Roberta Anderson

Interview With Author Roberta Anderson

Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
I’m a seasoned IT and cybersecurity professional with over 25 years of experience, including roles in the Department of Defense, government, biotech, and both public and private industries. As a military veteran and former Chief Information Security Officer (CISO), I’ve dedicated my career to protecting digital assets, ensuring data privacy, and educating individuals on secure technology practices. I hold multiple industry-leading certifications, including CISSP, CRISC, CDPSE, Security+, and Network+, as well as a Master’s degree in Cybersecurity and Information Assurance and a Bachelor’s in Cybercrime Investigation.

Beyond cybersecurity, I’m also a certified personal trainer and nutritionist. Having served in the military and worked in high-stress environments, I know firsthand how easy it is to neglect our well-being in the hustle and bustle of life. I’m passionate about helping others—especially women—find balance, prioritize their health, and thrive both personally and professionally.

As an author, my passion is making complex tech topics accessible to everyday people. I’ve written 1 book (first in a series), focusing on AI, cybersecurity, and digital safety, with my latest book, AI for Beginners in the Digital Age, designed to help readers understand AI, protect their privacy, and use AI safely in their daily lives. My goal is to empower individuals—whether professionals, parents, or non-tech users—to navigate the digital age confidently and securely while maintaining a well-balanced life.

What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
My latest book is AI for Beginners in the Digital Age: Easily Master Safe AI Practices, Build Foundational Knowledge, Protect Privacy, and Prepare for the Future.

What inspired me to write this book was seeing how quickly AI is integrating into our daily lives—often without people fully understanding its impact. With my background in cybersecurity, I’ve witnessed firsthand how emerging technologies can be both powerful and risky, especially when it comes to privacy and security. Many people, from parents to professionals, are unsure how to use AI safely or protect their data in an AI-driven world.

As a military veteran and someone who has worked in high-stress environments, I also know how overwhelming it can feel to keep up with new technologies. That’s why I wanted to create a book that simplifies AI, making it accessible to beginners, non-tech users, and anyone looking to enhance their digital security.

For parents especially, AI presents unique challenges and opportunities. From smart devices in the home to AI-driven learning tools, children are growing up in a world where AI is shaping their education, entertainment, and online experiences. This book helps parents understand how AI works, how to keep their family’s data safe, and how to guide their children in using AI responsibly.

This book isn’t just about understanding AI—it’s about learning how to use it responsibly, protect personal data, and prepare for the future without fear. My goal is to empower readers with practical knowledge so they can confidently embrace AI while safeguarding their privacy, security, and their families’ digital well-being.

Do you have any unusual writing habits?
I wouldn’t say my writing habits are unusual, but they are definitely structured! Coming from a background in cybersecurity, I approach writing much like I approach problem-solving—methodically and with a strong focus on clarity. I like to break down complex topics into digestible sections, ensuring that even non-tech readers can easily follow along.

One habit that might be a bit different is how I balance my writing with fitness. As a certified personal trainer and nutritionist, I believe movement fuels creativity. So, I often structure my writing sessions around workouts—whether it’s taking a walk to brainstorm ideas or lifting weights between chapters to reset my focus.

I also rely heavily on research and real-world examples. Because AI and cybersecurity are constantly evolving, I dedicate a lot of time to staying updated, testing tools myself, and simplifying those insights for my readers. My goal is to make my books not just informative, but also highly practical and engaging.

Lastly, I always write with my audience in mind. Whether it’s professionals looking to enhance their careers, parents trying to protect their families, or everyday users wanting to stay safe in the digital world, I make sure my writing is accessible, actionable, and empowering.

What authors, or books have influenced you?
I’ve been an avid reader my entire life, and I’ve been known to finish a book in a single day. What I love most are books that flow effortlessly and have a conversational tone—ones that make even complex topics feel engaging and accessible. That’s exactly the kind of book I set out to write.

When it comes to AI, cybersecurity, and technology, I’ve been influenced by thought leaders who can take complex ideas and make them understandable for everyone. I admire authors who prioritize clarity and practicality, making learning both informative and enjoyable.

Beyond tech, I also draw inspiration from books that focus on mindset, resilience, and personal growth—things I believe are just as important when navigating a fast-changing digital world. I wanted my book to not only educate but also empower readers to feel confident about AI and cybersecurity in their daily lives.

One thing I dislike is tech books overloaded with jargon, making it difficult for everyday readers to grasp key concepts. The last thing I wanted to do was write a book like that. My goal was to take AI and cybersecurity—two topics that can feel intimidating—and make them approachable, actionable, and empowering. I wanted my readers to feel like they were having a conversation with a trusted friend, not struggling through a dense textbook.

