of his book, and discover a unique perspective of following the leading of life. Stay tuned!
Key Takeaways from This Episode
- The birth of new humanity in response to the world adversities
- What should be the basis of real freedom?
- A way to embrace the nature of life
- How to condition yourself to fully embrace the authentic energy of life
- Why mastery and expertise are important in writing a book
- The difference between surrender and acceptance
About Kute Blackson
KUTE BLACKSON is a beloved inspirational speaker and transformational teacher. He speaks at countless events he organizes around the world as well as at outside events including A-Fest, YPO (Young Presidents’ Organization), and EO (Entrepreneurs’ Organization). He is a member of the Transformational Leadership Council, a select group of one hundred of the world’s foremost authorities in the personal development industry. Winner of the 2019 Unity New Thought Walden Award, Blackson is widely considered a next generation leader in the field of personal development. His mission is simple: To awaken and inspire people across the planet to access inner freedom, live authentically and fulfill their true life’s purpose. Blackson has authored two books: The Magic of Surrender: Finding the Courage to Let Go (TarcherPerigree, imprint of Penguin Random House) and You Are the One: A Bold Adventure in Finding Purpose, Discovering the Real You, and Loving Fully (Gallery Books, Simon & Schuster).
We are in the midst of the greatest spiritual revolution the world has ever seen.
What are you waiting for?
Contorting self—a lot of people feeling powerless these days..
Power of surrender
- Website: Kute Blackson
- Podcast: SoulTalk
- Instagram: @kuteblackson
- Facebook: Kute Blackson
Join Kute in a 12-day Bali adventure while experiencing a combination of thrill, travel, teaching, and growth. Apply here https://www.boundlessblissbali.com/!
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It’s incredible to have David Page share his story as a journalist and television show producer and why he wanted to write a book about American food history. Listen to this episode as we chat about his remarkable experiences and how his passion for writing introduced cultures beyond food recipes!
Key Takeaways from This Episode
- The real reason why things fail or succeed
- Why everyone should read books about food and cuisine
- Writing prose vs. writing for television
- How Food Americana tells intriguing and valuable topics
- A creative way of structuring and writing a book
Resources Mentioned in This Episode
Adventures in the Screen Trade by William Goldman | Paperback and Kindle
About David Page
Two-time Emmy winner David Page changed the world of food television by creating, developing, and executive-producing the groundbreaking show Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives. Before that, as a network news producer based in London, Frankfurt, and Budapest, he traveled Europe, Africa, and the Middle East doing two things: covering some of the biggest stories in the world and developing a passion for some of the world’s most incredible food.
Page walked through Checkpoint Charlie into East Berlin the night the Berlin wall opened, but his favorite memory of the eastern side before reunification remains the weisswurst sold under the S-Bahn elevated train. He was first served couscous by Moammar Khaddafy’s kitchen staff while waiting in a tent to interview the dictator in Libya. Blood oranges at a three o’clock breakfast with Yasser Arafat. Wild boar prosciutto in Rome. Bouillabaisse in Marseille. Cheese pies in Tbilisi. Venison in Salzburg. Nonstop caviar in Moscow. He even managed to slip a few food features in between the headline stories, such as a profile of Germany’s leading food critic, which turned out not to be the oxymoron one might assume.
Once back in the states, Page has pursued his passion both personally and professionally. Show-producing Good Morning America, he was involved in a substantial amount of food coverage, including cooking segments by Emeril Lagasse. Creating Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives and hands-on producing its first eleven seasons took him deep into the world of American food—its vast variations, its history, its evolution, and especially the dedicated cooks and chefs keeping it vibrant. His next series, the syndicated Beer Geeks, dove deep into the intersection of great beer and great food. It is those experiences, that education, and the discovery of little-known stories and facts that led Page to dig even deeper and tie the strands together in his book, Food Americana.
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Revitalize your future by enjoying a happier and healthier life when you tune in to this episode with Certified Personal Trainer Allan Misner. Join us as he shares what you need to write a good book, slow your aging, and live in your prime, even in the later part of life.
Key Takeaways from This Episode
- Allan's motivations for writing a health and fitness book
- Challenges of writing a fitness book and ways to overcome them
- Steps to achieving business and authorship success
- Why you should be committed to achieving your fitness goals
- The essence of seeking help when you need it
About Allan Misner
Coach Allan is a National Academy of Sports Medicine (NASM) Certified Personal Trainer, a Precision Nutrition Level 1 Coach, and a Functional Aging Institute (FAI) Certified Functional Aging Specialist. He earned specialties in Fitness Nutrition, Corrective Exercise, Behavior Change, Performance Enhancement, and Online Personal Training.
Coach Allan is the creator of the thriving 40+ Fitness Community, providing online one-on-one and group nutrition and fitness coaching for clients over 40.
He is the host of the 40+ Fitness Podcast, for which he has interviewed hundreds of health and wellness experts with a wide range of specialties.
He is also the author of The Wellness Roadmap: a Straightforward Guide to Health and Fitness After 40. This book puts you on the path to getting the body you want and living the life you deserve.
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Marketing expert Ali Schwanke joins us in today's episode to talk about tips that simplify modern content marketing for authors and help pave their path to success. Tune in to find a way to be memorable and actionable and make your book stand out in the marketplace.
Key Takeaways from This Episode
- Psychological factors influencing your effectiveness as a marketer
- Creative marketing ideas to make your content stand out
- Writing a book vs. writing for social media
- The importance of supporting your beliefs with conviction
- Social media marketing: Problems and solutions
Resources Mentioned in This Episode
- Evernote
- 1000 True Fans by Jon Longhurst
- Hard Work Is Not Enough by Jeff Shannon | Paperback and Kindle
- YouTube
About Ali Schwanke
Ali Schwanke is the founder of Simple Strat, a platinum HubSpot Solutions marketing agency partner and cohost of the popular YouTube series "HubSpot Hacks." She's a go-to expert in B2B marketing strategy and content and a well-known expert on all things HubSpot or marketing technology. She and her team are known for their no-BS, business case first, software second approach, which makes her and her team a valuable resource for CEOs down to the sales rep. She's also a national marketing advisor for Vistage International, a former American Marketing Association board member, and a 2022 virtual speaker at MarTech.org.
- Website: Simple Strat
- LinkedIn: Ali Schwanke
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We're thrilled to have Mark Herschberg back on the show to chat with us about the future of content and how writers can deal with the various challenges of marketing their work. So listen in to hear relevant information you need to start bringing buzz around your brand and content.
Key Takeaways from This Episode
- The definition of books, content, and authors throughout time
- Issues authors face when creating and selling content on social media
- Key pieces to promote your content easily
- Advantages of using the Brain Bump app
- Most helpful feature of Brain Bump
Resources Mentioned in This Episode
- The Book of Theseus: When is a Book Not a Book?
- I Love Lucy
- TikTok
About Mark Herschberg
From tracking criminals and terrorists on the dark web to creating marketplaces and new authentication systems, Mark has spent his career launching and developing new ventures at startups and Fortune 500s and in academia, with over a dozen patents to his name.
He helped to start the Undergraduate Practice Opportunities Program, dubbed MIT's "career success accelerator," where he teaches annually. At MIT, he received a B.S. in physics, a B.S. in electrical engineering & computer science, and an M.Eng. in electrical engineering & computer science, focusing on cryptography.
At Harvard Business School, Mark helped create a platform used to teach finance at prominent business schools. He also works with many non-profits, currently serving on the board of Plant A Million Corals. He was one of the top-ranked ballroom dancers in the country and now lives in New York City, where he is known for his social gatherings, including his annual Halloween party, as well as his diverse cufflink collection.
- Website: Brain Bump
- Mark's Book: The Career Toolkit
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Discover Steve Harrison’s secrets to gaining big-time publicity when you tune in to today’s episode as we chat about the National Publicity Summit and his expert networking tips. Listen until the end to learn how to utilize your book as a brand-building tool so you can land significant media coverage today!
Key Takeaways from This Episode
- National Publicity Summit: What it is and what you can learn from it
- Best follow-up advice to pique the media's interest
- Why you should make media connections even before writing your book
- Powerful tips to make your book a New York Times Best Seller
- Tools and resources to help you promote your book like a pro
Resources Mentioned in This Episode
- BookCon
- The 4-Hour Workweek by Tim Ferris
- Chicken Soup for the Soul by Jack Canfield and Mark Victor Hansen | Paperback and Kindle
- The Road Less Traveled by M. Scott Peck | Paperback and Kindle
- You Are a Badass by Jen Sincero | Paperback and Kindle
About Steve Harrison
Ever wonder how books like Chicken Soup for the Soul, Men are From Mars, Women Are From Venus and Rich Dad Poor Dad became the perennial bestsellers that they are? What if I told you they all have one man in common, that that guy is here with us today?
For the past 40 years, Steve Harrison and his brother, Bill Harrison, have helped authors, experts, entrepreneurs, non-profit organizations, public relations pros, and others score more media coverage.
Their company, Bradley Communications Corp, has helped over 15,000 authors write and/or promote their books. His clients have been featured in major media outlets like Good Morning America, The Today Show, CNN, MSNBC, The View, Fox News, Entrepreneur, New York Times, O the Oprah Magazine, Time, and countless radio shows.
How do they do it? Well, two ways. One is through their publication, RTIR, which provides all the insider info you need to connect with the right shows at the right time, and the other way, and what we will focus on today, is through their National Publicity Summit, a conference during which attendees have the chance to learn from and personally meet top journalists and producers. Previous Publicity Summit participants have been featured on or in such major media as ABC's The View, Today Show, Parade, Fox News Channel, Dateline NBC, 48 Hours, Family Circle, Parents, People magazine, ABC Radio Network, Health magazine, Time magazine, New York Post, Good Housekeeping, MSNBC, and many others.
Steve graduated from Davidson College, but he was first bitten by the media bug in high school while working as a freelance writer for the local newspaper.
Website: National Publicity Summit
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Explore the transformative power of storytelling with Melanie Hicks in today's episode as we look into writing as an outlet for your emotions, her new venture, Ink Elephant, plus tips to bring your story to life in a way that amplifies its impact. So tune in and learn how you can make your story worth telling.
Key Takeaways from This Episode
- 2 hurdles you need to overcome to write a compelling book
- Why it's important to acknowledge the different chapters of your life
- How does writing affect your mental health?
- The role of writing in addressing social issues
- Helpful advice for aspiring writers
Resources Mentioned in This Episode
- Ep. 18 InPursuit of DEI & Belonging with Crystal Whiteaker
- The Artist's Way by Julia Cameron | Paperback and Kindle
About Melanie Hicks
Melanie Hicks is a work lifecycle expert focused on education, nonprofit and small business trends. With more than two decades of experience, she has worked with more than 100 clients.
In addition to her consulting work through her company, InPursuit, Dr. Hicks is an awarded author and grant writer with more than 20 years of writing experience; business cases, speech writing, sales copy, and more than $90M in grants, and most recently, her first full-length manuscript.
She has been published in numerous magazines and websites, including Forbes.com, Ellevate Network, Authority Magazine, and others.
But today, she is here to speak with us about her latest venture, Inked Elephant, a boutique publishing firm with a mission to tell 10,000 stories by 2025 and create a positive social impact. Today, we talk about her mission and the importance of storytelling for self-awareness and healing for both the author and the reader.
Website: Inked Elephant Publishing | InPursuit Research
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Join us for another one of our limited edition Robin’s Riff episodes as we chat about why you should stop waiting for the “perfect time” to start writing your book and how you can recognize the right timing to publish your book based on the market’s interest. Tune in and learn how to find the time to write despite your busy life!
