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Capturing attention in a sea of digital noise is a challenge and an art form. In this episode of Authors Who Lead, Peter and I discuss the importance of humor and creativity in public relations (PR), highlighting strategies that propelled the mental health app Calm into the spotlight. Peter shares invaluable insights on the power of quirky PR, creative naming, and the essential practices startups should adopt for effective branding and marketing.

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00:00 Inspired by involvement with the meditation app Calm.
04:48 Calm succeeded by being lighthearted and approachable.
06:48 "Silly PR outshines serious PR with creativity."
12:13 Nontraditional PR is consumer-led, engaging marketing.
14:03 Viral movie about sheep shown globally.
18:08 Assess the client's comfort with quirky strategies first.
23:01 Calm's clever marketing: viral sponsorships and advocacy.
24:55 Good ideas naturally spread worldwide without effort.
29:45 Sleepstorming coined; idea gained media attention.
31:48 First sleep storyteller in residence gains attention.
36:56 Brands grow up and lose their playful creativity.
39:26 Design for attention early; marketing essential throughout.
42:05 "Essential book for leaders, authors, creators."

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In this episode of Authors Who Lead, I welcome Lydia Fenet, an accomplished author and CEO of Lydia Fenet Agency, for an enlightening discussion on the interplay between confidence, writing, and life's unexpected challenges. Our conversation offers profound insights for aspiring writers and anyone striving to carve their path with determination and resilience.

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00:00 Announcing projects motivates me to complete them.
04:06 Writing book sparked New York Times profile request.
09:15 Fear of starting limits personal and professional growth.
10:30 Fear and transition: confidence is a choice.
14:38 Authors lead by believing in their message.
19:05 Growth happens outside your comfort zone.
20:19 Anticlimactic book signing: two audience members present.
24:24 Writing shows perseverance: keep going, find solutions.
27:44 Amid crisis, family and friends provided love.
30:46 Cherish life; live authentically, without regrets.
34:27 Start writing; complete your draft to progress.
36:49 Writing became life content; personalized structure advised.
41:45 Introverted person socializes by pretending at hotels.
43:40 Loved the book; challenging time for the editor.
45:38 Contact Lydia Fennett via Instagram, website, and LinkedIn.

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Writing a book is a dream for many, but fear often stands in the way of making that dream a reality. In this compelling solo episode of Authors Who Lead, I delve into the core obstacles that aspiring authors face and offer tangible insights on how to overcome them. Let's explore the key themes providing a roadmap for anyone looking to transform their fear into a powerful motivator for writing.

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00:00 Fear holds authors back from publishing work.
04:33 Start now: Organize, plan, and commit. Keep the message simple.
07:09 Focus on unique impact: write a personal book.
11:28 Write authentically; readers relate and transform.

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In this episode of Authors Who Lead, I delve into the inspiring journey of eight young authors and their dedicated teacher, Natalie Wilkinson. Together, they crafted a powerful novel titled The Art of Giving a Crap, which encapsulates the essence of untold stories and the beauty of collaborative effort. Let’s unpack their journey, from the project's inception to seeing their work in print.

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00:00 Students publish a book post-graduation with a teacher.
03:37 Discussing personal stories and creative processes.
09:17 Flip-flopping platforms, collaborative editing process finalized.
11:50 Few Americans publish books despite widespread aspirations.
15:58 Inspired by the podcast by students' achievements.
17:01 Students inspire writing and publishing books globally.

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In this episode of Authors Who Lead, I host a conversation with Shane Sams, a man whose journey from small-town school teacher to successful entrepreneur is as inspiring as it is educational. Shane Sams has dedicated his career to teaching others how to achieve financial independence by building online businesses. With over 1,000 podcast episodes and countless success stories from his students, Shane shares his insights on overcoming initial skepticism, the importance of authenticity in writing and business, and how a meaningful message can elevate one's life both personally and professionally.

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00:00 Son's mistreatment sparked a journey to entrepreneurship success.
06:26 Realized book was too vast; reconsidered approach.
10:08 Book completion redefined my business and life.
12:38 His book strategically guides all marketing efforts.
15:24- The story founded the business and was told on a podcast.
17:50 The Author insisted on writing the first book draft.
21:22 Hire a coach to write technical parts.
24:26 Show genuine care to connect with your audience.
28:31 Book focuses on simplicity for effective messaging.
30:04 Writing realization during Kentucky winter morning story.
34:17 Immigrant pursues dream: English, college, business success.
36:22 Entrepreneur and aspiring doctor succeed, inspiring others.
40:55 Title reflects meaningful work, not just money.
43:02 Grateful acknowledgment of love, heartfelt response.

