Author: CMPMediaCafe

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Family & Parenting Health & Medicine Lifestyle Living U.S

Top 5 Mistakes Parents Make with Autistic Children: Insights from Severe Autism Specialist Lyndsy Moffatt

Non-verbal autism is a condition affecting a significant number of children across the United States and according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), approximately 1 in 36 children in America are diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). In fact, 30-35% of people with autism are non-verbal or minimally verbal and it can severely impact a child’s ability to express their needs, thoughts, and emotions. This often leads to frustration and a heightened sense of isolation.

Lyndsy Moffatt is a Severe Autism Specialist with over a decade of experience in supporting families with autism. Her story started when her son, Dominic, exhibited severe non-verbal autism symptoms from an early age. Despite her concerns, doctors initially dismissed his condition as normal, but at age five, Dominic still wasn’t talking, was still in diapers, and had extreme sensory issues and self-harming behaviors. 

Feeling hopeless and unable to secure a timely medical diagnosis, Lyndsy started researching on her own. She stumbled upon an alternative treatment, The GAPS Diet developed by Dr. Natasha Campbell-McBride, that reversed the majority of her son’s symptoms within six months. “Had I listened to the ‘Autism Experts’ and conventional doctors, my son would probably still be hitting himself 100 times a day,” Lyndsy reflects. “After years and years of painstaking research and trial and error, I finally came across something that helped my child’s autistic symptoms. Who would have thought that the key started with something as basic as his diet?”

Through her experience in seeing her son’s transformation, Lyndsy became a Certified GAPS (Gut and Psychology Syndrome) Coach and holistic nutritionist. She has helped hundreds of families reduce and alleviate autism symptoms in their children and created The Free Autism Guide for parents navigating challenges with their child. According to Lyndsy, there are five mistakes parents of children with autism are making and she has insights on how to avoid them.

1. Waiting for a diagnosis to do anything. Lyndsy was told she’d have to wait an entire year to get an appointment with a doctor for an evaluation regarding Dominic’s symptoms. She knew she couldn’t sit around and wait to start helping him. She says that many parents are waiting six months or even longer to get a diagnosis. This critical time could be used to make healthy changes that could lead to significant progress. Lyndsy advises, “You might as well start taking action when you presume your child has autism and get started because that is precious developmental time. Whereas it’s never too late to make changes, waiting a year will cost you later.”

2. Referring to your children as nonverbal or nonspeaking in front of them. Lyndsy wants parents to know, “Your children are listening, whether you think they are or not, and your words have the power to impact their development and growth. Be careful what you believe about their lack of abilities and what you say about them because they will most likely absorb and adopt those beliefs, too.” 

3. Not realizing diet is the key to helping a non-verbal or minimally-verbal child. Lyndsy is the author of The Gut Healing Guide that has been instrumental in helping parents navigate a healthy diet plan for their child. This nutritional protocol is the foundation for correcting imbalances that can exacerbate the negative symptoms of both nonverbal and minimally-verbal autism. Also, feeding a child fast foods and processed foods could be the direct cause for many of the symptoms they may be experiencing since these foods often contain harmful additives. Studies have shown that certain foods can be instrumental at reversing the behavioral abnormalities associated with ASD. 

4. Purchasing synthetic vitamins to supplement The GAPS Diet. Mainstream vitamins are not all created with the best ingredients. According to Lyndsy, “Unfortunately, most brands use harmful synthetic vitamins that cannot be processed by people with autism due to their body’s unique genetic makeup and they often make the problem worse. As a Certified GAPS coach, I help people differentiate the organic whole food based supplements that do exist from the harmful synthetic versions. For instance, many children with autism would benefit from vitamin B12, but most people do not know the difference between natural and synthetic B12. Natural B12 is made from bacteria that grows in soil and in our intestines, as well as some algae and seaweed species. But synthetic B-12 is made from cobalt and cyanide that is fermented together to produce it. The body doesn’t recognize synthetic vitamins the same way it does natural vitamins and often times this can make the behavioral problems even worse.” 

5. Parents ignore their own needs because their child’s care is consuming them. Parents of children with autism often neglect themselves and try to focus on their autistic children’s needs rather than their own. This is a big mistake because healthy and rested parents are much better equipped to support their children effectively. Lyndsy confirms this, “I see many parents that don’t eat healthy and take care of themselves, so they cannot help their child from a superior place. The healthier and happier you can become will have a direct correlation on your child’s health and happiness too.” It is also essential for parents to pay attention to getting proper sleep and eating a healthy diet for themselves. 