Key Takeaways from This Episode
- Why there’s never a perfect time to start a book
- Psychological factors that stop you from writing a book
- Reasons NOT to write a book
- The importance of being intentional when writing and publishing your book
Resources Mentioned in This Episode
- Imposter Syndrome
- The Time Cleanse: Steven Griffith Shares How You Can Overcome The Oldest Excuse In The Book For Why You Aren’t Writing
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Bill Murphy joins us in today’s episode to share his inspiring story about overcoming adversities in life, recognizing your self-worth, and how you can do the same. So tune in and learn actionable tips to set yourself up for success!
Key Takeaways from This Episode
- Benefits of practicing a gratitude mindset
- Powerful advice to help you understand yourself better
- How to establish healthy habits
- Valuable lessons from mistakes and experiencing trauma
- Challenges and benefits of writing a book about your life
About Bill Murphy
Growing up in a toxic and abusive home environment, Bill Murphy was constantly overwhelmed by fear and doubt. Nevertheless, he was motivated to show those around him that he could accomplish what he set out to do in spite of being verbally and physically knocked down.
Bill believes that when the storm hits, you have three choices: give up and become a victim; do what you can to survive or learn to thrive. You don’t need to have exceptional talents or resources to overcome adversity, be resilient, and achieve extraordinary goals. You are capable of more than you realize. You can learn to thrive. Bill Murphy is proof.
Bill will be the first to tell you he is nothing special, but he’s been able to overcome an abusive childhood, post-traumatic stress (PTSD), mental health challenges, and unexpected crises to finish an Ironman earn a black belt in Krav Maga, and run the Boston Marathon five times—including one on crutches. He’s a regular guy who is now thriving at the top of his profession, too. Through his debut release, Thriving in the Storm: Nine Principles to Help You Overcome Any Adversity, he seeks to explain how anyone can achieve similar success.
Outside of writing, Bill is also a nationally recognized mortgage originator who has closed over one and a half billion dollars in loans and a top producer for 25 years. He has raised over $500,000 for the Make-A-Wish-Foundation, and actively supports a number of charities, including Fairway Cares, The American Warrior Initiative, and the Dana Farber Cancer Institute. He is the founder of the nonprofit Thrive Foundation.
Bill’s Book: Thriving in the Storm: Nine Principles to Help You Overcome Any Adversity
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Learn about non-fiction and mystery fiction in today’s episode with established author Cecelia Tichi. Don’t miss our chat about how to relate your writing to your target market and some snippets from her best-selling series, the “Val and Roddy DeVere Gilded Series.”
Key Takeaways from This Episode
- The correlation between non-fiction and mystery fiction
- Challenges to writing mystery fiction books and series
- How to efficiently incorporate history in your fiction book
- The impact of literary theory in writing and reading
- Why authors need to understand the real meaning of entertainment
Resources Mentioned in This Episode
- The Call of the Wild by Jack London | Paperback and Kindle
- The Devil in the White City by Erik Larson | Paperback and Kindle
- How to Write a Book That Sells You by Robin Colucci | Paperback and Kindle
- One Fish Two Fish Red Fish Blue Fish by Dr. Seuss | Paperback and Kindle
About Cecelia Tichi
A native of Steel City, Pittsburgh, Cecelia Tichi is an award-winning author and faculty member at Vanderbilt University, where she is the Gertrude Conaway Vanderbilt Professor of English and American Studies emerita. Her books span American literature and culture from colonial days to modern times, more recently focused on the 1870-1914 Gilded Age that prompted her book on Jack London and another on seven activists in that tumultuous era. Tichi’s What Would Mrs. Astor Do? A Complete Guide to the Manners and Mores of the Gilded Age (2018) segues to her new mystery series, the “Val and Roddy DeVere Gilded Series,” starting with A Gilded Death, together with *Murder, Murder, Murder in Gilded Central Park, and A Fatal Gilded High Note—and this fall, A Deadly Gilded Free Fall. Cecelia is at work on a fifth historical mystery in the series, “A Gilded Drowning Pool.” She enjoys membership and posting in Facebook’s The Gilded Age Society. Cecelia’s books have been reviewed in the New York Times, The Wall Street Journal, Publisher’s Weekly,* and elsewhere.
Tichi is the Gertrude Conaway Vanderbilt Professor of English and American Studies at Vanderbilt University, a past president of the American Studies Association, and the Jay B. Hubbell Medal winner for lifetime achievement in American literature. She regularly talks at the American Studies Association annual meetings, colleges and universities, and book fairs. She has been interviewed on radio and television and has spoken to book clubs, church, and synagogue groups and audiences of well over one thousand persons. Listed in Who’s Who, she held the honorific Chair of Modern Culture at the John W. Kluge Center at the Library of Congress in 2005-07 and, in 2012, was named the Andrew W. Mellon Fellow at the Huntington Library (San Marino, California).
- Website: Cecelia Tichi
- Cecelia’s Books: Author Cecelia Tichi Gilded Age Books
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- Robin Colucci’s Book: How to Write a Book That Sells You: Increase Your Credibility, Income, and Impact
Check out this episode with best-selling science fiction author Gary F. Bengier as we dive into the editing and marketing process of writing a novel, why he chose to be an indie author, and some sneak peeks into his book Unfettered Journey. Don’t miss our multilayered conversation to sharpen your writing abilities and broaden your thinking today.
Key Takeaways from This Episode
- Challenges in writing science fiction novels and the future of technology
- Expert advice for cohesive and better writing
- Should you write from one or more characters’ points of view?
- Tips for developing well-rounded characters
- Marketing platforms and advice you should know about
- Pros and cons of self-publishing your book
Resources Mentioned in This Episode
- Google Glass
- Qualia
- Moby Dick by Herman Melville
- Scrivener
- Microsoft Word
- Editorial Freelancers Association
- Adobe Premiere Pro
- WordPress
- KDP Select
- IngramSpark
- Smashwords
- Barnes & Noble
- Dune by Frank Herbert | Paperback and Kindle
About Gary F. Bengier
Gary F. Bengier is a writer, philosopher, technologist, and author of the bestselling sci-fi novel Unfettered Journey. He grew up in the small Midwest town of Richmond, Ohio, playing in unfettered woods, developing an early love for nature, and learning self-reliance. He is a Kent State University undergrad hooked on astronomy, and his fascination with science drew him to California’s tech industry, which led him to become eBay’s Chief Financial Officer.
A polymath, Gary has an MBA from Harvard Business School and an MA degree in philosophy from San Francisco State University. Gary lives in San Francisco with his wife, Cynthia. When he isn’t traveling the world, he raises bees and makes a nice Cabernet at the family’s Napa vineyard.
- Website: Gary F. Bengier
- Gary’s Book: Unfettered Journey by Gary F. Bengier
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Criminal defense lawyer Alexandra Shapiro joins us in today’s episode to share her fiction-writing journey and discoveries as a practicing lawyer. Keep listening to learn more about the value of constructive criticism for better writing, plus her novel Presumed Guilty.
Key Takeaways from This Episode
- How novels creatively portray the reality of criminal cases
- The process, challenges, and joys of writing a novel
- Valuable lessons from Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg
- Presumed Guilty: What it’s about, and who are the main characters?
- Why feedback is necessary to improve your writing
Resources Mentioned in This Episode
- Ruth Bader Ginsburg
- Creator Institute
About Alexandra Shapiro
Alexandra Shapiro is a criminal defense lawyer and one of the leading appellate lawyers in the United States. She was one of Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg’s first clerks on the Supreme Court, served as a federal prosecutor in Manhattan, and later founded an elite litigation “boutique” firm, Shapiro Arato Bach LLP, which handles many high-profile cases.
In early 2021, Alexandra embarked on a new journey — fiction writing. She wanted to raise awareness about problems with the criminal justice system and how sometimes even innocent people can get unfairly prosecuted in the United States. Her novel, Presumed Guilty, shows how the system does not always function properly, even for those with significant financial resources, let alone the numerous criminal defendants who face the challenge of prosecution with little to no resources. The book has received acclaim by reviewers in the New Your Law Journal, Forbes, and Kirkus and was an “Editor’s Pick” in Publisher’s Weekly’s BookLife Reviews.
Alexandra, a native New Yorker, has three children. She lives in Manhattan with her husband (another criminal defense lawyer) and is an avid photographer.
- Website: Shapiro Arato Bach
- Alexandra’s Book: Presumed Guilty: A Novel
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- Robin Colucci’s Book: How to Write a Book That Sells You: Increase Your Credibility, Income, and Impact
Understand and harness the power of your book before you even write it as we chat about how to guide your writing so you can create content to help you achieve bigger goals. Tune in to today’s special episode to leave a legacy you can be proud of!
Key Takeaways from This Episode
- Common author misconceptions about book sales and marketing
- Why addressing these queries is vital before starting a book
- Five questions to ask yourself before writing a book and why
- The advantages of effectively utilizing your book
Resource Mentioned in This Episode
How to Write a Book That Sells You by Robin Colucci | Paperback and Kindle
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- Robin Colucci’s Book: How to Write a Book That Sells You: Increase Your Credibility, Income, and Impact
Dana Kaye, a lifelong entrepreneur and author, joins us today as we answer some of authors’ frequently asked questions about book marketing and publicity. Keep tuning in to discover how social media platforms can be your driving force to becoming a best-selling author.
Key Takeaways from This Episode
- Innovative platforms to help you promote your book
- Best ways to determine your target readers and market to them
- 3-point formula for a book’s success
- Challenges of book advertising during and after the lockdown
- The role of social media in boosting your sales
- How efficient are social media advertisements in book promotion?
Resources Mentioned in This Episode
- Your Breakout Book
- Goodreads
- TikTok
- BookTok
- Snapchat
- BookBub
- Crowdcast
- Zoom
- The School for Good Mothers by Jessamine Chan | Paperback and Kindle
About Dana Kaye
Dana earned her B.A. in Fiction Writing from Columbia College Chicago. After college, she worked as a freelance writer and book critic. This experience provided necessary industry insight and, combined with her early adoption of social media, paved the way to launch Kaye Publicity. Known for her innovative ideas and knowledge of current trends, she’s a frequently sought-out speaker and media source. She was profiled in Crain’s Chicago Business for her success in launching a business during a recession, was a Publishers Weekly Star Watch honoree, and has been interviewed by dozens of media outlets on book publicity and online marketing, and the future of publishing. Dana is also the co-founder of the Midwest Mystery Conference (formerly Murder and Mayhem in Chicago) and the author of Your Book, Your Brand: The Step-By-Step Guide to Launching Your Book and Boosting Your Sales.
- Website: Kaye Publicity | Midwest Mystery Conference
- Dana’s Book: Your Book, Your Brand: The Step-By-Step Guide to Launching Your Book and Boosting Your Sales
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- Robin Colucci’s Book: How to Write a Book That Sells You: Increase Your Credibility, Income, and Impact
In today’s episode, best-selling author Dennis Galloway delves deeper into the conscious and subconscious parts of the mind as he talks about the impact of storytelling on personal growth. Listen in and embark on your journey to a dynamic future!
Key Takeaways from This Episode
- How to overcome fear and build your self-confidence
- Subtle ways to incorporate metaphors in your writing
- Why you should listen to your instincts
- The two ways the world works for people and how it affects their experiences
- Tools and processes for self-improvement
Resources Mentioned in This Episode
- The Pen: Sultan’s Wisdom by Dennis Galloway | Paperback and Kindle
- The Hero’s Journey by Joseph Campbell | Paperback and Kindle
- The Pen: Knights Templar Treasure by Dennis Galloway
- Love Happenz
About Dennis Galloway
Dennis Galloway is the author of the immersive, # 1 best-selling fantasy and adventure fiction novel, The Pen, Sultan’s Wisdom, and has been writing intriguing and exciting stories since the age of 8 years old.
