Do you tell yourself you just need more time, more motivation, or more willpower? In this episode of Authors’ Allies, Rebecca sits down with success and personal growth coach Stacy Baxley, creator of INTENTIONAL, a simple framework that helps busy women stop living in survival mode and start designing their days with purpose.

Stacy shares how her 25 years in career development shaped the tools she now teaches women—clarity, confidence, goal-setting, decision-making, self-awareness, and follow-through—using 5–10 minute daily practices that actually stick.

You’ll hear how to choose a “word of the day,” identify your MVPs (Most Valuable Priorities), reframe negative thoughts, and create momentum without burnout… even if your calendar is already a trash fire. 😂📝✨

In this episode, we cover:

00:54 The Importance of Personal Connection in Coaching

01:00 Stacy's Journey to Empower Women

01:55 Designing Your Day with Purpose

06:14 The Concept of a Word of the Day

08:27 Overcoming Overwhelm with Small Habits

11:38 Breaking Down Goals into Manageable Steps

13:47 Tracking Progress and Reflection

15:10 Celebrating Small Wins

16:32 The Limitations of Vision Boards

17:56 Finding What Works for You

19:54 The Importance of Accountability

20:57 Habit Stacking for Success

24:59 Prioritizing Tasks Effectively

30:12 Creative Energy for Authors

32:26 Taking Baby Steps Towards Goals

33:33 Where to Find More Tips and Resources

RESOURCES:

➡️ Grab Stacy’s Note Card Guide + program info:

https://stacy-baxley-healthy-habits-inside-ou.aweb.page/p/0c54c1aa-b26d-4cd0-af69-275cb1a83935

Stacy’s Journal on Amazon: https://amzn.to/45V6jwz

You might also consider

Eat That Frog https://amzn.to/4pOpu2f

Atomic Habits https://amzn.to/49PBeLX

And, if you’d like my class on finding your best energy times: https://payhip.com/b/t0nhG

Join the Authors’ Allies RoundTable, where indie authors brainstorm, collaborate, and make book marketing fun. Authors’ Allies⁠ RoundTable⁠ can be found on our ⁠website.⁠ ⁠https://www.bluedotdigitalmarketing.com/⁠

Ebook: Did you download your copy of 10 Steps to Your Ultimate Book Marketing Plan ebook yet? You can get that⁠ ⁠HERE.⁠⁠ ⁠https://mailchi.mp/15e024a36fd4/marketingplanebook⁠

📧 Email us: info@authorsallies.com ⁠⁠

Follow us on the⁠⁠ social media platform of your choice for more tips and tricks.

😀📘 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BlueDotCommunications/

📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/blue_dot_digital/

🔗 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rebeccapaciorek

Would you like to apply to be a guest on the show? Go here to fill out the application. https://forms.gle/p7aNuDbLd49t1EPz5

Please LIKE, SUBSCRIBE, and SHARE. I often recommend products and services that I use or that have been recommended to me by people we trust. I only suggest items that I have personally used and love. In many cases an affiliate link accompanies these recommendations, (including Amazon -except for my products which are mine and not affiliate links) which provides me with a referral commission should you click through and make a purchase. This is always at no additional cost to you.

#authorsallies #indieauthor #selfpublishing #authorsallies #habits #habitstacking

Want more visibility without living on social media? Podcast guesting is one of the fastest ways for authors to grow an audience, build trust, and increase book sales… by borrowing other people’s audiences. 📚💫

In this episode, Rebecca breaks down how to find the right podcasts, how to get chosen as a guest (without landing in File 13 🗑️😂), and how to show up like a pro so you get invited back again and again.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Podcast Guesting

01:01 Finding the Right Podcasts

03:53 Getting Chosen as a Guest

06:11 Preparing for Your Podcast Appearance

09:59 Recording and Promoting Your Episode

11:25 Action Plan for Podcast Guesting

Quick Action Plan

Make a list of 10 dream podcasts
Listen to 2 episodes each + read the show notes
Prep your assets folder (bio, photos, links, freebie)
Apply consistently—start with one per week
Promote every episode like you mean it

Resources:

Podmatch for getting hooked up with podcasters. https://joinpodmatch.com/rpaciorek

Monitor clip for filtering glare on glasses: https://amzn.to/45LuWM5

Our blog about podcast guesting.https://www.bluedotdigitalmarketing.com/post/why-authors-should-get-on-podcasts

Join the RoundTable: Want help planning your next magical marketing move? Join the Authors’ Allies RoundTable, where indie authors brainstorm, collaborate, and make book marketing fun again. Authors’ Allies⁠ RoundTable⁠ can be found on our ⁠website.⁠ ⁠https://www.bluedotdigitalmarketing.com/⁠

Ebook: Did you download your copy of 10 Steps to Your Ultimate Book Marketing Plan ebook yet? You can get that⁠ ⁠HERE.⁠⁠ ⁠https://mailchi.mp/15e024a36fd4/marketingplanebook⁠

📧 Email us: info@authorsallies.com ⁠⁠ Follow us on the⁠⁠ social media platform of your choice for more tips and tricks.

