Authors Who Lead - Learn to write a book from bestselling authors and leaders

Send us Fan MailWhether you’ve dreamed of being an author for decades or you’re just starting to put pen to paper, there’s one constant truth: writing—and finishing—a book is no small feat. On this episode of the Authors Who Lead podcast, I want to dive into the hidden obstacles that prevent most aspiring writers from becoming published authors. Drawing from my own journey (including a 24-year gap between my writing dreams and writing reality!), I lay out three major reasons books go unfinished—and what, exactly, you can do about it.Timestamp:00:00 Why your book won’t succeed05:10 Discovering a teaching career07:12 Struggling with writing a manuscript11:32 The impact of a book14:00 Letting go of writing perfection18:02 Understanding intrusive thoughts20:12 Encouragement to subscribe and reviewFull show notesCOMMUNITY PROGRAMS📚 Write and Publish your book🤫 Secret Podcast: Born to Write, Scared to Start⭐ You're Allowed to Write This BookCONNECT📷 Instagram🎬 TikTok👫🏻 Facebook💼 LinkedIn🐦‍⬛ Twitter🤝🏻 Apply to be a GuestLEAVE A REVIEW✍🏻 Review on Apple Podcasts✍️ Review on Spotify🖱️ Episode Webpage

Send us Fan MailPublishing a book is often seen as a milestone—a badge of honor for accomplished leaders and coaches. But as I reveal in my conversation on the Authors Who Lead podcast, writing a book does more than boost your authority. It can crystallize your message, become a launching pad for new opportunities, and ultimately serve as a powerful legacy that outlives you.Timestamp:00:00 Discussing Mark's leadership book06:01 Impact of publishing a book07:02 Seeking publishing validation12:54 Writing process and early feedback14:11 Discovering my writing passion17:00 Discovering the TED Talk idea22:36 Turning book into Kindle edition25:07 Crafting a clear book message28:27 Writing my first book32:40 Choosing between fame and fortune33:51 Using visual models for writingFull show notesCOMMUNITY PROGRAMS📚 Write and Publish your book🤫 Secret Podcast: Born to Write, Scared to Start⭐ You're Allowed to Write This BookCONNECT📷 Instagram🎬 TikTok👫🏻 Facebook💼 LinkedIn🐦‍⬛ Twitter🤝🏻 Apply to be a GuestLEAVE A REVIEW✍🏻 Review on Apple Podcasts✍️ Review on Spotify🖱️ Episode Webpage

Send us Fan MailWriting a memoir is never an easy feat—especially when the story being told explores the deeply personal terrain of trauma, healing, and the reclamation of one’s agency. In this episode of the "Authors Who Lead" podcast, I sit down with Chelsey Valeri—licensed clinical social worker, trauma therapist, and debut memoirist—as she offers an honest glimpse into how she crafted her book, Healed Enough. Through our conversation, you'll get a multidimensional understanding of complex trauma—from both clinical and lived perspectives—and what it takes to turn such experiences into a story that resonates.Timestamp:00:00 Deciding to write a memoir05:12 Complex PTSD not in DSM07:08 Understanding trauma's impact on mental health10:29 Discussing personal healing journey14:45 Feeling vulnerable but understood19:34 Writing during health challenges21:29 Navigating a patriarchal society26:06 Healing Foundation and trauma care29:12 Editing process for publishing33:12 Discussing book feedback and approach37:18 Writing a clinician's hand guide39:40 Challenges in trauma therapy training43:36 Discussing a valuable trauma bookFull show notesCOMMUNITY PROGRAMS📚 Write and Publish your book🤫 Secret Podcast: Born to Write, Scared to Start⭐ You're Allowed to Write This BookCONNECT📷 Instagram🎬 TikTok👫🏻 Facebook💼 LinkedIn🐦‍⬛ Twitter🤝🏻 Apply to be a GuestLEAVE A REVIEW✍🏻 Review on Apple Podcasts✍️ Review on Spotify🖱️ Episode Webpage

Send us Fan MailFor many of you, the journey from idea to manuscript can feel daunting and filled with self-doubt. In this heartfelt solo episode, I share personal insights and experiences from a life devoted to writing, coaching, and the pursuit of dreams. This post explores key takeaways from the episode, offering both encouragement and practical wisdom for anyone standing at the threshold of their own writing journey.Timestamp:00:00 Deciding to write a book03:38 Pursuing travel through writing07:23 Importance of finishing your book11:55 Writing and living in SpainFull show notesCOMMUNITY PROGRAMS📚 Write and Publish your book🤫 Secret Podcast: Born to Write, Scared to Start⭐ You're Allowed to Write This BookCONNECT📷 Instagram🎬 TikTok👫🏻 Facebook💼 LinkedIn🐦‍⬛ Twitter🤝🏻 Apply to be a GuestLEAVE A REVIEW✍🏻 Review on Apple Podcasts✍️ Review on Spotify🖱️ Episode Webpage

Send us Fan MailBehind every aspiring author I meet is a burning question: “Does what I have to say really matter?” I want to shine a light on this today, urging you to look beyond the mechanics of writing and toward the deeper reason you write at all. Writing a book is about so much more than perfect prose or bestseller status—it’s about sharing your unique message, stepping into leadership, and leaving a mark on the world that only you can.Timestamp:00:00 Discussing the book's narrative style04:02 Navigating medical language barriers09:24 Beginning memoir research process11:02 Crafting an engaging memoir narrative14:52 Balancing honesty in writing18:58 The impact of Blue Fairy19:56 Reader feedback on helpful book details23:06 Teaching 12-year-olds memoir28:10 Discussing future writing ideas30:26 Starting to write a novel36:19 Dealing with a friend's grief39:03 Writing a fictionalized series41:04 Preview of her art journal44:14 Advocating for your messageFull show notesCOMMUNITY PROGRAMS📚 Write and Publish your book🤫 Secret Podcast: Born to Write, Scared to Start⭐ You're Allowed to Write This BookCONNECT📷 Instagram🎬 TikTok👫🏻 Facebook💼 LinkedIn🐦‍⬛ Twitter🤝🏻 Apply to be a GuestLEAVE A REVIEW✍🏻 Review on Apple Podcasts✍️ Review on Spotify🖱️ Episode Webpage

Send us Fan MailBehind every aspiring author I meet is a burning question: “Does what I have to say really matter?” I want to shine a light on this today, urging you to look beyond the mechanics of writing and toward the deeper reason you write at all. Writing a book is about so much more than perfect prose or bestseller status—it’s about sharing your unique message, stepping into leadership, and leaving a mark on the world that only you can.Timestamp:00:00 Seeking significance through writing04:34 Message beneath the words09:31 Small ideas spark big impact10:54 Small ideas, big impactFull show notesCOMMUNITY PROGRAMS📚 Write and Publish your book🤫 Secret Podcast: Born to Write, Scared to Start⭐ You're Allowed to Write This BookCONNECT📷 Instagram🎬 TikTok👫🏻 Facebook💼 LinkedIn🐦‍⬛ Twitter🤝🏻 Apply to be a GuestLEAVE A REVIEW✍🏻 Review on Apple Podcasts✍️ Review on Spotify🖱️ Episode Webpage

