Summary:

As the year draws to a close, it’s time to reflect on the lessons of 2024 and look ahead to the opportunities of 2025.

In this final installment of my Robin’s Holiday Riff series, I share how to build a strong foundation for your publishing journey in 2025. 

From refining your ideas to ensuring you’re ready to take that next big step, I’ll guide you through the critical elements that set successful authors apart.

In episode #174 of The Author’s Corner, In this Robin Riff, Robin explores how to lay the foundation for a successful publishing journey. From sharpening your message to ensuring your platform is ready to support your goals, this episode dives into the critical elements that can transform your ideas into a polished, impactful book. Along the way, listeners will also uncover the seven pillars of publishing success—essential insights that will prepare them to take their book from concept to completion with confidence.

Key takeaways:

• Why setting goals is crucial for your writing journey.
• The surprising impact of continuous improvement.
• How fresh perspectives can unlock new ideas.
• Why building a following can make or break your success.
• The secret to actually achieving your writing goals.
• The often-overlooked importance of patience.
• Why engaging with your audience matters more than you think.
• And much more!

Resources mentioned in this episode:

• Vistage – Peer advisory group for CEOs and entrepreneurs.
• ChatGPT – AI tool for writing assistance and content creation.
• Grammarly – AI-powered writing assistant for grammar and style improvement.
• David Neagle – Personal development coach and mentor.

About Robin Colucci:

Robin Colucci is the principal founder of World Changing Books. With over 3 decades of experience in journalism and the publishing industry, she is a multi-hyphenated professional—she's a guide, mentor, and strategist for thought leaders ready to see their expertise and ideas become a lasting legacy that changes the world.

Under Robin's expert guidance, World Changing Books has helped authors—from CEOs, astronauts, and Nobel laureates to emerging voices—secure over $6.3 million in advances in a mere 4 years. These authors have successfully landed deals with “Big 5” publishers, won prestigious awards, and earned bestseller statuses everywhere from Amazon to The New York Times.

Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share!

• Here’s How »

Join The Author’s Corner Community today:

• http://robincolucci.com/
• LinkedIn
• Instagram
• Facebook

Summary:

As winter sets in, there’s no better time to cozy up with a great book—and Robin has the perfect recommendations for you.

In this second installment of Robin’s Holiday Riff series, Robin is sharing the top three winter reads that will inspire, guide, and elevate you as an aspiring author.

In episode #173 of The Author’s Corner, Robin highlights two must-read books that can transform your writing journey and shares a special recommendation of several types of books every aspiring author should explore. From pushing through writer’s block to understanding how to craft messages that truly resonate, these reads will help you grow your skills and set you up for success in 2025.

Key takeaways:

• Why reading is essential for becoming a better writer.
• The benefit of non-fiction books
• The importance of studying different writing styles
• Tips for writing about sensitive topics.
• How reading widely can enhance your writing skills.
• And much more!

Resources mentioned in this episode:

• How to Write a Book That Sells You by Robin Colucci
• Joy Writing by Kenn Amdahl
• The Blind Side, The Big Short, Moneyball by Michael Lewis
• The Tipping Point, Outliers, What the Dog Saw by Malcolm Gladwell
• The U2 Affair, The Invisible Government, Tiger Trap by David Wise
• Ellen Goodman
• I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings, Heart of a Woman by Maya Angelou
• Anything We Love Can Be Saved by Alice Walker
• All About Love by Bell Hooks

About Robin Colucci:

Robin Colucci is the principal founder of World Changing Books. With over 3 decades of experience in journalism and the publishing industry, she is a multi-hyphenated professional—she's a guide, mentor, and strategist for thought leaders ready to see their expertise and ideas become a lasting legacy that changes the world.

Under Robin's expert guidance, World Changing Books has helped authors—from CEOs, astronauts, and Nobel laureates to emerging voices—secure over $6.3 million in advances in a mere 4 years. These authors have successfully landed deals with “Big 5” publishers, won prestigious awards, and earned bestseller statuses everywhere from Amazon to The New York Times.

Spread the word:

• LinkedIn
• Twitter
• Instagram
• Facebook

Summary:

As we close out 2024, I’m excited to guide you into the new year with the first of three installments of my Robin’s Holiday Riff series.

In this first episode, I’ll share valuable lessons from writing, navigating publishing, book promotion, author support, and more—helping you enter the new year with fresh insights and inspiration you won’t want to miss.

