Tell us about yourself.:
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, as well as helping individuals achieve a healthy, balanced lifestyle. So far I’ve written 1 book, focusing on AI, cybersecurity, and digital safety. My latest book, AI for Beginners in the Digital Age, is 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.

Where did you grow up, and how did this influence your writing?:
I grew up as an Army brat, which meant moving all over and constantly adapting to new places, people, and experiences. That lifestyle taught me resilience, curiosity, and the ability to quickly assess and navigate new situations—all of which have shaped both my career and my writing.

Living in different environments and seeing the world through so many perspectives made me keenly aware of how technology connects and protects us—but also how it can be misused.

That’s why I write the way I do—breaking down complex topics like AI and cybersecurity into clear, practical insights that anyone can use. I know firsthand how overwhelming technology can feel, and I want to empower people to take control of their digital lives with confidence.

Beyond tech, I also understand how easy it is to put yourself last when life gets busy—which is why I’m equally passionate about helping people find balance in health, fitness, and overall well-being. Whether it’s staying secure online or prioritizing self-care, my goal is to help others thrive in every aspect of life.

Do you have any unusual writing habits?
I don’t know if it’s unusual, but I do a lot of my best thinking when I’m working out. There’s something about moving—whether it’s lifting weights, going for a spin, or even just stretching—that helps me clear my mind and work through ideas.

When I hit a writing roadblock or need to organize my thoughts, I step away from the screen and get active. It’s like my brain switches into problem-solving mode, and suddenly, connections start forming. I’ve mapped out entire book chapters mid-workout and even solved tricky sections somewhere between sets of squats.

I think it comes down to letting my subconscious do the work—instead of forcing an idea, I give it space to breathe. And since I write about technology, cybersecurity, and AI—topics that can be heavy and complex—staying active keeps me sharp, focused, and balanced.

Plus, as someone who’s been in high-stress roles, I know how easy it is to get lost in the hustle and neglect yourself. Writing and fitness go hand in hand for me. They’re both about discipline, consistency, and pushing through challenges—and honestly, I wouldn’t have it any other way.

What authors have influenced you?
I grew up as an Army brat, which meant moving all over and constantly adapting to new places, people, and experiences. That lifestyle taught me resilience, curiosity, and the ability to quickly assess and navigate new situations—all of which have shaped both my career and my writing.

Living in different environments and seeing the world through so many perspectives made me keenly aware of how technology connects and protects us—but also how it can be misused.

That’s why I write the way I do—breaking down complex topics like AI and cybersecurity into clear, practical insights that anyone can use. I know firsthand how overwhelming technology can feel, and I want to empower people to take control of their digital lives with confidence.

Beyond tech, I also understand how easy it is to put yourself last when life gets busy—which is why I’m equally passionate about helping people find balance in health, fitness, and overall well-being. Whether it’s staying secure online or prioritizing self-care, my goal is to help others thrive in every aspect of life.

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.

Most importantly, enjoy the process! Writing a book is an incredible achievement, and your knowledge has the power to help and inspire others.

What is the best advice you have ever been given?
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 your biggest weakness?
My biggest weakness? Perfectionism—without a doubt. I can get caught up in tweaking and refining things long past the point of ‘good enough.’ Whether it’s writing, designing, or even planning a workout routine, I always want things to be the best they can be. While this pushes me to produce high-quality work, it can also slow me down. I’ve had to learn that sometimes ‘done’ is better than ‘perfect’—especially in writing and publishing. At some point, you have to trust the work and put it out into the world.

What is your favorite book of all time?
I’ve read so many books over the years, but the ones that stick with me are the ones that make me think differently about the world—whether it’s a gripping story, a powerful lesson, or a fresh perspective on something I thought I already knew.

When you’re not writing, how do you like to spend your time?
When I’m not writing, you’ll usually find me working out or spending quality time with my family. Fitness has always been a huge part of my life—it’s my time to think, recharge, and stay strong both mentally and physically. And, of course, family time is everything. Whether it’s relaxing together, going on adventures, or just catching up, I make it a priority to be present and enjoy those moments.

Do you remember the first story you ever read, and the impact it had on you?
I don’t remember the very first story I ever read, but what had the biggest impact on me was my high school English class. My teacher brought literature to life in a way that stuck with me—taking us on field trips to the Poe Museum, diving deep into Greek mythology, and pushing us to explore the deeper meanings behind the novels we read. I loved the prose, the symbolism, and the experience of truly analyzing a story rather than just reading it. That class sparked my appreciation for storytelling and the power of words.

What has inspired you and your writing style?
What inspires me the most is being able to help people and make a difference. Whether it’s through my writing, my work in cybersecurity, or my background in fitness and nutrition, I love empowering others with knowledge and practical tools they can use in their daily lives. Seeing someone gain confidence, take control of their digital security, or find balance in their health—that’s what keeps me going. Knowing that what I do can positively impact someone’s life is the greatest motivation.

What are you working on now?
I’m excited to share that this book is just the beginning! The In the Digital Age series is designed to help you navigate the fast-changing world of technology with confidence. Each book will break down complex topics like AI, internet security, and digital literacy in a way that’s easy to understand and apply to everyday life.

Here’s what you can expect:

✅ 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.
✅ A strong focus on ethics and safety – Understand the risks and make informed decisions.
✅ More exciting topics on the way!

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

What is your favorite method for promoting your work?
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!

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.

How well do you work under pressure?
Having a background in the military, cybersecurity, and high-stress industries, working under pressure is second nature to me. Whether it's managing cybersecurity threats, meeting tight deadlines, or handling unexpected challenges, I’ve learned to stay focused, think strategically, and adapt quickly. I actually thrive in high-pressure situations—it pushes me to be more creative, decisive, and solution-oriented. That being said, I also believe in balance. I know the importance of stepping back, recharging, and maintaining a healthy mindset so I can perform at my best.

How do you decide what tone to use with a particular piece of writing?
I believe the tone of my writing should always match my audience, but at the core, I want my books to feel conversational—like we're sitting down for a chat over coffee. Tech, AI, and cybersecurity can feel overwhelming, so I focus on breaking things down in a way that's easy to understand and engaging. I want my readers to feel like they’re learning from a friend rather than reading a textbook. Whether I’m writing for parents, professionals, or beginners, my goal is to make complex topics accessible, practical, and even enjoyable.

If you could share one thing with your fans, what would that be?
If I could share one thing with my fans, it would be this: You don’t have to be a tech expert to take control of your digital world. Whether it’s AI, cybersecurity, or staying safe online, small steps can make a big difference. My goal is to make learning about technology simple, practical, and stress-free—so you can use it to enhance your life, not overwhelm it. Stay curious, stay informed, and never be afraid to ask questions. I’m here to help!

Roberta Anderson’s Author Websites and Profiles
Amazon Profile

Roberta Anderson’s Social Media Links
LinkedIn