Lyndsy Moffatt is well known for her holistic approach to autism spectrum disorder. As a Certified GAPS (Gut and Psychology Syndrome) Coach and Founder of SpectrumABLE, she supports parents of children and adults with autism worldwide, helping alleviate autism symptoms through nutrition, detoxification, and mindset while embracing healthier lifestyles. Parents can connect with her on Facebook or through her website. Her work is inspired by her own son’s remarkable transformation from severe nonverbal autism to thriving, achieved through The GAPS Diet and various other protocols she teaches in her online course. She is also a sought-after speaker, sharing her knowledge globally at health events and educational institutions.

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Business Marketing & Sales Media & Communications Professional Services U.S

Marianne Schwab, Former TV Talk Show Producer, Reveals 4 Ways TV Interviews Build Credibility for Non-Fiction Authors

In today’s competitive market, non-fiction authors face the tremendous challenge of standing out and establishing their credibility to draw attention to their book. Building a media presence is essential, but it’s not just about selling books; it’s about becoming a trusted voice in their niche. Local TV talk show interviews can significantly improve an author’s profile, leading to more opportunities in speaking engagements, additional media appearances or collaborations, and even securing national media interviews over time.

Based on her insider knowledge as a former national TV talk show producer, Marianne Schwab knows what producers look for in a guest. She also coaches authors on how to create a compelling message and interview on talk shows with confidence. She says there are four key ways that authors can build credibility as leading experts and take their careers to the next level, especially when they understand how to leverage local media appearances.

1. Establishing Credibility and Authority. Appearing on local TV talk shows instantly boosts an author’s credibility that can set them apart from other experts and authors. Marianne emphasizes, “When viewers see you on TV, they perceive you as an authority in your field. When I was a producer on the inside of talk shows, I wanted to book an expert who had great problem solving tips. I’d scroll through their table of contents to pick out of the best bits, like two or three problems that the author solves as a professional and refers to in the book, and those solutions would become the focus of the segment.”

2. Enhanced Speaking Opportunities. Being featured in the media can open doors to new speaking engagements since event organizers often look for speakers who have that experience. TV talk show appearances demonstrate that an author can not only deliver valuable content, but it is also an impressive credential to promote to potential attendees to get them to purchase admission to the event.

3. Increased Book Sales. Media exposure can definitely increase book sales but the appearance alone needs to be leveraged with other media to maximize impact. “When you’re seen as an expert on TV, viewers are definitely more inclined to purchase your book for further insights and this visibility can drive additional sales,” says Marianne. “However, the author should never rely on the broadcast alone. They need to obtain a digital clip of the interview and embed it strategically on their website, book funnel pages, and social media platforms so that everyone in their audience can see the interview. I work with clients to design an interview framework that is compact, positions them as a leading expert, builds trust in their expertise with problem solving tips, and impacts viewers in a way they’ll want to work with them or buy their book. They can also take their best soundbites from the interview and create shorts, reels, or ads so that one TV interview can actually generate over 20 pieces of content to build interest and drive additional sales when leveraged in this way.” 

4. Networking and Collaboration. TV talk show interviews can lead to new networking opportunities and collaborations. By focusing on local talk shows, producers, hosts, and other guests can become valuable contacts that can lead to further media appearances and other career-boosting opportunities. When authors make a good impression, they can navigate the media landscape so they become sought-after on-air media contributors and reach new heights in their careers.

The exposure gained from local TV talk shows is one of the best ways for authors to position themselves as leading experts because the programs offer a significant platform to impact their audience in a memorable way. Marianne has worked with numerous non-fiction authors to help them become the go-to experts in their fields and explains, “Local talk shows are often overlooked as a starting point for media, but they hold immense power for authors. When I was producing for national shows, I wouldn’t even consider booking a guest unless they had the experience of interviewing on local talk shows first.”

Marianne Schwab has worked as a talk show producer in New York and Los Angeles and is currently the Executive Producer of CMP Media Cafe. She works with professionals, high level entrepreneurs, and non-fiction book authors to help them fast track their success in becoming a recognized expert in the media. Through personalized media coaching and guidance, she helps clients navigate the intricate world of media appearances. She shares broadcast public relations tips on Instagram and has created an online training that shares her insider secrets to promoting a business on TV talk shows with details for the types of experts producers love to book as guests.

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Culture, Society & Lifestyle Family & Parenting Lifestyle Living U.S

Caris Snider, Author of Anxiety Elephants, Advocates Mental Health Awareness with Groundbreaking Book Series

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Anxiety is often likened to an elephant in the room affecting millions of people worldwide and what many don’t know is that it is the number one mental health struggle across all age groups. From teenagers grappling with the issues of adolescence to adults juggling the overwhelming demands of modern life, people often feel alone as they wrestle to manage the symptoms and challenges of anxiety.