Growing up with an active, vivid imagination and having lived and traveled around the world, experiencing many cultures, he has honed his experiences to create exciting fiction for children and adults, as well as documentaries, videos, and a wide range of other media experiences.
He is inspired to help people realize how their choices create their future-- good or bad. He believes if people knew they had the power within to make a difference, it would change their lives for the better.
- Website: Dennis Galloway | Master Mindset Life
- Dennis’ Books on Amazon: Dennis Galloway
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- Robin Colucci’s Book: How to Write a Book That Sells You: Increase Your Credibility, Income, and Impact
Discover the power of meaningful stories in evoking empathy and positively impacting society’s public discourse in today’s episode with Lars Emmerich. Stay tuned to improve your emotional intelligence as we share insights on how to act in good faith and become a purposeful author.
Key Takeaways from This Episode
- Causes of society’s broken public discourse
- How stories foster empathy and understanding
- What is the key to relating to characters in a story?
- Why you should avoid making assumptions based on bad faith
- Emotionally intelligent ways to deal with extreme feelings
Resources Mentioned in This Episode
Yellow journalism
About Lars Emmerich
Lars Emmerich is an entrepreneur, musician, investor, athlete, retired fighter pilot, and international #1 best-selling author. He lives with his family in Denver, Colorado, and is the author of the million-selling Sam Jameson series.
- Website: Lars Emmerich
- Lars’ Books on Amazon: Lars Emmerich
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- Robin Colucci’s Book: How to Write a Book That Sells You: Increase Your Credibility, Income, and Impact
Learn how to place yourself in front of your ideal audience and use the content you make to leverage every interview with top podcaster Jeremy Slate. Join us as we open a treasure trove of information about being a good guest and podcast promotion tips so you can create an impact through the power of appearing on podcasts today!
Key Takeaways from This Episode
- Podcast promotion: Factors and strategies to increase your listeners
- Tools and techniques to connect with potential podcast guests
- What is the definition of a successful podcast interview
- Best practices for promoting your book through podcasts
- Advice on how to write a good book
- The importance of working on improving your craft
Resources Mentioned in This Episode
- The 10x Rule by Grant Cordone | Kindle and Hardcover
- Apple Podcasts
- Hunter.io
- Contact Any Celebrity
- IMDbPro Official Site
- GetEmails
- by Jeremy Ryan Slate
- Anchor
- Fargo Rock City by Chuck Klosterman | Paperback and Kindle
- Killing Yourself to Live by Chuck Klosterman | Paperback and Kindle
- Sex, Drugs, and Cocoa Puffs by Chuck Klosterman | Paperback and Kindle
- So Good They Can't Ignore You by Cal Newport | Paperback and Kindle
- The Beatles: Get Back
- Outliers by Malcolm Gladwell | Paperback and Kindle
About Jeremy Slate
Jeremy Slate is the founder of the Create Your Own Life Podcast, which studies the highest performers in the world. He studied literature at Oxford University and specializes in podcasting and new media to create celebrities.
He was ranked #1 in iTunes New and #78 in the iTunes Top 100 and was named the #1 Podcast to Listen to by INC Magazine in 2019 and named a Top Influencer by Forbes. After his success in podcasting, Jeremy Slate and his wife, Brielle Slate, founded Command Your Brand to help entrepreneurs get their message out by appearing as guests on podcasts.
- Website: Command Your Brand Media
- Blog: Jeremy Ryan Slate
- Twitter: @JeremyRyanSlate
- LinkedIn: Jeremy Ryan Slate
- Jeremy’s Book: Unremarkable to Extraordinary: Ignite Your Passion to Go From Passive Observer to Creator of Your Own Life
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Charlie Fusco helps us connect the dots between our personal stories and business as she shares her expansive knowledge about the filmmaking industry and how authors can navigate its complexities while creating a meaningful impact. So press that play button to amplify your voice and bring your story to life right now!
Key Takeaways from This Episode
- The most popular streaming platforms for marketing your story
- Challenges authors face when adapting a novel to screenplay
- Why it’s vital to treat your writing like a business
- Reasons to choose your book’s target audience wisely
- Advice for authors who want to turn their books into films
- How to tell if your book would make a good movie
Resources Mentioned in This Episode
- YouTube
- The Offer
- Crimes of the Future
- Maid by Stephanie Land | Paperback and Kindle
About Charlie Fusco
Charlie Fusco has been involved in film production since she was six years old, working alongside her father on- and off-set, in editing rooms and funding meetings. She later completed formal training at Boston University and Northwestern University in writing, photography, directing, and art direction.
In 2018, she focused on starting and scaling TGC Worldwide, which manages personal brand evolutions. TGC has put clients on the NYT Bestseller lists, secured their movie deals, expanded their charities, and other achievements most think “impossible.” Her clients are looking to expand their impact on a global scale through philanthropic efforts, key collaborations, books, movies, one-of-a-kind events, and influential thought leadership.
Whether ghostwriting a book, directing documentaries, developing social media strategies, negotiating reality show deals, or directing a photoshoot - That Girl Charlie - still considers herself a master storyteller with a passion for putting more good into the world.
- Website: TGC Worldwide
- LinkedIn: Charlie Fusco Lit Agent / Exec. Producer
- Twitter: @CharlieFusco
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- Robin Colucci’s Book: How to Write a Book That Sells You: Increase Your Credibility, Income, and Impact
In this episode, internationally published poet Albert Flynn DeSilver chats with us about how you can start your creative writing journey and share your story with the world. Keep listening to learn resources and expert tips on becoming a mindful writer to unleash the creative writing genius within you today!
Key Takeaways from This Episode
- The impact of mindfulness and creativity in your writing
- Why is it important for writers to make time for writing and reading
- How do time and seasons relate to the process of writing
- Completing your first draft: Its importance and benefits
- The role of silence in writing
Resources Mentioned in This Episode
- Postmodern American Poetry: A Norton Anthology by Paul Hoover
- Tonight I’m Someone Else by Chelsea Hodson | Paperback and Kindle
- The Sonnets by Ted Berrigan | Paperback and Kindle
- Rumi’s Poetry
- The Artist’s Way by Julia Cameron | Paperback and Kindle
Be one of the first 10 listeners to get a FREE 30-minute creative writing strategy/coaching call with Albert when you go to https://www.calendly.com/asisowl/30min. Albert’s offer is on a first-come, first-served basis, so if you’re interested, take action and book a call now!
If you want fantastic FREE writing prompts, a discounted copy of Albert’s book “Writing as a Path to Awakening,” and additional supportive resources, visit https://www.albertflynndesilver.com.
About Albert Flynn DeSilver
Albert Flynn DeSilver is an internationally published poet, writer, speaker, and workshop leader. He served as Marin County, California’s first Poet Laureate from 2008-2010.
His work has appeared in more than 100 literary journals worldwide, including ZYZZYVA, New American Writing, Hanging Loose, Jubilat, Exquisite Corpse, Jacket, Poetry Kanto, Van Gogh’s Ear, and many others. He is also the author of the memoir Beamish Boy, which Kirkus reviews called “a beautifully written memoir poignant and inspirational.” His latest book, Writing as a Path to Awakening (based on his popular workshops by the same name), was published by Sounds True.
Albert received a BFA from the University of Colorado and an MFA from the San Francisco Art Institute. He is also a speaker and trainer who has taught writing workshops at the Esalen Institute, the Omega Institute, Spirit Rock Meditation Center, and national literary conferences.
- Website: Albert Flynn DeSilver
- Blog: Blog - Albert Flynn DeSilver
- LinkedIn: Albert Flynn DeSilver
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- Robin Colucci’s Book: How to Write a Book That Sells You: Increase Your Credibility, Income, and Impact
Join us as we explore the online business universe with Andrea T. Edwards, sharing tips on optimizing social media to promote your book and create business connections. So tune in and discover how you can leverage social networking sites as an author today!
Key Takeaways from This Episode
- Factors affecting the content you post on social media
- How to build a credible LinkedIn profile
- Common errors people make on their LinkedIn profile and ways to fix them
- Practical book marketing advice to boost your sales
- Reasons why you should publish your blogs on LinkedIn
- Why writing a book is worthwhile
Resources Mentioned in This Episode
- 18 Steps to an All-Star LinkedIn Profile by Andrea T. Edwards
- Fiverr
- Canva
- Uncommon Courage by Andrea T. Edwards | Paperback and Kindle
- Weekend Reads
- BookTrib
About Andrea T. Edwards
Andrea T. Edwards CSP, The Digital Conversationalist, is a globally award-winning B2B communications professional who works with the world’s largest companies on the transformation they need to make to maximize business growth in our digital future. A change agent, provocateur, author, professional speaker, and social leader, she is all about helping businesses understand how they can empower employees to delight customers, grow personal career opportunities, and build brand success.
She is a warrior for the Earth, trying to help businesses understand that they must step up and lead to avoid the worst of climate catastrophe and build equal, equitable businesses that make winners of us all. She is also driven to create empathy and compassion, the critical driving force in today’s world. She believes that backing up your talk in how you present yourself is critical to being authentic and trustworthy — at a time when those qualities are so much in demand.
- Website: Andrea T. Edwards
- Blog: Uncommon Courage
- LinkedIn: Andrea T. Edwards, CSP
- Twitter: @AndreaTEdwards
- Andrea’s Books on Amazon: Andrea T. Edwards
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- Website: Robin Colucci
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- Robin Colucci’s Book: How to Write a Book That Sells You: Increase Your Credibility, Income, and Impact
Your experiences, struggles, and victories shape who you are, but are they worth to be written? Dive in to learn brilliant strategies for writing and marketing your memoir, plus essential tips to remember when choosing your editors and publishing company. Express your truth compellingly in this episode with Natasha Miller!
Key Takeaways from This Episode
- How to make an emotional connection with your readers
- The implications of writing your memoir
- Innovative ways to increase your memoir’s emotional impact
- The importance of doing your due diligence as an author
- What makes a great marketing plan an essential component of book’s success
Resources Mentioned in This Episode
- Relentless by Natasha Miller Audible Version
- Her Life by Natasha Miller
- Dear Evan Hansen
- IngramSpark
- Memoir Sherpa
About Natasha Miller
Natasha Miller isn’t your average author, nor is she your average CEO. She sits at the helm of Entire Productions, the go-to experience design, event, and entertainment production company in San Francisco. She has been on the Inc. 5000 list of fastest-growing companies in America for three years.
Natasha’s passion and commitment to giving back drive her invariable contributions and participation with numerous charitable organizations. She is a proud graduate of Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Businesses, Harvard Business School, and MIT. She is also performing as a jazz vocalist, a trained classical violinist, and is a member of The Recording Academy (Grammys), ASCAP, SF Travel, and Meeting Professionals International (MPI).
She resides in San Francisco, CA, where she is a member and on the board of EO (Entrepreneurs’ Organization).
- Website: Natasha Miller | NATASHA MILLER | SleekBio
- Podcast: Fascinating Entrepreneurs
- LinkedIn: Natasha Miller
- Twitter: @NatashaMillerSF
- Book: Relentless: Homeless Teen to Achieving the Entrepreneur Dream
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- Website: Robin Colucci
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- Robin Colucci’s Book: How to Write a Book That Sells You: Increase Your Credibility, Income, and Impact
Good writing is always about something. Today, you'll learn the secrets to making your book one of the "must-read books of all time" with these helpful writing and publishing tips from Dr. Ali Binazir. Tune in to this show and start your journey to becoming the bestselling author you've always wanted to be!
