Podcast show notes – Paul Newton (Episode 9 – 25 April 2024)

Guest: Paul Newton

Title: Cracking Crowdfunding during COVID

Welcome to another episode of Business Book Bites. I’m Karen Williams, The Book Mentor, and in today's episode, I had the pleasure of sitting down with the charismatic and dynamic Paul Newton, the voice behind MentalTheft. 

Paul is a leading expert in cybersecurity and has gained popularity for his captivating and entertaining approach to educating people on the issues of scams, theft, and cybersecurity. During our conversation, Paul shared insights about his book ‘Mental Theft: Your Mind is the Weakest Link’, including the story of how he came to write the book during Covid-19 and his crowdfunding success.  

We also delve into Paul's journey from a jobbing magician to an internationally sought-after speaker and the impact his book has had on his business. Paul also offers practical writing and security tips. This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in cybersecurity, crowdfunding, or navigating the world of international speaking. 

Get the Business Book Bites Best Bits from all our episodes in series two in one simple to consume guide. Go to www.librotas.com/bbb2

Highlights: 

Embrace Your Voice: When writing a book, it's important to maintain your authentic voice. This helps create an emotional connection with the reader and makes your message more impactful. 

Overcome Challenges: Writing and publishing a book often involves facing self-doubt and challenges. However, with the right support and determination, you can overcome these obstacles and achieve success. 

The Reluctant Crowdfunder: Don’t be afraid of asking for help. Crowdfunding more than surpassed Paul’s expectations and led to a wealth of opportunities for the book.

Bio: 

Under the brand MentalTheft, Paul Newton has become the biggest voice for bridging the gap between cybersecurity experts and the average person. 

As a charismatic and exciting entertainer, Paul wows and captivates audiences, all whilst educating them on the issues of scams, theft and cyber security. Loved by industry experts and everyday people alike, Paul and his team are helping to increase security and to fight crime. 

Paul is the author of MentalTheft – Your Mind is the Weakest Link, which is all about how a mind reader could steal your personal information. 

Website: 

https://mentaltheft.co.uk/product/mentaltheft-book-paperback 

Socials: 

https://www.facebook.com/MentalTheft
https://twitter.com/mentaltheft
https://www.instagram.com/mentaltheft 
 
Time stamped overview:

05:28 Quickly wrote a book, struggled with structure, succeeded.
07:39 Reluctantly embraced crowdfunding, expressed appreciation for support.
11:45 Magician travels for gigs, prioritises family time.
18:05 Many are affected by mental theft, causing harm.
19:26 Paul Newton helps victims of financial fraud.
23:28 Use two factor authentication on all accounts.
27:36 Embracing mental theft on various social platforms.

Keywords: 

Paul Newton, mentaltheft, cyber security, scams, mental theft, speaking, entertainment, magic, personal profiling, disc profiling, firewalk, book, author, crowdfunding, self-publishing, international speaking, keynote speaker, magician, password manager, two-factor authentication, writing, stories, promotion, mind reading, book writing, book coaching

In this episode of Business Book Bites, we delve into the power of stories with Susan Payton, coach, consultant and the author of the bestselling book, The Business of Stories.  

Writing a book wasn’t on Susan’s radar, and then a culmination of things led to its creation. First off, she wanted to move from working one to one with clients – as a done-for-you service – into running group workshops and programmes. But she couldn’t work out how to turn her service into something that would work in a group setting.   

So, she realised she had to get her ideas out of her head and onto paper in order to teach it. This started as an e-book for lead generation, but she realised that it had to become a paperbackpaperback. She engaged a book coach, followed their process and successfully launched it. It immediately became a bestseller and this, alongside plenty of hard work, helped Susan to support more clients, scale her business, and create a six-figure business.   

In our conversation, Susan delves into the profound impact of storytelling in the business world and shares invaluable insights into the process of infusing personal narratives into impactful content. She provides compelling advice on ensuring that your book maintains your unique voice, the skillful intertwining of personal stories into your book, and the art of connecting with your audience through relatable storytelling.

** Want the Business Book Bites Best Bits from all our episodes in series two? Go to www.librotas.com/bbb2 **  

Highlights:   

** Authenticity Matters: When writing a book, don't be afraid to infuse it with your authentic voice and personal stories. Let your readers hear your voice throughout the narrative. **  

** Weave Your Story: Showcasing real-life experiences and weaving them into your book can bring your teachings to life, allowing readers to connect with the content on a deeper level. **  

** Long-Term Promotion: Writing a book is just the beginning. Continued promotion and engagement with readers are essential for long-term success. Don't stop talking about your book, as it can lead to incredible opportunities and connections. **  

Bio:   

Susan Payton is a coach, consultant and author of The Business of Stories. Released in March 2022, Susan’s book quickly became a UK and US #1 bestseller on Amazon in several business categories, including Marketing and Sales – even knocking Stephen Bartlett (Diary of a CEO) off the top spot. It got to #1 on Amazon again when the audiobook version was released, and it was a finalist in the Business Book Awards 2023.   

In a noisy world, where it’s getting harder and harder to stand out from the crowd and be heard above the noise, Susan is passionate about showing business owners how to clearly articulate their value and speak to the right people, at the right time, with a simple message and a great story. Her game changing framework helps entrepreneurs and marketers craft stories and narratives that launch businesses, build brands and create raving fans.  

Website: You can get a free copy of The Business of Stories at https://thebusinessofstories.com/my-book.  