Caris Snider is an anxiety advocate, speaker, and author of the groundbreaking series of books, Anxiety Elephants, that provides a roadmap for understanding the complexities and burdens of dealing with the symptoms of this common mental battle. Drawing from her own struggles with anxiety, she shares, “When I first started dealing with symptoms, it felt like I had an elephant on my chest. I also thought I was all alone and, as a person of faith, I didn’t think I was supposed to have these problems. When I found a way through the darkness, I wanted to share what I discovered to help others dealing with anxiety and that led me to write my first book, a 10-Day Devotional on stomping out Anxiety Elephants.”

Snider’s first book was so well received that she saw a need to create a series on the topic that would help moms, children, and teens through their daily struggles and shared some of the coping techniques for confronting their fears while also embracing a future filled with promise.

The beginning to understanding how to conquer anxiety is awareness. “Some people don’t even realize that they’re experiencing signs of anxiety,” according to Caris. “Symptoms have many forms and can include having a rapid heart rate, feeling breathless, having sleepless nights, being overly emotional to the point of bursting into tears, or even being afraid that something really bad will happen. I want you to know that you have the power to take back control and that’s why I’ve written this series of books.”

One of the features that makes the Anxiety Elephants book series unique is that Caris Snider has included action steps for readers to take in each book to help them conquer the problem. Here are three things she suggests to do when someone is experiencing symptoms.

1.    Deep Breathing Helps Calm the Anxiety.  Caris says that, “When fear grips you, take a moment to pause and engage in a deep breathing exercise. This simple practice helps shift your focus from the emotional part of our brain to the thinking part,” and provides a soothing effect similar to a massage for the mind.

2.    Focus on Gratitude. When anxiety hits, think about good things to activate positive emotion. “Cultivating a mindset of gratitude helps reframe your perspective and fosters a sense of positivity even in the midst of anxiety,” Caris shares. It sounds simple, but it can be a game changer.

3.    Dump the Negativity from the Brain. For anyone struggling with anxious thoughts, Caris has a brain dump exercise. “Take post-it notes and jot down negative thoughts, then tear them up and discard them. Then, you want to replace these negative thoughts with positive truths. You may want to keep post-its handy, like in the car, so you can write them down whenever you have anxious thoughts.” This exercise helps rewire the brain to almost physically let go of anxious thoughts by tearing them up and then take control of the mind and emotions replacing negative ideas with positive ones.

With a degree in Child Development, Caris Snider is a Speaker, Anxiety Advocate, and Author, who is on a mission to confront the number one mental health struggle with her transformative Anxiety Elephants book series. This includes the best-selling children’s book, There’s An Elephant on My Chest that she uses as an ice-breaker and tool to engage with children and teens when speaking at schools to share her practical solutions on how to shrink those “elephants” as well as ways on how to talk through anxiety with trusted adults.

Beyond school settings, Caris is dedicated to making a lasting impact and speaks at community groups and women’s conferences to give insight and support for moms struggling with anxiety or helping them understand how to help their children navigate it. She loves connecting with parents on Instagram and directly through her website since she is committed to help moms, children, and teens find freedom from fear in the fight against anxiety.

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Hospitality Lifestyle Living Travel U.S

Months After the Lahaina Fires, Visitors Respectfully Return to the Island as Maui Tourism Recovers

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In August 2023, historic Lahaina in West Maui was devastated by a fire that destroyed the town. It left residents with unimaginable grief over the loss of lives, homes, and livelihoods where local jobs, local businesses, and the entire community rely on tourism. Maui is known for its incredible beauty found nowhere else in the world and as the island officially began welcoming visitors back in early November, Mike White, who managed two prestigious hotels on Maui for over 35 years and is a Member of the Board of Directors for the Hawai‘i Tourism Authority, shared how the people of Maui are doing in the midst of recovery.

White, who was interviewed by AM Northwest at the Maui Ocean Center, said, “As you can imagine, the people of Maui are hurting. And everyone is navigating it differently. It is going to take some time to process, heal, and focus on rebuilding their lives. But our people are resilient, hard-working, and have a lot of aloha toward each other and will get through this just fine.” He added, “But it is important to realize that 85% of the jobs on Maui are either fully or partially dependent on tourism. So the return of visitors to Maui is critical to our recovery.”