Key Takeaways from This Episode
- Methods to boost your book’s recommendability
- How to write your book in a conversational tone
- Great advice in writing your first draft
- Best tools to make book writing easier
- Helpful tips for more appealing book cover
- Self-publishing vs. traditional publishing
Resources Mentioned in This Episode
- The Tao of Dating: The Thinking Man's Enlightened Guide to Success With Women by Ali Binazir
- The Tao of Dating: The Smart Woman's Guide to Being Absolutely Irresistible by Ali Binazir | Paperback and Kindle
- BookExpo America
- Write and self-publish your book in 30 days: a guide for super-busy people
- Write Useful Books by Rob Fitzpatrick | Paperback and Kindle
- The Subtle Art of Not Giving a F*ck by Mark Manson | Paperback and Kindle
- utter.ai
- Google Docs
- Psychology Today
- Writing in Community
- Scrivener
- Microsoft Word
- WordPress Blog
- 99Designs
- Presence by Amy Cuddy | Hardcover and Kindle
- Kindle Direct Publishing
- Reedsy
- Bibliocrunch
About Dr. Ali Binazir
Ali Binazir is a Happiness Engineer, author, speaker, and behavioral change specialist. He has self-published 4 books, including The Tao of Dating: The Smart Woman's Guide to Being Absolutely Irresistible, the #1-rated dating book on Amazon for 7 years.
He has an A.B. from Harvard College, an M.D. from UC San Diego School of Medicine, and an M.Phil. from Cambridge University. Formerly a consultant at McKinsey & Co., Ali coaches speakers and has given three TEDx talks by invitation: "Awaken Creative Genius," "Love & the Empowered Woman", and "Happiness Engineering."
- Website: Harvard Blogs | Tao of Dating
- LinkedIn: Ali Binazir, MD MPhil
- Twitter: @DrAliBinazir
- Email: DrAli@HappinessEngineering.com
- Ali’s Books on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Ali-Binazir/e/B0058OUKSU%3Fref=dbs_a_mng_rwt_scns_share
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- Robin Colucci’s Book: How to Write a Book That Sells You: Increase Your Credibility, Income, and Impact
As we delve into the mysteries of language evolution, discover how new words are created and why words change meaning in this conversation with Dr. Valerie Fridland. Join us to know some words that made their mark in history, get a sneak peek at her upcoming book, and take a closer look at the transformation of words over time by tuning in to this episode.
Key Takeaways from This Episode
- The evolution of pronouns
- How does a word become “Word of the Year”?
- Causes of changes in word usage
- Who makes it possible for language to progress?
- Factors that give new meaning to words
Resources Mentioned in This Episode
- Wordle Game
- The Chicago Manual of Style by The University of Chicago Press Editorial Staff
- American Dialect Society
- Beowulf by anonymous | Paperback and Kindle
About Dr. Valerie Fridland
Dr. Valerie Fridland is a Professor of sociolinguistics and former Director of Graduate Studies in English at the University of Nevada in Reno. An expert on the relationship between language and society, her work has appeared in numerous academic journals and scholarly collections.
She is co-author of the book Sociophonetics and lead editor of three volumes on Western states English. She writes regularly for the popular Grammar Girl podcast, her language blog, Language in the Wild, is featured on Psychology Today, and her lecture series, Language and Society, is available from The Great Courses.
She is also working on her first book for a popular audience - on all the speech habits we love to hate - with Viking/Penguin. She gives talks for organizations ranging from the Serbian Ministry of Culture and Journalism.uk to Charles Schwab and IvyExec. She also regularly appears on podcasts and news programs such as The Elegant Warrior, The Mentor Project, The Lisa Show, CBS news, and Newsy’s The Why.
- Website: Valerie Fridland | Valerie Fridland Ph.D
- LinkedIn: Valerie Fridland
- Books: Sociophonetics (Key Topics in Sociolinguistics) by Tyler Kendall and Valerie Fridland | New Pop Linguistics Book
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Every day is a good day to talk about books. So, we invited John Kilpatrick to offer a fresh perspective on writing in this episode filled with humor and valuable writing tips. Don’t miss his surprising discoveries of the commonalities between textbooks and novels, and get to explore the contemporary definitions of writing today!
Key Takeaways from This Episode
- Advantages of prioritizing book’s readability over technicality
- The importance of identifying your target audience
- Similarities that exist between textbooks and novels
- Literary voice changes and ways to deal with it
- How to make people understand complex subjects easier
Resources Mentioned in This Episode
- The Godfather by Mario Puzo | Paperback and Kindle
- So, Anyway… by John Cleese | Paperback and Kindle
- Legend in Granite
- Sea Power by E.B Potter and Chester Nimitz
About John Kilpatrick
John Kilpatrick is the Managing Director of Greenfield Advisors, Director of the Washington State Economic Development Finance Authority, and is on the National Board of Advisors for Carson College of Business at Washington State University.
He holds a Ph.D. in Finance from the University of South Carolina and is the author of numerous books, including the recently published McGraw Hill text, Real Estate Valuation and Strategy. Dr. Kilpatrick’s consulting and academic research activities include work for and funded by the National Science Foundation, the U.S. Departments of Energy, Interior, Defense, and Commerce, Oak Ridge National Lab, Southeastern Universities Research Association, Oak Ridge Associated Universities, and numerous city and county governments and private organizations. He is one of the leading authorities in the world on mortgage-backed securities and has been featured in The Wall Street Journal, the Boston Globe, The New York Times, and other national publications.
Dr. Kilpatrick and his wife split their time between homes in Issaquah, Washington, and Key West, Florida. In his spare time, Dr. Kilpatrick is an instrument-rated private pilot, an avid yachtsman, and a Paul Harris Fellow of Rotary International.
- Website: John A. Kilpatrick | Greenfield Advisors
- LinkedIn: John A. Kilpatrick, Ph.D.
- Twitter: @john_kilpatrick
- John’s book: Real Estate Valuation and Strategy: A Guide for Family Offices and Their Advisors
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- Robin Colucci’s Book: How to Write a Book That Sells You: Increase Your Credibility, Income, and Impact
Do you let negative feelings live in your head rent-free? If so, we can help you acquire clarity and embrace the right mindset to effectively allocate your mental resources in this episode with Andrew McConnell. Don't let this opportunity to reclaim your headspace pass you by!
Key Takeaways from This Episode
- The reason behind people's unhappiness
- 3 primary things that divert our focus from the present
- Helpful ways to seize ownership of your mind
- Mindful writing: Considerations before starting a book
- What factors contribute to living an authentic life
Resources Mentioned in This Episode
- The Top Five Regrets of the Dying by Bronnie Ware | Paperback and MP3 CD
- A Moveable Feast by Ernest Hemingway | Paperback and Kindle
- The Artist's Way by Julia Cameron | Paperback and Kindle
- The Organized Mind by Daniel J. Levitin | Paperback and Kindle
- Take Back Your Life! by Sally McGhee
About Andrew McConnell
Andrew McConnell is the chief executive officer of RENTED, INC., the leading provider of technology, tools, and services to help vacation rental professionals optimize their portfolio of properties.
Before launching RENTED, he founded and ran VacationFutures, Inc. and Rented Capital, LLC. He worked with some of the world's largest public and private entities as a management consultant at McKinsey & Company and as a Director of Solutions Design at Axiom Global, Inc. His prior experience also includes putting his law degrees to more immediate use at Eversheds Sutherland (U.S.) LLP and Ashe, Rafuse & Hill, as well as time at Merrill Lynch.
He has been active in numerous non-profit and professional organizations, including Sheltering Arms, Georgia's oldest charity, for which he currently sits on the Board and Chairs the Financial Sustainability Committee, The Entrepreneurs Organization, for which he was an EO Atlanta Board Member, and EO Atlanta Accelerator Board Member, Young Entrepreneur Council, Atlanta Tech Leaders (Founding Advisory Board Member), Leadership Atlanta (50th Anniversary Class, and Leadership Series Co-Chair), and the Serve America Movement.
McConnell writes frequently and contributes to Forbes, Inc., and Huffington Post, Swimming. McConnell received his A.B. in History from Harvard University and his J.D. from other outlets. A former member of the U.S. National Team in Open Water Harvard Law School, and his LL.M. from the University of Cambridge, Trinity Hall.
- Website: Rented | M. Andrew McConnell
- LinkedIn: Rented | Andrew McConnell
- Book: Get Out of My Head: Creating Modern Clarity with Stoic Wisdom (Matt Holt Books June 2022)
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- Website: Robin Colucci
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In the age of automation, gig jobs, and hybrid models, let’s explore the future of the workplace. How can companies transform and adapt to these disruptive changes? Jeff Wald tells us more about his book, post-pandemic predictions, and effective ways for society to keep up with the ever-dynamic employment world.
Key Takeaways from This Episode
- The evolution and future of gig work, remote work, and automation
- Pre-pandemic and post-pandemic retirement trends and their impacts
- Trade workers shortage and what’s currently happening?
- The value of contributors when writing and finishing a book
- How to promote your book more efficiently
Resources Mentioned in This Episode
- Tom Brady
- XPRIZE Foundation
- Rapid Reskilling Program
- ADP
About Jeff Wald
Jeff Wald is the Founder of Work Market, an enterprise software platform that enables companies to efficiently and compliantly organize, manage and pay freelancers (purchased by ADP).
Jeff has founded several other technology companies, including Spinback, a social sharing platform (eventually purchased by salesforce.com). Jeff began his career in finance, serving as a Managing Director at activist hedge fund Barington Capital Group, a Vice President at Israeli venture firm Glenrock and various roles in the M&A Group at JP Morgan. He is an active angel investor and startup adviser and serves on numerous public and private Boards of Directors.
Jeff holds an MBA from Harvard University and an MS and BS from Cornell University. He also formerly served as an officer in the Auxiliary Unit of the New York Police Department. Jeff is the author of "The Birthday Rules" and "The End of Jobs: Rise of On-Demand Workers and Agile Corporations.”
Jeff is also a Producer of the Tony Award Winning Best Musical, “A Gentleman’s Guide to Love and Murder,” "Slava's Snowshow," and the full-length feature "Inez & Doug & Kira," which has won best picture at various film festivals. Jeff is a regular writer in Huffington Post and Forbes and speaks widely at conferences and on television on startups and labor issues. Jeff was named “One of the 100 Most Influential People in Staffing” by the Staffing Industry Analysts.
- Website: WorkMarket
- LinkedIn: Jeff Wald
- Jeff’s Book: The End of Jobs: The Rise of On-Demand Workers and Agile Corporations Audiobook & Hardcover
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Do you know why doing extensive research is essential for any story you are writing? Discover the answers in this episode with Ron Carucci and learn valuable firsthand experiences in book writing and publishing. Equip yourself with the knowledge and skills to write great books now!
Key Takeaways from This Episode
- Research: Definition and examples
- Why is evidence substantial in proving research theories?
- The influence of books on individuals
- Understanding constructive criticism
- Writing a book: the process, the difficulties, and the rewards
Resources Mentioned in This Episode
The Value-Creating Consultant by Ron Carucci
About Ron Carucci
Ron is co-founder and managing partner at Navalent, working with CEOs and executives pursuing transformational change for their organizations, leaders, and industries. He has a thirty-year track record of helping executives tackle strategy, organization, and leadership challenges from start-ups to Fortune 10’s, non-profits to heads-of-state, turnarounds to new markets and systems, overhauling leadership and culture to re-designing for growth. He has helped organizations articulate strategies that lead to accelerated growth and design organizations that can execute those strategies. He has worked in more than 25 countries on four continents. He is the author of 9 books, including the Amazon #1 Rising to Power and the recently released, To Be Honest: Lead with the Power of Truth, Justice & Purpose. He is a popular contributor to the Harvard Business Review, where Navalent’s work on leadership was named one of 2016’s management ideas that mattered most. He is also a regular contributor to Forbes and a two-time TEDx speaker. His work’s been featured in Fortune, CEO Magazine, Inc., BusinessInsider, MSNBC, Business Week, Inc., Fast Company, Smart Business, and thought leaders.
