Beyond the Cover

PR for Authors: https://leveragewithmedia.com/

Follow our guest, Stacy Igel:

Instagram: @stacyigel

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

Website: www.stacyigel.com

Shop: https://www.boymeetsgirlusa.com/collections/shop-all

Podcast audio and show notes by Podcast Abundance. Find out more at www.podcastabundance.com/services

Redefining Your Social Life with Sober Curiosity

Beyond the Cover

04/16/24 • 39 min

New Year’s Eve is often synonymous with blowout parties and champagne toasts, but for Hillary Sheinbaum, a serendipitous New Year’s Eve bet threw her into a sober curious lifestyle that’s both hilarious and enlightening.

Hillary, a New York Times journalist and author of "The Dry Challenge," shares her accidental yet transformational journey into a world where non-alcoholic beverages are rapidly gaining popularity. Throughout the episode, we sip on non-alcoholic treats like the craft cocktail Curious Number One Pomegranate Negroni and a raspberry gin alternative, and we explore the role they play in redefining social drinking norms.

Laughter and Libations: A Look into Dry Socializing

[10:57] - Navigating Sobriety and Dating - Challenges and strategies of giving up alcohol, addiction transference, sober months, dry dating, and societal reactions.

[24:24] - Changing Perspectives on Alcohol and Culture - Exploring the Sober Curious movement, social media’s influence on the rise of sobriety awareness among youth, acknowledging changes in social habits and a trend towards kindness and political awareness.

[30:51] - Non-Alcoholic Cocktail Trends and Events - Catering to the non-alcoholic trend, creating inclusive social settings, business investments and ethical journalism in the zero-proof market.

[41:06] - Enjoying Specialty Drinks and Sober October - Enjoying non-alcoholic spirits, Sober October challenge, and positive experiences of taking a break from alcohol.

Navigating the Social Labyrinth of Society

We share insights on managing social pressure around alcohol, the significance of a support network, and the mixed reactions one might face when opting for a sober lifestyle. Exploring the notion of 'dry dating' as a litmus test for compatibility, we shed light on the potential red and green flags that become more apparent in the absence of alcohol's influence.

We delve into the cultural shift surrounding alcohol consumption, especially among the younger generation, and the rise of non-alcoholic cocktail trends. We spotlight businesses and establishments that are innovating within the non-alcoholic space, along with the impact of social media influencers and public figures in amplifying sobriety awareness. Finally, we emphasize the need for self-kindness and how taking a break from alcohol through events like Dry January and Sober October can lead to a refreshing and eye-opening experience.

Key Takeaways of this episode include:

The Sober Curious movement is changing the landscape of drinking.
It is crucial to have a support system and self-acceptance when dealing with peer pressure surrounding alcohol.
Sobriety awareness can influence a societal shift towards inclusivity and investments in a zero-proof market.

Follow Lauren for more:

Instagram: @lauren_cobello

PR for Authors: https://leveragewithmedia.com/

Follow our guest, Hillary Sheinbaum

Instagram: @hilarywritesny

Website: https://www.hilarysheinbaum.com/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/hilary_she

Buy the Book, “The Dry Challenge” at https://www.amazon.com/Dry-Challenge-January-October-Alcohol-Free/dp/0062937707

Podcast audio/video management by Podcast Abundance. Find out more at www.podcastabundance.com/services

How to Start a Movement with a Book: Simran Kaur from Girls that Invest

Beyond the Cover

03/12/24 • 38 min

Simran Kaur, the dynamic force behind Girls that Invest, shares how her personal crusade for gender equality evolved into a transformative global movement. Her unwavering commitment to educating women on financial mastery lays the foundation for a future where finance is as much a women's world as it is a man's.

We don’t just talk shop about investment strategies; we dig into the roots of her mission, exploring the gender pay gap and financial abuse, and how these issues underscore the vital need for financial literacy. Her story, from advocating for fairness in her own home to igniting a worldwide community of female investors, emphasizes her commitment to making finance both accessible and equitable.

The Power of Women, Wealth, and Wisdom

Together, we trace the path from youthful realizations about the importance of money matters to the burning desire to stand financially independent without a partner’s safety net.

Hear the cultural hurdles and societal epiphanies that catalyzed Simran’s quest for independence, transforming a simple Instagram account into a rallying cry for feminist empowerment.

Unlocking Women's Financial Mastery

[02:08] - Financial Independence Empowers Women - Simran's journey to financial independence, addressing cultural expectations, empowering others, social media influence, and importance of financial literacy for women.

