be. What Works Weekly

What does it really take to write, launch, and protect a book in today’s world?

In this episode of be. What Works Weekly, Mike sits down with Julie Trelstad — a 30+ year publishing veteran and self-described “book futurist” — to break down what’s actually happening in the publishing industry.

With over 4,000 books being released every week (and nearly 30% reportedly AI-written), standing out — and protecting your work — has never been more important.

Julie shares:

• Why people really want to write a book (hint: authority starts with “author”)

• How to identify the one book only you can write

• Realistic timelines from idea to Amazon

• The truth about Amazon bestseller strategies

• Why selling direct to your audience may be smarter than relying on Amazon

• How AI can help — and how it can hurt — authors

• New tools for protecting intellectual property in the age of AI

If you’ve ever thought about writing a book — to build authority, grow your business, or serve your niche — this conversation gives you the practical roadmap.

Because in a crowded marketplace, your voice is still your advantage.

In this episode of Be What Works Weekly, Mike Wood interviews Paul Salter, a mindset and performance coach who specializes in helping high performers overcome mental barriers. Paul shares his journey from being a sports dietitian to a hypnotherapist, emphasizing the importance of mindset in achieving personal and professional goals. The conversation delves into the challenges faced by high achievers, such as imposter syndrome and perfectionism, and offers practical strategies for self-discovery and personal growth. Paul highlights the role of hypnosis in facilitating change and the significance of morning routines and self-reflection in setting intentions for success.

In this episode, Mike Wood interviews Erwin Sigua, a seasoned entrepreneur and property manager, who shares his journey through the real estate industry, including his experiences during the financial crisis. Erwin discusses the importance of resilience, the evolution of his business, and the drive to take on new challenges. He emphasizes learning from failures, the significance of mentorship, and finding balance in life and work. The conversation provides valuable insights for aspiring entrepreneurs and highlights the importance of self-development and understanding one's core values.

Most success isn't about how much you achieve—it's about whether your inner life is in sync with your outer achievements. Adrian Jones's story of surviving a massive heart attack at midlife isn't just a tale of resilience; it’s a wake-up call for anyone feeling trapped on the relentless hamster wheel. When health issues forced him to pause, AJ realized the true source of joy is living authentically and aligning your actions with your core values—before it’s too late.

In this powerful episode, AJ shares the raw, vulnerable moments that shifted his entire outlook on life and success. You'll discover how radical honesty and small daily actions can lead to radical transformation. We break down practical steps to identify your non-negotiables, set boundaries that protect your energy, and replace guilt with intentionality. If you’re feeling burnt out, disconnected from your purpose, or simply craving clarity, this is your blueprint for realignment.

AJ’s journey from high-powered finance to living authentically on the North Carolina coast offers a bold new perspective: you don’t have to wait for a health scare to make life-changing choices. Instead, he offers a simple, actionable framework—starting with honest self-assessment and micro-movements—that can help you regain control, find true happiness, and unlock your full potential.

Perfect for high achievers, busy professionals, and anyone searching for meaning beyond success on paper, this episode invites you to reconsider what really matters. Prepare to challenge your routines, embrace discomfort, and take that first small step toward a more aligned, fulfilling life. Your wake-up call might just be a decision away.

[AJ is a former financial industry professional turned authenticity advocate, author, and founder of the More platform, dedicated to helping others live true to themselves. visit www.bemorealigned.com or email [email protected] for more info]

In this episode of be. What Works Weekly, we break down what actually drives business growth across different lead channels—from LinkedIn outreach to Facebook and Instagram ads.

While the tactics may change, the principles don’t.

You’ll learn:

• What’s different between organic outreach and paid ads

• What stays the same no matter the platform

• How trust, targeting, and systems impact lead quality

• How to think about lead generation as math—not magic

• How you can apply these principles to get more business

Whether you’re relying on referrals, experimenting with ads, or building your own database, this episode will help you stop chasing tactics and start using proven fundamentals that scale.

In this episode, we explore the intersection of branding, client relationships, and digital marketing, with a focus on how AI is reshaping the business landscape. Our guests, Joe Ross and Jill Rutherford, share insights on building strong client connections and the importance of understanding your ideal market. We discuss the evolving role of AI in marketing and the need for businesses to adapt to new digital realities.

In this episode, Mike Wood and Justin Haines explore the journey of personal reinvention and finding joy beyond financial success. They discuss the importance of creating a life aligned with one's true purpose and the transformative power of asking deeper questions. The conversation delves into the challenges of breaking away from traditional success models and embracing a more soulful approach to life and work. to work with Justin visit www.regenconsutancy.com/haines

Summary

In this engaging conversation, Mike Wood and Brad Armstrong delve into the journey of creating a viral commercial, the challenges and insights of entrepreneurship, and the importance of building connections within the community. Brad shares his experiences in the roller skating business, the impact of his viral video, and the lessons learned throughout his career. The discussion highlights the significance of creativity, adaptability, and the value of personal connections in achieving success.

In this episode, Mike Wood interviews Thomas McEachern a real estate agent in Orange County and the founder of Omnisist. They explore the challenges of starting a business, the significance of having a clear vision, and the role of automation and virtual assistants in streamlining operations. The conversation highlights the need for a mindset shift from scarcity to abundance and the value of sharing knowledge and resources. They also touch on the evolving real estate industry and the impact of social media on business growth.

In this episode of What Works Weekly, Mike Wood interviews Veronica "VEE," a nationally board-certified nurse practitioner and serial entrepreneur. VEE shares her journey from working as a registered nurse to becoming a successful business owner, discussing the challenges and lessons learned along the way. She emphasizes the importance of mindset, financial literacy, and having systems in place for business success. VEE also highlights the significance of mentorship and personal growth in overcoming obstacles and achieving long-term success.