
Hosted by The Doctor of Digital TM · EN

The Reliability of Wealth Creation in an Age of Inequality: Why Investing Must Become Compassionate Again. Purpose of the ShowThis show exists to awaken wisdom, spark clarity, and help thinkers, leaders, and creators live with a depth of purpose the modern world has forgotten. Every conversation is an invitation — not simply to master strategy, but to steward influence, shape ecosystems, and build a more generous economic future. Introduction: What happens when a capital strategist, ecosystem architect, bestselling author, and nationally ranked podcast host sets her life’s mission toward one goal:Re-imagining private equity as a tool for human flourishing? Today’s guest, Karen Rands, is not merely a leader in early-stage investing — she is the founder of an entire movement. Known as The Compassionate Capitalist, Karen has spent more than twenty years challenging the old, extractive models of wealth creation and replacing them with something richer, wiser, and more humane. Her conviction is simple and bold:When more people invest in entrepreneurs — wisely, ethically, and confidently — communities grow, innovators thrive, and the wealth gap begins to close. In a financial culture often defined by fear, inequity, and gatekeeping, Karen is giving aspiring investors something rare:A proven, principled pathway into private equity that aligns purpose, passion, and profit. Credibility + BackgroundKaren is the founder of Kugarand Capital Holdings, a Federal SBA–Certified Woman Owned Small Business, where she serves as a trusted strategist to entrepreneurs, investors, venture capital networks, and economic development agencies seeking to fund innovation and expand access to capital. She is the bestselling author of two groundbreaking works:Inside Secrets to Angel InvestingInside Secrets to Crowdfund Investing: Follow Jane’s JourneyTogether, these books have become definitive guides for individuals entering private equity for the first time — illuminating a wealth-building asset class historically hidden from the public.Across her career, Karen has:coached founders through private placements, Reg CF, Reg A+, and Reg D offeringsguided investors through due diligence, risk assessment, and wealth-building strategydeveloped capital strategies for growing companies and emerging technologiespartnered with venture capitalists, family offices, and syndicate networksserved as an advisor across the lower and middle marketshelped entrepreneurs prepare to scale and exit with confidenceAnd she amplifies this mission through The Compassionate Capitalist Show™, a global top-2.5% business podcast with more than 300 episodes and over 200,000 listeners.Karen’s work integrates economics, ethics, innovation, and community development — embodying her belief that:Investing is not merely financial activity. It is civic stewardship.Episode SummaryThis conversation confronts a defining question of our economic moment:How do we democratize wealth creation without diluting wisdom, lowering standards, or compromising stewardship?Together, we explore:why private equity has remained inaccessible to most people — and how that is changingthe moral and economic case for training 500,000 new angel and crowdfunding investors by 2029how investors and entrepreneurs can form an ecosystem that builds both profit and purposewhat founders get wrong about capital strategy — and how to fix itwhy investors need better due diligence, not more fearhow compassionate capitalism can bridge the wealth gapwhy Karen believes early-stage investing is more profitable — and more ethical — than many traditional asset classesThis is not merely a conversation about raising capital.It is a vision for rebuilding the American Entrepreneur Dream with wisdom, access, and integrity. Call to Action: If this conversation stirs something in you — a desire to articulate your expertise, to clarify your message, or to capture your life’s work in a book that shapes the next generation of entrepreneurs — I would be honored to walk with you. Inside my exclusive, high-level Author Coaching program, I help select authors translate complex ideas into compelling narratives, structure thought leadership that positions them as trusted authorities, and craft manuscripts that carry both economic impact and moral weight. If you’re ready to write the book only you can write — the one that will educate, empower, and endure — my door is open.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-doctor-of-digital-gmick-smith-phd--1279468/support.