Send us Fan MailI often feel we take communication for granted, assuming it’s just about relaying information. Yet, in my latest conversation, I sat down with Sage Hobbs—author of Naked Communication—to explore how communication rooted in authenticity and curiosity can radically alter our relationships at work, at home, and within ourselves. Our talk was a candid look at what it really takes to write a book, launch it (twice), and confront your own vulnerabilities.Timestamp:00:00 Writing to connect authentically05:28 Reflections on teaching and growth08:18 Writing reveals self-discovery11:30 Loss, reflection, and renewal14:01 Reflections on growth and change17:02 Curiosity can transform the world22:17 Facing fear through writing24:13 Merging grief and professional growth28:57 Connection over job titles30:13 Who is this not for?33:56 Connecting with the authorFull show notesCOMMUNITY PROGRAMS📚 Write and Publish your book🤫 Secret Podcast: Born to Write, Scared to Start⭐ You're Allowed to Write This BookCONNECT📷 Instagram🎬 TikTok👫🏻 Facebook💼 LinkedIn🐦‍⬛ Twitter🤝🏻 Apply to be a GuestLEAVE A REVIEW✍🏻 Review on Apple Podcasts✍️ Review on Spotify🖱️ Episode Webpage

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of Authors Who Lead, I sit down with Samantha Sweetwater to discuss how her book True Human: Reimagining Ourselves at the End of Our World evolved from scattered ideas into a cohesive manuscript through patience, humility, and honesty.We explore what it means to write during a time of ecological, technological, and cultural transformation—and why authorship requires more than inspiration. Samantha shares the four-year journey of shaping her ideas, letting go of what didn’t belong, and allowing the book to mature into its final form.Timestamp:00:00 Reimagining humanity in the Anthropocene04:10 Writing to reveal oneself08:56 Guide to radical civilizational transition10:13 Responses to the personal transformation chapter13:24 Navigating a transcontextual crisis16:34 Patience nurtures ideas into form20:49 Why this book resonates24:56 AI cover art collaboration29:09 Authors’ long-term success plan32:35 Regenerative devotion and resilience35:01 Books thrive through community38:03 True Human: the author journeyFull show notesCOMMUNITY PROGRAMS📚 Write and Publish your book🤫 Secret Podcast: Born to Write, Scared to Start⭐ You're Allowed to Write This BookCONNECT📷 Instagram🎬 TikTok👫🏻 Facebook💼 LinkedIn🐦‍⬛ Twitter🤝🏻 Apply to be a GuestLEAVE A REVIEW✍🏻 Review on Apple Podcasts✍️ Review on Spotify🖱️ Episode Webpage

Send us Fan MailIf you’re waiting for a surge of confidence before you start writing your book, you’re not alone. I’ve spent years hosting the Authors Who Lead Podcast, talking with authors at every stage of the journey, and one belief comes up again and again: “I just need a little more confidence before I begin.”Here’s the truth I’ve learned—confidence rarely shows up first. Action does. And waiting for confidence is often the very thing keeping us stuck.Timestamp:00:00 Confidence comes through action05:14 Embracing change and self-expression08:13 Take action, publish your book10:47 Purpose drives creationFull show notesCOMMUNITY PROGRAMS📚 Write and Publish your book🤫 Secret Podcast: Born to Write, Scared to Start⭐ You're Allowed to Write This BookCONNECT📷 Instagram🎬 TikTok👫🏻 Facebook💼 LinkedIn🐦‍⬛ Twitter🤝🏻 Apply to be a GuestLEAVE A REVIEW✍🏻 Review on Apple Podcasts✍️ Review on Spotify🖱️ Episode Webpage

Send us Fan MailIn this episode, I sit down with Barbara Caver, a film and television production executive, passionate traveler, and first-time memoirist. Her debut memoir, A Little Piece of Cuba, weaves together Cuban heritage, family memory, and a life-changing trip in a way that resonates far beyond cultural boundaries.In our conversation, Barbara and I talk openly about the creative process, emotional roadblocks, and how lived experience slowly becomes a finished book. What emerged is a powerful reminder for aspiring authors: memoir isn’t about recording everything that happened — it’s about listening to what memory insists on telling.Timestamp:00:00 Cuban heritage memoir journey06:15 Writing progress through collaboration06:56 Writing, reflection, and evolving stories12:17 Overcoming challenges to keep writing16:26 From idea to published book18:49 Second-generation language struggles22:51 Memoir and memory’s subjectivity23:46 Cinder Bottom: a fictional memoir27:13 Unintentional intimacy in writing33:05 Daily writing builds momentum35:00 Seeing and describing deeper37:32 Author updates and Substack contentFull show notesCOMMUNITY PROGRAMS📚 Write and Publish your bookCONNECT📷 Instagram🎬 TikTok👫🏻 Facebook💼 LinkedIn🐦‍⬛ Twitter🤝🏻 Apply to be a GuestLEAVE A REVIEW✍🏻 Review on Apple Podcasts✍️ Review on Spotify🖱️ Episode Webpage

Send us Fan MailWhat if grief wasn’t something to get over, but something that could teach us how to live?In this deeply moving conversation, Azul Terronez sits down with executive, speaker, and author Kathryn Henry to discuss her memoir, A Dime to Say I Love You. After losing her wife Lisa following a decade-long battle with cancer, Kathryn began writing not just to remember, but to heal, to listen, and to live more fully.This is a conversation about love, non-attachment, forgiveness, and what happens when writing becomes a spiritual practice. It’s also about trusting the story that wants to be written and letting it change you in the process.Timestamp:00:00 Lessons through loss and healing05:31 Unexpected endings and acceptance08:18 Rediscovering our true essence09:49 Forgiveness: a gift to yourself16:28 Memoir writing and reflection17:19 Intentional introspection and spirituality22:17 Honoring experiences amid challenges24:57 Living a life I love28:52 Peaceful passing and dime moments31:16 Audiobook out now: Katherine HenryFull show notesCOMMUNITY PROGRAMS📚 Write and Publish your bookCONNECT📷 Instagram🎬 TikTok👫🏻 Facebook💼 LinkedIn🐦‍⬛ Twitter🤝🏻 Apply to be a GuestLEAVE A REVIEW✍🏻 Review on Apple Podcasts✍️ Review on Spotify🖱️ Episode Webpage

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of Authors Who Lead, I return with a heartfelt update and an honest call to action for anyone dreaming of writing a book. This episode isn’t just an update—it’s a raw exploration of why telling your story truly matters, how the writing process can change your life, and what to do when self-doubt creeps in. I’m reminded again that the journey to authorship is about much more than putting words on a page. It’s about finding your truth and having the courage to share it with the world.Timestamp:00:00 Behind the scenes of writing04:26 Rediscovering myself through podcasting08:10 Listening to students wisely11:30 Writing, purpose, and perseverance15:24 Your voice mattersFull show notesCOMMUNITY PROGRAMS📚 Write and Publish your bookCONNECT📷 Instagram🎬 TikTok👫🏻 Facebook💼 LinkedIn🐦‍⬛ Twitter🤝🏻 Apply to be a GuestLEAVE A REVIEW✍🏻 Review on Apple Podcasts✍️ Review on Spotify🖱️ Episode Webpage

Send us Fan MailJulia Packwood has the idea. She feels the call. She even has deadlines and bylines. Yet when she sits down to write, it feels like a battle.In this episode, Azul reframes that struggle: the hard feeling is not a problem to be fixed, but rather a rite of passage. Then the conversation turns practical, moving the writing practice out of the office and into nature, separating drafting from editing, and measuring progress by words, not time.A warm, honest episode for anyone trying to write a book while raising kids, building a business, or living a full life.Timestamps:00:00 Who Julia is and what she teaches01:06 The writing battle: deadlines help, but it still feels hard03:04 Reframe: “This is how writing is,” and nothing is wrong with you04:53 Write outside the box, literally07:41 Transcribe later, create first09:11 Intuition vs “business advice” about the right audience14:12 Your expertise is your perspective, not your facts17:19 Nature-led play, and why parents need simplicity20:11 Let go of “chapters” and follow seasons25:14 AI hooks vs human presence28:31 Bold claims, fierce wonderings, and why outlines can trap you34:27 Count words, not time42:05 Feeling exposed, sharing the journey anyway44:51 The takeaway: resistance is the pathFull show notesCOMMUNITY PROGRAMS📚 Write and Publish your bookCONNECT📷 Instagram🎬 TikTok👫🏻 Facebook💼 LinkedIn🐦‍⬛ Twitter🤝🏻 Apply to be a GuestLEAVE A REVIEW✍🏻 Review on Apple Podcasts✍️ Review on Spotify🖱️ Episode Webpage