Socials:   https://www.facebook.com/susanpaytonUK/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/susanpaytonuk/  

Time stamped overview:  

00:00 Transitioning from one-on-one to group work.
05:12 Following structure helped create a practical, helpful book.
08:17 Author struggles but eventually finds clarity and satisfaction.
11:14 Author achieves top book ranking through persistence.
15:28 Royalty statement shows surprising global reach.
18:53 Book focuses on emotional connection, actionable impact.
21:15 Guidance and support improve performance, like coaching.
24:15 Publisher pushback; author stands firm on voice.  

Discussion questions:   

1. What prompted Susan Payton to write "The Business of Stories"?
2. What was Susan's approach to writing, publishing, and marketing the book?
3. How did Susan promote her book successfully, and what were some of the hard work and strategies she used?
4. What has been the level of success of Susan's book in terms of sales and reach?
5. How does Susan use her book to align with her business and attract clients and opportunities?
6. What significant tips or advice can Susan share for those thinking about writing, publishing, or marketing a book?
7. How did Susan incorporate her voice and storytelling into her book to make it sound like her and create a conversational tone?
8. Where can people get a copy of Susan's book, "The Business of Stories", and how can they connect with her on social media?
9. What were some of the opportunities and speaking engagements Susan secured as a result of her book's success?
10. What is the significance of weaving personal stories throughout a book, and what purpose does it serve? 

Keywords: book marketing, storytelling, business book, author, bestseller, entrepreneur, marketer, framework, writing process, book structure, business growth, story structure, storytelling workshop, book publishing, book promotion, building a brand, storytelling mastery, story coaching, storytelling framework, publishing success, audiobook, storytelling methodology, Stephen bartlett, building a story brand, Donald miller

Welcome back to another enlightening episode of Business Book Bites! I’m your host, Karen Williams, and today, we have the immense pleasure of featuring Dr. Tamara Russell, a neuroscientist, clinical psychologist, martial arts expert, and an innovative force in the realm of well-being.   

With her trailblazing books, ‘Mindfulness in Motion’, ‘#What is Mindfulness?’, and ‘What Colour is Your Dragon?’, we delve into the importance of simplicity in writing.

Tamara explores how she has bridged the gap between complex neuroscience and practical, accessible mindfulness practices.   Tamara shares how she has created multiple work and income streams from her writing, including launching a programme in Brazil. She gives us insights into her latest venture, the Dragon Academy App, providing layered content, exercises, audios, and live sessions catered to different levels of engagement.   

We also discuss the exciting potential of generative AI in enhancing the mindfulness experience and the importance of authenticity and expert guidance in writing and teaching.  

 ** Want the  Business Book Bites Best Bits from all our episodes in series two? Go to www.librotas.com/bbb2 **

Highlights  

** Non-fiction writing should simplify concepts without undermining their complexity, making them accessible to a broad audience **  

** Integration of digital resources with traditional learning can profoundly enhance the user's experience and retention **  

** Leveraging technology, like apps and AI, provides a dynamic platform for iterative learning and personalised content delivery **  

Bio:   

Dr. Tamara Russell is a neuroscientist, author, clinical psychologist, martial arts expert and leading innovator in the well-being space. She has helped people all around the world transform their lives using her ground-breaking applied brainwise techniques for living well. These applied translational neuroscience tools allow everyone the chance to make better decisions in line with their core values and live well.   

With two PhDs and a black belt in Shaolin Kung Fu, Tamara's work integrates mind, brain and body in a totally unique approach to well-being and thriving that combines movement, neuroscience and creativity.   

Her three core programs include Body in Mind Training, Brainwise Mindfulness and The Dragon Way to Mental Wealth (and for Families and Young People - What Colour is Your Dragon?). These programs have been offered across corporate, education, health and creative sectors, where Tamara teaches groups and individuals in the public and private sector how to thrive.   

Tamara is involved in international research investigating how mindfulness changes the structure of the brain. She lectures in Neuroscience and Mindfulness at King's College London. She is regularly invited to speak on Mindfulness around the globe, appearing both on stage, radio and online. This work informs her applied translational neuroscience approach to well-being. Her organisation The Mindfulness Centre of Excellence was founded in 2011 after sharing the stage with His Holiness the Dalai Lama in Sao Paulo, Brazil at a symposium exploring how ancient contemplative technologies can inform the challenges of modern living.   

Tamara is the author of three books Mindfulness in Motion, #whatismindfulness, and What Colour is Your Dragon?  

Website: 

https://mindbodymot.com and https://www.drtamararussell.com   

Socials:    

https://www.instagram.com/drtamararussell  

Time stamped overview:  

00:00 Transition from academic editing to writing books.
05:45 Explaining mindfulness to children and its challenges.
08:59 Mindfulness impacts mental health through specific practices.
12:51 Book emphasises practical application of mindfulness concepts.
17:41 Mindfulness language precision and translation challenges.
21:43 Movement-based learning method engages and aids learners.
24:01 Iterative feedback process allows continuous improvement.
25:53 Psychologist offers personalised service and explores AI.
29:35 AI in preventative health: sharing knowledge, changing behaviour.
33:54 Early editor feedback vital for personal writing.  