The Reliability of Faith in an Age of Doubt: Why Apologetics Must Become Pastoral AgainPurpose of the Show-------------------This show exists to awaken wisdom, spark clarity, and help thinkers, leaders, and creators live with a depth of purpose the modern world has forgotten. Every conversation is an invitation — not simply to defend truth, but to dwell in it, live from it, and let it shape who we become.Introduction------------What happens when a theologian, philosopher, apologist, and black belt in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu sets his life’s work toward one mission:Helping the Church recover confidence in the truth of Scripture?Today’s guest, Dr. Ben Shaw, is part of a new generation of Christian scholars who refuse to separate rigorous intellect from pastoral care. His work stands at the intersection of philosophy, history, theology, and discipleship — and he believes apologetics is not merely about winning arguments, but forming souls.In a culture drowning in skepticism, distraction, and deconstruction, Ben is giving believers something rare:A reasoned, interdisciplinary, historically grounded confidence that the New Testament is trustworthy.Credibility + Background------------------------Ben is the President of CORE Apologetics, a national nonprofit equipping churches, universities, and organizations with the tools to think deeply and disciple faithfully.He is the author of Trustworthy: Thirteen Arguments for the Reliability of the New Testament (IVP, 2024), a work already gaining traction among pastors, professors, and serious lay thinkers.With more than a decade of research alongside world-renowned scholar Dr. Gary Habermas, Ben has contributed to and co-authored over two dozen publications in historical, philosophical, and theological scholarship.His background is a rare blend of disciplines:- BS in Marketing - MA in Religious Studies - PhD in Theology and Apologetics (Liberty University) - More than 10 years as an insurance industry vice president - Black Belt in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu - Hockey player, official, and lifelong interdisciplinary thinker Ben teaches at Liberty University and Colorado Christian University, develops apologetics curricula for the Lee Strobel Center, and speaks across churches, conferences, and campuses nationwide.His conviction is simple and profound:No discipline is an island — and the Church is strongest when it thinks across them.Episode Summary---------------This conversation confronts one of the deepest anxieties of our age:Can we still trust anything — including Scripture — in a world where skepticism feels like maturity?Together, we explore:- why modern Christians doubt more psychologically than intellectually - how interdisciplinary apologetics strengthens discipleship - why historical arguments for the New Testament matter more in 2026 than ever before - how believers can cultivate a faith that is both emotionally grounded and intellectually unshakable - the surprising skill overlaps between Jiu Jitsu and spiritual formation - and how churches can respond to the rising tide of deconstruction with compassion and clarity This is not merely a defense of faith — it is a vision for Christian confidence in an era of cultural disintegration.Call to Action--------------If this conversation awakens something in you — a desire to articulate your ideas with clarity, to shape your message for the next generation, or to capture your life’s work in a book that strengthens the Church — I would be honored to walk with you.Inside my exclusive, high-level book-coaching program, I help select authors translate scholarship into storytelling, turn insight into structure, and shape manuscripts that carry weight, beauty, and staying power.If you're ready to write the book God has placed on your heart — the one that will serve, teach, and endure — my door is open.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-doctor-of-digital-gmick-smith-phd--1279468/support.

Finding Your God-Given Design: Purpose, Calling & the Work You Were Made ForPurpose of the ShowThis show exists to spark transformation, education, and inspiration — helping thinkers, leaders, and creators uncover the wisdom, clarity, and purpose they need to live meaningfully and lead well.IntroductionWhat happens when a successful founder discovers that his true work isn’t software, but souls?Today’s guest, John JR Rennie, has spent decades building teams, businesses, and now believers — guiding people to understand their God-given design and live out their calling with confidence and joy.Credibility + BackgroundJohn is the founder of BrushFires Ministry, Y•M•I Assessments, and a 40-year custom-software company serving clients nationwide.Episode SummaryIn this conversation, we explore how purpose is discovered, not invented — and why so many leaders feel misunderstood, misplaced, or misaligned until they uncover the unique design God has placed within them.Contact John at:https://www.brushfires.groupCall to ActionIf this conversation stirred something in you — a desire for clarity, purpose, or a message you know you're meant to bring into the world — I can help you turn that calling into a book that transforms others.Work with me inside my exclusive book-coaching program:If you’re thinking about turning your voice into a book, my door is open.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-doctor-of-digital-gmick-smith-phd--1279468/support.