Send us Fan MailWhat does it really take to deliver a TEDx talk that resonates? In this episode of Authors Who Lead, communication expert Alexia Vernon and TEDx speaker Kaia Vernon-Oliveira share what authors need to know about developing a powerful big idea, connecting with an audience, and building speaking confidence that opens doors.Timestamp:00:00 Introduction to Alexia Vernon and Kaia Vernon-Oliveira01:11 What has changed in the TEDx landscape03:45 Why authors should build speaking experience before TEDx05:13 What event organizers really look for in speakers06:40 Kaia’s TEDx journey and choosing her topic08:46 Why passion matters more than fear10:28 Structuring a talk for impact15:22 Common mistakes speakers make18:12 How to connect with an audience on stage23:40 Practical techniques for presence and eye contact25:27 Soul Stirring event overview30:51 Final advice for aspiring speakersFull show notesCOMMUNITY PROGRAMS📚 Write and Publish your bookCONNECT📷 Instagram🎬 TikTok👫🏻 Facebook💼 LinkedIn🐦‍⬛ Twitter🤝🏻 Apply to be a GuestLEAVE A REVIEW✍🏻 Review on Apple Podcasts✍️ Review on Spotify🖱️ Episode Webpage

Send us Fan MailAfter eight years of hosting Authors Who Lead, Azul finally sits down again with the man who inspired the show from the very beginning: Dr. Gay Hendricks, author of The Big Leap, Conscious Loving, and his new memoir, Loving Life.In this intimate, spiritually rich conversation, Gay shares the stories behind his memoir, the pivotal moment on the ice that changed everything, the quiet teachers in his family (including his Aunt Kat), and how suffering can open the doorway to your genius. This is more than an interview—it’s an invitation to remember who you really are.Timestamp:00:00 – Welcome & intro00:32 – Why the podcast began01:07 – Introducing Dr. Gay Hendricks02:33 – Why he wrote a memoir05:06 – Spiritual moments that shaped him09:27 – Seeking answers at a young age14:43 – Understanding your zone of genius19:10 – Aunt Kat’s influence26:29 – Life stages & growth30:17 – The moment that changed everything35:26 – Why Loving Life is transformativeFull show notesCOMMUNITY PROGRAMS📚 Write and Publish your bookCONNECT📷 Instagram🎬 TikTok👫🏻 Facebook💼 LinkedIn🐦‍⬛ Twitter🤝🏻 Apply to be a GuestLEAVE A REVIEW✍🏻 Review on Apple Podcasts✍️ Review on Spotify🖱️ Episode Webpage

Send us Fan MailYou’re a coach, entrepreneur, or leader with a powerful message. You know a book would expand your influence, elevate your authority, and open doors. So why does it still feel impossible to start?In this solo episode, Azul breaks down why brilliant, experienced leaders get stuck — and why your book is not a side project. You’ll learn the exact mindset shift needed to overcome overwhelm, silence self-doubt, and take the first real step toward becoming a published authority.If you've been “waiting for the right time” to start, this is the episode that will move you into action.Timestamp:00:00 — Why your book idea matters more than you think01:40 — The real reason coaches and creatives feel stuck03:25 — Introducing the private podcast: Born to Write, Scared to Start05:00 — How writing your book builds authority and impact06:52 — A gift to help you take the first step08:16 — Final encouragement + holiday wishesFull show notesCOMMUNITY PROGRAMS📚 Write and Publish your bookCONNECT📷 Instagram🎬 TikTok👫🏻 Facebook💼 LinkedIn🐦‍⬛ Twitter🤝🏻 Apply to be a GuestLEAVE A REVIEW✍🏻 Review on Apple Podcasts✍️ Review on Spotify🖱️ Episode Webpage

Send us Fan MailNovelist Carla Malden joins Azul to discuss her latest book, Playback—a nostalgic, time-traveling story about reconciling past ideals with present reality. They explore the character of Mari Caldwell, Carla’s cinematic writing style, and the emotional process of co-authoring a memoir with her father, Oscar-winning actor Karl Malden.Timestamp:0:00 — Introducing Carla Malden and Playback3:10 — The nostalgia and time travel behind Mari Caldwell’s story8:00 — Writing a novel that stands alone but continues a character’s arc10:33 — The influence of Carla’s screenwriting background15:00 — Co-writing a memoir with her father, Karl Malden20:26 — Writing process and lessons from crafting multiple genres24:14 — Plotter vs. pantser: How Carla approaches storytelling27:44 — Shifting trends in Hollywood and timeless storytelling30:04 — Advice for authors struggling with doubt or imposter syndrome34:00 — What’s next for CarlaFull show notesCOMMUNITY PROGRAMS📚 Write and Publish your bookCONNECT📷 Instagram🎬 TikTok👫🏻 Facebook💼 LinkedIn🐦‍⬛ Twitter🤝🏻 Apply to be a GuestLEAVE A REVIEW✍🏻 Review on Apple Podcasts✍️ Review on Spotify🖱️ Episode Webpage

Send us Fan MailIn a world where everything online disappears in 24 hours, why are books still the thing we remember? I recently sat down with Rob Walling — a serial entrepreneur who has started six companies, bootstrapped five of them, and written multiple bestselling books, including Start Small, Stay Small and The SaaS Playbook.What struck me most in our conversation wasn’t just his track record. It was how deeply he believes in books as a creative act and a lasting force in a noisy world.Timestamp:00:00 – Why Rob felt familiar before we even met01:26 – Why books still matter in a world of social media02:57 – How Start Small, Stay Small quietly became a classic04:06 – Being “first to the niche” and serving developers-turned-founders05:06 – Validating a book idea with a landing page and real emails07:29 – Is SaaS creative? How Rob channels his creativity into business and books11:13 – Why I started my podcast to interview Gay Hendricks17:45 – Modeling creativity and entrepreneurship for our kids20:11 – Rob’s take on AI, startups, and the future of content34:22 – The lasting power of books vs. content40:07 – The books that changed Rob’s life47:11 – What his next book will cover and why it mattersFull show notesCOMMUNITY PROGRAMS📚 Write and Publish your bookCONNECT📷 Instagram🎬 TikTok👫🏻 Facebook💼 LinkedIn🐦‍⬛ Twitter🤝🏻 Apply to be a GuestLEAVE A REVIEW✍🏻 Review on Apple Podcasts✍️ Review on Spotify🖱️ Episode Webpage

Send us Fan MailWriting a book isn’t just about putting words on a page — it’s about letting others help you shape your message into its most powerful form. Azul Terronez explains the stages of editing, how to find the right editor, and how collaboration turns a manuscript into a masterpiece.Timestamp:00:00 Introduction and editing insights04:02 Editing voice, tone, and flow07:46 Choosing editors: curated platforms09:48 Writing with an editorFull show notesCOMMUNITY PROGRAMS📚 Write and Publish your bookCONNECT📷 Instagram🎬 TikTok👫🏻 Facebook💼 LinkedIn🐦‍⬛ Twitter🤝🏻 Apply to be a GuestLEAVE A REVIEW✍🏻 Review on Apple Podcasts✍️ Review on Spotify🖱️ Episode Webpage

