In this riveting episode of Thought Leadership Leverage with host
Peter Winick, we dive into the world of non-fiction with Phil Simon, a multifaceted writer, ghostwriter, speaker, and podcaster. Phil shares his journey from a college professor in business information systems to becoming a prolific author and the founder of a hybrid publishing company. He explains his dual role as both a creator and coach, helping others craft their books and platforms while avoiding common pitfalls.

Phil recounts his transition into writing in 2008, which ignited his passion for the craft and led to the establishment of his own publishing company. His unique perspective as an author, ghostwriter, and publisher enables him to guide others effectively. He emphasizes the importance of finding the right fit with clients, setting clear expectations, and ensuring that the client's voice shines through while adhering to effective business writing principles.

Discussing the ghostwriting process, Phil highlights the critical need for compatibility and clear communication with clients. He shares insights into the evolving publishing landscape, noting the rise of hybrid publishing as a cost-effective and rewarding alternative to traditional publishers. Authors now have more control and potential for higher rewards, balancing the risks with substantial marketing and support efforts.

Phil also delves into his personal intellectual property, which he
proudly owns under "Racket Publishing." This ownership allows him to explore various avenues, such as international translations and teachable courses, without intermediary restrictions. He discusses innovative business models that leverage the credibility of a published book, including bespoke versions for corporate clients, custom training, and webinars.

Phil's experience underscores the chaotic yet rewarding nature of
thought leadership and publishing. His advice for aspiring authors and thought leaders is to embrace the non-linear path to success and capitalize on the multifaceted opportunities a book can provide.

Three Key Takeaways:

• Embrace Hybrid Publishing: Phil Simon emphasizes the advantages of hybrid publishing over traditional routes. This model offers authors more control, potential for higher rewards, and flexibility, while still maintaining professional quality. Hybrid publishing allows authors to manage costs and directly benefit from their work.

• Find the Right Fit in Ghostwriting: The importance of compatibility and clear expectations in ghostwriting is crucial. Successful partnerships hinge on mutual understanding and clear communication, ensuring the final product resonates with the intended audience and meets client expectations.

• Leverage Your Book for Broader Opportunities: Owning your
intellectual property opens up diverse monetization avenues. Phil
discusses how a book can elevate your brand, allowing for additional revenue streams through custom training, webinars, and bespoke book versions for corporate clients. Embracing these opportunities can significantly enhance your thought leadership platform.

If you want to learn more about the Changing Landscape of Publishing be sure to check out this video by Peter Winick.

In this engaging episode of Thought Leadership Leverage, host Peter Winick interviews Renee Moorefield, a pioneering leader in human-centered leadership for over 25 years. Renee, the CEO and co-founder of Wisdom Works Group, has been instrumental in transforming how leaders build thriving organizations. Wisdom Works offers innovative resources and guidance to create workplaces and leadership practices that foster well-being and success.

Renee discusses the development of her intellectual property (IP). Her extensive experience in global companies highlighted a critical need: leaders often overlook human factors while focusing on financial and technical performance. Observing this trend, she brought her insights to the University of Colorado’s business school, aiming to scientifically explore the factors that contribute to thriving and stress resilience in leadership. This led to the creation of the "Framework of Thriving" under the "Be Well, Lead Well Pulse Assessment" platform. This framework redefines what it means to thrive, helping leaders understand the essential elements for success in complex environments.

Wisdom Works is now scaling its impact by working with global organizations, especially in the food and consumer goods industries. They conduct one-on-one sessions, team workshops, and organization-wide assessments to identify areas of high and low thriving. This holistic approach introduces new metrics for measuring organizational success and fosters meaningful conversations about well-being.

Additionally, Renee’s team certifies individuals in various industries to implement their tools, creating a network of approximately 225 certified Guides. Peter and Renee discuss the differences between internal and external certified guides, highlighting the unique challenges and benefits of each approach. The COVID-19 pandemic underscored the value of their tools, increasing demand for internal coaches equipped to navigate stressful times.

