The Book Mentor Podcast Podcast By Karen Williams cover art

The Book Mentor Podcast

The Book Mentor Podcast

By: Karen Williams
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In The Book Mentor Podcast (forrmerly Business Book Bites) we unlock the secrets behind game-changing business books, diving into the minds of influential authors and experts.

Whether you're writing your first book or looking to amplify your message, each episode provides insights, strategies, and inspiration to help you craft an authority-building book.
  • Series 5: Discover what it takes to write a book that changes everything - insights from authors and experts who want to make a difference.
  • Series 4: Explore publishing and marketing with conversations, inspiration, and top tips to maximise your book’s impact.
  • Series 3: Tackle hot topics in book writing with expert insights and actionable advice from published authors.
  • Series 2: Go behind the scenes with successful business authors and uncover the strategies that got them published.
  • Series 1: Meet the marketing experts from Book Marketing Made Simple and learn how to leverage your book for business growth.
You can find out more about our events at www.librotas.com/librotasevents including our monthly Coffee and Connect Café networking event and writing retreat in Spain.

Get your copy of Karen's latest book at www.bookmarketingmadesimple.com.

Connect with Karen

Website: http://www.librotas.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/librotas
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/karenwilliamslibrotas
X (Twitter): https://twitter.com/librotas
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/karenwilliamslibrotas
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@librotasKaren Williams - Librotas Ltd Art Economics Leadership Literary History & Criticism Management & Leadership
Episodes
  • The Realities of Writing a Business Book (Special Episode)

    The Realities of Writing a Business Book (Special Episode)
    Sep 28 2026
    The Book Mentor Podcast Show Notes The Realities of Writing a Business BookSpecial episode – September 2026You can watch the video version of this podcast at https://youtu.be/igTCFydDkkgHosts: Karen Williams and Sheryl AndrewsWelcome to a special edition of The Book Mentor Podcast. This was kindly hosted and recorded by Andy Goode at the Solent Video podcast studio in Southampton. In this episode, Karen Williams, The Book Mentor, sits down with Sheryl Andrews of Step by Step Listening for an honest and insightful conversation about the realities of writing a business book. With both hosts currently deep in their own book-writing journeys, they reflect on the highs and lows, shifting motivations, and the evolving landscape of publishing in today’s world.They discuss why some books take years to come to fruition, the challenges of balancing writing with business and personal life, and the importance of finding your unique voice and "why" as an author. They share stories about managing inner critics, the pressure of perfecting your message, and gaining real-time feedback from clients and podcast episodes alike. Plus, they dive into how the writing process can be transformed by working alongside clients and embracing the unpredictability of life.Whether you’re an aspiring author or a seasoned business leader, this episode offers inspiration and practical wisdom for anyone curious about what it really takes to write and publish a book that makes an impact. 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 event, 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.You can find out more about all our upcoming events and programmes (including our Smart Author Writing Sprint) at https://www.librotas.com/librotasevents. Or contact Karen Williams to find out how she can help you via www.librotas.com. Key insightsGive Yourself Permission for the Journey: Book writing is rarely linear. Sometimes ideas take years to mature, and the story may need time and real-world experience to fully develop before it’s ready to share.Writing In Real Time Provides Validation: Working alongside clients and running writing sprints provided invaluable real-time feedback, helping ensure that what lands on the page truly resonates with readers and serves their needs.Step Into Your Authority: The world of publishing is shifting rapidly with AI and changing self-publishing landscapes. Clarifying your “why” for writing empowers you to navigate these changes and write a book that matters—to you, your business, and your readers.Bio – Karen WilliamsKaren 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://x.com/librotashttps://www.linkedin.com/in/karenwilliamslibrotas/ https://www.instagram.com/karenwilliamslibrotas https://www.youtube.com/@librotas Bio – Sheryl AndrewsSheryl 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 Find the details of the Solent Video podcast studio at https://www.hampshiregreenscreen.co.uk/solent-video-podcast-studio Time-stamped overview:00:00 Discussing book ideas during pandemic03:43 Discussing the motivation for writing07:11 The evolving self-publishing landscape10:27 Testing and refining a book idea15:12 Journey to Writing the Book19:16 Writing and publishing challenges20:43 Realizing the book lacked emotion23:27 Reflecting on past writing decisions26:57 Improving conversational purposeKeywords: writing journey, book writing process, self-publishing, book marketing, Smart Author System, book launches, memoir writing, how-to books, story-based books, writing sprints, business books, strategic writing, resourceful conversations, time management for authors, publishing industry changes, author credibility, coaching authors, book mentoring
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    29 mins
  • There Is No Safe Way to Be Bold with Zana Goic Petricevic [S5 E17]

