be. What Works Weekly

The Book Futurist: Lifting Up New Authors

What does it really take to write, launch, and protect a book in today’s world? In this episode of be. What Works Weekly, Mike sits down with Julie Trelstad — a 30+ year publishing veteran and self-described “book futurist” — to break down what’s actually happening in the publishing industry. With over 4,000 books being released every week (and nearly 30% reportedly AI-written), standing out — and protecting your work — has never been more important. Julie shares: * Why people really want to write a book (hint: authority starts with “author”) * How to identify the one book only you can write * Realistic timelines from idea to Amazon * The truth about Amazon bestseller strategies * Why selling direct to your audience may be smarter than relying on Amazon * How AI can help — and how it can hurt — authors * New tools for protecting intellectual property in the age of AI If you’ve ever thought about writing a book — to build authority, grow your business, or serve your niche — this conversation gives you the practical roadmap. Because in a crowded marketplace, your voice is still your advantage.

Intentional Silence: Discovering The True Potential of Hypnosis

In this episode of Be What Works Weekly, Mike Wood interviews Paul Salter, a mindset and performance coach who specializes in helping high performers overcome mental barriers. Paul shares his journey from being a sports dietitian to a hypnotherapist, emphasizing the importance of mindset in achieving personal and professional goals. The conversation delves into the challenges faced by high achievers, such as imposter syndrome and perfectionism, and offers practical strategies for self-discovery and personal growth. Paul highlights the role of hypnosis in facilitating change and the significance of morning routines and self-reflection in setting intentions for success.

The Core Value That Drives Millionaire Entrepreneurs to Keep Pushing Forward

In this episode, Mike Wood interviews Erwin Sigua, a seasoned entrepreneur and property manager, who shares his journey through the real estate industry, including his experiences during the financial crisis. Erwin discusses the importance of resilience, the evolution of his business, and the drive to take on new challenges. He emphasizes learning from failures, the significance of mentorship, and finding balance in life and work. The conversation provides valuable insights for aspiring entrepreneurs and highlights the importance of self-development and understanding one's core values.

Success Without Authenticity Leads to Burnout—and How to Find True Joy

Most success isn't about how much you achieve—it's about whether your inner life is in sync with your outer achievements. Adrian Jones's story of surviving a massive heart attack at midlife isn't just a tale of resilience; it’s a wake-up call for anyone feeling trapped on the relentless hamster wheel. When health issues forced him to pause, AJ realized the true source of joy is living authentically and aligning your actions with your core values—before it’s too late. In this powerful episode, AJ shares the raw, vulnerable moments that shifted his entire outlook on life and success. You'll discover how radical honesty and small daily actions can lead to radical transformation. We break down practical steps to identify your non-negotiables, set boundaries that protect your energy, and replace guilt with intentionality. If you’re feeling burnt out, disconnected from your purpose, or simply craving clarity, this is your blueprint for realignment. AJ’s journey from high-powered finance to living authentically on the North Carolina coast offers a bold new perspective: you don’t have to wait for a health scare to make life-changing choices. Instead, he offers a simple, actionable framework—starting with honest self-assessment and micro-movements—that can help you regain control, find true happiness, and unlock your full potential. Perfect for high achievers, busy professionals, and anyone searching for meaning beyond success on paper, this episode invites you to reconsider what really matters. Prepare to challenge your routines, embrace discomfort, and take that first small step toward a more aligned, fulfilling life. Your wake-up call might just be a decision away. [AJ is a former financial industry professional turned authenticity advocate, author, and founder of the More platform, dedicated to helping others live true to themselves. visit www.bemorealigned.com or email hello@bemorealigned.com for more info]

From LinkedIn to Facebook Ads: What Changes, What Doesn't, and How to Win.

In this episode of be. What Works Weekly, we break down what actually drives business growth across different lead channels—from LinkedIn outreach to Facebook and Instagram ads. While the tactics may change, the principles don’t. You’ll learn: * What’s different between organic outreach and paid ads * What stays the same no matter the platform * How trust, targeting, and systems impact lead quality * How to think about lead generation as math—not magic * How you can apply these principles to get more business Whether you’re relying on referrals, experimenting with ads, or building your own database, this episode will help you stop chasing tactics and start using proven fundamentals that scale.