Episodes

  • Book Structure: Are You a Planner or a Pantser?
    Oct 17 2024
    Are you someone who meticulously outlines your book before diving in, or do you prefer to let the words unfold naturally as you write? Understanding your writing style can significantly impact the ease and efficiency of your book-writing process. In today’s episode of the Business Book Bites podcast, Karen Williams and Sheryl Andrews dive into the fascinating world of writers, specifically focusing on the two distinct types: planners and pantsers. We'll provide insights into the importance of structure, share practical planning strategies, and explore various tech tools that can aid in the writing journey. Whether you're a planner or a pantser, this episode is packed with valuable tips to help you navigate the sometimes “messy middle” of writing a book. Plus, we'll touch on the role of AI in the creative process. If you’d like to find out more about how we can support you with your book, come along to one of our free monthly networking events, the Coffee and Connect Café (we meet on the first Tuesday of each month). If you are launching a book soon, check out our Book Launch Blueprint workshop on 11 November. You can find out more about this and our other upcoming events at https://www.librotas.com/librotasevents. Key insights Identify Your Natural Style: Planners create detailed outlines and roadmaps before writing, ensuring they stay on track. Pantsers prefer to write spontaneously, discovering the narrative as they go. Balance for Success: Both planning and pantsing have their merits. A balanced approach can help avoid potential pitfalls ‒ overplanning might lead to procrastination, while pantsing can result in excessive rewrites. Utilise Effective Tools: Explore various tools to enhance your writing process. For planners, tech tools like Miro, Mural, Trello, and Scrivener can be invaluable. For pantsers, a simple outline or bullet points before starting each chapter can work wonders. Embrace AI like ChatGPT for generating ideas and overcoming writer’s block. Bio – Karen Williams 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 and a TEDx speaker. Website: https://librotas.com Socials: https://www.facebook.com/librotashttps://twitter.com/librotashttps://www.linkedin.com/in/karenwilliamslibrotas/ https://www.instagram.com/karenwilliamslibrotas https://www.youtube.com/@librotas Bio – Sheryl Andrews 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 and she is currently writing her second. Website: https://stepbysteplistening.com Time-stamped overview: 00:00 Writing styles balance structure and storytelling preferences.05:21 Creative process varies: structure helps or hinders.08:54 Post-it notes aid in effective information recall.12:35 Helps determine essential content for book clarity.14:37 Writing a book requires clarity and purpose.18:29 Writing helps process experiences; stay focused, purposeful.20:31 Ensure reader understanding by explaining thoroughly.24:16 Advise: Outline chapters; decide content inclusion.27:06 Use AI for structuring and generating ideas. Keywords: writers, planners, pantsers, book structure, planning strategies, writing process, writing tech tools, scrivener, storytelling, chapter planning, writing support, book themes, book content organization, therapeutic writing, writing journey, book deadlines, creative book process, writing ideas, book editing, writing tools, writing techniques, writing productivity, book coach, book mentor, book podcast, business podcast, book planning miro, book planning mural
    Show more Show less
    29 mins
  • Are you cheating if you hire a ghostwriter?
    Oct 10 2024
    Welcome to another exciting episode of Business Book Bites! Today we have a fascinating conversation lined up with Becky Rogers, a talented ghostwriter, author, and entrepreneur.

    Becky has mastered the art of turning complex ideas into clear and compelling stories. In this episode, Karen Williams chats with Becky about her unconventional journey from medical science to ghostwriting, the valuable lessons she's learned along the way, and the incredible benefits of working with a ghostwriter.

    If you wonder if hiring a ghostwriter is cheating, or you want to learn how a ghostwriter retains the author's unique voice, you’re in for a treat. We cover some essential tips for anyone looking to dive into the world of writing – whether you are writing it yourself, working with a book mentor or contemplating hiring a ghostwriter.

    Becky is a regular attendee at our monthly Coffee and Connect Café networking events. Our next online event is on Tuesday 5 November at 12pm GMT. You can check out all our events and sign up here: www.librotas.com/librotasevents.

    Key Takeaways

    • Bringing Your Ideas to Life: Whether you're struggling to find the time or unsure how to start, a ghostwriter ensures your book not only gets written but captures your unique voice and vision.