Ensuring the quality and consistency of their certified guides is paramount for Renee. The program sets clear expectations for knowledge, skills, and abilities, relying on an honor system for self-assessment and continuous feedback. With a 94% return on investment rate, the program’s effectiveness is evident, consistently meeting participants' needs and enhancing their capabilities.


Three Key Takeaways:

• Human-Centered Leadership is Essential: Renee Moorefield emphasizes the importance of focusing on human factors in leadership, highlighting how financial and technical performance often overshadow the well-being of people and organizational culture. Leaders need to prioritize creating thriving, sustainable environments.

• Scalable, Science-Based Frameworks: The "Framework of Thriving" and the "Be Well, Lead Well Pulse Assessment" offer a scientifically grounded approach to understanding and fostering leadership that promotes resilience and thriving. This framework helps organizations identify areas of high and low thriving, driving better performance and well-being.

• Certified Guides Enhance Impact: Certifying individuals in various industries to use Wisdom Works' tools has expanded their reach and effectiveness. With approximately 225 certified guides, the program ensures consistent quality and effectiveness, as demonstrated by a 94% return on investment rate, meeting the evolving needs of leaders and organizations.

Want to learn more about customized training? Be sure to watch this short video where Peter Winick discusses How much customization is needed while developing training.

In this episode of Thought Leadership Leverage, host Peter Winick sits down with Elizabeth Lotardo, author of "Leading Yourself: Find More Joy, Meaning, and Opportunities in the Job You Already Have," to explore her journey into thought leadership. Elizabeth, a consultant, Harvard Business Review contributor, and LinkedIn Learning instructor, shares her inspiring story and insights.

Elizabeth's journey into thought leadership began with a powerful act of defiance. After quitting her job at an ad agency due to a toxic culture and lack of opportunity, she penned a raw and passionate article titled "Why Millennials Keep Dumping You. An Open Letter to Management." This article went viral, resonating deeply with professionals who felt unheard and undervalued. Elizabeth and Peter delve into the nature of viral content and the power of authentic, heartfelt writing.

Going viral brought both support and criticism. Elizabeth discusses the mixed reactions and how she managed the rough comments alongside the positive feedback. This experience led her to write more on engagement from a Millennial perspective, eventually leading to her involvement with LinkedIn Learning.

Transitioning from writing articles to creating courses for LinkedIn Learning was a new challenge for Elizabeth. She shares how LinkedIn helped her transform her engaging writing style into actionable, educational content. The key was to maintain authenticity while adapting to the platform’s demands, focusing on engagement and retention.

Elizabeth’s upcoming book, "Leading Yourself," is set to release in Fall 2024. It addresses how to find joy, meaning, and opportunity in less-than-perfect jobs. Drawing from her decade-long consulting experience, Elizabeth highlights how mindset, behaviors, and relationships can transform one’s work experience. Inspired by the success of her LinkedIn course during the COVID-19 pandemic, she realized the growing need for this topic.

In addition to her book, Elizabeth is developing a video version and corresponding training programs. These resources aim to help organizations instill the mindsets discussed in her book, empowering employees to create positive changes in their work environments.

Three Key Takeaways:

• Elizabeth's viral article, "Why Millennials Keep Dumping You," succeeded because of its genuine, passionate approach. Authenticity in thought leadership can resonate deeply with audiences and drive engagement.

• Transitioning from writing articles to creating courses for LinkedIn Learning required Elizabeth to adapt her writing style while maintaining authenticity. Thought leaders must recognize and play to the strengths of each medium they engage with.

• Elizabeth's upcoming book, "Leading Yourself," emphasizes the importance of mindset in finding joy, meaning, and opportunity in one's job. A positive mindset can empower individuals to thrive in less-than-perfect work environments.

If you are interested in additional LinkedIn Learning courses be sure to check out the content from Leveraging Thought Leadership.