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of the Authors Who Lead podcast, I welcome Dr. Shannon Irvine, an accomplished neuropsychologist, entrepreneur, and founder of the SINC Neurocoach Models. This riveting conversation peels back the curtain on Dr. Shannon’s journey from idea gestation to book launch, giving us an inside look at the neuroscience-driven method she shares in her new book, The 67-Day Year. Her work blends scientific rigor with practical wisdom and timeless principles, helping anyone—from new moms to high-powered CEOs—unlock levels of achievement they once thought impossible.Timestamp:00:00 Sharing life-changing tools broadly04:48 Breaking through entrepreneurial barriers07:00 Neuroscience boosts results effectively10:37 Mastering change in 67 days15:25 Aligning your brain for goals18:29 Overcoming fear to create21:44 Azul’s vision and goal evolution25:40 Embracing your writing style30:02 The call to share wisdom31:20 Flip fear, share wisdomFull show notesCOMMUNITY PROGRAMS📚 Write and Publish your bookCONNECT📷 Instagram🎬 TikTok👫🏻 Facebook💼 LinkedIn🐦‍⬛ Twitter🤝🏻 Apply to be a GuestLEAVE A REVIEW✍🏻 Review on Apple Podcasts✍️ Review on Spotify🖱️ Episode Webpage

Send us Fan MailWriting a book is a dream for many, but not every idea deserves 200 pages. In this solo episode of Authors Who Lead, I unpack one of the most common questions I hear from aspiring authors: How do I know if my idea is big enough for a book—or if it’s better off as a blog post, podcast, or talk?This question matters more than people realize. Books take time, energy, and long-term commitment. So before you dive in, let’s figure out what really makes a book-worthy idea—and how to avoid common pitfalls that keep writers stuck or stalled.Timestamp:00:00 Determining if your idea’s a book05:49 Books: tools for transformation07:26 Blog posts aren’t books10:32 Beyond tips: broadening book appeal16:01 Evaluating your book’s purpose16:57 Five-day writing challengeFull show notesCOMMUNITY PROGRAMS📚 Write and Publish your bookCONNECT📷 Instagram🎬 TikTok👫🏻 Facebook💼 LinkedIn🐦‍⬛ Twitter🤝🏻 Apply to be a GuestLEAVE A REVIEW✍🏻 Review on Apple Podcasts✍️ Review on Spotify🖱️ Episode Webpage

Send us Fan MailWhat does it really mean to be yourself in a world that rewards conformity and disconnection?In this episode of Authors Who Lead, I sit down with Amy Cerny Vasterling—a public speaker, author, and intuitive—to discuss her powerful new book and what it means to live beyond the model society presents to us. With two decades of research and deeply personal insights, Amy shares how we become disconnected from ourselves—and how to reconnect with our inner truth.This conversation is one of the most thought-provoking I’ve had, and I know it will resonate with writers, creatives, and anyone feeling the stirrings of something deeper.Timestamp:00:00 Origins of a book on narcissism03:06 Writing journey: from months to years09:25 The status quo of self-deception11:07 Challenging spiritual models globally13:24 Questioning educational norms19:20 Innovative teaching: students as authors23:08 Future book explores time perception23:55 Innate intuition and self-discovery27:34 Rethinking disability and contribution32:07 Unconventional success in education36:05 Overcoming fear for self-expression37:22 Join us on Authors Who LeadFull show notesCOMMUNITY PROGRAMS📚 Write and Publish your bookCONNECT📷 Instagram🎬 TikTok👫🏻 Facebook💼 LinkedIn🐦‍⬛ Twitter🤝🏻 Apply to be a GuestLEAVE A REVIEW✍🏻 Review on Apple Podcasts✍️ Review on Spotify🖱️ Episode Webpage

Send us Fan MailIf you’ve ever dreamed of writing a book but find yourself stuck in “prep mode,” you’re not alone. In this solo episode of Authors Who Lead, I delve into the real mindset blocks that prevent aspiring authors from taking that crucial first step.After years of coaching writers—and navigating my own resistance—I’ve identified three common myths that stop talented storytellers from sharing their message. Here’s how you can move past them and finally start writing.Timestamp:00:00 Dream deferred: the writing struggle04:08 Embrace creativity over rigid outlines06:23 Reassess priorities, not time09:39 Transform self-perception, pursue goals12:58 Embark on your writing journeyFull show notesCOMMUNITY PROGRAMS📚 Write and Publish your bookCONNECT📷 Instagram🎬 TikTok👫🏻 Facebook💼 LinkedIn🐦‍⬛ Twitter🤝🏻 Apply to be a GuestLEAVE A REVIEW✍🏻 Review on Apple Podcasts✍️ Review on Spotify🖱️ Episode Webpage

Send us Fan MailFor so many authors, writing a book feels like the pinnacle of their work—the culmination of years of learning, creativity, and leadership. But when the final chapter is written, there’s often a gap. Those powerful ideas don’t always leap from the page into programs, products, or lasting impact.On this episode of Authors Who Lead, I sit down with Charlotte Crowther—founder of Signature Framework—to explore how authors can codify their ideas into clear, visual frameworks that fuel growth, clarity, and influence. If you’re writing a book or already have one out in the world, this conversation helps you think bigger about what comes next.Timestamp:00:00 Visual methodology coaching success03:14 Challenges in translating books to business09:20 Overthinking hinders authentic creativity12:18 Creative incubation strategy15:41 Courageous leadership through storytelling18:40 Magic of visual thinking20:09 Visual aids enhance communication26:25 From idea to action: Boss Mums29:47 Clarifying purpose for action-driven results32:11 Visual branding from written content35:26 Appreciation for creative guidanceFull show notesCOMMUNITY PROGRAMS📚 Write and Publish your bookCONNECT📷 Instagram🎬 TikTok👫🏻 Facebook💼 LinkedIn🐦‍⬛ Twitter🤝🏻 Apply to be a GuestLEAVE A REVIEW✍🏻 Review on Apple Podcasts✍️ Review on Spotify🖱️ Episode Webpage

Send us Fan MailIn today’s world, where knowledge is abundant and AI can churn out answers in seconds, readers crave something deeper—authenticity.On this episode of Authors Who Lead, I share lessons I’ve learned working with authors who want to lead with their story, not just their expertise. I reflect on my work with bestselling author and negotiation expert Kwame Christian to explore why embracing your uniqueness isn’t just helpful—it’s essential.Timestamp:00:00 Importance of personal perspective03:43 Kwame’s early negotiation journey06:55 Finding confidence through conflict12:50 Authenticity over completeness in writing14:47 Join Authors Who Lead for writing success16:42 Book whisperer Azul TerronezFull show notesCOMMUNITY PROGRAMS📚 Write and Publish your bookCONNECT📷 Instagram🎬 TikTok👫🏻 Facebook💼 LinkedIn🐦‍⬛ Twitter🤝🏻 Apply to be a GuestLEAVE A REVIEW✍🏻 Review on Apple Podcasts✍️ Review on Spotify🖱️ Episode Webpage