    • Flexibility and Adaptability: Becky's journey from medical science to ghostwriting highlights the importance of staying open-minded and adaptable to new opportunities.


    • Effective Collaboration for Success: Discover the benefits of co-writing with an expert, ensuring faster completion, enhanced quality, and a true reflection of your ideas.


    Bio

    Becky Rogers is an accomplished ghostwriter, author, and entrepreneur, who helps aspiring authors turn their ideas into published books.

    With over 12 years of experience writing in highly technical fields like accounting and medical science, Becky has a knack for making complex topics clear and compelling. Driven by her love for research and storytelling, she ensures that each book communicates its message effectively while authentically capturing her clients' distinct voices.

    Becky’s achievements include a published paper in the esteemed medical journal - BMJ Journals - and co-authoring the upcoming book “Beyond You: How to Grow Your Accounting Firm from £50k to £250k.” When she’s not writing, you’ll find Becky outdoors, with her dogs, or drinking one of many cups of tea.

    Website: https://www.beckyrogers.co.uk

    Socials: https://www.instagram.com/publishedexperts https://www.linkedin.com/in/beckyrogersbiz

    Time stamped overview:

    00:00 From medical science papers to travel blogging.
    06:53 Addressing fears helps expedite and improve writing.
    09:18 Live by the "who," not "how," framework.
    13:51 Collaboration accelerates strategy, marketing, writing; speeds process.
    17:00 Co-writing involves understanding and mirroring speaker's language.
    20:49 Planning ahead makes writing easier and productive.
    21:52 Interesting point: dopamine cycle drives positive momentum.