He lives in the New York City area with his wife. On weekends, you’ll find him on his bike, on the tennis court, on his skis, at the movies, or cheering for the Seattle Seahawks. His greatest joy is seeing leaders thrive by impacting the lives of those they lead. Helping leaders find their voice and use it to serve their organization’s greater good is what gets them up every morning. Ron has a collection of antique doorknobs, door knockers, and skeleton keys in his office. Every day, they remind him that life is about finding and pursuing the open doors in front of you and making sure those doors open for others. One of his favorite routines in the morning is picking a coffee mug in the conference room among his collection. Each mug hails from a different experience and person in his life and helps him begin his day by remembering to be grateful for all those in his life who’s been part of his story.
- Website: Navalent, To Be Honest
- LinkedIn: Ron Carucci
- Twitter: @RonCarucci
- Ron’s Book on Amazon: Titles By Ron A. Carucci
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A good laugh can also be good therapy, and in times like these, humor can be an excellent stress reliever. Discover the power of comedy in connecting with the audience, conveying ideas, and raising awareness in this episode with John Hlinko. Explore your humorous side and leave an impression today.
Key Takeaways from This Episode
- How does humor effectively spread messages
- Using humor to make a political impact
- Dealing with adverse social media reactions to humor
- A considerate approach to humor
- What makes truth-based humor funny
Resources Mentioned in This Episode
- MoveOn
- Woman Up
- The Righteous Mind by Jonathan Haidt | Paperback and Kindle
- The Learning Annex
- Goodfellas
- Annie Hall
About John Hlinko
As a youngster, John Hlinko never dreamed he would one day record a Grammy-winning duet with country music legend Willie Nelson. And indeed, it never happened. But he has been long recognized as an innovator on the grassroots engagement front, received numerous awards for his work, and been covered by nearly all the major national news outlets. He has also been quoted as a grassroots expert in multiple books and spoken at hundreds of events ranging from a few dozen attendees to a few thousand.
He is the founder of LeftAction, an activist community of more than 2 million, which has helped spur grassroots support for progressive organizations and candidates. He is also the author of two books: "Share, Retweet, Repeat: Get your message read and spread," a book on viral marketing, and "Pandemic Pickup Lines," used to raise funds for pandemic related relief.
In 2004, he was named one of the world’s top 25 “individuals, organizations and companies that are having the greatest impact on the way the Internet is changing politics” by the World Forum on e-Democracy. And in 2006, PR Week named him one of the top five “PR Professionals of the Year.”
John was the founder and leader of “DraftWesleyClark.com” in 2003/04, and in 2006/2007, he was the co-leader of “DraftObama.org,” a grassroots effort to build support for Senator Obama before his entrance into the race.
John holds a BA from Wesleyan University and a Master of Public Policy degree from Harvard University. He came in second for "Class clown" at Valley Stream Central High School, but the guy who beat him ended up on Saturday Night Live, so cut him some slack.
- Website: Left Action
- Facebook: Left Action
- Twitter: @jhlinko
- LinkedIn: John Hlinko
- John’s Book: Pandemic Pickup Lines: Painfully Punny Icebreakers for a Plague-Ravaged World
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Whether you are a beginner or a seasoned writer, there is always room for improvement. Join us in today’s episode as we discuss the various ways to become a better writer with Dwayne A. Thomas. Master your creativity and discover your unique style with these valuable writing tips!
Key Takeaways from This Episode
- The correlation between public speaking and writing
- A novel approach to overcoming writer's block
- Best methods for double-checking your work
- The significance of writing with both structure and emotion
- Recognizing the true essence of writing
Resources Mentioned in This Episode
- Lolita by Vladimir Nabokov | Paperback and Kindle
- Middlemarch by George Eliot | Paperback and Kindle
- A Different World
- Hamlet by William Shakespeare | Paperback and Kindle
- Stan by Eminem - A tragedy stemming from a fan’s anger because Eminem won’t respond to his letters. Notable for, among other things, rhyming “blistering cold” with “six years old” and the sound of a pencil writing while the letters are being composed.
Not a book on writing, but a single must-read for everyone:
Levels of the Game by John McPhee | Paperback and Kindle
Books everyone interested in writing should read, before anything else on this list:
50 Writing Tools by Roy Peter Clark
On Writing by Stephen King | Paperback and Kindle
The Elements of Style by E.B. White | Paperback and Kindle
Books on storytelling, also on screenplays:
The Anatomy of Story by John Truby | Paperback and Kindle
Story by Robert McKee | Paperback and Kindle
For people interested in academic writing:
Stylish Academic Writing by Helen Sword | Paperback and Kindle
If you've read everything else and start getting serious about your writing skills:
What If by Anne Bernays and Pamela Painter | Paperback and Hardcover
The Art of Fiction by John Gardner | Paperback and Kindle
For a discussion on structure:
Draft No. 4: On the Writing Process by John McPhee | Paperback and Kindle
For a discussion on a sense of place:
Working by Robert A. Caro | Paperback and Kindle
About Dwayne Thomas
Dwayne Allen Thomas is a lawyer and graduate of the University of Pennsylvania’s Master of Applied Positive Psychology program. He writes about the social and psychological roots of success and other stuff for his blog, The Cross-Examined Life in Psychology Today. His essay A White Man Called Me N** was selected as a semi-finalist in Boulevard’s Emerging Writer’s Contest. His articles How to Beat Any Test and You vs. Your Mentor were selected as “Essential Topics” by Psychology Today. His essay On Being an Ally was deemed an “Essential Read” by Psychology Today. His writing has also appeared in The New York Law Journal and Law Practice Today. Dwayne lives in New York City.
- Website: Dwayne Allen Thomas
- LinkedIn: Dwayne Allen Thomas
- Dwayne Thomas’s Articles on Psychology Today: Dwayne Allen Thomas
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Leveraging product-market fit is a critical factor for business success. We go deep into the powerful impact of embracing a customer-first approach in the world of innovation. Whether you’re writing a book, developing a product, or disrupting the industry, this episode with Neil Kane is for you.
Key Takeaways from This Episode
- Innovation: An inner perspective
- Quantitative indicators to assess product-market fit
- Two domains to improve product-market fit
- The significance of innovation in writing a book
- The importance of matching expectations of what you’re willing to do
Resources Mentioned in This Episode
- National Science Foundation: NSF
- Henry Ford
About Neil Kane
A leading authority on technology commercialization, entrepreneurship, and innovation, Kane is the Director of Curriculum and Capstone Advising in the ESTEEM Program at Notre Dame. He is the former co-Executive Director of the Illinois Technology Enterprise Center at Argonne National Laboratory and recently was Innovation Executive in Residence at the Research Park at the University of Illinois. He was the founding CEO of several startup companies based on university research in nanotechnology and advanced materials. He was the first Entrepreneur in Residence at both the University of Illinois and Northern Illinois University. Earlier, he held engineering, sales, and business development positions at IBM and Microsoft. His other startups include a toy company and a barbecue sauce company.
He holds a BS in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Illinois and an MBA from The University of Chicago. Named a 2007 Technology Pioneer by the World Economic Forum, he attended their annual meeting twice in Davos, Switzerland. He was recognized for Outstanding Entrepreneurship by the National Science Foundation. Twice an invited witness on tech transfer for the U.S. House of Representative's Subcommittee on Research & Science Education. Contributor to Forbes.com. Co-author of The Innovator’s Secret Formula. He is trained in improvisational acting and is a graduate of the Player’s Workshop at The Second City in Chicago.
- Website: Illinois Partners
- LinkedIn: Neil Kane
- Neil’s Book: The Innovator’s Secret Formula: For Innovation, Disruption & Market Leadership
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Are you writing for the sake of writing? Brad Kane generously shares the value of loving your craft, being passionate about what you're doing, establishing a path to success, and putting your voice out there. Lots of informative call-to-action pieces ahead!
Key Takeaways from This Episode
- Transitioning from discovering one’s passion to writing a book
- The value and benefits of networking
- Pitchfork Populism: A synopsis
- Marketing a book: Then and Now
- Tips on how to get started with book writing
Resources Mentioned in This Episode
- Prometheus Books
- BookExpo America
- Steven Mitchell
- Nancy Rosenfeld
- Robert Mueller
- Post-Trump Era
- Fresh Air
About Brad Kane
Bradford R. Kane began his career in the US Congress as Legislative Counsel to U.S. Congresswoman Cardiss Collins; as Counsel to the House Energy and Commerce Subcommittee on Commerce, Consumer Protection; and as a member of President Clinton’s Task Force on Health Care Reform. After that, he served the State of California as Deputy Controller, Legislation, and subsequently, a Deputy Secretary of Information Technology. Kane was a member of the Nielsen Media Research Task Force on Television Measurement; created the Bipartisan Bridge website (advancing bipartisanship in American government); was Vice President for Government Relations at a consulting firm; and developed environmental and economic equity initiatives.
In the global arena, he was a Strategy Council member of the United Nations Global Alliance on ICT & Development, CEO of the International Commission on Workforce Development, and Director of Strategic Initiatives and Director of International Development at TechSoup Global. Kane also contributed a chapter to the book Dream of a Nation and posted many articles on The Huffington Post as a featured contributor. He received his undergraduate degree from the University of California, Davis, and his law degree from UC Hastings College of the Law.
And he is the author of Pitchfork Populism: Ten Political Forces That Shaped an Election and Continue to Change America.
- Website: Pitchfork Populism
- Twitter: @CitizenKaneBrad
- LinkedIn: Bradford K.
- Brad’s Book: Pitchfork Populism: Ten Political Forces That Shaped an Election and Continue to Change America
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We chat with Alexandra Watkins, who shares insightful and quirky ideas on how to promote a book and your brand. Today, it’s all about discovering your personality, having fun, and getting your name out there. You certainly don’t want to miss this!
Key Takeaways from This Episode
- Helpful techniques to convince readers to write an online review
- How to reiterate positive thoughts of an online review and engage with your readers
- The importance of creating the right brand name/title
- Strategies to effectively market your book and keep your book top of the line
- Unique ways to add a personal touch to book promotions
Resources Mentioned in This Episode
- Your First 1,000 Copies by Tim Grahl | Audiobook & Paperback
- Pablo Picasso
- Breaking Bad
- Walter White
- Made to Stick by Chip Heath and Dan Heath | Audiobook & Hardcover
- TCHO Chocolate
- Cupcake Vineyards
- Give & Take by Adam M. Grant | Audiobook & Hardcover
About Alexandra Watkins
Chief Executive Boss Lady of Eat My Words, Alexandra Watkins, is a leading and outspoken authority on brand names. Her breakthrough creativity book, Hello, My Name is Awesome: How to Create Brand Names That Stick, is considered “the brand name Bible” and was named a Top 10 Marketing Book by Inc. Magazine.
Since 2005, Alexandra and her firm have created love-at-first-sight brand names for clients from Amazon to Xerox. Her name hall of fame includes Wendy’s Baconator, the Neato robotic vacuum, Smitten ice cream, Spanish language school Gringo Lingo, frozen yogurt franchise Spoon Me, and the Church of Cupcakes.