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In this episode of Authors Who Lead, I engage in a profound conversation with author Isabel Reddy, delving into the intricacies of her debut novel set in a mining town. It unpacks Reddy's meticulous research process, her approach to character complexity, and the emotional weight of capturing a community's ongoing grief and resilience. Additionally, it expands on these discussions, offering a comprehensive look into Isabel Reddy's creative journey and the broader themes explored in the podcast.

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00:00 Writing's hardest part is overcoming self-doubt.
04:23 Constantly questioning and improving my writing skills.
08:12 Novel explores complexity beyond typical good vs. bad.
12:06 Reviving West Virginia's history through fictional storytelling.
16:22 Survivors' grief remains palpable after 40 years.
18:46 Mining's dangers create dissonance despite deep ties.
21:38 Seek supportive feedback; blend critique with conviction.
23:56 Father's meticulous records inspired my primary research.
27:31 Focusing on humanity, not drugs or polarization.

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In this episode of Authors Who Lead, Jimmy Dunne and I explore the importance of relationships, personal contributions, and the joy of everyday experiences over the pursuit of accolades. We delve into the nuances of capturing the essence of life through storytelling. Additionally, we discuss the power of "fiction with purpose," the meticulous writing process, and the importance of maintaining emotional truth in narratives.

Timestamp:

00:00 Introducing Jimmy Dunn: Renaissance man in arts/business.
05:58 Small moments define our lives true meaning.
09:26 Captured father-in-law's life stories during the pandemic.
13:06 Writing short stories: truth, structure, conversational style.
14:37 Writing is rewriting; refining through multiple drafts.
19:19 Blessed childhood fostered an early passion for music.
20:51 Math, music, and storytelling shaped my journey.
24:42 Streaming platforms highlight extraordinary writing and storytelling.
27:28 Character and integrity are essential in life.
32:48 I mentor and support young people's transitions.
36:03 Dyslexic volunteer inspires storytelling despite challenges.

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Hello, fellow writers! Whether you’re a seasoned author or just starting, there's always something to learn about creating a book that truly resonates with readers. In this episode of Authors Who Lead, I share valuable insights on writing with a purpose, identifying your ideal reader, defining your core message, and understanding your role as an author. Let’s explore these important aspects together!

Timestamp:

00:00 Engage readers personally and be their relatable guide.
06:19 Identify your reader and core message precisely.
09:13 Guide readers; don't transform them entirely.
12:10 Leave reviews, share on social, and tag me.

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In this episode of "Authors Who Lead," Katie Otey shares the depth of her experiences in the literary world. A humorist with a penchant for heartfelt narratives, Katie underscores the importance of writing from the heart. 

"Understanding the craft and staying true to oneself," she affirms, is crucial for long-term success. This is particularly evident in her first adult book published by Phoenix Publishing in August, where she combines her life experiences with her literary skills.

Timestamp:

00:00 Met Katie Ode, author and humorist, inspiring.
05:48 Authors should be valued by merit, not identity.
08:38 Struggled with Appalachian stereotypes and family history.
10:18 Embrace diversity beyond cultural stereotypes through media.
14:45 Take time, join the community, and share thoughtful stories.
19:47 Beautiful, inspiring story with vibrant food illustrations.
22:20 Isaiah inspired a funny, imaginative, dramatic child.
24:29 Authors often feel confident yet terrified.
27:50 Follow your heart, stay true, work hard.

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In this episode of Authors Who Lead, I sit down with Kevin O'Connor, the author of the forthcoming memoir, 2 Floors Above Grief. Scheduled for release today, O'Connor's book provides a unique blend of memoir, travelogue, and an exploration of the mental health aspects of working in the funeral industry from the 50s, 60s, and 70s. Our conversation ranges from the intricacies of writing a memoir to the deep emotional and historical context behind his family's funeral business.

Timestamp:

00:00 Focused on writing a book in 2021.
03:12 Followed the guided process and published the book in 18 months.
06:41 The Initial audience was 150 family members, but expanded.
11:57 Planning follow-up books, inspired by family letters.
14:39 Funeral directors coping with inherited grief burden.
18:20 Authentic family stories, no fictionalization, considering fiction.
19:53 Use fiction to tell truths without hurting people.
24:30 Real, flawed characters are relatable and interesting.
28:08 Memoir covers multiple lives and personal stories.
30:06 Memoirs reflect interpreted past moments, not facts.
36:00 Resources for grief, book updates, newsletter, Instagram.
37:00 Shift toward emotional aspect in modern grieving.

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