Beyond Better with Stacy Ennis

Stacy Ennis
  • 4.9 (47)
  • Self-Improvement
  • Updated Weekly

Beyond Better is a podcast that explores a simple but profound idea: we all deserve to live lives that are not just better—but beyond better. I’m Stacy Ennis, an author, mom of two, and long-time location independent entrepreneur living in Portugal. Join me as I talk business, location independence, writing, travel, and so much more, all focused on building a life that is beyond better.

  1. Sep 9

    268. What it really takes to ghostwrite a bestseller

    bestsellers. We dig into what it means to work with a ghostwriter—a very different experience than working with AI. Unlike AI, a ghostwriter polishes your ideas, preserves your voice, and collaborates with you using in-depth interviews and iterative feedback. We discuss what defines author-ghostwriter success, as well as red flags to look for when choosing a ghostwriter (such as sites run by AI instead of humans), and AI limitations that can create big roadblocks to publishing. If you’ve ever wondered what ghostwriting involves, and whether it’s the right fit for your book, this episode is a must-listen! Kevin Anderson is a #1 New York Times bestselling editor, a #1 national bestselling author, and an entrepreneur and founder of multiple seven- and eight-figure editorial service businesses. His flagship company, Kevin Anderson & Associates (KAA) has worked with numerous bestselling and award-winning authors, prominent literary agents, Big 5 publishers, and a long list of public figures, successful professionals, and aspiring authors. Book recommendation: Unreasonable Hospitality: The Remarkable Power of Giving People More Than They Expect, by Will Guidara Get to know Kevin: WebsiteInstagram @kawritingTwitter @KAWritingFacebookLinkedInFollow me on: Instagram @stacyennisFacebook @stacyenniscreativeLinkedInYouTube @stacyennisauthorTo submit a question, email hello@stacyennis.com or join my email list http://stacyennis.com/join and fill out the form on the page.

    268. What it really takes to ghostwrite a bestseller

  2. Sep 2

    267. The 3 nonfiction book writing secrets I share with my clients

    burnout. Did you know you can create a blueprint that works for you that’s adjustable and tailored to your needs? Join me in this solo episode as I cut through the mystery of how to write a nonfiction book using tips and strategies I share with my clients. I describe how to evaluate your needs and situation and effectively plan out your writing schedule, while setting realistic expectations and goals. I’ll even explore different options you can choose for accountability, from tailored support through coaching to peer partners providing weekly check-ins. Get ready to take notes and learn how to customize your experience to your unique situation and goals. Here’s to progress in writing (and finishing) your book! Follow me on: Instagram @stacyennisFacebook @stacyenniscreativeLinkedInYouTube @stacyennisauthorTo submit a question, email hello@stacyennis.com or join my email list http://stacyennis.com/join and fill out the form on the page.

    267. The 3 nonfiction book writing secrets I share with my clients

  3. Aug 26

    266. Replay | Step by step guide to writing a book for entrepreneurs

    Writing a book as an entrepreneur isn't just about authorship—it's about amplifying your vision, expanding your reach, and building your business. In this episode, I walk you through my proven step-by-step system—used by 100+ successful authors—for writing a nonfiction book that aligns with your entrepreneurial goals. You'll learn: How to clarify your author vision and align it with your business strategyWhat goes into creating a powerful book concept and outlineHow to calendar your writing time for consistent, productive outputWhy editing is a team effort (and what kind of editor you really need)How to choose between self, hybrid, or traditional publishingThe marketing strategies that turn your book into a long-term growth assetIf you’re ready to add “author” to your title and scale your brand with purpose, this episode is your roadmap. Watch the full YouTube video here. Follow me on: Instagram @stacyennisFacebook @stacyenniscreativeLinkedInYouTube @stacyennisauthorTo submit a question, email hello@stacyennis.com or join my email list http://stacyennis.com/join and fill out the form on the page.

    266. Replay | Step by step guide to writing a book for entrepreneurs

  4. Aug 19

    265. Replay | 3 Rules to Turn Your Big Idea into a Best-Selling Book

    You’ve got a big idea—a message you know the world needs to hear. But how do you take that idea and actually turn it into a best-selling book? In this episode, I share the three rules every impactful author follows to transform their ideas into a powerful, unforgettable book: Make a bold statementUncover the simplicityTell great storiesWhether you’ve been dreaming about your book for years or you’re just starting to explore the possibility, these three rules will help you move from “someday” to creating the book that truly changes lives—including your own. Show notes: Read the full blog post here: https://stacyennis.com/3-rules-to-turn-your-big-idea-into-a-best-selling-book/.Watch the full YouTube video here. Follow me on: Instagram @stacyennisFacebook @stacyenniscreativeLinkedInYouTube @stacyennisauthor To submit a question, email hello@stacyennis.com or join my email list http://stacyennis.com/join and fill out the form on the page.

    265. Replay | 3 Rules to Turn Your Big Idea into a Best-Selling Book

  5. Aug 13

    264. Replay | How long does it take to write and publish a nonfiction book?

    This week's episode is part of a series of replays while I'm on vacation (or "holiday," as they say in Europe!). Rita and I pulled together some of our favorites—and yours—to share while I'm away. With over 250 episodes to choose from, there's a good chance you haven't heard this one, and if you have, maybe it's just the reminder you need this week. Enjoy, and I'll be back with you before you know it! In this episode, I’m walking you through a realistic book publishing timeline—from first idea to finished book launch. Whether you’re planning to self-publish or go hybrid, this guide will help you understand what takes how long, what tasks overlap, and how to create a schedule that fits your life. Here’s what we’ll cover: How long writing the first draft actually takesWhat editing involves and how to plan for itAll the moving pieces in the publishing processWhat your launch timeline should really look likeWhy rushing rarely leads to great resultsAnd two timeline options to help you plan your own path: a 12-month sprint or an 18-month steady marathon.🔗 Get the full blog post + timeline breakdown here. Resources: 📘 ⁠Download my free 10 Things You Should Know Before Writing a Nonfiction Book⁠ Follow me on: Instagram @stacyennisFacebook @stacyenniscreativeLinkedInYouTube @stacyennisauthorTo submit a question, email hello@stacyennis.com or join my email list http://stacyennis.com/join and fill out the form on the page.