Leadership Books vs. Authority Books: How to Know Which You Need (and When) Donna DahlPurpose of the ShowThis show exists to inspire transformation in both life and business. Through candid conversations with authors, leaders, and change-makers, we uncover the wisdom and practical tools you need to thrive.IntroductionWhat separates a leader from an authority? And what happens when your book becomes the bridge between the two?Today’s guest, Donna Dahl, has spent the last two decades empowering executives, entrepreneurs, and high-impact professionals to do exactly that — to write, speak, and lead from a place of clarity, confidence, and authentic authority.Her coaching doesn’t begin with buzzwords or quick wins. It begins with a question: Are you ready to dream more, do more, and become more?Donna is known for transforming leaders into authors and authors into leaders. Through her signature “Dream, Dare, Do” framework, she helps clients translate experience into influence and wisdom into written form. Whether she’s guiding a CEO through a manuscript or mentoring a new entrepreneur through their first leadership challenge, her approach is both strategic and deeply human — focused on building confidence, clarity, and the kind of courage that lasts.In this conversation, we explore the crucial difference between leadership books — written to inspire, develop, and serve others — and authority books, written to define your niche, elevate your expertise, and build a platform that extends far beyond the page.Credibility + BackgroundDonna Dahl is an award-winning Master Empowerment Coach, speaker, and author of Lessons I Learned from the Tortoise, a book that has inspired thousands of readers and leaders around the world.Based in Calgary, Donna has spent more than 20 years coaching executives and entrepreneurs to find their authentic voice, build brands that last, and create businesses — and books — with heart and impact. She has been recognized as a Global Women Leader, a Woman of Inspiration, and a Manuscript Coaching Award recipient by the International Association of Top Professionals.Her 7-week program, Empowering the Leader Within You, has become a game-changer for clients who want to lead with integrity, communicate with precision, and step boldly into their influence.As the Selection Committee Chair for the Women of Inspiration Awards and a frequent keynote speaker, Donna combines the insight of a master coach with the empathy of a mentor who has walked alongside hundreds of leaders in the making. Her clients — including CEOs, coaches, and creative professionals — often credit her with helping them reach record-breaking sales, unlock new levels of self-belief, and write the kind of books that build movements.Episode SummaryIn this episode, Donna helps us untangle one of the most important strategic questions in thought leadership: Do you need a leadership book, or an authority book?A leadership book guides others through growth. It’s written for teams, for emerging leaders, for those who want to serve and inspire. It builds trust, teaches frameworks, and multiplies your influence through empathy and service.An authority book, on the other hand, defines your space. It’s the book that says: This is my domain. This is my message. This is the body of work I stand behind. It elevates your expertise, sharpens your brand, and becomes a cornerstone of your professional legacy.Donna shares the subtle — and powerful — distinctions between the two, offering examples from her own coaching experience of how executives, coaches, and entrepreneurs have used both types of books to accelerate credibility and expand their reach.We’ll talk about:* How to discern which kind of book your business or career needs right now* Why writing too soon — or too broadly — can dilute your message* How to transform leadership experience into authority presence* Why clarity of purpose is the single greatest predictor of publishing success* And how the very act of writing can become an accelerator for personal and professional growthDonna’s wisdom reaches beyond writing strategy. It’s about the interior journey of leadership — the courage to define your message, the humility to refine it, and the discipline to deliver it in a form that endures.Whether you’re a seasoned executive looking to scale your influence or an entrepreneur seeking to crystallize your expertise, this conversation will help you understand *which book belongs to this season of your calling* — and how to write it with confidence, clarity, and conviction.Call to ActionIf you’re ready to stop waiting and start leading — whether through your business, your book, or both — connect with Donna Dahl [DonnaDahl.com](https://tidycal.com/askdonnadahl/30-minute-meeting) Lessons I Learned from the Tortoise — available on Amazon Book a “Consult for Clarity” or explore Empowering the Leader Within You Invite Donna to speak or train your leadership teamBecause leadership doesn’t just happen — it’s built, refined, and embodied. And with the right book, your message can empower others to dream, dare, and perform at a higher level than ever before.Write the Book. Grow the Business. G. Mick (The Doctor of Digital) Smith, PhDhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/g-mick-smith-phd-24495127/LI Newsletter https://www.linkedin.com/newsletters/the-literary-cpr-playbook-7343709688632381440American Patriot Trusted Book Advisor to C-Suite | Manuscript Doctor 🚨 | Transforming Drafts into Authority Assets | Strategic Ghostwriting & Publishing Guidance | Literary CPR for Elite Experts | PhD | Voice Talent | PodcasterBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-doctor-of-digital-gmick-smith-phd--1279468/support.

