Stop Overthinking and Finish the Damn Book with Susie Schaefer
You’ve got the idea. The story. The mission.
So why haven’t you finished the damn book?
In this episode, publishing strategist Susie Schaefer reveals why so many entrepreneurs stall on writing their book—and how to finally turn your story into a powerful authority asset for your brand, business, and impact.
If a book has been living in your head for years… this might be your sign.
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Susie Schaefer is the Founder and CEO of Finish the Book Publishing, where she helps entrepreneurs and thought leaders turn powerful ideas into professionally published books. A lifelong lover of storytelling, Susie believes books are more than stories—they’re catalysts for healing, community, and movement. Through her work, she empowers authors to bring their message to life and use their book as a platform for what she calls “Business Ascension.”
Enjoy, sovereigns!
Listen to the episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, Amazon Music, or your other favorite podcast listening platform. You can also watch the episode on Youtube.
What You’ll Learn in this Episode:
- Why most entrepreneurs never finish their book—and how to finally get it done
- Susie’s “Author Trifecta” framework: Story, Brand, and Community
- Why marketing your book should start before you even finish writing it
- How to turn your book into a powerful authority and business growth tool
- The truth about imposter syndrome and the question every author asks: “Who am I to write this?”
- How authentic storytelling builds deeper connection than polished “expert” advice
- Why AI can help structure your book—but should never replace your voice
- The mindset shift that helps authors move past resistance and finish the damn book
Quotes:
“Your book isn’t the finish line — it’s the beginning of the movement.” ~ Kimberly Spencer
“Your book should align three things: your story, your brand, and your community.” ~ Susie Schaefer
“Finishing your book isn’t about selling thousands of copies — it’s about using your message to change someone’s life.” ~ Susie Schaefer
Moments of Note:
00:00 — Why So Many Entrepreneurs Never Finish Their Book
Kimberly Spencer introduces the episode and asks the big question: why do brilliant leaders with powerful stories struggle to finish writing their book?
01:32 — How Susie Schaefer Became the “Book Doula” for Authors
Susie shares her journey from corporate life to helping entrepreneurs and thought leaders publish meaningful nonfiction books.
02:26 — Why Writing a Book Is Like Birthing a Baby
Susie explains the “book doula” metaphor and how guiding authors through the publishing process mirrors the emotional journey of birth.
03:02 — The Biggest Book Marketing Mistake Authors Make
Why most authors wait too long to start marketing their book—and what to do instead.
04:29 — When Should Authors Start Promoting Their Book?
Susie breaks down the ideal timeline for launching a nonfiction book and building anticipation before publication.
05:13 — Why Book Marketing Starts Before Your Book Is Finished
How building engagement and community early helps your book succeed once it launches.
06:08 — How Entrepreneurs Should Use a Book as a Business Asset
Kimberly explains why a book should support your authority, speaking opportunities, and client pipeline.
08:33 — The Author Trifecta: Story, Brand, and Community
Susie introduces her framework for aligning your book with your business mission.
09:52 — Why Selling Books Isn’t the Real ROI for Authors
The surprising truth about book sales and why many authors profit from just a few clients.
11:55 — Why Personal Storytelling Makes Books Powerful
Kimberly shares why vulnerability and storytelling build stronger connections with readers.
13:49 — Overcoming Imposter Syndrome as an Author
Susie discusses the common fears that stop entrepreneurs from sharing their stories.
14:58 — Authenticity in the Age of AI Writing
Why authentic human storytelling matters more than ever as AI-generated content grows.
18:49 — How Authors Should (and Shouldn’t) Use AI in Writing
Susie explains where AI can support the writing process—and where it shouldn’t replace human voice.
22:32 — The Emotional Resistance That Stops Authors From Finishing Their Book
Why writing and editing are the hardest stages of the publishing process.
24:00 — The #1 Thing Authors Need to Finish Their Book
Susie shares the powerful truth: most authors simply need permission to finish the damn book.
27:45 — Is Writing a Book an Ego Play or a Mission?
A deeper conversation about purpose, ego, and impact when sharing your story publicly.
29:00 — Writing a Book as Personal Growth and Transformation
Why writing a book is like running a marathon—it changes who you become in the process.
31:15 — Why Authors Often Write Multiple Books
Susie explains why publishing one book often unlocks more stories and ideas.
32:17 — Why Authors Should Invest in a Book Marketing Team
The role of PR, marketing, and support teams in successfully launching a book.
35:33 — Final Advice: How to Finally Finish Your Book
Susie shares her best advice for entrepreneurs who have a book idea but haven’t started yet.
Transcript:
For a full episode transcript,you can find it here
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