Send us Fan MailWhen we talk about leadership and entrepreneurship, the conversation often veers toward hustle culture, 80-hour workweeks, and the kind of relentless, sleep-when-you’re-dead mentality that’s glorified on social media. But what’s the real cost?In this episode of Authors Who Lead, I speak with Chris Ducker—entrepreneur, mentor, and author—about the deeply personal experiences that inspire his new book, Long Haul Leader. This isn’t just another business strategy book. It’s a candid, thoughtful guide to lasting success—without sacrificing your health, relationships, or joy.Timestamp:00:00 Struggling post-sabbatical return04:28 Adrenal fatigue and burnout06:25 Leadership chaos guide12:06 Hustle: season, not lifestyle13:45 Balancing entrepreneurship and family life18:24 Importance of relationships and hobbies19:43 Boost productivity: rediscover nature23:54 Embracing diverse ideas28:48 Choices impact recovery journey31:01 Focus over followers: embrace clarity33:19 Finding joy in simple living37:23 Chris’s reflective return to England39:40 Prioritizing relationships over hustle45:34 Book cover decision reflections47:43 Writing journey and future books49:46 Long Haul Leader launch detailsFull show notesCOMMUNITY PROGRAMS📚 Write and Publish your bookCONNECT📷 Instagram🎬 TikTok👫🏻 Facebook💼 LinkedIn🐦‍⬛ Twitter🤝🏻 Apply to be a GuestLEAVE A REVIEW✍🏻 Review on Apple Podcasts✍️ Review on Spotify🖱️ Episode Webpage

Send us Fan MailWhen I think of someone too busy to write a book, Dr. Amy McMichael immediately comes to mind. She juggles her roles as a professor in the Department of Dermatology at Wake Forest School of Medicine, a practicing dermatologist, and a mentor to countless students. She has every reason not to add “author” to her already full plate. But in our conversation on the Authors Who Lead podcast, it becomes clear that it’s her deep commitment to mentorship that fuels her decision to write her book, Perfect Match: Secure Your Residency Spot and Achieve Greatness in Dermatology.Timestamp:00:00 Inspired to write a book05:31 Editing process and writing insights08:15 Transitioning from handwriting to dictation11:27 Book gains academic support15:12 Joyful writing and mentorship reflection17:03 Mentorship: my lifelong passion18:53 Mentorship in medical education23:01 Supportive mentorship in dermatology28:19 Diverse feedback on written work30:34 Human essays in dermatology34:08 Guidance completes the journey35:58 Dr. Maya Angelou’s adviceFull show notesCOMMUNITY PROGRAMS📚 Write and Publish your bookCONNECT📷 Instagram🎬 TikTok👫🏻 Facebook💼 LinkedIn🐦‍⬛ Twitter🤝🏻 Apply to be a GuestLEAVE A REVIEW✍🏻 Review on Apple Podcasts✍️ Review on Spotify🖱️ Episode Webpage

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of Authors Who Lead, I sit down with Dan Andrews—writer, entrepreneur, and founder of the Dynamite Circle—to dig deep into what it means to write and lead in today’s creative landscape. Our conversation is a goldmine for aspiring authors who wrestle with the pressure to be original, the fear of starting, and the all-too-familiar sting of writer’s block. Together, we explore how the writing process—far from being mystical or reserved for geniuses—is something deeply human, honest, and accessible.Timestamp:00:00 Internet transparency movement origins06:10 Internet explorations and new paths07:29 Tim Ferriss’ timely insight11:12 Early networking and generosity15:51 Conference speech writing hack18:10 Authors’ need for control21:47 Before the Exit insights25:16 Founder mode’s accelerated influence28:19 The 1000-day principle33:22 High output drives success35:49 Creative limits enhance artistic expression37:52 Creative freedom vs. impactful writing42:29 Overcoming creative doubt46:02 Personal podcast narratives48:48 Writing as a life-changing idea53:39 Impulsive ticket purchase regrets55:03 Apprenticeship success at MeetupFull show notesCOMMUNITY PROGRAMS📚 Write and Publish your bookCONNECT📷 Instagram🎬 TikTok👫🏻 Facebook💼 LinkedIn🐦‍⬛ Twitter🤝🏻 Apply to be a GuestLEAVE A REVIEW✍🏻 Review on Apple Podcasts✍️ Review on Spotify🖱️ Episode Webpage

Send us Fan MailWhen the world slowed during the pandemic, Steve Vannoy and I found an unexpected gift in that stillness. We began recording stories from his father, Smokey Vannoy—vivid tales of a bygone West Virginia filled with cinder-bottom towns, red-light districts, and river adventures. What started as a collection of oral history soon grew into something more—a shared book project, born from legacy and love.Adventures in Cinder Bottom became more than a family story. It turned into a vibrant retelling of time, place, and identity. In this episode of Authors Who Lead, as we reflect on our second book, Greenbrier River, we weren’t just navigating the usual creative hurdles of fiction—we were also carrying the weight of loss. Smokey passed away during the writing process, and that grief wove itself into every chapter. What makes these stories resonate is that they’re rooted in real people, real places, and a real desire to honor someone we both deeply admired.Timestamp:00:00 Smokey’s stories and Cinder Bottom03:08 Greenbrier River: growth through stories08:54 Authentic storytelling for Appalachia11:37 Boom to bust: a county’s journey13:32 Avoiding judgment in polarized times16:41 Early integration in segregated America19:34 Living stories: a father’s legacy25:32 Believe in your story26:46 From starter to finisher29:18 Join Authors Who Lead podcastFull show notesCOMMUNITY PROGRAMS📚 Write and Publish your bookCONNECT📷 Instagram🎬 TikTok👫🏻 Facebook💼 LinkedIn🐦‍⬛ Twitter🤝🏻 Apply to be a GuestLEAVE A REVIEW✍🏻 Review on Apple Podcasts✍️ Review on Spotify🖱️ Episode Webpage

Send us Fan MailWhat does it mean to be human in a world increasingly shaped by artificial intelligence? This existential question pulses at the heart of episode 358 of the Authors Who Lead podcast, where I sit down with entrepreneur, investor, and now author Jeff Burningham. Our conversation, anchored in Burningham’s newly released book, The Last Book Written by a Human: Becoming Wise in the Age of AI, explores personal disruption, spiritual awakening, and the bold, hopeful possibilities that AI opens up for humanity.Timestamp:00:00 Unexpected journey: from politics to publishing03:31 Ayurvedic experience awakens creativity07:41 AI: potential and peril11:50 AI and human nature insight14:50 Fostering human connection and flourishing18:21 Embrace humanity over disruption20:23 Embracing AI in education23:31 Embracing transformation: letting go28:14 AI: humanity’s cosmic mirror30:18 Rediscovering humanity amid AI35:29 Present moment, eternal existence39:26 Write without thinking challenge42:38 Jeff burningham’s book pre-sales44:11 Sharing truth from experienceFull show notesCOMMUNITY PROGRAMS📚 Write and Publish your bookCONNECT📷 Instagram🎬 TikTok👫🏻 Facebook💼 LinkedIn🐦‍⬛ Twitter🤝🏻 Apply to be a GuestLEAVE A REVIEW✍🏻 Review on Apple Podcasts✍️ Review on Spotify🖱️ Episode Webpage

Send us Fan MailHave you ever felt like you had a book inside you, but just couldn’t get started? 81% of North Americans believe they have a book in them—but only a tiny fraction ever see that dream to completion. In this episode, I explore the real reasons people don’t write their books, debunk common myths, and share actionable steps to help you finally move from wishing to writing.Timestamp:00:00 Empowering Aspiring Writers05:09 Defining Your Why in Writing06:51 Overcoming Writer’s Block Myths09:56 Born to Write PodcastFull show notesCOMMUNITY PROGRAMS📚 Write and Publish your bookCONNECT📷 Instagram🎬 TikTok👫🏻 Facebook💼 LinkedIn🐦‍⬛ Twitter🤝🏻 Apply to be a GuestLEAVE A REVIEW✍🏻 Review on Apple Podcasts✍️ Review on Spotify🖱️ Episode Webpage