Although, Lahaina remains closed to the public out of respect for the community and as debris removal and clean up efforts have started, many people do not realize it is just a small pocket of West Maui and most accommodations have reopened except for Lahaina Town proper. The vast majority of Maui was unaffected, untouched, and has remained open including Kahului, Wailuku, Kīhei, Wailea, Upcountry, and Hānaare that have been welcoming travelers.

Since so many people are looking for ways to support Maui, Mike White has some suggestions, “If you already love Maui, then we’d love to welcome you back and if you’ve never visited before, then it’s time you did and experience hiking through rainforests, walking on mountaintops, and tasting delicious local produce at a roadside farm stand. Here at the Maui Ocean Center, you can learn about Hawai‘i’s marine life including conservation initiatives aimed to protect our oceans. Supporting these local spots is the most generous way you can help Maui residents and businesses right now.”

Hawai’i Tourism Authority (HTA) wants visitors to come and enjoy all Maui has to offer and also wants them to know that they can compassionately express the aloha spirit in several ways. First, they ask for sensitivity for residents still healing from the Lahaina event and that visitors refrain from asking what they’ve been through since even a well-meaning question may be difficult for some still navigating what happened. Second, there are still areas that are closed to the public so they appreciate that visitors respect these closures. Finally, the HTA expresses mahalo for understanding and anyone wanting to visit the island or find out more about how to be a part of the Maui recovery can go to GoHawaii.com/Maui.

 

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Culture, Society & Lifestyle Family & Parenting Lifestyle Living U.S

Dr. RJ Jackson, Teen Life Coach, Shares His Secrets on How to Motivate an Unmotivated Teenager

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The teen years can certainly be difficult and over 80% of teenagers struggle with confidence and motivation that often results in having few close friends and a lack of drive to achieve their goals. Dr. RJ Jackson (Dr. RJ) is on a mission to not only help teenagers tackle some of their toughest challenges, but also create a bridge that allows parents and teens to communicate effectively.

According to Dr. RJ, the two biggest problems teens face are confidence and motivation. He explains, “Most parents believe that this is caused by social media, but this has actually been a problem for teens long before social media existed. For example, if your child is shy and maybe has a resistance to try new things, it’s most likely a confidence issue. Or if your child procrastinates and you have to force them to do things, it’s most likely an issue with motivation.”

Parents and teachers may think that this is typical or normal behavior for a teen and that willpower is the answer to get their child to do their chores or homework, but as Dr. RJ shared on a recent interview with We Are Austin, willpower doesn’t work. “Willpower doesn’t work because what we’re asking a child to do is to overcome something that is painful. You see, all humans are wired the same – they want to avoid pain and pursue pleasure,” he says. “For example, you have a child who hates school and homework so that’s in the pain category and then you’re expecting this child to do something they don’t like. And when they do the thing they don’t enjoy, it brings more pain. This is why willpower will never work and will never be sustainable.” 

Dr. RJ Jackson says that the number one way he has found to flip the switch for an unmotivated teen is conditioning. He takes the two categories of pain and pleasure and helps the child decide how to sort it effectively, “For example, when we have a child who wants to make friends, but all the things required to make new friends include meeting new people and trying new things that is in their pain category, they naturally won’t do it. Conditioning is when we take those activities that cause pain and show them how to move them into their pleasure category so they’ll naturally re-condition their mind and that’s how we flip the switch.”

As a leading authority in teen development, Dr. RJ Jackson has coached over 10,000 teens in the past decade and is dedicated to helping teenagers maximize their full potential. In his book, Parenting Happy Teens: It’s An Inside Job, he helps parents understand the reasons why teenagers make self-destructive choices, experience so much stress, worry, and unhappiness, and he shares how they can overcome these challenges. He loves connecting with parents and teens on Instagram and directly through his website since he is committed to making a lasting impact on the next generation. 

 

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Books & Literature Family & Parenting Lifestyle Religion U.S

Author Marsha Gray Hill Shares How to Turn Grief into Guidance in a Post-Pandemic World

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No one has escaped the events of the last four years unscarred when the world felt like it was upside down. Marsha Gray Hill is no exception when she, like so many people around the world, lost a parent in the midst of the global pandemic. As she tried to process her grief, she directed her emotions into writing a book, Grief and Grit(s), designed to help others who not only suffered loss during the pandemic, but also wants them to know they are not alone.

“It was so important for me to write this book about my mama, Adaline Gray, that I lost during the pandemic. She wasn’t just a number but an extraordinary woman who lived an extraordinary life,” Marsha shares. “Losing a mom at any age is naturally difficult, but it was very traumatizing for me since she wasn’t allowed to die with dignity which everyone deserves. If we don’t talk about what happened to my mama and so many others, we’re going to miss out on everything we can learn from it and that’s why I wrote this book.”