Discussion questions:   

1. How did Dr. Tamara Russell's background in neuroscience, psychology, and martial arts inform her unique approach to mindfulness and her writing?
2. What challenges does Dr. Russell identify in translating academic research into non-fiction writing that's accessible to a general audience?
3. How does Dr. Russell tailor her courses and books to address common problems people face in corporate, community mental health, and clinical settings?
4. Can you discuss the process and considerations behind creating an app like the Dragon Academy and the different membership levels it offers?
5. How might generative AI change the way mindfulness training is delivered, and how does Dr. Russell see it playing a role in her own work?
6. What are some of the ethical considerations and potential benefits of using AI in the health and wellness space, particularly in the context of Dr. Russell's mindfulness programs? 
7. Dr. Russell emphasises the importance of editing and early feedback in the writing process. How does this approach contribute to the overall quality and impact of a writer's work?
8. With various mindfulness practices becoming increasingly popular, how does Dr. Russell ensure her methods, such as "mindfulness in motion," stand out and resonate with different learners? 
9. In developing the teacher training program and the subsequent translation of "Mindfulness in Motion" into Portuguese, what unexpected challenges arose, and how were they addressed?
10. Karen Williams and Dr. Russell discuss the imperfections in the writing journey. Can you share an instance where embracing imperfection led to a significant breakthrough in your work or personal development?  

Keywords:   neuroscientist, clinical psychologist, martial arts, Shaolin kung fu, mindfulness techniques, brainwise techniques, non-fiction book writing, mindfulness, neuroscience, mindfulness practice, neurocognitive model, Tamara Russell books, embodied practice, mindfulness app, generative AI, writing advice, editing process, trauma-informed mindfulness, book translation challenges, Dragon Academy app, what colour is your dragon, books multiple income streams

As a Sunday Times bestselling author and seasoned ghostwriter, Cheryl Rickman has penned an impressive 27 nonfiction books, with specialties ranging from empowering business strategies to transformative well-being practices. 

In today's episode of Business Book Bites, we delve into the fascinating world of ghostwriting and hear how Cheryl’s knack for capturing unique voices has resulted in outstanding successes, including a nonfiction chart-topper that propelled an author to industry authority status.

Cheryl navigated her journey from business guides to the realms of positive psychology, where she not only became a qualified practitioner but brought invaluable insights into her self-published work, ‘The Flourish Handbook’. Her latest endeavour, ‘You Can Flourish’, delves deep into the landscape of human emotions and positive psychology.  

You'll learn about her cherished project, ‘Three Lionesses’, her ethos on the importance of planning and structure in writing, and how her foray into ghostwriting has resulted in unexpected successes, such as her first book's boost from Anita Roddick's endorsement.  

Get ready to absorb Cheryl's top writing tips, discover the transformative power of giving voice to others, and understand why she believes it's crucial to encourage more would-be authors to share their stories with the world. 

** Want the Business Book Bites Best Bits from all our episodes in series two? Go to www.librotas.com/bbb2 **  

Highlights  

**Embrace the Ghost**: Cheryl dives into how ghostwriting can be a rewarding path for writers, providing a voice to others while learning and connecting with various fields.  

**Write with Purpose**: By focusing on one point per paragraph, Cheryl underscores the importance of clear and concise writing. This simple but effective tip can elevate your writing, whether it’s a business proposal or your next bestseller.  

**Beyond Words**: From being a Sunday Times bestselling ghostwriter to self-publishing ‘The Flourish Handbook’, Cheryl's journey illustrates the power of positioning and authentic voice in establishing authority and impacting lives.  

Bio:   

Cheryl Rickman is a Sunday Times bestselling ghostwriter and author of 27 non-fiction books across self-help, business, inspirational memoir, and mental health guidance. With 18 years’ experience of book-writing, Cheryl specialises in writing empowering, practical books to inspire, inform, and help people to fret less and flourish more. She is also a qualified Positive Psychology Practitioner and a Wellbeing Ambassador for the Network of Wellbeing.

Specialist subjects include resilience, goal-achievement, building hope and self-compassion and her ‘superpower’ is turning complex topics and captivating life stories into practical easy-to-digest guidance mixed with inspirational life lessons.   

Cheryl spent the first half of her career writing and ghostwriting business books to help people flourish at work and in business. The second part of her career has been spent working on books that help people flourish in life. Now, Cheryl is well-positioned to team up with inspirational high-profile people in the public-eye whose experiences highlight those much-needed life lessons.   

Her most recent book is a children’s non-fiction book ghostwritten for three young elite athletes, called Three Lionesses: Find your team, boost self-belief and embrace your inner Lioness. This was a book idea Cheryl came up with after watching England’s Lionesses win the Euros Final in 2022. She wrote the book with Nikita Parris, Georgia Stanway and Ella Toone to help young people grow their confidence, achieve their goals and rise to challenges.   

Website: 

https://www.CherylRickman.co.uk   

Socials:    

https://www.instagram.com/wellbeingauthor 

https://twitter.com/writeruk

https://www.facebook.com/CherylRickmanAuthorGhostwriter   

Time stamped overview:  

00:00 Learning success secrets, pitching books, finding publishers.
05:25 Author's forward by Anita Roddick boosts sales.
07:32 Enjoying recent ghostwriting experience; inspired by resilient female footballers.
10:28 Shift from business writing to positive psychology.
13:31 Flourishing is about the whole spectrum of emotions.
17:43 Finding confidence in writing multiple distinct voices.
23:50 Timing to write a book pivotal for success.
24:44 Collaboration and transcription help shape impactful content.
27:57 Remember to stay focused on the point.  