    There Is No Safe Way to Be Bold with Zana Goic Petricevic [S5 E17]
    Mar 12 2026
    Today, host Karen Williams is joined by the inspiring Zana Goic Petricevic, bestselling author, leadership transformation expert, and global speaker. Zana’s journey began in February 2020 when she boldly decided to write her first book—just as the world was on the brink of the pandemic. Instead of playing it safe, Zana leaned into the uncertainty, publishing Bold Reinvented and later Leading on the Edge, each work not only transforming her business but also her own life and worldview. In this episode, Karen and Zana dive deep into how writing and publishing can change who we are, why embracing risk is crucial for true impact, and the power of bold storytelling in leadership and authorship. If you’re wondering why so many people with extraordinary potential hold back from making a real impact—or how you can find and amplify your own voice as an author—this conversation is full of wisdom, honest vulnerability, and practical tips to help you step into your own boldness. You can listen to our earlier episode (S2, Ep 12) via www.librotas.com/podcast or https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-power-of-personal-and-professional-growth/id1705020493?i=1000655750145. ** 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 retreat 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 Embrace Vulnerability: True impact comes when you’re willing to take risks and share your authentic story—even (and especially) when it feels uncomfortable. As Zana says, "There’s no safe way to take bold steps." Invest in Support: Don’t go it alone. A mentor can not only structure your story but push you past your doubts, helping you evolve into the author (and leader) you’re meant to be. Envision Your Future Self: Imagine how your life and voice will grow post-publication. Let that future pull you forward, guiding the bold moves you make in your writing and your leadership. Bio Zana Goic Petricevic is a leadership transformation expert, bold leadership coach for C-suite leaders, speaker and best-selling author of Bold Reinvented and Leading on the Edge, helping organisations to embrace change, adopt a bold mindset and take decisive risks to thrive. Zana’s mission is to empower leaders to lead on the edge, pushing the boundaries of what’s possible and creating impactful change. With a university degree in languages and a master’s degree in economics, Zana transitioned from a dynamic career in corporate communications and marketing within the oil and gas and pharmaceutical industries to focus on leadership development. She now inspires organisations across the globe with her compelling talks and cutting-edge leadership programmes. As the founder of Bold Leadership Culture, a boutique leadership development consultancy based in Croatia and the UK with a global presence across the EU, USA and APAC, Zana is a recognised expert in coaching and leadership development. Her SOUL Framework®, featured in Bold Reinvented, forms the foundation of her company’s global offerings, transforming how leaders engage with courage, consciousness and conviction. Zana has coached and trained hundreds of leaders, partnering with global giants in diverse industries, including big tech, banking, pharmaceuticals, the Big Four, engineering and more. Her impressive client list includes PwC, Capgemini, UniCredit Bank, TikTok, Amazon, Sandoz and EU institutions, among others. Living in Zagreb, Croatia, with her husband and son, Zana travels the world pursuing her passion – transforming leadership on a global scale. Website: www.boldleadership-culture.com Book link: https://a.co/d/095auXWc and https://a.co/d/0iW6oXZY Socials: https://www.linkedin.com/in/zanagoicpetricevic Time stamped overview: 00:00 Books Open Doors to Connections04:26 Writing Books and Bold Leadership08:59 Bold Writing Requires Vulnerability12:32 Risks of Sharing Ideas16:15 Prioritizing Reader Engagement in Books17:57 Work with a Book Mentor20:44 Embracing Growth and Purpose Keywords: leadership transformation, book writing journey, Bold Reinvented, Leading on the Edge, author vulnerability, business transformation, global leadership, coaching, training business, book publishing, personal growth, identity evolution, thought leadership, organizational change, cultural diversity, storytelling, book mentoring, boldness, risk-taking, self-doubt, authenticity, vision ...
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    23 mins
  • Start With What You Know with Akasha Lonsdale [S5 E16]

    Start With What You Know with Akasha Lonsdale [S5 E16]
    Mar 5 2026
    In this episode, host Karen Williams is joined by Akasha Lonsdale. Akasha shares her journey across three books: from a self-published debut sparked by her psychotherapy clients’ requests, to a commissioned guide on religious etiquette, and most recently, Mindful Life Wisdom for Women 50+—a book born out of adversity and a belief that every problem carries a gift. Together, they explore practical strategies for writers, including mind mapping, Post-it notes, and the importance of authentic voice. Akasha opens up about her creative process, the impact her books have had, and the ripple effect of helping readers find wisdom in everyday life. Whether you’re an aspiring author or simply seeking inspiration, this heartfelt conversation is packed with bite-sized tips and real-world insights designed to help you move forward on your own writing journey. ** 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 retreat 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 Mind Mapping & Chunking Are Game-Changers: Akasha Lonsdale shared her process of using mind maps and Post-it notes to organize her thoughts and shape her books. Breaking down big ideas into bite-sized chunks makes writing (and reading!) easier and more enjoyable. Write What You Know—Authenticity Matters: Both Karen Williams and Akasha Lonsdale emphasized writing from your own experience, knowledge, and voice. Authenticity resonates with readers and builds credibility.Capture Inspiration in the Moment: Don’t let great ideas slip away! Akasha Lonsdale recommends recording thoughts—whether it’s a notebook, phone, or voice note—as soon as inspiration strikes, even if you’re in a supermarket or out for a walk. Bio Akasha is passionate about writing, personal development, spiritual growth, and the inside-out change needed to live a grounded, vibrant, authentic life. Her mentoring blends a background in psychotherapy, emotional intelligence, and interfaith ministry; always with honesty, heart, and a touch of humour. Website: https://akashalonsdale.com Book link: mybook.to/mindful-life-wisdom Socials: www.facebook.com/AkashaLonsdalePsychoSpiritualLifeMentor www.linkedin.com/in/akashalonsdaledeighton www.instagram.com/akasha.lonsdale.mentoring www.youtube.com/@AkashaLonsdale-Deighton Time stamped overview: 00:00 Book Launch Journey and Impact05:22 Guide to Religious Etiquette07:12 Unexpected Falls and Recovery12:27 A to Z Book Structure13:46 Mind Maps and Post-it Planning16:36 Mind Mapping and Writing Tools22:47 Respect Your Creative Rhythm24:14 Book Exclusively on Amazon 28:35 Capture Ideas Instantly Keywords: book writing, self-publishing, personal development, spiritual growth, interfaith ministry, author journey, book structure, mind mapping, Post-it notes for writing, writing strategies, authentic writing voice, book promotion, media appearances, radio interviews, book mentoring, writing tips, memoir writing, A to Z book structure, bite-sized writing, social media marketing for authors, writing habits, mindful living, meditative writing, writing routines, writing blocks
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    31 mins
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