Send us Fan MailIn the world of authorship and digital entrepreneurship, few names carry as much respect as Pat Flynn. In this episode of Authors Who Lead, I share the story of my apprenticeship under Pat—a journey rooted in service, vulnerability, and taking fast, decisive action. Our conversation delved deep into the principles at the core of Pat’s latest book, Lean Learning: How to Achieve More by Learning Less, and unpacked how stepping forward before you feel “ready” is often the key to breakthroughs.Timestamp:00:00 Business breakthrough experience unprepared03:43 From apprentice to bestseller collaborator08:18 Adaptability in a fast-changing world12:28 DIY book formatting journey13:01 Collaborative learning & entrepreneurship journey16:34 Embrace change for real growth21:31 Rowing strategy: power 10 technique23:40 Dedicated focus for creative success27:36 Embrace failure for faster success28:37 Overcoming negativity in entrepreneurship32:01 Exploring the traditional publishing path36:52 Writing under pressure: a 10-day challenge40:35 Pursuing bestseller status with passion44:06 Strategic book sale tactics45:24 Intriguing book title strategyFull show notesCOMMUNITY PROGRAMS📚 Write and Publish your bookCONNECT📷 Instagram🎬 TikTok👫🏻 Facebook💼 LinkedIn🐦‍⬛ Twitter🤝🏻 Apply to be a GuestLEAVE A REVIEW✍🏻 Review on Apple Podcasts✍️ Review on Spotify🖱️ Episode Webpage

Send us Fan MailMany aspiring authors feel a pull to share their wisdom—especially about something as universal yet challenging as parenting. In this episode of Authors Who Lead, Scott Jeffrey Miller offers a refreshingly candid perspective. Miller, an eight-time Wall Street Journal and Amazon bestselling author, recently co-authored "Parenting: Wrong Turns, Right Lessons" with his teenage son, Thatcher. For Miller, writing a parenting book wasn’t just inevitable because of his professional background—it was a way to invite his children into “the family business” of authorship.Timestamp:00:00 Life Insights Through Reading  04:39 Author Mindset & Collab Writing  06:49 Public Life & Maturity  10:31 Teenage Son’s Raw POV  14:32 Building an Author Platform  17:23 Truth About Publishers  21:13 Self-Publishing Journey  23:21 Self-Belief vs. Self-Promo  27:28 Define Your Publishing Why  31:26 Books as Messages  32:46 Growth Reflections  37:07 Rise of Shorter Books  39:59 Career on Course Wins  43:09 Unfinished Book Ideas  46:05 Real Feedback vs. Friends  48:43 Dad Moves & Parenting  51:57 Writing & Self-Incrimination Full show notesCOMMUNITY PROGRAMS📚 Write and Publish your bookCONNECT📷 Instagram🎬 TikTok👫🏻 Facebook💼 LinkedIn🐦‍⬛ Twitter🤝🏻 Apply to be a GuestLEAVE A REVIEW✍🏻 Review on Apple Podcasts✍️ Review on Spotify🖱️ Episode Webpage

Send us Fan MailAnyone who’s ever thought about writing a book knows the feeling: a mix of excitement, hope, and, yes—fear. In this episode of Authors Who Lead, I dive deep into the emotional realm of writing, pulling back the curtain on the ten most common fears that keep writers from taking the next step.Timestamp:00:00 Overcoming book-writing challenges04:23 Organized writing: audience & strategy08:37 Overcoming writing fears10:58 Kaizen: power of small steps15:53 Exclusive podcast for aspiring writers17:09 Join our writing communityFull show notesCOMMUNITY PROGRAMS📚 Write and Publish your bookCONNECT📷 Instagram🎬 TikTok👫🏻 Facebook💼 LinkedIn🐦‍⬛ Twitter🤝🏻 Apply to be a GuestLEAVE A REVIEW✍🏻 Review on Apple Podcasts✍️ Review on Spotify🖱️ Episode Webpage

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of Authors Who Lead, I sit down with Deborah Hammett, author of Salty at 60: Becoming Better Than Retired. Deborah’s story is the bold, honest tale of how she left her thirty-three-year career in education in pursuit of a freer, purpose-filled second act—sailing solo aboard her boat and, eventually, writing a book about her experience.Timestamp:00:00 Trading chalkboards for chart plotters05:16 Sailing while teaching online09:22 Sailing adventure in retirement10:30 Sailing into unforeseen roles16:29 Engine troubleshooting at sea19:44 Fiction’s purpose and life lessons23:51 Docking and anchoring tips tutorial25:31 Women captains and ocean nomads28:00 Overcoming fears in sailing life32:07 Embracing classroom chaos for growth35:05 Embrace continuous flexibilityFull show notesCOMMUNITY PROGRAMS📚 Write and Publish your bookCONNECT📷 Instagram🎬 TikTok👫🏻 Facebook💼 LinkedIn🐦‍⬛ Twitter🤝🏻 Apply to be a GuestLEAVE A REVIEW✍🏻 Review on Apple Podcasts✍️ Review on Spotify🖱️ Episode Webpage

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of Authors Who Lead, I sit down with Brian Andrews and Jeffrey Wilson, the powerhouse writing duo behind the riveting thriller Dark Rising. Both veterans with storied pasts—Brian, a former submarine officer with business acumen, and Jeffrey, a trauma surgeon and Navy veteran—found common ground far from the battlefield: at a thriller writing conference.Their partnership, as Jeffrey jokes, was born of “stalking” at the International Thriller Writers’ ThrillerFest, where their shared backgrounds and values—family, faith, and service—formed a natural foundation for creative collaboration. But it wasn’t instant coauthoring. As Jeffrey explains, “Once we decided that we were gonna do this thing, we went into it knowing we're either gonna become better friends or destroy this friendship forever. Let's see." Thankfully, the outcome was a deeper bond and a writing team that has delivered years of explosive storytelling.Timestamp:00:00 Teamwork in writing: military ethos05:05 Balancing writing with distractions09:39 Inspiration cycles for writers13:14 Embracing pantser writing surprises14:23 Characters’ voices shape the story17:11 Curiosity and predictability in writing21:46 Teaching writing to nonfiction leaders26:19 Embrace imperfection in writing27:52 Antagonist’s two-week mission33:01 Balancing passion and obligations36:33 Supporting veterans in new ventures38:49 Principled characters in chaotic times40:43 Honoring unsung heroes through fictionFull show notesCOMMUNITY PROGRAMS📚 Write and Publish your bookCONNECT📷 Instagram🎬 TikTok👫🏻 Facebook💼 LinkedIn🐦‍⬛ Twitter🤝🏻 Apply to be a GuestLEAVE A REVIEW✍🏻 Review on Apple Podcasts✍️ Review on Spotify🖱️ Episode Webpage

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of Authors Who Lead, I explore a critical and sometimes overlooked question for aspiring writers: Why write a book? While the dream of bestseller status or financial gain is tempting, I challenge listeners to think deeper. Through personal stories, hard truths about book sales, and my journey, I reveal that the value of authoring a book goes far beyond money or external validation.Timestamp:00:00 Is authorship worth it?05:41 Sharing knowledge beyond search09:52 Gifts require effort to excel13:27 Join the author workshops for $9014:13 Inspiring author stories podcastFull show notesCOMMUNITY PROGRAMS📚 Write and Publish your bookCONNECT📷 Instagram🎬 TikTok👫🏻 Facebook💼 LinkedIn🐦‍⬛ Twitter🤝🏻 Apply to be a GuestLEAVE A REVIEW✍🏻 Review on Apple Podcasts✍️ Review on Spotify🖱️ Episode Webpage