From Struggle to Strategy: Andrew Calderella’s Mission to Share The WayPurpose of the ShowThis show exists to inspire transformation in both life and business. Through candid conversations with authors, leaders, and change-makers, we uncover the wisdom and practical tools you need to thrive.IntroductionWhat if the very challenges meant to hold you back became the foundation for your calling? Andrew Calderella is living proof that adversity can be reshaped into purpose. Born with dyslexia, a lazy eye that left him legally blind, and other learning disabilities, Andrew faced an uphill battle in school and life. Yet instead of being defined by limitations, he turned them into strengths—emerging as a philosopher, entrepreneur, and bestselling author whose life mission is to help others discover The Way to true success and balance.Credibility + BackgroundAndrew Calderella is the CEO and Founder of Consulting Ace Inc., where, for over 26 years, he has guided organizations from startups to global enterprises in achieving growth, efficiency, and sustainable success. His career spans strategic consulting, fintech innovation, leadership development, marketing, and business transformation. Despite early struggles, Andrew became an avid reader and thinker, ultimately earning degrees in Speech & Communications, Religious Studies, and Eastern Philosophy. His resilience shaped him into an innovator, deep thinker, and advocate for balance in both business and life. Andrew is the author of The Way: 7 Revolutionary Steps to Living a Meaningful Life & Making a Real Difference in the World—a work that distills decades of research and thousands of books into a practical, holistic guide for personal and societal transformation. His book is the foundation of The 7th Foundation, a global movement dedicated to creating peace, unity, and happiness through collective change.A serial entrepreneur, Andrew has worked as everything from a janitor, lifeguard, and personal trainer to a sales manager, IT leader, SEO expert, and CEO. This broad experience gives him a rare, grounded perspective on what it takes to build success from the ground up. Today, he is recognized as a bestselling author, sought-after speaker, and inspiring talk show guest who brings clarity, wisdom, and actionable strategies to audiences worldwide.Episode SummaryIn this episode, Andrew shares how his personal adversities became stepping stones to his larger mission. You’ll learn why The Way is not just another self-help book but a unifying framework for becoming your best self—physically, mentally, emotionally, spiritually, financially, and relationally. Andrew breaks down practical steps for building resilience, integrating work-life balance, and cultivating purpose in both personal and professional spheres. His insights reveal how businesses, families, and individuals alike can move from survival to significance—unlocking potential and making a lasting impact. This isn’t about shortcuts or quick fixes. It’s about the deeper work of aligning your life with principles that lead to genuine success and fulfillment.Call to ActionReady to discover The Way and transform your life or organization? Connect with Andrew here:🌐 Business: ConsultingAce.com🌐 Foundation: 7Way.Me🎙️ Publicity & Booking: 7Way.Me/PubAndrew can help you implement balance in your business, share his inspiring journey with your audience, or guide you through the principles of The Way to achieve lasting success.G. Mick (The Doctor of Digital) Smith, PhDhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/g-mick-smith-phd-24495127/LI Newsletter https://www.linkedin.com/newsletters/the-literary-cpr-playbook-7343709688632381440American Patriot Trusted Book Advisor to C-Suite | Manuscript Doctor 🚨 | Transforming Drafts into Authority Assets | Strategic Ghostwriting & Publishing Guidance | Literary CPR for Elite Experts | PhD | Voice Talent | PodcasterBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-doctor-of-digital-gmick-smith-phd--1279468/support.

The summer of 1970 arrived with uncertainty hanging in the air. Woodstock’s muddy fields were barely dry, the Vietnam War continued despite growing protests, and American culture was navigating a profound transition between the revolutionary spirit of the late 1960s and whatever would come next. Yet amid this turbulence, a collection of songs emerged that offered something the times desperately needed: melodic beauty, emotional honesty, and a gentle soundtrack for processing change. The Three Musketeers at Mayfair High School, myself, Don, and Rod were becoming politically aware, and we watched the events in Vietnam as draft notices were not long in coming. Let’s explore how these songs captured our emotional landscape of that transformative summer while we played ping pong and basketball at Rod’s house, and why these resonate with listeners more than five decades later.G. Mick (The Doctor of Digital) Smith, PhDhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/g-mick-smith-phd-24495127/LI Newsletter https://www.linkedin.com/newsletters/the-literary-cpr-playbook-7343709688632381440American Patriot Trusted Book Advisor to C-Suite | Manuscript Doctor 🚨 | Transforming Drafts into Authority Assets | Strategic Ghostwriting & Publishing Guidance | Literary CPR for Elite Experts | PhD | Voice Talent | PodcasterBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-doctor-of-digital-gmick-smith-phd--1279468/support.

