The Book Mentor Podcast

Karen Williams

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/@librotas

  1. Sep 28

    The Realities of Writing a Business Book (Special Episode)

    The Book Mentor Podcast Show Notes  The Realities of Writing a Business Book Special episode – September 2026 You can watch the video version of this podcast at https://youtu.be/igTCFydDkkg Hosts: Karen Williams and Sheryl Andrews Welcome 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 insights Give 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 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://x.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    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 pandemic 03:43 Discussing the motivation for writing 07:11 The evolving self-publishing landscape 10:27 Testing and refining a book idea 15:12 Journey to Writing the Book 19:16 Writing and publishing challenges 20:43 Realizing the book lacked emotion 23:27 Reflecting on past writing decisions 26:57 Improving conversational purpose Keywords:  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

  2. Mar 12

    There Is No Safe Way to Be Bold with Zana Goic Petricevic [S5 E17]

    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 Connections 04:26 Writing Books and Bold Leadership 08:59 Bold Writing Requires Vulnerability 12:32 Risks of Sharing Ideas 16:15 Prioritizing Reader Engagement in Books 17:57 Work with a Book Mentor 20:44 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 setting, personal brand, sharing personal stories, experimenting, book methodology, professional fulfilment, writing a book

  3. Mar 5

    Start With What You Know with Akasha Lonsdale [S5 E16]

    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 Impact 05:22 Guide to Religious Etiquette 07:12 Unexpected Falls and Recovery 12:27 A to Z Book Structure 13:46 Mind Maps and Post-it Planning 16:36 Mind Mapping and Writing Tools 22:47 Respect Your Creative Rhythm 24:14 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

  4. Feb 26

    Why Interviews Make Better Books with Julia Wood [S5 E15]

    Today, Karen Williams sits down with Julia Wood. With over 30 years’ experience working with or for the NHS, Julia is on a mission to help NHS professionals feel less frazzled, and she’s the author of the insightful new book, De-frazzle Your NHS Job.  In this conversation, Julia Wood opens up about her personal journey—balancing a high-pressure role, caring for family, and ultimately finding a way to support her own well-being.    She shares how her lived experience, combined with in-depth interviews with NHS staff, formed the backbone of her book. They discuss the importance of niching down, the power of gathering real stories, and how these lessons translate into practical support for anyone working within, or alongside, the NHS.   Whether you’re curious about writing your own book, struggling with workplace overwhelm, or simply want to hear how honest, actionable advice can make a real difference, this episode is packed with inspiration, practical tips, and a behind-the-scenes look at turning experience into 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 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 with your book via www.librotas.com.    Key Takeaways   Real stories create real impact: Interviewing a diverse group of NHS staff added depth, relevance, and broad appeal to my book—don’t underestimate the power of community voices when sharing your message.   Practical tools beat theory: Readers don’t just want to know ‘what’ to do, but ‘how.’ Short chapters, reflective exercises, and actionable templates make change actually stick.   Niche down to level up: Focusing specifically on the NHS meant directly addressing specific challenges, leading to genuine engagement, opportunities, and a growing community of “cheerleaders.”   Bio   Julia Wood is on a mission to help NHS staff feel less frazzled. She’s the author of De-frazzle Your NHS Job and regularly speaks at conferences, as well as delivering workshops and masterclasses on the topic. Julia has over 30 years’ experience working in or for the NHS.   Website: www.de-frazzle.co.uk    Book link: https://www.amazon.co.uk/frazzle-Your-NHS-Job-minutes/dp/1919423702/    Socials:     https://www.linkedin.com/in/juliawoodqi https://x.com/JuliaWoodQI https://www.facebook.com/Defrazzle    Time stamped overview:   00:00 Struggles of Overwork and Caregiving 03:12 NHS Lived Experience Strategies 06:31 Impact and Collaboration Under Pressure 10:44 Broad Questions, Honest Insights 16:17 Reframing Marketing as Serving 18:15 Book Gaining Enthusiastic Support 20:48 Motivation for Writing Books   Keywords:    NHS staff well-being, stress management, burnout prevention, NHS staff shortages, high pressure work environments, time management, organization skills, work-life balance, quality improvement tools, change management techniques, team dynamics, working with challenging relationships, nhs staff resources, interviews with NHS staff, book testimonials, book beta readers, marketing for books, conference speaking, workshops for NHS staff, book launch strategies, business credibility, niche publishing, resources for NHS professionals