Discussion questions:  

1. What initially drew Cheryl Rickman to the field of writing and ghostwriting?
2. How has Cheryl's transition from writing business books to focusing on positive psychology and well-being topics affected the way she approaches her writing and ghostwriting projects?
3. Cheryl discusses the importance of planning and avoiding overwriting—could you share a time when not following this advice impacted one of your projects, and what you learned from that experience?
4. Can you elaborate on the collaborative nature of ghostwriting and share an instance where this dynamic led to an exceptionally rewarding outcome for both you and the author? 
5. Cheryl mentioned one of her ghostwritten books reached number one in the nonfiction chart; considering the anonymity of ghostwriting, how does that success feel different from accolades received for books published under your own name?
6. Regarding the writing tip of focusing on one point per paragraph, how has this approach enhanced the clarity and impact of your writing, particularly in conveying complex topics like diversity and inclusion? 
7. As someone who has written a significant number of books, could you describe your process for 'data dump,' structuring, and capturing the author's voice in more detail? 
8. Many people might not understand the value a ghostwriter brings to the table. How do you explain the unique skill set and benefits a ghostwriter offers to potential clients, especially in well-being and life guidance subjects?
9. Having worked on a wide range of topics, from business to children's literature to well-being, what have been some of the most rewarding aspects of such diversity in your writing career?
10. Cheryl, as a seasoned author and ghostwriter, what would be your number one piece of advice for someone looking to write their first book, whether on their own or through a ghostwriting partnership?  

Keywords:   Cheryl Rickman, ghostwriting, passion project, planning in writing, overwriting issues, collaborative writing, establishing authority, writing tips, wellbeing author, publish books, positive psychology practitioner, self-publishing, The Flourish Handbook, inspirational women, You Can Flourish, writing process, writing confidence, book structure process, Sunday Times bestselling ghostwriter, nonfiction books author, small business startup workbook, Three Lionesses book

Welcome to another episode of Business Book Bites, where we distil the top insights from business authors to support your book writing and marketing success! I’m Karen Williams, your host, and in today’s episode I talk to Teamworkologist, Nick Fewings. 

With over three decades of experience in cultivating high-performing teams, Nick used the COVID pandemic period to complete a project that people had been asking for him to write for years. After carrying out extensive research for the project, he encapsulated his wealth of knowledge in the bestseller ‘Team Lead Succeed’, which is being read across the globe from Alaska to Bali and it even caught the eye of a waitress in Majorca.

Nick cleverly mastered the art of book marketing prior to its launch, engaging his audience through Instagram shares, poetic chapter previews, and even snapping pictures of his book with a pen for added theatrical effect.   

We dive into the business side of book sales – it has increased his business by 66%. We explore Nick's emphasis on leveraging speaking engagements and the ripple effect his book has created in his career. With no such thing as a free speech, Nick has found innovative ways to negotiate beneficial deals that extend beyond financial gains.

  ** Want the  Business Book Bites Best Bits from all our episodes in series two? Go to www.librotas.com/bbb2 **  

Highlights:   

**Leverage Social Media Creatively**: Nick Fewings shared his book's journey across the globe via Instagram, nurturing an engaged and interactive reader community.   

**Strategic Book Marketing**: Nick used unconventional strategies, including pre-launch sneak peeks and smart merchandise tagging, which led to a monumental 66% increase in related business.   

**The Ripple Effect of a Book**: Writing "Team Lead Succeed" has intensified Nick's credibility and opened doors to numerous opportunities, proving that a book can significantly impact your career trajectory.   

Bio:   

Nick Fewings calls himself a Teamworkologist, someone who studies the dynamics of achieving high-performance teamwork, which he has done for over 30 years. He has facilitated teamwork around the world, working with 1,000s of individuals and 100s of teams. He is also a much sought after keynote speaker on the topic of teamwork, and has spoken at over 500 conferences worldwide.

Website:

https://ngagementworks.com/team-lead-succeed  

Socials:   

https://www.linkedin.com/in/nickfewings

https://twitter.com/Nick_Fewings 

https://www.instagram.com/nickfewings 

https://www.facebook.com/Ngagementworks  

Time stamped overview:

00:00 Experienced teamworkologist writes book during lockdown.
05:41 Book helps leaders and teams communicate effectively.
10:04 Readers take photos of book around the world.
14:18 Preparation and promotion for a book launch.
18:17 Book marketing success: focus on bulk sales.
19:12 Charging for speaking, finding value in marketing.
24:28 Self-marketing after PR launch boosts book success.
26:21 Seeking legacy and success through writing and speaking.
29:48 Passion, credibility, knowledge, and testing your topic.  

Discussion questions:

1.   1. How did your strategy of sharing snippets and photos of "Team Lead Succeed" prior to its launch contribute to the book's early interest and success?
2. Nick, can you elaborate on the impact that creative marketing techniques, such as photographing your book with a pen, had on your sales and overall brand visibility? 
3. In what ways do you believe that targeting bulk sales and adding value through book sales at conferences have amplified your business, as highlighted by Karen Williams?
4. You've mentioned charging for speaking engagements but negotiating for marketing value. Can you share some tips on how authors can effectively negotiate these terms? 
5. Could you walk us through a specific example where giving away copies of "Team Lead Succeed" led to unexpected opportunities, such as your speaking engagement at the Houses of Parliament?
6. Nick, your wife advised you to treat your book as a seed. What daily nurturing activities have you found most effective for growing the book's presence in the market?
7. How have you leveraged the publication of "Team Lead Succeed" to gain writing opportunities with other publications, and what advice would you give to authors looking to do the same?
8. You emphasised passion, knowledge, and credibility for aspiring authors. How did these elements play a role in your writing process and in receiving feedback from your readers? 
9. Reflecting on your experience, what would you say has been the most surprising element of becoming a published author and how has the book changed your professional trajectory?
10. Finally, what's one piece of wisdom you would like to impart to listeners of Business Book Bites looking to apply the high-performance teamwork principles from "Team Lead Succeed" to their own teams?  