    Keywords: ghostwriter, ghostwriting, book writing, Becky Rogers, Karen Williams, storytelling, published author, BMJ journals, co-authoring, blog writing, content business, writing journey, book coach, newsletter content, social media content, technical writing, book publishing, clear storytelling, complex topics, business writing, ghostwriting process, author voice, voice matching, writing tips, content strategy, book launch, book mentor, hiring a ghostwriter
    Show more Show less
    23 mins
  • Career Trends and Crowdfunding Success
    Oct 3 2024
    Welcome to another episode of Business Book Bites! Today I am chatting with Della Judd. Della, an accomplished author, podcaster, and executive coach, who shares her journey of transforming a career coaching book into a deeply impactful writing project. In this episode, you'll hear about Della’s collaborative effort with her daughter to create a student-friendly adaptation, the courage required to share unique perspectives, and the importance of turning your ideas into written words. We'll dive into the meticulous research and structured approach that helped her craft her book, ‘Get the Job You Really Want, in a Post Pandemic World’, and how it became a vital resource during a time of significant change. She discusses the shifts in work-life balance emerging from the pandemic, and the ongoing challenges with stress and burnout in the workplace. Della also reveals valuable strategies for maintaining accountability and discipline throughout the writing process, alongside her very successful book crowdfunding campaign. We explore her exciting new ventures, including publishing her grandfather's World War II diaries, and how these projects continue a rich family tradition of writing. Whether you're an aspiring author or looking to glean insights on business and personal growth, this episode is packed with actionable advice and heartwarming stories. And, if you’d like help with your book, like Della, then check out our upcoming events at www.librotas.com/librotasevents. Our next free online Coffee and Connect Café networking event is on Tuesday 5 November at 12pm BST and we are also running an online BookLaunch Blueprint workshop on Monday 11 November – perfect if you want to learn how to become an Amazon bestseller. 3 Key Takeaways: Be Brave and Share Your Unique Story: Della emphasized the importance of recognizing the value of your personal experiences. She encourages budding authors to start by jotting down ideas and trusting in the uniqueness of their perspective. Embrace Accountability and Deadlines: Della shared that setting strict deadlines and having an accountability partner or support group can significantly boost productivity and maintain momentum in writing projects. Balancing Research and Personal Insight: Her approach involves merging detailed research with personal anecdotes and case studies, providing a comprehensive and relatable narrative. This balance ensures credibility while keeping the content engaging. Bio: Della Judd is a writer, podcaster and executive coach. She has always been interested in writing - it runs in the family. As well as publishing a business book, she is now working on writing a military history and publishing her grandfather’s second world war diaries. Website: www.dellajudd.co.uk www.synjonbooks.co.uk Socials: www.facebook.com/mygrandadsWW2diarywww.linkedin.com/in/della-judd-career-coachwww.linkedin.com/company/synjon-books Time stamped overview: 00:00 Writer turned coach, then shared more widely.03:47 Post-pandemic stress prompts re-evaluation of life priorities.07:54 Research, interviews, case studies for book content.12:29 Balancing coaching and writing proved challenging; scheduled mornings.15:05 Accountability and realistic timelines helped my publishing process.17:53 Created giant business card, gained private clients.21:22 Family history enthusiasts publish multiple historical books.25:51 Transcribing grandmother's story; daughter pursuing creative writing.28:12 Being brave: Unique perspectives add value. Keywords: business book transformation, career coaching book, Della Judd, synjonbooks.co.uk, WWII diaries book structure organization, writing deadlines, writing productivity tips, executive coaching, post-pandemic career coaching, career change workbook, workplace stress, employee lifestyle changes, writing validation, research-backed writing, crowdfunding campaign success, family writing legacy, book podcast, writing journey, career coaching, business books, book crowdfunder
    Show more Show less
    30 mins
  • Stop Trading Time for Money Creating an Ecosystem Around Your Book
    Sep 26 2024
    In today's episode of the Business Book Bites podcast, Karen Williams and Sheryl Andrews unpack how books can serve as central hubs in business ecosystems, streamlining communication, saving time, and extending their value across various platforms like courses, webinars, and podcasts. We explore the importance of understanding the "why" behind your actions and how that clarity can drive common goals, whether it's for financial profit, helping others, or publishing a groundbreaking book. And we discuss the importance of having a robust support network and the significance of systematisation to make content memorable and processes efficient. Books not only disseminate knowledge but also build a self-sustaining marketing ecosystem, enhancing your brand and legacy over time. For anyone looking to leverage their book for long-term success and build a sustainable ecosystem around it, today's episode is a treasure trove of practical tips and inspirational stories. We mention Karen’s interview with John Lamerton in series two, which you can find via our podcast page: www.librotas.com/podcast. You can check out Book Marketing Made Simple, the second edition of which was launched a year ago this week here. If you’d like to find out more about how we can support you with your book, come along to one of our free monthly networking events, the Coffee and Connect Café. You can find out more