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Beyond the Bestseller is a podcast for professional women, authors, and entrepreneurs who are ready to amplify their influence and impact. Join host Kelly Schuknecht as she dives into conversations with inspiring women who’ve written books to further their careers, build their brands, and share powerful messages. Each episode dives into real conversations, offering insights on writing, marketing, and using a book to open doors and spark new opportunities. Tune in for inspiring stories, expert advice, and the motivation to pursue your own big dreams. Go beyond the bestseller and discover what’s possible.
Beyond the Bestseller is a podcast for professional women, authors, and entrepreneurs who are ready to amplify their influence and impact. Join host Kelly Schuknecht as she dives into conversations with inspiring women who’ve written books to further their careers, build their brands, and share powerful messages. Each episode dives into real conversations, offering insights on writing, marketing, and using a book to open doors and spark new opportunities. Tune in for inspiring stories, expert advice, and the motivation to pursue your own big dreams. Go beyond the bestseller and discover what’s possible.
Episodes
6 days ago
6 days ago
In this episode of Beyond the Bestseller, host Kelly Schuknecht interviews Adriana Vaccaro, author of 'Culture Minded'. They discuss the importance of organizational culture, the writing process behind the book, and how personal stories can enhance the understanding of culture in the workplace. Adriana shares a success story of a client who transformed their organizational culture and emphasizes the need for intentionality in culture work. The conversation also touches on the significance of core values, measuring culture, and the ethical considerations of employee surveys. Adriana concludes by sharing her purpose in writing the book and how it has led to new opportunities for her business.
In this episode, we explore:
- How Adriana transitioned from a "statistics-first" mindset to using storytelling to connect with readers.
- Why culture is actually your company’s "autopilot" and how to be intentional about it.
- The truth about "anonymous" employee surveys and how to handle culture measurement ethically.
- How Adriana turned her book into a diversified business model with certifications, assessments, and cohorts.
- Practical ways for small business owners to start "culture work" through service delivery and client satisfaction tracking.
Connect with Adriana Vaccaro:
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/adrianavaccaro/
- Website: https://cultureredesign.com
- Book Portal & Resources: https://culture.minded
- Purchase the Book: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0D5M7Y3Z4 (Culture Minded: Six Tools to Transform Organizational Culture and Empower Humanity)
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 Adriana Vaccaro's story. For more resources to help you write and market your book, visit kellyschuknecht.com.
Monday May 25, 2026
Stop Just "Showing Up": 3 Steps to Living with Purpose with Marcy Axelrod
Monday May 25, 2026
Monday May 25, 2026
In this episode of Beyond the Bestseller, host Kelly Schuknecht interviews Marcy Axelrod, author of 'How We Choose to Show Up.' They discuss the journey of writing the book, the importance of understanding how we show up in life, and the three levels of showing up: barely there, just showing up, and truly showing up. Marcy emphasizes the need for a mindset shift to truly engage with the world and the significance of living a meaningful life. The conversation also touches on the challenges of transitioning from a state of stress to one of presence and authenticity, and Marcy shares her personal 'why' behind her work.
In this episode, we discuss:
- The three levels of showing up: Barely There, Just Showing Up, and Truly Showing Up.
- Why your energy is a "wave" before it becomes a "particle" in your physical reality.
- The impact of stress and cortisol on your creativity and ability to achieve your goals.
- How to transition from "By Me" (the treadmill of hard work) to "Through Me" (living in flow).
Resources Mentioned:
- Marcy Axelrod’s Book: How We Choose to Show Up on Amazon https://amzn.to/48nLEm7
- Marcy’s Website: ChooseToShowUp.com Marcy Axelrod
- Marcy’s Instagram: Instagram
- Kelly Schuknecht’s Website: https://kellyschuknecht.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 Marcy Axelrod's story. For more resources to help you write and market your book, visit kellyschuknecht.com.
Monday May 18, 2026
Monday May 18, 2026
In this episode of the Beyond the Bestseller podcast, host Kelly Schuknecht interviews Katie Maynard, author of 'The Ask.' Katie shares her journey of writing the book, which was inspired by her personal health crisis and the realization of the importance of asking questions and being curious about life. The conversation delves into the writing process, the significance of collaboration, and the diverse stories included in the book that aim to inspire others to break free from their limitations. Katie emphasizes the need for community and support in the creative process and offers valuable advice for aspiring authors.
