In this episode of Leading You, Julie Hyde is joined by Jaqui Lane, business historian, author, and founder of The Book Advisor, for a grounded conversation about why writing a book remains one of the most powerful ways to build thought leadership and credibility.

With more than 20 years in publishing and over 400 business books behind her, Jaqui brings rare clarity to what actually stops capable leaders from writing. It’s not confidence. It’s not talent. It’s a lack of structure, direction, and understanding who the book is really for.

Julie and Jaqui explore the shift that happens when you stop writing for yourself and start writing for your audience. They talk about the fears that surface when people consider writing, the myths that keep books stuck in drawers, and the mistakes that cost time, energy, and momentum.

This conversation also unpacks why a book is more than a personal milestone. It’s a strategic asset. One that can articulate your thinking, open doors, and position you as a trusted authority long after the writing is finished.

If you’ve ever felt the pull to write a book, questioned whether you have something worth saying, or wondered if a book still matters in today’s content-heavy world, this episode will give you clarity and perspective without overwhelm.

Conversation Talking Points

• Why so many leaders want to write a book but never begin
• The difference between expertise and clarity
• Writing for your audience, not your ego
• Common myths that derail first-time authors
• How a book builds authority without self-promotion
• The rise of self-publishing and owning your IP
• Imposter syndrome, visibility, and fear of judgement
• Why writing a book changes the author as much as the reader

Time Stamps

00:00 Welcome and introduction
01:20 Meet Jaqui Lane and her publishing background
03:50 Why so many people want to write a book
06:30 What actually stops people from starting
09:10 Writing for your audience, not yourself
12:20 The biggest mistakes new authors make
15:40 How a book builds credibility and authority
18:50 Books as strategic business assets
22:30 Self-publishing, ownership, and industry shifts
26:40 Imposter syndrome and fear of visibility
30:20 Why writing a book changes the writer
34:10 What to do if you feel the nudge to write
37:40 Final reflections and where to find Jaqui
39:00 Outro and closing

 

Links:
Learn more about my group coaching program here

Connect with Julie:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/julie-hyde/
Instagram: @juliehydeleads
Website: https://juliehyde.com.au

 

Connect with Jaqui:
Website: https://thebookadviser.com.au/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thebookadviser3764
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jaquilane/

 

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