[16:37] - The Impact of Publishing a Book - Understanding publishing intricacies, using proactive strategies for promotion, and embracing the journey of authorship and entrepreneurship.

[22:17] - Parenting Woes and Publishing Frustrations - Balancing parental duties, podcast promotion, book publishing challenges, and surreal moments for authors post-publication.

[35:51] - Importance of Effective Communication - Power dynamics and professional courtesy in author interactions and public relations.

Behind the Scenes of Entrepreneurship

We peel back the curtain on the business side of content creation, from securing deals and negotiating contracts to the highs and lows of post-launch life. And because life doesn't pause for anyone—not even for authors—we also explore (with humor) the hurdles of juggling parenting and professional commitments, all while navigating the rollercoaster ride of authorship and entrepreneurship.

Key Takeaways of this episode include:

Just because you make a lot of money doesn’t mean you’re financially independent.
The gender pay gap is real and financial literacy is crucial to women’s equality.
Share your knowledge to empower others and celebrate your progress.

Follow Lauren for more:

Instagram: @lauren_cobello

PR for Authors: https://leveragewithmedia.com/

Follow our guest, Simran Kaur

Instagram: @girlsthatinvest

Website: https://girlsthatinvest.com/

Podcast: https://girlsthatinvest.com/pages/podcast

Twitter: https://twitter.com/girlthatinvest

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@girlsthatinvest

Buy the Book, “Girls that Invest: Your Guide to Financial Independence through Shares and Stocks” at https://www.amazon.com/Girls-That-Invest-Financial-Independence/dp/111989378X

Podcast audio editing and show notes by http://www.podcastabundance.com/services.

Real-Life Rom-Com Journey as a Social Media Influencer

Beyond the Cover

04/23/24 • 45 min

Ever felt like your love life was straight out of a romantic comedy, only with more awkward moments and less cinematic sparkle? Carrie Berk, the social media sensation and author of "The Real-Life Rom-Com," joins us to unravel what it’s like to navigate relationships as a teen with social media.

With a colossal following that's nearly hit the 5 million mark, Carrie shares her journey from fashion blogger to TikTok and Instagram star, and what it's been like to juggle being a humble student and a freelance writer.

Authentic Connections in A Digital World – Highlights

(13:29) What’s it Like to Have 5 million Followers? - Carrie’s considerations for and protectiveness of her teen audience. Authenticity, responsibility, and relatability in social media for young fans.

(33:12) Navigating Teenage Emotions and Relationships - Teenage breakups, healing through storytelling, parental support, therapy, and navigating adulthood and career aspirations.

(40:20) Selling Your Book with Social Media Features - TikTok & Instagram’s impact on book marketing, ethical considerations, and the emotional impact of social media on young audiences.

The Intersection of Online Fame and Personal Relationships

Carrie's literary success isn't just measured in sales—it's in the conversations her book opens within parent/daughter relationships, providing us insight into our teens lives. We get real about the less-than-polished moments of our lives, the kind that don't always make it to the 'Gram, and how keeping it authentic can be the most powerful brand of all.

The Importance of Creating a Platform of Your Own

Lauren and Carrie discuss the responsible creation of content for young, impressionable minds, plus the unreliability of social platforms when it comes to building a personal brand. Sure, she’s acquired her followers on social media, but she’s also been building a presence on her website and through her book, outside of social media.

Key Takeaways:

Responsibly creating content for a young audience
Ethical challenges and opportunities of being a social media influencer
The crucial role of empathy, validation, and parental support for teens as they grow into adults

Follow Lauren for more:

Instagram: @lauren_cobello

PR for Authors: https://leveragewithmedia.com/

Follow our guest, Carrie Berk

Website: https://www.carrieberk.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/carrieberkk

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@carrieberkk

Buy the Book, “My Real-Life Rom Com” at https://www.carrieberk.com/books

Podcast audio/video management by Podcast Abundance. Find out more at www.podcastabundance.com/services

Embracing Humor for a Transformative Life Journey with Steve Rizzo, the Mindset Adjuster

Beyond the Cover

04/09/24 • 42 min

Imagine sharing the stage with comedy legends before they were legends, and feeling stuck, wondering why you’re not getting big breaks too. Steve Rizzo, the Mindset Adjuster, shares how he not only survived the comedy trenches alongside the likes of Chris Rock and Jerry Seinfeld but also how he turned comedy into a tool for personal growth.

