In today’s episode, host Jenn Foster is joined by Mark Willis, a three-time international best-selling author and certified financial planner, all the way from Chicago. Mark dives into his journey of writing and publishing books—sharing invaluable tips for first-time authors, from starting with just a chapter alongside a team to collaborating and leveraging marketing power together.Mark’s latest book, “The Business Fortress: How to Grow, Protect, and Exit Your Business with Confidence,” co-authored with David C. Barnett, is designed to help business owners navigate the tricky waters of building and safeguarding their enterprises—while also securing their financial future. He talks about the inspiration behind the book, practical strategies for writing (including the use of voice-to-text and AI for editing), and how repurposing content like podcast episodes can fuel your manuscript.

Welcome back to the Podcast! In today’s episode, host Melanie Johnson sit down with publishing and podcasting expert Paul Colligan. Paul shares his incredible journey from ghostwriting massive technical manuals to independently publishing 14 books, and reveals how that shift transformed his career and opened doors in unexpected ways. You’ll hear valuable insights on the power of combining books, podcasts, and social media to achieve your goals—and why thinking strategically about what you want your book or podcast to do is much more important than obsessing over the technical details.

Paul dives into the realities of both traditional and self-publishing, describing the surprising costs, freedoms, and business opportunities that come with each approach. Plus, he shares practical advice on incorporating meaningful offers into your book, leveraging your content across platforms, and even experimenting with AI and new technology.

In this episode, Rich shares how his circuitous career path—from managing Sherwin Williams stores and steering BYU Hawaii’s finances, to consulting for companies nationwide—shaped his philosophy: it’s not about having all the answers, but about asking the right questions. You’ll hear why he believes coaching is essential for business leaders who want to pause, reflect, and get perspective beyond the daily “whack-a-mole” of challenges.Rich also draws on powerful anecdotes from his own life and Harvard Business School to highlight the importance of staying aligned with your true purpose, adapting your vision as times change, and balancing professional success with personal fulfillment. Whether he’s taking clients canyoneering or questioning boardroom decisions, Rich’s approach is all about being fully present and invested in growth—not just financial, but holistic.

Learn more about Rich here:

https://ceobuilder.com/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/rich-tyson/

https://amzn.to/4ilz0ah