Send us Fan MailWhat does it mean to live an impactful life? Is it measured solely by the actions we take, or should we also be paying close attention to the opportunities we let pass by? In this episode of Authors Who Lead, I sit down with Nick Cooney—venture capitalist, founder of Lever VC and the Lever Foundation, and author of What We Don’t Do: Inaction in the Face of Suffering and the Drive to Do More. Through our conversation, we tackle one of the thorniest philosophical questions for anyone aspiring to do good in the world: How might the things we neglect or fail to do shape our ethical legacy as much as our overt actions?Timestamp:00:00 Slow start to book writing06:29 Conscious investing in the FIRE movement07:31 Ethical investment for positive impact11:43 The ethics of everyday choices15:54 Sacrificing for non-family members18:16 Empowerment through individual impact22:26 Individual choices and their impact24:47 What we don’t do insights29:17 Thought-provoking leadership bookFull show notesCOMMUNITY PROGRAMS📚 Write and Publish your bookCONNECT📷 Instagram🎬 TikTok👫🏻 Facebook💼 LinkedIn🐦‍⬛ Twitter🤝🏻 Apply to be a GuestLEAVE A REVIEW✍🏻 Review on Apple Podcasts✍️ Review on Spotify🖱️ Episode Webpage

Send us Fan MailAspiring authors often find themselves at a crossroads, deciding whether to follow their passion for writing or stay in a secure career. In this episode of Authors Who Lead, Azul sits down with Aime Austin, a successful author of legal thrillers, to discuss her unique journey from the courtroom to the writing desk. This insightful conversation uncovers Aime’s path, creative processes, and advice for emerging writers.Timestamp:00:00 Rushed graduate school decision05:38 Endless ideas, choosing the right one08:01 Creating vivid, relatable characters10:45 Writing coach insights on the process13:17 The challenges of authorship18:46 Small publisher’s author marketing advice22:18 Separating from fictional characters23:19 Immersed in writing characters28:12 Unique fan-author relationships29:58 Building writing Communities essential33:53 Marketing insights and writing advice35:59 Writing on social issues40:01 Art’s noble purpose celebratedFull show notesCOMMUNITY PROGRAMS📚 Write and Publish your bookCONNECT📷 Instagram🎬 TikTok👫🏻 Facebook💼 LinkedIn🐦‍⬛ Twitter🤝🏻 Apply to be a GuestLEAVE A REVIEW✍🏻 Review on Apple Podcasts✍️ Review on Spotify🖱️ Episode Webpage

Send us Fan MailWriting and publishing a book is a significant achievement, yet the journey doesn't end there for many authors. The real challenge often lies in keeping the momentum of book sales going, especially after the initial launch euphoria fades. In this episode of Authors Who Lead, I shed light on how authors can master the art of book marketing in 2025. Here, we dive deeper into the insights shared, exploring essential strategies for sustaining and enhancing book sales over time.Timestamp:00:00 Traditional vs. Self-Published: Sales Trends04:40 Write Books About Who You Are08:39 Platform-Specific Content Strategy12:43 Effective Book Promotion Strategies14:58 Book Marketing Workshop & Calendar16:24 Don't Give Up on WritingFull show notesCOMMUNITY PROGRAMS📚 Write and Publish your bookCONNECT📷 Instagram🎬 TikTok👫🏻 Facebook💼 LinkedIn🐦‍⬛ Twitter🤝🏻 Apply to be a GuestLEAVE A REVIEW✍🏻 Review on Apple Podcasts✍️ Review on Spotify🖱️ Episode Webpage

Send us Fan MailWriting a book is often seen as a solitary journey, characterized by the rhythmic tapping of keys as ideas flow from mind to paper. However, the path to becoming an author can be fraught with internal struggles, often rooted in deeper emotional complexities. In this episode of Authors Who Lead, I discuss the profound impact that unresolved trauma can have on a writer's ability to create, emphasizing the importance of authenticity and emotional depth in writing.Timestamp:00:00 Emotional Depth in Writing05:18 Overcoming Self-Doubt in Writing08:27 Innate Drive to Tell Stories10:43 Detach from Persistent Thoughts15:29 The Writer's Dilemma17:38 Emotional Depth in WritingFull show notesCOMMUNITY PROGRAMS📚 Write and Publish your bookCONNECT📷 Instagram🎬 TikTok👫🏻 Facebook💼 LinkedIn🐦‍⬛ Twitter🤝🏻 Apply to be a GuestLEAVE A REVIEW✍🏻 Review on Apple Podcasts✍️ Review on Spotify🖱️ Episode Webpage

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of Authors Who Lead, I sit down with brand strategist and author Jen Kem to discuss the release of her book, "The Unicorn Team." Our conversation explored building teams with unique energy and navigating the traditional publishing world, revealing lessons applicable to anyone's creative journey. Let's delve into the key insights shared and their profound impact on the essence of leadership and authorship.Timestamp:00:00 Strategist’s approach to messaging05:11 Building your idea support team08:38 Sharing my big idea09:55 Achieving unicorn energy15:10 From grassroots to millionaires17:21 Power team formation and expansion23:14 Energy: the ultimate currency24:16 Holistic leadership approach book28:53 Thought leadership vs. misleading books31:19 Redefining books and success35:32 Innovation playbook: reinvent and integrate37:42 Subtitle frustrations in publishingFull show notesCOMMUNITY PROGRAMS📚 Write and Publish your bookCONNECT📷 Instagram🎬 TikTok👫🏻 Facebook💼 LinkedIn🐦‍⬛ Twitter🤝🏻 Apply to be a GuestLEAVE A REVIEW✍🏻 Review on Apple Podcasts✍️ Review on Spotify🖱️ Episode Webpage

Send us Fan MailThe art of writing is much more than crafting sentences or perfecting grammar. It’s a bridge connecting your inner world to the outside, bearing stories untold and messages unsaid. In this episode of the Authors Who Lead, I share a heartfelt reflection on how writing is intertwined with living fully, urging aspiring authors to delve deeper than the superficial act of writing to uncover a more profound personal revelation.Timestamp:00:00 Living Fully Through Writing04:59 Writing What Truly Matters06:31 Write for Yourself First11:56 Embrace Vulnerability to Shape Your Story14:45 Books Should Transform and Inspire16:57 Live Boldly, Inspired by Nature20:11 Join the Author’s JourneyFull show notesCOMMUNITY PROGRAMS📚 Write and Publish your bookCONNECT📷 Instagram🎬 TikTok👫🏻 Facebook💼 LinkedIn🐦‍⬛ Twitter🤝🏻 Apply to be a GuestLEAVE A REVIEW✍🏻 Review on Apple Podcasts✍️ Review on Spotify🖱️ Episode Webpage

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of Authors Who Lead, I converse with Dennis James Sweeney, author of "How to Submit: Getting Your Writing Published with Literary Magazines and Small Presses" and recipient of the Autumn House Rising Writer prize. Our discussion offers valuable insights into a writer's journey, the perseverance needed in the face of rejection, and the power of authenticity in one's writing.Timestamp:00:00 Finding My Way Back to Writing04:37 First Big Publishing Win08:37 Finding My Groove in Academic Circles10:15 Surprising Career Turns After MFA14:07 Students Finding Their Voice18:44 Submit to Places You Enjoy20:48 Writers' Worries vs. Rules23:07 Teaching Without Textbooks or Tests25:54 Writing and Community VibesFull show notesCOMMUNITY PROGRAMS📚 Write and Publish your bookCONNECT📷 Instagram🎬 TikTok👫🏻 Facebook💼 LinkedIn🐦‍⬛ Twitter🤝🏻 Apply to be a GuestLEAVE A REVIEW✍🏻 Review on Apple Podcasts✍️ Review on Spotify🖱️ Episode Webpage