Keywords:   

Nick Fewings, Team Lead Succeed book, global readership, Amazon books, book marketing strategies, unconventional book marketing, bulk book sales, keynote speeches, speaking engagements, book for publicity, author credibility, teamworkologist, high performance teamwork, pandemic lockdown writing, bestselling book, LinkedIn for authors, smart author system, librotas

When you have a big audacious goal, what’s the best way to share it? Well, you write a book, of course!  

Karen Haller is a bestselling author and the leading global expert in design and colour psychology, and in this episode of Business Book Bites, she shares her inspiring journey in bringing her book idea to life.

Whilst thinking about writing a book after identifying a gap in the market, Karen put together an outline and proposal. And, around the same time, due to her expert status and profile, she was approached by a publisher to write a book. This serendipitous and unexpected moment led to ‘The Little Book of Colour’, which was published by Penguin in 2019.  

In our conversation, we explored Karen’s publishing journey and it’s important to note that getting a publishing deal doesn’t mean that a publisher will market your book. And although ‘The Little Book of Colour’ is not yet available in the US, it has been published in an impressive 14 languages.  

Karen is achieving her big audacious goal of changing the way the world sees colour, and every day she receives messages from readers telling her how her book has impacted their lives. And, she now works with an unexpected market – designers who love her book – and together they work to achieve Karen’s goal.   

In our interview, we talk about Karen’s writing strategy, confidence and why she had a launch party to mark the publication of her book.

** Want the  Business Book Bites Best Bits from all our episodes in series two? Go to www.librotas.com/bbb2 **  

Highlights:  

**Find Your Authentic Voice**: Karen's success began with her passion for colour and authenticity. Aspiring authors should embrace their unique voice and let their true selves permeate their work.

**Celebrate Every Milestone**: From drafting to publication, each step in the book writing process is a victory. Karen emphasised the joy found in celebrating these achievements, no matter the size.  

**Be Proactive in Marketing**: The path to getting your work recognised doesn't end with publication. Proactively marketing your book is crucial, as relying solely on publishers may fall short of expectations.

Bio:

Karen Haller FRSA, is the leading global expert in the field of Behavioural Design & Colour Psychology. Bestselling author of The Little Book of Colour, translated to date in 14 languages. Her mission is to raise awareness of how colour can transform our lives, allowing us to connect back to our authentic self.  

Website:  https://thelittlebookofcolour.com   

Socials:    

https://www.instagram.com/karen_haller_colour
 
https://twitter.com/KarenHaller  

Time stamped overview:  

00:00 Book's success in 14 languages surprises the author.
04:41 Received opportunity from Penguin after book course.
06:48 Preparation and support secured a successful book deal.
11:04 Colour is a vessel for self-discovery.
16:13 Author emphasises the importance of marking the occasion with a book launch.
18:19 Book success: changed lives worldwide, colour empowerment.
22:03 Promoting books and courses for designers' success.
28:53 Confidence comes from courage and trust.
30:50 Appreciative response with brevity.  

Discussion questions:   

1. How did Karen Haller's expertise in colour psychology pique the interest of journalists and lead to her recognition in the field?
2. Can you elaborate on the journey Karen Haller took to realise that her book was more than just about colour, but a pathway to connecting with one's authentic self?
3. How did Karen learn the value of not editing during the drafting process and what impact did this have on the natural evolution of her book? 
4. In what ways did Karen actively participate in marketing her book, and how did these efforts complement or diverge from her publisher's actions?
5. Karen Haller mentioned the significance of celebrating milestones. Could you share how such celebrations have personally contributed to her sense of accomplishment throughout her author journey?
6. What role did support from others play in Karen Haller’s writing process and how did it help her during challenging times? 
7. Given that ‘The Little Book of Colour’ has been translated into multiple languages and has a global reach, how does Karen Haller feel about the international impact of her work?
8. What advice does Karen Haller have for aspiring authors, especially regarding courage and self-trust in the long journey of book writing and publishing? 
9. Karen Haller spoke about her book's profound impact on people and designers. What does she believe is the key reason behind the book resonating so deeply with her audience? 
10. As Karen Haller looks forward to potential future books and collaborations, how does she balance her integrity and focus with new opportunities that come her way?  

Keywords: Karen Haller, colour psychology, book writing, author marketing, book launch party, bestselling author, The Little Book of Colour, design psychology, book translation, Penguin publishing, UK book market, author tips, inspiring authors, author mentoring program, book audience targeting, colour psychology, business book bites, karen williams, librotas

Wouldn’t it be great if you were contacted by a publisher and asked to write a book? This is exactly what happened to our latest guest. I’m Karen Williams, and in this week’s episode of Business Book Bites, I talk to the multi-talented Janey Lee Grace, an Amazon number one bestselling author, speaker, and former co-presenter on BBC Radio 2's Steve Wright in the Afternoon.