😀📘 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BlueDotCommunications/

📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/blue_dot_digital/

🔗 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rebeccapaciorek

Would you like to apply to be a guest on the show? Go here to fill out the application. https://forms.gle/p7aNuDbLd49t1EPz5

Please LIKE, SUBSCRIBE, and SHARE. I often recommend products and services that I use or that have been recommended to me by people we trust. I only suggest items that I have personally used and love. In many cases an affiliate link accompanies these recommendations, (including Amazon -except for my products which are mine and not affiliate links) which provides me with a referral commission should you click through and make a purchase. This is always at no additional cost to you. #author #indieauthor #selfpublishing #authorsallies

In this episode of the Authors Allies podcast, Rebecca Hallbach Paciorek discusses effective annual planning and goal setting for authors. She emphasizes the importance of finding a planning tool that works for the individual, whether it be a vision board, bingo board, or a word of the year. The conversation covers the significance of reflecting on the past year, experimenting with different planning styles, and creating a loose plan to achieve writing goals. Ultimately, the episode encourages authors to embrace flexibility and creativity in their planning process.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Annual Planning for Authors

02:04 Understanding Different Planning Styles

03:39 Reflecting on the Past Year

04:35 Creating Vision Boards and Bingo Boards

06:56 Choosing a Word of the Year

08:20 Converting Dreams into a Loose Plan

10:16 Finding the Right Tools for You

12:09 Final Thoughts and Next Steps

Get the notes/worksheets HERE.

Follow Stacy Baxley, coming guest, HERE.

Join the RoundTable: Want help planning your next magical marketing move? Join the Authors’ Allies RoundTable, where indie authors brainstorm, collaborate, and make book marketing fun again. Authors’ Allies⁠ RoundTable⁠ can be found on our ⁠website.⁠ https://www.bluedotdigitalmarketing.com/Ebook: Did you download your copy of 10 Steps to Your Ultimate Book Marketing Plan ebook yet? You can get that⁠ ⁠HERE.⁠⁠ https://mailchi.mp/15e024a36fd4/marketingplanebook📧 Email us: info@authorsallies.com⁠⁠Follow us on the⁠⁠ social media platform of your choice for more tips and tricks.

😀📘 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BlueDotCommunications/📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/blue_dot_digital/🔗 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rebeccapaciorek Would you like to apply to be a guest on the show? Go here to fill out the application. https://forms.gle/p7aNuDbLd49t1EPz5Please LIKE, SUBSCRIBE, and SHARE.I often recommend products and services that I use or that have been recommended to me by people we trust. I only suggest items that I have personally used and love. In many cases an affiliate link accompanies these recommendations, (including Amazon -except for my products which are mine and not affiliate links) which provides me with a referral commission should you click through and make a purchase. This is always at no additional cost to you. #author #indieauthor #selfpublishing #authorsallies

In this episode of Authors Allies, Rebecca Paciorek discusses the evolving landscape of book marketing for 2026. She emphasizes the importance of authors transitioning from merely launching books to establishing themselves as media brands.

Key predictions include the rise of direct sales, the significance of newsletters, the emergence of micro communities, and the integration of AI as a marketing co-pilot. Rebecca also provides actionable steps for authors to implement these strategies effectively, highlighting the need for a strategic approach to building an author ecosystem.

Takeaways

• 2026 is the year that authors fully behave like media brands.
• Direct sales and book extra bundles will be where the real money is.
• Micro communities are going to beat that broad reach.
• AI is going to become your marketing co-pilot.
• Video first podcasts can become evergreen discovery machines.
• Hybrid launches are becoming the norm.

Join the RoundTable: Want help planning your next magical marketing move? Join the Authors’ Allies RoundTable, where indie authors brainstorm, collaborate, and make book marketing fun again. Authors’ Allies⁠ RoundTable⁠ can be found on our ⁠website.⁠ https://www.bluedotdigitalmarketing.com/

Ebook: Did you download your copy of 10 Steps to Your Ultimate Book Marketing Plan ebook yet? You can get that⁠ ⁠HERE.⁠⁠ https://mailchi.mp/15e024a36fd4/marketingplanebook

📧 Email us: info@authorsallies.com

⁠⁠

Follow us on the⁠⁠ social media platform of your choice for more tips and tricks.