In Grief and Grit(s), Marsha writes about the challenges she experienced when she unexpectedly found herself in the position of being a caregiver for her mother when she developed dementia and the assisted living apartment that was her residence was no longer an option. Marsha eventually had to hire someone to care for her mom when she could not longer do it on her own and then when the pandemic hit, it made it worse, “Our parents take care of us growing up and it never occurred to me that I’d end up taking care of my mama when she developed dementia and became like a child,” she says. “It was a challenge to find home care workers who were not only caring and trustworthy, but also compassionate for someone with dementia.”

When Marsha Gray Hill was recently interviewed on Tampa Bay’s Morning Blend, she shared these three guidelines for anyone who finds themselves in a similar care giving role like she did.

1. It is important to get support and not go it alone. It’s so easy to get burned out so don’t be afraid to reach out to others, like family or friends, that may be able to help.

2. Make sure to research home care providers and options. When it’s not possible to care for a parent directly, it’s important to research the best facilities or home care providers that are the best fit. And when working with an agency, be mindful that sometimes they’ll say they’re sending their best person when they may just be sending whoever is available.

3. Install a camera to remotely monitor that proper care is being provided. “One of the best things I did was install a camera so that I could remotely check in on my mom and see if she was getting proper care. We do this with children and nanny cams, to protect them so it’s natural to do this for the elderly who can’t speak for themselves,” Marsha shared. She also added that it’s important to let care givers know about the camera and she felt it helped them be more accountable.

Shocked by society’s neglect of the elderly, particularly evident during the pandemic, Marsha is on a mission to elevate awareness and dignity for seniors and through her book, Grief and Grit(s), she offers invaluable insights to help others navigate the complexities of grief and caregiving. She connects with readers on Instagram to share her ongoing journey. Her book is distributed by Simon & Schuster and available through her website at MarshaGrayHill.com, online outlets and at book stores across the country. 

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Lifestyle Services Society & Culture Technology U.S

The Smartphone App, Adult Real ID, is a Game Changer to Ensure Safe Encounters when Meeting Online Strangers in the Real World

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In a world where the internet connects people from all walks of life, ensuring safety when meeting strangers has become a vital concern. The digital world, while a hotbed of opportunities, also harbors various lurking dangers including identity thieves, cyber criminals, and predators who create fake online personas to deceive others (known as catfishing). Catfishing is alarmingly common and can have devastating consequences including the threat of kidnapping and human trafficking for those lured into these schemes.

To address these alarming risks, Thomas Kopec and Jay Kanetkar, the co-founders of Adult Real ID, have developed this groundbreaking smartphone app that is revolutionizing the way individuals interact and meet strangers online. Recognizing these dangerous threats, Kanetkar, a former FBI agent, was inspired to take action. “In the FBI, I saw first-hand the risk that online predators pose to both children and adults. That’s why I knew I had to do something to address the threat,” he explains.

Adult Real ID is designed to keep users safe when meeting online connections and strangers. The app goes beyond mere identity verification. Kopec adds, “Our app keeps you safe when meeting strangers. It prioritizes user safety during face-to-face meetings, provides secure meeting arrangements, and offers emergency assistance features to foster a safer digital landscape for everyone.”

This innovative platform offers four key features that sets it apart in the world of online safety and secure meetings.

1. Connects with Verified Users. Adult Real ID allows users to connect with others by entering their badge numbers, a unique feature designed to identify and verify individuals. By connecting with verified users, the app significantly reduces the risk of encountering fake profiles or falling victim to catfish relationships. This feature serves as a crucial layer of security, providing users with peace of mind when interacting with new acquaintances.

2. Add Events and Meet with Verified People. Creating and attending events using the app is a powerful way to build trust and security within a community or platform. Event attendees have all undergone a rigorous four-step verification process, including inputting personal information, setting up profiles, uploading essential documents, and verifying their mobile phone numbers. Kopec says, “We created a more secure meeting experience and knew it was essential to go beyond identity verification and prioritized user safety during face-to-face meetings because it serves as an added layer of protection, ensuring that friends or family members are aware of the meeting arrangements and can intervene if necessary.”

3. Safety Image Feature. To enhance safety during in-person meetings, Adult Real ID has a Safety Image feature. When scheduling an event, members can select a safe image and after the event concludes, both members must log in within twenty-four hours and choose the same image to verify their safe return. This feature provides a tangible way to confirm the safety of both parties involved.