What are you working on now?
I’m really excited about what’s coming next! This book is just the start of The In the Digital Age series—a down-to-earth, no-jargon guide to navigating today’s fast-changing tech world. Whether you’re a parent trying to keep your family safe online, a professional wondering how AI will impact your job, or just someone who wants to stay informed without feeling overwhelmed, this series is for you.

It will have:

Simple, no-stress explanations – No confusing tech-speak, just real talk.
Practical, real-world tips – Things you can actually use at home, work, or school.
Confidence, not confusion – Learn how to protect your privacy, use AI wisely, and keep up with new tech.

Technology isn’t slowing down, but you don’t have to feel lost in the chaos. My goal is to make it easy for you to stay informed, secure, and ready for whatever comes next. Stay tuned—there’s so much more to come!

What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
There’s no one-size-fits-all approach, but I’ve found that a mix of strategic marketing, community engagement, and value-driven content works best. Here’s what I focus on:

✅ Amazon Optimization – Using the right keywords, categories, and a compelling book description to make sure my book gets discovered.

✅ Email List & Newsletter – Staying connected with my audience by sharing exclusive content, updates, and helpful insights.

✅ Social Media & Content Marketing – Posting valuable tips, behind-the-scenes content, and engaging discussions on platforms like LinkedIn, Facebook, and Instagram.

✅ Guest Podcasts & Interviews – Talking about my book, AI, and cybersecurity on relevant podcasts and blogs to reach new audiences.

✅ Book Launch Strategy – Using pre-orders, launch teams, and early reviews to generate buzz and build momentum.

At the end of the day, it’s all about building trust, providing value, and creating conversations around the topics I write about. The more I engage with my readers, the more my book naturally gains traction!

Do you have any advice for new authors?
If you’re just starting your writing journey, here are a few things I’ve learned along the way:

✅ Just Start Writing – Don’t overthink it. Perfection comes with editing, but you need a first draft to work with.

✅ Know Your Audience – Write with a clear picture of who you’re helping and how your book benefits them.

✅ Simplify, Don’t Overcomplicate – Whether you’re writing about AI, health, or personal growth, make it digestible. Readers appreciate clarity over complexity.

✅ Marketing Starts Before You Publish – Build an audience early through social media, email lists, and engaging with communities that care about your topic.

✅ Stay Consistent – Writing a book is a marathon, not a sprint. Set small, realistic goals and keep moving forward.

✅ Don’t Fear Self-Promotion – If you believe in your book, talk about it! Share your insights, go on podcasts, and engage with your readers.

What is the best advice you have ever heard?
One piece of advice that has always stuck with me is:

“Done is better than perfect.”

It’s easy to get caught up in overanalyzing, tweaking, and second-guessing every detail—whether it’s writing a book, launching a project, or stepping into something new. But perfectionism can become procrastination.

Instead of waiting until everything is flawless, take action, put your work out there, and improve as you go. Growth happens in the process, not just in the planning.

This advice has helped me, not only in writing, but also in business, fitness, and life in general. Progress beats perfection every time!

What are you reading now?
Truthfully, since I just finished a book launch, I haven’t had much time to sit down with a good book. Launching a book takes a lot of energy, and right now, my focus has been on engaging with readers and working on what’s next.

But when I do get some downtime, I’m looking forward to catching up on Onyx Storm! There’s nothing like getting lost in a great book after a big project.

What’s next for you as a writer?
I’m just getting started! This book is the first in the In the Digital Age series, where I’ll continue breaking down complex tech topics into simple, practical guides.

At the heart of everything I write is a passion for helping people feel confident and in control of their digital lives. I know how overwhelming technology can seem, and I want to make it easy, accessible, and practical—whether you’re a parent protecting your family online, a professional adapting to AI, or just someone trying to keep up with all the changes.

My goal is to make sure you feel empowered, not overwhelmed, by the digital world. More exciting topics are on the way—so stay tuned!

If you were going to be stranded on a desert island and allowed to take 3 or 4 books with you what books would you bring?
Honestly, if I were stranded on a desert island, I’d want a mix of survival, inspiration, and pure escapism. Here’s what I’d bring:

A Survival Guide – Something practical, like The SAS Survival Handbook, because let’s be real—I’d need to know how to find food, water, and build shelter!

A Classic That Never Gets Old – A book I could reread over and over, maybe something thought-provoking or beautifully written that would keep my mind engaged.

A Book for Pure Escapism – Probably a great fantasy or sci-fi novel to transport me somewhere completely different—because being stranded would already be too much reality!

A Notebook (If That Counts!) – I’d want to write down thoughts, ideas, and maybe even document my survival journey. Who knows, it could turn into my next book!

What about you? What books would you take?

Author Websites and Profiles

Roberta Anderson Amazon Profile

 

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