  5. Feb 19

    The Space That Makes a Book Happen [S5 E14]

    Ready to make real progress on your book? In this episode Karen Williams and Sheryl Andrews dive deep into the concept of creating space to write – beyond just physically sitting down at your desk. They share insights from years of running writing retreats and coaching authors, exploring why just carving out time isn’t enough.   From managing life’s distractions (like bathroom renovations!) and breaking away from daily triggers, to finding the environments and support systems that truly nurture creativity, this conversation is packed with practical wisdom.    Karen and Sheryl talk about the transformative power of writing with others, processing emotions that surface through storytelling, and the vital importance of peer support, accountability, and kindness on your author journey.   Whether you’re squeezing in writing before breakfast or dreaming of a week in sunny Spain, this episode will help you redefine how you think about making space for your book—and inspire you to commit, connect, and create your best work.   ** 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 except May when we take a break. 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 writing retreats and Smart Author Momentum) at https://www.librotas.com/librotasevents. Or contact Karen Williams to find out how she can help you via www.librotas.com.    Key insights   Space isn’t just physical—it’s mental and emotional. It's not just about finding a quiet room or retreat (though those help!), but also about giving your brain permission to transition into writing mode and being mindful of the emotional journey that comes with authorship.   Peer support is invaluable. Talking your ideas through with others (as in their Author Circle and Smart Author Momentum groups) helps clarify thoughts, unlock memories, and normalize the ups and downs. “Having another human being there...reduces the stress in the system because you feel less alone.”   Growth happens in the messy middle. Writing a book isn't just a creative project; it’s a personal transformation. You’ll process emotions, revisit tough moments, and become more visible as you commit to your book – and peer support and retreats accelerate this growth.   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 Challenges of Transitioning to Writing 04:27 Creating Space for Writing 06:31 Rest, Space, and Fresh Perspectives 11:46 The Power of Peer Support 13:32 Finding Voice Through Shared Space 16:44 Isolation Triggers Brain Survival State 20:41 Creating Focused Writing Spaces 24:12 The Author's Journey of Growth 27:27 The Journey to Writing Again 30:04 Finding Support to Write   Keywords:    writing a book, writing retreats, author retreats, writing mode, peer support, writing groups, overcoming inner critic, book growth, author identity, clean space, clean language, body doubling, neurodiversity and writing, survival brain, safe space, writing tone of voice, feedback, group book coaching, author circle, publishing a book, safe space to write, writing support, author support, writing retreats Spain, smart author momentum

  6. Feb 12

    The Moment When a Book Becomes a Spark with Christine Barnes [S5 E13]

    Today, Karen Williams is joined by Christine Barnes, a global thought leader in organizational design and systems thinking, who has just launched her new book, Inclusionable.    Christine shares her inspiring journey of returning to academia at 63 to pursue doctoral research on inclusive leadership, and how she transformed her rigorous dissertation into a practical, story-driven business book.    From overcoming the challenges of narrative writing to creating a global community around inclusion, Christine’s insights reveal how leaders can spark lasting change and engagement in the workplace.    In this episode, you'll hear candid stories, key aha moments, and actionable tips for anyone thinking about writing their own business book—or leading with greater inclusion. Inclusionable isn’t just a book, but the beginning of a movement for more connected, effective teams worldwide.    ** 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   Stories Create Connection: Real-life leadership stories from Christine’s research bring inclusion to life, making it relatable and actionable for readers. People learn best from peers – not just experts.   From Dissertation to Narrative: Academic rigor is valuable, but translating it into a practical, engaging book means distilling evidence and embracing storytelling. Christine’s shift from tables and stats to narrative changed everything. Inclusion Is Not Just DEI: "Inclusionable" focuses on inclusion as a tool for leaders to create better engagement and performance – not as part of a DEI checklist. It’s about practical strategies leaders can use every day.   Bio   Christine Barnes, EdD is a global thought leader on organization design, development and systems thinking. Her work of inspiring leaders and teams to solve complex business challenges effectively is at the intersection of her doctoral research on inclusionary practices of leaders, her years of executive coaching, and her passion for continuous improvement.   Website: www.inclusionable.com    Book link: www.inclusionable.com    Socials: www.LinkedIn.com/in/christinebarnes    Time stamped overview:   00:00 From Dissertation to Impactful Book 05:05 Leadership Insights: Stories Over Data 09:13 Creating Community Through Connection 10:52 Impact of Shared Reflections 14:13 Inclusion as Leadership Strategy 18:29 Collaborative Publishing Process Insights 23:25 Start Small, Keep It Simple 26:17 Write, Edit, Move Forward   Keywords:    organizational design, systems thinking, executive coaching, inclusive leadership, STEM organizations, inclusionary practices, inclusion biases, academic research, leadership development, narrative writing, qualitative research, quantitative research, evidence-based book, storytelling, business impact, book launch, creating a movement, community building, online connections, hybrid publishing, london book fair, girl Friday productions, manuscript editing, thought leadership, employee engagement, leadership strategy, practicing inclusion, writing a business book

