The Author's Guide to Networking Without the Cringe

You wrote the book. You published the book. You might even have the courage to speak about the book. But walk into a room full of strangers and start conversations? That's where most authors draw the line.

In this week's episode of the Easy Peasy Books Podcast, we're tackling the topic that makes most authors break out in a cold sweat: networking. And I promise this conversation is going to give you a paradigm shift. Because networking doesn't have to feel awkward, forced, or like you're selling your soul at a happy hour. There's a better way. And my guest this week has spent nearly 15 years proving it.

Meet Debbie Wemyss

Debbie Wemyss is the founder of DW Consulting Solutions LLC and an independent LinkedIn specialist who has spent nearly 15 years coaching professionals and corporate teams on branding and marketing strategies on LinkedIn. A recognized Top 50 International LinkedIn Expert, Debbie has worked with clients in 21 countries and is a passionate advocate for the power of authentic networking.

Her brand new book, Networking From the Ground Up: Planting Seeds in a Digital Landscape, launches on March 27, 2026. It's the story of how conversations can change everything. After being let go at 57, Debbie leaned into the one thing that had always opened doors for her: connecting with people. That decision didn't just rebuild her career. It launched a business, a global client base, and a mission to show others that the next opportunity might be one genuine conversation away.

Why Planting Seeds Beats Hunting

Most people think of networking as predatory. You walk into an event, you scan the room for targets, you pitch your thing, and you hope somebody bites. Debbie sees it completely differently. She compares networking to gardening. You plant seeds through genuine conversations, nurture them with consistent engagement, and eventually watch opportunities bloom in ways you never expected. And if you think that sounds like it takes patience, Debbie has four trees on her patio that she grew from seed. Including a Hass avocado. So yes, she practices what she preaches.

🎬 Click play to watch a short video clip from the podcast

What We Talk About

In this episode, Debbie and I explore:

• Why networking is NOT the same as public speaking (and why it scares authors even more)
• The one mindset shift that takes all the pressure off when you walk into an event
• How asking questions is secretly the most powerful networking strategy an introvert can use
• Where to find networking opportunities you might be completely overlooking
• A brilliant airplane story that turned a casual conversation into a paid speaking gig
• Why the people who never become your clients might be your most valuable connections

Something to Think About

I'm wondering how many authors have a book sitting on Amazon right now, hoping the right people will somehow find it. Meanwhile, the person who could open doors for you, introduce you to their network, or invite you to speak at their next event might be standing right next to you at a chamber luncheon, sitting beside you on a flight, or waiting in line behind you at the post office.

The question is, are you going to open your book and put your headphones in? Or are you going to say hello?

🎧 Listen to the full podcast episode here:

👉 082: Networking Without the Cringe: From Stranger to Client with Debbie Wemyss

🎥 Prefer to watch the conversation? The full video interview is available on YouTube:

👉 Networking Without the Cringe: From Stranger to Client with Debbie Wemyss

About this Newsletter Author

Gillian Whitney is a Business Book Coach and Author Visibility Strategist who helps professionals turn their expertise into clear, compelling business books. A six-time author, she is also the host of the Easy Peasy Books Podcast, where she talks with authors about writing, publishing, and getting their books into the right hands.