Alexandra is not afraid to name names, especially in her entertaining presentation “How Not to Nayme Your Startup.” She is a popular speaker and has delighted audiences at conferences, including Startup Grind, Endeavor, Collision, and LA Tech Week. She especially enjoys speaking to MBA students and has been invited to lecture multiple times at Stanford University, the University of California at Berkeley, the Tuck School of Business at Dartmouth, the University of Southern California, the University of San Francisco, the University of San Diego, INSEAD, and other fine academic institutions.
Before Eat My Words, Alexandra was an advertising copywriter, working at leading West Coast ad agencies, including Ogilvy and Mather, where she worked for five years, helped launch Microsoft Windows, and learned the language of Geek Speak. In the mid-nineties, she jumped on the dot com gravy train and rode it until it crashed in her San Francisco backyard. Alexandra took the money and ran, spending an entire year in Australia, New Zealand, Bali, and Fiji disguised as a 21-year-old backpacker. Upon her return, she followed her passion for creating names and soon after started Eat My Words.
Alexandra creates imaginative succulent arrangements in unexpected containers she finds by scouring her local flea market in San Diego in her free time. She lives by the beach in her Barbie Dream House and works out of her pool house office, where she has a view of a colorful surfboard fence, tropical tiki bar, and chattering flocks of Point Loma’s famous green parrots. Her three giant inflatable pink flamingos are Maui, Wowie, and Howie.
- Website: Eat My Words
- Twitter: @eatmywords
- Facebook: Eat My Words
- LinkedIn: Eat My Words
- Alexandra’s Book: Hello, My Name is Awesome: How to Create Brand Names That Stick
- Alexandra’s Online Course: How to Create Super Sticky Brand Names
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We enjoyed chatting with Dr. Randy Paterson in this episode. Hear him talk about his strategies of using reverse psychology and real-life affirmations to help other people find their way through depression and life failures. Yes, stick to repeatable processes and what works, and hit play!
Key Takeaways from This Episode
- What is the main point of assertiveness?
- Ways to access your book sales stats and author rank
- How negative mood states impact motivation
- Effects of introducing children to failure at an early age
- Reasons why people write and its benefits
Resources Mentioned in This Episode
- Patrick Fanning – New Harbinger Publications, Inc.
- JK Rowling
- Amazon
- CGP Grey
- CGP Grey: 7 Ways to Maximize Misery
- Failure to Launch Syndrome
- Hikikomori
- Not in Education, Employment, or Training (NEET)
- Nielsen Cross-Platform Report
- University Student Counselling Service
About Randy Paterson, PhD
Randy Paterson, PhD is a psychologist and author living in Vancouver BC. He is the founder of Changeways Clinic, one of Vancouver's largest private psychotherapy services, and the author of How to be Miserable:40 Strategies You Already Use, How to be Miserable in Your Twenties, Private Practice Made Simple, Your Depression Map, and The Assertiveness Workbook.
He vlogs about psychology and mental health at YouTube's PsychologySalon channel, and provides online courses for professionals and the public (including a course on writing long-form non-fiction). He has provided over 300 training seminars for mental health professionals on topics including communication skills, psychotherapy process, practice management, and the treatment of mood and anxiety disorders.
- Website: Randy Peterson, PhD
- YouTube: PsychologySalon
- Randy’s Online Courses: https://psychologysalon.teachable.com/
Randy’s Books:
- How to Be Miserable: 40 Strategies You Already Use ⏐ Paperback and Kindle
- The Assertiveness Workbook: How to Express Your Ideas and Stand Up for Yourself at Work and in Relationships ⏐ Paperback and Hardcover
- Your Depression Map: Find the Source of Your Depression and Chart Your Own Recovery ⏐ Paperback
- Private Practice Made Simple: Everything You Need to Know to Set Up and Manage a Successful Mental Health Practice ⏐ Paperback and Kindle
- How to Be Miserable in Your Twenties: 40 Strategies to Fail at Adulting ⏐ Paperback and Kindle
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In this episode, I share a great laugh with Susan Silver as she reminisces her writing career with so much enthusiasm, courage, and life. Tune in to find out more about adding comedy to one’s content, sitcom writing, and leaving a legacy to the public.
Key Takeaways from This Episode
- The three Rs in writing
- Inspirational tips on confronting one’s fears in writing
- Relating the characters’ stories to real-life experiences
- Techniques to enjoy sitcom writing
- Why people watch true-crime murder series
Resources Mentioned in This Episode
- Lily Tomlin
- Mary Tyler Moore
- How To Thrive Despite Your Fears: Pioneering TV Writer Susan Silver Shares Her Best Tips
- Garry Marshall
- Love, American Style
- The Mary Tyler Moore Show
- Bob Newhart
- Francis Ford Coppola
- Robinhood Radio on Demand: Susan Says
- The Search for Mr. Adequate
- University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA)
- Succession
- Billions
- Joe vs. Carole
- Everybody Loves Raymond
- Veep
- My 600-lb Life
About Susan Silver
Susan Silver was one of the original writers of The Mary Tyler Moore Show, The Bob Newhart Show, Maude, and many other sitcoms. She wrote two Top Ten Movies of the Week, feature films, and pilots for her sitcoms. Also, she has appeared on TV talk shows such as Fox Good Day NY (5), The Today Show (3), is a frequent radio guest on Boomer issues for the Growing Bolder radio program, Bill Bennett Show, and others. She has a long-running radio commentary on the NPR affiliate of Connecticut called “Susan Says” on www.Robinhoodradio.com and iTunes. Profiled in TV Guide, Esquire, and other publications, she has written OP-Ed pieces for The New York Times, articles for Los Angeles Magazine, Refinery 29, and had a long-running column on newyorksocialdiary.com entitled “The Search For Mr. Adequate.” In a second career, she worked in Holocaust-related organizations such as the Anti-Defamation League, running their Speakers Bureau, and as a UN Observer for the Simon Wiesenthal Center. The New York Sun calls her “The Voice for those past the Sex and the City bracket.” Her memoir, “Hot Pants in Hollywood: Sex, Secrets & Sitcoms was published in 2017.
- Website: Hot Pants in Hollywood
- LinkedIn: Susan Silver
- Twitter:@suz_8
- Susan’s Book: Hot Pants in Hollywood: Sex, Secrets & Sitcoms | Audiobook & Paperback
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Communicating history to convey the story of what’s happening and what’s bound to happen is vital to solving many problems in the world. Joining us today is Jason Steinhauer to talk about the impact of how our roots are being communicated in different media forms, how the web has reshaped what we think about the past, and how the History profession is being disrupted nowadays. Major call-to-action items ahead.
Key Takeaways from This Episode
- Comparing and contrasting history as depicted in books versus social media
- How online crowdsourcing impacts history
- Massive effects of how journalism, history, science, and publishing are represented on the web
- What’s currently going on in the History profession?
- The value of understanding the history of things
Resources Mentioned in This Episode
- David Grinspoon
- Wayne State University
- Jesmyn Ward
-
PublishingPaidMe
- The Esperanza Education Fund
- Jim Grossman
About Jason Steinhauer
Jason Steinhauer is an author, public historian, podcast host, founder of the History Communication Institute, creator of History Club, and a Global Fellow at The Wilson Center. He is passionate about creating an educated, informed, and historically media literate citizenry. He served as Founding Director of the Lepage Center for History in the Public Interest; is currently a Global Fellow at The Woodrow Wilson Center and a Senior Fellow at the Foreign Policy Research Institute; a contributor to TIME and CNN; a past editorial board member of The Washington Post "Made By History" section; and a Presidential Counselor of the National WWII Museum. He worked for seven years at the U.S. Library of Congress.
In 2020, he founded the History Club on Clubhouse, which he hosts regularly. The club has more than 100,000 members and averages 2,500 participants per week. In 2021, he founded the first cryptocurrency devoted to history, $JASON coin. The coin will be used to provide grants for public-facing history projects.
In 2014, he coined the term "History Communicators" and has worked with colleagues worldwide to found the new field of History Communication. He is the founder and CEO of the History Communication Institute. His first book, History, Disrupted, examines how history gets communicated on the World Wide Web.
Jason has twice traveled overseas with the U.S. Department of State as part of diplomatic exchanges between the United States and the European Union, meeting with government officials, scholars, and students to discuss the effects of the Web and social media on public understandings of news, history, and information. He has spoken at events across the United States and Europe and appears frequently in the
media. A native New Yorker, he is a long-suffering New York Jets fan.
- Website: Jason Steinhauer
- LinkedIn: Jason Steinhauer
- Twitter: @JasonSteinhauer
- Instagram: @jasonsteinhauer
- Jason’s Book: History, Disrupted
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Writing a book isn't just about writing a book. You need to begin with the right mindset that will allow you to create a quality product that provides value. Daniel Mangena is a successful entrepreneur, best-selling author, podcast host of Do it with Dan, a life & business transformation coach, and an international public speaker. He is known for programs and content that take clients and students to the next level of living. Join Daniel in his insightful conversation with host Robin Colucci on the importance of investing in the process and having the right mindset. If you're looking to start your author journey, this episode is one you won't want to miss.
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How do you create content to inspire your audience? Robin Colucci welcomes Vince Del Monte, a fitness business coach and 7-figure online marketing expert. Vince shares how his best posts come out from his devotional in the morning. Take a look at your life and see the parallel with current world events. Take your ideas and simplify them into digestible, shareable points. You can use a few simple words to communicate a rich message. Finally, don’t forget to enrich your mind by constant reading and listening to great content. If you want more tips on creating inspiring posts, listen to this episode.
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Develop the mindset and attitude you need for social media success. Melanie Herschorn started her career in journalism, working at a newspaper and radio station but got laid off when she got pregnant. She then had the idea of designing and manufacturing breastfeeding clothing but had to shut it down because it made her miserable. That's where she decided to focus on helping people, especially authors, with their marketing. Melanie Herschorn has extensive knowledge about the process of starting a business from scratch, curating the best digital marketing content for your niche, and creating effective writing to attract your ideal customer. Tune in to know how to promote and effectively market your business online.
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How does sprinting to efficiency work for maximum productivity? Host Robin Colucci introduces Simon Severino, the Business Growth Coach at Strategy Sprints GmbH. Simon focuses on one thing: to help you double your revenue in 90 days. Today, if you run a business based on long-term planning and long analysis, you may not survive because you have to adapt fast. That’s why you need to proceed the sprint way. There are two levels to this method: 80% action, then 20% review of the action. You need to build, measure, learn, repeat. Want more tips on how to sprint to efficiency? Tune in!
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With everything evolving, the publishing industry is bound to adapt to a more welcoming environment for new and aspiring authors. Jenn T. Grace is back with Robin Colucci to talk about diversity, equity, and inclusion in the publishing industry. Jenn is an award-winning author, nationally recognized speaker, and savvy publishing strategist. Heading her company, Publish Your Purpose, Jenn gives first-time authors the secrets to getting their books written, and marking their place in the publishing world. She also shares how she leads ambitious authors through every aspect of writing, editing, and publishing their books.
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Even good writers make mistakes. How can you avoid these? Robin Colucci discusses 11 of these writing mistakes with Hara Estroff Marano, the Editor at Large of Psychology Today. No matter how good you get at writing, you’ll never master it. There's always another way to improve. One of the best ways to level up is to be aware of common writing mistakes. The first one is not knowing what you’re writing about. To overcome that, you need to know what your perspective is. How? By distilling your ideas into a headline and subheadline. Do you want to avoid more writing mistakes good writers make? Tune in!
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Like everything important in life, we need to figure out the right timing to do something. The same goes for writing. So how will you know whether or not it is the right time to write your book? In this episode, Robin Colucci discusses the three signs for when it is not the right time and when it is, breaking down each one to help you understand the process. Don’t let the pressure of writing keep you from writing a good book. Watch out for the signs in this conversation.