  7. Feb 5

    Creating a Movement with a Book with Saar Ben-Attar [S5 E12]

    Today, Karen Williams sits down with Saar Ben-Attar, founder of Ascent Growth Partners and acclaimed author of Challengers – How a New Breed of Leaders Collaborates and Wins in a Hyper Competitive World.  Saar shares the story behind his first book, revealing how his journey – filled with collaboration, frustration, and innovation – shaped both its content and its impact. They dive into the evolution of leadership and ecosystem growth, from the challenges of writing and publishing, to the real-world impact his book has had for organisations worldwide.    The episode explores the exciting frontier where business books meet generative AI, discussing how AI is helping readers bridge the gap between knowing and doing, driving creativity, and enabling more practical application of the book’s practices.   Whether you’re an aspiring author, an innovation leader, or simply curious about the intersection of business and technology, this episode dives into behind-the-scenes writing insights and a glimpse of the future where books become dynamic tools for change.    ** 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   From Words to Action: Writing and publishing a business book is just the beginning. The real transformation happens when readers move beyond passive consumption and start actively applying practices in their organizations.   Amplifying Creativity with AI: Saar shared how generative AI isn’t just a marketing tool – it’s a bridge to new collaborative possibilities, allowing readers to creatively engage with concepts and accelerate scenario planning from weeks to mere hours.   Collaboration Drives Innovation: The secret sauce? Consistent collaboration – both in crafting the book and developing tools that empower leaders to bring ecosystem thinking into their everyday work.   Bio   Saar Ben-Attar is the founder of Ascent Growth Partners, an award-winning firm that focuses on innovation and ecosystem-driven growth, supporting clients in fast-growing economies in the Middle East, Africa and Southeast Asia, with offices in Johannesburg and Singapore. He has been working with Fortune Global 500 as well as mid-sized, high growth organisations for over 20 years, helping them to realise their growth aspirations.    As a national expert in Business Ecosystems, under the auspices of the International Organization for Standardization (ISO), he has helped to develop a new global guidance standard for Innovation Ecosystem Management (ISO 56012).   His highly collaborative approach has given rise to partnerships formed with leading organisations that augment Ascent’s work, including business schools and industry think tanks.    Apart from his role at Ascent Growth Partners, he serves as an Advisory Board member and is an Executive Fellow at the Center for the Future of Organization, at the Peter F. Drucker School of Management. His book, Challengers: How a New Breed of Leaders Collaborates and Wins in a Hyper-Competitive World, has won acclaim and is available on Amazon.com.    Website: www.ascent-growth.com    Book link: https://www.amazon.com/Challengers-Breed-Leaders-Collaborates-Competitive/dp/B0CYWG78FQ   Book a 15 minute call with Saar here   Socials:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/saarbenattar    Time stamped overview:   00:00 Journey of Collaborative Creation 06:10 Motivation, Challenges, and Learning 09:39 Insights on Collaboration and AI 11:45 Generative AI for Creative Impact 16:16 Testing Practices for Real Life 22:02 AI's Human Journey and Limits 25:32 Effective AI Use Requires Clarity 29:16 Generative AI Bridges Global Collaboration 32:13 Collaborative AI-Powered Book Innovation 34:34 Creating Value and Visibility   Keywords:    ecosystem-driven growth, Ascent Growth Partners, book writing journey, leadership, hyper-competitive world, , AI innovation, generative AI, collaborative learning, bestselling author, Amazon books, podcast appearances, collaborative ecosystems, organizational impact, value creation, business practices, digital tools, card deck, AI digital assistant, cultural collaboration, future of AI ethics, book publishing