😀📘 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BlueDotCommunications/

📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/blue_dot_digital/

🔗 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rebeccapaciorek

Would you like to apply to be a guest on the show? Go here to fill out the application. https://forms.gle/p7aNuDbLd49t1EPz5

Please LIKE, SUBSCRIBE, and SHARE.

I often recommend products and services that I use or that have been recommended to me by people we trust. I only suggest items that I have personally used and love. In many cases an affiliate link accompanies these recommendations, (including Amazon -except for my products which are mine and not affiliate links) which provides me with a referral commission should you click through and make a purchase. This is always at no additional cost to you.

#author #indieauthor #selfpublishing #authorsallies

In this episode of the Authors Allies podcast, Rebecca Hallbach Paciorek introduces the 'Ink and Intention' initiative, designed to help indie authors prepare for a successful 2026. The conversation covers 12 days of actionable steps that focus on setting intentions, strategizing marketing efforts, building an author platform, and fostering community support. Each day offers practical advice to reconnect with one's writing purpose and enhance visibility in the literary world.

Takeaways

• Reconnect with your inner voice and vision for writing.

• Set intentions for your writing journey in 2026.

• Plan your promotions around your energy and health.

• Update your author bio and media kit for better outreach.

• Revive your email list for consistent engagement.

• Choose one social media platform to focus on.

• Schedule local events for authentic connections.

• Join a supportive community of fellow authors.

• Progress over perfection: take it one step at a time.

• Utilize the 12 days of Ink and Intention for clarity and focus.

Get a printout of the 12 Days checklist HERE.

Join the RoundTable: Want help planning your next magical marketing move? Join the Authors’ Allies RoundTable, where indie authors brainstorm, collaborate, and make book marketing fun again. Authors’ Allies⁠ RoundTable⁠ can be found on our ⁠website.⁠ https://www.bluedotdigitalmarketing.com/

Ebook: Did you download your copy of 10 Steps to Your Ultimate Book Marketing Plan ebook yet? You can get that⁠ ⁠HERE.⁠⁠ https://mailchi.mp/15e024a36fd4/marketingplanebook

📧 Email us: info@authorsallies.com

⁠⁠

Follow us on the⁠⁠ social media platform of your choice for more tips and tricks.

😀📘 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BlueDotCommunications/

📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/blue_dot_digital/

🔗 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rebeccapaciorek

Would you like to apply to be a guest on the show? Go here to fill out the application. https://forms.gle/p7aNuDbLd49t1EPz5

Please LIKE, SUBSCRIBE, and SHARE.

I often recommend products and services that I use or that have been recommended to me by people we trust. I only suggest items that I have personally used and love. In many cases an affiliate link accompanies these recommendations, (including Amazon -except for my products which are mine and not affiliate links) which provides me with a referral commission should you click through and make a purchase. This is always at no additional cost to you.

#author #indieauthor #selfpublishing #authorsallies

In this episode of the Authors Allies podcast, Rebecca discusses how to prepare for a virtual writing retreat. She emphasizes the importance of clarity in goals, preparation of technology, and creating a conducive writing environment. The episode provides a checklist of ten essential steps to ensure a productive retreat, including setting boundaries, managing energy levels, and establishing writing rituals. Rebecca also offers resources for listeners to enhance their retreat experience.

Takeaways

• You need to show up knowing what you're working on.

• Pick one clear outcome to avoid decision fatigue.

• Confirm all tech and tools before the retreat.

• Designate a physical space for writing.

• Communicate your retreat schedule to those at home.

• Set realistic energy goals based on your current situation.

• Incorporate small rituals to signal writing time.

• Prepare your mindset to avoid comparison and perfectionism.

• Pack a go bag with all necessary materials.

Request a digital checklist for retreat preparation HERE.

Arden Coutts' Writing Retreats: https://www.ardencoutts.com/virtual-writing-retreats

Join the RoundTable: Want help planning your next magical marketing move? Join the Authors’ Allies RoundTable, where indie authors brainstorm, collaborate, and make book marketing fun again. Authors’ Allies⁠ RoundTable⁠ can be found on our ⁠website.⁠ https://www.bluedotdigitalmarketing.com/

Ebook: Did you download your copy of 10 Steps to Your Ultimate Book Marketing Plan ebook yet? You can get that⁠ ⁠HERE.⁠⁠ https://mailchi.mp/15e024a36fd4/marketingplanebook

📧 Email us: info@authorsallies.com

⁠⁠

Follow us on the⁠⁠ social media platform of your choice for more tips and tricks.