From Crisis to Clarity: Troy Karnes on the Power of Better DecisionsPurpose of the ShowThis show exists to inspire transformation in both life and business. Through candid conversations with authors, leaders, and change-makers, we uncover the wisdom and practical tools you need to thrive.IntroductionWhat if the very experiences that nearly broke you became the foundation for helping others make their sharpest choices? Troy Karnes knows this story well. After being diagnosed with a rare and dangerous cancer less than 100 days into his sobriety, Troy needed a system to stay steady under pressure. What emerged wasn’t just survival—it was a framework for making better decisions, one that now guides executives and leaders to move from reaction to response with clarity and confidence.Credibility + BackgroundTroy Karnes is an author, speaker, and founder of Donovan Enterprises, where he works with executives to strengthen their decision-making under pressure. He developed his system around the HALT framework—recognizing that no one makes strong choices when they’re hungry, angry, lonely, or tired. By combining decision science, leadership psychology, and hard-won personal experience, he equips leaders to anticipate risks, negotiate with calm confidence, and protect their baseline of judgment when the stakes are high.His professional journey spans more than a decade of sales leadership, brand strategy, and business development across major players in the spirits industry, including Constellation Brands and High West Distillery, where he helped scale brands from startup status to national recognition. Today, he channels that expertise into empowering executives and organizations with sustainable systems for growth and resilience.Beyond consulting, Troy is also the founder of Good Vibes Ghostwriting, where he helps business leaders articulate their expertise, share their stories, and connect authentically with their audience. His mission across all ventures is consistent: help high-functioning professionals focus on what matters most by equipping them with the tools and systems to thrive.Episode SummaryIn this episode, Troy shares how his cancer diagnosis and early recovery became the crucible for a system that now shapes stronger leaders. He unpacks the HALT framework, showing why small shifts in self-awareness compound into major improvements in leadership performance. You’ll hear how executives can spot risks before they spiral, maintain judgment in high-stakes negotiations, and avoid the emotional crashes that derail decision-making.Troy’s story is not about quick fixes or motivational slogans—it’s about building resilience through structure, discipline, and perspective. His insights will resonate with anyone carrying heavy responsibilities, navigating crises, or striving to make sharper calls under pressure.Call to ActionReady to sharpen your decision-making and lead with clarity? Connect with Troy here:troy.coach🌐 Business: Donovan Enterprises🌐 Storytelling & Thought Leadership: Good Vibes Ghostwriting🎙️ Speaking & Workshops: TroyKarnes.comTroy can help your team make better decisions under pressure, share his inspiring journey with your audience, or implement proven systems that protect your edge in business and in life.G. Mick (The Doctor of Digital) Smith, PhDhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/g-mick-smith-phd-24495127/LI Newsletter https://www.linkedin.com/newsletters/the-literary-cpr-playbook-7343709688632381440American Patriot Trusted Book Advisor to C-Suite | Manuscript Doctor 🚨 | Transforming Drafts into Authority Assets | Strategic Ghostwriting & Publishing Guidance | Literary CPR for Elite Experts | PhD | Voice Talent | PodcasterBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-doctor-of-digital-gmick-smith-phd--1279468/support.

Bravery, Innovation & Breakthrough Leadership: Jill Schulman’s Mission to Transform TeamsPurpose of the ShowThis show exists to transform your life and business through conversations that inspire, equip, and uplift. I connect busy people to powerful voices—authors, leaders, and world-changers you need to know.IntroductionWhat if the key to courageous leadership isn’t fearlessness but the science of bravery itself? Jill Schulman proves that bold, lasting transformation starts when leaders learn to be braver—personally and professionally. As a keynote speaker, leadership development consultant, and expert in Applied Positive Psychology, Jill empowers organizations to build cultures where innovation thrives and people rise to their highest potential.Credibility + BackgroundJill Schulman is the founder and CEO of Breakthrough Leadership Group, LLC, where she equips leaders to break through to unprecedented performance. With a Master’s in Applied Positive Psychology (MAPP) and years of experience shaping Fortune 500 leadership teams, Jill delivers training that sticks—moving beyond check-the-box workshops to measurable performance change.She’s also the Co-Founder and Chief Firestarter of IGnITE Innovation, a company dedicated to making innovation a skill accessible to everyone in an organization. Jill’s insights have been featured in Fast Company and Psychology Today, and she is a certified expert in Everything DiSC, Situational Leadership II, and high-performance team development.Episode SummaryIn this conversation, Jill shares her powerful perspective on the science of bravery—how individuals and teams can develop the courage to innovate, make bold decisions, and inspire lasting cultural change. You’ll learn practical steps for creating organizations where creativity and accountability drive real results.This episode isn’t about quick fixes. It’s about building the kind of leadership that transforms performance from the inside out.Call to ActionReady to ignite bravery and innovation in your organization? Connect with Jill here:Breakthrough Leadership Group: https://breakthroughleadershipgroup.comLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jillschulmanIGnITE Innovation: https://igniteinnovation.comJill can help you, your team, or your entire organization develop the skills—and the courage—to lead and innovate at the next level.G. Mick (The Doctor of Digital) Smith, PhDhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/g-mick-smith-phd-24495127/Subscribe to my LI newsletterhttps://www.linkedin.com/newsletters/the-literary-cpr-playbook-7343709688632381440https://calendly.com/thedoctorofdigital-pm/restream-meetingAmerican Patriot Trusted Book Advisor to C-Suite | Manuscript Doctor 🚨 | Transforming Drafts into Authority Assets | Strategic Ghostwriting & Publishing Guidance | Literary CPR for Elite Experts | PhD | Voice Talent | PodcasterBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-doctor-of-digital-gmick-smith-phd--1279468/support.

