Episodes

  • Why Self-Help Books Don't Help - with Georgia Holleran
    Feb 17 2025

    Ever wondered why self-help books haven't quite delivered the transformation they promised? Or why, despite consuming endless personal development content, you still find yourself searching for answers? This month’s guest is here to help.

    Georgia Holleran enjoys exploring what life is all about and helping others do the same. With a background in the arts, education and research, she has spent over thirty years exploring the effectiveness of various self-development approaches. Georgia's conclusions of what actually works were published in her book The Last Self-Help Book You'll Ever Need.

    Since its publication, Georgia spends her time supporting others to gain perspective and enjoy life as their own, authentic self. There are free resources always being added to on her website (link below) and she welcomes anyone to sign up to her monthly newsletter, or drop her a line.

    During our fantastic conversation, we talk about:

    • Why Georgia believes there's a "deception" in the self-help industry and what prompted her to write a book challenging it
    • The fascinating triangle theory that explains why knowledge alone isn't enough for personal transformation
    • How understanding your "inner parts" could be the key to breaking through personal blocks
    • The story behind Georgia's intriguing concept of her "14 ladies" and how they've shaped her approach to self-development
    • A powerful perspective on why writing isn't just about the end product, but about the transformation of the writer
    • The surprising reason Georgia believes you need to understand yourself before you can help yourself

    Georgia's refreshing take on personal development challenges conventional wisdom and offers a more nuanced approach to self-understanding. Our conversation offers some brilliant insights into why internal work matters more than external solutions.

    I hope you enjoy listening.

    Connect with Georgia and her book:
    • Book
    • Website
    Further resources from me
    • My book, ‘Dare to Write: How to Write a Nonfiction Book to Grow Your Business,’ is available now on Amazon or directly via my website.
    Connect with Steph:

    Website: https://stephcaswell.com/

    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/stephcaswellauthor/?hl=en

    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stephcaswell/

    If you enjoyed today’s episode, please leave a review on your favourite podcast platform:

    Apple Spotify Amazon

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    54 mins
  • S3: Ep 83 Getting Over the Mid-Book Slump
    Feb 10 2025

    The mid-book slump is real, and in this episode, I'm sharing my unfiltered truth about getting through it - both as a book coach and as someone currently slogging through those final 10,000 words myself.

    Key takeaways from this episode:
    • The truth about why your "perfect" writing routine is actually holding you back (and the ridiculously simple fix you're probably resisting)
    • Why editing while writing is like checking your stats every 5 minutes during a launch - you'll drive yourself crazy and kill your momentum
    • The genius pancake theory that will make you feel 100% better about your crappy first draft (trust me on this one)
    • How being a book-writing hermit is killing your creativity (you need a life outside those chapters)
    • The real reason you're stuck in the middle (and it's not because you suck at writing)

    Getting through the mid-book slump isn't about working harder or becoming a different writer - it's about getting smart about how you show up for your book.

    I hope you enjoy listening.

    👉If you’re ready to stop feeling like you're wading through quicksand, join the Happy Writers Hub, where we get books finished. Because writing alone? That's so 2024.

    Further resources from me
    • The Happy Writers Hub - all info and link to join is here
    • Sign up for the Write Stuff newsletter here.
    • My book, ‘Dare to Write: How to Write a Nonfiction Book to Grow Your Business,’ is available now on Amazon and on my website.
    Connect with Steph:
    • Website: https://stephcaswell.com/
    • Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/stephcaswellauthor/?hl=en
    • LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stephcaswell/
    • Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/creatinghappywriters

    If you enjoyed today’s episode, please leave a review on your favourite podcast platform!

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    30 mins
  • S3: Ep 82 Book Review - The Let Them Theory
    Feb 3 2025

    Ever wondered how some authors manage to create such a powerful movement that readers literally tattoo their words on their bodies?

    In this episode, I'm diving into Mel Robbins' latest book, The Let Them Theory – and sharing why it's not just another self-help book but a practical tool taking the world by storm.

    Listen to discover:
    • My journey with Mel's work - from discovering The 5 Second Rule to being featured in her interview and receiving a personally signed book
    • How Mel tests her theories through real-world application before turning them into books - a brilliant strategy for aspiring authors
    • The power of maintaining an authentic voice throughout your writing
    • Why the 'Let Them Theory' is more than just a concept
    • The importance of creating a movement your readers want to be part of - hello, tattoos!

    This episode unpacks the brilliance behind the book and offers valuable insights for authors looking to create meaningful connections with their readers.

    I’m certain you can apply Mel’s approach to your own writing journey – and maybe even inspire a few tattoos along the way!

    Further resources from me

    Sign up for the Write Stuff newsletter here.

    My book, ‘Dare to Write: How to Write a Nonfiction Book to Grow Your Business,’ is available now on Amazon and on my website.

