In this episode, we explore the massive shifts unfolding in the publishing world — and what it means for authors, coaches, creatives, and experts who want their work to have real, lasting impact.  If you are ready to step into authorship as leadership and create a book that anchors your authority in 2026, this episode will help you see the path clearly

AI acceleration, content saturation, and declining trust in traditional media are changing how readers choose who to listen to. Books are no longer just products. They’re becoming credibility anchors — and in a noisy, distracted world, your energy, coherence and leadership will speak louder than your strategy ever could.

In this episode I dive deep into my 2026 predictions and how they will affect creatives, coaches, experts and healers globally. This is a must-listen for anyone who wants to build brand authority with a book in 2026 that will stand the test of time, build true trust, be known not just for what they teach — but for how they lead.

Key Highlights:

00:00 – Why the podcast returned and why 2026 is a pivotal year for authors

05:25 – The global shifts impacting publishing, trust, and attention

17:36 – Why books are becoming credibility anchors, not just products

20:18 – The return to long-form thinking, depth, and movement led nonfiction

27:06 – What AI means for authors and how to stay differentiated and aligned

36:48 – The non-negotiables for author visibility and personal brands in 2026  

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About Vanessa Barrington

I’m Vanessa Barrington — a Book Doula, publisher, speaker, and the founder of Healing House Publishing.

For most of my life, I worked with words — across journalism, media, marketing and publishing — helping other people shape their stories, build their brands, and be seen. I led narrative and brand strategy in complex, high-stakes environments, including work with multibillion-dollar organisations, where I learned how stories shape trust, influence culture, and move people at scale.

For a long time, I ignored my own.

I could see the power in stories. I could see how they heal, connect, and change lives. I just didn’t fully trust my own voice yet.

When my intuitive and psychic abilities opened, everything changed. I realised that stories aren’t just content or strategy — they’re medicine. And when they’re shared at the right time, in the right way, they don’t just change careers. They change people.

That realisation is what led me to become a Book Doula, and to found Healing House Publishing.

Today, I bring together a rare intersection of psychic mediumship, strategic brand positioning, media expertise and publishing mastery. I’ve published dozens of books, taught my book birthing methodology on international stages, and supported hundreds of authors — healers, coaches, creatives and experts — to unlock their voice, trust their story, and create work that builds authority, impact and legacy.

My work exists to rebalance an industry that too often prioritises platforms over people, and to help powerful voices step forward without waiting for permission to be seen, heard, or taken seriously.

Stay Connected: Subscribe to the podcast by hitting the 'Follow' or 'Subscribe' button on the show page. 

Follow Vanessa on Instagram: @book_doula_au @healinghousepublishing @vanessabarrington.au

Ready to write and sell your book? Get on the Priority List for The Book Doula Program: 
https://www.thebookdoula.com.au/waitlist

Ready to publish your book? Visit Healing House Publishing: https://www.healinghousepublishing.com

Thank you for tuning in! Your journey to clarity, confidence, and financial freedom starts here. 🌟✨
If you love this episode please take a minute to leave a review! xxx 

  LINKS:

→ Freebie of the Week Get the first 5 steps to write your book and download my powerful free guide: 
https://www.thebookdoula.com.au/first  
→Follow me on Instagram @book_doula_au @healinghousepublishing