about this and our other upcoming events at https://www.librotas.com/librotasevents. Key insights Ecosystem Leverage: A book should serve as a central hub, radiating out into various facets of your business ‒ webinars, courses, talks, membership, retreats and more. This holistic approach ensures your message reaches a broader audience effectively. Collaboration is Crucial: Writing a book isn't a solitary endeavour. Leveraging a supportive network, seeking feedback, and delegating tasks can transform the writing process and enhance the final output. Evergreen Content: Your book and the derivative content from it (such as top tips or courses) can offer lasting value, continuously reaching new audiences without constant direct involvement. Bio – Karen Williams 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 and a TEDx speaker. Website: https://librotas.com Socials: https://www.facebook.com/librotashttps://twitter.com/librotashttps://www.linkedin.com/in/karenwilliamslibrotas/ https://www.instagram.com/karenwilliamslibrotas https://www.youtube.com/@librotas Bio – Sheryl Andrews 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 and she is currently writing her second. Website: https://stepbysteplistening.com Time-stamped overview: 00:00 Using a book aligns and enhances client engagements.06:00 Book forms business ecosystem, supported by interconnected content.09:15 Reconnecting curiosity, marketing clarity, outsourcing, creating effective ecosystems.11:58 Evergreen content aids continuous outreach and influence.17:44 Book writing clarifies big picture and details.18:54 Illustrating ideas with infographics enhances comprehension.25:20 Book writing clarifies strengths and fosters effective communication.29:21 Delegate, collaborate, plan for success and failures.31:15 Clarity, goals, delegation, support, confidence, change, resources.34:06 Take action, one step at a time. Keywords: writing books, book leveraging, book ecosystem, content creation, book marketing, book scalability, stop trading time for money, business tech tools, business outsourcing, book mentor, personal brand, evergreen content, book publishing, business systematization, book strategic planning, authority book, writing a business book
    Show more Show less
    36 mins
  • Nailing the Perfect Book Idea Finding Your Book’s Sweet Spot
    Sep 19 2024
    Have you ever wondered how to find the perfect idea for your book? Especially when you’re likely to have decades of experience and hundreds of interesting stories. It's one of the challenges that stops many business authors from getting started. It often leads to procrastination, overthinking, and getting stuck in perfectionism. If you are fed up with putting your book off, then you’ll love today’s Business Book Bites podcast episode. Karen Williams and Sheryl Andrews dive into one of the most crucial steps in writing a business book: finding and validating your book idea. From discussing how to test commercial viability to aligning your passion with market demand, we cover actionable insights tailored to help you find your book’s sweet spot. We explore the importance of getting feedback, adapting to trends, and ensuring your book idea resonates with your target audience. We'll also discuss common pitfalls and proactive strategies to keep your motivation high and your content relevant. Whether you're brainstorming your book idea, refining your concept, or dealing with writer's block, get ready for a conversation that could very well be the turning point in your book-writing journey. In this episode, we talk about the Business Book Planner, which you can purchase via Amazon. You can find out more about our upcoming events at https://librotas.com/librotasevents. Key insights ● Start with the End in Mind: Understand the ultimate vision for your book, both for you and your readers. This helps in aligning your book idea with your business goals and ensuring you’re writing about something that excites you and resonates with your audience. ● Test for Commercial Viability: Use surveys, polls, interviews, and client conversations to ensure your book idea meets market demand. Sharing snippets early on can provide invaluable feedback and assist in refining your concept. ● Focus on Your Ideal Reader: Get clear on who they are, what they need, and how they consume information. This will guide the tone, style, and content of your book, making it both engaging and actionable. Bio – Karen Williams 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 and a TEDx speaker. Website: https://librotas.com Socials: https://www.facebook.com/librotashttps://twitter.com/librotashttps://www.linkedin.com/in/karenwilliamslibrotas/https://www.instagram.com/karenwilliamslibrotashttps://www.youtube.com/@librotas Bio – Sheryl Andrews 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 and she is currently writing her second. Website: https://stepbysteplistening.com Time-stamped overview: 00:00 Book and audience alignment drives writing motivation05:10 Start with the end in mind writing07:54 Books must be niche for commercial success11:20 Post-COVID trends: remote work, leadership, career, AI tech16:12 Fear of unknown and audience expectations in writing20:19 Get unbiased feedback from unfamiliar peers24:22 Transforming flowery storytelling into concise books: essential26:50 Understand your reader to create impactful content Keywords: writing a book, book idea, business authors, target market, book brainstorming, book concept, book motivation, book research, book feedback, book commercial success, business book planner, business goals, ideal client, book proposal, book marketing, book positioning, book trends, AI tech books, neurodiversity books, book synopsis, book pitch, book target audience
    Show more Show less
    30 mins
  • Building Confidence and Business Through Writing
    Sep 12 2024
    Welcome to another exciting episode of Business Book Bites! I'm your host, Karen Williams, The Book Mentor, and today we have a special guest, Rachel Bennett, author of ‘Shadow Cultures’.

