Episodes

  • Turning a Book into a Business with Claudia D. Thompson [S5 E2]

    Turning a Book into a Business with Claudia D. Thompson [S5 E2]
    Nov 13 2025
    In today’s episode, host Karen Williams sits down with Claudia D. Thompson, a leadership consultant, team strategist, and author of Take Charge: The BOSS method© for entrepreneurs who never planned to be leaders. With over twenty years of experience and a passion for building workplaces where people actually want to stay and grow, Claudia shares insights into her personal journey of writing her first book, how it started as a way to process her own experiences with difficult bosses, and ultimately evolved into a practical guide for business owners who may not have planned to become leaders. Tune in to hear Claudia open up about the therapeutic power of writing, the process and daily discipline that got her from blank page to published author in just five months, and how writing a book became the foundation for her signature BOSS Method and the business she runs today. If you've ever wondered what it really takes to write a business book, or how authors use their stories to build authority and impact, you’ll want to stick around for Claudia’s honest advice, motivating stories, and practical tips for new writers and entrepreneurs alike! ** Upcoming Events ** 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 online networking events, the Coffee and Connect Café, held on the first Tuesday of each month. You’ll get learning, ideas, and the chance to connect with other authors. We also run an annual writing retreat and our next event in Spain is from 25 April to 2 May 2026. Join us for a week in the sun writing your book! You can find out more about all our upcoming events at https://www.librotas.com/librotasevents. Or contact Karen Williams to find out how she can help you via www.librotas.com. Key Takeaways 1. Your story matters more than you think. Even if your book isn’t “about you”, weaving your experiences in builds credibility, relatability, and makes your message resonate. (It also might help you heal some old wounds!) 2. Structure and discipline beat inspiration. I broke the writing down to just 550 words/day – sometimes forcing it, sometimes deleting half – but that simple habit stacked up to a finished book (in just five months!). 3. A book can be the foundation for your business. Developing my signature BOSS Method framework through writing is now the bedrock of my work with clients. Clarity for me, and clarity for everyone I serve! Bio Claudia D. Thompson is a leadership consultant and team strategist who helps business owners build workplaces where people want to stay and grow. With a business degree and two decades of experience across industries –from fashion to software – she’s seen first-hand the struggles of disengaged teams and overwhelmed leaders. Now she helps business owners take charge, simplify leadership and build better workplaces – without the fluff, burnout or corporate jargon. Website: www.thebusinessfabrik.com Book link: https://shop.ingramspark.com/b/084?params=F2fiebZFF1er0Iy6dPcuVVPRSc4wPWIQLKQIPGBfhLG Socials: www.linkedin.com/in/claudiadthompson www.instagram.com/claudiadthompson Time stamped overview: 00:00 Choosing the Right Boss04:09 Learning to Lead Through Writing07:39 Morning Creativity Routine12:23 Blog vs. Book: Depth Matters15:06 Deciding Personal Story Inclusion17:43 Creative Project Reflections19:56 Targeted Book Writing Insights26:30 Book as Business Catalyst27:42 Just Do It: Embrace the Process Keywords: leadership consultant, team strategist, workplace culture, employee engagement, business book writing, leadership development, team management, book writing journey, author journey, book publishing, business growth, workplace retention, burnout prevention, corporate jargon, boss method, business mentorship, signature framework, productivity tips, book launch, writing discipline, book marketing, LinkedIn networking, book cover design, business clarity, target audience, personal branding, business storytelling
    Show More Show Less
    28 mins
  • The Real Reasons Why Writing a Book Is a Game Changer [S5 E1]