Through the rollercoaster of a comedy career and poignant moments of self-discovery, Steve's journey is a compelling testament to the power of following your heart. His chronicles provide an intimate glimpse into the resilience required to make bold choices, stay authentic, and chase what resonates with the core of one's being.

Finding Joy and Success Beyond the Stage

Steve offers golden nuggets of wisdom on the significance of internal happiness and how our self-talk shapes our reality. As he recounts the honor of being inducted into the Speaker's Hall of Fame, he reminds us to appreciate the steps along the way, not just the accolades.

From shedding negative labels to wrestling with self-doubt and fear, Steve opens up about his personal struggles. He shares his pivotal moments, including the heartfelt realization that led him to walk away from a burgeoning comedy career to follow his heart towards motivational speaking.

Humor’s Role in Empowering Success

[12:24] - Following Your Heart Toward Success - How Steve transitioned from comedy to motivational speaking, finding unexpected opportunities and the power of inner callings.

[27:26] - Journey to Finding Authentic Self – Transformative journey of personal growth, ending a marriage, cathartic breakdown, divine guidance, self-belief, embracing passions.

[32:34] - Shifting Mindsets for Success - Power of therapy, mindful communication, resilience, common sense success strategies, creating one's own miracles.

[38:45] - Journey to Internal Happiness – A reminder to never put our happiness on hold, focus on personal progress, and be grateful for life's blessings.

Laughter-Laced Lessons in Resilience and Happiness

Steve explores the pivotal role of mindset in overcoming life's hurdles and the joy that comes from pursuing one's passion. His story exemplifies the profound impact of listening to one's inner callings and the strength found in authenticity.

Steve sheds light on the importance of internal happiness and the dangers of becoming fixated on regrets, offering a poignant reminder to cherish the journey and not just the destination. He proves that even when the spotlight fades, the echoes of authentic choices and heartfelt messages carry on.

Key Takeaways of this episode include:

Toxic beliefs and negative labels will always exist, but you don’t have to let them dominate your mindset.
Each of us has the capacity to choose gratitude and enjoy our voyage through life.
Make the choice to shift your mind to focus on what is working instead of what isn’t.

Follow Lauren for more:

Instagram: @lauren_cobello

PR for Authors: https://leveragewithmedia.com/

Follow our guest,

Instagram: @realsteverizzo

Website: https://www.steverizzo.com/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/steverizzophb

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

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

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@realsteverizzo

Buy the Book, “Conversations with Bob” at https://www.amazon.c...

Welcome to the Beyond the Cover Podcast

Beyond the Cover

02/28/24 • 1 min

Lauren is a renowned national TV personality, 3x author, and Founder and CEO of Leverage with Media PR. With an impressive track record of success and a charismatic on-screen presence, Lauren has been a regular on national TV for over a decade and has captivated audiences on shows like the TODAY show, GMA, Dr. Oz, Rachael Ray, and hundreds of others.

Lauren Cobello's exceptional journey, from a TV personality to a successful author and the founder and CEO of a thriving PR agency, showcases her unwavering passion, unwavering dedication, and unwavering commitment to excellence. Her personal brand and Podcast ‘Beyond the Cover’ aims to help non-fiction authors learn how to write the right book for their businesses, how to use their book to earn more money and grow their brand.

Reclaiming Your Mental Health at Work with Natasha Bowman

Beyond the Cover

04/02/24 • 53 min

Struggling with mental health can feel like an isolating journey, but Natasha Bowman's story serves as a beacon of hope and resilience. Her tale is one of vulnerability and strength, as she navigates the precarious waters of professional identity, self-worth, and mental health, particularly under the harsh spotlight of the pandemic.

As we explore the pages of Natasha's eye-opening book, "Crazy AF: How to Go from Being Burnt Out, Unhappy and Unmotivated to Reclaiming Your Mental Health at Work," we uncover the stigmatized world of mental illness in the workplace and the importance of self-care over the glorified hustle culture. Natasha's experience provides a roadmap for balancing our personal and professional lives, advocating for a work-life harmony that prioritizes our health and relationships.

Shattering the Silence on Corporate Mental Well-being

Natasha doesn't shy away from the less spoken truths of the corporate world, as we unwrap the significance of her viral LinkedIn post that shattered the silence on mental health struggles. Natasha's insights into the transformation that follows public vulnerability, coupled with her push to redefine work-life harmony and the art of boundary-setting, are nothing short of empowering.