We delve into Janey’s fascinating life, and chat about her first book, ‘Imperfectly Natural Woman’, the shock she experienced after publishing it, and the subsequent success she had after doing one thing to promote it, which meant that Waterstones were desperate to get their hands on copies.

This book kick started her business and led to multiple books and publishing deals including one with Hay House. Her latest book is ‘Happy Healthy Sober’ based on her own experiences of giving up alcohol alongside valuable nutrition and lifestyle advice, and has led to her creating her Sober Community.  

We explore valuable insights on promoting yourself, thinking ahead with your marketing, stepping into the spotlight and claiming your brand. This episode is packed with golden nuggets for anyone interested in the world of writing, publishing and entrepreneurship.

Want the  Business Book Bites Best Bits from all our episodes in series two? Go to www.librotas.com/bbb2

Highlights: 

**Claim Your Brand**: Janey Lee Grace emphasised the significance of authors confidently embracing their personal brand. As she rightly put it, "You are the brand", and owning this identity is crucial for connecting with your audience and promoting your work effectively.

**Plan Your PR Strategy**: Successful book promotion is all about strategic planning and proactive outreach. Start promoting your book from the moment you begin crafting it and remember, early engagement with potential platforms is essential for securing features and coverage.  

**Leverage Your Story**: Sharing your personal story in a way that serves your readers is essential. Janey Lee Grace's success has been fuelled by transparently integrating her personal narrative into her books while keeping the focus on delivering value to her audience.

Bio:    Janey Lee Grace is an Amazon No 1 best-selling author, speaker, and was co-presenter on the UK’s biggest radio show, BBC Radio 2’s Steve Wright in the Afternoon for 24 years. Formerly she was a backing singer with Wham!, Kim Wilde, and Boy George, and had her own number 8 chart hit as Cola Boy with 7 Ways to Love.

Janey has written five books on Holistic living including the number one Amazon best-seller ‘Imperfectly Natural Woman’ and her latest book is ‘Happy Healthy Sober – Ditch the booze and take control of your life’, which encourages everyone to look again at their relationship with alcohol. And she runs The Sober Club, a platform offering a non-judgemental community for people who are committed to sobriety and want to ‘upscale’ their life without the booze and focus on health and wellbeing.

Janey is passionate about encouraging people to ditch the chemicals, focus on great nutrition, selfcare, and finding their purpose as she found for herself that quitting the booze was the missing link in the ‘holistic living’ picture. 

Website: www.thesoberclub.com and www.janeyleegrace.com 

Socials: 

https://www.instagram.com/janeyleegrace
https://twitter.com/janeyleegrace
https://www.facebook.com/janeyleegrace 

Time stamped overview:

00:00 Became known for holistic living on BBC.
06:07 Self-promotion led to the book's success and impact.
10:02 Book planning takes time, consider hybrid options.
11:47 Memoir on sobriety, logic, and lifestyle approach.
15:38 Learning to plan and edit writing. Authors' awards.
19:36 Embrace your brand, understand your audience, focus.
21:43 Effective book promotion must start early.
24:12 Radio interview process: fame or expertise sought.  

Discussion questions:   

1. How did Janey Lee Grace's background as a singer and radio host contribute to her success as an author and speaker?
2. What insights did Janey share about the process of getting approached to write her first book and the impact it had on her career?
3. What role did personal experiences and passion play in Janey's decision to write books on holistic living and sobriety, and how did these topics become focal points of her work?
4. What can aspiring authors learn from Janey's experience of working with different publishers and the impact it had on her writing and publishing journey? 
5. How did Janey incorporate her personal story into her books, and what advice did she share about effectively sharing one's story as an author? 
6. In what ways did Janey emphasise the importance of authors being visible and claiming their brand, and how did this visibility contribute to her success? 
7. What were Janey's strategies for promoting her books and maintaining momentum after publication?
8. How did Janey's books support her business and other ventures, and what advice did she offer about aligning a book with one's business goals?
9. What insights did Janey share about the power of collaborative writing and including contributions from other experts in her books?
10. In what ways did Janey's experience as an author shift her perception as an authority and expert in her field, and what impact did it have on her media appearances and opportunities? 

Keywords: Janey Lee Grace, Karen Williams, Amazon number one bestselling author, speaker, BBC 2 radio, Steve Wright, Wham, Kim Wild, Boy George, Cola Boy, TEDx speaker, holistic living, the sober club, natural living, imperfectly natural woman, pr, marketing, book writing, imperfectly natural woman

Welcome to another episode of Business Book Bites!

I’m Karen Williams, your host, and in today’s episode I talk to John Lamerton, a normal bloke from Plymouth who now spends his time with millionaires and industry giants.

How did he do this? He wrote a book – well four actually (with a fifth on the way). We delve into how penning his books changed his life when it became a business card on steroids.

But if the process was easy, we probably wouldn’t be having this conversation. We talked about his first book which was a massive challenge, because he didn’t have a process and underestimated everything that needed to happen to turn his first draft into a published book. Then he found a book coach who helped him to get his book finished. He said never again after this first one, so when he later changed his mind, it made him create a process for it.

We chatted about his book writing routine, why you need to be able to summarise your book in a one-liner and how your book needs to fit into your business ecosystem. And we delved into his marketing strategy, and what it takes to become a bestselling author.

** Want the Business Book Bites Best Bits from all our episodes in series two? Go to www.librotas.com/bbb2 **

Highlights:

**Publishing Power**: Discover how writing a book can transform your business, create clarity in your message, and unlock doors to new and exciting opportunities.