    The Real Reasons Why Writing a Book Is a Game Changer [S5 E1]
    Nov 6 2025
    Hosts: Karen Williams and Sheryl AndrewsWelcome to a brand new series of the Business Book Bites podcast! In this episode, Karen Williams and Sheryl Andrews kick off Series 5 with an inspiring conversation that shifts the lens from the nuts and bolts of writing, publishing, and marketing a book to something even more powerful – the impact a business book can make. Drawing from her own journey as an author, Karen shares how her upcoming book encapsulates why a book should be more than just a collection of words. It should be life-changing for its author, readers, and business.Joined by fellow author and friend Sheryl Andrews, the two dive deep into the hidden transformations that come with writing a book: from finding courage and clarity, to stepping into your authority, to setting new boundaries and discovering unexpected opportunities.Whether you’re curious about how the writing process can shape your personal growth, or you want practical insight into what happens after publication, this conversation is packed with stories from Karen’s 10 (yes, 10!) books and reflections on the “invisible stuff” that happens along the way.If you’re thinking about writing a book – or wondering what’s possible when you do – this episode is the perfect motivator.** Upcoming Events ** 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 online networking events, the Coffee and Connect Café, held on the first Tuesday of each month. You’ll get learning, ideas, and the chance to connect with other authors. We also run an annual writing retreat and our next event in Spain is from 25 April to 2 May 2026. Join us for a week in the sun writing your book! You can find out more about all our upcoming events at https://www.librotas.com/librotasevents. Or contact Karen Williams to find out how she can help you via www.librotas.com. Key insights The Impact Goes Deeper Than You Think: Writing a book doesn’t just build your credibility or bring in more clients. It shifts your own self-perception, boosts courage, and often leads to unexpected growth – both personally and professionally. Stepping Into New Identity is Powerful (and Scary!): Embracing your status as an “author” can feel bold and daunting, but the process of writing helps clarify your voice, refine your expertise, and set stronger boundaries. Sometimes the biggest leap is simply saying, “I am a writer.” Opportunities Emerge When You Start Sharing: Just telling people about your book-in-progress changes how others see you – and opens doors you never saw coming. Networking, speaking opportunities, collaborations… much of this starts before the book even launches! 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/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 and she is currently writing her second. Website: https://stepbysteplistening.com Time-stamped overview: 00:00 Writing Enhances Communication Clarity05:01 Writing Success Through Personal Boundaries07:00 Writing's Impact on Self and Others09:54 Feedback and Insights Through Engagement14:48 Embracing Unexpected Opportunities17:49 Unexpected Evolution Through Writing21:17 Accidental Book Mentor Journey23:35 Experimental Book Writing Approaches27:01 Storytelling's Impact in Business31:12 Book as Team Member Resource36:22 Bite-Sized Podcast and Book Journey36:58 Episode Conclusion Keywords: writing a book, book impact, author authority, credibility building book, book marketing, book publishing process, imposter syndrome, book planning, inner critic, writing retreats, writing habits, memoir writing, business growth through books, book title selection, author mindset, collaboration in writing, book content clarity, pre-launch book marketing, ...
    Show More Show Less
    34 mins
  • The New Rules of Writing a Business Book in 2025 and Beyond [S4 E12]