In episode #172 of Author's Corner, Robin reflects on the lessons learned from a year of writing and publishing. She discusses the significant effort and investment required for book promotion, the importance of supporting aspiring authors, and the necessity of visibility in sharing one's message. Robin emphasizes the value of feedback and the continuous learning process in the creative journey, culminating in her own experiences with a one-woman show and future performances.

Key takeaways:

• The unexpected effort behind book promotion
• Why readers are the key to a world-changing book
• The importance of support in growing your author audience
• The power of feedback in refining your work
• Why waiting to feel ready could hold you back
• Seeking advice from those who’ve achieved what you want
• Why sharing and testing your content leads to real progress
• And much more!

About Robin Colucci:

Robin Colucci is the principal founder of World Changing Books. With over 3 decades of experience in journalism and the publishing industry, she is a multi-hyphenated professional—she's a guide, mentor, and strategist for thought leaders ready to see their expertise and ideas become a lasting legacy that changes the world.

Under Robin's expert guidance, World Changing Books has helped authors—from CEOs, astronauts, and Nobel laureates to emerging voices—secure over $6.3 million in advances in a mere 4 years. These authors have successfully landed deals with “Big 5” publishers, won prestigious awards, and earned bestseller statuses everywhere from Amazon to The New York Times.

Spread the word:

• LinkedIn
• Twitter
• Instagram
• Facebook

Summary:

As we close out 2024, I’m excited to guide you into the new year with the first of three installments of my Robin’s Holiday Riff series.

In this first episode, I’ll share valuable lessons from writing, navigating publishing, book promotion, author support, and more—helping you enter the new year with fresh insights and inspiration you won’t want to miss.

In episode #172 of Author's Corner, Robin reflects on the lessons learned from a year of writing and publishing. She discusses the significant effort and investment required for book promotion, the importance of supporting aspiring authors, and the necessity of visibility in sharing one's message. Robin emphasizes the value of feedback and the continuous learning process in the creative journey, culminating in her own experiences with a one-woman show and future performances.

Key takeaways:

• The unexpected effort behind book promotion
• Why readers are the key to a world-changing book
• The importance of support in growing your author audience
• The power of feedback in refining your work
• Why waiting to feel ready could hold you back
• Seeking advice from those who’ve achieved what you want
• Why sharing and testing your content leads to real progress
• And much more!

About Robin Colucci:

Robin Colucci is the principal founder of World Changing Books. With over 3 decades of experience in journalism and the publishing industry, she is a multi-hyphenated professional—she's a guide, mentor, and strategist for thought leaders ready to see their expertise and ideas become a lasting legacy that changes the world.

Under Robin's expert guidance, World Changing Books has helped authors—from CEOs, astronauts, and Nobel laureates to emerging voices—secure over $6.3 million in advances in a mere 4 years. These authors have successfully landed deals with “Big 5” publishers, won prestigious awards, and earned bestseller statuses everywhere from Amazon to The New York Times.

Spread the word:

• LinkedIn
• Twitter
• Instagram
• Facebook

Summary:

Ever wondered how ChatGPT and other AI systems can help you write your book faster without risking plagiarism? 

Robin’s exploring just that in this new episode of The Author’s Corner!

And if you’re new to using AI in writing, you’re not alone—Robin’s diving into it too!

In episode #171, Robin shares her first insights on leveraging AI in the book-writing process, focusing on two main tools: plagiarism detection and rephrasing. Robin discusses how AI can catch unintentional plagiarism and assist in rewording passages to maintain originality, all while emphasizing the importance of preserving your voice and giving credit where it’s due. She highlights practical tips for fact-checking and ensuring proper citations, especially with AI’s occasional tendency to reference secondary sources over originals.

Key takeaways:

• How AI can help detect unintentional plagiarism
• The role of AI in rewording content to maintain originality
• The importance of editing AI-generated text to match your voice
• Why citing original sources is crucial, even when rewording
• How to ensure accuracy when using AI to rephrase
• The value of fact-checking AI content
• And much more!

About Robin Colucci:

Robin Colucci is the principal founder of World Changing Books. With over 3 decades of experience in journalism and the publishing industry, she is a multi-hyphenated professional—she's a guide, mentor, and strategist for thought leaders ready to see their expertise and ideas become a lasting legacy that changes the world.

Under Robin's expert guidance, World Changing Books has helped authors—from CEOs, astronauts, and Nobel laureates to emerging voices—secure over $6.3 million in advances in a mere 4 years. These authors have successfully landed deals with “Big 5” publishers, won prestigious awards, and earned bestseller statuses everywhere from Amazon to The New York Times.