**Commitment is Key**: Learn about the discipline and planning that goes into book writing – it's not a sprint to the finish line, but rather a marathon that requires consistency and dedication.

**Marketing Magic**: Uncover the critical importance of promoting your book and building a supportive ecosystem around it to create long-term client relationships and ongoing success.

Bio:

John Lamerton is a student of what works. He launched his first business in 2000 ‒an internet marketing company, despite knowing nothing about marketing, running a company, or ever owning a computer. He bought ‘Internet Marketing for Dummies’, read the book, and followed the instructions. Two decades (and more than 1,000 books later), he is still "reading the books" and "following the instructions". He is the author of four books ‒ ‘Big Ideas... for Small Businesses’, ‘Routine Machine’, ‘Evergreen Assets’, and ‘The False EXIT’.

Website: https://www.bigidea.co.uk
Socials: https://www.linkedin.com/in/johnlamerton

Time stamped overview:

03:17 Perfect moment turned into a legacy for kids.
07:51 Underestimated effort, need for thorough planning.
11:44 Crafting keynote speech by organising thoughts methodically.
13:21 Effective communication: capture audience's attention and engage.
18:36 Creating and selling books is hard work.
21:49 Books create ecosystems leading to client conversion.
24:43 Self-taught success, doubts about newfound lifestyle.
27:56 Embracing the unknown, changing lives through book publishing.
29:17 Condense book pitch to one precise message.
34:02 Hard work and perfection: crucial for success.

Discussion questions:

1. How has networking with influential individuals impacted John's business and writing career?
2. John's background is one of humble origins and self-learning. How does this influence his approach to business and writing?
3. Karen, you mentioned that publishing your book was a turning point. Can both of you share how writing a book can redefine a professional's career path?
4. How has refining your book's message during the writing process affected the final product?
5. John keeps a journal of book ideas. Why is continually generating ideas important, and how should one manage them?
6. Robert Kiyosaki's best-selling author approach was mentioned. How has this influenced your strategies for selling and marketing your books?
7. Writing a book doesn't automatically attract readers. What marketing techniques have you found to be the most successful?
8. Can you explain the concept of creating an ecosystem around a book and its role in fostering client relationships?
9. After publishing a successful first book, what insights can you provide authors approaching their second book?
10. Could you both give your perspective on setting expectations for book sales and understanding the realities of royalties?

Keywords: John Lamerton, Karen Williams, famous author, business connections, self-taught entrepreneur, book publishing, message clarity, writing process, book planning, book marketing, book ecosystem, long-term client relationships, Robert Kiyosaki, book promotion, book writing challenges, book coach, writing framework, keynote speech integration, book royalties, first business, marketing knowledge, Big Ideas for Small Businesses, Routine Machine, Evergreen Assets, The False Exit, entrepreneur legacy, podcasting, book writing improvement, ChatGPT

Welcome to the Business Book Bites podcast, where we give you a bite-sized taste of the insights and strategies from successful authors and business experts. In this episode, hosts Karen Williams and Sheryl Andrews discuss the upcoming second series of Business Book Bites.

Karen shares the best bits from the upcoming interviews, focusing on the secrets of successful authors. The new series delves deep into the book writing journey, publishing experiences, marketing strategies, and power of networking for business authors. Get ready for an inspiring and informative series that will equip you with the tools to make a bigger impact in the world of business and writing.

Want the Business Book Bites Best Bits from all our episodes in series two? Go to www.librotas.com/bbb2

Highlights:

** Planning **: Successful authors emphasise the importance of creating a solid plan for their books. Whether it's post-it notes, flip charts, or working with mentors, planning is crucial to a smooth writing and publishing process.

** Personal Experience **: Every author interviewed for the second series has had a personal experience that drove them to write their book. Their personal stories and insights are what drive the message and passion behind their writing.

** Marketing and Promotion **: It's not just about writing a great book, but also about actively marketing and promoting it. From storytelling to making valuable connections, successful authors find creative ways to get the word out about their books.

Bio:
Karen Williams is The Book Mentor at Librotas®, a leading authority in helping experts, entrepreneurs, and leaders write and market non-fiction books. Having started out in business in 2006, and writing her first book in 2009, she knows the difference that writing a book can make to your business when done well. With a focus on sharing significant stories and memorable messages, Karen guides her clients through the entire process of planning, writing, marketing, and launching a book that boosts credibility, attracts new clients, and creates exciting opportunities. Karen is the bestselling author of 10 books.

Sheryl Andrews is The Listening Detective and is known for helping you do more of what you love and ditch the critic that says you can’t. Sheryl spends her time supporting individuals to work, learn and live at their best, both independently and in groups, and her first book, Manage your Critic, was published in 2016. Sheryl works alongside Karen at Librotas, supporting the writing retreats in Spain, Author’s Journey interviews, and conversations like this!

Website: https://librotas.com

Socials:
https://www.facebook.com/librotas
https://x.com/librotas
https://www.linkedin.com/in/karenwilliamslibrotas/
https://www.instagram.com/karenwilliamslibrotas
https://www.youtube.com/@librotas

Time stamped overview:

00:00 Started podcast after years, enjoyed the learning process.
04:54 Interview with author highlights the importance of planning.
06:57 Writing brings self-awareness; personal experiences guide the process.
10:24 Successful authors must sell and promote books.
12:59 Connections and mindset vital for success.

