Beyond the Bestseller

Financial Secrets Revealed: Empowering Women with Amanda Cassar

How do we take control of our finances, break generational patterns, and empower ourselves through financial knowledge? In today’s episode of Beyond the Bestseller, I sit down with Amanda Cassar, author of Financial Secrets Revealed. Amanda shares how her book uncovers the hidden money stories from real people—stories that not only reveal financial wisdom but also highlight the crucial role that financial literacy plays in creating a secure future.

We explore:

• The inspiration behind writing Financial Secrets Revealed and why Amanda wanted to explore money stories.
• How Amanda found her interviewees, including people from all walks of life—from financial advisors to astronauts—and the lessons they shared.
• Generational money beliefs and how they influence our financial decisions today.
• The difference between time as money versus viewing money as a tool to fuel your future goals.
• The role of financial literacy in overcoming hardship and the stories of people who transformed their financial situations.

Amanda’s journey to writing this book and sharing the financial secrets of others offers valuable lessons on taking control of your financial future, no matter where you start.

Links & Resources Mentioned:

• Grab a copy of Financial Secrets Revealed: https://amzn.to/4gwjVl6 (affiliate link)
• Visit Amanda’s website: AmandaCassar.com.au.
• Learn more about financial abuse resources: Purple Purse Campaign and financial abuse support resources.
• Connect with Amanda on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amandacassar/

If this episode inspired you, don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share it with someone who could benefit from these financial insights. For more resources to help you write and market your book, visit kellyschuknecht.com.

From Broken to Brilliant: Embracing Resilience with Mary Fran Bontempo

How do you turn life’s toughest challenges into opportunities for growth and brilliance? In this inspiring interview, I chat with Mary Fran Bontempo, author, speaker, and co-founder of Brilliantly Resilient, about her journey through adversity and the transformative process of building resilience. Mary Fran shares her personal story of navigating her son’s addiction and how she turned that experience into a teachable system that empowers others to reclaim their lives.

We explore:

• The pivotal moment that inspired Mary Fran’s book, From Broken to Brilliant.
• The foundational steps of her Brilliantly Resilient framework and how it can help anyone facing challenges.
• Why taking imperfect action is the key to moving forward in any situation.
• The importance of releasing shame, embracing failure, and controlling what you can.
• Her insights on self-publishing, building a platform, and sharing your story authentically.

Mary Fran’s wisdom and humor will leave you inspired to find your own brilliance, no matter what life throws your way.

Links & Resources Mentioned:

• Explore From Broken to Brilliant: https://amzn.to/49PNrzM (affiliate link)
• Learn more about Mary Fran’s work: brilliantlyresilient.net and maryfranbontempo.com.
• Connect with Mary Fran on LinkedIn: Mary Fran Bontempo.
• Follow her on Instagram and Facebook under @maryfranbontempo.

If this episode resonated with you, don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share it with someone who needs a reminder of their own resilience. For more resources to help you write and market your book, visit kellyschuknecht.com.

The Selfish Season: Redefining Midlife and Putting Yourself First with Jen Lawrence

What if midlife isn’t the end of an era but the start of something extraordinary? In this inspiring interview, I chat with Jen Lawrence, co-author of The Selfish Season and co-founder of Selfish Company Inc., about reclaiming midlife as a time of reinvention and empowerment. Jen shares how her book helps women let go of societal expectations, embrace their ambitions, and unapologetically put themselves first.

We explore:

• How Jen and her co-author turned their experiences into a 7-step framework to help women thrive in midlife.
• Why embracing “selfishness” is essential for finding purpose and fulfillment—and how to redefine the word.
• The power of rewriting your internal narrative and setting boundaries for personal growth.
• Jen’s actionable advice for midlife women feeling stuck or ready for a change.
• The importance of community and accountability for staying on track with your goals.

Jen’s insights are a refreshing reminder that it’s never too late to rewrite your story and prioritize what truly matters.

Links & Resources Mentioned:

• Grab a copy of The Selfish Season: https://amzn.to/3BJGt2P (affiliate link)
• Learn more and connect with Jen: selfishcompanyinc.com

If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share it with someone who’s ready to embrace their next chapter. For more resources to help you write and market your book, visit kellyschuknecht.com.

The Mentorship Edge: How Giving Back Shapes Our Lives with Deborah Heiser

What does mentorship really mean, and why is it essential for personal and professional growth? In this episode of Beyond the Bestseller, I sit down with Deborah Heiser, applied developmental psychologist, CEO of The Mentor Project, and author of The Mentorship Edge. Deborah shares how mentorship goes beyond professional settings, offering emotional fulfillment and a sense of purpose, especially in midlife.

We explore:

• The emotional and developmental benefits of mentorship for both mentors and mentees.
• Why true mentorship must be driven by intrinsic motivation—not obligation or rewards.
• The key differences between mentoring, leading, and advising in the workplace.
• How Deborah’s journey with The Mentor Project is redefining mentorship worldwide.

Whether you’re looking to become a mentor, find one, or simply better understand its value, this episode is packed with insights that will inspire you to embrace mentorship in your life.

Links & Resources Mentioned:

• Grab Deborah’s book, The Mentorship Edge: https://amzn.to/4gCtz5D (affiliate link)
• Explore The Mentor Project and its free mentoring resources: mentorproject.org.
• Connect with Deborah on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/deborah-heiser-phd/
• Discover Deborah’s writing on Substack: https://deborahheiserphd.substack.com/
• Learn more about the Author Power Circle: kellyschuknecht.com/author-power-circle.

If this episode inspired you, don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share it with someone who values mentorship. For more resources to help you write and market your book, visit kellyschuknecht.com.