Spread the word:

• LinkedIn
• Twitter
• Instagram
• Facebook

Summary:

Ever wondered how to get a TV interview? Our latest episode reveals the insider secrets to making it happen!

If you’re an author or expert aiming to gain media exposure, this conversation is full of tips and strategies you won’t want to miss. Today’s guest, seasoned news anchor and TV host Nicole Nalepa, shares her unique perspective on what it takes to stand out to anchors and producers.

In episode #170 of The Author’s Corner,  Nicole Nalepa talks about her journey from morning news anchor to co-host of Great Day at 9A and host of Mommyhood Unscripted, now airing as a TV show. She unpacks key tactics for crafting an email pitch, common mistakes to avoid, and the importance of authenticity in connecting with media gatekeepers. Tune in for Nicole’s expert advice on navigating the TV interview process and getting your story the attention it deserves!

Key takeaways:

• Explore the importance of pursuing your passion and dreams.
• Discover how to effectively pitch a story.
• Learn the significance of concise and engaging communication.
• Uncover the benefits of personalized pitches.
• Recognize the value of authenticity in media appearances.
• Explore strategies for increasing your chances of being invited as a guest.
• And much more!

Resources mentioned in this episode:

• Nicole’s Podcast: Mommyhood Unscripted
• WFSB-TV News
• Nicole’s Favorite Book: My Name is Memory by Ann Brashares

About Nicole Nalepa:

Nicole Nalepa is a seasoned news anchor, TV host, and podcast producer known for her mom-focused show, Mommyhood Unscripted. After over a decade waking up Connecticut on WFSB-TV’s morning news, she transitioned to a daylight role, now co-hosting Great Day at 9A and the Noon newscast with segments like Family Friday and 3 Things You Need to Know & 1 You Don’t. Her Mommyhood Unscripted podcast, featuring candid conversations with experts on motherhood, also became a TV show on WWAX, airing Sundays at 8:30 a.m. Nicole's journalistic experience includes covering major events like the Boston Marathon bombing manhunt and Hurricane Sandy.

Spread the word:

• LinkedIn
• Twitter
• Instagram
• Facebook

Summary:

If you missed our last Robin’s Riff, you might not know it’s National Book Month! 

As an editor and lifelong book lover, I’ve been reflecting on why I read—and I’m excited to share some thoughts in this week’s episode of The Author’s Corner. 

Whether you’re a fellow word geek or just enjoy getting lost in a good mystery, I think you’ll relate!

In Episode #169 of The Author’s Corner, Robin shares her personal reasons for reading, emphasizing its value in her life. She discusses reading as an editor, for pleasure, to gain knowledge, and as a means to relax. Colucci highlights the joy of engaging with different genres, including mysteries and humor, and the importance of reading print books for better sleep. She invites listeners to reflect on their own reading habits and the benefits they derive from books.

Key takeaways:

• The unique value reading brings to life
• Why editing feels like solving a puzzle
• Exploring guilty pleasure reads like mysteries
• How print books can improve your sleep
• The surprising benefits of reading before bed
• The balance between entertaining and informative reads
• Gaining insights from historical books
• And much more!

About Robin Colucci:

Robin Colucci is the principal founder of World Changing Books. With over 3 decades of experience in journalism and the publishing industry, she is a multi-hyphenated professional—she's a guide, mentor, and strategist for thought leaders ready to see their expertise and ideas become a lasting legacy that changes the world.

Under Robin's expert guidance, World Changing Books has helped authors—from CEOs, astronauts, and Nobel laureates to emerging voices—secure over $6.3 million in advances in a mere 4 years. These authors have successfully landed deals with “Big 5” publishers, won prestigious awards, and earned bestseller statuses everywhere from Amazon to The New York Times.

Spread the word:

• LinkedIn
• Twitter
• Instagram
• Facebook

Summary:

Ever wondered how storytelling can ignite social change and inspire communities? Our latest episode dives deep into this compelling topic!

If you’re passionate about using your writing to address critical societal issues, this conversation is packed with insights you won’t want to miss. Today’s guest, an acclaimed author and publishing expert, shares her profound understanding of the power of narrative in activism!

In episode #168 of The Author’s Corner, Dr. Amanda Nell Edgar discusses her journey from academia to founding Page & Podium Press. She unpacks how authentic storytelling can create real impact, debunks the myth of writer's block, and introduces the four quadrants of storytelling that resonate with readers. Make sure to listen in for Amanda’s expert advice on embracing vulnerability in your writing and leveraging your narrative to champion social justice!

