Beyond the Bestseller

Kelly Schuknecht
  • 5.0 (5)
  • Books
  • Updated Weekly

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.

  1. 2d ago

    How to Advocate for Yourself at Work & Build Authority with Shailvi Wakhlu

    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.

    How to Advocate for Yourself at Work & Build Authority with Shailvi Wakhlu

  2. Aug 10

    How She Survived a $1.5M Lawsuit & Built a Bestseller with Kettia Ming

    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.

    How She Survived a $1.5M Lawsuit & Built a Bestseller with Kettia Ming

  3. Aug 3

    Overcome Self-Doubt & Choose Your Publishing Path with Amy Bernstein

    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.

    Overcome Self-Doubt & Choose Your Publishing Path with Amy Bernstein

  4. Jul 27

    How to Survive Caregiving Without Burnout with Debbie Compton

    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.

    How to Survive Caregiving Without Burnout with Debbie Compton

  5. Jul 20

    Don't Stop Creating: Why Your Story Is Just Beginning! with Grace Sammon

    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.

    Don't Stop Creating: Why Your Story Is Just Beginning! with Grace Sammon

  6. Jul 13

    Write a Book, Build Authority; How to Grow Your Business with Maria Kyriakos

    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.

    Write a Book, Build Authority; How to Grow Your Business with Maria Kyriakos

  7. Jul 6

    How High-Achieving Women Win Without Burnout with Dr. Lakila Bowden

    In this episode of Beyond the Bestseller, host Kelly Schuknecht interviews Dr. Lakila Bowden, author of The Sho'nuff Principle. They discuss the importance of self-care, self-promotion, and self-celebration for high-achieving women. Lakila shares insights on how to prioritize oneself, the significance of acknowledging accomplishments, and the true purpose behind writing a book. The conversation emphasizes the need for women to overcome guilt and embrace their achievements, while also exploring the dynamics of partnership and support in personal and professional life. Key Takeaways From This Episode: The Power of Reality Curation: Understanding how your internal narrative actively shapes the external resources, people, and opportunities you attract. Overcoming the Guilt of Self-Care: Why high-achieving women struggle with rest and how to intentionally banish guilt to reclaim your superpower. The 5-5-5 Reward System: A simple, actionable framework to celebrate your micro-achievements in 5 minutes, 5 hours, or 5 days. Learning to "Brag More": How authentic self-promotion amplifies your impact and ensures you actually feel as accomplished as you are. Writing for Impact Over Lists: Shift your perspective from chasing bestseller metrics to focusing on deep, organic reader connection. Resources Mentioned in This Episode: Purchase the book, The Sho'nuff Principle, on Amazon: https://amzn.to/4dXZSw6 Connect with Dr. LaKela Bowden on her website: Lakila Bowden – Teaching Women to Rest, Rise, and Celebrate Out Loud Connect with Dr. LaKela Bowden on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lakilabowden 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. LaKela Bowden's story. For more resources to help you write and market your book, visit kellyschuknecht.com.

    How High-Achieving Women Win Without Burnout with Dr. Lakila Bowden

  8. Jun 29

    The Secret to Authentistic Leadership: Build an Unstoppable Team with Jaclyn Strominger

    In this episode of Beyond the Bestseller, host Kelly Schuknecht interviews Jaclyn Strominger, author of 'Charting True North, the CEO's Guide to Authentistic Leadership.' They discuss the concept of authentic leadership, the importance of aligning personal and company values, and the process of writing a leadership series. Jaclyn shares insights on the collaborative writing process with her co-author, the significance of mentorship in leadership, and the balance between natural and learned leadership skills. The conversation emphasizes the need for leaders to reflect on their mission and values to foster a positive and productive work environment. Resources Mentioned In This Episode: Purchase Jaclyn's Book: Charting True North: The CEO's Guide to Authentistic Leadership on Amazon: https://amzn.to/4o4yrFh Jaclyn Strominger's Website: https://www.leaptoyoursuccess.com Connect with Jaclyn on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jaclynstrominger Jaclyn's Podcast: Unstoppable Success Books Mentioned: Eat That Frog! by Brian Tracy 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 Jaclyn's story. For more resources to help you write and market your book, visit kellyschuknecht.com.

    The Secret to Authentistic Leadership: Build an Unstoppable Team with Jaclyn Strominger
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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.

Information

  • Creator
    Kelly Schuknecht
  • Years Active
    2024 - 2026
  • Episodes
    95
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Copyright 2024 All rights reserved.
  • Show Website
    Beyond the Bestseller