In this episode, we discuss:
- How a life-threatening health crisis led to Katie's most important book yet.
- The power of "human-led AI" as a tool for organizing your thoughts and accelerating your writing process.
- Why every aspiring author needs a "book buddy" or coach to get across the finish line.
- Shifting from building someone else’s bottom line to defining your own "New World Order."
- Katie’s "BOSS" system for transitioning from the corporate world to entrepreneurship.
Resources Mentioned in This Episode:
- Purchase the book, The Ask: Break the Rules, Unleash Curiosity and Build the Future: https://amzn.to/42xivRW
- Connect with Katie Mehnert: https://katiemehnert.com
- Join the community of builders: https://www.thebeesuite.com/
- Learn more about Eric Shapiro: https://katiemehnert.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 Katie Mehnert's story. For more resources to help you write and market your book, visit kellyschuknecht.com.
Monday May 11, 2026
How to Reprogram Your Subconscious for Manifestation with Dr. Lise Janelle
Monday May 11, 2026
Monday May 11, 2026
In this episode of Beyond the Bestseller, host Kelly Schuknecht interviews Dr. Lise Janelle, a coach and author of 'Conversations with the Heart.' Dr. Janelle discusses the importance of understanding the subconscious mind and how it affects our actions and decisions. She introduces her Heart Freedom Method, which helps individuals identify and overcome subconscious blocks to achieve their goals. The conversation also touches on the challenges of writing a book, the importance of having a clear purpose, and advice for aspiring authors.
In this episode, we explore:
• The three symptoms that prove you have a subconscious belief holding you back.
• Why your subconscious mind isn't the enemy—it’s just trying to keep you alive.
• The "Football vs. Football Field" analogy for understanding the power of your mind.
• Dr. Lise’s experience co-authoring her upcoming book, Unstuck, with the legendary Jack Canfield.
• How to find your "Why" to move past the feeling of being a "fraud" when sharing your message.
Resources mentioned in this episode:
• Dr. Lise Janelle’s Book: Conversations with the Heart: https://amzn.to/49aTnnR
• Upcoming Book: Unstuck (Co-authored with Jack Canfield).
• Website: https://drlisejanelle.com/
• Online Course: Get Unstuck with Dr. Lise: https://drlisejanelle.com/
• Contact: Email Greg at greg@drlisejanelle.com for programming inquiries.
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. Lise Janelle's story. For more resources to help you write and market your book, visit kellyschuknecht.com.
Monday May 04, 2026
Monday May 04, 2026
In this episode of the Beyond the Bestseller podcast, host Kelly Schuknecht interviews Analiza Quiroz Wolfe, author of 'The Myths of Success: A Woman of Color's Guide to Leadership.' They discuss the unique challenges faced by women of color in leadership roles, the motivation behind Analiza's book, and the importance of debunking myths related to self-worth and cultural expectations. Analiza shares personal stories and insights from her experiences, as well as those of other women leaders of color, emphasizing the power of shared experiences in overcoming obstacles. The conversation also touches on the writing process and the impact of Analiza's other works, including children's books that celebrate diversity.
In this episode, we discuss:
- The specific challenges women of color face when climbing the executive ladder.
- How to share personal trauma and workplace stories in a book without naming names.
- Debunking the "worthiness" myth and why the marketing industry wants you to feel "not enough."
- Cultural "respect" vs. leadership presence: Navigating traditional upbringing in a modern corporate world.
- Analiza’s unique writing process (including how she wrote a draft on a cruise ship!).
Resources & Links Mentioned:
- Analiza’s Website: https://www.analizawolf.com
- Analiza’s Podcast: Women of Color Rise
- Purchase the Book: The Myths of Success: A Woman of Color's Guide to Leadership on Amazon https://amzn.to/4vVXtu6
- Connect with Analiza on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/analizawolf/
- Connect with Analiza on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/analizawolf/
- Mentioned Book: Nice Girls Don't Get the Corner Office by Dr. Lois Frankel
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 Analiza Quiroz Wolf’s story. For more resources to help you write and market your book, visit https://www.kellyschuknecht.com.