    Connect with Steph:

    Website: https://stephcaswell.com/

    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/stephcaswellauthor/?hl=en

    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stephcaswell/

    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/creatinghappywriters

    If you enjoyed today’s episode, please leave a review on your favourite podcast platform!

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    32 mins
  • S3: Ep 81 Who are you to write a book?
    Jan 27 2025

    Self-doubt and imposter syndrome can stop even the most experienced professionals in their tracks when writing a book. In another mindset-focused episode, we tackle the age-old question, "Who the hell are you to write a book?" and explore why these limiting beliefs hold us back from sharing our expertise with the world.

    During the episode, you’ll discover:

    • Why we struggle with self-doubt when writing - from the daunting nature of putting all our expertise in one place to pre-existing baggage around our writing abilities
    • How self-doubt manifests in our writing journey - through procrastination, keeping our writing secret, and playing down our expertise
    • The power of reframing the question to "Who are you NOT to write a book?" and recognising that your audience already values your expertise
    • Practical strategies for managing self-doubt, including leaning into discomfort, accepting that not everyone will like your work, and remembering the clients you've helped
    • The importance of remembering your 'why' and focusing on helping just one person rather than trying to change everyone's lives

    Remember - self-doubt is part of the creative process, but it shouldn't stop you from sharing your valuable knowledge. Your expertise could change someone's life. It's time to step into your power and acknowledge your incredible achievements - the world needs your voice.

    I hope you enjoy listening.

    Further resources from me

    Sign up for the Write Stuff newsletter here.

    My book, ‘Dare to Write: How to Write a Nonfiction Book to Grow Your Business,’ is available now on Amazon and on my website.

    Connect with Steph:

    Website: https://stephcaswell.com/

    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/stephcaswellauthor/?hl=en

    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stephcaswell/

    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/creatinghappywriters

    If you enjoyed today’s episode, please leave a review on your favourite podcast platform!

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    34 mins
  • S3: Ep 80 Raising Resilient Families - with Dr Beth Mosley MBE
    Jan 20 2025

    As a parent, are you looking for accessible, practical advice on supporting your child's mental health? This month's guest has just what you need.

    Dr Beth Mosley, NHS Clinical Psychologist and author of 'Happy Families', joins me for an insightful conversation about supporting children's mental health in today's digital world. Drawing from over 20 years of NHS experience, Beth shares her expertise on navigating technology, building resilience, and maintaining open communication with our kids.

    During our fantastic conversation, we talk about:

    • How the pandemic transformed parenting and our relationship with technology - and what this means for our children's development and mental wellbeing
    • Why teenagers may seem more resistant to in-person social interactions now, and practical strategies for maintaining meaningful connections with them
    • The delicate balance between protecting our children and allowing them to develop resilience through managing their own challenges
    • Beth's journey from NHS workshops to international publishing, including how she wrote her book in just six months while juggling full-time work and single parenthood
    • The exciting opportunities that have emerged from publishing, including breaking mental health stigmas across different cultures, and her plans for a potential new book focused on supporting children through divorce

    This is such an important conversation for any parent navigating today's challenges, packed with practical advice and honest insights from both personal and professional perspectives. I hope you find it as valuable as I did!

    Connect with Beth and her book:
    • Book
    • Instagram
    • Website
    Further resources from me
    • My book, ‘Dare to Write: How to Write a Nonfiction Book to Grow Your Business,’ is available now on Amazon or directly via my website.
    Connect with Steph:

    Website: https://stephcaswell.com/

    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/stephcaswellauthor/?hl=en

    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stephcaswell/

    If you enjoyed today’s episode, please leave a review on your favourite podcast platform 🙏

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    1 hr and 6 mins
  • S3: Ep 79: Write The Damn Book Already: Your Success Plan for 2025
    Jan 13 2025

    What would you do if you were writing your first business book in 2025? In this episode, I share the seven key strategies I wish I'd known when writing my first book and how you can use them to finally get your expertise onto the page.

    Listen to discover:

    • Why waiting to feel "ready" is holding you back from becoming an author (and what to do instead)
    • The power of writing for one specific person who needs your help right now
    • How treating your book as a strategic business move transforms your writing journey
    • Why scheduling non-negotiable writing time is crucial for book-writing success
    • The importance of getting support from day one (and why going it alone makes everything harder)
    • How sharing your writing journey openly builds anticipation and support for your book
    • Why writing the book only you can write is your secret weapon for success

    Your years of expertise and client experience are enough - you don't need another qualification or "one more year" of experience to write your book. What matters is taking action now, with the knowledge you already have.

    Whether you're just starting to think about writing a book or you've been putting it off for years, this episode will give you the permission and practical steps you need to write the damn book already!

    Enjoy!

    Further resources from me

    Sign up for the Write Stuff newsletter here.

    My book, ‘Dare to Write: How to Write a Nonfiction Book to Grow Your Business,’ is available now on Amazon and on my website.