Send us Fan MailStarting a piece of writing can always be intimidating. Whether you've written a book before or are venturing into writing for the first time, the blank page can seem overwhelming. In this episode of Authors Who Lead, I delve into the various aspects of writing challenges and how they can serve as a catalyst to kickstart your writing journey.Timestamp:00:00 Unlock Writing Potential with Challenges04:28 Mindset: Key to Overcoming Writer's Doubts09:31 Overcome Fear: Write and Publish12:44 Overcoming Self-Doubt in Writing14:24 Join Our Writing ChallengeFull show notesCOMMUNITY PROGRAMS📚 Write and Publish your bookCONNECT📷 Instagram🎬 TikTok👫🏻 Facebook💼 LinkedIn🐦‍⬛ Twitter🤝🏻 Apply to be a GuestLEAVE A REVIEW✍🏻 Review on Apple Podcasts✍️ Review on Spotify🖱️ Episode Webpage

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of Authors Who Lead, Denise Cecilia Frost and I delve into the grueling yet rewarding process of writing a novel. The takeaway is clear: the first draft is not about perfection but capturing a great story's essence. Drawing inspiration from Kurt Vonnegut, Denise emphasizes that every character must have a desire or goal to propel the narrative forward. It’s a stage where messiness is not just tolerated but encouraged. Resonating from my experience as a co-writer, I added that revisiting drafts can later refine these raw beginnings into something coherent and compelling.Timestamp:00:00 Interviewing DC Frost, debuting novel with the detective.03:33 Mysteries capture local essence and offer immersive experiences.07:46 Books create intriguing, atmospheric worlds and loneliness.11:39 Commit, stay excited, and seek trusted feedback.15:44 Storytelling involves relationship-building and deep listening.19:21 Struggling with vulnerability in character choices.22:12 First drafts reveal key story elements.25:34 Write, and rewrite frequently; the husband's critique improves specificity.27:58 Female strength, vulnerability, and personal empowerment explored.30:22 Book explores cultural differences, education, and groupthink issues.33:58 Writing fiction allows the sharing of diverse, untold stories.37:20 Stories are vital; writers can revise freely.Full show notesCOMMUNITY PROGRAMS📚 Write and Publish your bookCONNECT📷 Instagram🎬 TikTok👫🏻 Facebook💼 LinkedIn🐦‍⬛ Twitter🤝🏻 Apply to be a GuestLEAVE A REVIEW✍🏻 Review on Apple Podcasts✍️ Review on Spotify🖱️ Episode Webpage

Send us Fan MailEvery author faces challenges when writing a book—whether it's finding the right idea, battling imposter syndrome, or simply staring at a blank screen. You are not alone in this. In this episode of Authors Who Lead, I emphasize that writing isn't a solitary endeavor but a community activity. Let’s dive into the key topics discussed in the podcast episode, exploring how a structured approach, inspired by Japanese Kaizen philosophy, can help you kickstart your writing journey through a 5-day challenge.Timestamp:00:00 Jumpstart Writing with Kaizen Challenges04:44 Balancing Emotion and Logic in Writing09:02 Overcoming Writing Resistance12:39 Encouragement Through Community Publishing14:53 Five-Day Writing Challenge Overview16:45 Join the Authors' ChallengeFull show notesCOMMUNITY PROGRAMS📚 Write and Publish your bookCONNECT📷 Instagram🎬 TikTok👫🏻 Facebook💼 LinkedIn🐦‍⬛ Twitter🤝🏻 Apply to be a GuestLEAVE A REVIEW✍🏻 Review on Apple Podcasts✍️ Review on Spotify🖱️ Episode Webpage

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of Authors Who Lead, I sit down with Shelby Leigh, a best-selling author and mental health advocate, to discuss the nuances of mastering organic reach in book marketing, the daily writing habit, and the importance of viewing oneself as a brand. With over 500,000 readers and a successful transition from self-publishing to traditional publishing, Shelby Leigh’s journey is filled with valuable lessons for aspiring and established authors alike.Timestamp:00:00 College poetry helped ease my anxiety struggles.06:05 Books explore mental health, societal pressure, and anxiety.09:12 How did you overcome book marketing shyness?11:38 Treat books as a business; highlight personal connections.15:15 Separate personal and professional social media accounts.19:16 Success requires time, strategy, and valuable content.21:24 Focus on organic growth; address messaging issues.24:28 Creating a poetry book reveals a self-love journey.28:36 Beginner programs and Creative Content Club offerings.31:45 Evolving commerce through TikTok and authentic content.35:58 Teaching finance involves understanding consistent consumer psychology.38:43 Research audience interests; use storytelling for engagement.41:48 Confidence is key; comparison hinders creativity.Full show notesCOMMUNITY PROGRAMS📚 Write and Publish your bookCONNECT📷 Instagram🎬 TikTok👫🏻 Facebook💼 LinkedIn🐦‍⬛ Twitter🤝🏻 Apply to be a GuestLEAVE A REVIEW✍🏻 Review on Apple Podcasts✍️ Review on Spotify🖱️ Episode Webpage

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of the Authors Who Lead podcast, I sit down with Kristen Van Nest. Kristen, a talented comedian, author, and business owner, sheds light on her unique writing process, the cultural nuances of living abroad, and her transition from a corporate career to creative pursuits. This episode dives deep into the intricacies of creativity, the challenges of expatriate life, and the transformative power of travel.Timestamp:00:00 Kristen Van Nest: World-traveling comedian, writer, business owner.06:07 Travel broadens perspectives and challenges personal happiness.07:10 Designed life for happiness through travel independence.11:10 Charna Halpern taught improv in Shanghai, transformative.14:38 Self-discovery through questioning values and experiences.19:05 Learning cultural roots of East Asian countries.21:51 Learning the language offers unique cultural insight.25:45 Portuguese pronunciation impresses locals and enhances the experience.29:50 Writing involves phases: Reflection, research, ritual, and closure.30:57 Write 500 words daily; create a book.34:54 Stop editing while writing; just write.37:40 Subscribe for weekly episodes and show updates.Full show notesCOMMUNITY PROGRAMS📚 Write and Publish your bookCONNECT📷 Instagram🎬 TikTok👫🏻 Facebook💼 LinkedIn🐦‍⬛ Twitter🤝🏻 Apply to be a GuestLEAVE A REVIEW✍🏻 Review on Apple Podcasts✍️ Review on Spotify🖱️ Episode Webpage

Send us Fan MailIf you’re an author wondering whether attending a book fair is a good idea, you’re in the right place. In this episode, I dive into the unique opportunities book fairs offer to showcase your work, engage with readers, network with industry professionals, and more. Whether you’re a new author or an experienced one, participating in a book fair can provide invaluable experiences and help elevate your writing career.Timestamp:00:00 Consider book fairs for promotion and speaking opportunities.03:53 Start an email list using ConvertKit today.06:48 Miami Book Fair: Renowned, extensive, diverse literary event.13:16 Engage locals, encourage attendance, and connect with attendees.15:49 Book sales allowed; additional costs apply. Varies.18:04 Leverage book sales for long-term marketing growth.Full show notesCOMMUNITY PROGRAMS📚 Write and Publish your bookCONNECT📷 Instagram🎬 TikTok👫🏻 Facebook💼 LinkedIn🐦‍⬛ Twitter🤝🏻 Apply to be a GuestLEAVE A REVIEW✍🏻 Review on Apple Podcasts✍️ Review on Spotify🖱️ Episode Webpage