    In this episode, Rachel takes us on a journey through the hidden workplace problems that inspired her book and shares a powerful six-step model to improve company cultures. We'll hear about her unique writing process, an insight into how our writing retreat in Spain helped her, and how her book has become an invaluable tool for her HR consulting business.

    Rachel also shares her disciplined approach to writing, the importance of seeking support and coaching, and how strategic book distribution has attracted valuable business opportunities despite not focusing on book sales.

    Be inspired by Rachel's passion for creating healthier workplace environments and hear a sneak peek of her upcoming second book that delves into the difference between managers and leaders.

    And, if you’d like help with your book, like Rachel, then check out our upcoming events at https://librotas.com/librotasevents. Or get in touch via email at karen@librotas.com.
    Our next Coffee and Connect Café networking event is on Tuesday 1 October at 12pm BST.

    Bio:

    Rachel Bennett is an expert in HR, culture, and transformation, and she’s passionate about helping people be their best selves at work. In her newly published book, Rachel shares her transformative journey and how she came to coin the term "shadow cultures" to describe the hidden problems that can wreak havoc in workplaces.

    Through her extensive experience, Rachel identified these shadow cultures as key workplace issues and developed a six-step model to improve company cultures, one step at a time. Rachel’s mission is to provide organisations with the tools they need to create healthier, more productive workplace environments.

    Website: https://hr-fusion.co.uk
    Socials: https://www.linkedin.com/in/racheljbennett

    Time stamped overview:

    00:00 Research led to starting a book and business.
    04:23 Overcoming impostor syndrome and finding purpose.
    07:48 Being a role model, not about sales.
    10:49 Enthusiastically followed course, gained confidence, joined book retreat.
    14:52 Structured approach helped overcome writing challenges effectively.
    19:25 LinkedIn success boosted confidence and brought business.
    20:50 Learning to own and communicate, manager vs leader.
    26:46 Use "read out loud" tool when writing.
    28:49 Overcame fear, sought admiration, received great support.


    Discussion questions:
    1. How can immersive writing retreats contribute to the creative process and development of a book like "Shadow Cultures"?
    2. What are the impacts of identifying and addressing hidden workplace problems, or "shadow cultures," on organizational health?
    3. What benefits and challenges might businesses face when implementing Rachel's six-step model for improving company culture?
    4. How has Rachel used her book as a business-building tool, and what unique advantages does this provide for entrepreneurs?
    5. In what ways can writing serve both personal growth and professional development for authors like Rachel?
    6. What are the pros and cons of Rachel’s strategic distribution of her book to attract clients over focusing on book sales?
    7. Why is understanding the distinction between managers and leaders crucial for improving company cultures?
    8. How can publishing a book open up new growth opportunities and business ventures for authors?
    9. What techniques can help aspiring writers overcome procrastination and maintain productivity?
    10. How can early marketing and feedback from influential people shape the success of a book?
    Keywords:

    Rachel Bennett, Shadow Cultures, writing retreat Spain, hidden workplace problems, company cultures, HR culture, business consulting, organizational culture, Rachel Bennett author, www.hrfusion.co.uk, LinkedIn Rachel Bennett, book publishing, book coaching, book writing challenges, managers vs leaders, strategic book distribution, niche writing, writing process
    Show more Show less
    31 mins
  • The Transformative Power of Writing a Book
    Sep 5 2024
    Welcome to another insightful episode of Business Book Bites! Today, I am joined by Yvonne Guérineau, the inspiring author of People in Their Element. Yvonne is a passionate personal growth advocate who believes that positive working relationships are crucial to happiness, well-being, and success in the workplace.

    In our conversation, Yvonne opens up about her 20-year journey to writing her first book, the struggles she faced in building interpersonal relationships at work, and the unexpected discoveries that unfolded during her book writing process.

    From rebranding her business mid-book to uncovering hidden confidence, Yvonne shares how her book has transformed her approach to business, earned her valuable feedback from readers, and even opened doors to new opportunities.

    Whether you are a leader looking to improve team dynamics or someone contemplating writing your own book, this episode is filled with valuable insights and practical tips to help you on your journey.

    If you’d like help with your book, then check out our upcoming events at https://librotas.com/librotasevents.

    This includes our free online Coffee and Connect Café networking event on the first Tuesday of the month, and our next Book Breakthrough workshop is on Monday 16 September.

    Bio:

    Yvonne Guérineau is a personal growth enthusiast inside and outside of work and she loves a deep and meaningful conversation. Her speciality is observing and helping others resolve the challenges that arise when working relationships aren’t at their very best. She believes in digging deep, connecting the dots and getting right to the heart of things. She also loves baking, wearing barefoot shoes and having a dip in the sea!

    Website: https://goldencatalyst.co.uk

    Socials:

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

    https://www.instagram.com/yviisme

    Time stamped overview:

    00:00 Writing book fulfilled long-standing bucket list goal.
    06:20 Timing was perfect, boosted confidence, excellent experience.
    07:20 Self-discovery through writing reveals core principles.
    11:05 Finding time to write book becomes priority.
    14:15 Unanticipated interest prompts business growth and change.
    17:35 Increasing one-on-one work, seeking feedback.
    21:08 Start writing now, despite uncertainties and doubts.