    The New Rules of Writing a Business Book in 2025 and Beyond [S4 E12]
    May 1 2025
    In this final episode of Series Four, Karen Williams and Sheryl Andrews dive deep into "The New Rules of Writing a Business Book." After 16 years in the business book world, Karen shares how publishing, writing, and book marketing have radically transformed - from the rise of self-publishing and the power of storytelling, to the surge in competition and the ever-shifting attention economy. Karen and Sheryl reflect on the challenges authors face today, from finding your unique hook to distilling your expertise into an engaging, succinct read. They discuss the balance between personal storytelling and business value, the importance of market research, and the pivotal role of professional editing. Plus, they reveal how to leverage technology, build your author platform, and market your book in a way that truly connects with your readers. Whether you’re wrestling with imposter syndrome, struggling to choose your book’s focus, or wondering how to make self-publishing work for you, this episode is packed with insight and encouragement. Tune in as Karen and Sheryl help you future-proof your business book for 2025 and beyond, and remind you that behind every great book is a supportive community - and a bit of messy, creative magic. ** Check Out Our Events ** 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 held on the first Tuesday of each month. Our next event is on Tuesday 3 June where we will be diving into marketing strategies. You can find out more about this and our other upcoming events at https://www.librotas.com/librotasevents. Or contact Karen Williams via www.librotas.com. Key insights Stand Out By Storytelling: The flood of new business books means you have to stand out. It’s no longer enough to share information—your unique story, clear message, and the value you offer are what connect you with readers. Publishing is More Accessible, But Professionalism Counts: With print-on-demand and self-publishing tools, it’s easier than ever to get your book out there. BUT, quality editing, design, and a clear narrative flow are critical—don’t skip the professional touches. Marketing is Author-Led (& Evergreen): Whether traditionally published or going solo, you’re responsible for building your platform and audience. Bring people along on your writing journey, leverage social media, and think beyond just the launch—keep your book in the conversation. 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 New Rules for Business Books04:49 Fast-Paced Information Consumption06:17 Personal Narratives Driving Career Paths10:14 Clarity of Purpose in Writing15:31 Collaborative Growth Through Feedback19:23 Shift from Traditional to Self-Publishing22:30 Signposting Time Shifts in Stories26:10 Author-Led Marketing Reality29:16 Focus on Sharing the Journey32:56 Building Business Through Book Writing36:38 The Importance of Team Support37:33 Business Book Bites Series End Keywords: Writing a business book, Book publishing changes, book marketing, authority building, personal branding, author journey, imposter syndrome, storytelling, book clarity, book audience targeting, book hook, self-publishing, traditional publishing, print on demand, audiobooks, Amazon bestseller, book planning, professional book editing, book coaching, book mentor, librotas, marketing strategy, leveraging connections, email marketing, creating online events, niching your book, business ecosystem, book funnels, writing a book, thought leadership
    Show More Show Less
    38 mins
  • How to Transform Your Book Into a Successful Business Tool [S4 E11]

    How to Transform Your Book Into a Successful Business Tool [S4 E11]
    Apr 24 2025
    Welcome back to another episode of Business Book Bites! Karen Williams and Sheryl Andrews are diving deeper into the world of book marketing, particularly focusing on strategies to keep your book alive beyond its launch. We explore the importance of maintaining momentum after publishing your book, regardless of the publishing route you chose. We discuss the value of creating evergreen content and insights on how your book can serve as a powerful business tool, whether through workshops, speaking opportunities, or generating continuous reviews and referrals. Plus, we discuss the concept of leveraging your book's content for various purposes, including using it for blogs, webinars, and podcasts to extend its reach and impact. Discover innovative ways to collaborate, repurpose, and maintain visibility in the marketplace. You can get your copy of Book Marketing Made Simple on Amazon or all good book retailers. ** Check Out Our Events ** 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 held on the first Tuesday of each month. Our next event is on Tuesday 3 June where we will be diving into maximising your book promotion online - how to say “buy my book” without saying “buy my book”! I am also running the Book Launch Blueprint workshop on Monday 30 June where I take you step by step through the process of becoming an Amazon bestseller - and giving you access to all the swipe files, emails, social media templates to be successful. You can find out more about all our events at https://www.librotas.com/librotasevents. Or contact Karen Williams via www.librotas.com. Key insights Create Evergreen Marketing Strategies: Maintain visibility and reach new readers by repurposing your book content into evergreen marketing materials. Consider turning chapters into blogs, webinars, or even podcasts that can be accessed anytime. Leverage Your Book as a Business Tool: Use your book in speaking engagements, workshops, and as part of client offerings. Opportunities like bulk sales during events can significantly boost your book's reach. Continuous Reviews and Referrals: Encourage ongoing reviews on platforms like Amazon and Goodreads. These act as powerful social proof, making it easier for new readers to discover and trust your work. 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/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 and she is currently writing her second. Website: https://stepbysteplistening.com Time-stamped overview: 00:00 Evergreen Products & Marketing Strategy05:46 Post-Launch Book Marketing Strategies08:31 Subtle Book Promotion Strategies10:37 Boosting Book Recommendations & Reviews13:01 Networking Strategies for Book Launches16:29 Expanding Book Ideas Into Content20:25 Book Collaboration and Expansion24:19 Guidance Through Book Publishing Process26:09 Promote Your Book Confidently Keywords: Book marketing, evergreen content, book launch, book as a business tool, repurposing content, guest blogging, post-launch book marketing strategies, book sales, target audience, networking, book reviews, social proof, book PR and media, podcast interviews, business credibility, content creation, course creation, speaking opportunities, niche audience, book publication, marketing strategy, business growth, book PR,
    Show More Show Less
    26 mins
  • How to Launch a Book that Gets Seen (and Shared) [S4 E10]