The purpose of the show is to transform your business and life with education and inspiration. I introduce busy people to trends in good ideas, and improving your life by highlighting people you should know.First ParagraphWhat does it take to build a legacy in the world of corporate photography? Join me as I sit down with Lesle Lane, founder of Studio Thirteen, to explore the secrets behind her family's multi-generational business. With over three decades of experience in the industry, Lesle has honed her skills as a photographer and leader, earning her MBA from Indiana Wesleyan and serving on the Alumni Board at her alma mater, Butler University.Second ParagraphLesle's extensive background in corporate image making has equipped her with the expertise to deliver high-quality assets that support her clients' brand strategies. With a diverse team of photographers and associates, Studio Thirteen has built a reputation for excellence, accuracy, and brand transparency. As we dive into our conversation, Lesle will share her insights on what sets her company apart and how she approaches collaboration with clients to elevate the custom photography experience.EpisodeDuring this episode, we'll do a deep dive into the changes and hot topics of photography & the biggest challenges. I will leverage the expertise of my guest and how to navigate the unique dynamics of the field. CTABy the end of this episode, you will be better equipped to know what to do, & I encourage you to contact my guest, Lesle Lane, Founder and CEO of Studio Thirteen.The Idea to Author Coach! https://www.facebook.com/groups/ideatoauthorcommunityHi there! Welcome to my page, where I help aspiring writers achieve their dreams of becoming published authors. My name is Mick, known online as The Doctor of Digital, and I'm thrilled to share my story with you.Growing up in a working-class family, I was surrounded by people who worked hard to provide for their families. My father was a factory worker, and my grandfather was a truck driver. Before that, our family had a long history of farming. But despite our humble beginnings, my parents were determined to break the cycle of poverty and create a better life for themselves and their children.My parents were the first in their respective families to graduate from high school, let alone college. In fact, other than a half-uncle, I was the first in my family to even attend college. And I was considered "not college material" by my teachers. But my parents instilled in me a love for reading, learning, and a strong work ethic, which helped me overcome the odds and achieve my academic goals.Throughout my academic journey, I wrote over 85 academic papers, earned three advanced degrees, including a PhD, and earned nine certificates in executive management, and educational technology. Not surprisingly, I became a professor, teaching 35 college-level courses. I even held leadership positions such as Campus Dean, Vice President, and Executive Director. But despite my many accomplishments, I never lost sight of my passion for writing.After years of writing and teaching, I decided to pursue my dream of becoming a published author. And when my first book was published as a novel, I followed that with a screenplay. Since then, I've written a non-fiction book, and I'm currently working on three more book proposals, on history, a book on music, and work-life balance, respectively. I am also active on three podcasts, have a voice talent, and am a favored speaker at conferences, sharing my expertise on educational technology. Regardless of your writing interests I can help.But my journey didn't come without its challenges. I faced many obstacles, including self-doubt, imposter syndrome, and the pressure to conform to societal expectations. However, I refused to let these challenges hold me back. Instead, I used them as opportunities to learn and grow, and to develop a growth mindset that has served me well throughout my career.As a book coach, I've had the privilege of working with many aspiring writers who are struggling to overcome their own challenges. And I've seen firsthand the transformative power of writing and storytelling. Whether you're a seasoned writer or just starting out, I believe that everyone has a story to tell, and that writing can be a powerful tool for personal growth and transformation.So, if you're ready to take your writing to the next level and achieve your publishing dreams, I invite you to join me on this journey. Let's work together to overcome your challenges, develop your writing skills, and bring your stories to life.Thank you for watching, and I look forward to working with you! Book a complimentary call now on my Calendy.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-doctor-of-digital-gmick-smith-phd--1279468/support.