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A recent post on R Colucci LLC's website announced a success rate of 100% in obtaining a literary agent for their authors. Join Robin Colucci as she takes a deep dive in how this was achieved. Robin takes a look at how they operate, emotional attachments and why a well written and well-designed proposal is key to success. Learn the ins and outs of Robin and her strategy for success. Tune in for more publishing insights from Robin.
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Even before the pandemic started, there were already people who were doing remote work for various reasons, including our guest today, Sarah Hawley. She is a serial entrepreneur, creating and selling multiple companies for over seven figures. She's currently the Founder and CEO of Growmotely, which connects conscious companies and professionals into long-term remote jobs. Sarah was able to release her full potential to be a great leader through remote work and had increased productivity within her team. Learn why flexibility is a key factor for employee satisfaction and business success and find out why and how you can improve work processes, especially if you are looking for a remote job that's right for you!
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Do you want to achieve extraordinary success? Get the most out of every minute of the day. In this episode, Robin Colucci’s guest is Dr. Ruth Gotian, the Chief Learning Officer at Weill Cornell Medicine. In this episode, Ruth shares some of the highlights of her book, The Success Factor. Successful people have an intrinsic motivation to do what they love doing. They put passion and purpose into their work, but they also know how to find the balance. If you want to know how to achieve extraordinary success in your life, there’s no better way to learn than listening to this episode. Tune in!
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What are the two of the most influential factors affecting the writing career of Nobel laureate Robert Lefkowitz? Chutzpah and collaboration. Robert talks with Robin Colucci about how chutzpah means having the intellectual flux to challenge established ideas and concepts. Young people need chutzpah to succeed in life. Another thing you need is collaboration. Throughout his journey, there have been significant figures that motivated him to write a book. Without them, Robert wouldn’t have had written: A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to Stockholm. Join in the conversation to unearth more funny and inspiring stories from Robert. Don’t miss out!
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Diversity and Inclusion are two important issues today, not just in the workplace but outside of it as well. So how do we develop effective workplace allyship? We answer this question and more as Robin Colucci interviews DEI Expert Jen O’Ryan. Jen discusses the need for diversity and inclusion in the workplace and how you can make a difference. Tune in and learn more from Jen and Robin.
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Men have an absolute responsibility to advocate equality for women in the workplace. Robin Colucci’s guest in this episode is Jeffery Tobias Halter, a consultant, author, gender strategist, and the President of YWomen. Jeffery explains that 75% of the problem in advancing women is in men, but men are also 75% of the solution. Women get less support from their managers and experience more microaggressions daily than men do. If companies want to drive change, they have to promote women. What are the things you can do to support equality for women at work? Listen to this episode and find out!
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Looking for useful tips as self-publishing author? Today’s guest can help you out! Julie Broad is the President of Book Launchers and a successful self-published author with her latest work, Self-Publish & Succeed: The No Boring Books Way to Writing a Non-Fiction Book that Sells. She joins host Robin Colucci to share practical tips for authors looking to find success as they pursue self-publishing. Julie offers insight in marketing, promotions, and setting expectations. Join in on their chat to get more author success tips you can use on before your next launch!
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Looking for a book marketing strategy that will work for you? Then you’ve come to the right place! Today’s guest is Rick Lite, COO of Stress Free Book Marketing. Rick is a seasoned book marketing professional with over 18 years of experience in the industry. He joins Robin Colucci to share his knowledge and experience in helping authors develop a marketing strategy that’s right for them and their goals. He also shares insider tips on creating a successful campaign that will lead to increased exposure, awareness, and sales. Plus, keep your ears open for the book marketing strategy you should be avoiding. Stay tuned!
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How can solopreneurs and small businesses increase visibility and credibility with a low budget? By finding affordable PR services. Host Robin Colucci’s guest in this episode is Mickie Kennedy, the founder and CEO of eReleases.com. Mickie shares with Robin about his conviction that publicity shouldn’t be limited to large corporations. That’s why eReleases maintained low prices despite having an impressive in-house database of subscribing journalists. Discover strategies on having affordable PR to increase visibility and credibility. Tune in!
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There’s no better time to be a copywriter than right now. But writing effective copy is no easy task, and figuring out the art and science of copywriting is key in building your portfolio. Today’s guest is Nicki Krawczyk, the President of Nicki K. Media and the creator of The Filthy Rich Writer, where she offers tips, tools, and training for new and aspiring copywriters. Nicki has curated her 15+ years of experience in copywriting to help others build successful careers. She sits down with host Robin Colucci to share these experiences along with some helpful tips along the way. Interested in learning more? Tune in to this episode and get copywriting tips from an expert!
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At its very core, poetry is the expression of the soul. Much like the founder, the executive team, or the leadership team, the company is an expression of them. For poet James Nguyen, to write poetry for brands is to find the unique expression of what that brand, company, or organization does and speak about it in a unique way. On today’s show, Robin Colucci talks with James about the creative world of poetry and how he is disrupting business communication. James is a serial entrepreneur who was featured across CNBC, Sky, and ABC. He was also a contributing writer for Forbes. James talks about writing poetry for brands and explains how poetry can bring happiness, peace, and fulfillment to anyone’s journey. Tune in and learn how to paint somebody’s life with words!
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How do you monetize and market your genius? How do you start a business off of your skills and passion? In this episode, Robin Colucci talks to Nikki Nash, founder of Market Your Genius as she shares her twin passions of marketing and branding. Nikki discusses how important marketing is to your brand and why books are a great marketing tool to promote monetizing your skills and passion. Tune in to learn more marketing lessons from Nikki and Robin.
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Should being an Amazon bestseller be the goal for new authors? It may be more important to focus on Amazon's algorithms and how you can make it work for you rather than vying for a title. Today's guest is Polly Letofsky, a motivational speaker, award-winning author, and owner of My World Publishing, where she guides authors in publishing their books seamlessly. She joins Robin Colucci to break down how the Amazon algorithm works and why authors should focus more on getting their book in front of the right demographic rather than getting a title with vague criteria. She offers tips on optimizing your keywords for the Amazon search engine starting from the backend and how you can stand out from the crowd with your titles. Get more practical advice on how to get your book in front of the right people by tuning in!
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Just think of all the books we could have written if only we had time! Isn't this the oldest excuse in the book? It's time to overcome this and just start writing! In this episode, Robin Colucci interviews author, speaker, and high-performance expert Steven Griffith to ask about the ways we can navigate the time aspect when writing a book. Steven talks about the many distractions we encounter in this day and age and how the tools and techniques taught before don't work anymore. He then spills the system he developed that helped him get a book deal, sharing with you how you can eliminate wasted time and bring out the best that you can give into your work. All of this on time management and more as Steven gives us a peek into his book, The Time Cleanse. Join him and catch all the great tips and tricks to add to your toolbelt in this episode.
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Strategy is key to successful book marketing. Your book has to be so evergreen that it can withstand the test of time. Make your book have a lasting impression on your audience. Learn who your book is for, why you are doing it, and more. Join your host Robin Colucci and her guest Sam Horn on finding the secret to your book's success. Sam is a bestselling author and the founder/CEO of The Intrigue Agency. Together, Robin and Sam go through some tips on how you can make your book truly evergreen. Learn how to find where your readers are at and tackle their problems. Learn the secret strategy today!
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There's nothing more difficult than feeling alone in your writing career. Enter Stephanie Chandler, the Founder and CEO of Nonfiction Authors Association, who firmly believes that nonfiction writers need a community to back them up. Stephanie shares with Robin Colucci how she felt left out in a writer's conference of 300 people. It seemed she was the only one writing about a business book! There and then, something had to change.
Join in the conversation and discover how Stephanie built an online community for nonfiction writers. Eleven years later, the community stands strong with inspiring and supportive members worldwide. You don't ever have to feel alone in your writing journey. Tune in and feel at home!
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There are different kinds of conversations. With that, there are relevant ideas for specific topics. How do you share ideas that could be useful for other people? How could you make a difference and make an impact on their lives? Join Robin Colucci in this conversation with Michael Roderick on how to create referable brands. Michael is the CEO of Small Pond Enterprises, which helps thoughtful givers become thought leaders by making their brands referable, their messaging memorable, and their ideas unforgettable. He shares his professional journey and how to better communicate with people and influence them with our ideas. Don’t miss this episode to learn how to develop incredible ideas, deliver them, and grow your business in the industry you’re in.
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Many authors get held back from pursuing success because it can’t come too soon for them. But achieving long term success comes from thinking strategically and playing the long game. Recognizing how many of her fellow authors are getting trapped in the short-term mindset, world-renowned keynote speaker and author Dorie Clark addresses this in her upcoming book, The Long Game. Joining Robin Colucci in this fun and relatable episode, Dorie explains the difference between short-term thinking versus taking the long view approach. If, like so many of us in the industry, you are feeling like your efforts aren’t taking you to the pinnacle fast enough, you’re going to get your mind changed by this episode.
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Getting a book deal can be very exciting, but don't let all the thrill cloud your judgments. Sometimes, they could do you more harm than good. Helping first-time authors navigate the publishing world, Robin Colucci sits down with the founder of Publish Your Purpose, Jenn T. Grace. Publish Your Purpose is an acclaimed hybrid publishing company that gives first-time authors the secrets to getting their books written, finding an eager audience, and making their place in the publishing world. In this episode, Jenn goes into great detail on some of the warning signs you need to contemplate before signing on the dotted line with publishers. She breaks down the nine crucial questions you need to ask to ensure that what you're getting into won't turn out to negatively affect you, be that financially or your intellectual property. Join Jenn as she guides you into the intricacies of book publishing in this valuable conversation.
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When you’re tying to sell your book on TV, how do you get your message across? What should you say or do to get people to listen? We answer these questions and more as Robin Colucci sits down for an interview with TV host and coach, Suzanne Sena. Suzanne talks about getting your point across and gives a few simple tips to help you make a great impression on TV. Tune in to learn more on getting your point across.
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Creating a community isn’t just about selling your book. It should also be about creating connections. In this episode, we learn more about the importance of community and connections as Robin Colucci interviews author and community expert Charles Vogl. Charles unpacks and examines community and how building and sustaining one is an important aspect of today’s social norm. Learn more about community and its potential in this provocative discussion.
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For anyone who wants to kick-start their writing career, how do you craft an article that top publications would actually want to buy? Susan Shapiro says you have to make it sensational. Write a three-page, double-spaced essay about your darkest, most humiliating secret. Susan is an award-winning writer and professor. Today, she joins Robin Colucci to share a trick she has taught for 25 years with her students, many of whom are now successful authors. Join in the conversation and discover simple tips on how you can kick-start your author career by writing for top publications.
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One of the biggest book PR myths is that PR is the main driver of book sales. It does raise awareness, but it’s only one piece of the book promotion pie. Robin Colucci’s guest in this episode is Kim Corbin, a Senior Publicist at New World Library. Join Kim and Robin in this conversation about some myths around PR and publishing and the relationship between a publisher's PR department and authors. Kim also shares some great ideas for promoting and launching your book, regardless of how you chose to publish.
Every little thing you do in the digital world matters. Plan ahead of your publication date how you’ll present your book to your audience. Make it interesting and fun! Tune in to learn more and be your book’s best publicist!
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Financial empowerment often starts at one place: the value of your products or services. When you value yourself too low, that means a lower chance of profits and financial success. When this happens, you will need to start reimagining pricing and sales if you want to achieve financial freedom. Join our host Robin Colucci as she chats with the founder and President of The Block Group, Patty Block, about why you need to take a long, hard look at your pricing and sales models. Patty then discusses the need for value-driven pricing and talks about empowering women business owners.