    How to Launch a Book that Gets Seen (and Shared) [S4 E10]
    Apr 17 2025
    In today's episode of the Business Book Bites podcast, Karen Williams, The Book Mentor, along with Sheryl Andrews dive deep into the world of book marketing, especially focusing on the crucial period around a book launch. They share insights on maximizing your book's visibility and sales, with strategies that include optimizing discoverability on Amazon, securing PR, and lining up the right launch support. Learn from their experiences, both personal and with clients, as they discuss building a robust pre-launch momentum and keeping it alive well beyond publication day. Plus, they offer valuable tips on securing endorsements, asking for help, and celebrating your book's launch in style. Whether you’re a seasoned author or just starting out, this episode is packed with advice and encouragement to ensure your book reaches its full potential. You can get your copy of Book Marketing Made Simple on Amazon or all good book retailers. ** Check Out Our Events ** 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 held on the first Tuesday of each month. Our next event is on Tuesday 3 June where we will be diving into maximising your book promotion online - how to say “buy my book” without saying “buy my book”! I am also running the Book Launch Blueprint workshop on Monday 30 June where I take you step by step through the process of becoming an Amazon bestseller - and giving you access to all the swipe files, emails, social media templates to be successful. You can find out more about all our events at https://www.librotas.com/librotasevents. Or contact Karen Williams via www.librotas.com. Key insights Visibility and Support: Building a network and asking for help is crucial. Your friends, family, colleagues, and connections can make a significant impact when it comes to sharing your book’s launch. Discoverability Optimization: Make sure your book is easily found online by focusing on the right categories, keywords, and metadata. A well-crafted title and subtitle, along with a strategic description, can improve your book’s searchability. Celebration and Execution: The launch is also a celebration of your hard work. Whether it’s a full-blown launch party or a quiet toast, marking the occasion keeps the excitement alive and engages your community. 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 Book Launch Success Strategies05:10 Book Promotion & Network Strategy06:55 Leveraging Small Networks Effectively12:48 Securing Book Endorsements and Reviews14:56 Expanding Book Reach via Influencers18:19 Seek Help and Delegate Tasks22:25 Measuring Success in Launches24:05 Creative Book Launch Strategies26:44 Celebrate Your Writing Milestones Keywords: book launch, book sales, book publication, book PR, book launch support, book design, Amazon launch, amazon bestselling launch, book marketing, street team, engaging influencers, book endorsements, PR strategy, book keywords, book categories, podcast interviews, book metadata, book launch event, becoming a bestseller, book launch party, amazon bestseller, librotas, book marketing made simple
    Show More Show Less
    27 mins
  • Building A Buzz – Pre-Launch Book Marketing Strategies [S4 E9]