The purpose of the show is to transform your business and life with education and inspiration. I introduce busy people to trends in writing ideas, and improving your life by highlighting people you should know.First ParagraphHave you ever felt like you're meant to do something more with your life, but you're not quite sure what that is? Sebastien de Castell, author of the acclaimed swashbuckling fantasy series The Greatcoats and the YA fantasy series Spellslinger, has certainly had his fair share of career changes. From archaeology to music, ombudsman to fight choreographer, Sebastien's path to becoming a writer was anything but traditional. But what drives someone to pursue so many different passions, and how do they all come together in his writing?Second ParagraphWith a background in archaeology and a degree in hand, Sebastien de Castell might have seemed destined for a life of dusty digs and ancient artifacts. But after just four hours on his first dig, he realized that archaeology wasn't for him. Instead, he went on to pursue a wide range of careers, from music to interaction design, fight choreography to product strategy. And yet, despite his many talents and accomplishments, Sebastien's writing is what has brought him the most recognition and acclaim. His series, The Greatcoats and Spellslinger, have been shortlisted for numerous awards and have been translated into over a dozen languages. Sebastien de Castell is the author of The Greatcoats and Spellslinger.EpisodeDuring this episode, we'll do a deep dive into the changes and hot topics of visionary writing & the biggest challenges. I will leverage the expertise of my guest and how to navigate the unique dynamics of the field. CTABy the end of this episode, you will be better equipped to know what to do, & I encourage you to contact my guest, Sebastien de Castell is the author of The Greatcoats and Spellslinger.The Idea to Author Coach! https://www.facebook.com/groups/ideatoauthorcommunityHi there! Welcome to my page, where I help aspiring writers achieve their dreams of becoming published authors. My name is Mick, known online as The Doctor of Digital, and I'm thrilled to share my story with you.Growing up in a working-class family, I was surrounded by people who worked hard to provide for their families. My father was a factory worker, and my grandfather was a truck driver. Before that, our family had a long history of farming. But despite our humble beginnings, my parents were determined to break the cycle of poverty and create a better life for themselves and their children.My parents were the first in their respective families to graduate from high school, let alone college. In fact, other than a half-uncle, I was the first in my family to even attend college. And I was considered "not college material" by my teachers. But my parents instilled in me a love for reading, learning, and a strong work ethic, which helped me overcome the odds and achieve my academic goals.Throughout my academic journey, I wrote over 85 academic papers, earned three advanced degrees, including a PhD, and earned nine certificates in executive management, and educational technology. Not surprisingly, I became a professor, teaching 35 college-level courses. I even held leadership positions such as Campus Dean, Vice President, and Executive Director. But despite my many accomplishments, I never lost sight of my passion for writing.After years of writing and teaching, I decided to pursue my dream of becoming a published author. And when my first book was published as a novel, I followed that with a screenplay. Since then, I've written a non-fiction book, and I'm currently working on three more book proposals, on history, a book on music, and work-life balance, respectively. I am also active on three podcasts, have a voice talent, and am a favored speaker at conferences, sharing my expertise on educational technology. Regardless of your writing interests I can help.But my journey didn't come without its challenges. I faced many obstacles, including self-doubt, imposter syndrome, and the pressure to conform to societal expectations. However, I refused to let these challenges hold me back. Instead, I used them as opportunities to learn and grow, and to develop a growth mindset that has served me well throughout my career.As a book coach, I've had the privilege of working with many aspiring writers who are struggling to overcome their own challenges. And I've seen firsthand the transformative power of writing and storytelling. Whether you're a seasoned writer or just starting out, I believe that everyone has a story to tell, and that writing can be a powerful tool for personal growth and transformation.So, if you're ready to take your writing to the next level and achieve your publishing dreams, I invite you to join me on this journey. Let's work together to overcome your challenges, develop your writing skills, and bring your stories to life.Thank you for watching, and I look forward to working with you! Book a complimentary call now on my Calendy.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-doctor-of-digital-gmick-smith-phd--1279468/support.