Janelle Villiers: From Shame to Bestseller — How to Write, Publish & Market Your Book

Janelle Villiers is a bestselling author, book writing coach, and publishing company co-founder who helps coaches and entrepreneurs turn their expertise into bestselling books and six-figure brands. She’s the author of “I Slept with a Married Man. Am I Still a Good Person?” and “Write It. Publish It. Sell It,” and has helped dozens of business owners write powerful books that open doors to speaking, media, and high-ticket clients. An Ivy League graduate and former professor, Janelle now runs Janelle Villiers Partnerships and co-founded SayThat Publishing, where she empowers women to release shame and perfectionism and share their stories with confidence and clarity.In this episode, Dante and Janelle discuss:The difference between guilt and shame, and how shame-based thinking can derail relationships and successHow writing a book can become a powerful platform for speaking, influence, and business growthWhy perfectionism is rooted in shame, and how to break free from itWhat truly separates a bestselling book from one that never gains tractionThe marketing realities behind becoming a New York Times bestsellerKey Takeaways: Shame-based thinking says, “I am a mistake,” rather than “I made a mistake.” That belief can fuel self-sabotage, risky behavior, and isolation, but intentional reflection and structured healing can reverse the spiral.A great business book focuses on the reader’s transformation, not the author’s expression. When you identify the key lessons your audience needs, your book becomes a strategic tool instead of just a personal outlet.Perfectionism is not a badge of honor; it is often a shield against fear of judgment. When perfectionism sits in the passenger seat, shame is driving the car, and that mindset can keep you from ever finishing what you start.Writing a book opens doors beyond book sales. Speaking engagements, workshops, podcast interviews, and new business opportunities often generate more revenue and impact than the book itself.Becoming a bestseller has more to do with visibility than vocabulary. Marketing, networking, and building an engaged audience are what truly determine whether a book succeeds commercially. “When perfectionism is in the passenger seat, shame is driving the car.” - Janelle VilliersConnect with Janelle Villiers:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/janelle-villiers-3a1aa644/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/janelle_villie Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@janelle_villie Email: [e-mail] Connect with Dante Royster:Website: https://www.danteroyster.com/Epic Mortgage Website: Epic Mortgage, Inc. NMLS 1885086Facebook: EpicMortgage1885086Epic Mortgage Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/epicmortgage/“The Ultimate Mortgage Guide” book: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CKTRWLRPLinkedIn: Dante Royster | LinkedInTwitter: https://twitter.com/DanteRoysterYouTube: Epic Spotlight Email: [e-mail] The 9 states that Epic Mortgage is licensed are: Illinois/Indiana/Michigan/Colorado/Maryland/Virginia/Florida/Georgia/TexasShow notes by Podcastologist: Francine PobleteAudio production by Turnkey Podcast Productions. You're the expert. Your podcast will prove it.