4. Warning Image Feature. In situations where safety is compromised, the app offers the Warning Image feature. If either party selects the warning image instead of the safe image, an immediate alert is triggered, notifying the app’s safety team who will alert law enforcement immediately. Both members receive two emails and text messages urging them to close out the event. Failure to do so prompts the app’s safety team to contact the user and, if necessary, their emergency contact, ensuring swift action in emergencies.

Already in use on high-profile college campuses across the country, the app has gained over 100,000 users. It has become an indispensable layer of security for students and anyone concerned about safety when meeting strangers, whether on the Internet or in real-life encounters. The app offers subscription plans starting as low as $3.00 per month, making it accessible to a broad audience.

In a world where online interactions are an integral part of daily life, Adult Real ID emerges as a beacon of safety, offering a robust tool to ensure the well-being of individuals as they navigate the digital landscape. This innovative app sets a new standard for responsible online connections, empowering users to interact with confidence, peace of mind, and, ultimately, changing the game in the realm of online meetings and encounters.

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Books & Literature Business Marketing & Sales Media & Communications U.S

Marianne Schwab, Former National Talk Show Producer, Reveals Five Blunders Non-Fiction Book Authors Should Avoid that Kill TV Interview Success

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Each year, over four million new titles emerge for non-fiction personal and business development books and increased access to self-publishing means thousands of them are written by high-level entrepreneurs and business professionals. These books have the power to impact lives, share valuable insights, and establish the authors as thought leaders, but a big challenge occurs on how do they rise above the noise to reach a target audience to promote the book on TV talk shows that can lead to not only becoming a recognized expert, but ultimately increase sales. 

The problem with promoting a non-fiction book is cutting through the clutter with thousands of authors who are also seeking limited interview spots on talk shows. Marianne Schwab is a former national network TV Talk Show Producer who has a deep understanding of what media decision makers look for when booking authors as guests and recently revealed her list of five blunders to avoid that can kill the results of securing interviews.

1. Focusing Solely on Self-Promotion. While promoting a book is essential, solely focusing on self-promotion is a common mistake. TV talk shows, and also podcast producers, are primarily focused on delivering value to their audience. If the pitch is solely about the book and how great it is, it will come across as self-serving. Marianne suggests, “You need to focus on one or two problems that you solve as a professional and refer to in the book. When I book an author or work with one to secure talk show interviews, I like to look at the table of contents and pick out of the best bits that I know viewers are going latch on to. By framing your pitch around the audience’s needs, you’ll be seen as a valuable guest rather than a self-promoter. I want to book an expert who has great problem solving tips and having written a book establishes their credibility.”

2. Creating a Media Alert that Simply Announces a New Book. It may seem logical to create a headline and media alert that is a new book announcement, but unless a book author is already a recognized expert or celebrity, this will not set them apart from a stack of pitches on a producer’s desk. The media alert should have a hook that grabs the producer in a way they can use it to grab viewer interest to tune in to their show or click on the interview when it’s uploaded to their website. According to Marianne, “The media alert headline should set up a problem that reading your book solves. For example, if you’re a real estate professional, the headline might be ‘Three Mistakes New Home Buyers Make that Cost Them Thousands.’ Your book may cover more, but a TV interview segment generally only has three to four minutes.”

3. Neglecting Audience Relevance. One of the most common mistakes authors make is failing to consider the relevance of their book to the show’s audience. It is a waste of time to send out hundreds of pitches to every talk show or podcast without understanding who the audience is for program. “Before reaching out to producers, take the time to research their content thoroughly. Understand their target demographic, the topics they typically cover, and the issues their audience cares about. Your pitch should clearly demonstrate how your book aligns with their audience’s interests and concerns,” Marianne says. “Your media alert should make it clear that your book offers valuable insights that their viewers or listeners will find compelling and beneficial.”

4. Lack of Personalization & Professionalism. Producers receive countless pitches daily and generic emails stand out for all the wrong reasons. To make an impact, personalize the pitch. “Definitely address the producer by name and even mention specific episodes or topics from their show that you enjoyed or found relevant, and explain why you believe your topic would benefit their viewers. This can be really helpful if the show regularly features chefs and cookbooks in the kitchen with a tasty recipe or local entrepreneurs sharing news you can use for viewers,” and Marianne adds, “I love being creative to help authors turn what would otherwise be a boring new book segment into a memorable TV interview or demo that promotes their book in a subtle way.” Building a professional and respectful relationship with producers can lead to long-term opportunities and positive referrals within the industry.