    Connect with Steph:
    • Website: https://stephcaswell.com/
    • Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/stephcaswellauthor/?hl=en
    • LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stephcaswell/
    • Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/creatinghappywriters

    If you enjoyed today’s episode, please leave a review on your favourite podcast platform:

    Apple Spotify Amazon

    Listen to all previous podcast episodes on my website via the podcast platforms below or by searching for 'Creating Happy Writers' on your favourite podcast provider.

    Apple Podcasts

    Spotify

    Amazon Music

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    31 mins
  • S3: Ep 78 - Best of the Guests 2024: Part 2
    Dec 30 2024
    Ever wondered what really happens when you send your manuscript to an editor? Or how other authors navigate the journey from first draft to published book? In this second part of my special compilation episode, six incredible authors and publishing professionals share their honest experiences and practical wisdom. From transforming academic work into reader-friendly content to overcoming the fear of sharing your story to finding your perfect readers - these conversations get to the heart of what it means to be a non-fiction writer today. Listen to this episode to discover: Shelley Wilson's honest take on the realities of book sales and how authentic community engagement can lead to unexpected opportunitiesEmma Hepburn's journey of balancing her NHS career with authorship and her reflections on finally claiming the title of 'author'Becky Warrak's strategic insights on book marketing, including why niching down can actually help you reach more of the right readersJessica Brown's refreshing perspective on the editing process - demystifying what really happens when you share your manuscript with an editorNia Thomas's experience of transforming complex academic work into accessible business content, and how writing helped her distill her core messageHilary Salzman's powerful exploration of why women hesitate to share their stories and how we can create positive change by supporting each other's voices This episode weaves together practical publishing wisdom with deeper insights about finding confidence as an author. From marketing strategies to managing imposter syndrome, each guest brings a unique perspective while sharing a common goal: helping writers find their way forward with clarity and purpose. Whether you're wrestling with sharing your story, wondering about working with an editor, or looking to reach more readers, these conversations offer valuable insights to help you take your next step with confidence. Enjoy! Guest Information Shelley Wilson WebsiteSocial MediaShelley’s BooksFull episode Emma Hepburn InstagramEmma’s booksFull episode Becky Warrak BookInstagramWebsiteFull episode Jessica Brown Website Instagram LinkedInFull episode Nia Thomas BookInstagramLinkedInWebsiteFull episode Hilary Salzman BookInstagramWebsiteFull episode Further resources from me Sign up for the Write Stuff newsletter here. My book, ‘Dare to Write: How to Write a Nonfiction Book to Grow Your Business,’ is available now on Amazon and on my website. Connect with Steph: Website: https://stephcaswell.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/stephcaswellauthor/?hl=en LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stephcaswell/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/creatinghappywriters
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    45 mins
  • S3 Ep 77: Best of the Guests 2024 - Part 1
    Dec 16 2024
    There's no 'one size fits all' approach to building your author platform - but there are proven strategies that can help you find your own authentic path. In this special compilation episode, featuring highlights from some of Creating Happy Writers' most insightful conversations of 2024, six guest authors and industry experts share their invaluable insights on everything from email marketing to managing your inner critic, helping you navigate the journey from writing your book to connecting with your readers. Listen to this episode to discover: Hannah Isted's practical approach to email marketing and balancing book promotion with business activities, including how she used her email list to shape her book's development Sarah Dalrymple's fresh perspective on finding ease in sales, particularly for women of the pre-internet generation who weren't taught to be comfortable using their voices Natalya Androsova's compassionate strategies for managing your inner critic, including creating a mental "writing sanctuary" where self-doubt isn't allowed to enter Nicola Washington's insights on social media strategy for authors and why visibility fears often stem from our real-life connections rather than online strangers Isabelle Knight's approach to author branding, reframing it as simply telling the story behind your story rather than a marketing chore Anna Zannides' powerful message about believing in your potential beyond traditional measures of success, drawing from her experience as both a teacher and writer This episode is packed with practical advice and emotional support for writers at every stage of their journey. From marketing strategies to mindset work, each guest brings their unique expertise while sharing a common thread: the importance of finding authentic ways to share your work with the world. Whether you're just starting your writing journey or looking to level up your author platform, these conversations offer valuable insights to help you move forward with confidence. Enjoy! Guest Information Hannah Isted BookInstagramWebsiteFull episode Sara Dalrymple BookInstagram WebsiteFull episode Natalya Androsova BooksInstagramWebsiteFull episode Isabelle Knight WebsiteInstagramLinkedInFull episode Nicola Washington WebsiteInstagramSubstackFull episode Anna Zannides BookInstagramWebsiteFull episode Further resources from me Sign up for the Write Stuff newsletter here. My book, ‘Dare to Write: How to Write a Nonfiction Book to Grow Your Business,’ is available now on Amazon and on my website. Connect with Steph: Website: https://stephcaswell.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/stephcaswellauthor/?hl=en LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stephcaswell/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/creatinghappywriters If you enjoyed today’s episode, please leave a review on your favourite podcast platform.
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    43 mins