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In this engaging episode of 'State of the Nation,' Kevin, the host, welcomes guests Suze Solari and Arpit Mehta to discuss the importance of personal branding for authors. Suze Solari, a personal stylist and image consultant, is also the organizer of the Author Nation Industry Expo event. She explains her crucial role in helping people present their best selves, particularly authors who need to create a personal brand. She emphasizes the importance of the author's visual brand, stating that it is as crucial as the story they are telling. Suze believes that proper dressing, choosing the right colors, and developing a unique style aesthetic can significantly impact how an author's personal brand is perceived. She provides examples of authors who have successfully integrated their personal style into their brand, including Jonathan Yanez, Amanda Traylor, and Ernie Dempsey. Arpit Mehta, a visual artist and the headshot photographer for Author Nation, brings a unique perspective to the conversation. He shares his journey from starting a music blog to becoming a professional photographer. Arpit believes in capturing images filled with personality and purpose. He emphasizes the importance of understanding an author's purpose to create images that reflect their essence. Arpit shares his process of engaging with clients, asking probing questions to understand their motivation and purpose, which then informs the creative elements of their photoshoot. The episode delves into the nitty-gritty of personal branding, discussing how authors can effectively communicate their brand visually. Suze gives practical tips on how authors can prepare for their photoshoot, highlighting the importance of wearing the right clothes, choosing colors that complement their skin tone, and creating a style statement that aligns with their brand. She further shares resources for color analysis and encourages authors to find style icons that resonate with them. Arpit, on the other hand, advises authors on how to prepare for their headshot session. He stresses the importance of dressing appropriately, refreshing makeup, and ensuring they are well-rested before the session. He also shares some of the challenges he has faced with clients who are not adequately prepared for their session. The episode is filled with insightful advice and practical tips for authors looking to enhance their personal branding. It's a must-watch for authors who want to learn how to communicate their brand visually and create a lasting impression on their audience.