Our discussion broadens to include practical advice for anyone feeling the weight of juggling life's demands, highlighting why it's crucial to discern which balls are glass and which are plastic in the juggle of life's responsibilities.

From Burnout to Balance with Bipolar Disorder

[04:54] - Embracing Mental Wellness - Confronting stigma around mental illness, advocating for self-care, and setting boundaries for mental health in the workplace.

[24:31] - Self-Care Over Hustle Culture – How personal crisis led to reevaluating success, embracing self-care, and valuing moments and relationships over material possessions.

[37:52] - Book Launch Strategies and Mistakes - Pitfalls in book marketing, pre-launch strategy, provocative titles, leveraging networks, creative control, and the necessity of strategic sales.

[49:38] - Success and Self-Care in Business - Celebrating the incredible journey and success following the release of Natasha’s influential book and the opportunities it created for her.

Crafting Success Through Vulnerability and Self-Care in Business

Beyond personal battles, Natasha discusses the strategic side of using books as a vehicle for professional growth. She candidly shares the ups and downs of book launches, the benefits of self-publishing, and how her writing journey has intertwined with her speaking and consulting career.

Whether you're a mental health advocate, an entrepreneur, or simply someone looking to find balance in the chaos, this episode is a profound exploration of how embracing our struggles can forge a path to success and fulfillment, both in and out of the office.

Key Takeaways of this episode include:

A mental illness diagnosis doesn’t mean your career is over. It can be a source of strength rather than a setback.
It’s okay to “be more disappointing” and redefine what work-life harmony looks like for you.
Self-advocacy and creating spaces for employees to share their story is key to normalizing mental health conversations in the workplace.

Follow Lauren for more:

Instagram: @lauren_cobello

PR for Authors: https://leveragewithmedia.com/

Follow guest, Natasha Bowman

Instagram: @the_workplace_dr

Website: https://natashabowman.com/

LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/natashabowmanjd

The Transformative Question for Success in Life, Love, and Business with Sonia Satra

Beyond the Cover

03/26/24 • 47 min

Sonia Satra traded her soap opera scripts for the pen of a thought leader by sharing the transformative question that can redefine our journey to success: Her book, "What If It Were Easy," unravels this concept.

A simple shift in perspective might be all you need to unlock your hidden potential. Our conversation begins with the story of her husband's entrepreneurial ventures and leads us to the inception of 'Moticise', a unique blend of mindset work and exercise.

Humble Logos to Powerful Affirmations

Sonia's insights on the power of embracing imperfection reveal her approach to creating Moticise. It's a testament to the idea that we can grow and adapt through the challenges that entrepreneurship throws our way.

The Journey From Soap Opera Star to Author

[08:44] Embracing Growth Through Imperfection - Starting small, making difficult choices, book writing and marketing, and Moticise coaching method are discussed in this chapter.

[20:46] Overcoming Fear and Building Strength - Physical activity and positive affirmations can enhance mental resilience and confidence to achieve ambitious goals.

[32:40] Navigating the Publishing Process - Embracing past experiences, choosing one's path, and publishing a book are discussed in relation to personal and professional growth.

[44:02] Entrepreneurship and Personal Growth - Positive thinking's transformative power in personal and professional settings, entrepreneurship, and the impact of a 'what if' mindset.

Overcome Fear and Seize Your Potential

The strength we build to surmount fear and step into our power becomes palpably clear as we explore Sonia's potent combination of pushups and positive affirmations.

Discussing the reality of navigating the publishing industry, we reveal the diligence and decision-making that creates a book like "What If It Were Easy."

Key Takeaways include:

Instead of thinking of your goals as these large, nearly unattainable feats, they may be more achievable than ever with a simple perspective shift.
It's going to be imperfect when you start, no matter how much time you spend (procrastinating) trying to make it perfect. All of our businesses and creative works must be allowed to grow and change over time.
What can you do to build both physical and mental strength 1% at a time?
Your business can't outgrow your personal development.

Follow host, Lauren Cobello:

Instagram: @lauren_cobello

PR for Authors: https://leveragewithmedia.com/

Follow guest, Sonia Satra:

Instagram: @soniasatra_moticise

Website: soniasatra.com

YouTube: www.youtube.com/@SoniaSatraMoticise

Buy the Book at https://whatifitwereeasy.com/

Becoming the Celebrity CEO: Personal Branding Secrets with Ramon Ray

Beyond the Cover

03/05/24 • 47 min

Ever wonder how some entrepreneurs turn into local legends or industry rockstars? Say hello to Ramon Ray, author of The Celebrity CEO: How Entrepreneurs Can Thrive by Building a Community and Strong Personal Brand. Ramon reveals how he spun his own narrative into not just another success story, but a masterclass in personal branding.