Monday Apr 27, 2026
Monday Apr 27, 2026
In this episode of Beyond the Best Seller, host Kelly Schuknecht interviews Sheree Bergeron, author of 'Mission Motherhood.' Sheree shares her deeply personal journey through a decade of infertility, including the emotional and physical challenges she faced. She discusses the motivation behind her book, which aims to educate and empower women experiencing similar struggles. The conversation also covers the writing and publishing process, the impact of her nonprofit Cheri's Choice, and advice for women navigating fertility challenges. Sheree emphasizes the importance of support and the various paths to motherhood, offering hope to those in similar situations.
In this episode, we discuss:
- The emotional roller coaster of a 10-year fertility journey and the power of "teaching memoirs."
- Why Cheri decided to invest in a professional ghostwriter and the company she used to shepherd her through the process.
- The shocking legal battle that became the ultimate "moment of surrender" and birthed her mission.
- How to plan your path to motherhood with the same intentionality as a career.
- Transitioning your personal brand from a male-dominated industry to a heart-centered nonprofit.
Connect with Cheri Bergeron:
- Purchase the book Mission Motherhood on Amazon: https://amzn.to/3OjUHxA
- Visit Cheri’s Website: Cheri Bergeron
- Learn about her nonprofit, Cheri’s Choice: Cheri's Choice
- Social Media: Follow Cheri on YouTube, Instagram, LinkedIn, and Facebook by searching for Cheri Bergeron.
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 Cheri Bergeron's story. For more resources to help you write and market your book, visit https://kellyschuknecht.com.
Monday Apr 20, 2026
Monday Apr 20, 2026
In this conversation, Dr. Melissa emphasizes the critical role of empathy in fostering connection and understanding. She discusses how empathy is not merely about feelings but involves the ability to take another person's perspective. This foundational aspect of emotional intelligence is essential for effective communication and interaction.
In this episode, we discuss:
• The difference between emotional intelligence (EQ) and empathy—and why empathy must come first.
• Dr. Melissa’s "four steps to self-empathy" and how to make them a daily habit.
• The "horror stories" of her publishing journey, including AI mishaps and copyright theft.
• Why she advocates for the self-publishing route over traditional academic presses.
• How to protect your work and your voice in an increasingly digital world.
Resources Mentioned in This Episode:
• Purchase the book: The Empathic Leader on Amazon: https://amzn.to/4tvIG7e
• Visit Dr. Melissa’s Website: https://www.eqviaempathy.com
• Watch Dr. Melissa’s TEDx Talk: 5 steps to start being kinder to yourself | Melissa Robinson-Winemiller | TEDxUTulsa
• Kelly’s Guide: How to Get a TEDx Talk: Your TEDx Speaker Guide - How to Become a TEDx Speaker
• Connect with Dr. Melissa on LinkedIn: Dr. Melissa Robinson-Winemiller, TEDx speaker, author, trainer | LinkedIn
• Listen to the Empathic Leader Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@TheEmpathicLeader
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. Melissa’s story. For more resources to help you write and market your book, visit https://kellyschuknecht.com.
Monday Apr 13, 2026
Monday Apr 13, 2026
In this conversation, Linda Magoon shares her personal journey of healing, emphasizing the importance of taking small steps and the role of support systems in personal growth. She reflects on her struggles and the actions that helped her move forward, highlighting the significance of resilience and self-motivation in the healing process.
In this episode, we discuss:
- How Linda used journaling and photography as a "writing prompt" to document her 48-summit journey.
- The reality of New Hampshire's brutal weather and why even experts train on Mount Washington.
- Overcoming the shame and secrecy of a toxic marriage to find autonomy in the outdoors.
- Why you don't need to hike a mountain to experience the healing benefits of nature.
- Practical tips for midlife women who want to start hiking but feel "late to the game".
Connect with Linda Magoon:
- Read the Book:
- Website: https://lindamagoon.com
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LindaKuligMagoon
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 Linda Magoon's story. For more resources to help you write and market your book, visit https://kellyschuknecht.com.