    264. Replay | How long does it take to write and publish a nonfiction book?

  6. Aug 6

    263. Replay | Am I cut out to write a book?

    This week's episode is part of a series of replays while I'm on vacation (or "holiday," as they say in Europe!). Rita and I pulled together some of our favorites—and yours—to share while I'm away. With over 250 episodes to choose from, there's a good chance you haven't heard this one, and if you have, maybe it's just the reminder you need this week. Enjoy, and I'll be back with you before you know it! Are you staring at that blank page wondering if you’re really cut out to write a book? I'm a bestselling author, book coach, and someone who used to wrestle with those exact doubts. What if I told you that writing a book isn’t reserved for experts, perfectionists, or people who “already know it all”? It’s a learnable skill. And yes, you can absolutely do this. In this episode, I’ll walk you through: 👉 Why feeling “not enough” is totally normal 👉 How consistency and mindset win over “talent” any day If you’ve been holding back because you’re not sure you’re “qualified enough,” or because fear keeps showing up—this is your sign to move forward. Your story, your message, your voice matters more than you realize. 🔗 Get the full blog post here. 📘 ⁠Download my free 10 Things You Should Know Before Writing a Nonfiction Book⁠. Follow me on: Instagram @stacyennisFacebook @stacyenniscreativeLinkedInYouTube @stacyennisauthorTo submit a question, email hello@stacyennis.com or join my email list http://stacyennis.com/join and fill out the form on the page.

    263. Replay | Am I cut out to write a book?

  7. Jul 23

    262. The author’s guide to a brand photoshoot

    Your brand matters—because it’s how you show up for your clients, the spaces you want to be in, the people you want to be with. Quality photos are an asset for your business, especially if it’s an online business, because they are creating a perception of your brand. By keeping your headshots and photos updated, you’re making an active decision to take control of your narrative. Today’s episode features my personal experience of preparing for and initiating a photoshoot for my brand. Rita Domingues, our amazing head of marketing, joins me to talk about the process so you can have a successful experience (and even avoid a mistake I made!). Rita and I get into the useful, practical steps of what’s involved: the timeline, where to use the photos (hint: your media kit), budget, and team collaboration. We even discuss what to look for in choosing a photographer. There are many conversations to have and details to consider, and we walk you through each step as you consider how to up-level your brand through quality photos. If you’re looking to improve your brand’s perception, this episode is a must! Brand Photo Shoot Strategy: Updated photos reflect personal growth, brand maturity, and location-based lifestyle, replacing 7-year-old images for marketing use.Photographer Selection: Chose a local professional with aligned vision via discovery calls, ensuring flexibility and creative collaboration during the shoot.Photo Shoot Execution: Nearly 230 images over 3.5 hours captured varied styles, using multiple locations and professional styling to support brand storytelling.Budget & Resources: Total cost about $1,500 covering photography, hair, makeup, and outfits; flexible budgeting advised based on business stage.Marketing Integration: Large image library enables multi-platform use, enhancing visual storytelling and readiness for media opportunities.Team Collaboration: Key roles included planner/assistant managing logistics remotely, photographer bringing creative expertise, and day-of support boosting morale.Follow me on: Instagram @stacyennisFacebook @stacyenniscreativeLinkedInYouTube @stacyennisauthorTo submit a question, email hello@stacyennis.com or join my email list http://stacyennis.com/join and fill out the form on the page.

    262. The author’s guide to a brand photoshoot

  8. Jul 15

    261. The business of being a writer, with Jane Friedman

    Many of you dream of making a living as a writer. Well, today’s episode features just the guest you need to learn from. Jane Friedman has spent many years in the publishing industry and knows a thing or two about what it takes to build a solid business of being a writer. Jane shares from her wealth of experience, and we get to talk shop about what it means to be emotionally resilient and set realistic expectations. We also discuss the nitty-gritty details of how to establish your writing business, like balancing income streams, integrating art, and avoiding the rabbit hole of social media toxicity. Jane has spent nearly 25 years working in the book publishing industry, with a focus on author education and trend reporting. She is the editor of The Bottom Line, the essential publishing industry newsletter for authors, and her latest book is The Business of Being a Writer, Second Edition (University of Chicago Press), which received a starred review from Library Journal. If you’ve thought about pursuing a career as a writer, this episode covers the essentials for success. Listen in now! Get to know Jane: WebsiteInstagram @janefriedmanFacebook @janefriedmanJoin the free newsletter, Electric SpeedBook recommendation:  How to Say Goodbye, by Wendy MacNaughtonFollow me on: Instagram @stacyennisFacebook @stacyenniscreativeLinkedInYouTube @stacyennisauthorTo submit a question, email hello@stacyennis.com or join my http://stacyennis.com/join and fill out the form on the page.

    261. The business of being a writer, with Jane Friedman
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4.9
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About

Beyond Better is a podcast that explores a simple but profound idea: we all deserve to live lives that are not just better—but beyond better. I’m Stacy Ennis, an author, mom of two, and long-time location independent entrepreneur living in Portugal. Join me as I talk business, location independence, writing, travel, and so much more, all focused on building a life that is beyond better.

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