5. Overlooking Podcasts. Authors should not just focus on local TV Talk Shows to promote their book, but podcasts are often overlooked as a great opportunity to reach deep into a target audience. Many podcasts have very dedicated listeners, especially in the entrepreneur niche, and they can reach a target audience with laser focus. They don’t have to have a huge audience to make an impact especially since so many use cross platforms like YouTube, Rumble, and more to broadcast their episodes.

By avoiding these five blunders and approaching producers with a thoughtful, audience-centered pitch, it’ll be a win-win for everyone involved and the success rate of securing interviews will dramatically increase.

Marianne Schwab has worked as a talk show producer in New York and Los Angeles and is currently the Executive Producer of CMP Media Cafe. She works with professionals, high level entrepreneurs, and book authors to help them fast track their success in becoming a recognized expert in the media. Through personalized media coaching and guidance, she helps clients navigate the intricate world of media appearances. She shares broadcast public relations tips on Instagram and has created an online training that shares her insider secrets to promoting a business on TV talk shows with details for the types of experts producers love to book as guests.

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Family & Parenting Lifestyle Services Technology U.S

Adult Real ID Reveals Four Vital Campus Safety Tips for Students Heading to College This Fall

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As students prepare to head off to college it can be exciting and stressful for both parents and kids. There are a lot of things to consider from dorm assignments to navigating the campus. In fact, one of the biggest concerns parents have as their child heads off to college revolve around safety since college comes with a new-found freedom for students who are meeting new friends and classmates. However, there is an unfortunate dangerous side with this new collegiate community since not everyone is who they say they are and it’s often discovered too late. 

Thomas Kopec, a Co-Founder for the smartphone app, Adult Real ID, understands the danger all too well, “My son’s friend, Taylor Behl, was just seventeen when she was starting a new life as a freshman at Virginia Commonwealth University and disappeared two weeks later. Taylor had met a 38-year-old photographer named Ben Fawley when she was visiting the campus and had no idea he had nefarious intentions. One night, she left her dormitory room at VCU, got into her car with Fawley, and she was never seen alive again. Her body was discovered over 75 miles away from campus one month later. This is just one reason why safety for students is personal for me and why I wanted to create an app like Adult Real ID.”

Kopec’s business partner is a former FBI agent, Jay Kanetkar, and the smartphone app is designed to keep users safe when meeting online connections and strangers. He says, “As an FBI agent, I saw first-hand the risk that online predators pose to both children and adults. That’s why I knew I had to do something to address the threat.”

Kopec and Kanetkar have some vital campus safety tips for students heading to college this fall.

1. Get to know neighbors in the dorm or in off-campus housing. Living alone or away from home for the first time can be overwhelming and becoming friendly with neighbors can create a sense of community and support while looking out for each other.

2. Share class schedules with roommates and parents. Students are encouraged to disclose their class timetables to roommates and parents so that they are able to detect anomalies or discrepancies, should they arise.

3. Stay aware of surroundings and avoid walking alone at night. Students should remain mindful of their environments, especially when they find themselves alone. It is crucial to avoid distractions including being absorbed in texting or talking on the phone when walking to and from the car, class, or coffee shop. Criminals often target people who appear distracted or confused. Also, whenever possible, travel with a friend or a group, especially after dark.

4. Communicate whereabouts to roommates and family. Students are advised to inform their roommates or trusted acquaintances of their intended destinations and anticipated return times—whether they are heading to the library, class, gym, or to meet up with dates or friends. By doing so, these acquaintances can remain aware of their schedules and respond if returns are delayed or if they need to check on their well-being.

“One of the advantages of Adult Real ID is that it allows users to add an event that includes who they are meeting and facilitates the incorporation of verified acquaintances who have successfully undergone a verification process,” according to Kanetkar. “Events can be monitored and tracked until the successful return from the event through the app’s Meeting Tracker. The goal of this feature is to prevent abductions or possible violence.” This approach fosters secure interactions by connecting with other validated users, thereby mitigating the risk of counterfeit profiles and deceptive relationships.

A number of college campuses have already added the app as a new layer of security for their students according to Kopec, “Several universities including Princeton, Texas A & M, and Rutgers have seen the value of Adult Real ID and have secured app subscriptions for every student returning to college this school year to help them stay safe on and off campus.”

Everyone concerned about safety when meeting strangers masquerading as ‘friends’ on the Internet or even in real life meetings needs a powerful tool that ensures their well-being. Adult Real ID sets a new standard for responsible online connections and users can get a subscription for as low as $3.00 per month. The app goes beyond identity verification by prioritizing user safety during face-to-face meetings, secure meeting arrangements, emergency assistance features, and fostering a safer digital landscape for everyone.