In this episode of the Thought Leadership Leverage podcast, host Bill Sherman sits down with Phil Geldart, CEO of Eagle's Flight, to discuss his innovative approach to leadership and learning. With his upcoming book, "Leading What Matters Most: A Business Parable on Unlocking Human Potential," set to release later in 2024, Geldart shares insights from his transformative career.

In this compelling episode of Thought Leadership Leverage, host Peter Winick dives deep with Matt Hullander, a versatile entrepreneur from Chattanooga, Tennessee. Hullander, who has ventured into real estate development, e-commerce, private equity, recently authored the inspiring book "The Daily Climb: 10 Principles to Change Your Life." Today, he shares his transformative journey from business mogul to author.

After selling his successful home improvement company in 2021, Hullander faced a life-altering cancer scare. This experience shifted his perspective, prompting him to reflect on his purpose. At 50, he felt compelled to share his life lessons and stories to benefit others. Proceeds from his book, "The Daily Climb," support teenage suicide prevention (The Jason Foundation), demonstrating his commitment to making a difference.

Hullander’s book challenges traditional goal-setting paradigms, advocating for a vision-driven approach. He emphasizes building habits that align with the life you want, rather than merely setting goals. Other principles include the importance of finding a guide, akin to his fly-fishing mentor, and the value of surrounding oneself with a supportive tribe.

Writing the "The Daily Climb" has created unexpected opportunities, opening new doors for Hullander, expanding his network beyond Tennessee and into various industries. The book has also led to speaking engagements, enhancing his credibility and setting him apart in his field.

Hullander encourages aspiring authors to leverage hybrid and self-publishing models. He highlights the importance of seeking guidance, sharing how his publisher, Foresight Publishers, helped him shape his book’s content and design. His message is clear: with the right support, anyone can bring their book to life.

Three Key Takeaways:

• Embrace Life's Challenges as Opportunities: Matt Hullander's cancer scare transformed his outlook, leading him to share his experiences and insights through his book, "The Daily Climb." This illustrates the importance of turning personal challenges into opportunities for growth and contribution.

• Vision Over Goals: Hullander advocates for a vision-driven approach rather than traditional goal-setting. By focusing on the habits and lifestyle that align with your envisioned future, you can create lasting change and achieve a more fulfilling life.

• Seek Guidance and Build a Supportive Tribe: Hullander emphasizes the value of having mentors and a supportive community. Whether through a life coach, business guide, or peer groups, surrounding yourself with knowledgeable and supportive individuals can significantly enhance your success and personal growth.

If you have a vision for your business, then you'll want to check out this article How Are You Applying Your Vision by Thought Leadership Leverage Founder and CEO Peter Winick.

In this episode of Thought Leadership Leverage, host Bill Sherman sits down with Clemence Sop, the Head of Marketing Innovation at InterSystems, for an insightful discussion on marketing high-ticket items, leveraging digital platforms, and the power of thought leadership.

Clemence shares her fascinating journey from yacht sales to marketing innovation, highlighting the complexity and strategy involved in selling luxury items. She delves into the concept of a cultivation strategist, emphasizing the importance of digital knowledge and social listening to engage potential buyers at the right moment.

Drawing from real-life experiences, Clemence explains how using
LinkedIn and celebrity brand ambassadors can build trust and nurture relationships with high-profile clients. She illustrates how
positioning oneself as a trusted advisor can enhance visibility and
engagement, even with audiences outside the initial target group.

Bill and Clemence explore her career transition from supply chain
engineering to big data and social media, driven by her curiosity
about the future impact of collective intelligence and connection data on human behavior and business.

In her current role, Clemence spearheads innovative marketing
solutions to tackle existing challenges. She narrates a compelling
story about addressing thought leadership needs in Belgium’s
healthcare system through the "One Patient, One Record" initiative. By sharing personal stories and building a community around patient data challenges, InterSystems was able to foster trust and drive meaningful change.

The episode concludes with a discussion on overcoming mental and spam filters in today’s saturated digital landscape. Clemence emphasizes the necessity of targeting a specific audience, creating relevant content, and establishing authentic connections through thought leadership.