    Discussion questions:
    1. What might be some key motivations for writing a book, especially for a business professional?
    2. How did Yvonne's vulnerability in sharing her personal journey impact the effectiveness and relatability of her book?
    3. What might be some benefits of encountering unexpected elements in a creative process?
    4. How did the process of writing her book lead Yvonne to rebrand her business, and how important is brand alignment in business success?
    5. Why is it significant for an author or a coach to find their unique voice, and how might this process be beneficial outside of writing?
    6. What strategies can busy professionals employ to find time for large projects?
    7. How can engaging in a creative project transform one’s self-perception and confidence?
    8. How did feedback from readers shape Yvonne's perception of her book’s impact and future business direction?
    9. Why might iterative processes and revisions be crucial in creative tasks?
    10. What are effective ways authors can integrate their books into their business strategy to enhance their credibility, reach, and business opportunities?
    Keywords:
    personal growth, rewarding working relationships, happiness at work, success at work, business leaders, team performance, relationship building, book publishing journey, book writing process, writing a first book, vulnerability in writing, therapeutic writing, finding voice in writing, rebranding process, branding for authors, leadership development, leadership training, author public speaking, Yvonne guerineau, people in their element
    Show more Show less
    24 mins
  • Unexpected Discoveries During the Book Writing Process
    Aug 29 2024
    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, Karen Williams and Sheryl Andrews explore the unexpected discoveries authors often make during the book writing journey. Writing a book can lead to tremendous personal growth. The writing process forces you to dig deep, heal old wounds, find your authentic voice, and gain newfound clarity and confidence in your own expertise. Sheryl candidly talked about her own journey of writing her first book and the breakthroughs she experienced at writing retreats - learning to set boundaries, manage her time, and put her own needs first in order to write at her best. Karen highlighted how working with a book mentor or writing coach can uncover the invisible parts of what you instinctively know and do.Together, they emphasised how getting feedback during the writing process, while scary, ultimately makes you braver and helps you make a bigger impact. Writing slows things down so you can analyse, process emotions, and gain self-acceptance. Coming up soon is our Book Breakthrough event on Monday 16 September at 2pm – more information can be found at https://librotas.com/bookbreakthrough. You can check out our upcoming events at https://librotas.com/librotasevents/ or get in touch via karen@librotas.com. Key insights Writing a book requires you to commit to yourself, set boundaries, and communicate your needs to others to create the optimal conditions for writing.The book writing process helps make your invisible expertise visible. You start to recognise the value of what you know and can see it in black and white. This boosts confidence in your own wisdom and knowledge.Writing about personal experiences, even in a how-to book, can be cathartic. Book mentors and editors provide objective feedback to help you determine what to include. The writing process allows you to honour your story while gaining perspective on lessons learned. Bio – Karen Williams: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: https://librotas.com Socials: https://www.facebook.com/librotas https://twitter.com/librotas https://www.linkedin.com/in/karenwilliamslibrotas/ https://www.instagram.com/karenwilliamslibrotas https://www.youtube.com/@librotas Bio – Sheryl Andrews 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. Website: https://stepbysteplistening.com Time stamped overview: 00:00 Struggles with work-life balance and writing commitment.04:58 Personal growth through self-discovery and feedback.07:14 Feedback from blogs shaped and improved book.11:57 Finding voice, clients' progress, and social media.14:34 Writing process helped understand, heal, and teach.19:37 Get feedback, release unnecessary parts, gain closure.20:43 Writing process-driven book leads to personal growth. Discussion questions: What unexpected personal growth or self-discovery did Sheryl experience during her writing retreat? How did this impact her ability to write her book?Why is it important for authors to learn how to set boundaries and communicate their needs to others during the writing process?How can receiving feedback while writing a book help authors gain confidence and make a deeper impact on their readers?In what ways can working with a coach or mentor help authors uncover their expertise and find their voice?How did Karen's client's writing voice evolve over the course of writing her book? What factors may contribute to an author's voice changing over time?What is the difference between writing from a "healed scar" versus an "open wound," and why is this distinction important for authors exploring personal experiences?How can the process of writing about traumatic experiences be cathartic for authors, and what strategies can they use to navigate the emotional challenges?In what ways can writing a book lead to personal growth, even for authors who are not writing memoir-style or personal stories?How can gathering evidence and deepening knowledge while writing a "how-to" book contribute to an author's...
    Show more Show less
    25 mins