Beyond the Bestseller

What if a single book could unlock the door to 54 national TV interviews, 6 PR industry awards, and millions of dollars in revenue?

As business owners, authors, and thought leaders, we often spend months or years pouring our hearts into a book, only to publish it and wonder, "What next?" We dream of hitting the bestseller list or landing big media features, but the truth is, a book isn't just a product—it's your ultimate business card and lead generator.

That is until PR expert Liz Kelly showed us how to uncover the "wow story" hidden inside our message. In this episode of Beyond the Bestseller, Liz breaks down her exact framework for turning a book into a client-attracting machine, tying your core message to timely news hooks, and leveraging media features to build a thriving business. Click play to learn how you can amplify your story and turn your book into your biggest lead generator!

• Award-Winning Publicity on Amazon: https://amzn.to/4bfTjEw
• Goody PR Website: https://goodypr.com
• Award-Winning Publicity Website: https://awardwinningpublicity.com
• Liz Kelly's Instagram: Instagram

If this episode resonated with you or someone you know, don't forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share it with those who might need to hear Liz Kelly's story. For more resources to help you write and market your book, visit kellyschuknecht.com.

What if the rules you are following in your relationships and business aren't actually yours? What if the hidden "operating system" you built as a child is silently sabotaging your happiness, confidence, and authentic voice as an adult?

As entrepreneurs and creators, we spend so much time polishing our professional personas. But behind the scenes, many of us are still terrified of getting in trouble, taking big risks, or putting our authentic work out into the world. On today’s episode of Beyond the Bestseller, repeat guest Dr. Anne Dranitsaris—author of Are Your Relationship Rules Ruining Your Happiness?—joins me to unpack how childhood adaptations shape our adult lives and relationships.

We talk about moving past the fear of rejection, learning to stabilize our own self-esteem, and even how using AI can free up your time so you can focus entirely on your unique ability instead of getting bogged down in marketing! Click play to find out how you can stop trying to fix yourself and start stepping into your authentic power.

• • Dr. Anne Dranitsaris Website & Free Ebook: https://www.andranitsaris.com
  • This is a link to my free guide, The 16 Capacities of the Authentic Self. https://annedranitsaris.com/free-guides-books/16-capacities-of-the-authentic-self/
  • Buy Dr. Anne Dranitsaris's Book on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CX2G3Y44 

 

If this episode resonated with you or someone you know, don't forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share it with those who might need to hear Dr. Anne Dranitsaris's story. For more resources to help you write and market your book, visit kellyschuknecht.com.

What if getting the raise, promotion, or recognition you deserve wasn’t about being the loudest person in the room, but about learning how to strategically articulate your worth?

As someone who spent nearly two decades in corporate leadership, I know firsthand how easy it is to fall into the trap of letting others lead your career path. So many of us believe that if we just do good work, the rewards will automatically follow. But the reality is that long-term career growth requires a proven playbook for self-advocacy—and learning how to turn your everyday accomplishments into undeniable impact.

That’s why I was so excited to sit down with Shailvi Wakhlu, author of Self Advocacy: Your Guide to Getting What You Deserve at Work. Shailvi shared her journey of transforming a popular conference talk into a published book, how writing a book completely elevated her authority and paid speaking opportunities, and the practical daily habits you can use to speak up authentically in your career. Whether you are navigating corporate life or looking to publish a book to build authority outside your 9-to-5, this conversation is packed with actionable insights you can apply immediately!

Resources Mentioned in This Episode:

• Shailvi Wakhlu’s Website: https://shailvi.com
• Connect with Shailvi Wakhlu on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shailviw/
• Purchase Shailvi Wakhlu's Book Self Advocacy: Your Guide to Getting What You Deserve at Work: https://amzn.to/4yKVbz2

If this episode resonated with you or someone you know, don't forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share it with those who might need to hear Shailvi Wakhlu's story. For more resources to help you write and market your book, visit kellyschuknecht.com.

What if the worst thing that ever happened in your business was actually the catalyst for your greatest story? What if you could take the hardest, most embarrassing setback you’ve ever experienced—a failed launch, a lost job, or even a devastating lawsuit—and turn it into a book that changes lives?

As an entrepreneur, I know firsthand how overwhelming it feels when unexpected challenges hit. When I was laid off from my job, I felt embarrassed to talk about it. But the second I started sharing the real, unvarnished story, everything shifted.

My guest today, Kettia Ming, understands this power intimately. After building and selling a successful childcare company, she was unexpectedly hit with a $1.5 million lawsuit over a non-compete technicality. Facing complete financial devastation, divorce, and starting from scratch, Kettia relied on her background as a 13-time marathon runner to navigate the storm. She took it one mile, and one step, at a time.

Eventually, Kettia sat down at her computer to process the chaos, and those journal entries became her powerful book, Run the Mile You're In: One Founder's Journey Through Success, Loss, and Reinvention. Click play to hear Kettia’s incredible story of resilience, her tactical advice for dealing with extreme business anxiety, and how writing your story can heal your past while inspiring others!