The Words We Choose: The Power of Intentional Language with Terre Short

How do the words we choose shape our lives, relationships, and leadership? In this episode of Beyond the Bestseller, I sit down with Terre Short, author of The Words We Choose, to explore how intentional language can inspire positivity, build confidence, and create deeper connections. Terre shares her journey as an author and leadership coach, revealing how even small shifts in word choices can have a transformative impact.

We dive into:

• Why your internal narrative (your “personal podcast”) matters and how to rewrite it for success.
• The difference between saying “I have to” vs. “I get to” and how it fosters gratitude.
• The power of eliminating limiting words and replacing them with assertive, intentional language.
• Terre’s writing journey, tips for aspiring authors, and what’s next for her in the leadership space.

This conversation is packed with actionable insights for anyone looking to improve communication, build resilience, and lead with intention.

Links & Resources Mentioned:

• Grab Terre’s books (affiliate links):
  • The Words We Choose: https://amzn.to/3OW5zhX 
  • The Great Leadhership Awakening: https://amzn.to/3DgNyZe
• Explore Terre’s leadership resources and newsletter: thrivingleadercollaborative.com.
• Connect with Terre on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/terreshort/.
• Learn more about the Author Power Circle: kellyschuknecht.com/author-power-circle.

If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share it with someone who’s ready to take their communication and leadership to the next level. For more resources to help you write and market your book, visit kellyschuknecht.com.

Overcoming Awkward: Networking Tips for Introverts with Monica Parkin

Ever feel out of place walking into a networking event or putting yourself out there professionally? In this episode of Beyond the Bestseller, I sit down with Monica Parkin, author of Overcoming Awkward: The Introvert's Guide to Networking, Marketing, and Sales. Monica opens up about her journey from avoiding social interactions to becoming an accomplished speaker, entrepreneur, and author who thrives on authentic connections.

We explore:

• How Monica turned her introverted tendencies into networking strengths.
• Practical strategies for building meaningful relationships without draining your social battery.
• Why showing up authentically is the secret to overcoming awkwardness.
• Tips for introverts to network online and in person in ways that feel natural and empowering.

Monica’s insights will inspire you to step outside your comfort zone and embrace networking as an opportunity to connect, grow, and achieve your goals.

Links & Resources Mentioned:

• Grab Monica’s book, Overcoming Awkward: https://amzn.to/3VnFPi7 (affiliate link)
• Learn more about Monica and her work: monicaparkin.ca.
• Watch Monica’s TEDx talk.
• Introverted Women Entrepreneurs Connecting: https://buildingherdream.com/events/
• Explore the Author Power Circle.

If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share it with someone who could use a little inspiration to overcome their own awkwardness. For more resources to help you write and market your book, visit kellyschuknecht.com.

Emotional Magnetism: How to Connect and Communicate Better with Sandy Gerber

What drives our decisions and helps us connect with others on a deeper level? In this episode of Beyond the Bestseller, I chat with Sandy Gerber, author of Emotional Magnetism, to uncover the four emotional magnets that shape our communication and relationships. Sandy shares how understanding these magnets has transformed her personal and professional life—and how they can do the same for you.

We explore:

• What emotional magnets are and how they drive our choices and connections.
• Practical tips for identifying and aligning with your own emotional magnet—and those of others.
• How Sandy turned her discoveries into a successful business and award-winning book.
• Why understanding emotional magnets can strengthen relationships at home, work, and beyond.

This episode is packed with actionable insights to help you improve your communication, build stronger relationships, and better understand the people around you.

Links & Resources Mentioned:

• Grab Sandy’s book, Emotional Magnetism: https://amzn.to/49rUazZ (affiliate link)
• Learn more about Sandy’s Stress-Free Holiday Playbook: https://sandy-gerber.mykajabi.com/holiday-communication-playbook
• Connect with Sandy on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sgerber/
• Watch Kelly’s video book review of Emotional Magnetism: https://youtu.be/F6-3yNH_AsY?si=ANT52KmcpLlZPors

If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share it with someone who could use a little inspiration to connect and communicate better. For more resources to help you write and market your book, visit kellyschuknecht.com.

Lifting Off: Lessons in Business, Empathy, and Selling Smart with Sharon B. Heaton

What does it take to build and sell a business with purpose? In this episode of Beyond the Bestseller, I sit down with Sharon B. Heaton, CEO of SB Liftoff and author of Liftoff: 12 Things to Know Before Selling Your Business. Sharon shares her journey from corporate finance to launching her own M&A advisory firm, helping business owners navigate one of the most important transitions of their lives.

We dive into:

• Sharon’s process for helping founders prepare their companies for sale.
• The power of empathy in negotiations and how it creates better outcomes for both buyers and sellers.
• A touching success story of a family business that grew beyond expectations.
• What women can bring to male-dominated industries and how Sharon leveraged her unique perspective to make an impact.

Whether you’re building a business, dreaming of an entrepreneurial venture, or simply curious about the world of mergers and acquisitions, this episode will leave you inspired to think big and embrace new opportunities.

Links & Resources Mentioned:

• Grab Sharon’s book, Liftoff: 12 Things to Know Before Selling Your Business: https://amzn.to/3ASjF0u (affiliate link)
• Learn more about Sharon’s work at SB Liftoff: https://www.sbliftoff.com/.
• Connect with Sharon directly via email: S.Heaton@sbliftoff.com.
• Explore the Author Power Circle: https://kellyschuknecht.com/author-power-circle.

If you loved this episode, don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share it with someone who needs a little inspiration to take their next big step. For more resources to help you write and market your book, visit https://kellyschuknecht.com.