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The publishing industry is notorious for its low pay and lack of proper representation. For it to see actual growth in today's ever-changing society, a proper DE&I vision must be crafted and put in place. Robin Colucci talks with Carrie Bloxson to discuss publishing challenges in creating diverse teams and releasing materials that shed light on equality and inclusion. They also talk about the contribution of Generation Z and Millennials in this massive shift, explaining how their wokeness helps correct misrepresentations and cultural misconceptions. Moreover, Carrie shares about her work at Hachette Book Group as its Vice President of Diversity and Inclusion, detailing their efforts to improve training programs and marketing strategies in these essential areas.
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Are you a writer or a speaker? If you are, what can you do in this time of uncertainty? What new ideas can you write about during this time? Speaking events in front of a packed audience isn't the norm anymore, so how will you adapt? Learn how to generate income in this challenging times with speaker and author Orvel Ray Wilson. Orvel is the co-author of six of the guerrilla marketing books. He has been voted one of the world's Top Five Sales and Marketing Speakers for five years straight. Orvel joins Robin Colucci in this lovely conversation about business during the pandemic. Learn the importance of internet marketing and how to go virtual. Also, discover tips that aspiring speakers and writers can do in these rough times. Make sure to take some notes because the advice that Orvel is offering is timeless.
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Everyone has a zone of creative genius. It's just a matter of tapping into it and capturing your ideas before they fly away. Robin Colucci's guest today is her good friend, Sam Bennett. Sam is a best-selling author and creator of The Organized Artist Company. In this episode, she and Robin discuss strategies for breaking down your creative blocks, so you can get going with your writing and get it done! Index cards, buddy systems, and learning how to believe in yourself are all great examples of strategies Sam advocates. Want to learn more? Listen to this episode! Relax, enjoy, and soak in these valuable insights you’ll need for your writing journey.
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Are you aiming for marketing success? In today’s episode, Robin’s guest, Don McGrath, creator of the 6- Minute Webinar, shares his secret for how to create powerful, effective messages that move people to action. The 6-Minute Webinar is a technology that generates a webinar script just for you, coupled with an online course to help you implement. With an easy-to-use template that includes an introduction, future pacing, problem, and struggle story, all you have to do is to tweak it a little bit to make it your own. Tune in and learn more about this tool that will change how you approach marketing!
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Trauma is a difficult thing to process and get past. It is something many of us work through every day. Lisa Danylchuk, the founder of The Center for Yoga and Trauma Recovery, has written Yoga for Trauma Recovery to provide informed and effective treatment for people dealing with trauma. In this episode, she joins Robin Colucci to talk about her book writing process. She discusses her work in the yoga and trauma recovery spaces and how her experiences have helped her train people to help others recover from trauma. Lisa also shares how she is using her writing to further grow her business and, most importantly, help change the world. Tune in and learn how to make your writing speak for itself and create the impact it needs to.
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Storytelling is one of humanity’s oldest means of communication. Unsurprisingly, it is also an effective marketing tool that has the potential to truly captivate – if done correctly. In discussing this powerful idea, Robin Colucci is joined by former spoken word artist and marketing wizard Kylie Slavik. Kylie raps about her start in the poetry scene and her beginnings as a marketing copywriter. You'll also hear about how stories can affect us on a biochemical level. Listen in to learn how stories can help market your business and pick up some tips for your next marketing copy!
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Publishing is no longer a business of selling books, but a business of selling content. That’s how Mark Herschberg sees the industry’s trajectory as he finds himself leading the charge in creating the next wave of innovation in the space. The author of The Career Toolkit, Mark is no stranger to the challenges that authors and publishers alike are facing with the traditional publishing models. Marrying his technology background with his author aspirations, Mark is currently developing an app that aims to take the book beyond the pages that it is contained in, in the traditional sense, and make its content become available to its audience in unprecedented ways. Join in as he explains this concept further in this conversation with Robin Colucci and open your mind to a new world of possibilities that might just herald a new era in the publishing industry.
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Authorship challenges come at many difficult levels, requiring a lot of resilience and preparation. But anyone who has the goal to inspire others through books will undoubtedly find success in this industry. Sharing her authorship journey with Robin Colucci is Edie Raether, who considers her profession in writing a healthy obsession. Edie talks about the problems she faced with the editing process, leveraging the power of evergreen content, and the most effective marketing strategies to remain relevant and visible. She also stresses the importance of finding the right people to collaborate with and utilizing hindsight to ensure you're taking advantage of all the opportunities that come your way.
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The problem with the education system is how it leaves many students lost in the real world after they graduate high school. The school has become so distant from what is happening in the real world that it fails to help students fulfill their goals and find their dream job. It is time to take charge of our education system and ensure it serves students the way it should—preparing them for life beyond school. In this episode, Robin Colucci sits down with Deborah Olatunji, a Philadelphia-based writer, storyteller, and host of The Voices of Disruption Podcast. Deborah shares some wisdom from her book, Unleashing Your Innovative Genius, where she provides a guide to redesigning the education system that will help kids thrive. She discusses her journey in getting her book published while still in high school and what she is doing now to keep her book sales moving amidst the pandemic. Join today's conversation to hear more of Deborah's tremendous insights into education and how we can ignite our students of today and tomorrow to become curious innovators.
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Regardless if you can write the most extravagant book in the entire world, it will never sell itself without proper marketing strategies in place for you to properly optimize authorship returns. Sitting down with Robin Colucci is author Mike Michalowicz, who started as a self-publisher and eventually found his way to the traditional method, thanks to Penguin. Mike explains how to make yourself and your books visible in the competitive market, particularly when deciding to make a class out of it. He also highlights the lasting power of books by sharing that one time they offered them as event memorabilia.
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There is so much wasted potential and knowledge in this world because of the imposter syndrome. Oftentimes, in our journey towards becoming an author, we reach that point where we start to doubt ourselves and think of retreating. Learn how to move past that and unleash the value you can give to the world. Robin Colucci interviews Dana Pharant, a business performance coach, in this episode. As a former dominatrix, Dana reveals how we can start owning our power and overcome the doubt and questions along the way. She shares some great strategies that can help us continue to write, break through writer’s block, and employ our books to expand our brand and business. Join this conversation to conquer the self-doubt that is in the way of you becoming an author.
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Social media has been doing so much to help brands boost their marketing. But just because these platforms have the ability to do so doesn’t mean they’ll be effective most of the time. That is why when you’re on to promoting your book, you need to utilize social media the right way. In this episode, Robin Colucci sits down with Jonathan Jacobs, the founding partner of Digital Natives Group, to clarify a lot of misconceptions around the role of social media in promoting books. He answers one of the big questions out there, “why is it that many authors with large social media platforms tend to underperform when it comes to book sales?” Follow along to this insightful conversation as Jonathan discusses how to leverage social media properly, how to build an author presence, and how to create lasting relationships and find your best cheerleaders.
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In the world of marketing, one of the best ways to maximize profitability when releasing a book is through course creation. It allows you not only to connect with your readers on a deeper level but also to dissect your knowledge into easy-to-digest ideas. But many authors are misled by their desire to simply earn money in this regard, and thus are doomed to fail in both ventures. Sharing the right strategies in intertwining book authorship and offering courses with Robin Colucci is Lisa Pezik, a business strategist, speaker, and top international Amazon best-selling author. She explains how to properly approach three kinds of audience groups when providing a book-course combo, the importance of allowing your genuine self to reflect in your offers, and the right way to price such an intangible item without sacrificing your own worth.
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Audiobook sales is the most rapidly growing segment of the publishing industry. Registering double-digit revenue growth for the past few years, it is the fastest growing segment in book sales. How can authors capitalize on this massive opportunity? Robin Colucci brings on an expert to the podcast to help us understand this booming book format. Tina Dietz is an award-winning and internationally acclaimed speaker, audiobook publisher, corporate podcast producer, and vocal leadership expert. Her company, Twin Flames Studios, helps authors and experts amplify their voices through audiobooks, podcasting, and other means. Listen to her discussion with Robin and learn why you should be looking into audiobooks as the new golden goose in publishing.
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In the final stages of book publishing, the devil is often in the details; the wrong title, subtitle or cover design can be your book’s undoing, no matter how profound your content may be inside. PickFu helps writers get around this problem by doing what is perhaps the best way to learn what makes readers buy – by asking them directly. PickFu does all kinds of market research, but authors have a special place in the company’s success, especially back when it started in 2008. The company’s Chief Marketing Officer, Kim Kohatsu joins Robin Colucci to discuss how authors can use the PickFu platform to sharpen their book titles, select the most appealing covers and get feedback from the reading demographic of their choosing. With these details out of the way, you are one step closer to positioning yourself as a thought leader in your space!
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Ten years since the publication of Let Love In, the international bestselling book continues to resonate with people all over the world. The book has all the makings of a classic: a timeless message and unabashed authenticity that comes from an author who is not afraid to get vulnerable on the pages to help other people who are going through what she had. That person is Debra Maldonado (formerly Debi Berndt). In this episode, Debi joins her mentor, and your host, Robin Colucci to revisit her journey in creating a masterpiece that still helps people today. We also get to have a preview of what Debi is working on now that she has gone beyond the book’s initial success and taken her career in a massive upward trajectory. This episode ass a boatload of value that any aspiring author won't want to miss.
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For some time now, the literary industry has been struggling to break away from its predominantly white image and allow diverse voices to share the stage. After the killing of George Floyd and the world-wide outrage that followed, staying silent about racial injustice is not an option, regardless of what industry you're in. In this episode, Robin Colucci converses with literary agent, Heather Jackson, on the racial inequalities that exist in publishing, especially those affecting Black authors. They explore this pervasive issue from different angles and discuss possible solutions for the future of diversity in publishing.
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This is the second episode in a mini two-part series on publicity for authors.
At what point should an author hire a publicist to help promote their book? In this episode, you will learn that there is no such thing as a full DFY approach to book marketing. There is much to do in terms of “building a base” – a genuine audience, an organic community who considers you an expert in your field – and it takes a lot of time and effort to do that. Does it sound like a lot of work? That’s because it is. And no publicist can ever replace your role in that regard, no matter how critical they can be in all other aspects. One of two in this two-part series on the topic of publicity, PR expert Nicole Dunn gets brutally honest about this in this conversation with host Robin Colucci. Running her own PR firm called Dunn Pellier Media since 2008, Nicole specializes in PR and media services for clients in the health, wellness, fitness, beauty, and lifestyle industries. Throughout the years, she has built a trusted brand that counts bestsellers among its satisfied customers. Nicole is passionate about spreading more nourishing news around wellness in the media. Listen in as she shares some tips on what authors should focus on to get people’s attention and maximize the visibility of their books.
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Join The Author’s Corner Community today:
- https://robincolucci.com/
This is the first episode in a mini two-part series on publicity for authors.
The wider media can reach, the more we can get our messages out there. With social media joining the traditional media outlets, it is safe to say that there are tremendous opportunities and possibilities out there that can take our business to the next level. Especially in this day and age, there is no excuse not to utilize these digital assets. Helping you leverage these things and more, Robin Colucci interviews Jill Lublin as part of the two-part miniseries on the topic of publicity. Jill is an international speaker on the topics of radical influence, publicity, networking, kindness, and referrals. She shares with us some insights and tips and tricks on how we can go across all digital platforms by getting our message right. She also lets us take a peek into her book, The Profit of Kindness, and reveals some of the myths about publicity that could guide us in taking action towards promoting our books.
Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share!
- Here’s How »
Join The Author’s Corner Community today:
- https://robincolucci.com/