Connect & Resources Mentioned in This Episode:

• Purchase Kettia's book, Run the Mile You're In: https://amzn.to/3TnKjak
• Visit Kettia Ming’s Official Website: https://kettiaming.com
• Beyond the Bestseller YouTube: https://www.youtube me.com/
• Beyond the Bestseller PodBean: https://kellyschuknecht.podbean.com/

If this episode resonated with you or someone you know, don't forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share it with those who might need to hear Kettia's story. For more resources to help you write and market your book, visit kellyschuknecht.com.

What if the doubt you feel isn't a sign that you should quit, but proof that you're taking a risk worth pursuing?

As creatives, entrepreneurs, and aspiring authors, so many of us are secretly battling the same internal chatter. "Who am I to do this?" "What if I look silly?" "What if nobody cares?" We spend so much energy trying to erase those uncomfortable feelings before we ever hit publish, launch the project, or write the first chapter. But what if we stopped trying to banish our doubts and started learning how to walk alongside them instead?

That is exactly what author Amy Bernstein and I dive into in this powerful episode of Beyond the Bestseller. Amy is a lifelong creative who has published seven books—including her illustrated non-fiction title, Wrangling the Doubt Monster: Fighting Fears, Finding Inspiration. Together, we unpack why self-doubt is actually a natural byproduct of taking creative risks, how to build a support network of allies to keep you moving forward, and how to navigate the honest realities of choosing between self-publishing and traditional publishing based on your personal strengths and temperament.

Click play to learn how you can turn your self-doubt from a foe into fuel and step confidently into your creative goals!

Links & Resources Mentioned in This Episode:

• Amy Bernstein's Website: https://amywrites.live
• Wrangling the Doubt Monster by Amy Bernstein on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/dp/1685130761
• Goal Digger Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/goaldiggerpodcast/
• Goal Digger Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/goaldiggerpodcast/
• Beyond the Best Seller Show Notes: https://kellyschuknecht.com/podcast

If this episode resonated with you or someone you know, don't forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share it with those who might need to hear Amy's story. For more resources to help you write and market your book, visit kellyschuknecht.com.

What if your life shifted overnight? What if you went from managing nationwide teams in corporate America to suddenly managing medication, doctor appointments, and daily care for three aging parents?

For so many business owners, leaders, and professionals, the reality of caregiving comes on slowly—until a sudden health event forces a total lifestyle shift. This week, I sit down with Debbie Compton, lead author of the global bestselling series The Caregiver's Advocate (Volumes 1 & 2) and author of Caregiving: How to Hold On While Letting Go. Debbie shares her raw, personal journey of leaving her 15-year corporate career to care for her parents and mother-in-law through vascular dementia, Parkinson’s, and Alzheimer’s.

Debbie doesn't teach theory; she teaches what works. From navigating showering challenges and driving boundaries to establishing power of attorney before it's too late, this episode provides actionable, trench-tested advice for anyone in the caregiving space. We also dive into how corporations can better support caregiving employees with remote options, and why finding the humor and joy is essential for your survival. Click play to find out how to hold on while letting go!

Resources & Links Mentioned in This Episode:

• Buy The Caregiver's Advocate (Volume 1) on Amazon: https://amzn.to/43HH2V1
• Buy The Caregiver's Advocate (Volume 2) on Amazon: https://amzn.to/43HH2V1
• Debbie Compton's Website: https://thepurplevine.com

If this episode resonated with you or someone you know, don't forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share it with those who might need to hear Debbie's story. For more resources to help you write and market your book, visit kellyschuknecht.com.

In this engaging interview, Grace Salmon shares her extensive experience in writing, publishing, and marketing books across genres. She discusses her innovative Launchpad series, the evolution of self-publishing, and insights into storytelling, editing, and building a successful author career.

Key Takeaways From This Episode:

• The Launchpad Framework: Understanding the three distinct phases every author must conquer: writing, publishing, and marketing.
• Defining Success Early: Why you need to know your audience, market, and budget (both financial and emotional) before you even begin writing.
• The Power of Editing: Why multiple rounds of professional editing, beta readers, and street teams are absolutely essential for any book.
• Claiming Your Voice: How telling your own story prevents the intergenerational price of silence and builds true, authentic connection.

Resources Mentioned in This Episode:
• Connect with Grace Sammon: https://www.gracesammon.net
• Buy the Launchpad Series on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com
• Buy The Reliable Narrator on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com

If this episode resonated with you or someone you know, don't forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share it with those who might need to hear Grace Sammon's story. For more resources to help you write and market your book, visit kellyschuknecht.com.

In this episode of Beyond the Bestseller, host Kelly Schuknecht interviews Maria Kyriakos, author of 'Work It: How to Rock Your Career Intentionally.' They discuss the importance of taking charge of one's career, the target audience for the book, and the challenges faced in corporate environments. Maria emphasizes the need for influential communication and provides tools for effective career management. The conversation also explores the decision-making process regarding staying in a job versus seeking new opportunities, ultimately empowering professionals to take control of their career paths.

 

Connect with Maria:

• Website: Leader Assist Executive Coaching
• Email: maria@leadership-assist.com
• Get the Course: Work It (Available at WORK IT! ONLINE COURSE)
• Buy the Book: Work It: How to Rock Your Career Intentionally on Amazon https://amzn.to/4uNLtd2

If this episode resonated with you or someone you know, don't forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share it with those who might need to hear Maria Kyriakos's story. For more resources to help you write and market your book, visit kellyschuknecht.com.