    Building A Buzz – Pre-Launch Book Marketing Strategies [S4 E9]
    Apr 10 2025
    Many authors make the mistake of starting their marketing efforts too late, missing key opportunities to build momentum. In this episode of the Business Book Bites podcast, Sheryl Andrews and Karen Williams dive into the essential strategies for preparing for a successful launch. We break down what you need to do well in advance to position your book for success and grow an engaged audience, while avoiding common pre-launch pitfalls. We're talking about the importance of engaging with your audience early to ensure you write the right book for your business and how building anticipation can make all the difference. So tune in as we explore the journey from idea to publication and how to make your book a key part of your broader business ecosystem. 👉 If you’ve not yet got a copy of Book Marketing Made Simple, mentioned in this episode, you can find it on Amazon and all good book retailers. ** Check Out Our Events ** 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 held on the first Tuesday of each month. Our next event is on Tuesday 3 June where we will be diving into an important area of marketing and selling your book. You can find out more about this and our other upcoming events at https://www.librotas.com/librotasevents. Or contact Karen Williams via www.librotas.com. Key insights Engage Early: Start building momentum months before your launch. Engage your audience early to ensure you’re writing the right book for your business and avoid missing opportunities. Conversation is key! Build Anticipation: Share your author journey as well as your book content. People are naturally curious and want to follow the highs, lows, and learnings. Don't underestimate the power of sharing your process. Plan, Plan, Plan: Have a pre-launch strategy in place. Break down tasks weekly to make them manageable and ensure you're ready to deal with any inner critic that might pop up. 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 www.bookmarketingmadesimple.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 Overcoming Publishing Doubts04:51 "Bravery in Writing and Publishing"09:28 Aligning Business Goals and Messaging13:13 Effective Book Marketing Strategies15:07 CRM and Newsletter Strategies18:27 Storytelling Key to Content Creation20:52 Engaging Readers in Writing Journey23:58 Effective Book Marketing Strategies Keywords: Successful book launch, writing process, author confidence, book marketing strategy, nook positioning, book promotion, email marketing, social media marketing, business list building, business ecosystem, crowdfunding, community building, business storytelling, pre-launch book marketing, personal brand, writing clarity, book themes, content repurposing, author journey, podcast book marketing, book marketing made simple
    Show More Show Less
    26 mins
  • Building Author Platforms and Influencer Outreach with Nicky Blewitt [S4 E8]

    Building Author Platforms and Influencer Outreach with Nicky Blewitt [S4 E8]
    Apr 3 2025
    Welcome to a new episode of Business Book Bites! Today, Karen Williams, The Book Mentor, is joined by Nicky Blewitt—a book marketer, self-published author, and expert in helping writers build platforms that actually sell books.

    Nicky’s journey from gardener to author and marketing strategist is proof that smart marketing, not big budgets, makes the difference. With over 20 books published and years of experience navigating the indie publishing world, he’s discovered what really works when it comes to building an author platform that attracts readers and grows your influence.

    In this episode, we dive into the essentials of building a strong author platform, from branding and networking to creating a lead magnet that actually converts. We also explore the power of influencers—how they can help you reach more readers, and why they aren’t just for fiction authors.
    We discuss practical, low-cost strategies for book marketing, avoiding common pitfalls, and making the most of your time and resources—so you can focus on what matters most: writing books and getting them into the hands of the right readers.

    If book marketing feels overwhelming, this conversation will give you a clearer, more focused approach to growing your audience and selling more books.

    ** Check Out Our Upcoming Events **

    Fancy being inspired to write your book? You can check out all our upcoming events via our website, including our Book Launch Blueprint workshop on Monday 30 June, where you can learn the exact steps you need to follow to launch an Amazon bestselling book.

    We run a monthly online networking event (although we are taking a break in May while we run our writing retreat in Spain) and will be back online on Tuesday 3 June for the Coffee and Connect Café, 12-1pm UK time: www.librotas.com/librotasevents.

    Key Takeaways

    Consistent Branding is Crucial: Whether it's your website or social media profiles, ensure that your branding is cohesive and genre-appropriate to make a memorable impression on readers.

    Discoverability through Networking: Engage with other authors in your genre to share knowledge and run joint promotions. It's a valuable way to tap into new audiences and gain support in the indie author community.

    Influencer Relationships Matter: Reach out to influencers with genuine engagement, offering value first before asking for anything in return. Building solid relationships can increase your book's visibility significantly.

    Bio Nicky has been writing fiction and non-fiction for the last 10 years. He is a big fan of self-publishing and the freedom it gives writers. He has been an active book marketer for the last five years, disappearing down many rabbit holes during that time. Luckily he emerged knowing what works and what doesn't!