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Marianne Schwab, Former TV Talk Show Producer, Unveils Blueprint on How Entrepreneurs Can Stop Being the Best Kept Secret in Their Industry Using Public Relations

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In the ever-evolving landscape of business and entrepreneurship, standing out from the crowd is crucial for achieving success and credibility. Unfortunately, many professionals often find themselves struggling with being the best-kept secret in their industry and do not understand how to overcome it. One solution is harnessing the power of a public relations strategy that can be a game-changer for high-level entrepreneurs, book authors, and professionals when media visibility shines a light on their exceptional talents. 

Marianne Schwab, a former national network TV talk show producer understands this dilemma all too well. According to Marianne, “The problem with being the best-kept secret lies in the missed opportunities and untapped potential that could transform their careers and businesses if only the world knew about them. Despite holding invaluable solutions to pressing problems, they essentially remain hidden from potential clients, depriving the world of their much-needed expertise.” She has a five-point blueprint to break free from obscurity using the power of public relations.

1. Build a Robust Online Presence. In the digital age, having a robust online presence is non-negotiable for anyone seeking media exposure. From social media platforms to professional websites, experts must establish a consistent and compelling digital footprint. Sharing valuable industry insights and trends can showcase expertise and draw the attention of producers seeking knowledgeable guests.

2. Craft an Irresistible Story That Connects. Media producers are on the hunt for stories that captivate their audiences, and by presenting an authentic narrative, experts can establish an emotional connection with viewers. The first step to shedding the “best-kept secret” status is to craft an irresistible and compelling story. Marianne suggests, “It’s important that you focus on personal anecdotes and real-life examples that illustrate your journey and make the story memorable. These should be relevant and relatable stories that evoke emotions and can resonate deeply with audiences, fostering a genuine connection that goes beyond mere self-promotion. Knowing how to share your story in a way that captivates viewers and makes an imprint in their lives and is an invaluable tool that can help you break free from obscurity.”

3. Write Media Alerts that Grab Attention. Journalists and producers rarely come knocking on someone’s door for an interview and a one-size-fits-all approach does not work in the world of getting the attention of media decision makers. Crafting a winning pitch requires research to study the outlet’s previous interviews and audience demographics to tailor the pitch accordingly. Marianne Schwab recommends that, “This starts with crafting your expertise into a media hook or headline that sounds more like a tease for an upcoming TV segment than it does a boring press release headline. Once you have the hook, the one page media alert should align with that and give more details about your story without giving everything away. For example, if you’re an fashion stylist, your hook could be something like the three biggest mistakes women make when buying a bathing suit. You can list the mistakes, but the solutions are for when you get the media producer engaged. You might also share one visual example of the wrong bathing suit and pair that with the a photo of a dramatically more flattering option.”

4. Forge Relationships with Media Outlets. Building relationships is the lifeblood of public relations. The path to being discovered requires active outreach to media outlets and journalists. Marianne says, “Experts should start with local media since they’ll be more open to featuring a local business or expert and this is an excellent way to start getting visibility in your city. If you’ve never done a public relations outreach before, it can be a daunting task and you may chose to hire a publicist or agency to get started but be careful. Not all agencies will get you results so chose wisely. It breaks my heart when clients come to me after they’ve been burned and wasted budget that didn’t yield media exposure.”

5. Leverage Media Exposure. Credibility is the cornerstone of media success and leveraging features on reputable talk shows and in media outlets can bolster an expert’s reputation that instill trust in their brand or business. High-level entrepreneurs, book authors, and professionals should display media logos of where they’ve been featured on their website and social media platforms and also include videos of their past on-camera interviews. Marianne notes that, “Cultivating social proof through media appearances creates a snowball effect. As more interviews are secured, media outlets take notice, further amplifying an expert’s visibility and stature. Media coverage serves as a testament to your authority as an expert that will attract more opportunities, and even potential clients.”

By using this five-point blueprint, professionals and high level entrepreneurs can not only leave the shadows behind and break free from obscurity, but gain credibility that overpowers their competition.

Marianne Schwab has worked as a talk show producer in New York and Los Angeles and is currently the Executive Producer of CMP Media Cafe. She possesses a deep understanding of what the media looks for in expert interviews and works with professionals, high level entrepreneurs, and book authors to help them fast track their success. Through personalized media coaching and guidance, she helps clients refine their message, enhance their on-camera presence, and navigate the intricate world of media appearances. She shares broadcast public relations tips on Instagram and has created an online training that shares her insider secrets to promoting a business on TV talk shows with details for the types of experts producers love to book as guests.