  8. Jan 29

    How to Self-Edit Like a Pro with Katie Chambers [S5 E11]

    Today, we’re joined by Katie Chambers, developmental editor, copy editor, and owner of Beacon Point, LLC. Passionate about helping authors shape compelling fiction and nonfiction, Katie brings a unique perspective—not only as an experienced editor, but now as an author herself.   Karen Williams dives into Katie’s journey on both sides of the publishing fence: from supporting nearly 300 books behind the scenes to navigating the vulnerable experience of publishing her own self-editing guides for fiction and nonfiction writers. Together, they explore the emotional rollercoaster of imposter syndrome, the challenge of knowing when to stop editing, and the importance of getting honest feedback from beta readers—as well as engaging professional editors, even if you’re one yourself.   You’ll gain practical insights into the stages and types of editing, learn why investing in covers and blurbs might be more crucial than you think, and hear candid opinions about the powerful—but sometimes controversial—role of AI in writing and editing. Whether you’re just starting your manuscript, deep in revisions, or strategizing your book launch, Katie’s hard-won advice and actionable takeaways will help you level up your writing and publishing process.    ** 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   Editing is a Multistage Process: Katie stressed that self-editing isn't a one-and-done deal. It often takes as much (or more!) time than writing your draft. Breaking your editing into focused rounds (story, scene/content, then actual writing improvements) is far more effective than trying to tackle everything at once.   The Value of Outside Support (Even for Editors!): Even as a professional editor, Katie invested in external editing, beta readers, and honest feedback to gain a fresh perspective. She emphasized that authors are always “blind to their own errors,” and an outside eye is essential—even for seasoned editors.   AI Is a Tool, Not a Replacement: Katie and Karen discussed using AI tools like ChatGPT and Claude for feedback and example generation. The consensus? AI can speed up certain parts of the process and offer new angles, but it’s never a substitute for thoughtful self-editing and professional review. Always make ethical, transparent choices about how and when to use these technologies.   Bio   Katie Chambers, a developmental editor, copy editor, and owner of Beacon Point LLC, helps authors shape powerful fiction and nonfiction. With a background in teaching middle and high school English and formal public speaking training, Katie brings clarity, enthusiasm, and a teacher’s heart to every presentation. She loves editing and running her business. Still, teaching is at her core, so give her a mic and a room of writers, and she's right at home. She’s passionate about helping authors strengthen their writing and better understand the editing process.   Website: https://beaconpointservices.org    Book link: https://beaconpointservices.org/self-editing-guides    Socials: https://www.linkedin.com/in/katie-chambers-62b16bb3    Time stamped overview:   00:00 Perils of Perpetual Editing 06:15 Investing in Writing & Feedback 08:11 Write Fearlessly, Edit Mercilessly 11:42 Write Fearlessly, Edit Honestly 14:47 Big Picture Editing Overview 20:08 AI: Nuance Over Black and White 21:07 AI-Assisted Editing and Examples 26:52 Editing: AI vs. Human Touch 27:55 Embracing and Learning ChatGPT 34:20 Author Management Tracker Development 35:49 Book Launch Strategy Tips   Keywords:    editing process, self-editing, copy editing, developmental editing, proofreading, imposter syndrome, beta readers, AI in writing, ChatGPT, Claude AI, professional editor, book publishing, author journey, book writing tips, feedback for authors, book marketing, cover design, book description, author bio, manuscript evaluation, editing levels, fiction writing, nonfiction writing, editing tools, writing drafts, publishing journey, editing costs, marketing strategies, advance review copies, arc readers

About

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/@librotas