    Website: https://www.thebookmarketer.pro

    Socials: https://www.instagram.com/the_book_marketer/

    Time stamped overview:

    00:00 From Gardener to Self-Published Author
    06:09 Networking and Promotion Strategies
    07:49 Centralized Content Strategy Essentials
    11:43 Influencer Platforms: Influency & Intellifluence
    15:11 Effective Series Writing Essentials
    18:37 Trust Individuals: Personalize Marketing Approach
    20:54 Targeting Ideal Influencers Effectively 26:25 Empowering Authors for Independence
    27:19 "Building Relationships with Influencers"
    32:38 Influencer Promotion Cost-Sharing Strategy

    Keywords: self-publishing, book marketing, author platform, book branding, email list, lead magnet, social media, influencer marketing, book promotion, business networking, fiction authors, nonfiction authors, creative writing, amazon ad campaigns, reader engagement, beta readers, digital assets, book cover design, book launch, email marketing, book genre targeting, amazon keyword research, author outreach, influencer marketing, amazon author central, becoming a bestselling author
    Show More Show Less
    33 mins
  • Exploring the Power of AI in Writing with Greg McQueen [S4 E7]

    Exploring the Power of AI in Writing with Greg McQueen [S4 E7]
    Mar 27 2025
    Welcome to a new episode of the Business Book Bites podcast! Today, Karen Williams, The Book Mentor, is joined by Greg McQueen, a former TV writer turned ghostwriter and AI writing specialist.

    Greg brings a unique perspective to writing, blending decades of storytelling expertise with a deep curiosity for AI and technology. With a background shaped by his successful writer father—who worked on the renowned series The Bill—Greg grew up immersed in the world of television writing. His career has since evolved from screenwriting to ghostwriting nonfiction, where he now helps professionals turn their expertise into impactful books.

    In this conversation, we dive into Greg’s journey from photography to writing, how AI has transformed his workflow, and why he sees AI as “Photoshop for writers.”

    We explore tools like ChatGPT, Claude, and Perplexity, discuss the practicalities of using AI for research and structuring books, and unpack the risks of emerging AI tools. Whether you’re new to AI or already experimenting with it, this episode is packed with insights to help you make the most of these evolving technologies in your writing process.

    ** Check Out Our Upcoming Events **

    Fancy being inspired to write your book? Join our next Coffee and Connect Café networking event. It’s on the first Tuesday of each month, from 12-1pm UK time. Our next session on Tuesday 1st April gives you the opportunity to ask Karen any question you like about the book-writing process.

    Also coming up soon is our Book Kick-Start workshop and Writing Retreat in Spain.

    You can check out all our events here: www.librotas.com/librotasevents.

    Key Takeaways

    Leverage AI Tools: Greg views AI as "Photoshop for writers", highlighting how tools like ChatGPT and Claude can enhance the writing process by improving efficiency while maintaining human authenticity.

    AI in Research & Writing: Discover how AI can assist in keeping track of background materials, offering draft suggestions, and ensuring a cohesive writing process by continually referencing stored project data.

    Adopt AI for Future Readiness: As Greg suggests, AI tools might soon become industry standards, much like Photoshop in photography. Now's the perfect time to explore and embrace these technologies to avoid falling behind.

    Bio

    Greg McQueen, a former TV writer (including "Life Force" with Damian Lewis), now specializes in ghostwriting nonfiction and AI writing. He helps professionals transform their expertise into engaging books and training materials, combining storytelling expertise with teaching experience to make complex topics accessible while preserving their impact.

    Website: www.signaltowords.com

    Socials: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gregmcqueen-ghostwriter/

    Time stamped overview:

    00:00 Writer's Legacy in Creative Upbringing
    05:29 "Haiti Relief Anthology Initiative"
    08:15 Exploring AI Evolution and Impact
    13:01 AI-Assisted Ghostwriting Benefits
    15:36 "Enhancing AI with Project Preloads"
    17:44 Preloading Instructions for Writing Projects
    21:14 Book Comparison Using ChatGPT
    27:15 Navigating AI in Writing
    30:25 AI Data Usage Misunderstanding
    33:10 Embrace Evolving Tech in Writing

    Keywords: AI writing, ghostwriting, storytelling expertise, nonfiction writing, TV writer, writing tools, book creation, writing profession, TV writing career, publishing process, book proposal, earthquake Haiti, anthology short stories, AI tools, ChatGPT, Claude AI, writing research, DeepSeek AI, Perplexity AI, AI privacy, AI-generated content, nonfiction writing, AI for writers, Greg McQueen, Karen Williams Book Mentor
    Show More Show Less
    31 mins