😀📘 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BlueDotCommunications/

📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/blue_dot_digital/

🔗 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rebeccapaciorek

Would you like to apply to be a guest on the show? Go here to fill out the application. https://forms.gle/p7aNuDbLd49t1EPz5

Please LIKE, SUBSCRIBE, and SHARE.

I often recommend products and services that I use or that have been recommended to me by people we trust. I only suggest items that I have personally used and love. In many cases an affiliate link accompanies these recommendations, (including Amazon -except for my products which are mine and not affiliate links) which provides me with a referral commission should you click through and make a purchase. This is always at no additional cost to you.

In this short conversation, Rebecca Paciorek discusses the dual role of authors as entrepreneurs, emphasizing the importance of marketing in the writing profession. She highlights that authors must adopt an entrepreneurial mindset and actively engage in marketing their work to achieve success.

Takeaways

• You wear a lot of hats as an entrepreneur.
• You can't just write a book, put it on Amazon and think people will just show up and buy it.
• Marketing is a crucial aspect of being an author.
• Understanding your audience is key to effective marketing.
• Building an online presence is essential for authors.
• Engaging with readers can enhance book sales.
• Authors should view themselves as business owners.

Chapters

00:00 The Role of Authors as Entrepreneurs

00:35 Delegating Responsibilities in Entrepreneurship

Join the RoundTable: Want help planning your next magical marketing move? Join the Authors’ Allies RoundTable, where indie authors brainstorm, collaborate, and make book marketing fun again. Authors’ Allies⁠ RoundTable⁠ can be found on our ⁠website.⁠ https://www.bluedotdigitalmarketing.com/

Ebook: Did you download your copy of 10 Steps to Your Ultimate Book Marketing Plan ebook yet? You can get that⁠ ⁠HERE.⁠⁠ https://mailchi.mp/15e024a36fd4/marketingplanebook

📧 Email us: info@authorsallies.com

⁠⁠

Follow us on the⁠⁠ social media platform of your choice for more tips and tricks.

😀📘 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BlueDotCommunications/

📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/blue_dot_digital/

🔗 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rebeccapaciorek

Would you like to apply to be a guest on the show? Go here to fill out the application. https://forms.gle/p7aNuDbLd49t1EPz5

Please LIKE, SUBSCRIBE, and SHARE.

I often recommend products and services that I use or that have been recommended to me by people we trust. I only suggest items that I have personally used and love. In many cases an affiliate link accompanies these recommendations, (including Amazon -except for my products which are mine and not affiliate links) which provides me with a referral commission should you click through and make a purchase. This is always at no additional cost to you.

#author #indieauthor #selfpublishing #authorsallies

🎧 Book Bites: Passive Income Isn’t Passive — Let’s Be Real About That

In this quick coffee chat, Rebecca unpacks what “passive income” really means for authors and entrepreneurs. 💰 Spoiler: it’s not as hands-off as people make it sound!

You’ll learn:
☕ Why your reason for wanting passive income matters
📚 The difference between passive and evergreen income
💡 How to decide if it’s time to add a new income stream—or boost the ones you already have

Grab your mug and tune in for a little clarity (and a lot of honesty).

Join the RoundTable: Want help planning your next magical marketing move? Join the Authors’ Allies RoundTable, where indie authors brainstorm, collaborate, and make book marketing fun again. Authors’ Allies⁠ RoundTable⁠ can be found on our ⁠website.⁠ https://www.bluedotdigitalmarketing.com/

Ebook: Did you download your copy of 10 Steps to Your Ultimate Book Marketing Plan ebook yet? You can get that⁠ ⁠HERE.⁠⁠ https://mailchi.mp/15e024a36fd4/marketingplanebook

📧 Email us: info@authorsallies.com

⁠⁠

Follow us on the⁠⁠ social media platform of your choice for more tips and tricks.

😀📘 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BlueDotCommunications/

📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/blue_dot_digital/

🔗 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rebeccapaciorek

Would you like to apply to be a guest on the show? Go here to fill out the application. https://forms.gle/p7aNuDbLd49t1EPz5

Please LIKE, SUBSCRIBE, and SHARE.

I often recommend products and services that I use or that have been recommended to me by people we trust. I only suggest items that I have personally used and love. In many cases an affiliate link accompanies these recommendations, (including Amazon -except for my products which are mine and not affiliate links) which provides me with a referral commission should you click through and make a purchase. This is always at no additional cost to you.

#author #indieauthor #selfpublishing #authorsallies

#PassiveIncome #AuthorBusiness