Discussion questions:

1. How does Karen's experience as an author and host of the podcast Business Book Bites influence the direction and content of the show?
2. From the conversation, what are the key reasons Karen decided to pursue a second series of Business Book Bites, and how does this align with her goals for the podcast?
3. Various authors have taken different routes to publishing their books, including self-publishing, hybrid publishing, and traditional publishing. What are some of the insights shared by the authors interviewed regarding their publishing journeys?
4. What role does personal experience play in driving authors to write their books, and how does it influence the content and authenticity of their work?
5. In the context of book planning, what are some of the challenges and benefits of having a well-structured plan, as highlighted by the interviewees?
6. How do the interviewees discuss the importance of storytelling and sharing personal experiences in their books, and what impact does this have on their writing and connection with readers?
7. Based on the discussion around marketing and promotion of books, what are some unexpected methods that the authors have used to effectively promote their work, and what insights have been shared about the necessity of ongoing book promotion?
8. What has been the role of connections and relationships in the success of the interviewed authors, as well as their approach to expanding the reach of their books?
9. From the perspective of an aspiring author or podcast listener, how can the insights shared in the episode contribute to a deeper understanding of the challenges and opportunities in the world of book publishing and promotion?
10. As a result of this conversation, what are the expectations for the upcoming series of Business Book Bites, and how might the lessons shared by the authors influence the perspectives and strategies of Karen as host of the show?

Keywords:

Karen Williams, Business Book Bites podcast, Bestselling author, Book marketing, writing retreat, Sheryl Andrews, Author, Marketing experts, Successful authors, Book publishing, Self-publishing, Hybrid publishing, Traditional publishing, Author promotion, Marketing plan, book ecosystem, book coaching, book mentoring, Book promotion strategies, Book tour, the book mentor, librotas

Welcome to this episode of Business Book Bites, where we dive into the wibbles and wobbles of holding a book launch.

Our podcast host, Karen Williams, finds herself in the hot seat again, being interviewed by Sheryl Andrews for this final episode of series one.

In this episode, Karen shares her experience and reveals what worked, what didn't, and what she learned from her recent Amazon Bestseller book launch for Book Marketing Made Simple and the Book Marketing Planner. As a seasoned author with many bestsellers under her belt, Karen provides valuable insights and advice for anyone looking to launch their own book.

Join us as we discuss the importance of having a plan, the ripple effect of a book launch, building a supportive network, and the post-launch strategy.

FREE BONUS: You can get all the free bonuses from our podcast guests at www.librotas.com/podcastbonuses.

GET THE BOOK: Get your copy of Book Marketing Made Simple and the Book Marketing Planner at www.bookmarketingmadesimple.com.

Guest: Karen Williams

Bio: Karen Williams is The Book Mentor at Librotas®, a leading authority in helping experts, entrepreneurs, and leaders write and market non-fiction books. Having started out in business in 2006, and writing her first book in 2009, she knows the difference that writing a book can make to your business when done well. With a focus on sharing significant stories and memorable messages, Karen guides her clients through the entire process of planning, writing, marketing, and launching a book that boosts credibility, attracts new clients, and creates exciting opportunities. Karen is the bestselling author of 10 books.

Website: http://www.librotas.com

Socials:

https://www.facebook.com/librotas
https://twitter.com/librotas https://www.linkedin.com/in/karenwilliamslibrotas https://www.instagram.com/karenwilliamslibrotas

Key topics and bullets:

Primary Topic: What worked in the book launch

• Having a plan in place
• Following a documented process
• Adapting and updating the process
• Becoming an Amazon bestseller
• Allowing enough time for the launch
• Getting support from others

Primary Topic: Importance of working towards Amazon bestseller

• Creating a ripple effect and reaching more people
• Increased book sales and visibility
• Building a network for support
• Not doing the launch alone

Primary Topic: Building an ongoing marketing strategy

• Planning for post-launch activities
• Adding elements into existing systems
• Continuing to do podcast interviews and other promotional activities
• Having a plan in mind, even if not yet written down
• Documenting plans for intensifying activities and getting team support

Primary Topic: Wibbles and wobbles in the book launch

• Not accurately estimating the time required for certain tasks
• Potential disappointment if Amazon bestseller status is not achieved
• Challenges in maintaining focus and planning post-launch activities

Time stamped overview:

00:02:17 Not enough time, but Amazon bestseller important.
00:04:26 Building networks, seeking support key to success.
00:09:32 Team discussed pros and cons, impact considered.
00:10:59 Life is unpredictable, take action now.
00:14:21 Learning from mistakes, embracing resilience and reflection.
00:17:41 Ask for help, choose launch style, celebrate achievement.

Discussion questions:

1. How important is having a plan in place for a successful book launch?
2. What are the benefits of becoming an Amazon bestseller?
3. How can a book launch create a ripple effect and reach more people?
4. What role does building a network and asking for help play in a successful book launch?
5. Why is it important to have a strategy for marketing after the initial book launch?
6. How can documenting and sharing your post-launch plan help in receiving support and assistance?
7. What are some potential pitfalls or challenges in a book launch?
8. How can authors avoid exhaustion and maintain momentum after a launch?
9. What are the advantages of having a long-term marketing strategy for a book?
10. How can the experiences shared in this episode help authors feel supported and prepared for their own book launches?

Keywords: book launch, Amazon Bestseller, plan, Book Marketing Made Simple, Book Marketing Planner, podcast, street team, Amazon launch, podcast interviews, book marketing strategy, radio interview, business show, book promotion, book marketing