He's chatted with President Obama, stood shoulder to shoulder with big names like Gary Vaynerchuk, and now he's here to share the playbook for elevating your brand to celebrity status, no matter your niche.

Ramon unpacks the secrets to becoming a household name within your own industry, emphasizing that the potential for recognition isn't just reserved for global superstars.

The Insider's Guide to Becoming a Household Name in Business

Ramon takes us through the trenches of PR battles and the triumph of securing top-tier publishers, all while maintaining a media presence that keeps the spotlight on him. It's not just about the glitz of the launch; Ramon emphasizes the groundwork of community-building and the art of storytelling that makes a lasting impression, ensuring that his message—and yours—doesn't just echo in the halls but resonates with a growing tribe of followers.

We explore the nine core pillars essential to personal branding success, including the savvy use of webinars, social media, and the creation of a supportive community well ahead of any book release.

Rise to Fame Strategies for Entrepreneurs with Expert Insights

[17:38] - Strategies for Becoming a Celebrity CEO - Building a personal brand and becoming a 'celebrity CEO' through niche creation, community building, and strategic content repurposing.

[30:17] - Importance of Book Marketing and Publicity - How key life events, media appearances, personal storytelling, and niche platforms solidify one's reputation and authority in their field.

[34:52] - Interviewing President Barack Obama - Ramon’s experience of securing an interview with President Obama, leveraging high-profile experiences for personal branding, humanization of celebrities, and addressing nerves associated with interviewing.

[42:43] - Author Branding and Book Launch Strategies – Delving into authors' motivations, book launches, speaking engagements, financial backing, and brand building for subsequent books.

Building a Brand That Makes You a Star with Ramon Ray

Ramon reflects on the gravity of interviewing a president and how such milestones are more than just feathers in your cap—they're rocket fuel for your brand. He dissects the anatomy of a book launch, emphasizing the need for financial savvy and the real talk on what it takes to hit the lists that matter.

Key Takeaways of this episode include:

Anyone has the potential to propel their brand to becoming a name people know and trust.
Solid strategies for marketing, PR, and storytelling are critical to the success of your brand.
Establish and nurture a supportive community to ensure your message thrives.

Follow Lauren for more:

Instagram: @lauren_cobello

PR for Authors: https://leveragewithmedia.com/

Follow guest , Ramon Ray:

Instagram: @ramonraysmarthustle

Website: https://www.ramonray.com/

LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/ramonraysmallbiz

Buy the Book, “The Celebrity CEO: How Entrepreneurs Can Thrive by Building a Community and Strong Personal Brand” at

Navigating AI with Powerful Perspective: Chris Perry

Beyond the Cover

04/30/24 • 46 min

AI advancements, particularly in chat GPT technology, are transforming content creation and sparking debate about the role of authors in a world where computers produce human-like content. These tools can enhance research, drafting, and editing, though human creativity remains vital to the production of great content.

Chris Perry’s expertise is showcased in his book "Perspective Agents," where he reveals how to develop a clear-eyed perspective, even as AI is being rapidly implemented everywhere you look.

The Importance of Adapting to Digital Platforms

(13:55) Virtual Companions: Therapeutic Bonds with AI

(21:17) Human Creativity in AI Writing Collaboration

(40:09) Navigating Ethical AI in Everyday Life

AI’s Impact on Jobs: Shifting Landscape Ahead

The push towards digital platforms necessitates that businesses adapt to stay relevant. AI's impact on jobs may result in shifts, but also offers potential for new roles.

Navigating Ethical Dilemmas in AI Technology

Chris Perry talks about how AI friends can serve as confidants, counselors, and even soul mates for users, showcasing the potential therapeutic benefits of these virtual connections. The discussion also touches on the ethical implications of using AI technology for companionship, emphasizing the importance of approaching these advancements with a neutral perspective to understand their impact on society.

Key Takeaways:

Advancements in AI technology have transformed content creation and sparked discussions about the role of authors in a landscape where computers can produce human-like content.
AI companions like replicas can serve as confidants, counselors, and soul mates, showcasing the potential therapeutic benefits of virtual connections.
Adapting to new technologies in the evolving media landscape is crucial to staying relevant in a digital world shaped by influencers, social media, and emerging technologies like AI.

Follow Lauren for more:

Instagram: @lauren_cobello