Key takeaways:

• Explore the importance of storytelling in addressing social justice issues
• Understand the misconceptions surrounding writer's block and how to overcome them
• Discover the elements that contribute to effective storytelling
• Learn how authenticity and clarity enhance reader connections
• Uncover the role of vulnerability in impactful narratives
• And much more!

Resources mentioned in this episode:

• Page & Podium Press Website
• Amanda Edgar’s Book: The Summer of 2020: George Floyd and the Resurgence of the Black Lives Matter Movement 

About Dr. Amanda Nell Edgar:

Dr. Amanda Nell Edgar is an award-winning author, ghostwriter, and the founder of Page & Podium Press. She co-authored The Summer of 2020: George Floyd and the Resurgence of the Black Lives Matter Movement , authored two nationally award-winning books, and ghostwritten many more. After a fifteen-year stint in academia, Amanda left university life to found Page & Podium Press, a publishing company that helps leaders share their stories and ideas through world-changing books. Additionally, Amanda has been invited to speak at organizations ranging from FedEx to the National Communication Association to the U.S. Department of State, sharing relatable examples and digestible philosophy on issues of identity, leadership, and socially conscious storytelling.

Spread the word:

• LinkedIn
• Twitter
• Instagram
• Facebook

Summary:

October is National Book Month, and it’s the perfect time to celebrate everything we love about books!

In honor of this, I’ve got some fun and simple ways to help you celebrate and reignite your love for books.

In Episode #167 of The Author’s Corner, Robin shares a few creative ideas on how to make the most of this special month, whether you're looking to discover something new or find a fresh way to enjoy your favorite reads. I’ve also got a surprising tip on how to refresh your bookshelf—and your mind—just in time for the fall reading season!

Key takeaways:

• The joys of visiting your local library this month
• Uncovering the charm of independent bookstores
• The unexpected power of writing reviews
• Engaging with kids to foster a love for reading
• Discovering the uniqueness of each independent bookstore
• The importance of supporting local bookstores
• And much more!

About Robin Colucci:

Robin Colucci is the principal founder of World Changing Books. With over 3 decades of experience in journalism and the publishing industry, she is a multi-hyphenated professional—she's a guide, mentor, and strategist for thought leaders ready to see their expertise and ideas become a lasting legacy that changes the world.

Under Robin's expert guidance, World Changing Books has helped authors—from CEOs, astronauts, and Nobel laureates to emerging voices—secure over $6.3 million in advances in a mere 4 years. These authors have successfully landed deals with “Big 5” publishers, won prestigious awards, and earned bestseller statuses everywhere from Amazon to The New York Times.

Spread the word:

• LinkedIn
• Twitter
• Instagram
• Facebook

Summary:

Ever wondered what it really takes to become a New York Times bestseller?

It’s a journey that requires strategy, dedication, and a deep understanding of the publishing industry!

Today, my guest, Michael Drew, a book marketing expert, joins us to share his incredible insights and experiences in helping authors achieve bestseller status.

In episode #166 of The Author’s Corner, Michael Drew shares his journey from high school dropout to helping authors achieve New York Times bestseller status. He discusses the role of bestseller lists in curating books for readers, the mechanics of publishing, and the challenges of getting books on retail shelves. Michael also highlights the need for a strong marketing platform, understanding publishing costs, and negotiating co-op budgets. He introduces the 741 rule, explaining how to reach customers through multiple channels, and outlines the five standards for making the New York Times list, while also mentioning other key bestseller lists.

Key takeaways:

• How tying your book back to your business can establish trust
• The importance of marketing and promotion in publishing
• Recognizing the challenges in the publishing industry
• The value of a bestseller lies in the effort to meet the standards
• What to expect regarding publishing expenses
• Understanding revenue breakdowns for better negotiations
• The 741 rule for effective customer engagement
• The five standards for qualifying for the New York Times bestseller list
• And more!

Resources mentioned in this episode:

• The Promotabook Website
• Google's Study Zero Momment of Truth
• The Wizard of Ads by Roy H. Williams

About Michael Drew:

Michael Drew is a book marketing expert, entrepreneur, and the CEO and founder of Promotabook. With over 26 years of experience in the publishing industry, Michael has launched 104 consecutive books onto national bestseller lists, including over 130 New York Times, Wall Street Journal, and USA Today bestsellers. He has also orchestrated more than 1,000 number-one Amazon titles. Michael’s strategic marketing campaigns have significantly boosted the visibility and profitability of numerous authors.

Spread the word:

• LinkedIn
• Twitter
• Instagram
• Facebook