Tune in to learn from Clemence Sop’s unique experiences and insights on transforming marketing strategies through innovation and thought leadership.

Three Key Takeaways:

• Strategic Digital Engagement: Clemence Sop emphasizes the importance of leveraging digital knowledge and social listening to effectively engage potential buyers. By cultivating relationships through targeted digital networking and positioning oneself as a trusted advisor, brands can enhance their visibility and build trust with high-profile clients.

• The Power of Personal Stories in Thought Leadership: The "One Patient, One Record" initiative showcases the effectiveness of using personal stories to address pain points and build a community. By sharing authentic experiences and focusing on the emotional aspects of patient data challenges, InterSystems was able to establish trust and drive meaningful conversations in the healthcare sector.

• Navigating Content Saturation: In a world overwhelmed with digital content, it is crucial to target specific audiences with relevant and purposeful content. Clemence highlights the need for authenticity and relevance in thought leadership, ensuring that content not only reaches but resonates with the intended audience, thereby overcoming mental and spam filters.

If you want to learn more about thought leadership marketing check out this article Decoding Thought Leadership Marketing: A Blueprint for Success by Thought Leadership Leverage Founder and CEO Peter Winick.

In this episode of Leveraging Thought Leadership, host Bill Sherman engages with Steve Wunker, Managing Director of New Market Advisors and co-author of the groundbreaking book The Innovative Leader: Step-By-Step Lessons from Top Innovators For You and Your Organization. Join them as they delve into the intricacies of fostering innovation within organizations and cultivating innovative leadership.

Steve Wunker shares the core essence of The Innovative Leader,
emphasizing its focus on the practical "how" of innovation. Drawing from interviews with 50 top innovative leaders and two decades of professional experience, the book provides actionable insights for individuals and organizations aiming to embrace innovation effectively.

Delving into the genesis of the book, Wunker explains the rationale behind merging leadership and innovation, bridging a crucial gap in existing literature. He recounts his journey collaborating with luminaries like Clayton Christensen and Fred Reichheld, emphasizing the transformative power of distilling complex concepts into compelling narratives.

The Innovative Leader isn't just another book; it's a culmination of
rigorous research and inductive conversations aimed at demystifying innovation. Wunker sheds light on the book's data-driven approach, underscored by the belief that innovation is fundamentally about systems rather than sporadic bursts of inspiration.

As they explore the strategies for book promotion, Wunker emphasizes the importance of striking a balance between broad outreach and deep engagement. From social media blitzes to keynote speeches and immersive articles, the book's marketing campaign is meticulously crafted to resonate with diverse audiences.

Looking ahead, Wunker envisions The Innovative Leader as a seminal work shaping the landscape of innovative leadership for years to come. With aspirations for it to become a staple on the shelves of aspiring and seasoned leaders alike, Wunker underscores the importance of continuous engagement and dissemination across various platforms.

Tune in to this episode for invaluable insights into building a
culture of innovation and unlocking the potential of leadership in
driving meaningful change within organizations.

Three Key Takeaways:

• Innovation is Systematic: The episode emphasizes that innovation isn't merely a stroke of luck or genius but a systematic process. By understanding and implementing effective systems, individuals and organizations can foster a culture of innovation and sustain it over time.

• Practical Actionability: The Innovative Leader stands out for its
emphasis on practicality and actionability. It fills the gap in
existing literature by providing step-by-step guidance for leaders and managers who aspire to drive innovation within their organizations, offering tangible strategies derived from real-world experiences.

• Comprehensive Marketing Strategy: Wunker highlights the significance of a comprehensive marketing strategy for launching a book successfully. By combining broad outreach through platforms like social media with deep engagement via keynote speeches, articles, and podcasts, authors can maximize their book's impact and ensure its longevity in the market.

If you want to learn more about balancing Innovation and Integration be sure to check out this article by Thought Leadership Leverage founder and CEO Peter Winick.